Chapters Chapter one “The Awaking”
Chapter one “The Awaking”
Discord raised a talon and the Elements of Harmony came flying from the necks of the six wielders that had only a year earlier defeated him.
“Oh no you don't, not this time. This time we play a new game,” Discord said as the Elements vanished from in front of him.
“The Elements, Discord what have you done with them,” Twilight demanded, despair and anger already filling her eyes.
“Calm down my little pony, in time all questions will be answered. Our last game was certainly fun, however it seemed a little unfair. So this time I will make you work for your precious Elements.”
“Work for them? What do you have in mind,” Twilight asked nervously.
“A small challenge for each of you, individually this time, if one of you fails you won't be able to use the Elements against me.”
“Let's do this,” Rainbow Dash shouted, eager to meet a challenge.
“Then we will begin,” Discord said as he snapped his fingers. There was a flash and each of the six wielders were teleported to a different location for their own challenge.
Twilight was now in Canterlot staring at Princess Clestia.
“Oh Princess,” She said and raced to her side.
“Twilight where is Discord, and the Elements?”
“Princess Discord took the Elements and...”
“TWILIGHT SPARKLE YOU LET DISCORD TAKE THE ELEMENTS OF HARMONY?”
Twilight slowly backed away from the Princess, as she sheepishly muttered “I'm sorry I...”
In the meantime Rarity was busy dodging diamonds being hurled at her by her sister.
Rainbow Dash was chasing down a replica of herself.
Fluttershy was fighting (best description of it) an extremely mean version of herself backed by Iron Will.
No one in their right mind could explain what Pinkie Pie was doing for her challenge.
Finally, Applejack was at home fighting her older brother.
“Macintosh whada ya think yer doin',” Applejack demanded as her brother charged at her. Applejack barely dodged her brother as he charged. Big Mac not expecting the dodge ran face first into a nearby tree.
Slightly dazed Big Mac, silent as ever, turned to face Applejack once more.
“I don't wana hurt you, but I'll do it if I haf ta.”
Applejack braced herself as her brother charged her once more. She tried jumping out of the way, but tripped and took her brothers charge full force. She lay barely conscious looking up at the still enraged face of her brother. She blinked once as he stepped closer to her, and then all went black.
Applejack opened her eyes to see her five best friends and the Two princess of Equestria worriedly staring down at her.
“AJ are you OK,” Dash asked seeing Applejack's eyes slowly open.
“I think so I, ahhhh,” Applejack yelled as she tried to stand. As a sharp pain went through her ribs.
“Oh are you OK,” Fluttershy asked looking incredibly worried.
“Don't you worry about me, we need to go stop Discord.”
Twilight smiled a little before saying “you're a little late Applejack, the Princesses here managed to take care of it.”
“Yeah they were AMAZING you should've seen them AJ,” Pinkie Pie began, but then was silenced as Celestia took a few steps forward.
“You are quite lucky Applejack,” Celestia said seemingly relieved, but still concerned. “I was unsure if the Elements could heal you. When we defeated Discord, we went looking for you, and found you laying pratically dead in your weeping brother's arms.”
“Is Macintosh OK? He was pretty angry under Discord's spell.”
“He's fine, he's had a week to calm down,” Twilight said.
“A WEEK,” Applejack yelled almost springing to her feet, but was quickly reminded of why she wasn't standing to begin with.
“Ow, that really hurts,” Applejack said looking to her side in agony.
“Is there anywhere else that hurts,” Celestia asked examining her side closely.
“Well I reckon my head is hurting somethin' fierce too.”
“Hmm, well it appears that there is nothing wrong, you may just be feeling some residual pain from the healing process. Luna and I were in here every day using the elements to try and heal you the best we could. Your skull and ribs were all broken or fractured, not to mention the internal damage. You are quite lucky to be alive actually.”
“Thank you kindly, Princess,” Applejack said nodding to Celestia and Luna in turn.
“OK everypony, let's let Applejack rest and get her bearings,” Celestia said as she turned and began to walk out of the room.
Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash both looked like they were about to argue, but then turned to wave goodbye to Applejack with sad eyes.
“Don't you two worry, I'll be out and about in no time, just wait and see.”
Slightly encouraged they followed the rest out the door.
When the door shut Applejack began to look around for the first time. It seemed that they had brought her to her own room at Sweet Apple Acres. She was in bed, she wondered if she had been here for the entire week. She looked outside and saw Big Mac hard at work.
“What does that foal think he's doing? He knows he can't do both my work and his.”
She attempted to get up again and cringed and fell back down.
“S'pose I can't help him much like this though.”
She sighed and fell back into bed. She hated feeling useless, she could feel how much muscle she had lost over the week she had been lying out cold. She would have to work hard for three or four weeks.
A little depressed at the thought she let her head sink back into her pillow, which felt very comfortable. She realized just how sore her entire body, her neck included, was. She laid there for a moment enjoying her pillow and then fell asleep once more.
She woke up what felt like minutes later, with Applebloom by her side.
“Sis, you're awake again,” Applebloom yelled as she charged at Applejack for a hug.
“Ohhhh, that hurts lil sis,” Applejack said as her little sister hugged her around the waist.
“Sorry,” Applebloom said as she let go. “Are you not feeling any better since the last time you woke up?”
Applejack stooped for a second to think. Then slowly tried to stand up.
“Careful,” Applebloom said in a panic and rushed to her sisters side.
“Now hold on for a minute Bloom, I gotta get standin sometime, no better time than now.”
Reluctantly Applebloom took a step back, but stayed close enough to lend support if something went wrong.
Applejack slowly stood, cringed a little, then stood up tall.
“There, see? Much better than the other day.”
Applebloom's eyes dropped an went to the side, a look Applejack knew well.
“Applebloom, what aren't you tellin me?”
“Weeeelllll, you seeee, it's like this, you last woke up four days ago.”
“Consarn it, you've got to be kidding me, I was out another four days?”
“Sorry Applejack.”
“Taint your fault Bloom, I reckon it's mine fer letin myself go back to sleep.”
“You seem awake this time.”
Applejack stopped to think about how she felt this time. Her muscles seemed a little more at ease, and her side and head didn't hurt nearly as much as they had before, but were still considerably painful. Then Applejack noticed something she hadn't noticed in a long time. She was absolutely starving.
“Hey Bloom think we can get get some grub? I'm starvin.”
“I'll go get you some sis,” Applebloom said as she quickly blocked the path to the door.
“Applebloom I can get some myself.”
“You'll have to talk to the doc about that one.”
“Ugh,” Applejack grunted and walked back to her bed.
“I wana see this doctor to give him a piece of my mind.”
“I'll send HER right up.”
Chapter Two “The Road To Recovery”
Chapter Two “The Road To Recovery”
“Twilight,” Applebloom called as she bounded down the stairs.
“Yes Applebloom,” Twilight said as she raised her head from the book she had brought from home.
“Sis is awake, and she wants some food, said she's starvin, but wanted to come and get it herself, I told her I'd send you up to talk to her.”
“Alright, you go get her some food while I go up and check to see how she's doing.”
At that Twilight began up the stairs to check on her patient.
“OK Applejack, how are you doing,” she asked as she came into Applejack's room.
“A might bit better than last time I woke up, but hungrier than you'd believe.”
“Well, while Applebloom gets you some food, I need to ask you a few questions. First, how much pain would you say you are in?”
“Uh, well, it feels like I cracked my ribs, and I feel like there is a spike drivin into my head.”
“How do your muscles feel, do they feel tense, or sore in any way?”
“The first time I woke up, but now I just feel weak.”
“That will happen when you lay in bed for almost ten days straight.”
“Don't remind me,” Applejack groaned, thinking about how out of shape she was, and how much work she would need to put into getting back in the swing of things.
“It's going to be OK, I think you won't go back to sleep any more, you seem to have stabilized. In fact, the brain scans I've been doing on you predicted you would wake up tomorrow, but looks like you're a little early.”
“It's not that Twi, it's ma muscles. It's going to take a few weeks to get back in shape.”
“We'll work on some physical therapy later, don't worry Applejack, you'll be good as new in a week or two.”
Before Applejack had time to get annoyed at the estimate, Applebloom came in with a tray full of food.
“Oh good I'm starvin,” Applejack said forgetting all about her worries and turning her full concentration on the food.
In a matter of minutes she cleared the entire plate. Twilight and Applebloom stared wide eyed and open mouthed.
“That was good, can I have some more,” Applejack asked looking at Twilight.
After a moment Applebloom nudged Twilight. Realizing she was being asked, Twilight shook her head for a second and said, “yes of course, in fact,” she turned to Applebloom and said, “keep her well fed, it will speed up her recovery.”
“Right,” Applebloom said, and ran out the door and down the stairs to fetch her sister more food.
“Now,“ Twilight said turning back to Applejack, “About your physical therapy.”
The next morning Rainbow Dash was at Sweet Apple Acres to supervise the physical recovery of Applejack.
“OK Applejack, think your ready for a mild jog with me?”
“I don't know Rainbow, I'm feelin awfully weak still.”
“It'll be easy, I walk with you and we won't go any faster than you can handle. It's just like when I hurt my wing, and Twilight says your already looking pretty well, so you should have passed the worst, all you gotta do now is suck it up and get to moving!”
“Alright, alright.”
“Lets see how fast you can go, then set some goals from there.“ Rainbow Dash looked around for a moment then pointed and said, “OK lets see how fast you can get to that tree.”
“On three, ready?”
“Ready,” Applejack said as she hunkered down a bit, ready to give it her all, whatever that currently was.
“One, two,” Applejack tensed ready to go on the next count.
“THREE,” Rainbow Dash yelled and Applejack sprinted off at a incredible pace.
Applejack made it to the tree in near to no time and stopped and looked back at Rainbow Dash who stared dumbfounded.
“Well don't just hang there lookin stupid, how'd I do?”
After a moment more of staring Rainbow Dash slowly asked, “are you really sure you need my help, because that was pretty fast.”
“What, are you kiddin me? I feel so weak you gotta be pullin my leg.”
“No really AJ that was just about as fast as you have ever been, how do you feel? Do you feel tired at all?”
Applejack stopped and thought for a second, “No not really, and I gave it my all.”
“I noticed, alright lets see how far you can do that, test your endurance.”
“I don't know Rainbow, you sure I'm up to this?”
“I'll carry you back if you get that tired.”
“OK, so just start running?”
“Yeah, start heading that way,” Rainbow Dash motioned the direction of Ponyville, “I'll follow you from the sky, just stop if you feel like your getting tired, then we will walk back.“
“Alright,” Applejack said as she took off at the same speed.
Rainbow Dash followed her from the sky as promised, but all the way to Ponyville. Applejack never seemed to slow down. Once there Rainbow Dash flew in and landed next to Applejack.
