Travelers Tales: The Apple Of My Eyeby Slippin_SweetieChaptersParting Gifts And Love LanguagesThe Life Of A CrusaderDiscord's DichotomyWreckage Wrap UpFamilial Pride And A Crusader's CodeThe Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The TreeParting Gifts And Love LanguagesToday was the day, the day everything would change for the Apples; one of their own would venture off to unknown lands and leave them by their lonesome. It wasn’t a completely foreign concept to the Apple Family, especially to the Apple Family at large. But the difference being that one Apple would be taken from the bushel, taken from the bundle, if you will. But all of them put on a brave face for Twilight; it wasn’t her fault it was like this, and it wasn’t the first time this family had to deal with significant changes. But it didn’t make it any less painful. “More eggs, Twilight?” Offered Applebloom. “Please!” nodded Twilight as she moved her plate toward Applebloom with her magic. Good manners, just as Applejack had taught her, and she hadn’t forgotten to give a polite smile to their guest. Each minute was more agonizing than the last; every second passed was another moment closer to when Applejack would leave. “May I be excused?” Applebloom quietly asked; she wasn’t that hungry; how could she? Today had her stomach in knots. “Sure thing, sugar cube, be sure to wash your plate.” Pressed Applejack. “Yes, ma’am…” Murmured Applebloom, as she washed her plate, Granny Smith playfully nudged her, “Put some more pep in yer step, youngin!” chortled Granny. Applebloom frowned, giving her elder a sorrowful gaze; Granny paused, looking over to make sure Twilight wasn’t in earshot, “Listen, I know it’s not easy, but you need to get anything and everything off your chest less you miss your chance to speak yer piece.” “Okay…Granny?” “Yes, dearie?” “Are you worried about Applejack too?” Applebloom said as she looked up toward the older mare. “Applejack has her wits about her; she’s strong and has her friends by her side. I couldn’t ask for better folk to watch her, but I can’t help but worry." The young filly sighed, “I guess you’re right, but when’s the right time to talk to her?” “When you got your thoughts altogether, you don’t wanna come up to her when you’re weak in the knees and spewing non-sense, right Big Mac?” Big Mac looked over from the sink and nodded, “Yup.” Applebloom looked over to Big Mac, “Are you worried, Big Mac?” The older stallion took a deep breath, “Yup….” Applebloom couldn’t help but smile; knowing that her older brother was just as nervous and uneasy made the pain a little more bearable. “Thank y’all; I’ll be sure to talk to her then.” The young filly walked toward Applejack’s room; she could hear a pleasant hum from Twilight from the guest room and Spike’s nasally singing paired with a loud sneeze from the bathroom. If it weren’t for the circumstances, she wouldn’t of minded having Twilight and Spike around the house. They made lovely additions to the home. Applebloom approached Applejack’s bedroom door, giving it a firm knock with her left front hoof. “Come in!” Called Applejack. Applebloom pushed the door open before stepping inside; she took one last look inside Applejack’s room. She took a mental image of Applejack's room with her things. Applejack quickly packed her essentials, lassos, and a few family photos before turning to face Applebloom. “Good morning, sugar cube; I noticed you didn’t eat much breakfast today. Is something wrong?” Applejack fretted as she slowly turned to face the younger filly fully before she’d lean in and examine her, “You’re not under that spell still, are you?” Applebloom smiled as she playfully scoffed, “No, I’m fine…. I’m just worried about you; we all are!.... Why do you have to go?” Pleaded Applebloom as her expression soured like milk. Applejack took a deep breath as she sat down on the bed and patted her hoof next to her. Applebloom slowly climbed up and sat next to her older sister, “Applebloom, we need to have ‘the talk,’ now I know you’re a bit young, but it’s time you learn about the responsibility we Apples have.” She’d quickly fish out a few photos from her bag as she laid them out for Applebloom to see, “You know that Granny’s folks helped build the Orchard heck, they’re responsible for building Ponyville as we know it and let me tell ya building up this Orchard and the town wasn’t easy for them.” She said as she gestured to their great grandparents, gently tapping the glass frame with her hoof. “I know,” sighed Applebloom, “I know that I should be thankful that we don’t have to work as hard as they did, but it’s not about working, Applejack; it’s about not never seeing you again,” Applebloom admitted as she bowed her head. Applejack paused as she slowly collected her thoughts; the older mare looked down at Applebloom, “Applebloom, I know it won’t be easy, but you’re as tough as they come. I promise I’ll return as quickly as possible and in one piece.” She’d shove dApplebloom playfully as she winked at her. Applebloom chuckled as she smiled, “Okay…but I’m holding you to that promise!” “I wouldn’t have expected anything less than that.” Smiled Applejack. A few hours passed, and despite the talk with Applejack, Applebloom still felt uneasy, a weight that sunk into her stomach that she just couldn’t shake off. Applebloom sighed; her train of thought was interrupted by Twilight’s frantic pacing. “Books, check, gear check, Spike?” Spike let out a thundering sneeze from the other room, “Check, check, check!” She’d quickly look over to Applebloom, “Applebloom, I haven’t seen you since breakfast. Is everything alright?” Applebloom quickly put on her best smile for Twilight, “Yeah, just a bit drowsy,” she’d let out a forced yawn. Twilight gently rubbed Applebloom’s head, “Well, maybe you'll find some time to take a nap today, now….what else do I need….” The Alicorn quickly turned to her saddlebags and wares as she began mumbling to herself. Applebloom turned away from Twilight before she went to check on Applejack, who was with the other members of the Apple family, “Write a letter to our extended family; maybe we could find someone to help the Orchard while I’m gone.” Suggested Applejack. “Horse-feathers!” Scoffed Granny Smith, “We can take care of the Orchard ourselves!” “Yup.” Nodded Big Mac. “Come on, y’all, don’t let our pride blind us from a good harvest. Will y’all promise me to ask for help if you need it?” Pleaded Applejack as she gazed at the older ponies with her puppy-dog eyes. Granny sighed, “Fine, we’ll let you know if anything comes up. In exchange, you’ll write to us once in a while!” Applejack smiled, “I was planning on doing that anyway.” She’d wrap her front legs around Granny and Big Mac, squeezing them tightly as she sighed, “I’m going to miss y’all.” “Ahem.” Coughed Applebloom. Applejack turned around, playfully roughing up Applebloom’s hair, “You too, sugar cube.” “Got everything together Applejack?” Chimed Twilight as she approached the group with Spike. Applejack approached Twilight, “Er, sugar cube? I’m going to talk to Applebloom. I’ll catch up with you.” Twilight slowly turned around as she hoisted her saddlebags over her back, “Sure thing Applejack, come on, Spike, let’s not keep the others waiting; we got a big day ahead of us. We’ll be going to your favorite place.” “Heh, I am rather popular with the locals, aren’t I?” nudged Spike as he flashed a toothy smile at Twilight. Twilight shook her head as she playfully rolled her eyes and soon departed toward the train station. Applejack turned to Applebloom, “I want you to have something, hold still.” Applejack used her teeth to carefully remove the bow from Applebloom’s mane before carefully tying the bow around the brim of her hat. The process proved to be arduous without magic or claws. But she managed. Carefully placing the hat on Appleblooms head, the young filly looked at Applejack with confusion, “What are you doing? This is your hat!” “I know; I want you to take care of it while I’m gone; that way you’ll always got a piece of daddy and me. Whenever you’re alone or feeling down, take off your hat and look at it; remember that we’ll always be with