The Stalker (The Midnight Series)

by Notowa

Rating: mature
Tags: Cutie Mark Crusaders, Tragedy, Profanity, Big Macintosh, Applejack (EqG), Dark, Human, Rarity (EqG), Drama, Equestria Girls, Apple Bloom
Length: 27107

Apple Bloom encounters a dark revelation about her past, and starts to shatter her perception of everyone she loves, and the world around her.

After having been encounter by a stranger, Apple Bloom was unsure of how to properly take the situation. She started asking about it, and it turns out to be a predator on the prowl for children. After being told about them, she starts seeing the world around her change, and become less like a happy loving world to a world full of darkness and suffering.

Published 2020-08-31 01:10:01 UTC
Last updated 2020-08-31 01:10:01 UTC

Chapter 1: Unaware

Chapter 1: Unaware

1

It was a quiet night, no clouds covered the night sky. Unlike it has for the past weeks of endless rainfall. The moon was a crescent shape, like a smiling face, smiling back at the people beneath.

There was a small gathering of best friends inside a barnyard, having a sleepover. Laying in the haystacks, a small portable TV hooked up with a small VCR. They all snuggled in the blankets with the towering barrels of hay stacks above. Their recent movie ended, and they were discussing what to do next.

"What should we watch next?" Apple Bloom asked, kneeling across the way of her friends, set beside the TV. She was a young, free-spirited girl. Her hair was bright red, her eyes were like a precious jasper stone, wearing an orange nightgown. Her friends Sweetie Belle, her dazzling curls of white and purple streaks off in the side, and Scootaloo, her tanned skin, short purple locks, sat together, trying to think of something to say.

"I'm not sure." Sweetie Belle said calmly, her lightened tone, in her fancy white gown. Scootaloo was her rival in most situations, as she would put it. With her high-class attitude, and fancy array of clothing, Scootaloo calls her 'prep.'

"Yeah, me either." Scootaloo added. Scootaloo was often outspoken about a lot of things. She was the toughest one out of all of them. She wore heavy clothing that night, heavy jacket, cargo pants, and brown boots. She was too heated to sleep underneath the covers. The choice of clothing, her hairstyle, and her big mouth, her two worst enemies call her 'tomboy.' She didn't really enjoy a lot of the girly things herself, but she hated that name.

"Oh, well... ah suppose we could do somethin' else?" Apple Bloom suggested, as she crawled near to see what the two were talking about. Both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo had multiple conversations together alone, but they wanted to keep Apple Bloom's innocence in the group. It was almost too hard to not say certain things around her.

"Let's see..." Sweetie Belle was thinking. "I suppose we could talk about the weird play Diamond Tiara has been acting in."

"Ooh, are we talking smack about Diamond Tiara?!" Scootaloo said with such excitement.

"C'mon guys, she's not that bad." Apple Bloom said, as her brows narrowed.

"Not that bad?!" Sweetie Belle continued, as she looked into Apple Bloom's eyes. "She almost killed us last time!"

"Yeah! She did." Scootaloo added, always had something to say about it too, as she sat up, crossed her arms, and sat criss-cross. "She's been out of control! Especially with all those bodyguards!"

"You don't like her, huh?" Apple Bloom asked softly.

"Well, yeah?" Sweetie Belle questioned.

"She'll never change." Scootaloo said, feeling sure of it. "That act she put on, wasn't even trying to look good. Are you seriously thinkin' she is, Apple Bloom?"

"It looked like it." Apple Bloom said honestly. "Ah think she could... ah do hope her intentions are well."

"Sweet Apple Bloom, you know a person like her will only use people like us to get what she wants, right?" Sweetie Belle said, as she would try to lecture her. "Her begging for our help, was almost too pitiful."

"I agree." Scootaloo commented. "Not only that, but what she did to you Apple Bloom... aren't you a little upset at that?"

"What? About the kiss?" Apple Bloom said, as she held her hand up to her cheek. She blushed on the thought of it, as it came out of nowhere.

"Yeah, I understand your family has been doing business for a really long time, but that... what can we say about that?" Sweetie Belle questioned, as she shrugged.

"Right?!" Scootaloo said.

"Ah don't know what to say really? It was just sudden... didn't have time to react, but it felt genuine, ya know?" Apple Bloom said, kind of embarrassed that she didn't say anything of it.

"Are you confused?" Scootaloo asked, looking directly towards Apple Bloom.

"Just a little." Apple Bloom answered, as she continued to blush on the thought of it.

"You know, now that I think about it... it might make for a good fanfic?" Sweetie Belle suggested.

"Oh yeah, totally! Like it could be like, instead of Apples and Oranges, it will be Apples and Diamonds!" Scootaloo chuckled. Sweetie Belle smiled.

"Oh stop, ya guys!" Apple Bloom blushed and chuckled. "What about you two?"

"Pardon?" Scootaloo said, as her smile went away.

"You two!" Apple Bloom said. "Sweetaloo! Or ScootaBelle?"

"Her and me?" Sweetie Belle mocked, looked at her with discontent.

"Yeah, that wouldn't work!" Scootaloo said. "She's way too high maintenance for me!"

"High maintenance?!" Sweetie Belle yelled, feeling offended. "You're the one who needs maintenance!" Sweetie Belle threw a pillow at Scootaloo.

"Haha, sure... not as much as you!" Scootaloo said, as she threw it back. It knocked Sweetie Belle into the haystack behind her. She rubbed the back of her head, as the haystacks were quite solid.

"See? Ah know what am talking about!" Apple Bloom said, as she was laying beside them with large googly eyes. "Opposites attract!"

"Get real!" Scootaloo said, as she slowly laid a pillow on Apple Bloom's face. "Well, since we are talking about relationships. What have been the ones you've seen recently?" Scootaloo asked, saving the conversation.

"My sister and Applejack is the only I can name..." Sweetie Belle said. "Only because it frustrates me every now and then!"

"What do ya mean?" Apple Bloom asked, as she got up and hugged the pillow.

"Oh... I-I mean... it's great!" Sweetie Belle gestured, with a weak smile. "They're a cute couple!"

"Yeah. Ah just wished ah haven't been so mean to her about it though..." Apple Bloom admitted, as her face became concerned for them.

"Why? What's up?" Scootaloo asked.

"Well, every since ah first saw them... kissing... ah didn't know what to say to it." Apple Bloom admitted. "Ah kinda blame myself that they chose to live elsewhere."

"It's not your fault, Apple Bloom!" Sweetie Belle said, sincerely. "I'm sure it was for... reasons..."

"But, ah never got to say ah was happy for her!" Apple Bloom admitted.

"C'mon Apple Bloom, you can always talk to her about that. It's not like she's far away or anything!" Scootaloo said.

"Yeah, I guess you're right!" Apple Bloom said. Sweetie Belle looked at Scootaloo, as if they both saved the conversation.

"So, how do you feel about yourself and Diamond?" Scootaloo asked. Sweetie Belle elbowed her left arm.

"Huh? Me and Diamond?" Apple Bloom said, as her head perked up. "Ah don't know... okay ah guess...?"

"Do you like Diamond?" Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo did the same thing, only Sweetie Belle couldn't hide the pain she felt.

"Uh... am not sure. Am not really into girls, like that." Apple Bloom said, her face started to heat again.

"Oh no, it has nothing to do with that, Apple Bloom. You don't necessarily have to be into girls, just... do you actually like Diamond?" Scootaloo said.

"Ah guess ah do." Apple Bloom admitted. "In a way."

"Well, I guess we'll see if she is legit in changing then." Sweetie Belle added. "I suppose she needs high maintenance!"

"Yeah, for sure!" Apple Bloom smiled, as Scootaloo chuckled.

"So, Apple Bloom... is there anyone else you find, likable?" Scootaloo added. "Or anyone that you know in a relationship?"

"Not that am aware of." Apple Bloom said, as she was in much thought. "Wait... there was this one guy that was almost too into me!" Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at each other, then went in closer, smiling for the fact she may have an admirer. "What?" Apple Bloom looked confused.

"A guy? Someone at our school?" Sweetie Belle asked, with a huge smile on her face.

"No, he was much older! He was tall and wore dark clothing!" Apple Bloom continued. "Ah saw him walk by a few times as ah was at the park by myself once. He looked like he wanted to ask me somethin' but was a little shy."

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle's smiles went away, as they both looked concerned for Apple Bloom.

"We are not talking about the Slender Man, right?" Scootaloo said, as one brow narrowed in concern. Sweetie Belle bumped her head.

"Is that person... still around?" Sweetie Belle asked, as she cautiously looked around inside the barn with her eyes.

"No, not after my brother took care of it, since the guy was following me back home." Apple Bloom continued. "Ah didn't know why? But, my brother was a little upset at me after that."

"Apple Bloom, how long ago was this?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Yeah, and you went to the park without us?" Scootaloo interrupted.

"Shut up!" Sweetie Belle said, as she punched into Scootaloo's arm again.

"Ow, that actually hurt!" Scootaloo whispered. Sweetie Belle looked at her with fierceness that made her shut up.

"It was about a couple of weeks ago, they were having ice cream sales there, and ah wanted to go." Apple Bloom said, as she scratched her head trying to remember. "Ah think, ah tried contacting you, but you were busy. Applejack was with Rarity, and Big Mac had to stay to fix up the fence!"

"Oh, Apple Bloom..." Sweetie Belle worried, as she slowly facepalmed. "You do know, not to talk to strangers, or go out alone, right?"

"But, it was only for a little while, ah really wanted some ice cream! You guys weren't around at the time?!" Apple Bloom said, shrugging as she didn't know what she said caused a little panic.

"Yeah, but it could have been a lot worse there!" Scootaloo said, as she placed her hands down on the hay, confronting Apple Bloom, in which made her jump.

"Are you sure it wasn't just a person who was lost, or needed help?" Apple Bloom asked.

"I don't know? But, there are people out there that aren't necessarily good." Sweetie Belle said.

"What do ya mean?" Apple Bloom asked, she had a little worried look on her face. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle looked at each other. They thought it should be up to her parents or her family to tell her about these things, but they are with her the most to warn her about something she may not know about.

"Sweetheart, there are people out there who are not good people... they are..." Sweetie Belle tried to tell her, but couldn't find the words to say it in a slightly comforting way.

"My folks used to call them 'kiddie-fiddlers'." Scootaloo said.

"Kiddie-fiddlers?" Apple Bloom questioned. "Like they like to play with kids?"

"In a way... in a way that's not fun for kids..." Sweetie Belle said cautiously, as she looked down at the hay.

"Hmm?!" Apple Bloom thought, confused and slightly more worried.

"Look, these are people who want to harm kids for fun." Scootaloo said blatantly, Sweetie Belle pushed Scootaloo a little bit out of the conversation.

"Is that true?" Apple Bloom asked nervously. "And, they hurt kids... or someone like us?"

"Yes... they like to stalk kids. They find out who you are, and they follow you, until they can get you at your most vulnerable." Sweetie Belle said, feeling a bit reserved to tell her.

"You're joking, right? Ah didn't know we were talkin' about ghost stories yet!" Apple Bloom said, nervously joking.

"No, it's not stories, these are real people. And, they are scary because they do want to use you, touch you in places you don't like, and hurt you for fun!" Scootaloo jumped into the conversation. Apple Bloom was a little ticked off. Sweetie Belle was even more frustrated with her.

"Am not sure ah follow." Apple Bloom said, as she looked down, unsure of what to think of it.

"Maybe you should ask Big Mac, or Granny Smith about them." Sweetie Belle suggested. "I'm sure they'll help you more than we can!" Sweetie Belle assured response made Apple Bloom a little lifted.

"Alright." Apple Bloom said, as she held up her head. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at each other, a little relieved from being away from the conversation.

"So..." Scootaloo said, as she scratched the back of her head. "How about Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, am I right?!"

The girls continued the night talking about other people's relationships, having a laugh thinking about how they all can make things interesting in school, in which Apple Bloom was unaware of what they meant by that. However, they joked and laughed until it was late in the night.

2

That very night, they all gathered in the blankets, the pillow sat beneath them, having comfort over the hay. Apple Bloom was covered well, as was Sweetie Belle, but Scootaloo laid uncovered. Still warm under all the weighted clothing. Scootaloo slowly shifted to her side, and she unknowingly was wrapping her arms around Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle felt the warmth, and scooted closer to it. She laid close and let Scootaloo wrap her arms around her.

Apple Bloom was shifting in her sleep, she was in thought of what they said earlier about the 'kiddie-fiddlers.' She started to feel scared. Apple Bloom got up, and saw Sweetie Belle laying next to Scootaloo. Apple Bloom smiled, and decided to lay back down and fall asleep.

Chapter 2: Beware, Be Aware

Chapter 2: Beware, Be Aware

1

The morning came, the sun was peeking out from the mountains that surrounded Canterlot City. The beautiful change of the night sky into the daylight. There was a clearing, almost little to no clouds had proceeded.

Apple Bloom awoke in the barn, she yawned and stretched her back with her arms into the air. She turned to look down at the cute couple laying next to each other. It made her smile, she took a picture, in case she needed it for a situational scapegoat. A get out of jail free card.

Apple Bloom got up, and tapped Scootaloo's shoulders. Scootaloo slightly opened her eyes. When she did, she saw her arms wrapped around Sweetie Belle, Sweetie Belle also wrapped around her. She freaked out, and let out a scream which awakened everyone and everything in the barn. It sounded off the rooster, and shook the cattle into a stampede. Sweetie Belle jumped up, unsure of what to do but panic as she stood up.

"What?! What!!!" Sweetie Belle yelled. Scootaloo was hyperventilating, catching her breath as she had rosy cheeks. Apple Bloom couldn't help but laugh. "What?! What happened?!"

"See for yourself!" Apple Bloom said, as she held up the picture. Sweetie Belle immediately changed, and her face glowed red like an apple.

"You took a picture of us?!" Scootaloo yelled, embarrassed, and started to arch her brows forward to the thought of it being blackmailed.

"Delete that!" Sweetie Belle suggested, as she pointed at Apple Bloom, begging her.

"Nay!" Apple Bloom chuckled, as she put away her phone.

"Apple Bloom?!" Scootaloo said, as she was fired up with rage and embarrassment. "You better delete that right now, or else!" She stood up, and clenched her fist, mocking Apple Bloom.

"Scootaloo, stop..." Sweetie Belle said, as she rubbed her eyes, giving up on the matter. "Remember what we agreed upon!" Sweetie Belle whispered Scootaloo. Scootaloo laid her arms down and sulked. She crossed her arms, pouted, as she bit her bottom lip.

"Breakfast anyone?" Apple Bloom suggested, trying to make peace with the recent developments of this awkward morning.

"Sure." Sweetie Belle said, as she slowly got up. The feeling of sleeping on a hard surface, made her back feel a bit tense.

"Fine..." Scootaloo replied, as she continued to be pouty.

2

There was silence in the kitchen, as Apple Bloom prepared some eggs and bacon. Apple Bloom was humming to herself, as she was cooking. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo sat six feet apart, and an extra three for Jesus, knowing quiet well what they were up to. Apple Bloom showed up, as happy as a clown at a birthday party. She laid down everyone's plate and sat between the two.

"You guys okay?" Apple Bloom asked, looking at the both of them. They both shrugged and started to pick off the plate with their forks. "Ah deleted the picture, ah didn't want you guys to be upset at me."

"Thanks for breakfast, Apple Bloom." Sweetie Belle said, feeling relieved. "And, no worries!"

"Yeah, this is really good!" Scootaloo agreed, with a bit of relief. "Thanks!"

"Thanks. Ah kind of got used to cookin' after Applejack left. Ah remember a great portion of what she told me." Apple Bloom admitted, chewing a piece of bacon.

"Really?" Sweetie Belle delighted the fact, and impressed with Apple Bloom. "That's good."

"Maybe you have a talent for cooking." Scootaloo commented, as she had her mouth full, in which Sweetie Belle did not delight. "You could be a chef!"

"That would be pretty cool!" Apple Bloom said, smiling over the fact that her friends were happy. "Ah could own a restaurant!"

"Yeah, totally!" Sweetie Belle commented.

"Awesome!" Scootaloo added.

As the girls were continuing to eat, and Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo trying to forget about earlier, Big Mac showed up. He wore his favorite red flannel shirt, grungy blue jeans, and underneath the flannel was a plain white tee. His short blonde locks, all ruffled and wild. His shining green eyes were quite pleasing to look as far as Sweetie Belle knew. Scootaloo would roll her eyes, as she looked in Sweetie Belle's direction.