“Wow AJ, you just went full sprint all the way to Ponyville, how did you manage that? Are you sure you feel weak.”
“Well I feel a little better after that, but I'm absolutely starving, can we grab some grub before we head on back home?”
“Eat whatever you like, you deserve it after that, heck I'll buy.”
“Thank you kindly Rainbow, seems I forgot to bring some money anyhow.”
They made there way to the market, where Rainbow Dash quickly began regretting her decision to buy, as Applejack ate everything in sight. After thirty minutes of near constant eating Applejack seemed satisfied.
“Well that was delicious.”
“I know I said eat anything you want, but how about next time you not eat everything you want.”
“What do you mean?”
“AJ, you do realize you just ate over two hundred bits worth of food.”
“WHAT?”
“Yeah that's kinda how I felt.”
“I'm sorry Rainbow, I'll make it up to you, I'll pay you back when we get back to Sweet Apple Acres.”
“Tell you what, it's on me if you can beat me in a foot race back.”
“You're crazy, I couldn’t if I wanted to being like this.”
“You sprinted all the way from Sweet Apple Acres to Ponyville without being winded,“ Rainbow Dash said in a slightly annoyed tone.
“Well I s'pose your right, but I still don't think I can beat ya back home.”
“What happened to the pony who challenged me to the Iron Pony competition?”
“Rainbow, YOU challenged ME, remember?”
“Oh yeah, but YOU accepted.”
Applejack sighed, “so you won't fly?”
“I promise.”
“OK, OK, lets get this over with.”
“On your mark, get set, GO!”
Rainbow Dash and Applejack took off, they went neck and neck until half way when Rainbow Dash started getting tired and began to fall behind. When they arrived back at Sweet Apple Acres, Rainbow Dash was a full five seconds behind Applejack and came panting, then fell over.
“How the hay are you moving that fast AJ, I just don't get it.”
“Rainbow stop pulling my leg, I know you ain’t outa breath.”
“I'm serious AJ, you were FASTER than you were the last time we raced.”
“I mean it Rainbow, I can feel how weak I am, you can stop humoring me.”
“I'm not, I'm being serious here, as a matter of fact I want to talk to Twilight, she needs to hear this.”
Applejack sighed, still believing Rainbow Dash was simply trying to motivate her into doing more in her recovery, which she didn't really need, she was fully capable of working out on her own, and didn't want anyone's pity.
“I'll see you tomorrow Rainbow, I'm getting tired.”
“Alright AJ, I'll go tell Twilight how good your doing, and I'll see you bright and early for some more running.”
Applejack slowly made her way upstairs to her bed thinking about the strange day. She couldn't help but shake the feeling that maybe Rainbow Dash was telling the truth, she didn't get out of breath at all, despite running as fast as she could. She decided to sleep on it a while.
She sat in her bed for hours trying to go to sleep, but she couldn't help but play the day over and over again in her mind. Finally she got hungry again and got up to get her something to eat.
As she finished a very large breakfast she noticed the sun rising.
“Dang it, I've been up all night, there's no way I can survive Rainbow's training, not after being up all night, and not the way she thinks I can move already.”
After another hour both Rainbow Dash and Twilight showed up at her front door.
“Hey guys, how are things.”
“Dash tells me that you are doing exceptional on the physical recovery, is that true?”
“Well, I do seem to be a bit quicker than I thought I'd be, but I think Rainbow mighta gone and oversold me a bit.”
“Quit being modest AJ, you're as quick as can be.”
“Well how about I watch you run for a bit myself and be the judge?”
“I don't know Twilight, I've been up all night, and I'm not sure I'm up to the same workout she put me through yesterday.”
“Please you didn't break a sweat,“ Rainbow Dash said almost angrily, “I got more of a workout than you did.”
“Hold on Dash, if she doesn't feel like it don't push her, however I would really like to see you run for just a bit if you would be up to it Applejack.”
“I reckon a quick jog couldn’t hurt.”
The girls all went outside to watch Applejack run once more. Again Rainbow had her run to the tree nearby. This time Applejack went about twice the speed she had the day before and ran into the tree.
“Applejack are you all right,” Twilight asked as both her and Rainbow Dash came running to Applejack's aid.
“I'm fine, I just got a little ahead of myself that's all.”
“Are you sure you're OK? You hit that tree pretty fast,” Dash said both concerned and trying to hold back enthusiasm for the speed she had just witnessed.
“Actually Applejack, Rainbow Dash is right, you were moving really fast, I mean look,” Twilight motioned to the tree Applejack had just ran into, and apparently caused a huge dent with a lot of splinters to form.
“I did that,” Applejack asked dumb founded.
“Let's go back inside, I want to examine you after a crash like that,” Twilight said as she helped Applejack to her feet.
“I'm tellin ya I feel fine.”
“Trust me AJ, doctors won't leave you alone until they're sure, just give her what she wants and if you're fine she'll let you go.”
“OK OK, lets go in.”
Chapter Three “A Startling Revelation”
Chapter Three “A Startling Revelation”
Once inside Twilight brought out a rather large machine and began setting it up while the other two watched.
“So what is this,” Rainbow Dash asked studying the strange device while hovering midair.
“This is a magical imaging device that allows us to get a visible readout of the bone density of a pony, in this case of Applejack here.”
“I shoulda known not to ask.”
Twilight sighed and said, “It lets us see through her skin to check on her bones.”
“Ohhhhh,” said both Applejack and Rainbow Dash at the same time.
Once set up Twilight pointed the device at Applejack's head and said. “Now try to stand still Applejack, or else this won't work very well.”
“OK, I'm ready,” Applejack said with a slight bit of nervousness creeping into her voice.
The machine began to hum for a moment and on the other side a black and white translucent picture began to form.
Twilight studied the picture as it formed and once it was said, “let's see here, oh my.”
“What,” Applejack said, a slight amount of panic rising in her voice.
“Well to be honest, I'm not quite sure what it is, you appear to have no damage to the front of your skull as I would have predicted, however you seem to have a small extra mass forming on the center of your skull.”
“Well what is that s'posed to mean?”
“Sorry AJ, I don't really know, I'm afraid will have to take you to a osteopathologist, and show her this.”
Applejack and Rainbow Dash stared at Twilight for a few moments before Twilight realized she had once again used words they didn't understand. She made an angry huffing sound and then said in a slightly raised and annoyed voice, “it's a doctor that specializes in bones.”
“Ohhhhh,” said both Applejack and Rainbow Dash at the same time again.
Loosing the look of annoyance Twilight turned back to face the bone picture again, “I haven't seen, or even heard of something like this, I hope Dr. Patella will know what this is, and what to do about it.”
“Twi, ah don't see any reason to do nothin, it taint hurtin nothin is it?”
“It could be the cause of your headaches.”
“Oh yeah,” Applejack said remembering the headache she has had since she woke up.
“Go ahead and go lay down for a bit Applejack, I'll send for Dr. Patella, she will be here by tomorrow, then hopefully we will get to the bottom of this.”
“OK, but um, first can I get some more food, I'm getting hungry again.”
Twilight was about to open her mouth when Rainbow Dash got in front of her and said, “Twilight whatever you do, DON'T offer to buy, she will eat EVERYTHING.”
Twilight and Applejack shot Rainbow Dash a dirty look. “What? I'm down two hundred bits, can you really blame me,” Rainbow Dash said as the other two continued to stare at her, “fine well don't say I didn't warn you egg head,” at that Rainbow Dash flew out the front door, heading to her home in the clouds.
“Come on Applejack,” Twilight said, “lets go to Ponyville, and I AM buying.”
Applejack smiled a bit, “thank ya, Twilight.”
The next day Dr. Patella made it, slightly behind schedule, to Sweet Apple Acres.
“OK, let me make one thing clear,” Dr. Patella said as she walked in the door. She stopped to stare a moment at Twilight. “Oh hey Twilight, am I working on YOU today.”
“No doctor, although I'm glad to see you, how are you today.”
“Pretty good, although if your friend here didn't have Celestia send me a personal request for a house call out in the middle of nowhere, you can guarantee I wouldn't be here. But, I'd be willing to bet my doctorate that you had something to do with that, Miss Element of Magic, and student of the Princess.”
Applejack was preparing to get offended on the part of her friend, but saw Twilight smile a bit at the remark. “I don't know if that means you would get a second doctorate or just a a tenure on your current one.”
The green coated, white maned Pegasus, laughed a little, “still quick on the comebacks, eh Twilight? Alright, well, I'll drop the high and mighty doctor act for a friend of one of my favorite students.”
“So you two are friends,” Applejack asked slowly catching up.
“Yes, I studied under Dr. Patella here for a while in Canterlot. She was one of the first few pegasi to get a doctorate.”
Dr. Patella smiled, and turned to show her cutie mark which appeared to be a skeleton. “I got this back in flight school, I worked the sick ward like nopony's business. No one understood bone structure like me. I went to Canterlot shortly after that to study medicine. I'm actually the fifth ever Pegasus to get a doctorate.”
“And the only one to practice medicine after getting said degree,” Twilight reminded her.
“Well there's that, but I seem to have picked up the snooty attitude of the stuffy Unicorn professors, Twilight here is one of the only Unicorns I met there that wasn't too stuck up for her own good, and sometimes I get carried away with the high and mighty doctor act, but enough chat, Twilight what seems to be the problem with our patient here?”
“Well,” Twilight said as she levitated the picture she had made with her machine the previous day. “It seems as if she has a small bone mass growing on her mid upper portion of her cranium,” Twilight pointed to the small, but obvious bump on the picture of Applejacks skull.
“I see, that is interesting, and you say she is a normal Earth Pony, from a normal Earth Pony family?”
“Yes doctor, but why do you ask?”
“Oh come now Twilight, think outside the box for a moment, doesn't the location of this mass look familiar to you?”
“Well yes it looks like, ohhhhh, no, no, no, no, doctor that's just not possible, the Apple family has been nothing but Earth Ponys for generations.”
“What in tarnation are you two going on about,” Applejack demanded, feeling as if she was being insulted somehow.
“Well let's not jump to any conclusions just yet,” Dr. Patella said as she reached intro her bag to pull out a small device. “Let me take a full body scan, and check everything out before we make any assumptions.”
“Doctor, what is that,” Twilight asked transfixed on the small device.
“My apologies Twilight, you left Canterlot just before I got to unveil my newest version of the bone imaging device. This little puppy can do everything the old large models could, and doesn't need a a Unicorn to power it.”
“That's incredible doctor, how in Equestria did you manage that,” Twilight said incredibly excited and transfixed on the newest version of the bone imaging device.
