Night Applesby RangerBeefChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 6Chapter 8Chapter 7Chapter 9Just a Little FunChapter 1Big Mac huffed as he shrugged the plow off. He reveled in this portion of the back fields. It felt like his own private playground from time to time. The main farm had always kept him more than busy, so he'd never had much of a hobby. But now, in this small patch of land, far behind the farm house, and just a little out of the way, he'd found an area to call his own. He looked over what he considered his private field and smiled. Several plots in the ground glowed dimly as Zecora said they would. He inspected each and covered a few with some extra dirt. These were apple trees he wanted to keep special from the family. He wanted to surprise them. Wanted to show Granny Smith that zap apples, though delicious, were not the only special kind of apple the world had to offer. The particular kind of apple he was growing he was mildly unsure about. Zecora had said that these kinds of apple trees were fragile. She had called them, usiku trees. She said they were a special kind of apple tree from her homeland that produced a very special "night apple." She claimed their beauty was rivaled only by their exquisite taste. Big Mac crossed the small field one more time. Satisfied that each potential tree had been given the utmost care and attention it deserved, he picked up the plow and began to make his way back to the barn. He stopped short, however, when he noticed something moving in the night sky. It looked as if the stars themselves had shifted. He squinted hard and realized the stars were shifting and not just shifting but getting closer. He found himself thinking back to all the foalstales he'd heard as a colt of the sky falling. He knew it was impossible but the thought of the sky coming to crash down on him have him a bit of a panic. He hefted the plow off of himself and readied to run when he caught the shape of a pony among the stars. Again he squinted, what pony would look so much like the stars? What pony would be coming to visit him at this part of the farm, and this late? As the figure drew ever closer his eyes slowly began to widen. "Well, I'll be." Big Mac bowed his head as Princess Luna landed in front of him. Luna stood for a moment. She was unsure of this particular stallion's name and she did not want address him as "subject" and set the tone as if she were there on royal business. So she opted for a smile and an ever so simple, "Hello." Big Mac kept his head bowed low. His mind had been racing with why the Princess would come to see him of all ponies. He was so lost in his own thoughts he didn't even hear the hello. Luna frowned for a moment, hoping she wasn't intimidating such a large stallion. She knew being a princess carried certain downsides but being feared was never really something she wanted. At least, not anymore. She reapplied her smile and leaned down to catch his eye and spoke a little louder this time, "Hello?" That time her voice caught his ear and he looked quickly around to see her own head down parallel to his own. Her smile did little to calm his nerves but it was better than a frown. He found her deep blue eyes staring into his and remembered he was supposed to say something. "Uhh... Pleasure to meet you, Princess Luna." Luna's smile faded briefly. She hoped she could convince him to relax because she had many questions about his glowing garden. Though it was becoming apparent that even a stallion like this couldn't look past her position as a princess. Mac searched his mind for anything else to say to her. The silence was becoming awkward but her sudden appearance had left him uncharacteristically flustered. When he could think of nothing to say and Luna could not think of a way to let him relax, she admitted defeat to herself and took off without a word. Disappearing into the night sky once again. With a hefty sigh, Big Mac looked up and watched her as long as he could, until she was indiscernible from the rest of the stars. Glancing back at the still glowing plots, he shouldered the plow and began his trek back toward the barn. After unloading the harness and walking slowly back to the house Mac found himself staring up at the stars once again. He replayed the awkward moment with the princess in his mind and he was disappointed with himself. He was never stallion of many words but he usually did have the right thing to say when it needed to be said. Tonight he had missed that moment and he knew it. Staring up at the gleaming stars he smiled and said, "Good night, Princess." ----- Luna swore at herself as she drifted through the air aimlessly. "'Nice garden.' That's all I had to say. Why can't I talk to these ponies yet? I've worked so hard to adjust but ponies still only see me as the princess." She sighed heavily. She hated that she had been gone for so long. When she had lived in the palace before her banishment she had talked to few ponies but they were enough to keep her happy. After having been away for so long, all her friends that she'd had were now gone. So she attempted to make new friends, but the ones that didn't run in fear of Nightmare Moon, were usually too caught up on her being royalty to have a normal conversation with her. She sighed again and swayed from side to side as she flew. She would make another attempt at it again soon. Perhaps even with the same stallion. His garden had looked so familiar to her but she couldn't place why. Chapter 2Big Mac awoke the next day a little later than usual. Normally, he was the first one up but today he could hear the family downstairs. He rolled out of bed and headed downstairs, moving with surprising quickness for a stallion of his size. No one seemed to notice or even mention that he was late to breakfast. He sat at his usual place and ate silently as was the norm for him. Big Mac ate his breakfast a little slower than usual. He was lost in his thoughts. He wondered how the usiku trees were doing. He hoped even one made it to fruition so he could surprise the family. Thinking of the trees invariably led to thinking of his visit from Luna. He replayed that painfully awkward moment again and shook his head shamefully at himself. After they had all finished breakfast, Applejack and Big Mac headed out to tend the fields. AJ discussed everything that need done and Mac nodded along throwing out an "Eeyup" whenever was necessary. When finally Applejack paused she looked at Mac and noticed him not really listening. "Something bothering you, big brother?" "Eenope." "Come on now. I don't have to be the Element of Honesty to know that's a lie. What's eatin' you?" Big Mac sometimes resented her upfront attitude but her intentions were always placed among love and he could not dislike her for that. "You met Princess Luna, right?" "I sure have." "What's she like?" "Well, from what I remember, she was trying to make everyone not scared of her on Nightmare Night. She's pretty nice nowadays but some ponies don't know how to act around her. Why do you ask?" Mac fumbled with his words, not wanting to reveal he'd seen her at his secret plot