you.” Applebloom quickly grappled Applejack as she clung to her older sister tightly, “I’ll take good care of it, I promise.” Applebloom said as she desperately fought off the tears, threatening to escape her eyes. Applejack looked down at the young filly before shoving the hat to the top of her head, “I know you will….shoot I gotta go, I’m gonna be late for the train!” She’d give Applebloom, one last squeeze before galloping out the door. “Take care of the Orchard while I’m gone y’all!” “We will!” Squawked Granny, “Be sure to get us some souvenirs!” Big Mac erupted into tears as he began sobbing, and as he waved goodbye, Applebloom took from her brother before bursting into tears herself. Granny Smith sighed, “Oh come now you big babies, if you don’t stop yer bellyaching….I might cry myself!” The Life Of A CrusaderA day had passed since Applejack left, and the effects were immediate. Just this morning alone, Applebloom didn’t wake up to the sound of her older Sister trotting down the hallway and into the kitchen to prepare a fresh batch of coffee. Little things like that added up throughout the day. The distant echo of her sister bucking a tree, the sound of her small talk with the cows as she milked them, or the excited yell from finding a truffle were all missing. Applebloom sighed; she desperately needed some noise to distract her from the noticeable absence of her sister. She’d walk to Ponyville, noticing the dozens of Stallions trotting two and fro from the wreckage site that was once Twilight Sparkle’s home. The young filly took a moment to observe the sight. The amount of destruction caused by one single pony was shocking, to say the least; she thanked the stars that nopony didn’t get hurt by the massive castle collapsing. As she made her way through the dozens of ponies going through town, she’d eventually make it to Sugar Cube Corner; she’d noticed Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle sitting at a table and quickly trotted toward them. “Hey y’all, mind if I join you?” “Like you even have to ask!” Snarked Scootaloo. “We just got here ourselves, have a seat.” Offered Sweetie Belle. Applebloom slid into the booth and sat next to Sweetie Belle; she took a deep breath as she relaxed; perhaps a milkshake or two could temper her mood, “What’s our plan of action for our Cutie Marks Crusaders?” “Well, if Rainbow Dash is going on some fantastical adventure with her friends, why don’t we?” Suggested Scootaloo, as she quickly focused on Mrs. Cake approaching. “Hello, everypony; what can I get you today?” Smiled Mrs. Cake. “I’ll have a chocolate milkshake!” Exclaimed Scootaloo. “I’ll have butter pecan, please.” requested Applebloom. “Mint chocolate for me, please!” Replied Sweetie Belle Mrs. Cake nodded as she gingerly wrote down their order before walking away toward the kitchen; Applebloom then turned back to Scootaloo, “I can’t; I have my responsibilities to the Orchard.” She’d slowly take off her hat, “To Applejack….” “Wait, is that Applejack’s hat?” Scootaloo observed the hat intently as if it were some object of power or relic of ancient history. “Yeah, she gave it to me before she left for the Crystal Empire.” Applebloom slowly placed the hat atop her head. “I like what you did with your old bow, makes it…you.” Smiled Sweetie Belle, “So we can’t go on an adventure, maybe we could do some….uh realtor work?” Scootaloo laughed, “Really? Being a realtor, what gives you that idea?” “I mean, they ARE rebuilding Twilight’s house; maybe we could help somepony else find a place to live.” Suggested Sweetie Belle. “.....Girls! I think I got it; maybe the answer is helping ponies!” Applebloom exclaimed as she slammed her hooves on the table excitedly, “Think about it, we’ve done just about everything under the sun, but we’ve only been trying to help ourselves; what if our special talent is helping others?” “Sooo….are you saying we should….sell houses?” Questioned Scootaloo as she scratched her head in confusion. “Maybe, we just have to give it a try.” Smiled Applebloom. Mrs. Cake soon returned, placing a silver tray full of milkshakes in front of the fillies, “Here you go, enjoy!” The fillies greedily took the milkshakes as they contently began slurping down the ice cream. “Mmm, okay, after our shakes, we can look into helping ponies via real estate.” Gulped Sweetie Belle. "I think we're seriously running out of ideas." Blurted Scootaloo. "Better than your 'sky diving from Cloudsdale' idea." Smirked Applebloom. "I forgot you guys can't walk on clouds!" Groaned Scootaloo. "You also forgot about the whole getting to Cloudsdale bit." Corrected Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo huffed as she crossed her front legs and grumpily slurped her shake. "Forget about it; we have realtor work to worry about!" Beamed Applebloom. Discord's DichotomyThe three sat on a park bench as a heavy feeling of awkwardness hung in the air. “What was that about being realtors?” Leered Scootaloo. “How was I supposed to know you needed a license and a bunch of bits to get into selling houses!” Argued Applebloom. “Guys, let’s stop arguing and actually come up with an idea we can go with.” Sighed Sweetie Belle. “Well, I guess we still can find someponies who need some help around here.” Conceded Applebloom as she lazily kicked her hooves to the dirt. “What a lovely idea!” Chimed Discord as he approached the fillies from out of nowhere. The fillies looked at each other, dazed. They were looking around the park; there was no way Discord could’ve walked up to them without notice. “Discord?” Gasped Applebloom; she and the others have only heard tales of the chaotic misdeeds committed by Discord. Except for Fluttershy and Spike, who at the very least defended the concept of his redemption. “I see you updated your look; very nice, how very sentimental.” Discord fawned as he pinched Applebloom’s cheek, stretching her flesh out by half a foot. Despite her skin and coat being pulled outward so far, it was only mildly painful but disturbing to watch. “Alright, cut to the chase; what do you want?” Snapped Scootaloo. Discord quickly let go of Applebloom’s cheek. A loud rubbery “thwap” sound echoed as her skin and coat slapped back into place. Applebloom grumbled as she rubbed her cheek, giving Discord an irritated look. Discord raised his hands up defensively as he smiled at the filly, “I only wanted to help you get your Cutie Marks; I overheard that you wanted to help the local ponies of Ponyville; in fact... I want to help the local ponies of Ponyville too! (Try saying that five times fast.).” Chuckled Discord. The three looked to one another before shrugging, “I don’t see why not.” Replied Sweetie Belle. “Great!” Exclaimed Discord as confetti fell from the sky, “There’s lots to do; since everyone is gone, you could take their place. Let’s see, Sweetie Belle, you could reopen Rarity’s Boutique, Scootaloo, perhaps you could be a party planner and Applebloom….” He’d chuckle, “Just help around the Orchard!” The girls looked to one another and shook their heads, “We actually work together to find our Cutie Mark; it’s kinda our thing.” Pressed Applebloom. “We’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders, after all.” Smirked Scootaloo. “Crusaders forever!” Exclaimed the three. “Charming.” Replied Discord as he began filing his claw, “Well, if you insist on your togetherness, why don’t you take care of Fluttershy’s animals or volunteer to help clear out the debris from Twilight’s house.” “Well, we already tried taking care of animals, and it didn't go so well.” Admitted Sweetie Belle. “Yeah, Spike tried to pawn some pets off to us so he could eat some sort of gem cake.” Scoffed Scootaloo. Discord crossed his arms, giving a rather unimpressed look, and sighed, “Is there anything you haven’t done?” Applebloom smiled, “Sorry, Discord, we’re just busy as the bees these days.” “Uh huh….” Discord said with growing disinterest, “Well, I guess you got it all figured out, but if you need me, I’ll just be helping the ponies of Ponyville.” “Okay.” “Sure.” “Have fun!” Discord grumbled before turning and stamping away defeatedly. "Maybe we should see if we can lend a hoof with Twilight's house." Suggested Applebloom. "It wouldn't hurt to look." Replied Sweetie Belle. "This is gonna suck." Sighed Scootaloo. Wreckage Wrap UpThe three were promptly put to the work; it was as simple as asking Mayor Mare what they could do to help. It was simple; it was brutal; it was.