Dr. Patella smiled a bit, “Later Twilight, for now let me get started on this, it will take me a few minutes since I want a full body scan.”
“OK,” Twilight said, a little disappointed, and sat down to watch the procedure.
Three minutes later, after Dr. Patella was done hovering around Applejack with the strange device, it was time to look at the results.
“Well this is very curious,” Dr. Patella said, looking at the small readout on the device.
Unable to get a good view Twilight was trying to look over her shoulder to see, “What is it doctor, I can't see.”
“Well, based on the patients family history, what I'm seeing here doesn't make much since.”
“Your not seriously saying that... that' just not possible!”
“What in the hay are you two going on about already,” Applejack almost yelled feeling extremely frustrated.
“Well you see, brace yourself Applejack, this is going to be hard to swallow, but it seems that you are growing a horn.”
“WHAT,” Applejack nearly fell over in shock. “You can't be serious doc, like Twilight told ya, the Apple family's been Earth Ponys for generations, we go back farther than Granny Smith can remember.”
“And based on that information Twilight and myself were very skeptical at first, but,” Dr. Patella leaned over and showed the device to Twilight and pointed to something on the screen. “Twilight based on what you see right here, what would you make of this mass.”
Twilight studied the screen for a moment. “By Celestia she's right, this mass is filled with the same semi-porous substance that Unicorns horns are filled with. Applejack you are a Unicorn.”
“Precisely,” Dr. Patella gave a broad smile. “You seem to be one of the rare cases of a very late blooming Unicorn. You are probably the tenth ever documented case.”
“That's just...” Applejack trailed off thinking of what this could mean.
“Don't worry Applejack, you will be fine,” Twilight said holding back some enthusiasm at another one of her friends suddenly being a Unicorn. “I'll help you understand all about magic,” Twilight gave a bit of a squeal and said, “oh this will be so much fun!”
“Calm yourself Twilight,” Dr. Patella turned to face Applejack, “there is till every chance she won't be able to perform magic, only half of the late blooming Unicorns documented were actually able to perform magic after their horns developed.”
“How can someone just become a Unicorn,” Applejack said in a skeptical voice.
“I understand why you're skeptical here, but believe me it can happen. In fact while studying for my doctorate I had the privilege of seeing one of the previous nine documented cases get studied.”
“Studied,” Applejack got very nervous at the sound of that word.
Twilight chimed in to calm Applejack down, “don't worry Applejack, we are just going to observe your horn coming in, and if you can use magic, then the degree of difficulty or ease that you have in performing spells, we won't do anything invasive,” she glanced at Dr. Patella, “Right doctor?”
Noticeably disappointed the doctor said, “of course not, you will be free to do as you please, all we ask you let us know of the growth of the horn and your progress of learning and implementing magic. Oh and if you would be so kind, donating your body to science so that after you...”
Twilight gave the doctor a hard nudge to the side. “What the doctor meant was, I'll help you develop your magic, and I'll send the results to her, right doctor?”
Once again noticeably disappointed the doctor sighed, “of course, I'll be looking forward to your reports, Twilight.”
“I promise to keep you informed,” Twilight said, relieved to see the doctor not pushing the donating to science point.
“Wait one moment, don't I get a say in any of this,” Applejack asked, getting angry at the finality that both of them were speaking with.
“Well Applejack,” Twilight began, “there isn't anything we can do to stop the horn from growing in, after it has fully grown I'm sure we could have it surgically removed if that is really what you want, but if it would bother you that much to have me report on it in the mean time I don't have to.”
At that Dr. Patella began to open her mouth to protest, but was stopped by Twilight's next words.
“However if you won't let me follow it's growth, I can't really help you use, or for that matter control your magic. It can be tough to control newborn Unicorns when they get magic bursts, it will probably be even more difficult for you to control, considering your age and how fast it seems to be growing in.”
Applejack stopped to consider this for a moment, but plenty long enough to drive Dr. Patella into a frenzy waiting for her answer.
“All right,” Applejack finally answered hesitatingly. “But just till I can get the darn thing removed.”
“Yes,” Dr. Patella shouted then remembered her company, “I mean, I'll be looking forward to your reports Twilight, in the mean time I'll go show these images to all my colleagues, they'll be soooo jealous.
Before Applejack had time to protest Dr. Patella had flown out the door on a path straight to Canterlot.
Chapter Four “Magic Training Begins”
Chapter Four “Magic Training Begins”
“OK Applejack, now concentrate on the apple, try and pick it up.”
“I am Twilight, it just ain't workin.”
“Remember, focus from the part of your skull were the horn is, feel your horn there and let the magic come from it.”
“I can feel the dumb thing alright,” Applejack said as she rubbed the small, but now noticeable bump on her forehead.
“You just don't want it enough, you need to want to lift the apple.”
Rarity, who had been watching and helping for the last three days (the entire time that had passed since Dr. Patella's visit) decided to step in.
“Twilight dear your absolutely right, you need to make her WANT to use her magic. You need something she actually cares about, like...” Rarity paused to think, “Idea!”
She turned to face Twilight, “Twilight be a dear and get Rainbow Dash would you.”
“OK,” Twilight said unsure of were this was going.
She teleported off to get Rainbow Dash, while Applejack was left eying the now smiling Rarity. “What are you up to,” Applejack asked suspicious of the broad and devious smile or Rarity's face.
“Oh you'll see,” Rarity said almost sing song.
A minute later Twilight and Rainbow Dash teleported in front them, Rainbow Dash looking a bit sick. “I'll never get used to that.”
“It grows on you,” Twilight said, then turned to Rarity, “Now what is this plan of yours Rarity?”
Rarity faced Rainbow Dash, “Dash come here for a moment please so I can have a word.”
“OK...” Rainbow Dash said and flew down to Rarity's side.
Rarity leaned in and began whispering to Rainbow Dash. After a moment Rainbow Dash's eyes grew wide, and she got the same mischievous smile that Rarity still had from before.
“You sure, Rarity, I mean,” Rainbow stopped and laughed, “AJ might get a little angry.”
“Go ahead, it will help her in the long run.”
Twilight looked curious but apprehensive, and Applejack began taking a few steps back.
“I don't like this one bit, one of you better tell me what y'all are plannin or get the hay outa here.”
“Whoa whoa whoa AJ, calm down, it's not that bad,” Rainbow Dash said as she gently flew towards Applejack.
Applejack didn't ease up but stopped walking backwards, “well then why don't either of ya tell me what y'all are plannin.”
Rainbow Dash, not very far away from Applejack now, said, “oh nothing really just THIS,” Rainbow yelled the word this as she made a very quick pass right over Applejack's head and then hovered a little ways up behind her.
“Now what was the point of...” Applejack stopped as she looked up and saw Rainbow Dash holding her hat. “Rainbow, get down her and give me back ma hat,” Applejack demanded.
“You'll have to take that up with one of the other Unicorns down there,” Rainbow Dash said as she waved Applejack's hat around in the air.
“Rarity tell Rainbow she better get down here this instant and gimme back ma hat.”
“I'm sorry darling, but you love that hat, and it's the only thing I could think of to get you to use your magic, well that was relatively safe.”
Applejack turned with pleading eyes to Twilight. “Twilight you don't think this is a good idea do ya?”
Twilight looked at Applejack, then at the hat in the air being held by Rainbow Dash, “well it's not my usual teaching method, but honestly Rarity is right, you need something you hold dear in danger if you are this resistant to using magic.”
“But Twilight, didn't you and the doc say that there was a chance I wouldn't even get any magic? What if I ain't got any?”
Rarity cut in, “well you better hope you do darling, I told Rainbow there to not let you have your hat until you take it from her with magic, and if you didn't to just fly away with it.”
“That's right AJ, you better get to doin some magic or I think I might just have me a new hat,” Rainbow Dash said as she slipped the stetson on her head.
Applejack got a serious expression, “all right, fine,” she said, lowering her body a bit and closing her eyes. She sat there for a moment in deep concentration and after a moment more, opened one eye to see if anything happened.
“It's just no use Twi, I ain't got no magic.”
“Well then AJ, thank you for the new hat,” Rainbow Dash said while mockingly tipping the hat to her.
“Rainbow get down here and gimme back my dern hat.”
“Make me,” Rainbow Dash said and took off in the direction of Ponyville, slowly to prevent the hat from flying off.
“Rainbow,” Applejack yelled as she took off after her in pursuit.
Twilight looked after them hopelessly and turned to Rarity, “still think this was a good idea?”
Rarity looked after them, and still confident said, “give Applejack a minute, she will get there soon enough.”
“I suppose,” Twilight said, once again looking out at the quickly fading Rainbow Dash and Applejack.
Applejack was keeping up with Rainbow Dash easily due to the slow pace she was flying, “Rainbow get down here.”
“I already told you AJ you gotta get this hat off my head with magic.”
“I ain't got no magic Dash just drop my hat so I can get on home, I'm already getting hungry again.”
“Well the eggheads think you got magic but if you don't really think you do,” Rainbow Dash flew over a small pond and got dead center, “you did say you wanted me to DROP your hat right?”
“Rainbow I'm warning you,” Applejack said stating to get angry, “don't you dare drop my hat in that pond.”
Rainbow Dash got an evil smile and took off the hat and held it as low as she could from her current position, about ten feet above the center of the pond. “Come on AJ it's just a little water.”
“Ah mean it, don't do it.”
“Oops,” Rainbow Dash said a bit sarcastically, as she purposelessly dropped Applejack's hat.
“No,” Applejack said as her hat fell towards the pond.
Just before it hit her hat glowed softly orange, and hovered just above the ponds surface.
“Huh,” both Applejack and Rainbow Dash said at the same time.
After siting there for a few seconds the hat fell, but Rainbow Dash swooped down and grabbed it. She flew over and placed the hat on Applejacks head, “I think you earned your hat back, congratulations you're officially a Unicorn,” Rainbow Dash said smiling as Applejack stared at the pond for a while.
Rainbow Dash hovered there for a moment letting Applejack take in the last few minutes. Then she said, “OK come on AJ, your hungry, remember?”
Shaking her head and coming out of her trance Applejack said, “oh yeah I'm starved, let's get back.”
They both took off in the direction of Applejack's house, when they got there Applejack went straight inside to eat, while Rainbow stayed outside to talk to Rarity and Twilight about what had happened.
“So she actually levitated her hat,” Twilight asked curious and regretting not following them when they left.
“Yeah, it was only for a second, but I'm sure it was hovering, and the orange glow was unmistakeable, that was definitely Unicorn magic, and I know neither one of you could have kept up with us, and there wasn't any one else around, so... yeah.”
Rarity looking a bit vindicated turned to Twilight with a wide smile, “you see darling, all she needed was a little motivation.”