of land. "Uhh.. I was just wondering. I had a strange dream last night and she was in it and.. I was just wondering." Applejack eyed him with suspicions before her eyes shot wide. "Now I know why you're askin'!" "What!? Why?" "You like her, don't you?" Applejack dissolved into giggles at his expense. Big Mac blushed and appreciated that it was hard to tell that from his red coat. "No! Well, I mean, yes, she's pretty but that's not why I asked. Ugh. Can we get to work?" Applejack stifled her laughter and nodded. "Why're you in such a rush? Got a hot date tonight?" Big Mac rolled his eyes and walked past his sister, who was losing herself in another fit of laughter, and headed to the barn for the start of his long day of hard work. ----- Luna watched as her sister began to lower the sun on the horizon just as she was raising the moon. Old feelings if resentment flared as she notices several ponies staring at the beautiful colors of the sunset. Her anger teetered out as she looked over the land and noticed a red speck standing in the middle of the farm she had visited the night before. He seemed to be stopped and watching the moon rise. She appreciated that, and him. Mac stared as the moon rose slowly. Ponies sometimes said they could see Luna raising it but he never had. He had a hard time distinguishing her from the other stars that came with the night. He was happy to see the moon tonight though because he knew he'd soon be able to check on his secret trees. He found himself reveling in having a secret and even a time to look forward to. Farm work could be a bit unrewarding at times. He smiled to himself. He would have a good time with his new hobby. He returned to the barn to make sure all was in order before sitting down to dinner with the family. Apple Bloom hadn't earned her cutie mark but she had earned a few new bruises and she regaled them with the tale. They chuckled and ate mostly in silence. Big Mac enjoyed his meal and relaxed a bit before he would go back to work. When everyone had gone to bed, Big Mac made his way outside and to the barn. He wouldn't need the plow but he wanted to make sure the trees were watered and had the best chance at growing big and strong. As he approached his secret garden he noticed a dark colored pony standing at the edge of it. He hoped it wasn't someone who had stumbled across the ground and now would spread the word. Princess Luna stood at the edge of the garden and eyed the glowing plots. She couldn't place where she had seen them before, but her memory told her it was something rare that led to a great feast. No, not a feast. It had been an intimate affair she had shared with only her family. Something special. Big Mac moved slowly hoping to not startle her and then he noticed something familiar. Her tail shined like all the stars in the sky. He swallowed hard. Now he very much hoped he didn't startle her. When he was as close as he dared to get and she hadn't heard him he set down the watering can and cleared his throat gently. Luna nearly jumped out of her skin, which, in turn, caused Big Mac to nearly jump out of his skin. A yelp from Luna as she turned around elicited a yelp from Mac as he backed up quickly. When Luna recognized him her panic subsided and she sighed heavily. "Didn't anyone ever tell you it's not polite to sneak up on ponies?" Big Mac bowed instinctively. "I'm sorry, Princess Luna. Please don't be mad at me." Princess Luna rolled her eyes at him. How could such a large and muscular stallion be such a pushover? She walked over to him and put a hoof on his shoulder. "Arise. You do not need to fear me. It's my fault I was startled since I am the one trespassing on your land." Big Mac looked up at her, still very aware that she was a princess, but he relaxed slightly as he stood up straight. "You're not trespassing, Princess. You can go wherever you like. I'm just surprised you would choose to come here." "Why is that? This is Sweet Apple Orchards, is it not? Your farms reputation reaches far and wide. Why wouldn't I want to come here?" Luna smiled at him. Happy that he had finally spoken and that her research of this farm from earlier today had paid off. "I guess, but, if you wanted to see the farm, why not come during the day?" "Because unlike most ponies I work only at night and therefore sleep during the day. Also, I am only interested in these particular trees. They spark a memory but I cannot recall it clearly. What can you tell me about these glowing plots of land?" Luna turned and pointed to the dim circles that dotted the garden. Big Mac grabbed the watering can and worked as he talked. "Well, Princess, I don't rightly know much about them. All I know is that they only grow with moonlight and that they're supposed to be delicious." "Hmm," Luna stared intently at one of the plots, "Where did you get the seeds? And what do you call them?" "From Zecora, Princess. They're called usiku trees. Supposedly very rare." Luna's eyes widened as she heard the name. "These are usiku trees!?" Her sudden outburst caused Big Mac to freeze and nod at her slowly. "These are the rarest fruit in all of Equestria! They do not always grow into delicious fruits though. They have to be greatly cared for or the fruit will be poisonous to anyone who eats it." "Well, that shouldn't be a problem, Princess. I know a thing or two about caring for apple trees; these can't be too much harder. I'll just show 'em a little more attention and they should be right as rain." Luna wanted to accept that. Clearly, he did know what he was talking about. She couldn't take that chance though. "I'll need to research this. Promise me that you will take the utmost care of these trees and make sure no one accidentally ventures here." "I promise, Princess. I chose this spot because it's pretty out of the way, so no one should find it back here." Luna nodded and turned to take off but stopped herself and turned back to him. "Please, what is your name?" "Macintosh, Princess." "Very well, Macintosh. I will return in a few days’ time when I have fully researched these plants." In a flash, she was gone. Big Mac watched her go then his mind replayed the tail end of their conversation. "Consarnit.. Why did I tell her Macintosh? I hate that name." He sighed as he picked up his watering can and finished watering the trees. As he reached the last plot he noticed something in the dirt. Brushing it gently with his hoof he realized it was a sprout. "What the... They shouldn't be sprouting that fast. Maybe I should do a little research too." Big Mac returned to the farm, returning the watering can to the barn and as he approached the house he gave the night sky one last look. "She sure is a lot prettier than I remember." Chapter 3Princess Luna flipped through several books, looking to gather all the information she could on usiku trees. Unfortunately, like the trees themselves, good information on them was also extremely rare. She cried out and threw her hooves up in frustration and exhaustion. It was nearly noon. She was well past her bed time. Princess Celestia heard the commotion as she passed the library and stopped to check on the