"Big Mac!" Apple Bloom yelled.

"Mornin'!" Big Mac said, as he walked down to get a drink. He grabbed a glass of apple cider, and turned to look at them enjoying their meals. "Are you girls needin' a ride home later on?"

"Actually, Applejack said she would take us back already." Sweetie Belle announced, as cleaned herself.

"Yeah, we're good!" Scootaloo replied, not really smiling much.

"Alrighty." Big Mac said, as he turned back looking around in the cupboards.

"Want some breakfast?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Am havin' some pie." Big Mac said, as he took out a glass pan with five slices left inside.

"You guys have pie in the morning?" Scootaloo asked, wanting to snatch a piece.

"Sometimes, if there's some left over." Apple Bloom responded. "It's actually not that bad to have in the morning!"

"Can I have one too?" Scootaloo asked cautiously, while she was starting to let the drool stream down her chin. Sweetie Belle was grossed out by it, but she did think a slice wouldn't hurt.

"Eeyup!" Big Mac said, as he handed the plate with four slices of apple pie. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both took a slice as quickly as it was handed to them. They enjoyed every bite. The thing with Granny Smith's apple pies, they were absolutely delicious, it is sweet, the right amount of apples and cinnamon, the crust was crumbly, soft, and not too heavy. Anyone who has eaten the pie, falls in love with it almost instantly.

3

After breakfast, the girls were picked up by Applejack. Apple Bloom was at the front door alongside Big Mac, they waved as Applejack pulled away from the driveway. They couldn't see from the sun's glare on the windshield if she had waved back as she drove away.

Apple Bloom was cleaning up her friend's plates and washed the pans she used for breakfast. Big Mac decided to help her by drying them with a towel when she was finished.

"Oh Big Mac, you don't have to..."

"No worries, sis." Big Mac interrupted, with a smile. "You've been doin' a lot 'round here."

"Thanks!" Apple Bloom said, as she smiled and washed the pans. Apple Bloom was reminded of something as she was cleaning the dishes. She caught a glimpse of a local pedestrian walking along the sidewalk, a couple of blocks away, as she looked from the kitchen window. She remembered to ask Big Mac about that time she was apparently stalked. "Hey Big Mac, can ah ask ya somethin'?" Apple Bloom was a bit nervous to start up the morning with a serious question, but she had to know if he knew.

"Of course!" Big Mac said delightfully. As he placed the last plate in the cupboard.

"Do ya remember the time ah went to the park by myself?" Apple Bloom asked, as she took a seat at the kitchen table.

"Sure?" Big Mac said, as he tried to remember that particular moment. He sat down as well, trying to remember.

"Well, that guy that was followin' me home, do ya think he was dangerous?" Apple Bloom continued, as she asked cautiously. Big Mac frowned on the thought of it. He remembered, and Apple Bloom remembered that day as well.

4

Apple Bloom showed up, a little after four, and it was a bit of a hot evening. She went to the park that day to an ice cream sale they were having. She arrived inside the barn, a little confused by a man in heavy dark clothing. On a heated day, that was a little more suspicious, but not to Apple Bloom apparently. Big Mac was finishing up patching up the poles on the fence. He walked out as soon as she asked him about that guy that followed her. He stormed out with a blunt instrument in his hand, and looked out to see the guy. He saw Big Mac, and he walked off. However, he didn't want that guy coming back around, so he followed that guy back to the park. The guy ran for it, being too afraid to reveal his face, and he drove away in a white van that read "Umbra Corp."

Big Mac returned home, and he was a little upset with Apple Bloom.

"No more going out alone!" Big Mac yelled, as he walked into the living room, sweating and had a worried look on his face. His exhausted and deepened voice startled Apple Bloom, as she was sitting on the couch, eating her popsicle.

"Why Big Mac?" Apple Bloom asked softly, as she was feeling a little unsure of why he was upset.

"Just. Don't do it!" Big Mac requested again, raising his voice. Apple Bloom stormed off into her bedroom. Feeling upset, she felt guilty for something she didn't know what she had done. She didn't mean to make her big brother upset. Apple Bloom crawled up to her bed, teary-eyed, as she finished a push-pop slushie.

5

Big Mac was quiet, unsure of what to say. He rubbed his hair, and cleared his throat.

"Apple Bloom... that guy... he was suspicious." Big Mac nervously said. "Am sorry we haven't really spoken up about it since then, but ah want to let ya know about the dangers of child predators!" He looked into Apple Bloom's eyes, she was worried about it.

"So, they are real then?" Apple Bloom said, as she looked down at the table. Big Mac's eyes widened.

"How much do ya know about them?" Big Mac asked.

"Well, from what ah've heard... they like to hurt kids for fun, they like to touch them in weird places, and they stalk them until they are able to get them." Apple Bloom admitted, and Big Mac was little concerned for her, but he blinked his eyes as he looked up at the fridge with multiple business magnets.

"Well, that just about sums it up!" Big Mac said, to his surprise, she was informed, but based on the question, she may not have fully understood the dangers. "But, it is a very big thing now, especially with all the techy stuff. It made it much easier to use to find kids your age." Big Mac looked down, and saw that she was a little worried. "So, it's dangerous for girls like yerself to be out alone anywhere. Ah don't want to scare ya, or shelter ya from the world, but it's dangerous... ya understand?" Big Mac tried to be sincere and clear, but he might have been a little pushy on that fact.

"Hmmm... that's exactly what Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo have been sayin'... but... ah don't get why there are people who would do stuff like that..." Apple Bloom said, as she felt shivers down her spine. A little more worked up for the fact that even Big Mac knew about people like them.

"Not everyone is good... am afraid that's life..." Big Mac said with a little more softer tone. "Am sorry if this upsets ya, but they've been happenin,' only it's becomin' more frequent these days." Apple Bloom looked down to the floor, feeling hurt about hearing these things. "Do ya remember the ol' supermarket downtown?" Big Mac thought an example would be useful for her to know.

"Yeah?" Apple Bloom looked up, as she remembered the times they would go together, and pick up some groceries and have ice cream there.

"Do ya remember seein' pictures of children on them billboards when ya walk past the doors?" Big Mac said, not trying to ruin her memories of going there.

"Yeah." Apple Bloom remembered, they would be new kids on the walls almost every time she went there, as she thought they were kids who accomplished great things. She thought they were awarded and people who go past can see them and their achievements. She wanted to be one of them, to show them her accomplishments on the wall with the other kids.

"Well, those are children who went missin,' an more than half of those kids were usually taken by people who do bad things..." Big Mac said, as Apple Bloom was shocked to hear about it. She looked down on the floor again, not wanting to be on the wall.

"Why wasn't ah told before?" Apple Bloom cried, as she looked up at Big Mac with tears in her eyes.

"Well, Applejack used ta be around ta protect ya whenever ya felt like goin' out. Then you always had friends to be with you as well... since things have changed, ah would be there for ya, but ya know ah always have to take care of Granny, right?"

"Ah guess so..." Apple Bloom continued to tear up, never knowing anything.

"Am sorry ya have ta hear about this... ah feel bad for not bein' there when ya need me..." Big Mac said, as he saw her tearing up, and felt guilty in keeping the information from her. "Or tellin you these things..."

"Oh Big Mac... don't feel like that...!" Apple Bloom saw him as well, he began to feel the same way.

"But ah do... yer my baby sister... ah would do anythin to protect you. But, like ah said, ah also don't want to shelter you too much from everythin' in the world... ah want you to have a life... and am glad that you found friends that would do the same... ah have faith in you, ah have faith in yer friends in makin' the right choices." Big Mac cried.

"Ya really mean that?" Apple Bloom asked, as her tears went away.

"Ah do... as much as y'all mess around... you do watch out for each other, and have each other's backs. Ah couldn't be more proud of the friends ya have!" Big Mac smiled with a tear falling from his face.

"Thanks Big Mac!" Apple Bloom smiled. She went up to Big Mac, and she hugged him passively. He smiled. "Am glad to have a brother like you, always watchin' out for me!" Apple Bloom sat back down. "But, why wasn't ah told before?"

"Well... Applejack figured she would be there for you majority of the time. She didn't think it was necessary to tell ya. Ah understand if this is a little much for ya." Big Mac admitted, as he held her small cold hands.

"No, it's alright. Am glad ah have friends who do watch over me, as ah do for them!" Apple Bloom delighted, smiled brightly.

"Just remember to not talk to strangers, and if they seem a little too suspicious, then let me know!" Big Mac enlightened. "If it were me, it's better to be aware of these things. It's better to know where ya goin than to walk out blind, ya hear?"

"Ahuh!" Apple Bloom smiled.

6

The rest of the day, Apple Bloom and Big Mac watched a movie marathon. They made sure the animals were fed at a decent time, and worked a little around the farm until it became evening time for them to have dinner.

They spent time making dinner together, which was always fun for them together.

7

Evening time had come, the darkness covered the skies. There was melting of the clouds overhead, pouring. The winds were slow, but it carried on.

Most nights were quiet peaceful, even with the bashing of the lights throughout the storm. This night, however, felt unnerving in Apple Bloom's head. She laid closely with her stuffed plushies at her side, inside her deep red blanket, underneath a layer of yellow silk sheets. She was shaking in her sleep. Felt like she was being watched. She constantly turned around to see if anyone was standing beside her bed, when she laid her face away from the door and looked towards the wall. There was no one there, it just felt like there always was.

She looked back towards her bed, and her plushies would be staring back at her, seeing their buttoned eyes glow as the light breaks in the sky from seeing it through her window. She would close her eyes, and tried her hardest to sleep. She would turn around again. Alternating her sleep position frequently, but the flashes of light kept making her eyes open. She couldn't sleep, she stood up a little after eleven. She found a part of her room, a large darkness. She forgot to shut her closet door. It left an empty void in one corner of her room. She was too afraid to get up and close it.

She thought of what Scootaloo or Sweetie Belle would do in this situation. They would tell her everything was okay, or stop being such a baby. Scootaloo would probably get up and shut the closet door for her. While Sweetie Belle would pat her head, as if she were a frightened baby.

Apple Bloom got up to close it. Having been filled with determination of Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle's scolding from her mind, reminded of the courage they must have to be a crusader. She raised from the bed, and ran toward the door, she slammed it and took off back into her bed in an instant. Apple Bloom, feeling accomplished, closed her eyes and began to drift into sleep. However, she heard a slight creak, and the door appeared to be loose from its place in the wall, and slowly started to open again. Apple Bloom was terrified of it, and decided to run off down the hallway. The lightning struck, and it appeared to be a small shirt she wore earlier, blocking the way of the door for it to shut properly.

Apple Bloom ran inside another room, and tunneled her way through to the opening with pillows. She heard a slight scream coming from the other side of the bed. She turned around and saw her older brother Big Mac. Big Mac awoke when he felt someone crawling through the blankets. He panicked, and was about to choke out whomever was about to get near him.

"Apple Bloom?!" Big Mac whispered, as he quickly turned around and uncovered the bed. "Ya scared the shit out of me!"

"Sorry..." Apple Bloom cried, feeling restless and frightened. "Ah was a little scared to sleep by myself..." Big Mac sighed.

"Fine..." Big Mac said, as he turned over to the other side of the bed, facing away from her. Apple Bloom felt a little more comfortable, but couldn't stand the amount of heat and perspiration coming from his bed, she almost choked. "Egh! Ya really need to wash your blankets!" Apple Bloom commented, but Big Mac was already sleeping as he was. She made herself comfortable, and rested. She could feel Big Mac's back, it was sweaty and gross, but he took the darkness away.

Chapter 3: Irredeemable

Chapter 3: Irredeemable

1

The next morning, Apple Bloom awakened. It was still cloudy, with some of the residue still dropping all around the area of last night's storm. She had seen Big Mac already out of bed, with his side of the bed empty, still slightly sweaty. The amount of sweat was a little too much for Apple Bloom, which prompted her to get out of it.

Apple Boom entered her room, and realized her closet door was stuck from the dirty laundry lying around the door. She squinted, as if there was really nothing to worry about, but just her imagination of her recent discoveries. That gave her the idea that maybe things may not be as they seem. What if they are people who just need help? She thought. She wondered if they may seem creepy and weird, doesn't mean they are. She can't just blame anyone for being like that, Apple Bloom thought. What if she could help people, talk some sense into them, and help them become better?

Apple Bloom was dressed into a white shirt with red jean overalls, then made her way to the living room. She saw Big Mac in the living room with a bowl of cereal in his hands, as she went into the kitchen and waited. He got up, as he took the last bite and headed into the kitchen.

Big Mac rinsed the bowl, and placed it in a strainer next to the sink. He turned around, and saw Apple Bloom sitting at the kitchen table. Seeing her sitting quietly at the table freaked him out.

"Ya scared me again!" Big Mac shouted, as he didn't expect to see her up this early. He held his chest, as he felt his heart jumping right out of it.

"Oh, sorry!" Apple Bloom smiled and chuckled. Apple Bloom was feeling a little more intuitive and wanted to make the day seem less gloomy.

"Ya feelin' alright?" Big Mac asked, considering what happened last night.

"Yeah, there was really nothin' to worry about!" Apple Bloom admitted, as she was kicking and waving her feet from being off the floor on a high chair.

"That's good. Glad ta hear!" Big Mac enlightened, he smiled, and was relieved that she was okay after everything he said.

Apple Bloom was a little too impatient to ask Big Mac about her little epiphany about helping strangers, because she felt there was a way to help them out of that mindset. To her surprise, Big Mac disagreed.

"But what if it was possible to help those who are troubled, Big Mac?" Apple Bloom asked, as she looked up to him.

"I'm sorry Apple Bloom, but there are people who are reluctant to change." Big Mac said plainly.

"But why?" Apple Bloom continued. She shrugged and wanted to know the reason.

"Because..." Big Mac thought of a way to tell her, that was easy enough for her to understand. "Once you go down that path, it's hard to get out of it. Sometimes, people who have traveled that far, are not going to turn back. The sad thing is, it's an endless path they are traveling into. They don't remember how it starts, or care how it ends." Big Mac responded. Apple Bloom was a little upset. The way Big Mac explained it was easy enough for her to understand. "There are just some people who are irredeemable. That's why, most people call it trespassin. They walk into it, until it gets to the point of no return."

"But Big Mac... if there was a way..." Apple Bloom cried, as she stopped moving her feet, and sat them down on a rest.

"Now, ah don't want you to worry about that." Big Mac said, as he went down on one knee, and held Apple Bloom's shoulders. Seeing eye to eye, to hopefully get through to her. "Whatever people plan on doin, is between them and God." Big Mac suggested. "Don't go lookin for those people, you will just be lookin for trouble. Might even fall into it yourself... and ah don't want that."

"Big Mac..." Apple Bloom begged.

"Now, that's the last of what I will hear from this, okay?" Big Mac pleaded, as he was starting to head back into the living room, not feeling too good on stomping on her efforts to see the good in everything.

"Big Mac." Apple Bloom said, as she turned towards him leaving the kitchen.

"Eenope." Big Mac ignored.

"Big Mac." Apple Bloom continued.

"No!" Big Mac shouted, as he quickly turned back to look at her dead in the eyes, which scared Apple Bloom. She looked up at him, stunned, unable to move as she blinked her teary eyes. Big Mac realized he raised his voice at her, and looked away. "A-am so sorry..." Big Mac said, as he tried to save the conversation, but Apple Bloom picked herself up and left the kitchen. She ran back upstairs, and shut her room door. Big Mac was upset at himself, but she needed to know that not everyone would listen. He worried for her, and what she might try to do.

Apple Bloom was saddened by Big Mac yelling her again about the same subject, maybe it was a subject that not everyone was comfortable sharing. If only there was a way to help those people, Apple Bloom thought, if she found a way, maybe there would be less scary things to worry about. However, even the thought of her optimistic values, it still pained her to be yelled at by her older brother. Maybe he was still upset about last night? Apple Bloom thought.

She decided to take it easy, and just rest some more in her room. Maybe Big Mac will be cooled off by then, Apple Bloom thought. He doesn't get mad often, especially when it comes to his little sister.

2

About a couple of hours later, Big Mac headed up the stairs to bring Apple Bloom something to eat. He made her a bowl of soup, given it was still a bit of a gloomy day. He knocked on the door, and walked into her bedroom. Apple Bloom was asleep, and he thought of how sweet she looked. He slightly tapped her shoulder to wake her up. She slowly opened her eyes, and saw that Big Mac was there to see her.