“Well it worked, so I guess I can't complain, but I would think just using magic for the first time would be motivation enough. I mean I remember the first time I did magic on purpose, I was so excited. I just thought AJ would be as excited as I was.”
Rarity walked up and put her hoof on Twilight’s back, “you know a lot about magic dear, but you still have a thing or two to learn about other ponies. You can't just expect them to be motivated the same way you were. Let me handle getting Applejack interested in magic, then you can handle actually teaching it to her, OK?”
“Yeah OK,” Twilight said a little disappointed, but understanding what Rarity meant.
The next day the two Unicorns were ready to take things up a notch in training their up and rising Unicorn student.
“OK Applejack dear, now that we established that you do indeed have magic, we can show you how to use it practically,” Rarity said as she and Twilight approached Applejack.
“Alrighty, but what da ya have in mind?”
“Well I could show you how to...” Twilight began but was cut off by Rarity giving her a bit of a warning look.
“We thought we would let you decide dear. What do you think would be useful for you in your daily life.”
“Well,” Applejack paused for a moment, “I s'pose it would be helpful if you could show me how you picked all them apple's when you helped me last season.”
“Oh that is just easy levitation with multiple objects, all you need to do is focus on each object as a type, in this case apples and...” Twilight was once again cut off by a look from Rarity.
“Listen Applejack, before you can do something like that you need to learn simple levitation, so to start you need to pick up an apple, that sound fun?”
“I reckon it could be some fun.”
At that Rarity turned and telepathically picked an apple from the nearest tree, and set it down between her and Applejack, “now take as much time as you need dear, the better you are at this, the more apples you will be able to pick at once later on.”
“Alright,” Applejack said and laid down in front of the apple and shut her eyes and began focusing on it. After a few moments the apple began to glow, and slowly lifted into the air.
“You got it Applejack,” Twilight yelled in excitement.
“Wha,” Applejack said, her eyes bolting wide open, causing her concentration to break and the apple to fall.
“That was pretty good dear, you got it a little quicker than I expected, but this time try with your eyes open, you will need to see the apples your picking won't you?”
“OK here I go.”
Applejack stared hard at the apple and once more it slowly lifted in the air surrounded by the soft orange glow. “Ye haw,” Applejack shouted as the apple continued to float, “ya see that girls, I'm doin it!”
Twilight and Rarity both smiled broadly at their friend’s enthusiasm. “Good job Applejack,” said Twilight.
“Yes, well done, once again much quicker than expected, are you ready to move on?”
After a moment of smiling, Applejack let the apple slowly sink to the ground, and nodded with a smile still on her face.
“Alright then, now you need something a bit more difficult, moving an apple is one thing, picking it is another, you have to actually pull it from the tree. So do you think you would be up to pulling an apple from a tree dear?”
Applejack looked at the nearest tree and spotted a big apple from it.
“OK, I'ma get that there apple.”
Seeing her enthusiasm, Twilight couldn't help but cheer her on, “go Applejack, you can do it.”
Rarity, catching the contagious enthusiasm, joined in with Twilight in a chant, “Applejack, Applejack, Applejack!”
Staring at the apple for a moment it began to glow, then a few seconds later it slowly turned as if being pulled towards Applejack, then started to move towards her. After just a few moments the apple came off and flew towards her. Stopping just before her, Applejack took a large bite out of the apple, and they all three cheered.
The next day they began to try multiple apples.
“Do you think your ready to try multiple apples,” Rarity asked, fully knowing that Applejack was already dead set on doing just that today.
“I'm ready, let's do this.”
Twilight finally had her shot at chiming in again, “remember AJ, think about the apples as a group, don't concentrate on them individually, or the tree as a whole, otherwise you'll end up either sending them in different directions, or trying to pull the whole tree down.”
“When your ready,” Rarity said.
Applejack stared at the tree she had just yesterday picked a single apple from. Almost instantly all the apples began to glow, excitedly Applejack tuned her head up, as if she was using a lasso to manipulate the apples, and they all went flying in the air.
“Uh oh, INCOMING,” Applejack shouted, just before the volley of apples began to rain down on the Unicorns.
After about five seconds the apple rain had stopped, Twilight and Rarity had shielded themselves, Applejack on the other hand had been pummeled by the falling apples.
“Applejack all you alright?”
Applejack chuckled and stood up, “oh believe you me, I've been hit by a lot worse than that.”
They all three began laughing at the situation. After a minute or two Rarity said, “well you certainty catch on quickly, now we just have to teach you some control.”
Twilight was staring at Applejack's forehead, “hey Applejack, your horn seems to be coming in rather quickly.
“Really,” Applejack asked as she attempted to look at her forehead to no avail.
“Here darling, take this,” Rarity said as she levitated over a mirror.
Applejack began reaching out to take it when Rarity pulled it back, “Not like that, use your magic, you can use the practice.
“Right,” Applejack said and began to levitate the mirror herself. She took the mirror and examined her horn closely. Indeed it had grown a lot since just yesterday. It was a lot more than just a bump on her head. It was nearly an inch long now.
“I may need to recalculate how long before it reaches full length if that keeps up,” Twilight said, examining the rapidly growing horn.
“Well for now do you want to go eat something, or give that one more go dear,” Rarity asked Applejack.
“Well why not both,” Applejack said and turned her attention to the apples all around. She picked them all up and slowly moved them over then into a nearby basket. She then promptly went over and began eating from the basket.
Twilight looked at the scene for a moment, and laughed and said, “Applejack what are you doing, you can't eat all those apples.”
Applejack taking this as a challenge said, “forget you, I can eat all these apples,” and began to eat them all at a blinding pace. When she was done she sat there for a minute then fell on her back.
“Ah got a stomach ache,” Applejack said, almost smiling seeing how funny the situation was.
Half smiling Twilight said, “well you proved me wrong, I guess you CAN eat all those apples.”
They all three laughed, and Rarity and Twilight helped their friend up to her room for some sleep.
Chapter Five “More Revelations”
Chapter Five “More Revelations”
Twilight ran as fast as she could to Sweet Apple Acres after reading a letter that had just arrived from Dr. Patella. When she finally arrived she was completely out of breath and could hardly speak.
“Applejack... you... Dr. Patella said... letter,” Twilight levitated the letter out of her bag and put it in front of Applejack.
Applejack already getting the hang of using magic held the letter in front of her magically as she read.
Dear Twilight,
I have exciting news! I was showing off the images I had taken of your friend Applejack, and everyone was absolutely fascinated, but then one of my prized students pointed something out that I hadn't noticed. You see I was so excited about the prospect of a late blooming Unicorn I did not stop to review the rest of the images. Well to cut to the chase the student in question pointed out a small little bump on each side of your friend slightly behind her front legs. Upon close examination I discovered that these bumps on the image were in fact joints forming! Your friend appears to be developing wings as well as a horn. What this means I can't be entirely sure, but I think Celestia needs to be informed as soon as possible. I know you and the Princess are close, so I thought it would be best if you brought her this interesting news.
Yours truly
This is the find of the century, I'll be famous!
Upon finishing the letter, Applejack reached up and felt her sides. Sure enough the place that had been hurting for the first few days of her recovery had small bumps under her skin.
“What in the hay is happening to me Twilight?”
“I don't know yet Applejack, let's go talk to Celestia, I'm sure she will know more than I do.”
Twilight walked over and teleported herself and Applejack to the train station. “Two tickets to Canterlot please.”
“Twilight, why didn't you just teleport us there?”
“I'm fairly strong AJ, but not quite that strong, Canterlot is a long way away, besides, I wouldn't want to drop in on the Princess unannounced. I have sent word that we will be arriving shortly, so she will be expecting us.”
“Oh,” Applejack said, still a little shell shocked from this recent development.
The train ride was long and boring, and Applejack was very distant most of the way. She was just getting used to the idea of being a Unicorn when suddenly this happened. She didn't even know what to call herself. Would she just be a Unicorn AND a Pegasus, or was there a word for that? “Hey Twilight,” Applejack asked timidly.
“Yes Applejack,” Twilight asked, relieved to even here her speak.
“What do you call ponys like Celestia? Ah mean being a Unicorn and a Pegasus like that?”
Twilight paused for a second. That was the first time the comparison had even crossed her mind. Now that she thought about it Applejack would have wings and a horn just like the two Princesses.
Seeing Twilight pause for so long made Applejack believe there really wasn't a word for it, “it's OK Twilight, if there taint a word for it ah reckon it doesn't matter.”
“Oh no,” Twilight said snapping out of the trance she was in, “there is, it's called an Alicorn, they are very rare, I believe Princess Luna and Princess Celestia are the only two, well except for Cadence.”
“Do you think I'm gonna be the fourth?”
“I'm not sure AJ, I'm not sure...”
The rest of the train ride was totally silent from then on. Applejack was deep in thought about her future, and what these changes meant for her, while Twilight was deep in thought over how or why these change were occurring, and what they could mean for her friend.
When they finally arrived at Canterlot Princess Celestia and several royal guards were waiting for them. “How are you Applejack,” Celestia asked, knowing that something had to be wrong for them to come all the way from Ponyville to see her.
“Well I don't rightly know, something weird's goin on, and I... ah hay, Twilight explain it for me.”
Twilight looked up at the Princess and began in a rush, “you see Princess as you know recently Dr. Patella came to check on Applejack after I discovered the small mass on her skull, which she quickly diagnosed as the signs of a late blooming Unicorn. As you can see the horn has been developing quickly and her magic is coming along just as fast. Today Dr. Patella sent me a letter saying that upon review of the full body image, it appeared that Applejack was also growing Pegasus wings.”
Twilight finished breathless. Princess Celestia turned her gaze to the nervous ex-Earth Pony. Celestia appeared deep in thought and quite concerned about this turn of events. “Come, you shall stay in the castle while I talk with my sister about this. In the meantime I will send for Dr. Patella to do a follow-up scan. I want to make sure that we are certain that she is also growing wings.”
Celestia turned and began walking back to the castle, the other two followed closely behind. Celestia walked them to the room that, not even a year earlier Rarity had stayed in while visiting Canterlot.
Celestia turned to face them after opening the door, “please stay inside and wait for Dr. Patella, as for now I want everything to be done as quickly as possible. If you need anything I will have a guard standing outside, he will get you any food, or anything else you need. I should be back with Luna later, just after sunset, she will be awake then. Tell Dr. Patella I wish to speak with her, and that she too is not to leave after performing another scan.”
“Yes Princess,” Twilight said a little worried by Celestia's unusually hurried tone.
Celestia walked off and the guard stood in her place, he saluted and said in a loud tone, “I will be here to serve your needs mams.”