…grunt work. They were tasked with removing debris from the area, dragging large gems into wagons to be sent away. “Okay, girls, pull!” Exclaimed Applebloom, the three fillies quickly pulled a large crystal tied with rope and wrapped it around their torsos. They grunted and huffed as they pulled the large gem unto a wagon. The three collapsed as two Unicorns removed the ropes around their waists. “This…is exhausting….” panted Sweetie Belle. “Yeah, maybe…maybe we should go back to trying to sell real estate.” Smirked Scootaloo. Applebloom sighed, “Oh, come on, quit your belly-aching. I do work like this all the time.” “No offense Applebloom, but we aren’t exactly used to working like this,” Sweetie Said as she climbed out of the wagon with Scootaloo and Applebloom. “Yeah, we’re not Apples,” Nodded Scootaloo. “Neither are the rest of our friends and volunteers, but they’re still lending a hoof; now come on, girls, let’s clean this mess up!” The girls collapsed into the dirt as they let out a groan. “.....Maybe after a water break.” Conceded Applebloom After some water, the three return to their labor, pulling gems into the wagons headed to the Crystal Empire for recycling. These stones contained powerful magic, or at least that’s what Discord said. Who was sitting aloof on a pile of gemstones. “How are you helping again?” Groaned Scootaloo as she ripped a large stone from the pile. “I’m supervising.” Replied Discord as he filed his claws. “You can literally do anything; why can’t you just move the crystals into the wagons!?” Discord tsk’d, “Twilight wouldn’t want me to do EVERYTHING for you, would she? Besides, hard work builds character. Just look at your friend over there.” He’d gesture to Applebloom, dragging two heavy gems toward a wagon. Scootaloo sighed as she began dragging the large rock toward the wagon. Hours of hard labor beat down Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, but their friend Applebloom stood with the hardest of workers. While the two were exhausted and, by all accounts, were perfectly justified in calling it a day. Applebloom toiled. Her brow soaked with sweat; her yellow face had a distinctive red hue over it as she huffed and puffed. Her hooves stained with dirt and mud, but she forced herself forward as if she were a starved animal mere inches from food. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle trotted behind Applebloom and the large stone before pressing their heads against the hard crystal and pushing it while Applebloom pulled. The three quickly put the last gem of the day into the wagon. Applebloom fanned herself with Applejack’s hat as she began staring at the piece of clothing intimately. Her sister’s words from yesterday were panging against her head like a drum. “Whenever you’re alone or feeling down, take off your hat and look at it; remember that we’ll always be with you.” Her words stung like hot coals as Applebloom placed her sister’s hat atop of her head and huffed, “I gotta go; I need to help Big Mac and Granny Smith back at the Orchard.” “What!?” Exclaimed the girls, “You just worked a full day already!” Scootaloo said. “You can’t just burn the candle at both ends, Applebloom; you’ll wear yourself thin.” Insisted Sweetie Belle. “I’ll be fine; I’ll see y’all tomorrow for more volunteering, right?” Applebloom said as she faced the other girls. Scootaloo and Sweetie looked at one another, feeling somewhat uneasy. Truthfully this back-breaking volunteer work was not in the cards for them. It didn’t provide the Cutie Mark they were seeking, and the job had more than enough ponies for them to be excused but…. “Sure!” Squeaked Sweetie, “We’ll be here tomorrow!” Scootaloo remained silent before Sweetie Bell smacked her side with her hoof, “Oh, yeah! Totally…. we’ll be right back here tomorrow.” Applebloom smiled as she tipped her hat to her friends, “Great see you tomorrow.” “See you tomorrow….” Sighed Sweetie Belle. Familial Pride And A Crusader's CodeThe following day Applebloom awoke to the gentle rays of the dawn beaming down on her as she rose from her bedside and peered out the window next to her. She realized how low the morning sun was, the orangish-red orb barely peaking above the horizon. Collecting her hat hanging from the bedframe at the foot of her bed. She snugly placed the garb atop her head before quietly trotting into the kitchen, where Big Mac and Granny sat having their morning Coffee. Granny Smith looked over to the young filly with a surprised look on her face. “Good morning; I would’ve expected you to sleep in after working all day yesterday.” Smirked Granny. Big Mac yawned as he pushed a nearby chair out for Applebloom to sit; she’d quickly walk over before climbing atop the chair and sitting at the table with the rest of her family. She’d wonder what Applejack was doing by now; she could’ve guessed she was at least in The Crystal Empire. Her train of thought was interrupted by the unceremonious sound of her stomach growling and the mild gnawing pain paired with an ever-growing hunger. Applebloom slowly rose from her chair as she quickly examined what food had been prepared, when the staunch realization hit her like a ton of bricks as the sobering feeling woke up Applebloom entirely. Without Applejack, she couldn’t have her trademarked meals; instead, breakfast would be… “Grits and coffee for breakfast today.” Blurted Granny as she began taking a long sip of coffee from her tin cup, “Why don’t you try some coffee?” she’d innocently suggest. Big Mac passed Granny an odd look before turning his attention toward Applebloom. She’d sigh before fixing herself a bowl of grits, not forgetting to grab the cheese from the ice box. She wanted at least some semblance of flavor to start her day. Returning to the table, she’d look up at Granny.” “I guess I’ll try some coffee; I never had it before.” Shrugged Applebloom. “Say no more,” gingerly replied Granny as she poured her a steaming cup of coffee. Applebloom took the small tin cup between her hooves before raising the ‘glass’ to her lips, letting the black liquid enter her mouth. Her eyes widened as the foul, pungent taste of the drink assaulted her tongue. She wretch before spitting the liquid back into the cup and desperately rubbing her hooves against her tongue to attempt to remove any trace of that awful taste. Granny and Big Mac chuckled softly before Big Mac slid her a cup of water. Applebloom quickly chugged the beverage before panting heavily, “That was awful; how are y’all drinking that!?” “You get used to it; besides, you don’t really drink it for the taste; you drink it for the energy!” Granny said as she spooned a large helping of grits before shoving the spoon into her maul. “Yup.” Interjected Big Mac. “Isn’t there anything you can do to make it…taste better?” Suggested Applebloom. Granny scoffed, “Maybe if you’re some sort of sissy who drinks one of those fancy cappa whatchamacallits.” “I think I know what you’re talking about; actually, Rarity drinks them all the time whenever she goes to Sugar Cube Corner. A….cappuccino or….a latte?” Applebloom said as she rubbed her temple, attempting to fish out the answer in her groggy mind. “Well, whatever you call it, it can’t beat a good ole fashioned cup of black coffee, no sugar, no milk. No nonsense!” Proclaimed Granny. Applebloom passively dismissed Granny’s proclamation; what was so nonsensical about flavor? She decided not to question Granny; she had her reasons, but, Applebloom made a mental note to try some of that fancy coffee Rarity had or to at least try it with sugar and milk when no one was around. Shoveling the grits into her mouth, Applebloom lazily ate her food as she stared into the dull-looking meal; no amount of cheese or salt could save her from the boredom that was beginning to fester. A thought soon crossed her mind, “Granny, I need your advice on something?” “Eh, oh um, sure thing, sweetheart, what is it?” Inquired Granny. “Yesterday, when I was helping volunteer, I kinda pushed Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle into helping me volunteer and doing more work today. I don’t think I was doing the right thing….” “Why’s that?” “Well….I guess I did it for selfish reasons; I wanted to prove to MYSELF that I could be capable of taking Applejack’s workload, but I used our goal of finding a Cutie Mark to push my friends into doing something; they really didn’t want to….”