"Hey baby sis, ah came to make sure ya eat somethin." Big Mac delighted. Apple Bloom sat up, and yawned to finally open her eyes. She was happy to see a bowl of soup sitting on her nightstand beside her bed.

"Thank ya Big Mac!" Apple Bloom said, as she rubbed her eye. Big Mac smiled. "Am sorry for earlier. Ah was just thinkin..."

"Ah know, and am glad that you have heart for everyone, but ah just want ya to be safe." Big Mac said, as he sat on the bed.

"Thanks." Apple Bloom said, as she started to eat the soup.

Big Mac decided to leave, as Apple Bloom continued to eat. She was looking through her phone, and it appeared that Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo texted Apple Bloom about an hour ago. Asked if she would like to hang out at the park today. Even though they told about the dangers of the outside world, they went on like nothing happened. Apple Bloom agreed, but asked if it was going to storm. They both replied to just take a jacket regardless. Apple Bloom was looking forward to going on another adventure with them.

Apple Bloom finished her soup, and went down to the kitchen to wash it. Big Mac appeared to be in the living room, watching TV like he was earlier. As she was cleaning her bowl, and drying it, she wanted to ask if Big Mac would like to join them at the park. Apple Bloom was still a bit wary about the dangers, so she would like to have her big brother join her at the park for their safety.

"Hey Big Mac!" Apple Bloom shouted, as she went into the living room.

"What's up, sis?" Big Mac asked.

"Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle want to go to the park, and ah was wonderin if you would like to come with?" Apple Bloom requested.

"Come with?" Big Mac questioned. "Are ya sure?"

"Yeah! Well, ah just wanted to make sure that we are safe an everythin." Apple Bloom continued.

"Okay, sure." Big Mac agreed, as he saw that she was starting to change. To alleviate the stress of being fearful of place that contain more people, he agreed to watch over them.

3

Upon arrival, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were already inside the gates, and were surprised that Big Mac was with her this time. They asked about what he was up to. Apple Bloom convinced them about taking safety precautions for the time being. They were alright with it, as Big Mac took a seat at the park bench to keep an eye out for them.

About a few moments, they all were talking and trying to come up with a plan for their next mission on finding magic as Diamond Tiara requested. They were also discussing what could be possible areas to search, but also contemplating the idea of what she will be using magic for. Of course, Scootaloo requested they should ask the Rainbooms about such things, and make sure they were aware of possible misuse of magic.

They were having a blast, Scootaloo was teasing Sweetie Belle whenever she found a worm out on the sidewalks, and would toss them to her when she wasn't looking. Apple Bloom thought of how funny it was to watch them as they always had to start something crazy. Scootaloo would try it on Apple Bloom, but she loved worms and it would not freak her out as it would with Sweetie Belle. So, she asked Apple Bloom to side with her on chasing Sweetie Belle around the park with the worms.

They became tired, and decided to rest from running around on the grass. They looked up to the skies and saw the clouds passing over, as a slight wind blew. The trees ruffled, and the animals took shelter inside. As they all were settled, they sat up to talk to each other. Apple Bloom mentioned her talk with Big Mac about what she learned. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle figured that was why she asked Big Mac to taggle along with them to the park. It was pretty clear that she was taking more of a precaution, and it may take a little while to get used to her new surroundings once again.

However, as Apple Bloom saw the dangers, she was curious to know if they would be delighted in finding ways in helping those people to see into a new light as they come around. Both of them were against it because it would not work, and they will be endangering themselves for that matter. They sat closer to make sure they were alone to talk to her about it. Scootaloo laid on the grass, not really wanting to talk more about the particular topic. Sweetie Belle curled up, holding her shins, crossing them as comfortable as she could. While Apple Bloom sat criss-cross, firmly, taking up the position of announcing her idea.

"Big Mac said they won't change, but what if they can? What if they needed our help?" Apple Bloom suggested.

"I think it's out of our hands, Apple Bloom..." Sweetie Belle replied. "Even for the Crusaders."

"So you think that too?" Apple Bloom questioned.

"Of course. People can't just change easily." Sweetie Belle responded.

"Yeah, especially if it gets to the point when children become the victims of their sick, twisted fantasies!" Scootaloo said blatantly. Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes, as if Apple Bloom needed more of a reason to be scared.

"Big Mac said the same thing. Like when he told me when people travel down that path, they cannot or will not try to come back." Apple Bloom admitted.

"It's true. Hardly anyone awakens from that nightmare." Scootaloo said.

"Yeah, that's why you shouldn't meddle in certain places, don't go trying to search for them either. They won't hesitate!" Sweetie Belle added, trying to make her see reason.

"They will kill you." Scootaloo said blatantly. Sweetie Belle gave her a mean look on her face because she knew Scootaloo was not wanting to continue the conversation, but to say that sort of thing will make Apple Bloom much more fearful of the world.

"Hmmm... I still think there's a way." Apple Bloom admitted, as she looked out to the park, full of people.

"Apple Bloom, no! Don't try it!" Sweetie Belle pleaded, as she stood up. The other two stood up. Apple Bloom looked at them.

"Please Apple Bloom, promise us! Promise us that you won't go looking for people who do!" Scootaloo demanded. They both held up their hands in making Apple Bloom pinkie swear.

"Ah... ah promise." Apple Bloom said, as she pinkie promised to them.

"So?" Scootaloo awkwardly interjected, having settled and slowly peering away from the previous conversation. "Should we get back to our game?" Scootaloo suggested, as Sweetie Belle gave her a slight tap on the shoulder. They both laughed.

4

Meanwhile, Big Mac kept an eye on them as she requested. He watched as they ran around, chasing Sweetie Belle with a worm on a stick. It made him chuckle as she would tumble down, exhausted as they came to her. He was also playing on his phone, just watching videos, waiting half the time for it to buffer to a grainy playable video. It was exhausting in and of itself, as he was getting tired.

Moments later, Big Mac saw a lady that was talking to them. She appeared to be a little concerned for them, but Big Mac was not wanting for them to be getting into trouble. The girls looked like they were not okay with her being there, so Big Mac walked over to see what was up.

"Who are you?!" The lady asked, as she jumped in front of the girls, confronting Big Mac as he approached them.

"Big Mac, who are you?" Big Mac asked.

"Why are you watching these little girls?!" The lady continued, pointing at them as if they were victims. "Are you waiting to see when it's time, when no one's looking?!"

"What?!" Big Mac questioned, as he was confused. "That's my little sister, with her friends. Am supervising them."

"Where's their mothers?!" The lady continued, as she would voluntarily stand against Big Mac and make a scene of herself protecting the girls. The girls were shocked, and didn't move a muscle, as things were taking a turn. The winds began to pick up, the girls started to feel it as the chills ran down their spines. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom both held each other, unsure of what may come and to battle the cold, but Scootaloo stood straight, her brows angled downward, and crossed her arms, watching the argument unfold before her.

"They're not present." Big Mac admitted, confused by the whole matter.

"You see, how can I believe you?!" The lady squandered.

"Please, quit harassin my sister and her friends." Big Mac requested.

"Oh, I'm harassing them?! I'm not the one looking like a creeper at the park!" The lady flustered, as her head would bobble between her words.

"Just stop, you're scaring my sister!" Big Mac demanded.

"I'm not the one they should be afraid of!" The lady said, as she stood looking proudly at the crowd appearing before them. Big Mac saw them approaching, he didn't want this conversation to be public.

"C'mon Apple Bloom!" Big Mac demanded. The girls walked slowly, trying to avoid the lady ahead of them, and keeping an eye on her in case she was about to grab them and run off with them. Scootaloo stuck her tongue, hoping she would see it. Thanks to that lady, she was having less of a good day.

"But..." Apple Bloom cried.

"Now! Sweetie Belle! Scootaloo!" Big Mac interrupted, demanding they flee out of there as quickly as possible.

"Did you just cat-call a little girl?!" The lady questioned, raising her voice. Stopping them in their tracks.

"What?!" Big Mac responded, as he was utterly shocked by what she said.

"You called her sweetie!!!" The lady continued, pointing her finger at him.

"That's her name! As if it's any of your business!" Big Mac said, having become tired of her nonsense.

"Oh it's not, huh?! What kind of name is Sweetie Belle?! Sounds like the name of a stripper!" The lady admitted, as Sweetie Belle opened her mouth widely, feeling offended and embarrassed as was ready to slap her in the face, but Scootaloo was already wanting to unleash her wrath upon her.

"C'mon, let's go!" Big Mac said, as he walked away. Apple Bloom feeling confused, Sweetie Belle turned away and let her hair slap that woman in the face, and Scootaloo looked as if she were to spat in her general direction. The lady wouldn't let up, and followed them.

"You're not leaving! I just phoned the police! You're going to jail, you sick freak!!!" The lady lied, trying to lock them inside the gates.

"What the hell is wrong with you?! Ah don't even know you! Why are doin this?!" Big Mac questioned, as he waved his arms around completely devastated.

"Okay, if she is what you claim to be, prove it! I would like to see if they'll respond?!" The lady continued as pointed fingers at him, as if she was clawing up her way into his head.

"Why would ah do that?!" Big Mac stood against her.

"You're scared! I knew you were guilty of something!" The lady refused to let go.

"Guilty of what?! Ah haven't even done anythin!" Big Mac admitted.

"Yet! But you will! You will! And when you do, I'll be there, I'll be there!!!" The lady continued.

"You are soundin more like the predator to me!" Big Mac backfired.

"How dare you speak to me like that! I'll have you know, I'm president of the recreational parks association, I can have you permanently banned from permitting into this park!" The lady screamed.

"Ya have proof of that statement?!" Big Mac questioned her, making her lose her grip.

"I don't need to prove anything to you!" The lady refused. Apple Bloom was feeling the intense heat in the both of them, even Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were pissed off at her. She placed her hands up to her ears, hoping to avoid the constant bantering, she couldn't take it anymore and ran up to her and pleaded.

"Please... please just stop! He is my brother! These are my friends!" Apple Bloom cried, having tears in her eyes, her voice cracking, and feeling weak against their rage. Big Mac was not pleased for Apple Bloom to be caught up in the middle of the argument. "Ah asked my brother to watch over us because ah was afraid of..."

"Afraid?! Of him?!" The lady interrupted, looking down at her and pointed at Big Mac. "Well, you don't need to worry! The authorities will take him, then you won't have to be afraid anymore." The lady enlightened.

"The hell is wrong with you?!" Sweetie Belle yelled, growing tired of her misuse of power.

"Yeah! Because of this bitch, I don't even care if we come back to this park!" Scootaloo added, adding salt into the wounds, as she pointed at the lady.

"Such disrespectful children! I'm trying to save you, from creeps like him!" The lady continued, and tossed her arms around trying to sabotage a supposed kidnapping.

Not long after, the park's security came by to conduct their business. The lady went up to them and told them everything she thought was correct. They talked with both Big Mac and the lady, and none of the stories added up, but in order to get over the dispute, Big Mac called in Applejack to confirm his case, as the lady rejected them taking his side.

Applejack came by, getting out of the truck, and having to clear things up. In which, the lady was unwilling to give up, but they released them.

"Big Mac! Ah heard what happened!" Applejack confessed, as she saw Big Mac laying his head down, sitting in a position where he regrets ever coming and saying stuff he didn't mean.

"Applejack!" Apple Bloom said, as she ran up to her to give her a hug.

"You girls are safe... good." Applejack said, as she wrapped her arms around the girls. "Sweetie Belle, Rarity wants you back home! Ah'll take you guys!" They all got in the truck, and continued a slow and quiet ride back. Applejack took Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle home, and decided to head back with Big Mac and Apple Bloom to discuss this matter in full.

The lady went down in agony. Saying the patriarchy was still continuing to overthrow her, and was still causing a scene even after everyone left.

5

They arrived home, and they all took a seat in the living room, exhausted and feeling sick from the inside.

"Big Mac... am so sorry..." Apple Bloom confessed, as she cried.

"It's alright. It wasn't yer fault, or any of yer friends in that manner. She was crazy, but am just glad we are home now." Big Mac admitted, feeling relieved, but not okay.

"Big Mac, why didn't you call me earlier?! Ah could have handled the situation myself!" Applejack asked, as she sat up on the couch.

"Hey, don't take it out on Big Mac! He was the one that protected us from them kiddie-fiddlers!" Apple Bloom yelled, feeling angry.

"Sugarcube?! Wha..."Applejack was not expecting at all what Apple Bloom said, and she saw Big Mac look away, as he got up to the kitchen. "Big Mac?!"

"Applejack! Stop!" Apple Bloom continued, as she was becoming even more unhinged.

"This has nothin to do with you!" Applejack stated.

"Yes it does, it has everythin to do with me! Because of you, ah have no one to protect me!" Apple Bloom yelled, as she ran up to her room, and slammed the door.

"Apple Bloom!" Applejack said, as it was too late to reach her. Applejack sighed.

6

Applejack walked into the kitchen to see Big Mac sitting down looking away from the door. She walked in, to see Big Mac feeling regretful of everything he had done, in which he felt like he knew it was going to come up eventually. But, after everything that happened, he just wanted it all to stop.

"Can ya believe this?!" Applejack yelled, not looking into Big Mac's state of regret. "Talk to me! Why is she all the sudden talking about that?! Huh?!" Applejack slammed herself into an argument, in which Big Mac didn't want. She raised her voice, and crossed her arms, hoping to get something out of him.

"I did what I had to." Big Mac admitted, feeling sick and tired emotionally.

"So what?! You threw me under the bus like that?! She blames me!!!" Applejack responded, as she waved her arms as she spoke.

"Am sorry sis, it was yer decision..." Big Mac said, making Applejack see his reasoning was her own request.

"You were in on it too!" Applejack slammed. "Makin me the bad guy when all ah wanted was to be there for her!"

"And it was, but after you decided to spend more time with Rarity... she's been alone..." Big Mac, about ready to just give up.

"Where are you then?!" Applejack placed her hands on her hips.

"Ah had to stay back to care for Granny Smith!"

"Granny Smith does not need that much care!"

"How can you say that?! She's old, she can barely remember what she had for breakfast this mornin!" Big Mac yelled, as he started to let it out.

"She's tough! She's fine! When you should be the one lookin out for Apple Bloom when am not around!" Applejack countered. Not giving any sense of herself at fault.

"No, Granny Smith does need me to be there for her! Ya wouldn't know because ya are always out with yer friends!!!" Big Mac admitted, out of his emotions becoming unhinged.

"How can you say that to me?! After all ah've done, ah practically save this world multiple times from danger!" Applejack boasted.

"That may be true, but by doing that, ya miss out on everything happenin at home!" Big Mac trying any last efforts to calm the situation.

"We wouldn't even have a home if it weren't for me!" Applejack brought down her best argument.

"She's been having trouble Applejack! She's been havin to go to the doctor multiple times this year! Ah just try to be there for her!!!" Big Mac yelled, finally letting out his anger. "When ya were here, it was a trade off between who's turn it is to work on the farm, clean up the house, and watch over Apple Bloom!!! But since you've left, you left me with everythin!!! Where is Granny Smith right now, Applejack?!!!

Applejack was stunned, she couldn't say a thing because she didn't realize. She stood silently, as Big Mac was crying.

"She at the hospital... she's been havin trouble with her heart... a-am worried!" Big Mac cried. "Am not mad that ya are in a relationship... it's just... ya chose friends over family... and ah can't always be there for Apple Bloom... ya know how upset she will be when she's gone?! Who has to deal with that?! It's been more difficult since you've taken the truck!!!" Big Mac continued, as his heart sank as did Applejack's. "Ya may have made a lot of sacrifices, but there's absolutely nothing left for me to have time... now am looked at as some sort of criminal! Because the whole world just can't seem to think am not capable of caring for my family!!!

"Big Mac a-ah... ah..." Applejack couldn't say anything, she was saddened by Big Mac. She never seen him this overstressed and miserable. It broke her seeing him fall into tears. The rarest moments was seeing each other cry, in which they hated.

"She's still a child... she doesn't get it... she's still fragile... and she needs us..." Big Mac continued, his voice was cracking. "Am sorry if she felt that way with ya... ya just weren't there like ya used to be. She's upset at herself for not saying she was happy for you, but she didn't know it was going to turn out this way.... she's just upset... she doesn't hate ya... ya know she won't..."

"Am so sorry Big Mac..." Applejack cried. "Why didn't ya tell me?"

"Ah figure ah could do it... part of a man's job is to provide... regardless... you've had yer hands full with Rarity... ah didn't want ya to bite off more than ya can chew..." Big Mac said, as he looked away from Applejack. Feeling ashamed, not being the man he needed to be.