source. "Hello? Is anyone in here?" Princess Luna moved through the stacks of books and into view of Celestia. "It's just me, sister," she sighed. "I'm looking for information but it's proving to be a fruitless endeavor." "Perhaps I can help. What are you looking for?" "Information on these." Luna set down an old book in front of Celestia and opened it to the appropriate page. On the page was a well drawn picture of a full grown usiku tree and below it was labeled as such. "Usiku trees? Those haven't been around for nearly 800 years. No one could get the fruit to grow properly. Why are you looking for information on them?" "Well, I'm looking for a specific piece of information. Wasn't there a side effect of the fruit that resulted in a poisonous death?" Celestia thought for a moment. "Yes, I do recall instances of that happening but it was a rare occurrence. Why are you so worried about this, sister? You should be resting before the night." "Because there is a stallion in Ponyville that is growing usiku trees." "Really? Who is that?" "Macintosh of the Apple family. I trust in his ability to raise a nonpoisonous fruit but I wanted to know more about them." "Oh, well, if Big Macintosh thinks he can grow them properly I have to agree. That stallion does know apples." "I am simply wary of what may be an ulterior motive." "From Big Macintosh?" Celestia chuckled softly. "You needn't worry, sister. Of all the ponies in Ponyville, I believe the Apple family to be some of the most kind hearted among them." Luna began to protest but she sighed in weary resignation. Celestia was probably right. She had always been a good judge of character, and she had actually been around to meet the ponies in her kingdom. She bid Celestia good day and retired to her room. She would visit the farm in the evening to check on Macintosh and his trees. ----- Big Mac cleared away a few branches from his secret garden. The weather ponies had given them a doozy of a storm the day before and some of the trees on the farm had been damaged. Though he was surprised to find debris this far out. He finished his work quietly and quickly. Staying up later than normal had made his normal day work a bit more difficult and Applejack was beginning to notice. As he closed the gate of the fence he had built behind him he looked up at the night sky. It had been nearly a week since Princess Luna told him to keep an eye on the trees. He had attempted to learn more about them but Twilight had not had any books pertaining to these kinds of trees. At this point, he was beginning to wonder if Luna had simply been pulling his leg and they weren't so rare. Still, he looked up at the night sky and began a ritual that had been making him feel better about the strange trees, already nearly as tall as him, in his garden. "Well, Princess Luna, nothing unusual to report tonight. The trees still don't have any fruit buds but that's not surprising with how young they are. They're starting to glow at the trunk now, which is pretty but I think I'll need to find a way to hide it so no one sees it from a distance and comes to investigate." "Very good, Macintosh. That was an excellent report. How did you know I was here?" Luna's voice rose from Big Mac's left. He stood stark still trying to calm his beating heart. She had scared the willies out of him and all his hair stood on end. "Uh.. Just intuition, I guess, Princess." She emerged from the bushes and approached him. "Well, you have keen senses, that is certain. Tell me, is it normal for new trees to be this large?" Big Mac scratched his head slowly. "Not that I've ever seen, Princess. Most trees take years to reach their full size. These seem to be growing much faster." "Fascinating." They stood in silence for a moment, both staring at the faintly glowing trees, back lit by the moon, neither realizing how romantic of a setting it was. "Princess Luna?" "Yes, Macintosh?" He cringed at the name. "Did you learn anything else about the trees or their fruit?" Luna shook her head. "No. They are very old trees that haven't been grown in centuries. My research was fruitless." Big Mac chuckled. "Fruitless. That's a good one, Princess." Luna looked at him quizzically and he stopped laughing. "Sorry." "I'm afraid I must be off for the evening, Macintosh. I have business to attend to in the castle." "Don't mind me, Princess. I'm only here to grow some trees." He smiled more to himself than at her but she smiled back. "Oh, and, Princess?" "Yes?" "If you want to come back every evening I usually have a report. I've been writing them down because these trees are so strange but sometimes it's ...." His voice trailed off. "What was that?" "Sometimes it's nice to have company." He repeated, sheepishly, as he realized he was asking a princess to come keep him company. "Very well. I would like to learn more about these trees so perhaps we could learn together." He smiled again. This time at her. "Good night, Macintosh." "Good night, Princess." As Princess Luna reached her peak in the sky she looked back down to see Mac's shadowy figure moving back toward the farmhouse. She turned her attention back toward the castle but her mind lingered on their conversation. "Oh! Fruitless!" She chuckled to herself as she flew off into the night. Chapter 4"What's eatin' you, Big Mac? You've been slower than a mule in molasses all week." Applejack walked the grounds with Big Mac, as they cleared away the last of the tree limbs from between the rows of apple trees. Big Mac trotted up to her with a trailer of sticks in tow behind him. "I've just been feeling under the weather is all. I'll be right as rain next week." "Yea. And I'll be elected mayor of Ponyville. What's got you so distracted? You darn near run over my hoof yesterday, you watered my tail the day before that, that's not like you." She eyed him closely. He brushed off her questions. "I'm just not feeling good and I'm not sleeping well. It's nothing, AJ. Stop worryin' so much." "Hmph. Whatever you say." Applejack walked away from him, a bit annoyed. Big Mac hated lying to her but he felt this would be a secret worth keeping so he could surprise her and the others. The truth was, he really wasn't sleeping well. He'd been having some very vivid dreams about a certain alicorn that had fallen into his life and he was developing certain feelings for her. He was confused about these feelings, though. After all, she was a princess and he just a common stallion. He had never really dreamed of meeting the princesses personally, let alone actually dreaming of them. He resigned himself to what would be his lot, this plot of land and a common mare. No princess would ever dream of taking him out of all the other stallions in her choices. He took his time heading back to the barn, their work for the day was done which meant plenty of downtime before dinner and his garden time. He had planned to write down the notes from last night and perhaps catch up on some much needed sleep but as he returned to the farmhouse he could see his plan was already spoiled. "Oh, there you are, Big Mac! I was just talking to Applejack about a new clothing line I want