.’ “Pride is a fickle thing, ain’t it? We Apples are known for our pridefulness and our stubborn streak as much as we’re known for our massive harvests. So trust me when Big Mac and I say we understand where your need to prove yerself comes from. But believe me when I say you oughta apologize and be upfront with them.” Granny said before slurping up another bite of grits. “Eyup.” Nodded Big Mac as he sipped his coffee. “Well….I guess I could apologize after my morning chores….” “Good thinking; let’s finish up and start our day y’all!” The mid-day sun hung high in the air as Applebloom trotted toward the wreckage site, unsurprised to see Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle patiently waiting for their comrade to arrive. As Applebloom approached, she humbly held her hat in between her front hooves as she bowed her head down in shame. “Y’all, I just wanna get something off my chest. I didn’t mean to force you two into volunteering; I just wanted to do right by Applejack and my family. I didn’t mean to use The Cutie Mark Crusaders to prop up my family dealings.” Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle quickly trotted up to Applebloom, hugging her tightly, “Dude, we know you’re going through it right now, and we completely understand and support you.” Insisted Scootaloo. “Yeah! We just don’t want you to go overboard or be focused on just working; we are just fillies after all.” Smiled Sweetie. As the girls let go of Applebloom, she looked to her comrades, her expression touched by their understanding and kindness, “So you’re not mad?” “Well, you can’t REALLY be mad at being told to do volunteer work.” Admitted Scootaloo, “Even if it makes you….really sore…..like really really sore, so sore you can hardly move and-” Sweetie Belle quickly covered Scootaloo’s mouth with her hoof, “It’s hard work, is what she’s trying to say; just take it easy on us, okay?” “Okay….” Smiled Applebloom, she’d promptly put Applejack’s hat atop her head before turning to her friends, “So what do you want to do now?” “We could volunteer for a little bit, and I finally figured out a way we could all get to Cloudsdale.” Beamed Scootaloo. “Oh great….” Groaned Sweetie Belle, “This again.” “Oh, come on, it’s genius, Applebloom. You have to hear me out!” The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The TreeThough this day of labor had ended for Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, Applebloom’s work had only just begun. The evening sun hung low, the sky covered with an orange hue, as the yellow sun burned brightly. Applebloom sighed, knowing she needed to work tonight to catch up on the chores she had neglected earlier today. Once she arrived home, she quickly galloped into the barn, got herself a barrel, and dragged it into the Orchard before bucking a nearby tree. It had been about twenty minutes of apple bucking when a bellowing voice interrupted Applebloom’s train of thought, “Bit late for apple bucking, ain’t it?” Applebloom turned to see Big Mac with a lantern resting on his side; the large Stallion towered over her as he gave the young filly a knowing look. Applebloom immediately relented, “I know it’s late, but I have a good reason for all of this!” Big Mac raised his brow, gesturing his head for Applebloom to speak. “Well, I was volunteering with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle to help clean up the wreckage at Twilight’s old castle, but then I realized by the time I was finished, I needed to get home and do my chores for the Orchard. I know I should’ve done my chores first before I left and went off working like that, but tomorrow I’ll work on my chores first!” Exclaimed Applebloom as she nervously looked up to Big Mac. Big Mac took a moment to process everything she said, before slowly uttering the words, “You’ll work early in the morning after burning the candle at both ends?” Applebloom slowly nodded, “If I have to.” Big Mac chuckled, “Let’s go home.” The walk home was silent, with only the sound of their hooves trotting over the soft ground. It being the only sound to accompany them on their walk home. The sun had set by the time they were home, as the moon rose in the sun’s stead. As they stepped inside the candle-lit home, Big Mac escorted Applebloom to Granny. Granny looked up from the book she was reading, her expression masked by a thin veil of darkness with only her eyes and muzzle illuminated by the candle’s dim glow. “Where were you all day?” Inquired Granny; her tone was neutral, absent of the anger and disappointment Applebloom expected; she was shocked but remained composed. “I volunteered in Ponyville and help clean up Twilight’s old house.” Replied Applebloom, thanking the stars that the candle’s dim light couldn’t reveal Applebloom’s ever-growing uneasiness. “That so? Well, what are you doing home so late? Volunteer work ended by sunset!” Snapped Granny as she leaned from her chair. She quickly relaxed and promptly continued in a more apologetic tone, “Oh, I get it; you must’ve been with your little friends.” “Nope.” Replied Big Mac. “Then what were you doing?” Questioned Granny as her shadowy figure sat up in piqued interest. “I was….tending the Orchard.” Gulped Applebloom; she squeezed her eyelids shut and braced herself as she prepared for the tirade or scolding of a lifetime. But instead of screaming, shaming, or scolding, what met the young filly was Granny Smith’s howling, cackling laughter. “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, does it, Big Mac!?” Cackled Granny. Big Mac bellowed a hardy laugh, “Yup.” “So you’re not mad?” Applebloom asked nervously. “Mad? Why would I be mad? This is too rich; if only Applejack were here, she’d be so proud of you.” Chortled Granny. “Proud?” Replied a dazed Applebloom, “Why?” “Applebloom, you’re willing to step up and be the bigger mare, working long hours and burning the candle at both ends. You would’ve made Applejack cry tears of joy if she saw you….she would’ve also told you to knock it off!” Chuckled Granny. “What, why!? Isn’t being a responsible, hard worker everything she would want me to be?” Granny smith sighed as she got up from the chair and approached Applebloom with her candle, revealing her tender expression to the young filly. A gentle smile paired with eyes beaming with pride and sympathy. “Yes, but you can’t work yourself to death, Applebloom; spare yourself from the same lesson she learned! Do you remember when she tried to harvest the entire Orchard when Big Mac hurt himself? Or when she tried to run the Apple Family Reunion by herself?” “Yes, but-” “But nothin!” Interrupted Granny, “If she couldn’t do it, then you certainly can’t, which is why I’m not asking; I’m tellin’ you to knock it off!” Applebloom sighed, “I just don’t want to disappoint anypony; I know I have responsibilities; It's always been hard, but it’s different now.” Insisted Applebloom. “Different how?” questioned the elderly pony, her brow stiffened as she gave Applebloom a cock-eyed look. “Because Applejack isn’t here, and now I gotta step up to the challenge.” Insisted Applebloom. “It don’t mean you have to do it alone or kill yerself while doing it, Applebloom; we’ll all be here, right, Big Mac?” “Yup.” Nodded Big Mac. “So promise me you won’t overwork yourself.” “But-” “Promise me!” Squawked Granny. Applebloom took a deep breath before letting out a soft sigh, “Okay….” Granny Smith wrapped her left front leg around Applebloom as she pulled her into a hug, “See, wasn’t that easy?” Applebloom smiled before giving a slight nod to Granny, “Now, everypony, get ready for bed; we have work to do tomorrow!” Barked Granny Smith as she let go of Applebloom. “Good night.” Fawned Big Mac as he patted Applebloom’s head. The young filly sighed before muttering, “Good night.”