Applejack cleared up her eyes, and took a seat next to Big Mac. He was not wanting to look in her direction. Applejack held out her arms and gave him a hug. She held him tight, and felt his sadness overflow. She calmed him down, but after everything he said, she felt that she was not helping in the slightest.

7

Meanwhile, Apple Bloom curled up in her bed. She overheard their argument, and she tried desperately to block it out, but she felt helpless. Her first encounter with a stranger was silent, stealthy even. But, the woman they encountered, she figured they only meant men were the ones that did stuff like that. However, even Apple Bloom couldn't feel any sympathy for that lady, as she turned against her older brother like that. Apple Bloom felt like she never wanted to leave the house ever again.

8

Applejack and Big Mac moved into the living room. Applejack received a text from Rarity, asking about where she was. They both sat down, as she ignored that text for now, to talk about what will be their next step in dealing with their current issues.

"What if we bring Apple Bloom to live with me an Rarity?" Applejack suggested, her voice was calm, slow and steady.

"What would Rarity say?" Big Mac questioned, as he would ask her first.

"She would be okay with it!" Applejack convinced, as Big Mac was unsure.

"Have ya asked?" Big Mac continued, and it made Applejack a little drawback, but she only thought of what was best for Apple Bloom.

"Look, she trusts me, and bringing in another will be alright. That way, she'll be safe and I'll watch over for her." Applejack suggested. "Ah just want her to be safe, and for you to not feel so overworked."

"Ah don't know... it's her choice." Big Mac responded, in which Applejack was not wanting to let go.

"What choice?! You said it yourself, she's a child. We make decisions for her, for her benefit of her safety and livelihood!"

"Ya know what, fine. You go tell her then."

"Ya know damn well she won't listen to me!" Applejack quietly yelled. "Not right now anyway."

"One way or another, we both will have to break it to her. She will only do it if we both believe it will be the right choice for her." Big Mac requested. To Applejack's surprise, he was right on point with that. If she went on her own, she will in no way be convincing enough for her.

"You're right." Applejack admitted. "We both will need to... Big Mac... about earlier..."

"It's alright Applejack, ah just want this day to be over, in all honesty." Big Mac admitted, having his face covered with his hand in wanting to just let this go.

"Ah know, and ah keep bringin it up, but ah am truly sorry. Ah guess ah just didn't see it, being with Rarity an all. Ah still feel bad about not being there when she went through a heat stroke. If anything were to happen to our baby..." Applejack cried. "An Granny..."

"Ah know..." Big Mac said, as he held her hand. "Am worried too." Applejack gripped tightly, remembering the strength they had to have, growing up to raise Apple Bloom.

9

It was a quiet evening. The darkness covered the skies, no rain, no wind, just the calmness, but even the calmness was worrisome.

Apple Bloom stood up, not sure of what to feel. Too exhausted to fall asleep, and unsure of how to go about the rest of the night. She laid in bed, not going to move a single inch, or closing her eyes for a second.

Not much later, Applejack and Big Mac walked inside, slow-like to not frightened her. Apple Bloom saw them walk in, only her pupils moved to the sight of movement from the door. Applejack turned on the light, and sat beside her. She placed her hand down to her head, and would lightly stroke her hair, to give a sense of comfort, but it only made Apple Bloom a little more irritated.

Apple Bloom got up, just to stop her from continuing to nonsensically comfort her. She didn't feel like being comforted.

"Apple Bloom, we have something we need to discuss." Applejack said calmly, as she knew Apple Bloom was still upset at her.

"Like what?" Apple Bloom said, her voice was deep and not wanting to talk. She looked away, trying to hide her face, just as they did.

"Well, we figured..." Applejack signaled for Big Mac to step in. He cautiously came to her side.

"How would ya feel about movin in with sis an Rarity?" Big Mac suggested. Apple Bloom's face lit up, and looked up at both of them.

"What?" Apple Bloom questioned. "Why would ah do that?"

"Because, we want ya to be safe, Apple Bloom!" Applejack argued.

"Am fine stayin here, with Big Mac an Granny!" Apple Bloom countered.

"Apple Bloom?" Big Mac questioned. "It will be okay, we both would like to just make sure you're safe."

"Ah am safe with you though!" Apple Bloom argued.

"Apple Bloom, this isn't up for debate." Applejack said. "Big Mac and ah believe this is what's best for ya."

"What?!" Apple Bloom yelled. "Is that true?!" Apple Bloom looked into Big Mac's eyes. He couldn't bear to see Apple Bloom upset, but he had to for both of them.

"It is." Big Mac said.

"Why can ah just stay home?" Apple Bloom complained.

"So ah can watch over for you." Applejack stated. "Ah can take you to school, pick ya up, and have time to spend with Sweetie Belle. You'll be fine!"

"But, what about Big Mac?" Apple Bloom continued, as she got up from her bed, and paced herself from the door to Applejack. "He needs my help!"

"Ah'll be fine." Big Mac assured.

"But, what about Granny?!" Apple Bloom kept thinking of ways to not leave.

"Apple Bloom, this is not your choice to make." Applejack said. "We both agreed."

"But, why?! Am fine bein' here!" Apple Bloom argued.

"It's not your decision to make!" Applejack yelled. Both of the girls were arguing. Big Mac was just tired of all the fighting, and had to lay down his foot on the wooden floor.

"Enough!" Big Mac yelled. "Enough with yer fightin,' am sick an tired of the both of ya!"

Applejack and Apple Bloom looked away from each other, and didn't say anything.

"Look, it is gettin late." Big Mac admitted, feeling too tired to carry this any further. "Can we just, figure it all out tomorrow?"

"Big Mac?!" Applejack interjected. Not looking too pleased with that answer.

"Am serious sis, ah am tired." Big Mac admitted, feeling his emotional state deteriorate. Giving his last efforts. "Please?"

"Fine." Applejack said, as she looked down, and she looked at Apple Bloom, who was also tired and miserable, but she had a smug look on her face, which Applejack was not pleased to see. She rolled her eyes.

10

Later that evening, Applejack received a call from Rarity. She walked out into the barn, she reminisce the old days when she would be there for them, helping with the animals, smashing apples into cider, and rolling in hay stacks. She smiled, as she took the call.

R: Darling, where are you?! Why haven't you called or texted back?!
A: Am sorry, ah got caught up in a family matter...
R: I know, Sweetie Belle told me everything that's happened earlier!
A: She did... great!
R: Listen, I know... I understand, but please tell me when you are going to include me!
A: Sorry babe, it's personal.
R: Excuse me?! What did we both say about that?!
A: Ah know, ah know! It's just... it's complicated.
R: And?
A: Ah don't want to bring ya into this because there's a lot ya already have to deal with. Just a heads up that am bringin Apple Bloom to live with us.
R: Apple Bloom? Why? Not that am not willing, it's just for why?
A: Ah'll have to tell ya later.
R: Don't hang up on me! Are not coming back?!
A: Not until we figure this out.
R: Applejack?!
A: Goodnight darlin.
R: Appleja-

Applejack ended the call, and was exhausted. Applejack got up, and walked up to her old room. It was left untouched as the dust particles rested on her dresser. She left it as it were. She laid on the bed, and was just as firm and broken as before. But, it's been awhile since she laid by herself, as she took one glance to the side of her. Rarity always laid on the right, and with her on the left. But, it was just her, on a small mattress. She looked to the side of her, and it was an empty wall, with no one laying by her side.

She felt bad for leaving Rarity out of this, but she was stubborn and didn't want more drama dumped on her. It's bad enough having to face her family and their unwillingness to let Rarity be with someone she loves. But, this was a matter Applejack thought she could handle on her own.

11

Just as it got closer to midnight, Apple Bloom snuck out of her bedroom again. She was afraid to sleep alone again, and with all the frustrations of the day, she just needed to rest.

She went into a room, and crawled her way into the bed. She felt the similar presence the day before, and just laid still.

Big Mac turned around, and saw that Apple Bloom was once again at his side. Even though Apple Bloom chose to stay with him, he was not in the mood to celebrate that fact. Since she was in there with him, he was silent. The pain he felt all throughout the night, he couldn't get out, as it would upset her as well. Big Mac turned away from her, and tried to silently let out his tears. He would sometimes have a feeling in his throat, and some of his snot filling up in his nostrils, but he did nothing about it besides clear it up without suspicion. He figured Apple Bloom had already been through a lot today, so he remained silent.

12

Meanwhile, Rarity stood up, punching the pillow next to her's, where Applejack would lay her head. Not being involved in their matter was pissing her off, because after all they've been through, why does she continue to be selfish? Rarity thought to herself. She stopped, and hugged the pillow, as she couldn't bear to sleep alone. For some reason, it felt... colder without her. Empty even. Having to sleep in the darkness alone.

"Tomorrow, she's going to get it!" Rarity determined.

Chapter 4: Unforgiven

Chapter 4: Unforgiven

1

There was a knock at the front door of the Apple residence. It continued. To the point the knocker became desperate and annoyed with no one coming to open the door. Big Mac dropped down the stairs as he barely got up from his bedroom. Somehow, he barely managed to hear the knocker, and was the only one up to know.

Big Mac opened it up, and it appeared that Rarity was at the door. She was dressed as some sort of Babushka woman with a pair of sunglasses and a decorated scarf that covered her hair. Big Mac opened the door wide enough to let her walk in.

"Big Mac?" Rarity asked, as she stepped through into the living room. "Where's Applejack?!" Rarity took a seat at the couch, but her tone was fierce. She crossed her legs, and sat up straight waiting for Big Mac to wake up.

"Am sorry to keep ya waiting..." Big Mac said, keeping a low tempo to avoid the others from knowing. He sat on the couch, he sat a seat away just to keep the distance.

"That's quite alright." Rarity said, as she settled down and took off her glasses. "So, what's been happening?"

Big Mac told her the story, and how Applejack wanted Apple Bloom to move in with them to give them some space and protection. Rarity was a little surprised by how quickly things erupted from a small mishap weeks ago.

"I see." Rarity commented, as she was saddened by Big Mac's dilemma. "And you're alright with that?"

"Yeah, it's just gettin Apple Bloom used to the idea, but how are ya feelin about it." Big Mac asked.

"I will be alright with it, in all honesty." Rarity admitted. "Are you?"

"Ah think." Big Mac was unsure of how it will be. He also told her about Granny Smith. Rarity was starting to feel the amount of pressure that was on Big Mac's shoulders, which made her sympathetic.

"I apologize, if I was a bit selfish with Applejack. I didn't realize how much she actually had to do on a daily basis." Rarity said sincerely, as she pouted, feeling guilty even.

"That's alright. Am just glad she's happy. Ah believe it happens in most relationships." Big Mac said, he smiled which made Rarity smile as well. "Especially with all the drama happenin between yer family..." Rarity's smile went away, as she was reminded of it.

"I'm afraid you've touched a nerve." Rarity said, as she ran her hand through her hair. However, the thought of it made her miss a step about something. "Wait, how did you know about that?!"

"Oh, am sorry, but ah overheard Sweetie Belle talkin with Scootaloo when they were over the night before." Big Mac admitted, as he was scratching his head.

"Oh that girl!" Rarity scoffed. "I'm afraid there has been tension with my side of the family as well. I highly doubt it will get resolved any time soon!"

"Ah see." Big Mac nodded his head in agreement. "Hard everywhere, huh?"

"Indeed." Rarity said with a smile. They both were silent for a few moments.

"Ah got to ask... why the scarf an glasses?" Big Mac asked, as it was unusual to see Rarity wanting to be hidden for some reason.

"I didn't feel like getting dressed or fixed up today, so I wore this, to kind of... not be seen." Rarity admitted.

"Really?" To Big Mac's surprise, because she still looked like she did. "Ah can't tell, if am bein' honest."

"Thanks. If I had to blame for my laziness it would be Applejack's." Rarity chuckled. Big Mac chuckled as well, it seems after moving away, Applejack started to get a little more lazy. No wonder she feels off her game. Big Mac thought.

Moments later, Applejack came from upstairs, and she stopped once she saw Rarity sitting on the couch with Big Mac. She was stunned, unable to move a muscle.

"R-Rarity?!" Applejack questioned. Big Mac looked away, as she walked toward the living room. "What are ya doing here?!"

"I was just about to ask you the same thing, but Big Mac had already told me everything!" Rarity said, as she pointed at him. He tried not to be seen. Applejack flared up inside, ready to combust into flames. She couldn't think of what to do. "Come, sit." Rarity suggested, in which Applejack came to sit between Big Mac and Rarity. Her attitude showed when she slammed herself into the couch, making it scoot back a couple of inches.

"Ah better go... check on Apple Bloom..." Big Mac whispered under his breath. Applejack grabbed his arm and twisted it as he got up, making him sit back down. She looked at him, he couldn't feel his arm and saw her eyes, they were filled with anger which he could not describe.

"Applejack?" Rarity said softly. She looked at her, and saw that she was not happy.

"What are you doin here?" Applejack asked. Her tone was the sound of annoyance. Which Rarity was not dealing with.

"I'm here for you, obviously!" Rarity puffed, crossing her legs again, and sat up some more in an uncomfortable stance. "Keeping things from me won't do! I'm afraid I know everything!" Applejack grunted, and she did not let go of Big Mac's arm.

"Ah didn't want ya to know!" Applejack countered.

"Why?!" Rarity argued. "You agreed that we would make every problem our problem!"

"Ah was going to tell ya myself!" Applejack yelled, as she crossed her arms and closed her eyes in disgust. Big Mac looked at his arm, the fist clenched his arm so much it left a red mark on him. He felt numb. "After ah get Apple Bloom to come with us!"

"Well, from what I heard, she seems reluctant to move." Rarity pointed out. "And calm down, darling. I know you're a little upset, but you don't have to raise your voice at me!"

"Am upset, because ya don't trust me!" Applejack blurted out. Big Mac was taking in deep breaths and letting them out slowly, feeling how awkward it was to be in the same room.

"I do trust you, but I didn't know what to expect after last night!" Rarity replied. "Besides, don't you think that Apple Bloom would feel a little better if I was involved, letting her know that I'm okay with her coming along with us? I can be quite persuasive."

"Fine." Applejack said, she still had a bit of a temper in her voice as she got up from the couch. "Let's just get Apple Bloom and go!"

"Alright." Rarity responded, she rolled her eyes as she got up from the couch. She pointed her finger at her. "She won't be convinced if you have an attitude!" Rarity crossed her arms, as Applejack looked at her with a mean look, but Rarity was smug and knew she was right.

2

Apple Bloom was still asleep. Even when Big Mac got up for the door, she didn't awake. She went to sleep late in the morning, all the thoughts and feelings running through her head made her restless. That woman, she thought, was horrible to her, to her brother, and her friends. She thought it was her first test to prove herself if she was capable of helping those in need, but the woman was not seeking help, she was trying to put Big Mac in jail. Maybe they all were right? Maybe it was just a stupid idea? Helping someone as deranged as her was impossible. Apple Bloom thought. Even when she pleaded, she was weak against her, her emotions were array and couldn't focus on the pressures they felt. Nothing more she could have done for that woman.

It was around the time for the sun to rise up, and Apple Bloom saw the light in the distance. She realized she wasn't asleep yet, so she closed her eyes and tried. Just the thought of trying to sleep was difficult. Even with Big Mac at her side, she couldn't feel that comforted feeling like before. If only Granny was here... she thought.

Somehow, she managed to sleep, but that was when Applejack and the other's showed up in the room.

"Apple Bloom!" Applejack yelled, as they all walked into the room. Applejack was already feeling salty about the fact that Apple Bloom was resting in Big Mac's room, as if she wanted to prove a point to her without realizing it. "Get up!"

"Applejack... calmly." Rarity whispered, as she was getting sick of her attitude. Applejack rolled her eyes. Big Mac was there just to see if they could actually make Apple Bloom move out of bed.

Apple Bloom got up, and was irritated. Her hair was in her face, and she was sweating almost as much as Big Mac. She squinted, and didn't want to deal with whatever they wanted her to do besides sleep.

"Apple Bloom, darling." Rarity said softly, as Apple Bloom sat up to hear a familiar, yet different voice in the room. She looked up and saw Rarity, she sat beside her. "How are you feeling?"

"Tired." Apple Bloom words were cold and raspy, as she let out a loud yawn. "What are ya doin here Rarity? Are ya tryin to convince me too?"

"Well, I did come to let you know that I'm delighted to let you stay with us!" Rarity enlightened. "Even Sweetie Belle would be excited to have a roommate!"