to run but I need a rather strapping male model." Big Mac smiled as Rarity rambled. He had always liked her. She may be a bit prissy for his tastes but he always found her amusing. "Anyway, long story short," Too late, Mac thought, "would you be so kind as to be my model for the evening?" "No problem at all, Miss Rarity. If you'll give me one minute to take care of something I'd be happy to help." Rarity nodded and turned her attention, and her knack for rambling, onto Applejack as Big Mac made his way inside and up to his room. He grabbed the notebook he'd been using and scribbled the observations from last night in and reminded himself that Princess Luna would be coming by so he had to be free of Rarity at a decent time. He was certain that wouldn't be a problem. ----- "So, Big Mac, do you have any special someponies in your life?" Rarity asked, nonchalantly, as she worked her magic. After what had been hours of mostly silence, Big Mac was caught off guard by the question. "Umm.. Not really, I suppose. There is one mare I sorta fancy but she's out of my league." "Nonsense! You're a catch for any mare. A strong worker, intelligent, generous and kind. Any mare would be lucky to have you." Big Mac blushed rather deeply, happy that Rarity had not paused to look at him as she spoke. "Thank you." "You're very welcome. So tell me about this mare. Is she an Earth pony, a unicorn, or a pegasus? What does she look like?" Rarity's natural curiosity and gossipy nature had kicked in. Big Mac thought for a moment. "She's a pegasus. She's got very dark colored fur and a purple mane." "Ah, black and purple are such a glorious color combination. Like, Princess Luna, her coat and mane are just exquisite. Tell me more about this mystery mare. What's she like?" Big Mac again had to think. "She's... Different. Not like most ponies in town. She's a bit old fashioned, I guess. She's funny but she doesn't always catch her own jokes. And she seems pretty interested in apples." "She sounds like quite a lady. What makes you think she's out of your league?" Rarity held up the garment she was sewing before adjusting it in the machine and getting back to work. "We just lead different lives. I work all day and she works all night. And she could have her choice of any stallion in Equestria. With that many more successful and rich stallions to choose from, I don't think she'd ever pick me." Rarity paused in her work and turned to him. "You mustn't think like that. You have to realize that sometimes being rich and successful isn't what makes ponies happy. Sometimes it's hard work, determination, and, dare I say, a little dirt in your mane that makes ponies the happiest they've ever been. You said this mare of yours likes apples, is there some kind of apple that grows at night?" She turned back to her work. "Umm.. Yes. But they are very rare." "Well, then perhaps your best chance of 'wooing' this mare is to find a way to grow those trees. Tell her that one tree in particular is hers and then you can help her to grow that tree and from that blossoming tree so too shall your love blossom." Rarity stopped working once again and sighed delightfully to herself. "Or perhaps I'm just reading too many romance novels and wishing that Blue Blood hadn't been such a.." She exhaled sharply, "Such an uncouth gentlecolt." Big Mac chuckled softly, both at her advice and her disdain for Blue Blood. "Don't you worry a hair on your head about him, Miss Rarity. Colts like him always getting what's coming to them in the end." "Yes, I just wish that end would come sooner rather than later. So when will you next see this mare of yours?" "Well, I'm supposed to meet her tonight," he paused as he looked at the clock on the wall. "Oh no." "'Oh no?' Don't tell me I've made you miss a date?" "Not really a date, but.. I'm a bit on the late side." Rarity gathered up the clothes she had draped over him and tossed them onto a mannequin. "That just won't do. I won't have you missing a chance at love by being here with me. Go to her. I'll finish this up and come by the farm to have you try it on." Big Mac stepped down off of the pedestal he'd been standing on. "Thank you, Miss Rarity." He made his way out of her home and took off down the street toward Sweet Apple Acres. Rarity watched him disappear into the night from her window and sighed. "Oh, to be young and in love." She glanced at the picture of herself and Fluttershy that she kept on her desk and smiled warmly. ----- Princess Luna sat at the gate to the garden and looked around. She had arrived at the same time she usually did but Macintosh was nowhere in sight. She had been waiting for nearly 15 minutes before she entered the gate slowly. She walked the small garden and noticed a few of the trees seemed to be wilting. With the help of her magic she summoned a small rain cloud and moved it from plot to plot, giving each an ample drink. She inspected each tree individually and agreed that the trunks would need to be covered if they were expected to remain secret. She made a mental note to look up a spell that might help with that. After her inspection, she leaned against the gate and waited a few minutes more before her patience ran out. She produced a piece of paper and quill and left Macintosh a note before she took off into the night. Big Mac came running up only moments after Luna had taken off. He spotted her for a moment in the sky before she disappeared. He swore to himself about being late and moved to enter the garden when he spotted the note. Dear Macintosh, Nothing new to report this evening. I watered the trees because they looked slightly wilted. I believe they may be exposed to too much direct sunlight during the day so I will dispatch a cloud unit to the appropriate location in the sky to block some sunlight for them. I do not begrudge you for not being here tonight. I know you work very hard during the day and there will be times you must get sleep, as the "day apples" are more important than these few "night apples." On those nights, I will be happy to do any work the trees may require, though you may have to teach me proper techniques. Also, I will research a way to hide the glow from the trunks. The last thing our garden needs is a curious and hungry pony happening across it. Sleep well and I will see you soon, Luna Big Mac read that last paragraph twice. "Our garden." He smiled. Maybe Rarity's ridiculous plan wasn't so ridiculous after all. Perhaps with 'their garden' she would find him more than just a common stallion. His feelings grew as he walked back to the farmhouse. He was beginning to enjoy staying up so late. Chapter 5Over the next few nights, Big Mac taught Luna the basics of caring for apple trees. Realistically, there isn't much to know, and Big Mac knew that, but, in an attempt to talk to her and keep her around a bit longer, he would often go in depth on things that were rather easily understood. Princess Luna never questioned him. She stood as an eager student and seemed excited to be a part of the garden. In fact, Luna was excited. Excited she had finally connected with another pony. Granted, this particular connection