Parting Gifts And Love LanguagesToday was the day, the day everything would change for the Apples; one of their own would venture off to unknown lands and leave them by their lonesome. It wasn’t a completely foreign concept to the Apple Family, especially to the Apple Family at large. But the difference being that one Apple would be taken from the bushel, taken from the bundle, if you will. But all of them put on a brave face for Twilight; it wasn’t her fault it was like this, and it wasn’t the first time this family had to deal with significant changes. But it didn’t make it any less painful. “More eggs, Twilight?” Offered Applebloom. “Please!” nodded Twilight as she moved her plate toward Applebloom with her magic. Good manners, just as Applejack had taught her, and she hadn’t forgotten to give a polite smile to their guest. Each minute was more agonizing than the last; every second passed was another moment closer to when Applejack would leave. “May I be excused?” Applebloom quietly asked; she wasn’t that hungry; how could she? Today had her stomach in knots. “Sure thing, sugar cube, be sure to wash your plate.” Pressed Applejack. “Yes, ma’am…” Murmured Applebloom, as she washed her plate, Granny Smith playfully nudged her, “Put some more pep in yer step, youngin!” chortled Granny. Applebloom frowned, giving her elder a sorrowful gaze; Granny paused, looking over to make sure Twilight wasn’t in earshot, “Listen, I know it’s not easy, but you need to get anything and everything off your chest less you miss your chance to speak yer piece.” “Okay…Granny?” “Yes, dearie?” “Are you worried about Applejack too?” Applebloom said as she looked up toward the older mare. “Applejack has her wits about her; she’s strong and has her friends by her side. I couldn’t ask for better folk to watch her, but I can’t help but worry." The young filly sighed, “I guess you’re right, but when’s the right time to talk to her?” “When you got your thoughts altogether, you don’t wanna come up to her when you’re weak in the knees and spewing non-sense, right Big Mac?” Big Mac looked over from the sink and nodded, “Yup.” Applebloom looked over to Big Mac, “Are you worried, Big Mac?” The older stallion took a deep breath, “Yup….” Applebloom couldn’t help but smile; knowing that her older brother was just as nervous and uneasy made the pain a little more bearable. “Thank y’all; I’ll be sure to talk to her then.” The young filly walked toward Applejack’s room; she could hear a pleasant hum from Twilight from the guest room and Spike’s nasally singing paired with a loud sneeze from the bathroom. If it weren’t for the circumstances, she wouldn’t of minded having Twilight and Spike around the house. They made lovely additions to the home. Applebloom approached Applejack’s bedroom door, giving it a firm knock with her left front hoof. “Come in!” Called Applejack. Applebloom pushed the door open before stepping inside; she took one last look inside Applejack’s room. She took a mental image of Applejack's room with her things. Applejack quickly packed her essentials, lassos, and a few family photos before turning to face Applebloom. “Good morning, sugar cube; I noticed you didn’t eat much breakfast today. Is something wrong?” Applejack fretted as she slowly turned to face the younger filly fully before she’d lean in and examine her, “You’re not under that spell still, are you?” Applebloom smiled as she playfully scoffed, “No, I’m fine…. I’m just worried about you; we all are!.... Why do you have to go?” Pleaded Applebloom as her expression soured like milk. Applejack took a deep breath as she sat down on the bed and patted her hoof next to her. Applebloom slowly climbed up and sat next to her older sister, “Applebloom, we need to have ‘the talk,’ now I know you’re a bit young, but it’s time you learn about the responsibility we Apples have.” She’d quickly fish out a few photos from her bag as she laid them out for Applebloom to see, “You know that Granny’s folks helped build the Orchard heck, they’re responsible for building Ponyville as we know it and let me tell ya building up this Orchard and the town wasn’t easy for them.” She said as she gestured to their great grandparents, gently tapping the glass frame with her hoof. “I know,” sighed Applebloom, “I know that I should be thankful that we don’t have to work as hard as they did, but it’s not about working, Applejack; it’s about not never seeing you again,” Applebloom admitted as she bowed her head. Applejack paused as she slowly collected her thoughts; the older mare looked down at Applebloom, “Applebloom, I know it won’t be easy, but you’re as tough as they come. I promise I’ll return as quickly as possible and in one piece.” She’d shove dApplebloom playfully as she winked at her. Applebloom chuckled as she smiled, “Okay…but I’m holding you to that promise!” “I wouldn’t have expected anything less than that.” Smiled Applejack. A few hours passed, and despite the talk with Applejack, Applebloom still felt uneasy, a weight that sunk into her stomach that she just couldn’t shake off. Applebloom sighed; her train of thought was interrupted by Twilight’s frantic pacing. “Books, check, gear check, Spike?” Spike let out a thundering sneeze from the other room, “Check, check, check!” She’d quickly look over to Applebloom, “Applebloom, I haven’t seen you since breakfast. Is everything alright?” Applebloom quickly put on her best smile for Twilight, “Yeah, just a bit drowsy,” she’d let out a forced yawn. Twilight gently rubbed Applebloom’s head, “Well, maybe you'll find some time to take a nap today, now….what else do I need….” The Alicorn quickly turned to her saddlebags and wares as she began mumbling to herself. Applebloom turned away from Twilight before she went to check on Applejack, who was with the other members of the Apple family, “Write a letter to our extended family; maybe we could find someone to help the Orchard while I’m gone.” Suggested Applejack. “Horse-feathers!” Scoffed Granny Smith, “We can take care of the Orchard ourselves!” “Yup.” Nodded Big Mac. “Come on, y’all, don’t let our pride blind us from a good harvest. Will y’all promise me to ask for help if you need it?” Pleaded Applejack as she gazed at the older ponies with her puppy-dog eyes. Granny sighed, “Fine, we’ll let you know if anything comes up. In exchange, you’ll write to us once in a while!” Applejack smiled, “I was planning on doing that anyway.” She’d wrap her front legs around Granny and Big Mac, squeezing them tightly as she sighed, “I’m going to miss y’all.” “Ahem.” Coughed Applebloom. Applejack turned around, playfully roughing up Applebloom’s hair, “You too, sugar cube.” “Got everything together Applejack?” Chimed Twilight as she approached the group with Spike. Applejack approached Twilight, “Er, sugar cube? I’m going to talk to Applebloom. I’ll catch up with you.” Twilight slowly turned around as she hoisted her saddlebags over her back, “Sure thing Applejack, come on, Spike, let’s not keep the others waiting; we got a big day ahead of us. We’ll be going to your favorite place.” “Heh, I am rather popular with the locals, aren’t I?” nudged Spike as he flashed a toothy smile at Twilight. Twilight shook her head as she playfully rolled her eyes and soon departed toward the train station. Applejack turned to Applebloom, “I want you to have something, hold still.” Applejack used her teeth to carefully remove the bow from Applebloom’s mane before carefully tying the bow around the brim of her hat. The process proved to be arduous without magic or claws. But she managed. Carefully placing the hat on Appleblooms head, the young filly looked at Applejack with confusion, “What are you doing? This is your hat!” “I know; I want you to take care of it while I’m gone; that way you’ll always got a piece of daddy and me. Whenever you’re alone or feeling down, take off your hat and look at it; remember that we’ll always be with you.” Applebloom quickly grappled Applejack as she clung to her older sister tightly, “I’ll take good care of it, I promise.” Applebloom said as she desperately fought off the tears, threatening to escape her eyes. Applejack looked down at the young filly before shoving the hat to the top of her head, “I know you will….shoot I gotta go, I’m gonna be late for the train!” She’d give Applebloom, one last squeeze before galloping out the door. “Take care of the Orchard while I’m gone y’all!” “We will!” Squawked Granny, “Be sure to get us some souvenirs!” Big Mac erupted into tears as he began sobbing, and as he waved goodbye, Applebloom took from her brother before bursting into tears herself. Granny Smith sighed, “Oh come now you big babies, if you don’t stop yer bellyaching….I might cry myself!”