"She would?" Apple Bloom eyes widened, as her voice cleared up. "But, ah thought she would be upset?"

"Sweetheart, why would she be upset?" Rarity asked.

"After yesterday..."

"She's not upset at all, dear. She actually was feeling a little lonely." Rarity interrupted, but continued to speak at a higher register. It was comforting to Apple Bloom, like she was being taken under her wing for guidance. "She would like to have someone there with her too, you know? Have someone to talk to, or someone to play around with, like how you have your sleepovers."

"Ah suppose so." Apple Bloom said. "Big Mac wouldn't be upset at me, right?"

"Of course not." Rarity said. "Right, Big Mac?"

"Like ah said, ah want ya to be safe." Big Mac assured. "Ah trust yer friends, remember?"

Apple Bloom looked up at Big Mac, then to Rarity. But after she saw Applejack, not looking like she wanted to be there. She became aware of their little scheme.

"But... ah already made my decision." Apple Bloom raised her voice. "Ah want to stay home with Big Mac an Granny!"

Rarity blinked her eyes and was shocked that her charm and charisma was not working, Big Mac was surprised that Apple Bloom didn't try to reconsider. Applejack just about had it. She pushed the other two out the door.

"Am gonna need a minute." Applejack demanded, her tone was calm, but from her closing the door behind Big Mac and Rarity, this was not going to turn out well. They thought. They held their ears up to the door to listen in.

3

"Apple Bloom!" Applejack yelled, as she walked up to the bed. Apple Bloom hid under the blankets to avoid her. She snatched the blankets away, and Apple Bloom hid under the pillows. She grabbed them, but Apple Bloom had a tough grip. Applejack yanked it away from her, slightly ripping it. Apple Bloom felt the anger in Applejack's eyes, and the cotton burned her fingers as it was ripped away from her. "Apple Bloom! You're leaving with us, an that's the end of it!"

"No!" Apple Bloom argued. "Ah want to stay here with Big Mac an Granny!"

"You don't get to say anything!" Applejack said, as she was wrestling with Apple Bloom from an emotional standpoint.

"Ah don't care what ya say, am stayin!" Apple Bloom responded.

"You are just a child!" Applejack continued. "Am the one who is takin care of ya, it's been that way since!"

"Since what?!" Apple Bloom asked rhetorically. "Since mom an dad!"

"Don't you dare, bring them into this!" Applejack yelled. "Yer my responsibility!"

"Granny is the one takin care of us, not you!" Apple Bloom fought with her, and she brought up somethings that Applejack was starting to lose control in. "You wouldn't know, 'cause yer not here anymore!"

"Am here now! An am tryin to make it easier for ya!" Applejack argued.

"No Applejack! Just stop!" To Applejack's surprise, she was taking over the conversation. "Why Applejack?!!"

"Why what?!" Applejack replied.

"Am confused!!!" Apple Bloom admitted. "Ah don't know anymore!!!"

"What?" Applejack stopped, and listened.

"Everythin ya told me, or didn't tell me... it ruined everythin!!!" Apple Bloom yelled, and it echoed into Applejack's eardrums, which made her aggression stop almost instantly. "Because of you... ah-ah can't sleep at night! Am afraid to walk outside the door! Just why did you try to hide it from me!"

"Sweetheart..." Applejack began to cry. "Ah just wanted to protect you... ah didn't want ya to worry... nor be thinkin you were in any danger... because ah was there for you..." Her tears sprinkled down, and she felt her heart shrunk.

"You're not anymore..." Apple Bloom cried. "Yer tryin to make up for it, ah understand... but ah don't wanna leave! Ya should have just told me! Ah would have at least known... Big Mac said that it's better to know than to walk out blind!"

"Sugar... ah trusted you..." Applejack cried.

"Now ah can't trust anyone!" Apple Bloom concluded.

"Apple Bloom! Please... you can trust me... a-am your big sis..." Applejack tried her last effort to earn her trust.

"Am sorry... ah can't. Ah still love you... am happy for you an Rarity... but ah don't think ah can..." Apple Bloom cried.

4

Big Mac and Rarity still had their ears at the door, they couldn't hear a thing other than the thumping of Applejack's heels on the carpet.

"Well... ya gave it yer best Rarity..." Big Mac admitted in a whisper.

"Yeah... I'm just worried about what comes next..." Rarity replied.

The door opened, and they both stood straight, trying to not look suspicious. Applejack was the only one to walk out, and she briskly walked down the stairs. She had her hat, laying low to not see her face as she walked past. But, Rarity heard a faint "let's go" from Applejack. Rarity didn't even try to question it, and just walked down with her. Big Mac was confused about the two of them leaving without Apple Bloom. The last thing he saw was Applejack throwing something on the floor before she left out the door.

He went down to pick it up, and it was the keys to the truck.

5

"Applejack..." Rarity gasped, as she walked down the street, a few feet away from her. She didn't take the truck like she would, and just left it parked in the barn. Applejack kept her pace all the way to Rarity's house. Rarity was slower, having to walk in sandals all the way there was making the rubber rub against her toes, which was burning within each step.

Applejack walked through the door, and didn't stop until she reached their bedroom. Rarity barely came in, and shut the door.

She walked over to their bedroom, and Applejack immediately launched herself onto her, as if she was unable to walk, hanging down by her waist. She was dripping with sweat and tears, completely drenched. She threw off her hat to the closet doors. Rarity was able to see her. She couldn't stop crying. She was saying something under her breath, and Rarity went down to hold her closer.

She brought her up to her shoulders, it was difficult as Applejack was going limp. Applejack held herself up, but fell down to her waist again.

"Applejack... what happened?!" Rarity asked, as she was beginning to tear up, seeing how broken Applejack was. The pain in her body was unable to lift Applejack up, she didn't have the strength.

"She hates me... she hates me..." Applejack cried, unable to speak clearly, with the guilt filling her throat, and snot was gushing out. She didn't think she was ever going to see Applejack cry as much as she did when they had their recent fallout. She just kept muttering the words 'she hates me,' Apple Bloom said something to her that broke her heart. After not being able to go back, after not being accepted, and her not regaining trust with anyone they love, was crashing down everything they had tried to make their relationship seem meaningful. Rarity sat with her holding her close, and tried to regain control of the situation. But, nothing worked... nothing ever worked for them.

6

Big Mac entered his room, and Apple Bloom sat at the edge of the bed. Looking tired, frizzled, her eyes were red, and looked like she regretted anything she could have said to make Applejack leave without another word.

"Apple Bloom?" Big Mac asked. "What happened...?"

Apple Bloom silently looked up at him. She got up to hug Big Mac, her grip was tight even though she was exhausted. She started to cry again. Big Mac was unsure of how to take it, but he would try to not let Apple Bloom down with her decision to stay. He worried for Applejack, and assumed she would not want to talk over the phone about anything else, considering she gave up the truck.

Rarity was right about worrying of what may come next? Big Mac thought.

Chapter 5: The Calm Before The Storm

Chapter 5: The (Somewhat) Calm Before The Storm

1

The same morning Rarity left to visit the Apple Family, Sweetie Belle left the house to visit someone. Unlike poor Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle was well aware of the dangers outside her home. She would look around everywhere before she stepped out into the streets, always looking both ways of the roads, and staying away from uncommon areas where there would be numerous people in the way of walking right into danger.

Sweetie Belle wore her favorite white dress, and matching boots. It went well with her hair, with a shining belt buckle at her waist to match the headband. She never missed an opportunity to dress to impress.

The place she was destined was not far, which made things easier to make it back home whenever she had to get back. She went out multiple times, even having been grounded from leaving the house, or whenever her older sister and Applejack were having sex. She needed a place to cool off, and to get away from the annoying climatic adventure Rarity was having. Whenever time was of the essence, she would usually make it back in time before anyone became suspicious.

She arrived at her destination. A little runned down shack, just a couple blocks away from Canterlot High, the Crusaders' Clubhouse. She entered, and closed the door. She looked out to make sure she wasn't followed. The coast was clear, and she looked around inside. The club was unlit, so she was probably a little early.

Sweetie Belle turned on the lights, and took a seat down at the table. She waited for a little while, but there was still no sign of her. She went to the small mini-fridge right by a bookshelf near the door. As she got up, and opened the fridge, she immediately jumped, falling onto the floor. She looked up as she screamed, and Scootaloo appeared before her, chuckling as she got up.

"Dammit, Scootaloo!" Sweetie Belle yelled, as she got up, catching her breath. There was still slight pain in her back, having been tense before, after sleeping on haystacks. "I thought I said to stop jumpscaring me like that!"

"C'mon, it was funny!" Scootaloo chuckled. "Besides, it was about time you showed up! I was about to head out due to boredom!" Scootaloo took a seat, putting her feet up on the table. She wore almost the same clothes as last time, heavy jacket, cargo pants, and her brown boots. Sweetie Belle contemplates how often she actually changes, she just always wore the same things, no sense of style, she thought.

"How many times do I have to say... I'm grounded!" Sweetie Belle said sarcastically. "I had to leave, whenever my sister does, or when she's busy!"

"Yeah, yeah." Scootaloo yawned. "So, how long are you able to be here?"

"Honestly, not long enough..." Sweetie Belle admitted, as she stood up, exhausted even, but didn't want to sit. "So, let's just get right into it."

"That's what she said!" Scootaloo chuckled, directly to the reader. Sweetie Belle was looking at her with embarrassment. "Right, so, what are we going to do about Apple Bloom?!" Scootaloo asked. "It's exhausting having to put up with this... it's not our responsibility!"

"Hey, you know just as well as I, that we agreed to help her through any sort of problem!" Sweetie Belle demanded. "It's not my fault you ask the wrong questions! Or care what you say!"

"That's a load of bull! I do care! I just don't like that we have to always be careful, why not say something genuine for once!" Scootaloo yelled, as she stood up to face Sweetie Belle.

"She's too precious and you know it!" Sweetie Belle countered. "You saw how she was, she is traumatized now because of us!" Sweetie Belle began to tear up. She took a seat, as Scootaloo looked away, feeling guilty to Sweetie Belle's emotions going crazy.

"Alright. You're right, it is our fault..." Scootaloo took a seat next to her. Sweetie Belle looked down to the wooden floors, and was sniffing down disgusting mucus in her nostrils. She placed her hand on her shoulder, but Sweetie Belle took her in for a hug. Scootaloo was not into physical contact, but she looked like she needed it. "She is suspicious of us now, right?"

"I know..." Sweetie Belle lifted her head up, and remembered something about earlier, as she wiped her eyes. "I still don't appreciate you calling me high maintenance!"

"C'mon Sweetie Belle... it was just to get Apple Bloom off our case!" Scootaloo admitted. Always so salty, Scootaloo thought.

"Well, it didn't work... did it?!" Sweetie Belle argued. Scootaloo rolled her eyes.

"Fine. I'm sorry about that!" Scootaloo countered. "You always have to be so sensitive!"

"You know what?! If you don't stop it with this attitude, I'm going to leave!" Sweetie Belle responded.

"What?! No!" Scootaloo got up from the table, and stood up to face her directly. "You just got here!" Scootaloo began to beg and tear up as well. Sweetie Belle immediately regretted saying that to her.

"Come here." Sweetie Belle held up her arms, asking her to sit back down with her. Scootaloo wiped her eyes, and sat with her. She sat closer, she leaned unto her like a frightened child. "I'm sorry, but sometimes, I just want you to be emotionally in agreement with me."

"I am... I just don't like it when you say stuff like that." Scootaloo cried. "You know I don't like getting all mushy... why can't we just have fun like always..." Scootaloo pouted, crossing her arms, as she leaned onto Sweetie Belle's thighs, giving her comfort. She was slowly caressing her short purple hair.

"Things are changing Scootaloo... it's not child-like wonder anymore, it's time we start getting serious with things. We can't afford to either, now that Apple Bloom's spirits are being crushed by the dangers of the world... we can't let her get too far... you wouldn't want that, right?"

"I don't want her to suffer, but there's nothing we can do if she finds out about stuff." Scootaloo admitted. "I just... I would like for us to not worry about it. As long as we do what we can for each other, and help others too, then I don't see why we can't just ease up on the heavy stuff!"

"That's why we need you... I need you." Sweetie Belle said, as she wrapped her arms around her head. "You eliminate a lot of pressure and terror we face for just seeing the bright side. If it were only Apple Bloom and me, we would fall and not know what to do. But, you... you always helped us to calm down and think things through... I couldn't have made it past this week if it weren't for you. With my annoying sister and shit."

"Yeah... thanks..." Scootaloo said sincerely, as she blushed, and tried to ignore Sweetie Belle's glowing jade eyes. "What are going to do when she finds out about us? Are we just going to come forward with it?"

"I'm debating on that." Sweetie Belle said with a sigh.

"Why did we keep it a secret again?" Scootaloo asked, as she sat up from the table. Sweetie Belle positioned herself a little more comfortably.

"We were uncertain how she will be, when we both start seeing each other. She knows we talk about things without her. I don't want her to feel left out, but anything with her might just receive a message in one ear and out the other. I'm already in trouble with Rarity, just simply because she heard me cursing!" Sweetie Belle admitted. "I'm already sick of her and her constant need for intimacy from Applejack! It's like living with a bunch of rabbits!"

Scootaloo started to chuckle. She stopped when she saw Sweetie Belle look at her with a serious look on her face. Sweetie Belle started laughing, and Scootaloo joined in with her.

"I see..." Scootaloo agreed. "What about us?"

Sweetie Belle was shocked to hear Scootaloo say something of that sort.

"W-what do you mean?" Sweetie Belle asked nervously, as she blushed.

"Well, we have been together for a little while, right?" Scootaloo blushed, but she was looking at her with narrow bedroom eyes, which made Sweetie Belle heat up. "I mean... we haven't even kissed..."

"Oh..." Sweetie Belle determined. "I suppose that's true..." Sweetie Belle was relieved, and just started moving a bit closer.

"Honestly... I don't feel ready for... you know..." Scootaloo admitted. "Definitely put a hold on that!"

"Oh, in that case." Sweetie Belle was more relieved, and just sat next to Scootaloo.

They both looked into each other's eyes, and slowly started gravitating closer. They were slow, and steady. Both of their cheeks glowed red, and their hearts started to skip a beat. They both puckered their lips, and closed their eyes. As they came into contact, they realized they missed. Scootaloo ended up kissing Sweetie Belle's right eye, and got an eyelash stuck in her mouth. Sweetie Belle missed her skin entirely, and started laughing at Scootaloo trying to spit out an eyelash that was on her tongue.

Scootaloo got the eyelash out, and just launched into her. Their lips met, and asked for this experience to be one to remember. They both lifted their heads away from each other, and they looked away. Taking in their first.

"That was..." Sweetie Belle couldn't find the words, she was heated up so much.

"Awesome!" Scootaloo looked at her, and in her eyes they were jumping for joy. "I have to admit something though..."

"What?! Was I a terrible kisser?!" Sweetie Belle questioned.

"No..." Scootaloo said. "You're great! I just wished... I brushed my teeth..." Scootaloo said, under her breath.

"Gross!!!" Sweetie Belle yelled. "Go brush your teeth right now!!!"

"Seriously?!" Scootaloo questioned sarcastically.

"Go! Or else that first kiss will be your last!" Sweetie Belle demanded.

"Fine!" Scootaloo got up, and headed for the sink. As she did that, Sweetie Belle put on some lip balm and gloss.

Scootaloo came back after two minutes, and requested they continue where they left off. They went in for another one. Scootaloo was immediately turned off by Sweetie Belle's moist lips. She took her face away from her's, and sat away from her.

"What?!" Sweetie Belle questioned.

"Did you just put lipstick on?!" Scootaloo asked, as she crossed her arms, and put one leg up to signify being pissed off. She was wiping her lips.

"It's just lip balm!" Sweetie Belle argued. "Quit being a mood killer!"

"No!" Scootaloo snapped her eyes at her, which Sweetie Belle took a small handkerchief from the table and wiped it off.

"There!" Sweetie Belle yelled. "Now c'mon!"

Scootaloo stuck her tongue out and gave her a raspberry, and continued to sulk.

"How do you think I feel?! Not cleaning your teeth?!" Sweetie Belle argued. "Nasty!"

"Well sorry... I wasn't expecting to kiss anyone anytime soon!" Scootaloo admitted sarcastically. Sweetie Belle took it the other way.

"You didn't..." Sweetie Belle cried. Scootaloo looked at her, as she was taking it the wrong way.

"You knew what I meant!" Scootaloo told her.

"Well, get over here and make me feel better!" Sweetie Belle demanded.