was more of a research project but she was having fun all the same. She had long missed this sort of connection with her subjects. She finally had someone to talk to. As they would work in tandem, Big Mac would try to be purposefully clumsy at times. Bumping into her as he worked was one he often did. He blamed it on the fact that he normally worked alone but really he just wanted to be a bit closer to her. He didn't feel particularly proud of his actions but he could not possibly tell her how he felt. At least, not yet. Luna found his bumbling rather odd. When amongst the trees, he moved with care and grace that she didn't think possible from a stallion of his size, but, when around her, he would often trip over his own hooves, it seemed. She chalked it up to him not being completely comfortable around her yet, but she was happy he was able to see past her being a princess to teach her these new things. They had finished their work for the evening and were both leaning on the fence and staring at the trees. "They sure are growing fast," Big Mac commented. Luna nodded in response. "I should have the shroud spell ready by tomorrow. It will keep their glow hidden at great distances." "Well, I'd best be gettin' to bed. If AJ has to wake me up in the morning again I think she's gonna use a bucket of cold water." Luna giggled. "Then I believe sleep now would be the right choice. Good night, Macintosh." "Good night, princess." Princess Luna flew off into the night and Big Mac lingered on the fence for a moment. He enjoyed his moment alone until he heard movement behind him. He turned quickly and stared a familiar white unicorn in the face. "Miss Rarity?" She nodded. "I don't mean to startle you but I couldn't sleep so I decided to deliver the outfit I made for you to try on. After I left it on your front porch, I noticed a glowing coming from this direction and decided to have a little adventure. Was that the special somepony you told me about, Big Mac?" He panicked for a moment, not sure if she'd been able to recognize Princess Luna from a distance. He decided with as dark as it was and the fact that Luna hadn't turned around that Rarity couldn't have seen her horn to make the connection. "Yep. We come out here to visit some nights. Just because it's so quiet." "It seems very romantic. Are these the trees that grow night apples?" She asked, motioning to the small garden behind him. "Oh, uh, yes. But don't tell anyone about them. I'm gonna surprise the family with them when they're fully grown." "Not to worry, dear. I won't tell a soul. So how are things with your mare friend?" Rarity gave him a wink as she used the term. Big Mac blushed slightly as he began to walk back toward the farmhouse. "Well, she's not my mare friend. She doesn't even know how I feel. And I'm not even sure she feels the same way." Rarity nodded and fell in step with him as they headed back. "Yes, love can be difficult to deal with. Are you at least bonding over this garden of yours?" Big Mac nodded. "We're having a lot of fun. These trees are a bit strange so it's been a learning experience for both of us." "Well, that's good. But you should attempt to explain your feelings to her before the trees are come and gone." Big Mac sighed heavily. "I just don't know, Miss Rarity. Right now I'm just enjoying my time with her." Rarity stopped in front of the farmhouse with him and lowered her voice to make sure only he heard her. "And that's wonderful, but enjoying your time with an immortal is like saying the best part of Christmas is sleeping the day away." Big Mac went pale. She had seen enough to recognize Luna. He stammered and tried to explain but Rarity cut him off. "It's alright, dear. The heart wants what the heart wants. I won't tell a soul. But you should tell her so you two can enjoy the time that you have before your time is up." Big Mac nodded slowly. His stomach was still doing cartwheels at the knowledge that his secret was no longer secret. "But I'm just a farmer. What would she want with a stallion like me?" Rarity stroked his face with her hoof and angled his face toward her own, so she could look him in the eyes. "Because what I told you the other evening is true. You are a catch. For any mare." She leaned up and kissed his cheek. "Don't worry. Your secret is safe with me. Good night, Big Mac." Big Mac watched her go in silence while his mind and stomach still practiced their acrobatics routine. He must've stood there for 10 minutes before a drop of rain on his head brought him back to reality. He glanced up and saw a rainbow colored pony give him a wave and motion him inside before she went back to work arranging the clouds for that evening's storm. He wandered slowly inside and up to his room where he fell into bed. Sleep came quickly due to his level if exhaustion from working almost constantly now, but this night would be filled with restless dreams. Chapter 6Princess Luna hummed happily to herself as she wrote notes in a book she'd been keeping on the usiku trees. She wanted to make sure these trees could be grown for all to enjoy in the future. She sighed happily as she closed the book and leaned back in her chair. For the second time in as many weeks, Celestia heard the noise as she passed by the library and entered to investigate. She found Luna still humming and daydreaming with her eyes closed. "Sister, shouldn't you be just dreaming instead of day dreaming?" Celestia chuckled softly as her sister jumped. Regaining her composure, Luna smiled. "I suppose but when I dream it is day time. So all my dreams are day dreams." They shared a giggle. "What are you doing back in the library? Still researching the usiku trees?" "Quite the contrary. I am chronicling them. To ensure future generations might always know how to grow them." "That's very good! So I assume you and Big Macintosh are having success in growing the trees?" Luna nodded happily. "Indeed, we are. Macintosh is a wonder to behold as he moves among the trees. He is a strong and intimidating stallion but his grace and poise are unseen anywhere else in Equestria. His knowledge of the trees and how he expects them to grow are unmatched, as well. He truly is a master of his craft." Celestia nodded. "The Apple family never ceases to impress. Be mindful of your feelings though, sister." Luna looked at her in confusion. "What about my feelings?" "Do not become too attached to Big Macintosh. He may be a fine stallion but he will die long before you or I. Trust in me when I say that the heartache you receive is crippling." Celestia voice trailed of at the end of that statement as she recalled some memories best left forgotten. "I thank you for the advice, sister, but I think you misunderstand my intentions." Celestia shook her head. "I understand them perfectly. Your study of the usiku trees comes first and foremost in your mind but that is not the only reason you go there." "You're right. I go because Macintosh is the only pony who has not run in fear or been distracted by my position of power. He offers good conversations and support for my learning endeavors. He is a friend. Nothing more." The irritation