The Life Of A CrusaderA day had passed since Applejack left, and the effects were immediate. Just this morning alone, Applebloom didn’t wake up to the sound of her older Sister trotting down the hallway and into the kitchen to prepare a fresh batch of coffee. Little things like that added up throughout the day. The distant echo of her sister bucking a tree, the sound of her small talk with the cows as she milked them, or the excited yell from finding a truffle were all missing. Applebloom sighed; she desperately needed some noise to distract her from the noticeable absence of her sister. She’d walk to Ponyville, noticing the dozens of Stallions trotting two and fro from the wreckage site that was once Twilight Sparkle’s home. The young filly took a moment to observe the sight. The amount of destruction caused by one single pony was shocking, to say the least; she thanked the stars that nopony didn’t get hurt by the massive castle collapsing. As she made her way through the dozens of ponies going through town, she’d eventually make it to Sugar Cube Corner; she’d noticed Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle sitting at a table and quickly trotted toward them. “Hey y’all, mind if I join you?” “Like you even have to ask!” Snarked Scootaloo. “We just got here ourselves, have a seat.” Offered Sweetie Belle. Applebloom slid into the booth and sat next to Sweetie Belle; she took a deep breath as she relaxed; perhaps a milkshake or two could temper her mood, “What’s our plan of action for our Cutie Marks Crusaders?” “Well, if Rainbow Dash is going on some fantastical adventure with her friends, why don’t we?” Suggested Scootaloo, as she quickly focused on Mrs. Cake approaching. “Hello, everypony; what can I get you today?” Smiled Mrs. Cake. “I’ll have a chocolate milkshake!” Exclaimed Scootaloo. “I’ll have butter pecan, please.” requested Applebloom. “Mint chocolate for me, please!” Replied Sweetie Belle Mrs. Cake nodded as she gingerly wrote down their order before walking away toward the kitchen; Applebloom then turned back to Scootaloo, “I can’t; I have my responsibilities to the Orchard.” She’d slowly take off her hat, “To Applejack….” “Wait, is that Applejack’s hat?” Scootaloo observed the hat intently as if it were some object of power or relic of ancient history. “Yeah, she gave it to me before she left for the Crystal Empire.” Applebloom slowly placed the hat atop her head. “I like what you did with your old bow, makes it…you.” Smiled Sweetie Belle, “So we can’t go on an adventure, maybe we could do some….uh realtor work?” Scootaloo laughed, “Really? Being a realtor, what gives you that idea?” “I mean, they ARE rebuilding Twilight’s house; maybe we could help somepony else find a place to live.” Suggested Sweetie Belle. “.....Girls! I think I got it; maybe the answer is helping ponies!” Applebloom exclaimed as she slammed her hooves on the table excitedly, “Think about it, we’ve done just about everything under the sun, but we’ve only been trying to help ourselves; what if our special talent is helping others?” “Sooo….are you saying we should….sell houses?” Questioned Scootaloo as she scratched her head in confusion. “Maybe, we just have to give it a try.” Smiled Applebloom. Mrs. Cake soon returned, placing a silver tray full of milkshakes in front of the fillies, “Here you go, enjoy!” The fillies greedily took the milkshakes as they contently began slurping down the ice cream. “Mmm, okay, after our shakes, we can look into helping ponies via real estate.” Gulped Sweetie Belle. "I think we're seriously running out of ideas." Blurted Scootaloo. "Better than your 'sky diving from Cloudsdale' idea." Smirked Applebloom. "I forgot you guys can't walk on clouds!" Groaned Scootaloo. "You also forgot about the whole getting to Cloudsdale bit." Corrected Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo huffed as she crossed her front legs and grumpily slurped her shake. "Forget about it; we have realtor work to worry about!" Beamed Applebloom.
Discord's DichotomyThe three sat on a park bench as a heavy feeling of awkwardness hung in the air. “What was that about being realtors?” Leered Scootaloo. “How was I supposed to know you needed a license and a bunch of bits to get into selling houses!” Argued Applebloom. “Guys, let’s stop arguing and actually come up with an idea we can go with.” Sighed Sweetie Belle. “Well, I guess we still can find someponies who need some help around here.” Conceded Applebloom as she lazily kicked her hooves to the dirt. “What a lovely idea!” Chimed Discord as he approached the fillies from out of nowhere. The fillies looked at each other, dazed. They were looking around the park; there was no way Discord could’ve walked up to them without notice. “Discord?” Gasped Applebloom; she and the others have only heard tales of the chaotic misdeeds committed by Discord. Except for Fluttershy and Spike, who at the very least defended the concept of his redemption. “I see you updated your look; very nice, how very sentimental.” Discord fawned as he pinched Applebloom’s cheek, stretching her flesh out by half a foot. Despite her skin and coat being pulled outward so far, it was only mildly painful but disturbing to watch. “Alright, cut to the chase; what do you want?” Snapped Scootaloo. Discord quickly let go of Applebloom’s cheek. A loud rubbery “thwap” sound echoed as her skin and coat slapped back into place. Applebloom grumbled as she rubbed her cheek, giving Discord an irritated look. Discord raised his hands up defensively as he smiled at the filly, “I only wanted to help you get your Cutie Marks; I overheard that you wanted to help the local ponies of Ponyville; in fact... I want to help the local ponies of Ponyville too! (Try saying that five times fast.).” Chuckled Discord. The three looked to one another before shrugging, “I don’t see why not.” Replied Sweetie Belle. “Great!” Exclaimed Discord as confetti fell from the sky, “There’s lots to do; since everyone is gone, you could take their place. Let’s see, Sweetie Belle, you could reopen Rarity’s Boutique, Scootaloo, perhaps you could be a party planner and Applebloom….” He’d chuckle, “Just help around the Orchard!” The girls looked to one another and shook their heads, “We actually work together to find our Cutie Mark; it’s kinda our thing.” Pressed Applebloom. “We’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders, after all.” Smirked Scootaloo. “Crusaders forever!” Exclaimed the three. “Charming.” Replied Discord as he began filing his claw, “Well, if you insist on your togetherness, why don’t you take care of Fluttershy’s animals or volunteer to help clear out the debris from Twilight’s house.” “Well, we already tried taking care of animals, and it didn't go so well.” Admitted Sweetie Belle. “Yeah, Spike tried to pawn some pets off to us so he could eat some sort of gem cake.” Scoffed Scootaloo. Discord crossed his arms, giving a rather unimpressed look, and sighed, “Is there anything you haven’t done?” Applebloom smiled, “Sorry, Discord, we’re just busy as the bees these days.” “Uh huh….” Discord said with growing disinterest, “Well, I guess you got it all figured out, but if you need me, I’ll just be helping the ponies of Ponyville.” “Okay.” “Sure.” “Have fun!” Discord grumbled before turning and stamping away defeatedly. "Maybe we should see if we can lend a hoof with Twilight's house." Suggested Applebloom. "It wouldn't hurt to look." Replied Sweetie Belle. "This is gonna suck." Sighed Scootaloo.