“Thank you sir,” Twilight said then slowly shut the door. “I'm a little worried Applejack, I've never seen Celestia that worried, not since the threat on Canterlot at my brother's wedding.”
“YOU'RE WORRIED,” Applejack said bordering irate, “I'm the one whose changing into who knows what, and I'm the one that the Princess is getting all worried about.”
Twilight took a step back, “I'm sorry Applejack I didn't mean it like that, I'm worried for you too.”
“I'm sorry Twi, I'm awfully high-strung from this entire mess, and I aint thinkin straight.”
“I understand AJ, how about you get some sleep, I'll wake you up when Dr. Patella gets here.”
“That sounds great, but how bout you have that guard bring some food, I'm starting to get hungry.”
Twilight chuckled a little, “OK AJ, I'll make sure it's waiting for you when you wake up.”
Applejack went to bed as Twilight slipped out the door to talk to the guard about getting some food. Applejack watched through the door as Twilight talked to the guard. She realized just how glad she was to have friends such as her's during this crisis.
Chapter Six “Reassessing The Situation”
Chapter Six “Reassessing The Situation”
About three hours after Applejack had fallen asleep her food arrived.
“Applejack, wake up, your foods here,” Twilight said gently as she tried to slowly shake Applejack awake.
“Oh, good I'ma starvin,” Applejack said as she dove into to the food, waking up almost instantly.
After ten minutes Applejack was nearly finished with her food when Dr. Patella arrived. “How are you Applejack,” Dr. Patella asked, greeting who was quickly becoming her favorite patient.
“Pretty good doc, I'ma bit worried over all this, but Twi here's been keeping me company, and I think I've calmed down a bit.”
“Well lets see what we can find out with another scan. We need to make sure that you are actually growing wings before we get too far ahead of ourselves on this one.”
Once again she pulled out the small device from her bag and began to fly around Applejack to get the image, this time focusing on the regions on her sides where the small joints seemed to be forming.
After she finished she took a long look at the new results, and got a wide smile, “yes this is fairly conclusive, you are most definitely showing signs of growing wings, they appear to be rather large too, just based on the angle the joints seem to be forming.
Twilight dared to venture what was on everyone’s mind, “you mean about the size of Celestia's or Luna's?”
“Perhaps, but it is difficult to say exactly how big they will be, we will have to compare once they are fully grown.”
Just then Celestia and Luna walked in the door. “Greetings Twilight Sparkle,” Luna said just shy of her royal speaking voice and rushed to give her a hug.
“Hi Princess Luna,” Twilight said warmly, but caught a little off guard, “how have you been.”
“Very well, thank thee for asking, but enough pleasantries, to the matter at hand,” Luna said and turned toward Applejack.
“Yes, how are you Applejack,” Celestia asked warmly, but somehow more reserved than her normal self.
“Fairly well Princess, but may I ask what all this is about?”
“One moment Applejack,” Celestia turned towards Dr. Patella, “Dr. Patella, please divulge the results of your test.”
“Of course princess,” Dr. Patella said and rushed to grab the imaging device from her bag, “the imaging results are quite conclusive, our friend Applejack here is definitely growing wing joints, and as you predicted they seem a considerable deal larger than normal wings.”
“As I thought,” Celestia said, looking at Applejack, “it seems we have much to discuss. Dr. Patella, please take your leave, this may take a while, and I know how terribly busy you've been lately.”
Dr. Patella stared for a moment wondering what the princess could mean, then she realized that it was a hint to leave, “of course princess, feel free to call anytime you need me.” At that, she hastily left.
Once the doctor had left Celestia turned to her sister, “I'm not sure what to do dear sister, this is most unusual.”
“We know dear sister, it seems we have made a grave mistake.”
“I'm sorry but what are you talking about,” Twilight asked.
“My faithful student, I'm afraid my sister and I have done something terrible. Let me explain. As you know, me and my sister are the only two alicorns,” Celestia saw the curious look Twilight gave, “you wonder about Cadence, forgive me , I never told you. Cadence was born a Unicorn, but she always wanted wings, so she sought out the most brilliant and talented Unicorn to ask for real working wings. When she came to Canterlot and asked the doctors here of what they could do, one took it as a personal challenge and tried his best to make her look like me and my sister. Of course her body is not as large as ours, and her magic, while strong, is not nearly as strong as ours.”
Seeing Twilight satisfied, Celestia continued with her story, “my sister and I were born a little over two thousand years ago. For the longest time we wondered if another alicorn would ever appear, but lost hope after merely seven hundred years. We assumed we would be the only ones. Living so much longer than normal ponys, not to mention our appearance and our abilities, it wasn't long before we were hailed as royalty. Our magic was far stronger than any Unicorns had ever been, and our wings carried us far faster than any Pegasus had ever flown. We even cast a powerful spell that has held over the land for the past twelve centuries, that prevented weather from forming naturally, allowing the pegasi to easily manipulate the weather, unlike before when they had to battle the naturally occurring weather. We used the Elements to defeat Discord, and then eventually I used them on my sister,” she turned and gave an apologetic head bow to her sister, who in turn did the same. “The point is however, that we had never known of any kind other than our own intimately. So I'm afraid that while attempting to heal dear Applejack, we may have caused her to become as us.”
Twilight and Applejack stared for a moment until Applejack finally spoke, “so you're saying that I'm becoming an alicorn like the both of you?”
Both princesses nodded their head solemnly.
Twilight could resist asking any longer, “well what is the problem, it seems to me like it's a good thing, now Applejack gets to fly and use magic.”
Celestia addressed the question in an almost harsh tone, “yes but she will also live as long as us, do you know what it's like watching generation after generation of people you grow to love, grow old and die?”
Luna walked up and placed her hoof on Celstia's back, “sister please, you are tired, let us speak with them while you go and get your rest.”
Celestia merely nodded and made her way out of the room.
Once she was gone Applejack began the round of questioning, “Princess was she saying that I will be immortal like you?”
Luna gave a small frown, “we're afraid we are not able to answer that question young one, you see since we are the only ones, and we have lived thus far, we are not able to say if our life span is limited, or if it is infinite.”
“Will my magic be as strong as yours?”
“To be sure it will be stronger than most, how strong is also hard to say. We must wait to see as you develop along.”
“Will I grow to be tall like you?”
“Once again it remains to be seen, however if we were the betting sort, we would bet yes.”
Just then Twilight noticed that Applejack was indeed already getting taller. She marveled at how fast the changes were happening, and assumed that would explain Applejack's excessive hunger lately.
Applejack was still taking it all in. When Luna saw that there would be no more questions she began speaking, “we and our sister must speak at length about what is to be done. This is a most unusual situation, and some time will be needed in planning what to do.”
Applejack sat up in realizing what she was being told, “you mean to say I can't go home?”
Luna smiled warmly, “no young one, we are sure sister will be kind enough to let you stay at your own home while we debate on what to do.”
A little relieved Applejack sat back down on the bed.
Luna walked over and set down next to her and said in a much quieter tone then her usual, “the burden of the long life you will live is a tough one, but having others to live it out with makes it tolerable. While my sister and I were separated, we both went a little mad, but now we have each other once more, and if you are to join us in what we can only fathom to be eternity,” she paused and hugged Applejack, “we hereby welcome you as a dear friend.”
Applejack smiled at Luna, “thank you kindly Princess.”
“Now,” Luna said going back to her usual tone, “you two should get some sleep, and in the morning we shall send someone to tell you you are allowed to leave.”
At that, Luna left, leaving Twilight and Applejack alone together with the huge news that they had both received.
“What do ya think about all this Twi?”
“Well at first I was happy for you, but hearing Celestia talk, it sounds like long life may not be all that its cracked up to be.”
“I hear ya, I ain't never seen Celestia talk like that.”
“Neither have I, and it worries me, but all we can do now is sleep and let the princesses talk about what to do.”
“What do ya think they're gonna do Twilight?”
“I'm not sure AJ, I'm really not sure.”
Chapter Eight “Flight Training Begins”
Chapter Eight “Flight Training Begins”
Merely three days had passed since the party and Rainbow Dash was already confident of Applejack's wing's ability.
“OK AJ, I think you're ready to soar,” Rainbow Dash said after watching Applejack launch herself ten times higher than she had when they had first begun doing the jump training.
“Ah don't know Rainbow, you sure?”
“It'll be easy trust me,” Rainbow Dash said as she walked towards Applejack. “Just move you're wings like this,” Rainbow Dash moved her wings in a semi-circular fashion as if flying, but didn't put enough force to lift off.
“Like this,” Applejack asked, then flapped her wings similarly to when she was jumping, which led her to vault forward and land on her face.
Chuckling, Rainbow Dash helped Applejack up, “not quite, you need to think about direction from now on, you're not just going up, you're going up and forward, or up and back in some cases, you need to change the direction you are flapping your wings.”
“You ain't said anything about that till now, how am I s'posed to do that?”
Rainbow Dash turned perpendicular to Applejack to show her wings to her and began moving them in the circular motion, “it's like rotating you're arm, as if you were bowling with you're wing, except you go up not down.”
Applejack stared for a moment at what Rainbow Dash was doing, and then began trying it herself. At first she pulled her wings straight back, then forward, then she pulled them slightly down, slightly below what would be needed for gliding then slightly above. She then began to make small circles in the air, and gradually got bigger, but still did not have the full range of motion that Rainbow Dash had with her wings.
Rainbow Dash smiled when she saw Applejack was beginning to get the concept, “good, now try to get a running start and fly up and see if you can stay in the air for a bit.”
“OK I think ah'm ready,” Applejack said as she braced herself for a sprint. She sprang forward in full charge, which at this point had become a force to be reckoned with on it's own, and after about two seconds sprang into the air and began furiously beating her wings. She made it off the ground and stayed airborne for several feet before falling to the ground.
“OK, you almost had it,” Rainbow Dash said as she flew to meet the grounded Applejack.
“Why couldn't ah stay in the air?”
“You weren't using enough control, you have to beat your wings in time, or else you will lose most of your momentum in the air and crash.”
“You know Dash, you're startin to sound a bit like Twilight with this flyin stuff.”
Rainbow Dash looked a little offended at the statement, “and whada you mean by that,” she asked launching herself backwards and into the air.
“Ah calm down Rainbow, I just mean you sure do know a lot about flying.”
Looking a little bit relieved at not being called an egg head, Rainbow Dash settled to the ground, “oh, well of course, it's what I'm good at.”
“So I need ta pace myself?”
“Well yeah, at first, then once you've built up some speed and altitude you can really go all out, but when you get there you'll need better form.”
“Form?”
Rainbow Dash sighed, “right now, the way your flying, it wastes a lot of energy, and you'll wear yourself out in seconds, and won't be able to go all that fast. You could say the harder you try the less you'll actually get done.”