in her voice was clear. "And yet as you describe him you sound like a school filly with a crush. I am not saying you must act upon your feelings or that you shouldn't be feeling them. I am only advising you to stay mindful of our long life and the rather short lives our subjects lead in comparison." Celestia tried to remain calm and make it clear to Luna that she only wanted to help. Luna picked up the book she had been writing her notes in and made for the door of the library. "And I am advising you that I do not have feelings for Macintosh or any other stallion." Luna stomped out of the library. Celestia watched her go and shook her head. She spoke to herself. "Be careful, dear sister. Deny your feelings too long and the one you hold them for will be gone before you've had time to enjoy their company." Luna stomped into her room and tried to quell her anger. After 1,000 years away, she had learned that her anger would get her nowhere. She laid on her large bed and opened her book, rereading all of the notes she had taken. They were meticulous. Focused solely on the trees. She never once mentioned Macintosh and as she read the notes she did not think of him. She was as much a scientist as Twilight Sparkle. However, as she set the book aside and let her mind wander, she replayed her argument with Celestia, and thought about what she had said. "How did I describe him that would make it seem like I have feelings for him?" She closed her eyes and furrowed her brows. Sometimes she hated when Celestia pointed out things like this. She enjoyed her scientific nature, and didn't let personal relationships get in her way. Her mind wandered to Macintosh and, for the first time, she pictured him not as a teacher but as a stallion. She thought of his gentle nature amongst the trees, his relaxed demeanor as he dealt with working night and day, of his impressive strength to do everything he did. As she thought of all of this, something in her mind clicked. She did have feelings for him. She pulled a pillow over her face and screamed into it. Why did Celestia have to point this out? Things had been simple and uncomplicated. Now Luna was astutely aware of how she felt which would certainly make things awkward. And how could she even deal with this? Macintosh had been too afraid to even say hello to her on their first meeting. He would probably wet himself if he knew how she felt. Luna sighed to herself. She would simply ignore the feelings. What other choice did she have? She did not want to scare off the one pony who had been able to accept her as something beyond a princess. Content with her plan, and also upset with it, she curled up on her bed with her pillow held close to her. She daydreamed of Macintosh for several minutes before drifting off into a real dream. ----- Big Mac had been on auto pilot all day. He drifted from place to place on the farm, completing the work desired of him, but his mind was miles away. He thought of what he would say to Luna if he ever confessed his feelings. He thought of the hundreds of ways that conversation could go. In his mind, most ended with him never seeing her again. This thought depressed him. Beyond his deeper feelings for her he did enjoy their time together. She had been eager to learn about the apples and it felt nice to have someone new to talk to. He found that he loved her, not just as a mare, but as a companion, as well. An apple to the head shook him from his daze. "Are you gonna daydream all day?" Applejack's voice rose from behind him and he turned to her. "I reckon so." He answered sarcastically. "Are you done with the north field?" She nodded proudly. "And in record time. I'm headed to the house for a drink. I'll be back out to help you when I'm done." "Don't even worry about it, sis. Put your hooves up and relax. I've been out of sorts all week. No reason for you to do extra work on account of me." Applejack smiled. "Alright, but you have this field done by supper or Granny's gonna be mad." She tipped her hat to him and left him to his work. Big Mac surveyed what he had left of the field. He was nearly done. Barely a quarter to go. He let his mind wander again as he set back to work. What if I tell her once the fruits ripen? Naw. Then she'll have no reason to come back anyway. Or if I gave her one as a gift and told her how I feel as she eats it. But then she'll probably spit it all over my face in shock.. He sighed and continued to test scenarios in his mind as he finished up the last of the field. After finishing the field, he gave it a once over to be sure of the quality of his work before turning back toward the farmhouse. In the distance, he spotted a purple unicorn trotting toward him and waving. "Hi Big Mac!" He smiled warmly. "Howdy, Twilight! What brings you out this way?" "Well, AJ said I could find you out here. You're not busy, are you?" "Not at all. Just finished up." He sat under a tree and patted the ground next to him. "Pull up a tree and have a seat." She giggled and sat down next to him. "So what can I do you for, Twilight?" "Well, actually, I came to tell you something important. About those trees you were asking about before." Big Mac sat up a little bit and made sure Applejack and Apple Bloom were not around to hear. Twilight gave him a quizzical look. "I'm trying to surprise them with the trees," he explained. "Oh. Well, about the trees. You may want to be careful with the fruit they bear." "Why's that? And I thought you didn't have any books on them." "Neither did I. Apparently, Spike filed it in the Rare & Magical section because the trees haven't been around in so long. But about the fruit, you have to be careful with who you give it to." He raised an eyebrow but remained silent, allowing her to continue. "Apparently, the fruit can be poisonous." "You make it sound like it isn't always that way." She shook her head. "It's not. It has something to do with emotions and feelings of the ponies involved. The negatives weren't covered very extensively but it did note that the more positive you feel about a particular pony, the better the fruit tastes. So, I imagine your family will love it, because you love them. But someone you don't like may find it bitter and if you don't like them enough or hate them, they may get very ill or even die." Big Mac was a bit shocked to say the least but he smiled at her. "Then it's a good thing I like every pony in town." Twilight laughed. "That's what I thought you'd say. Just be careful with the fruits. They don't respond to what you say but to what you feel deep down. Your truest emotions are literally grown into these apples." An idea clicked into Big Mac's head and he smiled broadly. "By any chance, did your book say how long it took the fruits to grow?" "Umm.. I think about three to four weeks. But they can only be grown once a year. They release spores into the air that prevent any more from being planted within 100 miles. These spores die off in winter." Big Mac nodded and stood up. "Well, thank you kindly, Twilight. That's a big help." Twilight stood with him and smiled. "You're very welcome." ----- Luna awoke late in the afternoon. Her