Wreckage Wrap UpThe three were promptly put to the work; it was as simple as asking Mayor Mare what they could do to help. It was simple; it was brutal; it was.…grunt work. They were tasked with removing debris from the area, dragging large gems into wagons to be sent away. “Okay, girls, pull!” Exclaimed Applebloom, the three fillies quickly pulled a large crystal tied with rope and wrapped it around their torsos. They grunted and huffed as they pulled the large gem unto a wagon. The three collapsed as two Unicorns removed the ropes around their waists. “This…is exhausting….” panted Sweetie Belle. “Yeah, maybe…maybe we should go back to trying to sell real estate.” Smirked Scootaloo. Applebloom sighed, “Oh, come on, quit your belly-aching. I do work like this all the time.” “No offense Applebloom, but we aren’t exactly used to working like this,” Sweetie Said as she climbed out of the wagon with Scootaloo and Applebloom. “Yeah, we’re not Apples,” Nodded Scootaloo. “Neither are the rest of our friends and volunteers, but they’re still lending a hoof; now come on, girls, let’s clean this mess up!” The girls collapsed into the dirt as they let out a groan. “.....Maybe after a water break.” Conceded Applebloom After some water, the three return to their labor, pulling gems into the wagons headed to the Crystal Empire for recycling. These stones contained powerful magic, or at least that’s what Discord said. Who was sitting aloof on a pile of gemstones. “How are you helping again?” Groaned Scootaloo as she ripped a large stone from the pile. “I’m supervising.” Replied Discord as he filed his claws. “You can literally do anything; why can’t you just move the crystals into the wagons!?” Discord tsk’d, “Twilight wouldn’t want me to do EVERYTHING for you, would she? Besides, hard work builds character. Just look at your friend over there.” He’d gesture to Applebloom, dragging two heavy gems toward a wagon. Scootaloo sighed as she began dragging the large rock toward the wagon. Hours of hard labor beat down Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, but their friend Applebloom stood with the hardest of workers. While the two were exhausted and, by all accounts, were perfectly justified in calling it a day. Applebloom toiled. Her brow soaked with sweat; her yellow face had a distinctive red hue over it as she huffed and puffed. Her hooves stained with dirt and mud, but she forced herself forward as if she were a starved animal mere inches from food. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle trotted behind Applebloom and the large stone before pressing their heads against the hard crystal and pushing it while Applebloom pulled. The three quickly put the last gem of the day into the wagon. Applebloom fanned herself with Applejack’s hat as she began staring at the piece of clothing intimately. Her sister’s words from yesterday were panging against her head like a drum. “Whenever you’re alone or feeling down, take off your hat and look at it; remember that we’ll always be with you.” Her words stung like hot coals as Applebloom placed her sister’s hat atop of her head and huffed, “I gotta go; I need to help Big Mac and Granny Smith back at the Orchard.” “What!?” Exclaimed the girls, “You just worked a full day already!” Scootaloo said. “You can’t just burn the candle at both ends, Applebloom; you’ll wear yourself thin.” Insisted Sweetie Belle. “I’ll be fine; I’ll see y’all tomorrow for more volunteering, right?” Applebloom said as she faced the other girls. Scootaloo and Sweetie looked at one another, feeling somewhat uneasy. Truthfully this back-breaking volunteer work was not in the cards for them. It didn’t provide the Cutie Mark they were seeking, and the job had more than enough ponies for them to be excused but…. “Sure!” Squeaked Sweetie, “We’ll be here tomorrow!” Scootaloo remained silent before Sweetie Bell smacked her side with her hoof, “Oh, yeah! Totally…. we’ll be right back here tomorrow.” Applebloom smiled as she tipped her hat to her friends, “Great see you tomorrow.” “See you tomorrow….” Sighed Sweetie Belle.
Familial Pride And A Crusader's CodeThe following day Applebloom awoke to the gentle rays of the dawn beaming down on her as she rose from her bedside and peered out the window next to her. She realized how low the morning sun was, the orangish-red orb barely peaking above the horizon. Collecting her hat hanging from the bedframe at the foot of her bed. She snugly placed the garb atop her head before quietly trotting into the kitchen, where Big Mac and Granny sat having their morning Coffee. Granny Smith looked over to the young filly with a surprised look on her face. “Good morning; I would’ve expected you to sleep in after working all day yesterday.” Smirked Granny. Big Mac yawned as he pushed a nearby chair out for Applebloom to sit; she’d quickly walk over before climbing atop the chair and sitting at the table with the rest of her family. She’d wonder what Applejack was doing by now; she could’ve guessed she was at least in The Crystal Empire. Her train of thought was interrupted by the unceremonious sound of her stomach growling and the mild gnawing pain paired with an ever-growing hunger. Applebloom slowly rose from her chair as she quickly examined what food had been prepared, when the staunch realization hit her like a ton of bricks as the sobering feeling woke up Applebloom entirely. Without Applejack, she couldn’t have her trademarked meals; instead, breakfast would be… “Grits and coffee for breakfast today.” Blurted Granny as she began taking a long sip of coffee from her tin cup, “Why don’t you try some coffee?” she’d innocently suggest. Big Mac passed Granny an odd look before turning his attention toward Applebloom. She’d sigh before fixing herself a bowl of grits, not forgetting to grab the cheese from the ice box. She wanted at least some semblance of flavor to start her day. Returning to the table, she’d look up at Granny.” “I guess I’ll try some coffee; I never had it before.” Shrugged Applebloom. “Say no more,” gingerly replied Granny as she poured her a steaming cup of coffee. Applebloom took the small tin cup between her hooves before raising the ‘glass’ to her lips, letting the black liquid enter her mouth. Her eyes widened as the foul, pungent taste of the drink assaulted her tongue. She wretch before spitting the liquid back into the cup and desperately rubbing her hooves against her tongue to attempt to remove any trace of that awful taste. Granny and Big Mac chuckled softly before Big Mac slid her a cup of water. Applebloom quickly chugged the beverage before panting heavily, “That was awful; how are y’all drinking that!?” “You get used to it; besides, you don’t really drink it for the taste; you drink it for the energy!” Granny said as she spooned a large helping of grits before shoving the spoon into her maul. “Yup.” Interjected Big Mac. “Isn’t there anything you can do to make it…taste better?” Suggested Applebloom. Granny scoffed, “Maybe if you’re some sort of sissy who drinks one of those fancy cappa whatchamacallits.” “I think I know what you’re talking about; actually, Rarity drinks them all the time whenever she goes to Sugar Cube Corner. A….cappuccino or….a latte?” Applebloom said as she rubbed her temple, attempting to fish out the answer in her groggy mind. “Well, whatever you call it, it can’t beat a good ole fashioned cup of black coffee, no sugar, no milk. No nonsense!” Proclaimed Granny. Applebloom passively dismissed Granny’s proclamation; what was so nonsensical about flavor? She decided not to question Granny; she had her reasons, but, Applebloom made a mental note to try some of that fancy coffee Rarity had or to at least try it with sugar and milk when no one was around. Shoveling the grits into her mouth, Applebloom lazily ate her food as she stared into the dull-looking meal; no amount of cheese or salt could save her from the boredom that was beginning to fester. A thought soon crossed her mind, “Granny, I need your advice on something?” “Eh, oh um, sure thing, sweetheart, what is it?” Inquired Granny. “Yesterday, when I was helping volunteer, I kinda pushed Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle into helping me volunteer and doing more work today. I don’t think I was doing the right thing….” “Why’s that?” “Well….I guess I did it for selfish reasons; I wanted to prove to MYSELF that I could be capable of taking Applejack’s workload, but I used our goal of finding a Cutie Mark to push my friends into doing something; they really didn’t want to….”