"Fine." Scootaloo said, as she scooted closer to her, and started it again. "Okay, let's just say... I will start brushing my teeth from now on."

"Good." Sweetie Belle said. "You need to have a better schedule. I've been to your place and it's a mess! If it weren't for me, your auntie would expire!"

"Okay, fine. I'll do what you say." Scootaloo responded. "Thanks for helping me by the way."

"It's what I do!" Sweetie Belle said, with a smug face. "Now, for being such a good girl, I have a present for you!"

"What?" Scootaloo lightened up. "Really?!"

"Viola!" Sweetie Belle said, as she held up another lip balm.

"Seriously?! You're not going to make me wear it, right?!" Scootaloo pouted.

"No, you will have to apply it with my lips!" Sweetie Belle said.

"But..." Scootaloo continued.

"Don't be pouty, look..." Sweetie Belle held it up, and it was her favorite flavor of soda.

"Cherry cola?" Scootaloo questioned.

"Yep, now..." Sweetie Belle put it on her lips, and Scootaloo could smell the beautiful blend of crushed artificial cherries within an ice cold cola. "Thirsty?" Sweetie Belle narrowed her eyes with her ruby lips.

"Parched." Scootaloo admitted.

2

They both laid on the table together, their feet down on the chairs. They both were talking to each other, feeling relieved to be together.

"What if we ran away together?" Sweetie Belle suggested, turning over to look at her, the sensitivity and the love they felt made her want to share anything that was on her mind.

"I wouldn't mind, honestly." Scootaloo said, as she looked up at the ceiling. "There's not really much of anything here, besides Rainbow Dash, but she's been too busy."

"I suppose we'd just make the same mistakes that our sisters are doing, right?" Sweetie Belle asked, she turned to face the ceiling.

"It's not that bad, I just hope we actually make better choices than them." Scootaloo admitted. "We'll take Apple Bloom with us, right?"

"Of course!" Sweetie Belle delighted. "It wouldn't be the Crusaders without her!"

"Yeah, I guess you're right!" Scootaloo smiled. "By the way..." Scootaloo said, as she turned toward Sweetie Belle, they both faced each other. "I've been seeing you eyeing Big Mac, what's up with that?!"

"What?! He's kind of cute!" Sweetie Belle admitted. "Are you jealous?"

"No!" Scootaloo yelled, as she blushed. Looking back up at the ceiling, trying to avoid eye contact.

"Look, it just... his eyes are kinda dreamy." Sweetie Belle said. "But, you know he's too old!"

"Sure. Whatever." Scootaloo said, as she started to sulk again.

"Hey, it's okay." Sweetie Belle said calmly. "I heard Apple Bloom say he sweats a lot... that's a no for me, honestly."

"Really?" Scootaloo's head perked up, sitting up. "We should try setting him up with someone!"

"Like who?" Sweetie Belle asked. She sat up as well.

"I don't know... Ms. Cheerilee or someone?" Scootaloo asked.

"That actually sounds cute!" Sweetie Belle delighted. "Definitely fanfic material right there!" Sweetie Belle blushed at the idea of it.

"You and your stupid shipping fanfics!" Scootaloo teased, as she slightly pushed her away.

"Hey, don't you dare insult shipping in my presence!" Sweetie Belle yelled, as she booped her nose.

"Whatever!" Scootaloo snapped her eyes at her again, as she lightly chuckled and looked away.

3

Sweetie Belle heard her phone rang, and it appeared she received a text message.

"Dammit!" Sweetie Belle yelled. Scootaloo faced Sweetie Belle, and saw the worried look on her face. "It's Rarity! She seems pissed." Sweetie Belle sighed, and Scootaloo looked down at the floor.

"It's fine." Scootaloo said, as she stood up to the floor. "Need me to walk you back home?" Scootaloo looked back up at Sweetie Belle.

"No, I just have to book it." Sweetie Belle said, as she tucked her phone away.

"Okay..." Scootaloo was saddened they had to go their separate ways again.

"I'll call you, okay?" Sweetie Belle said, as she held up her hand to Scootaloo's face. Scootaloo gave a passive smile. She smiled back. She went up to hug her, and gave her a peck on the lips.

"Alrighty then, be on your way!" Scootaloo suggested with a weak smile. Sweetie Belle was at the door, and before she left, she threw her lip balm at Scootaloo.

"Keep it for me!" Sweetie Belle suggested, as she winked.

"Sure?" Scootaloo looked at it, and was not necessarily too thrilled to have it.

4

Sweetie Belle ran the entire way back, hopefully being able to get back to her room without suspicion.

She climbed all the way up to the window, and accidently dropped in. She was still feeling the pain in her back, and couldn't balance well on the window sill. She dropped, and slammed herself on the bed. There was a bit of noise, as she sat up. But as she did, she looked up at the sight of Rarity in her room.

"Shit..." Sweetie Belle said, under breath as she got up to face the music.

"Where were you?!" Rarity yelled. "Do you have any idea what being grounded means?!" Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes, and tried to ignore her. "Well?!"

"Sorry." Sweetie Belle said sarcastically, as she sat down on her bed. She sighed, and was deliberately trying to ignore her.

"I'm not in the mood to deal with your rebellious attitude!" Rarity scoffed, as she crossed her arms. "You are not allowed out, plain and simple!"

"You know what?!" Sweetie Belle stood up to her, and looked at her dead in the eyes. "When are you in the mood for anything?! You ignore me, you act like this relationship doesn't affect me, it does! Basically do nothing but have your way almost every single day!"

"How dare you!" Rarity was shocked to hear Sweetie Belle talk back to her. "Why didn't you say anything then?!"

"Like you're going to listen to me!" Sweetie Belle sat back down. "It's not like telling you is going to fix anything!"

"You're right... nothing will..." Rarity cried, holding her hands up to her face. Sweetie Belle would always have to deal with Rarity crying a lot, but this time it was genuine, and not something about her fashion or make-up. She stormed out, and shut the door. Sweetie Belle was regretting her words, and laid back down.

5

Scootaloo was walking back home slowly. She was kicking a rock the entire way, always the same boring, empty home. Whenever Sweetie Belle came, she would always brighten up the place, help her clean it up before her auntie would arrive back to check on her.

Her auntie was mainly taking care of Scootaloo, she would check in with Scootaloo every month to make sure she was good on supplies, and to give her some form of parental guidance. But, it was only for a couple days until she had to head back to the university. She was studying an extremely time consuming field in college, and working for a power plant on the outskirts of Canterlot City called "Umbra Corp."

Scootaloo didn't hate her, she actually respected everything she was doing, but it was just the loneliness that would make it seem like she resented her. Her auntie was kind, loyal, and was hoping to get through with studies so she can finally be home, but times were tough, since she wasn't exactly the brightest of the bright minds in college. She had ambition, and that always made Scootaloo keep her head up, even when things seemed bad.

However, Rainbow Dash would often take away the loneliness, but after being in a relationship with Fluttershy, they started to drift apart too. That's why she liked Sweetie Belle. They both felt out of place, overshadowed by most even with the Rainbooms, having to deal with their older peers and their drama. Together, they felt like everything they had to deal with disappeared, and with Apple Bloom making things seem less dark and scary, made everything seem joyous. Their willingness to help others, together could accomplish anything.

As Scootaloo continued to walk, she came to her front door. She took out her keys, and she heard a phone call before she placed the key into the keyhole.

"Big Mac?" Scootaloo questioned, as she held up the phone to her ear.

S: Hey, what's up?!
BM: Hey! Ah need ya to get Applejack for me!
S: What?! What's happening?!
BM: It's Apple Bloom! She is going crazy! Ah need ya help!

Chapter 6: Heart

Chapter 6: Heart

1

One decision a few weeks ago, caused so much travesty. A world full of bad decisions, sometimes under circumstances, sometimes for thrills. More or less, we all don't know the full weight of our decisions. The same goes for good decisions. It can make someone's day, helping them succeed, achieve, and be awarded for being alive and well today. These are the most memorable of all.

2

Apple Bloom was not well rested, and could not shut her eyes for a second of all that she said before. Big Mac decided to leave the room, thinking of what to do. Upon leaving the room, Apple Bloom was clinging onto Big Mac like a leech.

"Apple Bloom?" Big Mac asked, as he looked down at her, holding onto his arm. "What are ya doin?"

"Ah can't let go." Apple Bloom admitted, looking up at him with her saddened eyes. She looked too exhausted, and miserable that he couldn't look away. "Ah don't want ya to leave me."

"Am not goin to leave ya." Big Mac enlightened. "But, ya need rest."

She looked down at the wooden floor, and shook her head. Big Mac saw that she was resorting to her extreme child-like behaviors. She would often do that whenever there was an argument, or whenever there was conflict she didn't want to deal with. Unfortunately, there was nothing he could do, besides let her come along wherever he went. It wasn't the way most teenagers should cope, but it was what she could manage at the time.

3

As Big Mac continued the day, she stuck right by him. She stopped holding onto him, and just stood at his side. There wasn't much to do, so they spent the majority of the time watching TV. They didn't plan anything for dinner, so Big Mac thought something that was easily done. He wasn't skilled in cooking, and he couldn't ask for Apple Bloom's help given her mental state.

He went into the kitchen, and heated up the oven. He didn't see Apple Bloom walk in the kitchen with him, so he assumed that she was finally resting on the couch. However, as he placed food in the oven after it was preheating, he turned around, and saw her standing right behind him. Big Mac jumped seeing how silent she was, no sound of her breathing or hearing her walking along the floor. He was unsure of how to take this situation, it was something he never dealt with before.

"Apple Bloom?" Big Mac asked calmly and with concern. "Are ya okay?"

Apple Bloom smiled, and nodded. However, her eyes never changed. They were still watery, bloodshot, and overly tired. The eyelids were darkened, and about ready to collapse. Big Mac sighed, and continued on the rest of the evening, making sure he kept an eye on the food.

Luckily, the food was cooked quickly, and they both sat down at the kitchen table to eat. Apple Bloom was not picking anything up. She just stared at the food, as if she had no idea what it was or how to eat in that matter.

"Apple Bloom... eat." Big Mac requested, as he was chewing his food. He was unsure of what was going on. Big Mac grew frightened of her in this state, maybe he was imagining her the entire time, maybe he was dreaming of this, maybe Apple Bloom was lost? He took a piece up to her mouth, and she took a bite. She had to be fed like a baby. This was the worst state he had ever seen Apple Bloom, it would normally go away after a while, but this was almost feeling like it was permanent, and that was exactly what he feared.

After they were finished, the day grew thin, and Big Mac had to make sure he fed the animals. He also remembered to park the truck inside the barn, in case it rains again.

He washed up the dishes, and he started to feel his arm throbbing with pain. The time Applejack was practically crushing his arm when she was upset about telling Rarity everything, was piercing his mind as was the pain in his arm. Apple Bloom stood silently at his side, but wasn't responding in the slightest. As if she was just an empty shell that followed his every move.

4

Big Mac drove up into the barn, and parked the truck. Apple Bloom watched as he came in through the opening driveway. He got out, and she immediately latched onto him once again. As she was holding onto his arm, he felt the pain surging back into him.

He grunted, and slightly pushed Apple Bloom off his arm. She was shaken, and stood away. He didn't mean to hurt her, he just couldn't take the pain.

"Am sorry..." Big Mac pleaded, he went over to her, but she resisted him.

With Apple Bloom still in the midst of her traumatic state, Big Mac had to continue on without her. He remembered the time when they worked together, and got everything done within minutes. It was nothing when Applejack was there to help. It felt so empty, and broken. If only they could work something out, they would have still been there for each other.

He picked up a couple stacks of hay, but as he lifted up to his highest point. He immediately dropped it, and fell to his knees. His arm was completely sprained, and felt an intense shock through his arm, all the way into his finger tips. He inhaled and exhaled heavily through his teeth, trying to mask the weeping in his throat.

"Son of a bitch!" Big Mac screamed, as he held his arm, unable to move.

In that moment, Apple Bloom saw him grunting in pain, She snapped out of her state and went down to help him.

"Big Mac!" Apple Bloom yelled, as she ran up to him.

"Apple Bloom...?" Big Mac whimpered, he looked at her. She was worried. Apple Bloom took off into the house, she picked up an arm brace that was piled in a box in the bathroom. She ran back out, and she covered his arm slowly to not make him feel pain. "Thank ya." Big Mac cried, as he laid down his arm into the rest that hung over his shoulder.

"Am sorry." Apple Bloom apologized, as she got up and looked at Big Mac.

"It's alright..." Big Mac said, as he got up. "Wanna help?" Big Mac asked, as he held up one side of the stack.

"Of course!" Apple Bloom said, she held onto the other and brought it to the gate together.

As the time past, there was one job left to do, and that was too feed the pigs. Apple Bloom hated going inside the gates, but she wanted to make it up to Big Mac for his arm injury. She took it upon herself to do so, as Big Mac stood and watched over for her.

The pigs were scattered across the field, the place was always muddy, and there was room outside the barn to drop their food into a feeding bin. She also had to replace the water in their buckets. She held up the heavy, sludgy canister of the pigs' food inside, and had to walk all the way out into the open field to drop it inside the bins. The worst part was that she had to walk through the incredibly muddy pot hole the pigs loved to lay in.

She walked in barefoot, and closed the gates. Big Mac was watching her, and was praying she could do it. Apple Bloom walked for a couple minutes into the field, and she was starting to feel the exhaustion weighing on her. Carrying the heavy canister was making it worse, and could barely move. She looked out to see how far she was from the bins, and she was about halfway to it, barely stepping right into the muddy trail ahead. She couldn't stop, and if she were to accidentally drop it, it would cause the pigs to awaken and attack for a taste of their food. She looked up again, she was sweating, having to continue walking through the sinking pothole and carrying something that was dragging her down further. It felt almost too impossible.

As she looked ahead, she saw something that wasn't there before. Over in the distance, among the trees and over the fences. She saw a shadow figure. Her heart started racing, as it looked familiar, and was not too far from where she was standing.

Apple Bloom took one false step, and accidentally stepped onto one of the pig's tail. It screamed, awakening the others. The pig dashed, and it threw Apple Bloom off her balance. She tumbled down into the mud, and spilled the canister of food all over. The pigs could smell it, and they rushed over to her. Seconds later, she was being trampled over and mud would trap her in with it covering her face. She heard a faint cry calling to her. As she was closing her eyes, Big Mac ran out to her, crying out for her and holding out his hand. But, before she could see what happened, she sunk deeper and the darkness enclosed her.

5

Apple Bloom awakened in her bedroom. Big Mac was shocked to see her shoot up from the bed. Almost seconds after he had pulled her out of the mud. She was still dirty, but from what she saw, it appeared she was wiped up a little bit. Big Mac sat beside her on the bed, he was covered in mud as well, and was laying down a dirty towel. He looked at her with relief, but was a little concerned.

"Are ya okay?" Big Mac asked, he spoke softly, and could hear the crushing feeling in his speech. Apple Bloom looked away, not saying a word. "Are ya hurt?" Big Mac continued, but she was not responding.

He held up his empty hand out and tried to hold her shoulder. But, she flicked her shoulder and his hand was wiped away. He knew she was upset, and couldn't do much of anything about it. He examined her, and it appeared she was not bleeding, nor was she bruised. Surprisingly, she was okay, but not feeling that way.

He sat up closer, and wanted to share something, but her attitude said otherwise.

"Ah should have left..." Apple Bloom spoke softly, as she began to tear up again. Her words were as broken as Big Mac's. "Ah would have avoided hurtin ya..."

"It's okay Apple Bloom..." Big Mac responded. He cleared up his throat and was speaking deeper. "We all should've just listened to each other..."

Things would have been easier for them, but they all resorted to hurting each other, separating themselves even further than before.

"Yer not disappointed in me...?!" Apple Bloom asked, as she cried out.

"Of course not... It wasn't yer fault. Am the adult, ah should have handled it better... it's my fault." Big Mac admitted. Apple Bloom looked down to the floor, and saw her pants still muddy but was starting to dry off. "Now... ah even don't know if Applejack would listen to me... if ah asked her..."

"What if ah go, will ya be okay with it?" Apple Bloom said, as she looked up at him. Big Mac was staring down at the wall. He didn't know how to respond. She looked back down, and tried to think of what to say.

"Yer such a soft, sweet little thing..."

Apple Bloom looked up at Big Mac, and he wasn't paying any attention. She looked away, and maybe he was thinking if he would miss her being there with him. If she was able to sleep on her own, she would have been fine, but she didn't know if she could. She didn't really like sleeping in Big Mac's room.