mood soured when she realized the perfect world she had been living in in her dream was simply that. She sat up groggily and stared at the note book not far from her on the bed. "Just research. Nothing more." She took a deep breath and exhaled sharply. "No matter how much I wish for more." She placed the book gently on the nightstand beside her bed and made a mental note to credit Macintosh somewhere in the book. It was the least she could do. Leaving for the evening to raise the moon and study the trees she felt apprehensive for the first time. As she flew, she steeled her resolve and assured herself that regardless of her feelings she would still have a good time. Chapter 8Luna worked mostly alone on the trees for the next few nights. Macintosh had been right in saying there wasn't much left to do but watch the apples grow. Despite this truth, Luna felt comfortable among the trees. Something about them was warm and inviting to her. She exited the fencing and leaned on it, staring at the trees, sighing softly. "Any day now," she said to no one in particular. "Princess Luna?" The voice came from behind her and she turned slowly, stepping out of the fog she greeted Twilight Sparkle. "Be careful in the fog, Twilight Sparkle." She stepped back inside the fog disappearing almost immediately as she opened the gate and reentered the garden. Twilight gingerly followed her, making sure not to bump into anything. As she cleared the fog she looked up at the usiku trees standing before her and her eyes grew wide. "Princess, they're beautiful." Luna nodded. "Indeed they are. Now tell me, Twilight Sparkle, why did you wish to see the trees?" Twilight stared a moment longer before answering the question posed to her. "Big Macintosh had made the trees sound so amazing, I wanted to see them before they were gone. I asked him to keep a notebook of proper care techniques and their growth pattern, as well." "Before they are gone? What do you know of these trees, Twilight?" Twilight took a moment to explain to Luna everything detailed in the book she had found in the library. She told her about the usiku trees short lifespan and accelerated growth time. Explained why the trees would be unable to be planted again until after the coming winter and how the person who planted the fruits was in charge of how they tasted. "What do you mean? Macintosh can simply decide how the fruit tastes?" "Not exactly. The fruits are grown not only from moonlight and water. They are grown with the love inside the very pony who plants them. As a result of that, other ponies that that pony loves will taste an amazing fruit. However, people that pony dislikes will taste something bitter. We're fortunate that Big Macintosh is such a stallion of the ponies. I don't think there's one pony he's ever met that he doesn't like." Luna smiled and nodded at her. "Yes, he is something of a gentle giant, isn't he?" After a moment it finally clicked in Luna's head. Macintosh's truest feelings were grown into the fruits. That's how she would gauge how he felt about her. It was perfect! "Alright, Princess, I need to hit the hay. I don't know how you night ponies stay up this late. Thank you for allowing me to see the trees." "The pleasure was all mine, Twilight Sparkle. Thank you for the information." They parted ways and Luna flew to the hospital to visit Macintosh. He was out of danger but he still hasn't woken up yet. Luna had made the internal promise to spend as much time with him as she could. Just in case he tried to slip away from them all without knowing how she felt. The nurses nodded her in and she sat silently by his bedside, holding his hoof in both of hers, and worried. She didn't know what else to do. Magic was unable to help him now. Often times, it felt like magic's uses were unlimited, but it did have it's limits. It was easy for a magical spell to mend a twisted ankle or a small cut but that was where it stopped. Superficial wounds were all it helped. Something like a concussion combined with blood loss was beyond the scope of any magically inclined pony's ability. So Luna simply say and did what she could to make him comfortable and held his hoof. For a moment, it the beginning she thought someone might start a rumor or might find it uncouth but she decided quickly she didn't care what anyone else thought. She was genuinely worried for the stallion in front of her and wanted nothing more than for him to improve, so that they might share the fruits of their endeavors together. "Fruits of our endeavors. How literal that statement is." Luna giggled softly to herself. "What's funny, sister?" Celestia entered the room quietly, speaking softly. Luna turned to her and quickly released Macintosh's hoof. "Nothing. My mind was wandering. What are you doing here?" "No need to release him, sister. I couldn't sleep. I thought I'd check on Big Macintosh but I can see he is in very capable hooves." Luna wrapped her hoof around Macintosh's again. "I simply wish we could do more for him," she said, sadly. "Magic can do many things, sister. But sometimes you have to rely on the strength of the affected pony to pull them back to life." She paused to let her words sink in. "Now tell me, have you ever met a stronger pony in all of your long life?" Luna smiled meekly as a tear rolled down her cheek and she shook her head at Celestia. "No, sister. No, I have not." Celestia embraced her sister tightly, allowing her to cry more freely. Luna's hoof remained tight to Macintosh's but with her free hoof she held her sister close. As they separated, Celestia spoke again. "Have you told him how you feel yet?" Luna shook her head. "Why not?" "Because I want to tell him. I want him to be here to respond to me. I am afraid of his reaction but I feel that if I tell him in his current state it would be like saying farewell. I do not want to say farewell to him." Celestia wiped away a fresh tear on Luna's face. "I cannot argue with that. Be strong, sister. Big Macintosh will return to us all. I have faith in his strength and his will to survive. He will not go from a bump on the head." Luna smiled and again embraced her sister tightly. "Thank you." Luna broke the embrace and took a deep, calming breath. "I will be strong. For him." "I'll leave you be. Good night, Luna." "Good night, sister." Luna was glad to be alone with Macintosh again. Not that she didn't value Celestia's wisdom and kind words but she simply wanted to sit and wait on Macintosh to awaken. She laid her head down on his bed and closed her eyes, thinking of all the things she had to tell him. Truly, she was scared, but she knew where his answer laid if he didn't awaken soon. Luna awoke with a start hours later. A nurse had gently shaken her from her slumber. The nurse politely informed her that it was the time she had asked them to retrieve her. It was time for her to set the moon. She was sure Celestia would do it for her, had she asked, but Luna felt it best to stay in routines and this was an important one. She left Macintosh's room slowly. She didn't want to leave him alone but the nurses assured her that someone from the Apple family would be in