“Well how do I fix it?”
Rainbow Dash looked slightly irritated and nervous at the same time, “honestly it's pretty hard to learn, it's something most pegasi will pick up early on, I'm not sure how to teach it to you.”
Applejack thought for a moment, “well can't you just show me how to move my wings more 'effectively' like you did with basic flight?”
Rainbow Dash considered it for a moment, “well not really, you need to be in the air to realy move your wings the way I need to move them, and that kinda is half the problem.”
Applejack smiled slightly at Rainbow Dash's remark, “well if that's our only problem ah think ah got it covered.”
Rainbow Dash looked thoroughly confused, “huh?”
Smiling even more broadly, Applejack's horn began to glow, and then her entire body began to glow, she lifted about an inch off the ground and looked down at Rainbow Dash, “will this about do it.”
Stunned for a second Rainbow Dash took a moment to respond, “ya know, I almost forgot you could do that.”
They both laughed for a moment then went to work. Rainbow Dash began explaining the intricacies of wing movement to Applejack, while repositioning her body and wings. Rainbow Dash even took the time to explain wind resistance, and how proper positioning of both wings and body could increase speed dramatically.
“So AJ, you think your ready for some serious flying now?”
Applejack had been paying close attention during the last twenty minutes, and felt pretty confident she understood what to do, “ah'm ready!”
“Go!”
Applejack ran about five feet forward and jumped off the ground and with a few flaps of her wings began to soar. After ten feet of flying she was quickly approaching a nearby tree, she yelped slightly and gave a large and powerful flap of her wings and shot over the tree. She soared for a moment just above the treetops before Rainbow Dash caught up with her, “that was amazing, now how fast do you think you can go,” on the last word Rainbow Dash shot off going what she believed to be a taxing pace for a new flier. After a few seconds Applejack shot past Rainbow Dash with little effort at all. Stunned for a second, Rainbow Dash got an excited look on her face, “oh it's on!”
They began picking up speed staying neck and neck. After going for a minute, both of the racers having been slowly picking up speed to slightly out match the others speed, Applejack seemed to have reached her limit, “Dash ah can't go any faster than this,” Applejack called ahead to Rainbow Dash sounding disappointed in herself.
Rainbow Dash spotted a small clearing near the outskirts of Ponyville and touched down there. A few seconds later Applejack came crashing to the ground sending dust flying everywhere, Rainbow Dash seeing the impact, came running towards the crash site, “AJ are you OK,” she asked worriedly.
Applejack stood up looking barely fazed by what should have been a near fatal crash. “Rainbow ain't you figured out by now that stuff don't hurt me like it does normal ponies any more?”
Rainbow Dash looked stunned at Applejack for a second then began laughing slightly, “I guess I really should have by now huh?”
“Any way, why can't I go that fast Dash, I was really pushing myself there at the end.”
Remembering the unbelievable speed that she had just been going to out pace Applejack, Rainbow Dash snapped back to reality, “what are you talking about,” she asked almost angrily, but pride disallowed her from being vehement, “you were going way faster then ninety percent of ponies I know. I had to push a little to keep up, I had know idea you would be that fast right off the bat like that.”
Applejack looked skeptical for a moment, and then began to remember on all the other things she had done as if they were something she had done her whole life, “musta been that lesson you gave me bout how to reduce drag.”
Rainbow Dash smiled, “maybe I should stop showing you my secrets before you get to be as fast as I am.”
“Maybe.”
The next day, after Rainbow Dash had told Twilight about all of the previous day's events, Twilight came to talk to Applejack, “Applejack, Rainbow told me you've been doing amazingly on your flight training.”
“You could say I've been doin well,” Applejack said, mustering as much humbleness as her excitement and pride over her recent accomplishments would allow.
“Well I've been reading up on the aerodynamics of Pegasus flight, and the theory behind flight, and I came up with a few ideas.”
“Ideas,” Applejack asked cautiously and skeptically.
“Yes, you see the number one thing that keeps anyone from moving at higher velocities is the friction exerted on them by the air.”
“OK,” Applejack said, knowing that eventually Twilight would explain what she was saying in a way she could understand.
“So I was thinking that you could use your magic to reduce your own friction, or theoretically eliminate it.”
Up to this point Rainbow Dash had been sitting listening to the conversation, but something in Twilight's statement got her attention, “now hold on a minute, if she gets rid of her friction, then her wings won't have enough lift, she'd lose at least half of her wings ability to move herself in the first place.”
Twilight stopped to consider what Rainbow Dash was saying, “what if she did it while she was mid-flight, that way she could glide on the air currents, and enjoy the reduced friction.”
“That's great and all, but why the hay would that matter, it doesn't really get her any faster, and wasn't that the point?”
Twilight was looking irritated that her theory had been so easily picked apart, “well... she could use it to get more distance without getting tired!”
Rainbow Dash didn't let up, “have you seen her lately? She has more endurance than anyone I have ever seen, she doesn't need to reduce her energy usage.”
“What if she's going on a really long flight?”
“Like what around the world?”
Applejack had been thinking about all that Rainbow Dash had talked to her about, and the proposal that Twilight was putting forward, and came up with an idea, “well why don't ah just push the air around me, that way ah won't get drag, and can get the lift off it?”
Rainbow Dash's eyes lit up, “yeah it would be like you were drafting all the time, that could work.”
Twilight still not to happy about her idea being shot down so quickly merely mumbled, “yeah I suppose that could work.”
All three went outside to test the new theory. Applejack readied herself, and shot off. After flying for thirty feet, she began to cast the spell she had been working on in her head since Twilight had started arguing with Rainbow Dash. She could feel herself beginning to move quicker, when suddenly Rainbow Dash flew next to her.
“Just how fast do you think you can push that,” Rainbow Dash asked, and shot forward.
Applejack's eyes narrowed and she began to pick up tremendous speed. She caught up with Rainbow Dash in a matter of seconds, but seeing Applejack gaining on her, Rainbow Dash started to accelerate at a faster pace. In a little less than ten seconds they both did a sonic rainboom, Applejack's colors being more heavily favoring orange and yellow. Stunned at having performed the sonic rainboom, they both stopped and hovered for a moment starring at one another.
“That was... fun,” Applejack said putting a little emphasis and sounding happy on the word 'fun.'
Rainbow Dash looked a little worried, “OK Applejack, we need to talk.”
They both made there way back to Sweet Apple Acres, a considerable deal more slowly than they had left it and when they touched down Rainbow Dash began speaking in a very stern tone.
“OK listen AJ, this is important. You are to NEVER fly that fast again.”
Twilight and Applejack both looked at Rainbow Dash with a dumbfounded look. Applejack then asked slowly and unsure of herself, “but Rainbow why?”
Still looking extremely serious Rainbow Dash said, “the sonic rainboom may appear beautiful, but you have no idea what mayhem it will cause, it does some weird and unexpected things, and anything too close to the actual boom will get flattened. If we weren't flying so high someone would have gotten hurt.”
Twilight remembered how much her magic had freaked out when the first sonic rainboom Rainbow Dash ever performed went passed her, “yea I remember when I was a filly, the rainboom caused me to go into some sort of magic overload.”
Applejack still looked confused, “but you did one at Twi's brother's wedding, why didn't anything freaky happen there?”
“Me and Celestia made sure I was high enough that any immediate effects wouldn't be a serious problem, and that guards all over Equestria were on alert that one was going to be performed.”
Applejack starred at Rainbow Dash for a long time, “alright Rainbow, I see your point,” she said heavyhearted.
Lightening up dramatically Rainbow Dash attempted to curve the mood, “don't worry AJ, you can do one at special events and such, you may end up needing to do one in an emergency, heck next time I'm asked to do one, I may ask you to help, that double sonic rainboom was so awesome!”
Applejack lightened up as well, “sounds like fun.”
Twilight looked a little concerned, “I think I better write a letter to Celestia, I'm sure she will want to know about this.”
Rainbow Dash looked at Twilight skeptically, “Twilight are you serious? Celestia can't miss the world's first double sonic rainboom, everyone in Equestria is going to see, or feel, that thing.”
“I know that, but I think she needs to be told that Applejack and you are the ones responsible, and how AJ actually did it, you know with the air manipulation and your flight training.”
Applejack seemed to get nervous when Twilight said 'responsible,' “Twilight you don't think this'll put me on the princess' bad side do ya?”
Twilight being previously unaware of the way she made her soon to be letter sound, realized how nervous she had made Applejack, “Applejack don't be silly, I just thought Celestia would want to know how your progressing, both magically and in you flying.”
Rainbow Dash smiled, “well I'd say you definitely shown you've got talent AJ.”
Applejack was still not very confident that Celestia would not look at the rainboom as a problem, but sounding relieved by her friends' words nonetheless, “I s'pose she wouldn't be too angry, this being an accident and all.”
Rainbow Dash looked at her, “just try and keep your speed a little slower from now on K?”
“OK,” Applejack said, and they all shared a good laugh.
Chapter Nine: “Judgment Day”
Chapter Nine: “Judgment Day”
The next day Twilight once again came running to Sweet Apple Acres with news, “Applejack, Celestia wants to see you, her and Luna have made their decision.”
“Well what is it,” Applejack asked instantly curious.
Twilight levitated out another letter and Apple Jack telepathically grabbed it and began to read.
Dearest Applejack,
After much deliberation my sister and I have come to a concordance. However, we both feel it more appropriate to deliver our judgment in person. As usual we are quite busy or else we would have come to you, but under the circumstances we believe the fastest and cleanest way to resolve things is for you to come here to Canterlot. We are terribly sorry for any inconvenience, but we have already made the arrangements, the train will take you to Canterlot with no need of payment, it shall depart at noon, please make haste.
Princess Celestia
Applejack looked nervous as she finished reading the letter, “that seem a tad odd to you Twi?”
Twilight nodded in agreement, “yes the princess doesn't really sound much like herself at all, the whole thing sounded rushed and stiff.”
“Oh shoot,” Applejack said, as she looked up to where the sun was in the sky, “it's almost noon, we gotta go!”
Twilight hastily walked up to Applejack and promptly teleported them to the train station.
The conductor saw them and waved them over, “your just in time, we're about to leave, get on hurry, the princess has already told me you were coming.”
Applejack got on board and Twilight was about to follow when the conductor moved in the way, “hold on there missy, the princess only told me about one passenger, who are you?”
Twilight took a few steps back looking shocked, “the princess didn't arrange for me to go with AJ?”
“No sir, and I ain't got time to argue with you, you either pay up or you ain't riding.”
Twilight looked at Applejack, “AJ I didn't think I would need any money, please tell me you have some.”
Applejack looking desperate turned to the conductor, “please sir shes mah friend, you gotta let her come.”