"But, ah like it when ya lay with me... cuddling together... feelin yer soft skin on mine..."

Apple Bloom was breathing harder, and looked up at Big Mac again with confusion and anger. She was devastated that Big Mac would say that, given she was slightly cleaned off before she woke up, with the dirty towel on the floor. What did he do to me? Apple Bloom thought. She started feeling sick, and discontent with Big Mac saying stuff like that. Maybe that one lady they met at the park had reason for blaming Big Mac. Maybe he had done something to Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle too? There had to have been a reason why he knew so much about them, maybe he was in on it as well?

"Ah don't think ya should be sayin stuff like that to yer little sister, Big Mac?!" Apple Bloom responded, her tone was fierce and was still distorted with sadness.

"Say what?" Big Mac asked, as he was confused on what she said.

"Ya think ah like to lay next to a stinky, sweaty old man?!" Apple Bloom yelled, and Big Mac was shocked to hear Apple Bloom say that to him.

"Well look, am not comfortable with it either. Ya came to me so you can sleep!" Big Mac argued. "Ah was only tryin to help!"

"Oh yeah?! What would happen if ah fell asleep?!" Apple Bloom got up, and faced him as she was stationed in the bed. "Who knows what you've been doin to me?!"

"Apple Bloom?!" Big Mac looked at her, he was saddened by her words, and felt crushed to hear such things. "What are ya accusin me of?! Ah would never do that! Yer my little sister!" Big Mac tried reasoning with her, but she was getting even angrier at him.

"Ya think a lady is goin wanna big sweaty blob?!" Apple Bloom yelled louder, and it pierced his eardrums. "Who likes sleepin with little girls?!"

Big Mac was silenced. He looked away.

"Apple Bloom..." Big Mac began to cry, and as Apple Bloom saw him, unable to move. She took off at the door, she took the key out that was hanging out of the keyhole. She closed the door and locked it from the other side.

"Apple Bloom! Apple Bloom!!!" Big Mac yelled, as Apple Bloom heard him pounding on the door and crying. "Open the door!!!"

"Am sorry Big Mac... this is for yer own good!" Apple Bloom suggested.

6

Apple Bloom went down the stairs and she kept hearing Big Mac through the door, but the TV came on, and the sound of the TV was much louder. It started playing a song which she was unfamiliar with. She walked down to see what it was saying.

"Sweet dreams are made of this, who am I to disagree?" The TV spoke, and the rhythm of the song continued. "I traveled the world, and the seven seas... everybody's looking for Apple Bloom!" Apple Bloom saw her face on the screen, she freaked out and started to hyperventilate. Chills encapsulated her entire being, and she couldn't think of what to do. She couldn't handle the situation, everything was turning against her, and no one was there to help. Who can she trust anymore, if the entire world was out to get her?

She walked away from the TV, it was still playing that song, it was ringing in her head, and it was all she could hear. Why is this song haunting me? She cried to herself. She put her head down, and try to cover her ears from the sounds that were getting increasingly louder. She couldn't mask the sounds, and just heard "some of them want to use you, some of them want to be used by you. Some of them want to abuse you, some of them want to be abused."

Why? Apple Bloom asked herself. Why me?

Big Mac's door swung open, the force of the door came tumbling down from its hinges. Apple Bloom screamed and ran out the front door. Big Mac had to use every ounce of his strength to open it, but it was to make sure Apple Boom wasn't going anywhere on her own.

Apple Bloom ran out to the front lawn, and she saw a large shadow figure running after her. Apple Bloom glanced at the barn, and ran for it in that same direction. She didn't look back, as she felt that figure's presence coming ever so closer to snatch her away.

She ran up to the barn doors, and she closed it as fast as she could, blocking it's entrance. She saw the haystacks that were leading upwards, so she took off and climbed up to the upper platforms that stabilize the barn. She got up on one of the planks and made her way as far as she could to stay hidden from it.

As she was up there, she could hear that figure trying to get in, also hearing it walk around. Even if it was outside the barn, it felt like it was at her side waiting to grab her and hurt her. She kept having that song in her head, the catchy tune and easily recognizable lyrics made it so creepily easy to replay in her head. It felt as if the person who was singing was right outside the barn, singing it to her. She tried to calm herself down, having to keep her breath steady, holding onto the plank with her life, or she may end up falling down almost ten feet above ground.

She heard a noise from outside, and it seems that figure was coming in from the fences. That same fence Big Mac was working on, became loose, and allowed room for it to walk into the barn. Apple Bloom held her mouth with her hand, while the other was holding her entire weight onto the platform to steady herself from falling. She tried to mask any sound coming from her, but she couldn't help but cry and weep under her breath, hoping it wouldn't see her.

"Apple Bloom!" It cried out, as it searched the area, looking around, and knocking over the haystacks. It was so desperate to find her, it wasn't letting up. Apple Bloom took her hand away to give more support, as it was starting to weigh down on her. The moment she did, she accidentally let out a whimper, which made it look up at her. She screamed, and nearly lost her grip on it, but she grabbed onto it as quickly as she could. It came, and tried to reach out for her as it called out her name.

Apple Bloom continued to walk along the narrow plank to the opening of the outside. She somehow made it through, and was up on the roof, having climbed through the open shaft from the plank. She never was up there, but she recognized how unstable it was. She was walking, until she could see the area in front of the barn. From up there, she could see for miles, she saw the school, she saw her friend's homes, and their clubhouse. The trees had blocked it's way from seeing the nearby town, as it rustled with the winds, but she was able to get a glimpse of the park they went to. She remembered that lady, how right she was to fear, but even if they had taken it away, there are more of them. Never ceasing the lost individuals who have their gain in watching the pain of children suffering. How cruel and unfair the world has become.

She heard a creak behind her, it was it. The entity followed her to the roof, and there was nowhere to run but to give into its desire to have her. It reached out to her, but she looked down from the barn. If she was able to get away, it would be to leave entirely. That way nothing will harm her, nothing would use her, and she wouldn't have to suffer the pain.

"Apple Bloom!" It cried out, it held its hand out to give a sense of trying to save her from peering over the edge. "Please, don't do this!"

"Why? So you can hurt me?!" Apple Bloom yelled, her eyes became dry over the salt of her tears, and couldn't let out another if she tried. "Have your way with me?!"

"Apple Bloom... please..." It pleaded. "I know this world is full of bad things... but you don't have to see it that way. It changes you, but never let go of what's important."

"What's that?" Apple Bloom said, as her speech became weakened.

"Your heart... am sorry ah doubted you. You can help so many people if you put her heart into it... the only way you could... havin love and care for everythin..." It cried, as it began to whimper too. "For everyone... even when it seems too hard, and with tougher problems... that's what family and friends are for... they are there for you... every step of the way..."

"But they aren't... they aren't because of me..." Apple Bloom admitted, as she looked down at the ground. She was crying. The salt of her tears burned her skin from so much crying and soreness of her wiping them away. It felt like an endless stream since day one, and nothing could stop it from coming. "We are gone... lost... we aren't together anymore... it's because of me!"

"No..." It cried, it shook it's head. "We would do anythin for you... we'll come back, but only with you... it will work out, ah promise. But only when you are here with us... if you don't, we may never come back. Please Apple Bloom, ah beg you... please don't leave... we need you... now more than ever... please..."

She turned around to look out to the fields, the school, and various homes. Even when the world seems lost and broken, maybe they all were just trying to find a way home. The song from her mind stopped playing. The winds were pulling her way from the edge, and she listened.

Apple Bloom turned back, and reached out to the entity. It reached out to her, and when they felt each other's hands, Apple Bloom saw her brother. He was the one who came to her, and begged for her. He truly cared, and was willing to go through anything for her. She walked slowly, so she could finally return home.

As she stepped, she fell through the ceiling. Within a second, not even a scream was let out, she disappeared through a small hole into the barn.

Chapter 7: Home

Chapter 7: Home

1

There was a large pound at the door. It sounded urgent, and it got everyone up close to the front door.

"What is it?" Rarity said, as she opened the door. She swung it open, and it was Scootaloo. She was panting heavily, and was trying to say something but was out of breath. She was sweating profusely. Sweetie Belle went over to see what was going on.

"Scootaloo?" Sweetie Belle questioned, but Rarity pushed her out of the way.

"Look, Sweetie Belle can't come over to play, she is grounded!" Rarity said, as she was about to close the door, but Scootaloo held out her hand to stop her from shutting it completely. Rarity was already upset, and didn't want to deal with whatever game she was playing. "Now's not the time, Scootaloo!" Scootaloo inhaled a tremendous amount of oxygen.

"Just shut up!" Scootaloo yelled. Rarity was stunned. "I need Applejack! There's something going on at the barn!!!"

"What?!" Rarity screamed, opened the door wider. "What's..."

"I don't know! It's important! Apple Bloom needs our help!!!" Scootaloo yelled, as she began to run out to the streets. Sweetie Belle heard Apple Bloom, and she immediately ran out to catch up with her.

"Sweetie Belle!" Rarity continued, trying to get her to come back, but there was no time to be wasting.

Rarity ran to the bedroom, and got Applejack to go with her. Even with Applejack, feeling upset at herself, she had to go for her. Whatever was happening, she could only hope that Apple Bloom was okay. Both Rarity and Applejack went to meet up with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Applejack started to regret giving up the truck at this point, as was Rarity. She also regrets ignoring Big Mac's phone calls, as he stopped answering her as well when she tried.

2

Apple Bloom awoke in her bedroom. She felt rested, and somehow not hurt from all the pain she felt earlier. She looked around, and the whole room was lit up with the skies outside, sunny and bright.

"Big Mac?" Apple Bloom called, and there was no answer. It was quite silent in the room, and she didn't hear much of anything outside of it. She got up, and everything felt lighter than before. Her body felt lifted, and the floors felt warm and different.

She went out, and the living room, and the bedrooms were empty. Where is everyone? Apple Bloom asked herself. The area was spotless and brighter than most sunny days. She went down stairs, there was silence and everything felt clean. She no longer felt fear as she did before, she felt safer and nothing felt better than being home.

She began to hear singing, it was echoey through the walls. The sound of humming, it was calming, comforting, and sounded familiar.

She opened the front door, and it got louder. It appeared to be coming from the barnyard. She walked over to the sound, as the grass and dirt felt softer on her bare feet. There was no sharp rocks or mud as she remembered. She opened up the doors, and she saw a woman who was sitting on the haystacks near the fence.

"Granny...?" Apple Bloom called out. "Is that you?" She walked slowly to the figure, and it appeared to be so. She turned around and smiled.

"Apple Bloom!" Granny Smith said. "It's so good to see ya!"

Apple Bloom cried, and went over to her to give her a hug.

"Ah've missed ya!" Apple Bloom cried, as Granny was humming to her, embracing her. "Am so glad yer home!" Apple Bloom said, as she unlatched her arms from her. Granny smiled.

"Oh sweet pea..." Granny said cautiously. "Come sit with me!" Granny moved a bit to her side, to allow Apple Bloom to take a seat next to her. Apple Bloom sat down with her, they were facing the fence, and there were quite a few cows inside. Even some Apple Bloom recognized, but couldn't quite see why. "Listen, ah now ah've been gone a while, but that was because ah was here the entire time."

"What do ya mean, Granny?" Apple Bloom asked, as she looked up at her. "Ah didn't see ya here?"

"Well, that's the thing..." Granny said calmly, as she exhaled. "We're in some sort of spiritual place."

"What?" Apple Bloom questioned. "We're... dead?"

"No, not yet..." Granny said, as she saw Apple Bloom a little frightened of the idea.

"What happened?" Apple Bloom asked.

"For ya, as ah recall, ya fell through the roof of the barn!" Granny informed, as Apple Bloom was surprised.

"That was real?! It felt like... like it wasn't real." Apple Bloom admitted, as she looked down. "What about you?"

"For me, medicine wasn't respondin too well, but they put me to sleep before anythin was severe." Granny said, as Apple Bloom looked up at her again, she was worried. "But, ah was also told to stay here... He told me to wait for ya, then afterward ah could leave if ah want."

"Really?" Apple Bloom continued. "He? Who's He?"

"Ya remember me tellin ya about God?" Granny asked.

"Really?! He's here?!" Apple Bloom jumped from the haystack.

"He sure is sweetie!" Granny said.

"What do ya mean about leavin?" Apple Bloom asked, as she sat back down.

"Don'tcha worry about that, am not leavin ya for one second! Ya kids aren't ready to be out on yer own yet, apparently!" Granny smiled. "However, after bein here for awhile... ah realized the things ah've been missin, things ah've been puttin off, things ah need to share before ah do leave!"

"But, what does leavin mean?" Apple Bloom continued.

"Well, it means ah'll be asleep for awhile." Granny answered.

"For awhile?" Apple Bloom questioned.

"Until it's time..." Granny said. "But, listen... before we stay for too long, we have to get down to business here!"

"Like what?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Ah am here for two things." Granny said. "One, meetin ya here to clear up somethings. And two, to give ya a message before anything were to happen to ya, am afraid ah may not be back by then!"

"Ah guess ya can tell me about those shadow people?" Apple Bloom asked.

"They aren't real, ya imagined it." Granny said.

"They aren't?"

"When ya don't get enough sleep, ya start to see things that aren't there. Ya also began to hear things too, which was why ya locked Big Mac in his room!"

"Ah didn't know..."

"It's okay, he'll forgive ya, he's a good man. May not be the brightest, but he has heart."

"Ah've been so terrible to everyone..."

"It's not yer fault sweetheart, there have been dark things around us in which we don't see. They've become more frequent, because of dangerous people."

"And that song... what was that song?"

"It's an old song, we used to hear it when we went to that ol' supermarket downtown."

"Ah guess ah missed it so much, and learned some scary stuff about that place."

"Yeah, it was a simpler time, but bad things were still happenin. Even back then, there were people who knew, but the majority didn't want to hear it, and want to remain ignorant, remain in their own comfort."

"But why, Granny? And what about me?"

"People want to believe that if anything doesn't happen in their lives, then they have no use worryin. For ya, Applejack swore to be there for ya every step of the way, but she didn't tell ya a thing. That's why ah need to come back, there's so much at stake."

"Well, at least, yer coming back!" Apple Bloom delighted, and Granny smiled and nodded. "Granny, about those people who really do stuff, bad things to children, is there a way to help them?"

"Of course there is! It takes faith, love, and forgiveness! If they are wanting to change, that is. But, there are some who remain that way."

"Why?"

"Like Big Mac said, it is an endless road they walk. These bad things continue to persuade them to go further, until they believe themselves to be so far into it, they can't just walk out."

"Why does God not help them, and the children?"

"That's what yer here for! That's what we are all here for! Those children who do suffer, they are taken back to a better place."

"We?"

"Everyone. Always remember that, Apple Bloom! Everyone here has purpose. We are here to help people through the livin, to have life, but the majority guide them to death, which is why many feel the need to want to live beyond what they are supposed to. They don't want to die knowin quite well, how unfulfilled their lives have become."

"How can ah help?"

"That's for ya find out! Helpin people in yer own unique way! Isn't that what you Crusaders stand for?!"

"We do!" Apple Bloom stood up, feeling proud to be who she is. Granny got up, and took her to her body, which was laying inside the bed of the truck. She was badly damaged. "Do ah go back?"

"If ya want. Ya can leave or go back." Granny said. "If ya go back, it will be tough, but it will be tougher without ya, if ya decide to leave. When people leave too soon, it gets tougher for everyone. Tougher for people to come back where they need to be."

"Well, ah wouldn't want to burden anyone, so... ah'll head back!"

"Ah knew ya would! Ah'll be seein ya, sweet apple pie! Oh yeah, tell Applejack, He's waitin."

"Waitin?"

"She'll know what it means..."

Apple Bloom laid where she fell, and it felt like she sunk down from where she was, and a light had engulfed into her.

3

Apple Bloom woke up, and her body felt badly in pain. She coughed, having been out for a while with dust from the roof and mud that covered her. She couldn't move an inch, and everything started to hurt. She cried, but was relieved to be back. She couldn't breathe well enough, but she took it slow, as everything became stressed out from the pain. She thought of something to help her get her mind off of it. She decided to sing a song.

"Bad Things That Never End"
Performed By: Apple Bloom

Ah can feel it lie with me
It won't seem to go away
To see what it takes from me
And to face it anyway

It never ends
but to seek the good in it
It never ends
but to do away with it
It never ends
but to seek the truth within
It never ends
but to do what's right again

Back things that never end

Apple Bloom started to feel herself coming back, and she began to mask the pain in herself. She began to feel the faith. She lifted. She stood up, and began to feel the weight of being in flesh once again. She continued.