.’ “Pride is a fickle thing, ain’t it? We Apples are known for our pridefulness and our stubborn streak as much as we’re known for our massive harvests. So trust me when Big Mac and I say we understand where your need to prove yerself comes from. But believe me when I say you oughta apologize and be upfront with them.” Granny said before slurping up another bite of grits. “Eyup.” Nodded Big Mac as he sipped his coffee. “Well….I guess I could apologize after my morning chores….” “Good thinking; let’s finish up and start our day y’all!” The mid-day sun hung high in the air as Applebloom trotted toward the wreckage site, unsurprised to see Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle patiently waiting for their comrade to arrive. As Applebloom approached, she humbly held her hat in between her front hooves as she bowed her head down in shame. “Y’all, I just wanna get something off my chest. I didn’t mean to force you two into volunteering; I just wanted to do right by Applejack and my family. I didn’t mean to use The Cutie Mark Crusaders to prop up my family dealings.” Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle quickly trotted up to Applebloom, hugging her tightly, “Dude, we know you’re going through it right now, and we completely understand and support you.” Insisted Scootaloo. “Yeah! We just don’t want you to go overboard or be focused on just working; we are just fillies after all.” Smiled Sweetie. As the girls let go of Applebloom, she looked to her comrades, her expression touched by their understanding and kindness, “So you’re not mad?” “Well, you can’t REALLY be mad at being told to do volunteer work.” Admitted Scootaloo, “Even if it makes you….really sore…..like really really sore, so sore you can hardly move and-” Sweetie Belle quickly covered Scootaloo’s mouth with her hoof, “It’s hard work, is what she’s trying to say; just take it easy on us, okay?” “Okay….” Smiled Applebloom, she’d promptly put Applejack’s hat atop her head before turning to her friends, “So what do you want to do now?” “We could volunteer for a little bit, and I finally figured out a way we could all get to Cloudsdale.” Beamed Scootaloo. “Oh great….” Groaned Sweetie Belle, “This again.” “Oh, come on, it’s genius, Applebloom. You have to hear me out!”
The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The TreeThough this day of labor had ended for Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, Applebloom’s work had only just begun. The evening sun hung low, the sky covered with an orange hue, as the yellow sun burned brightly. Applebloom sighed, knowing she needed to work tonight to catch up on the chores she had neglected earlier today. Once she arrived home, she quickly galloped into the barn, got herself a barrel, and dragged it into the Orchard before bucking a nearby tree. It had been about twenty minutes of apple bucking when a bellowing voice interrupted Applebloom’s train of thought, “Bit late for apple bucking, ain’t it?” Applebloom turned to see Big Mac with a lantern resting on his side; the large Stallion towered over her as he gave the young filly a knowing look. Applebloom immediately relented, “I know it’s late, but I have a good reason for all of this!” Big Mac raised his brow, gesturing his head for Applebloom to speak. “Well, I was volunteering with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle to help clean up the wreckage at Twilight’s old castle, but then I realized by the time I was finished, I needed to get home and do my chores for the Orchard. I know I should’ve done my chores first before I left and went off working like that, but tomorrow I’ll work on my chores first!” Exclaimed Applebloom as she nervously looked up to Big Mac. Big Mac took a moment to process everything she said, before slowly uttering the words, “You’ll work early in the morning after burning the candle at both ends?” Applebloom slowly nodded, “If I have to.” Big Mac chuckled, “Let’s go home.” The walk home was silent, with only the sound of their hooves trotting over the soft ground. It being the only sound to accompany them on their walk home. The sun had set by the time they were home, as the moon rose in the sun’s stead. As they stepped inside the candle-lit home, Big Mac escorted Applebloom to Granny. Granny looked up from the book she was reading, her expression masked by a thin veil of darkness with only her eyes and muzzle illuminated by the candle’s dim glow. “Where were you all day?” Inquired Granny; her tone was neutral, absent of the anger and disappointment Applebloom expected; she was shocked but remained composed. “I volunteered in Ponyville and help clean up Twilight’s old house.” Replied Applebloom, thanking the stars that the candle’s dim light couldn’t reveal Applebloom’s ever-growing uneasiness. “That so? Well, what are you doing home so late? Volunteer work ended by sunset!” Snapped Granny as she leaned from her chair. She quickly relaxed and promptly continued in a more apologetic tone, “Oh, I get it; you must’ve been with your little friends.” “Nope.” Replied Big Mac. “Then what were you doing?” Questioned Granny as her shadowy figure sat up in piqued interest. “I was….tending the Orchard.” Gulped Applebloom; she squeezed her eyelids shut and braced herself as she prepared for the tirade or scolding of a lifetime. But instead of screaming, shaming, or scolding, what met the young filly was Granny Smith’s howling, cackling laughter. “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, does it, Big Mac!?” Cackled Granny. Big Mac bellowed a hardy laugh, “Yup.” “So you’re not mad?” Applebloom asked nervously. “Mad? Why would I be mad? This is too rich; if only Applejack were here, she’d be so proud of you.” Chortled Granny. “Proud?” Replied a dazed Applebloom, “Why?” “Applebloom, you’re willing to step up and be the bigger mare, working long hours and burning the candle at both ends. You would’ve made Applejack cry tears of joy if she saw you….she would’ve also told you to knock it off!” Chuckled Granny. “What, why!? Isn’t being a responsible, hard worker everything she would want me to be?” Granny smith sighed as she got up from the chair and approached Applebloom with her candle, revealing her tender expression to the young filly. A gentle smile paired with eyes beaming with pride and sympathy. “Yes, but you can’t work yourself to death, Applebloom; spare yourself from the same lesson she learned! Do you remember when she tried to harvest the entire Orchard when Big Mac hurt himself? Or when she tried to run the Apple Family Reunion by herself?” “Yes, but-” “But nothin!” Interrupted Granny, “If she couldn’t do it, then you certainly can’t, which is why I’m not asking; I’m tellin’ you to knock it off!” Applebloom sighed, “I just don’t want to disappoint anypony; I know I have responsibilities; It's always been hard, but it’s different now.” Insisted Applebloom. “Different how?” questioned the elderly pony, her brow stiffened as she gave Applebloom a cock-eyed look. “Because Applejack isn’t here, and now I gotta step up to the challenge.” Insisted Applebloom. “It don’t mean you have to do it alone or kill yerself while doing it, Applebloom; we’ll all be here, right, Big Mac?” “Yup.” Nodded Big Mac. “So promise me you won’t overwork yourself.” “But-” “Promise me!” Squawked Granny. Applebloom took a deep breath before letting out a soft sigh, “Okay….” Granny Smith wrapped her left front leg around Applebloom as she pulled her into a hug, “See, wasn’t that easy?” Applebloom smiled before giving a slight nod to Granny, “Now, everypony, get ready for bed; we have work to do tomorrow!” Barked Granny Smith as she let go of Applebloom. “Good night.” Fawned Big Mac as he patted Applebloom’s head. The young filly sighed before muttering, “Good night.”