Just then the train began to move, and the conductor hopped on the now moving train, “sorry too late.”
Applejack looked back at Twilight with sad eyes, and Twilight her. They both waived and Twilight yelled, “don't worry Applejack, I'll catch the next train!”
Applejack stared out the back window until she couldn't see Twilight anymore, then settled down in the nearest seat. She sat there for a while thinking about not having one of her closest friends there with her, and then about what the princesses had decided. After a short while she became aware of the other passengers. More precisely she became aware of how aware they were of her. Most of the passengers had noticed the alicorn on board and were either staring or whispering amongst themselves and occasionally glancing her way. This was the first time Applejack had left Ponyville since her wings had grown in, and the first time she had been without her friends since her horn had started to come in. She now sat over a foot taller than any stallion, well taller than any normal mare, her horn was of considerable length, and her wings were gigantic.
She became painfully aware that she was a bit of a freak. No one but the princesses, her closest friends, and the doctor that diagnosed her, knew what was happening, to everyone else she was an oddity. She shrank slightly in her seat, feeling embarrassed.
The rest of the ride passed painfully slow for Applejack as the whispering and staring continued. Once the train reached Canterlot she all but bolted from it, desperate to get away from the prying eyes.
As before, Celestia was there waiting for her, “I'm glad to see you made the train Applejack, I was afraid that you might not, considering what little notice I could give, I do apologize.”
Applejack not fully able to hide her annoyance couldn’t help but ask, “why couldn't Twilight come,” she paused then added, “you majesty.”
Celestia stared for a moment then blinked, “Oh my, did I forget to inform them to let Twilight come with you, my deepest apologies, it slipped my mind, I have been so focused on you in the past few days I completely forgot to...,” she trailed off and got a blank stare on her face. After a moment she snapped back, “it doesn't matter now, this way please.” Celestia began to walk towards the castle, and without having a chance to say anything, Applejack followed.
Once inside the main throne room Celestia turned to face Applejack, “please wait here while I go fetch Luna, we want to talk to you together.”
Uneasily Applejack nodded. Celestia went through the door and Applejack sat and waited in silence. Several minutes later both Celestia and Luna came through the door and slowly walked up to the throne, Celestia sat down in it, while Luna sat on her right side. Luna looked very tired, it was still the middle of the day, and Celestia had woke her to come.
They sat, and both princesses stared at Applejack, as Applejack stared back. Applejack didn't dare speak, and the princesses both seemed for the longest as if they would not either. After nearly an entire minute Luna broke the silence, “Applejack, how hath thou been,” she said in what was obviously a failed attempt to break the tension.
Applejack, caught off guard by the friendly question, stood there dumbly for a moment before managing to say, “I been... uh... well I s'pose.”
The entire room was tense, and no one wanted to speak, but Celestia took the burden on herself next, “Well Applejack, as you know we have reached a decision,” she paused to see how Applejack would react, but all Applejack did was continue to stare apprehensively, so Celestia continued. “We weren't sure whether or not you could handle life as normal, we considered for a while letting you stay and live your life normally until what time you saw fit to leave, however, the recent Rainboom proved that you were already powerful enough to do significant damage if left unchecked, accidental or intentional. Because of that, we decided that you would be best off staying here in Canterlot with us, where you could be guided on your magic, and better learn to control your new found powers.”
Applejack simply hung her head, she had been prepared for this, she knew there was a good possibility that this would be their decision, but she had already thought of the problems with this as well, “what bout mah family, ah do half the work round Sweet Apple Acres, they need me.”
Luna feeling more confident with the largest part of the news out of the way chimed in, “yes Applejack we thought of that, that is what made this decision so hard, we thought long and hard about that and came to two possible conclusions, you could bring them here to live in Canterlot with you, and we would pay for everything and keep them comfortable, or you may decide to allow them to stay at their home and we will send them the money they need to live, the decision is yours.”
Applejack stood there thinking about it for a moment, “no, the decision isn't mine to make, its mah families, they need to make the choice for themselves, ah couldn't make a decision like that for em, it just wouldn't be right.”
Celestia nodded her head, “we understand completely, we shall depart momentarily and discuss the matter with your family.”
Applejack looked up, “and what about my friends, can they come?”
Both Luna and Celestia nodded, Luna spoke, “of course Applejack, any friends of our sisters is welcome.”
Celestia gave a look to Luna, and Luna looked embarrassed, Celestia sighed and drooped her head, “well I suppose that you would need to be told eventually.”
Applejack looked back and forth between the two princesses, “whada ya mean?”
Celestia looked at Luna, “well go on Luna, it was your idea.”
Luna smiled broadly and looked at Applejack, “before we welcomed you as a friend into the eternity, after much thought and persuasion,” Luna looked at Celestia who looked away slightly irritated, “we have decided to welcome you as a sister, henceforth you will be our little sister, princess Applejack!”
Applejack was shocked, “princess,” she muttered and looked down.
Luna looked a little worried and rushed to explain, “don't worry, you need not have any duties, it is merely something we do for the subjects, they will question, and over time it will be easier for them to accept you as our sister, much as they have Cadence as Celestia's niece.”
“So that's where that came from,” Applejack questioned turning to Celestia.
Celestia, still head low murmured, “I didn't know what to do, so I just told the first thing that came to mind, everyone bought it, but people still ask questions.”
Luna smiled a little, “you take things far too seriously sister, it will all boil over after a few hundred years when everyone has forgotten her. This,” she said motioning her head towards Applejack, “will not go away anytime soon, so we need an adequate story, and this time one that doesn't raise several questions,” Luna finished smiling devilishly at Celestia.
Celestia finally looked up, “enough of this, let us go and sort the matter at hand, the Apple family deserves to be informed of the situation as soon as possible.”
Luna, remembering the issues at hand, nodded and stepped between them, “right then let us depart,” she said as she teleported them to Sweet Apple Acres.
Once there Applejack looked around for a moment, “how'd you do that, I thought teleporting that far would be impossible.”
Celestia looked amused, “maybe for a Unicorn, but for us distance is of little concern.”
Luna nodded in agreement, “indeed, we once even wondered if we could perhaps escape from the moon by such means, but had to wait a thousand years when the moon was at its closest.”
Applejack looked amazed, and began to think she needed to learn how to teleport herself. After that she went to discuss things with her family. She explained the situation, to them, Big Macintosh was ready to go with her until Granny Smith said that she would never leave the farm. Apple Bloom wanted to go when she first heard about it, but then realized she wouldn't be able to see her friends anymore. After that Applejack was sure none of them would be happy with her in Canterlot, and promised to visit whenever possible. Applejack then went to each of her friends to explain to them what was happening, and ask them if they wanted to go. Pinkie Pie saw it as an opportunity to meet new people and make more friends, so she was more than willing to go. Twilight being from Canterlot decided that it was a fantastic idea, and started packing. Fluttershy said she couldn't possibly leave all of her animals and apologized to Applejack for not being able to go. Rainbow Dash sounded ready to go until Applejack let slip that Fluttershy wasn't going, at which point she decided she better stay for her sake. Finally Applejack asked Rarity who was instantly delighted to go, but then thought about her sister. Rarity asked if it would be alright if her sister could come as well, Applejack went and asked Celestia who said it would be alright. When Applebloom found out that Sweetie Bell was going she decided she would rather go. Scootaloo heard that both her best friends were going and asked if she could come to. In the mean time Rainbow Dash had been talking to everyone else, and when she realized that everyone else was going she went and tried to talk Fluttershy into going, Fluttershy after a short time agreed to go on the condition she could take Angel.
Applejack went and told Celestia who all wanted to come. After having had been explained all that had happened over the course of several hours, Celestia stared at the large group for a moment before saying, “well this certainly is a crowd. I suppose we have enough room for you all, but we will have to do some rearranging for a bit before you all have a place to stay for yourselves.”
“Wait,” said Big Macintosh as he came running up on the crowd. When he reached the crowd everyone was looking at him waiting for him to speak again. After a moment he said, “ah talked to Granny Smith, since you and Bloom will be going, she decided it would be best to tag along.” Just then Winona ran up and barked. Big Macintosh turned to look and then said with a smile, “and o'course Winona too.”
The whole group laughed. After that the entire group went to there respective homes to get their belongings and their pets. Once everyone finished packing they all met at Rarity's boutique, due to her being the last one packed.
“Is everyone ready,” Celestia asked, looking around at all the baggage, ponies, and pet's that would soon need to be accommodated in Canterlot.
“Almost done,” Rarity said from somewhere in the back of the store, rummaging around.
Celestia motioned to Luna, “sister let us begin, I'm afraid if we don't hurry we will be late to bring about the night.”
Luna nodded and walked up the Apple Family, “are you three ready to go?”
Winona barked, and Applebloom said, “four.”
Luna teleported them to Canterlot, and began finding them temporary quarters.
Celestia then took Pinkie Pie, Gummy, Rainbow Dash, Tank, Fluttershy, and Angel, leaving only Applejack, Rarity, Opalescence, Sweetie Bell, Twilight, Owlowiscious , Spike, and Scootaloo.
After a few minutes Luna came back and took Scootaloo, Twilight, Owlowiscious, and Spike.
Finally after a few more minutes Celestia came to take Applejack, Rarity, Opalescence, Sweetie Bell, and Rarity's ridiculous amount of luggage.
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Chapter Nine and a half: “Twilight's Train Troubles”
Chapter Nine and a half: “Twilight's Train Troubles”
{Authors Note : I didn't think this was all that important to the story, but thought it would be funny enough and necessary to write in. I didn't want to give it a full chapter, nor did I want to break the flow of chapter nine, so I suppose you can call this a “bonus chapter” if you like.}
Twilight yelled, “don't worry Applejack, I'll catch the next train,” as she continued to wave at the train pulling out of the station. After it was out of sight Twilight got irritated. “The nerve, he could have at least let me get on and pay him later, and I can't believe Princess Celestia would forget me like that.”
Twilight went to look at the train schedule and pricing. She found when the next train was headed to Canterlot, and how much it would be. She then quickly ran home to get the money she would need. When she walked in the door Spike was eating ice cream from the tub with a large spoon, surprised he tried to hide it behind his back, “oh Twilight, what are you doing here, I thought you'd be on the train with Applejack heading to Canterlot.”
“Well I would be but I didn't have any money, and apparently the princess forgot to mention me in her letter to the station. Are you eating ice cream again Spike?”
Spike blushed slightly and said, “I'm sorry Twilight, this stuff is just so good.”
Twilight gave Spike a disappointed look, “well I don't have time to lecture you right now, I need the money for those tickets pronto.”
Spike looked down at the floor and kicked his foot.