As the darkness sleeps beneath
And the light flickers away
The love still beats in me
To help me find the way

It never ends
but to seek the good in it
It never ends
but to do away with it
It never ends
but to seek the truth within
It never ends
but to do what's right again

Bad things that never end!

4

As Apple Bloom was done, she jumped off the truck feeling like herself. She heard a cry in the barn somewhere. With the barn closed off, it was dark inside, and could barely see.

Moments later, she heard the barn door start to bash with sounds, as if someone was trying to use a battery ram to break down the doors. Before Apple Bloom had time to react, it was kicked down by Applejack.

"Applejack!" Apple Bloom cried, as she ran up to her and hugged her. Applejack was breathing hard, and was sweating. She couldn't move all too well, but she held her close, unsure of what to do.

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle ran inside, and they saw Apple Bloom with Applejack. They ran to her and hugged her too. Rarity was right behind them, seeing them huddle together.

"Apple Bloom, are you hurt?!" Rarity asked. "Give her some space, please!" Rarity requested, as they moved away. Apple Bloom shook her head.

"Well, ah did fell from the roof, and been exhausted for not sleepin." Apple Bloom said. "Ah was also trampled over a bunch of pigs!"

"Oh you poor sweet thing!" Rarity said, as she was dusting her off, and examining for any blood or anything damaging. "Applejack..." Rarity turned to look, as she was crying, looking away from them.

"Applejack, what's wrong?" Rarity asked, as she walked over to her. She touched her shoulder, and Applejack snapped away from her.

"What's wrong, big sis?" Apple Bloom added, as she was worried for her.

"Ah failed ya sweetpea... ah failed all of ya..." Applejack admitted, as she was crying. "Ah was supposed to protect and be there for ya, but ah didn't..."

"Applejack..." Rarity cried.

"Big sis, it's okay." Apple Bloom went over to her. "We all didn't listen to each other, that's why things went terribly... but, we may not be able to make up for what happened, we can change it now for the future!" Apple Bloom said, and Applejack smiled.

"Yer right, ah will do whatever ya need me to do!" Applejack said, as she went on her knees to hug her again. As Apple Bloom was at her ear, she told her that God was waiting for her. Applejack's eyes were opened wide, and her pupils shrunk, as if she knew. She pulled away from Apple Bloom, and looked at her. She nodded. Applejack stood up, and nodded.

"Where's Big Mac?" Rarity asked.

"Am up here!" Big Mac shouted, it was from the opening at the roof. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle saw him, and they pointed him out to them. Rarity focused, and used her element to spawn a glowing lift which escalated up to him, and descended down enough to jump onto the roof of the truck. He came down to the ground, and met up with everyone.

"Big Mac!" Applejack said, as she went over to him and hugged him as well. Big Mac grunted, as she jumped right onto his arm. She looked down, and saw that his arm was in a rest. Applejack apologized, and Big Mac knew in which he forgave her for. "Was the roof always so unstable?"

"It's only been that way since the time Sonata Dusk came through." Big Mac said.

"Sonata Dusk was here?" Applejack said, as the Crusaders looked at each other, as they haven't heard that name in a long time.

"It's a long story, but she came through that way." Big Mac said. "It was bound to crash down again, ah only placed up what ah could for it, to cover it up."

"Ah see." Applejack said, as she looked at the ground.

"Am glad yer here, ah was afraid we may have lost her..." Big Mac cried.

"Ah know..." Applejack stated.

Apple Bloom went over to them, and hugged them both, as she was regretful over her decisions before, especially for Big Mac. She told him that she was going crazy, and he agreed, but also forgiven her. Apple Bloom and Big Mac were filling in the details with Applejack. Rarity was with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. They saw the love and care they had for each other. It made them emotional as well. Sweetie Belle held Scootaloo's hand, it made her freak out, by doing that in front of them.

"Scootaloo and I are getting married!" Sweetie Belle shouted, adding to the surprise of everyone, as she held their hand together, holding it up for everyone to see.

"What?!" Rarity and Scootaloo squealed, they both blushed as well. "So, that's why?" Rarity questioned, as Sweetie Belle nodded. Rarity sighed with relief. "I suppose I could lift your punishment, but no more talking like a sailor!"

"Aye, aye!" Sweetie Belle commented, as she winked. Rarity smiled. The others gathered with them, to talk about what to do next. Apple Bloom went over to Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo was dazed out with embarrassment and joy. Still holding onto her hand, unknowingly.

"Am so proud of ya guys!" Apple Bloom said, as she hugged them both. "When's the wedding?"

"Haha, who know's. But, are you feeling okay?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Better than ever!" Apple Bloom admitted. Sweetie Belle smiled.

"Apple Bloom?" Applejack asked, as she was talking with Big Mac and Rarity. Apple Bloom walked over to them. "Hey there sugarcube. So, are ya wantin to stay here, or be with Rarity an me?"

"Are ya gonna be okay Big Mac?" Apple Bloom asked. "With yer arm an everythin?"

"Yes. Ah can handle myself." Big Mac admitted, as he smiled.

"Well, ah'll stay with sis!" Apple Bloom delighted. Applejack and Rarity smiled, happy they got to have another child.

"Sweetie Belle?" Rarity called out for her, as she walked over. "You don't mind Apple Bloom coming living with us, right?"

"Really? Not at all!" Sweetie Belle delighted.

"We will, of course, have her stay in your room for now, but Applejack would have something to do for that!" Rarity suggested.

"Yep!" Applejack agreed.

Scootaloo was still stunned from what Sweetie Belle said, until she heard someone in the barn that was not accounted for.

5

Scootaloo snapped out of her dazed state, and went over to where that noise was coming from. Behind a few haystacks, she saw a person who was crying.

"Who the hell are you?!" Scootaloo screamed, and everyone went over to her. They saw a person who was kneeling over the hay, crying, and was hanged over to hide the person's face. Everyone was shocked.

The person looked up, and stood up to face them. Big Mac recognized her, she wore the same clothes she had on the day before. It was the lady they met at the park, all of their stomachs started to churn. Rarity went up to her, as she wore a large hat, and took it off to reveal who she was.

"Vignette?!" Rarity yelled. Applejack's head perked up, and the others were confused. "What are you doing here?!"

"I'm so sorry... I'm so sorry..." Vignette cried, as she was crying for a while. She had been there for a while, as the red resting marks of hay were on her knees. "For everything..."

"What is she talkin about?" Applejack stood up, and walked over to her. "Am not sure if we should trust her for one second!"

"Darling, please..." Rarity pleaded, as she held her shoulder.

"No, she's right... I have no right to be here..." Vignette said, as she cried.

"Why are you here?" Rarity asked, as Applejack gave her the stink eye. Rarity rolled her eyes.

"If you want to know, then let me explain." Vignette said. "Then, you can report me to the authorities."

"What?!" Rarity said.

"You!" Vignette pointed out to Big Mac. She walked over to him, he hung back as she came close to him. "I'm sorry for everything I said to you... you don't have to forgive me, just please, take good care of your sisters!"

"O-okay?" Big Mac said, with confusion. He wasn't confused about what she did, but why she was all the sudden apologizing for it. Rarely do people like her, admit their wrongdoings.

"Rarity, as far as you should know. My reputation was diminished since the time you all came to me to work at the carnival that summer. I went crazy, and started to unleash my anger into cancelling the Rainbooms." Vignette admitted.

"So, it was you who...!" Applejack was cut off by Rarity. She held out her arm before Applejack could reach to her.

"Yes. Then, after I started getting a large following. I turned people away from you. And was seeking those who found any source of anything magical." Vignette explained.

"So, that's what you were askin' us about?" Apple Bloom commented.

"I did, and when your older brother came to me, I panicked, and started to cause a scene." Vignette said. "But, after I saw you, out in the field trying to feed your pigs. I went over to see what was up, in all honesty, I came to get some dirt on your family so I can... tell everybody what an awful person Big Mac was. But, after all I saw... I couldn't... your song, and the way you lifted yourself from falling like that... I felt something special about you...." Vignette started crying again. "Now I regret everything!"

Everyone looked at each other, even Applejack started to feel sympathetic for her. Big Mac came to her. She flinched, having been drawn back to his large figure.

"Ah forgive ya." Big Mac said. Vignette looked away, as if she couldn't accept his goodness.

"Thank you, but I can't... you can call the authorities and have them take me away." Vignette said, as she looked up at him.

"Why would ah do that?" Big Mac said.

"I trespassed on your property, and I need time to get away from it all... please... it's the least I can do to make things right!" Vignette said. Everyone was saddened by her willingness to go through facing jail-time for her crimes against humanity.

"Thank you." Apple Bloom said, as Vignette smiled.

"You are really special, to have everyone who cares about so much. To have so much potential to reverse everything." Vignette said. As everyone looked confused on what she meant.

6

Moments later, the authorities arrived, and Big Mac said what he could about her trespassing into their property. Big Mac went over to her at the door of the car she was in. She had been handcuffed, and was placed into one of the vehicles.

"Are ya sure ya want to do this?" Big Mac asked. "Ah wasn't even going to press charges."

"I'm sure." Vignette said, as she smiled at him. "For the record, after everything, your sisters are very lucky to have you there for them." Vignette said, as she went up to Big Mac and kissed his right cheek. "Thank you."

After a while, the police made their way to the police department, with Vignette. Big Mac received a phone call from the hospital. They mentioned that Granny Smith was responding well to the treatment, and she should be able to get back home very soon. Big Mac was relieved to hear from them, after weeks of unknowing of what was going on. He told everyone, Apple Bloom was sure that she would make it.

For the rest of the time, they all helped Apple Bloom pack a few things before it got too late. Applejack was unsure if she wanted to leave or take the truck, but Big Mac suggested to trade off to whomever needs it most.

That night, Apple Bloom waved goodbye to Big Mac, and was happy for him. They all went back to Rarity's place, as Rarity agreed the girls could sleepover.

7

Big Mac was alone, as he walked back into the house. He was relieved, everything was starting to take shape. He was happy. He saw Apple Bloom arise from her fall, and he too felt that she was going to be a huge influence of the people. He regretted saying she couldn't, for she changed that lady they met at the park, who was there to torment them, but changed entirely.

The thought of the kiss, reminded him of her. He also remembered mentioning her, that exact same spot where she fell. He went for the house line, and tried to remember where he placed the number.

He found it in an old wallet he had. The day he met her, he was suspicious of her as well, but turned out to be kind, loyal, and adorable. He called her.

S: Hello?
BM: Hey, it's Big Mac!
S: Big Mac! Hi! Why haven't you said anything in awhile?
BM: Ah forgot... am sorry...
S: That's alright. What's going on? How is everyone?!
BM: A lot has happened... ah just... wanted to hear yer voice...
S: Aww, that's so sweet!
BM: Wish ya were here, where are you.
S: Places... honestly would like to go back to see you, Apple Bloom, and Granny!
BM: Yeah...
Big Mac started to cry on the line.
S: What's the matter?
BM: It's been too much lately...
S: I understand... It's okay. You're a tough guy, you got this, I know you do!
BM: Ya really think am useful?
S: Of course you are! You do so much for everyone, I just know it!
BM: Thank ya... I've been so alone...
S: Me too... I miss you guys... even if it was only for a short time... I felt at home.

8

It was late at night, everyone was practically asleep. Rarity and Applejack were so exhausted they slept immediately. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were still up, and they were talking about what they did. They laid on the ground, as Apple Bloom was listening to music on the bed.

"So, thanks for embarrassing me!" Scootaloo whispered, sarcastically.

"It's what I do!" Sweetie Belle admitted. Scootaloo smiled, as she was surprised by how she said it.

"I wouldn't mind getting married..." Scootaloo suggested, as she smiled and blushed.

"Yeah, that would definitely piss off my parents!" Sweetie Belle said.

"Yeah it would." Scootaloo smiled. "Since we fixed up their issues, how about we fix yours with your parents."

"That's a dead end, I'm afraid." Sweetie Belle said. "They are not going to change at all, even for my sakes!"

"Yeah... want to head somewhere?" Scootaloo asked.

"Where?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Neverland!" Scootaloo said, as she picked her up, and walked out to the door.

They went outside, and took a seat on the grass, as they saw the night sky full of stars. They felt a slight breeze coming through, as always, pushing the clouds and the trees in the same direction.

"Nice night!" Sweetie Belle commented, as she looked up to the moon.

"Yep! I thought some air would calm my nerves down." Scootaloo mentioned, as she looked at the ground.

"Why?" Sweetie Belle asked, she looked to Scootaloo.

"After all that, you feeling okay?" Scootaloo asked, as she looked at Sweetie Belle.

"Well, my back has been killing me!" Sweetie Belle admitted.

"Want me to give you a massage?" Scootaloo suggested.

"No, but now that you mentioned it..." Sweetie Belle smiled. She turned, her back was facing Scootaloo, she pulled her hair to her front. The reason Scootaloo asked was because she had done this multiple times before. She rolled her eyes, and turned to enough distance to do so.

"Hey, remember that song you sang a couple weeks back?" Scootaloo asked, as she carefully rubbed her back.

"Yeah?" Sweetie Belle said.

"Do you mind... singing it again?" Scootaloo requested. Sweetie Belle smiled, as she narrowed her eyes, feeling the calmness of love she had for her. Scootaloo always loved to hear her singing voice.

"Sure." Sweetie Belle agreed. Since they were outside, she could sing it with enough volume.

"The Fear of the World"
Performed By: Sweetie Belle

It takes us back, it takes us down
What we all lack, when our love has drowned
There were worries long before
It makes our skin crawl, and our hearts sore

It turns us away, from each other again
Nothing left to say, when we are scattered within
There were sorrows cried before
It breaks us inside, and shatters our core
When the world continues to tore

It's the way of the world
We are just children, lost in a nightmare
In world so broken, always so unfair
It's the way of the world
When we are lost and gone, but found hope once again
We return where we belong, and finding the truth within
It's the way of the world

It's the way of the world
Even when we are fractured, we will carry on
Friendships will mold our beloved, holding strong
It's the way of the world
Even when the sunsets, the light will return again
We were made imperfect, but perfect within
It's the way of the world

We will stand against
The fear of the world
The fear of the world

The End...

9

Vignette was sitting in a cell, it was empty as it was rare for women to be involved in crime, according to the internet. One of the police guards allowed one person to visit her that same night.

She was placed in a confrontation/interrogation room, with only one light to light up the room. The video cameras were turned off, and the window that would have other police officers to see what was happening, was closed off. Then, a man with a mask over his face came walking in. He was suited well, and took a seat in front of Vignette.

"So, tell how this came to be." The man said. "I gave you an order, and you have disobeyed that order."

She remained silent.

"Did you, at least, get any information out of the Apple family or any of the Rainbooms in that matter?" The man said, as she was shaking her head.

"Must I remind you about our mission?" The man continued, he remained still, and sat up straight and looked at her through the mask. "Do you not care anymore? Are you wanting out?"

She nodded her head.

"I'm beginning to lose trust in any of you adolescent children. Even the ones I hired weeks ago, who thought they could just walk away without giving me a single tidbit of what's out there." The man continued. "They will be taken care of as well."

"Just stop! Stop using us!" Vignette yelled.

"I'm afraid that's out of the question. You see children are more likely to be ingrained with this power. Magic is also most attracted to those of purity and innocence. So, I asked for your involvement in discoveries that would change our world! Do you not want to see what tomorrow may bring, if we found where this source derives from?!"

"No!" Vignette said blatantly.

"Magic can also be concentrated due to pain and stress on the body. I'm afraid you know quite well what I'm capable of!" The man continued. She looked at him. "Tell me what you saw that made you change? Yesterday, you found them, and was to report back to me, why has that changed?!"

"A miracle." Vignette cried.

"Miracle?" The man questioned.

"A miracle that showed me who I really am, and who you really are... a monster!" Vignette stated.

"Very well. That's too bad. I am a visionary! I only want one simple thing. I have other ways to make you talk." The man stated.

"Lord, this is what I get... I'm sorry..." Vignette whispered to herself as she cried. As she knew what comes next.

"I'm afraid you're right, but He's not going to save you." He stood up, and gave her a sedative. "Because He's not here!" Those last words echoed in her mind, as she fell into a deep sleep.

He carried her out, as the officers looked away, and turned off the cameras as he went by. He placed her in a van, and took her to the outskirts of Canterlot City.

The end of the end.