Twilight realized why almost immediately, “Spike, please tell me that we had that ice cream before I left.”
Spike still looking at the ground said in hushed tone, “no, I uh.... went out and bought it.”
Twilight groaned, “please tell me we at least have enough for a ticket to Canterlot.”
Spike looked up, “well we have enough for a ticket TO Canterlot, but we don't have enough for both ways.”
Twilight looked hopeful, “that's fine, the princess will be able to make arrangements to get me home, I'm sure she will understand.”
Twilight grabbed what money Spike had left her and went to the train station. She waited impatiently for ten minutes for the next train. Once it arrived she quickly boarded, but got irritated as the train waited for all passengers to board. After a few minutes the train was in motion and she fell back in her seat, calming down, knowing there was nothing to do now but wait. The train ride was uneventful, and when the train arrived at Canterlot she ran straight to the castle.
She looked all around the castle for any sign of Applejack, Celestia, or Luna, but she found none. After half an hour of searching she finally asked a guard, who informed her that they had went back to Ponyville.
“WHAT,” Twilight yelled, getting enraged. After a moment she realized that without the princess here she was stuck. She thought about it and decided she could go explain the situation to her parents who could lend her the money she needed to get back home.
She went to her parents house and knocked for a whole minute before asking their neighbors where her parents were. The neighbors informed her that her parents had went on vacation and wouldn't be back for three days.
“Oh you have got to be kidding me,” Twilight said as she walked back to the train station. She figured she could wait for them to arrive back there, it seemed to be her only hope. Once she got there one of the guards stationed at the station saw her looking sad, “hey Twilight why you looking so sad for?”
Twilight looked up, “oh, I just came here to catch up with my friend Applejack, and didn't have the money to go home, but they already left back for Ponyville.”
“Is that all,” the guard asked and turned to face the conductor of the train currently in the station, “hey conductor,” the conductor turned to look, “mind if the student of Princess Celestia tags along, she needs to get back to Ponyville.”
“Student of Celestia you say? Well why not,” he turned to Twilight, “hop on board miss, the train leaves in twenty minutes.”
Twilight stared dumbfounded, then after a moment turned to the guard, “thanks, you don't know how much trouble you saved me.”
She walked on board and began mentally kicking herself for forgetting how famous she really was.
{Authors notes: I want to quickly thank my friends John, Cody, Craig, and Chris for helping with spell and grammar check, also my grandmother for helping me put the finishing touches. I would also like to especially thank Chris for challenging me to write this, and finally I would like to remind anyone who has actually read this far that this is part one part two can be found at: Retexo }
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Chapter Seven “Coping With The Circumstances”
Chapter Seven “Coping With The Circumstances”
As Luna had predicted, Applejack and Twilight were allowed to leave for home. On the train ride back, nearly at Ponyville, the two struck up conversation once more.
“It was shock enough to ma family the first time ah told em I was changing, ah just don't know if I'm up ta tellin them again.”
“You may not have to,” Twilight said a little sheepishly.
“Whada ya mean,” Applejack said eying Twilight suspiciously.
“Well...” Twilight squirmed a little, “I may have sent a letter back to Spike telling him about what we learned.”
“Oh no,” Applejack said, already knowing where this was going, “and he told everyone huh?”
“Yeah, pretty much,” Twilight said with a slight smile.
“Great, do they know we are heading back in today?”
“Spike knows, but I doubt he's had enough time to tell that many people we are coming in today, I sent that letter just before we left.”
As they pulled into the train station, only Rainbow Dash and Spike were waiting for them.
“AJ,” Rainbow said in a joyous tone, swooping down to give Applejack a big hug, “I hear you're growing wings, congratulations!”
“Not now Dash, I wanna go home and talk with ma family.”
“OK I'm not going to stop you, just keep in mind when those bad boys come in that your best friends with the fastest Pegasus in all of Equstria.”
“Yeah, so,” Applejack said, not really seeing were Rainbow Dash was going with this.
“SO,” Rainbow Dash said a little irritated, “your going to need someone to teach you to fly aren't you?”
Applejack realized the offer Rainbow Dash was extending and smiled, “thank ya Rainbow, I'll keep you in mind.”
“Ah yeah,” Rainbow Dash said and flew in a tight loop midair, “I can't wait to get started, you hurry up and grow those wings OK?”
Applejack smiled at Rainbow Dash's enthusiasm, “alright Dash I'll get right on that.”
After that Applejack headed back to Sweet Apple Acres to talk with her family, and Twilight went to her home to study a while on Pegasus flight.
Once home Applejack began speaking with her family about what she had learned, but as she figured, they had all already heard from Spike. Relieved to not have to break such news a second time, Applejack ate some lunch, and went to bed early.
The next day she woke up to find two incredibly small wings on each side of her. “Well that was fast,” she mumbled, already having gotten used to the concept of having wings. She went outside and began practicing her magic for a few hours. By the time Rainbow Dash showed up she had gotten to the point were she could move an entire fields worth of apples into multiple baskets in just a few seconds.
“Wow AJ, your doing fantastic on your magic, I hope you put that much effort into flying,” Rainbow Dash said as she flew in observing the massive movement of apples. As she landed she saw Applejack's tiny, but very noticeable wings, “whoa your wings have already came in?”
“Oh yeah, woke up and there they were.”
“Well then let's get started.”
“Rainbow, I don't think these tiny wings are going to take me anywhere.”
“No not yet, but there are a few things you can do to get a jump start on things.”
“Like,” Applejack asked expectantly.
“For instance,” Rainbow Dash said as she landed, “high jumps, you can use your wings for extra lift at any size or strength, to get slightly higher, just try jumping straight up and flapping your wings once as hard as you can, like this,” at the last word Rainbow Dash shot straight up propelling herself with not only her legs, but also her wings, she then gently fell to the ground with her wings outstretched. “Now you try.”
“OK,” Applejack said, and crouched down and attempted to jump straight up. She went fairly far but didn't actually flap her new wings at all, but not for a lack of trying.
After she landed Rainbow Dash looked irritated, “no, no, you got to flap your wings, you have tried moving them right?”
“Well no not really,” Applejack said a little matter of factly.
Rainbow Dash let out a grumble, and said “OK then just try to do this,” Rainbow Dash flexed her wings out then back in.
Applejack tried to imitate Rainbow Dash, but just ended up Twitching her shoulders a lot. After this went on for nearly a minute, Rainbow Dash flew over to her and grabbed a wing. “OK Applejack this may hurt a little, are you ready?”
“What are you gonna do?”
Without answering, Rainbow Dash lifted up Applejack's right wing into full stretch. Applejack let out a small yelp, and pulled away, once her wing was out of Rainbow Dash's hooves, it snapped back to her body.
“Whadya do that for,” Applejack asked gently rubbing her right wing.
“Sorry AJ, that's what you do to newborn Pegasus when there wings won't open, it's a little painful, but if you don't do it then the wings won't open when they're an adult, and when they are older the wings are stronger, making them a lot harder to force open, and if I remember right I was told your wings were going to be about Celestia's size.”
Still rubbing her right wing Applejack hesitantly asked, “OK but can you be a little slower next time?”
“Don't worry, the more you do it the less it will hurt.”
Applejack and Rainbow Dash spent the next thirty minutes slowly flexing Applejack's new wings. After that Applejack was feeling a little more confident in their use.
“OK Rainbow, I think I can flex them on my own now.”
“Let me see, I wanna be sure.”
Applejack slowly opened then shut her wings. “Again, but faster,” Rainbow Dash said almost like a drill instructor. Applejack opened and closed her wings again, in about two seconds time. “Faster,” came Rainbow Dash again. Once again Applejack opened and shut her wings, this time in about one second. “Just a little bit faster,” Applejack opened and closed her wings in about half a second's time, and came about half an inch off the ground.
“You did it! OK now do what I showed you earlier, look straight up, and jump flapping your wings.”
Applejack looked straight up, and jumped, flapping her wings mid air. She got about a foot higher then she had earlier.
“Keep that up and you will be flying almost as fast as me in no time,” Rainbow Dash said with pride showing in her voice.
“OK Rainbow, I'ma call it quits for today, I'm hungry and it's gettin late.”
“OK then, but don't you slack off, if I'm not here tomorrow, you keep doing that OK?”
“Sure thing Rainbow.”
Rainbow Dash took off in the direction of her house in the sky, and Applejack went in to eat another huge meal. She wished she didn't need so much food to sustain her growth.
The next day she went into Ponyville to go to a party that Pinkie Pie had decided to throw her. She called it her “Applejack Becoming an Alicorn Party,” and all five of Applejack's friends were going to be there.
When she arrived Pinkie Pie greeted her enthusiastically, “Oh AJ I can't believe the news, are you really becoming an alicorn? Huh huh huh?”
“You can see ma horn and ma wings can't ya Pinkie?”
Pinkie Pie stopped for a moment to examine the horn and wings. “Wow wee those are really neato, I wish I had them, or even one of them, I mean can you imagine what I could do if had a horn, or wings, I mean I could do SO MANY THINGS.”
Applejack stopped to shudder for a bit at the thought. Pinkie Pie kept going, “I'm so excited, I've never been so excited, well except for that time...”
Twilight interrupted, “Pinkie isn't that the third time you've used that line?”
Pinkie gave her a look as if she was stupid, “duh Twilight, don't you know the readers love a reference like that? Now you've gone and ruined it, oh well.”
Twilight and Applejack looked at each other and shrugged.
The rest of the party consisted of Applejack visiting with each of her five closest friends, and them sharing advice. Rarity attempted to advise Applejack on what a princess should wear, Rainbow Dash talked about how to achieve maximum speed while flying, Twilight talked about Canterlot and how to handle the people there, Fluttershy talked about how Applejack should be herself and not let other's expectations change her. Finally Applejack sat down with Pinkie Pie after everyone else had left Sugar Cube Corner. “Well I s'pose your going to tell me somethin like 'you should have fun in life' or somethin like that.”
Pinkie Pie looked a little sympathetic, “what's wrong AJ, aren't you happy to have your new horn and wings?”
“Yeah ah am, but Celestia talked about how I'm gonna live for a really long time, and how I'll have to watch everyone grow old and die.”
“So, what's the big deal?”
“I don't want to watch everybody I care fer die.”
“But AJ, you were going to do that anyway, or die first. You need to look at this the other way around silly. It's not that you have to watch everypony grow old and die, it's that you get to watch everyone you know live out there whole lives, and not worry them with your own death.”
Applejack looked at Pinkie Pie for a moment, then smiled and hugged Pinkie Pie, “thank ya so much Pinkie, you don't know how much that means to me.”
Pinkie Pie smiled wide and hugged Applejack back, “always glad to help a friend smile.”