soon. She relented and left the hospital, soaring up into the already brightening sky. She relished the cool dawn air, and let it clear her mind as she settled the moon, before returning to the castle. Much as she wished to return to Macintosh, she knew he would be in good hooves throughout the day. After an hour of tossing and turning, she drifted into an uneasy and troubled sleep, filled with dreams that she would be hard pressed to forget come the next evening. Chapter 7As Luna arrived at the garden she was well aware she was later than usual. She was anxious. She didn't want her feelings to make things awkward and thought maybe Macintosh would be gone by the time she got there. He wasn't. Big Mac meandered around the garden. Inspecting each of the trees and noting things of interest. Several had small apples already growing on them and he was excited for that. It took him a moment to notice Princess Luna standing by the fence and watching him work. He gave her a wave and a smile and he finished the last of his inspection. Luna melted at the smile and felt herself smile dumbly back before she shook her head. Come on, Luna. He hasn't even said hello yet. Don't melt that easy. She remained leaning on the fence until Macintosh approached her. "The trees are looking good. Most even have a few tiny apples growing on them. I'd say by the end of the week they should be good and ripe." Big Mac smiled excitedly. "Excellent! I apologize for being late. I was finishing my final preparations for this shroud spell." And now you're lying to him to cover yourself. That's a healthy foundation for any relationship. "That's alright. Not much left to do anymore but watch the apples grow, anyway. Is the spell a hard one?" "A bit," No, it's not, "It will take a bit of focus to cast." "Well, you go ahead and do what you have to." He moved outside the gate and a bit farther away, "I'll just wait over here til you're done." Luna nodded at him. She secretly wished he had tripped into her like he did on other nights. As he exited the gate, she entered and stood in the center of the garden. "Try to be mindful of where the fence is, this will be barely enough to overlap it." She closed her eyes and charged her horn, channeling the spell. Big Mac watched as what looked like a dense fog appeared all around the fence he had built. The glow from the trees was gone and it looked as natural as anything. As Luna closed the fog around the garden, she opened her eyes and watched Macintosh fade. She finished the spell and slowly made her way to the fencing. Unfortunately, she had made the fog a bit thicker than intended and rolled her ankle in a small hole in the ground. "Ow!" She cried out as she limped over to the fence and leaned against it. The cry of pain made Big Mac's heart skip a beat. He couldn't see her and she was now in pain. He rushed toward the fog in a full sprint, intent on saving her. However, he ignored her advice on remembering where the fence was and ran headlong into it and her. Big Mac crashed through the fence and fell on top of Luna as they tumbled to the ground. Their head banged off of each other as they landed, causing a cut in Big Mac's forehead. As they lay on the ground for a moment in pain, Luna was the first to realize what had happened, and that the stallion she pined for was now laying on top of her. Not exactly for the reason she had ever hoped but right now she wasn't picky. As Big Mac's head cleared he realized he was on top of Luna and he scrambled to get off of her but as he set his hooves on he ground to stand up, his right foreleg gave out and he merely rolled off to Luna's left. Luna was immediately sad at his absence but there was a more pressing matter to attend to. She righted herself, staying gingerly placing weight on her foot and bent down next to him. "Macintosh, are you alright?" "I'm fine, Princess.". Big Mac made a move to stand up and collapsed again. "I do not believe being unable to stand is fine. Which leg is hurt?" Luna's voice was full of concern. Not simply because she liked him, but because she had never seem him look weak. Big Mac held out the injured leg and Luna bowed her head and charged a spell. As she went to cast it, there was a fizzling sound. She tried a second time with similar results. "Hmm. It seems the blow to my head has shorted out my magic. Do you have first aid in your home?" Big Mac sat up on the ground, his mind raced with what the family would say when he brought an injured princess into their home. "I do but we can't go there." "Why can we not? You have medical supplies and that is the closest place." Luna thought him odd, even in her raised state of concern. Big Mac thought up the quickest reason he could, which was also the worst. "Well, I can't walk, so I'll just sit her til it feels better." Luna rolled her eyes and ducked her head under his right foreleg. "We will not wait in the darkness. Now walk with me," she said in a slightly more commanding voice. Big Mac feared the wrath of his family but what other options did they have? They limped along together, slowly making their way to the farmhouse. About halfway to their destination each realized this was the closest they had ever been. They both shot the other a worried glance and were thankful for the darkness to hide the blush they shared. As they entered the farmhouse Luna sat Big Mac at the nearby table. "Where is your aid kit?" Her voice was low. "Up the stairs behind you. Third door on the right. Under the sink." Big Mac spoke as softly as he could through pants, the walk had been exhausting for the both of them. Princess Luna moved noiselessly through the house. As she crested the stairs and continued down the hallway, she counted the doors. Two on the left, both closed. The first on the right was closed, as well. The second on the right was open and she stepped inside for a moment. She spotted a small notebook on a table and flipped it open, silently. Reading through the notes she recognized it as everything he had recorded about the usiku trees. Macintosh was keeping similar notes to her own and they included a bit more detail than what hers did. She closed the book and replaced it on the table before moving out of the room and to the next door on her right. She froze as the door opened as she approached it. Apple Bloom walked groggily into the hallway and bumped into Luna's legs. She looked up and smiled. "I always wanted another big sister," she said, sleepily. Before Luna could think to respond Apple Bloom walked around her and back to what must have been her room. She felt a weight lift off of her and let out the breath she had been holding. She moved swiftly into the bathroom and retrieved the medical kit before making her way downstairs again. Big Mac sat at the table, leaning over and staring at the ground. As Luna sat down next to him she noticed a small dark pool below Macintosh's body. She leaned in and looked at it as another drop fell into the puddle. She followed the drop and realized that Macintosh was bleeding and had apparently passed out. She swore to herself and gently used her hoof to lift his chin. Leaning in closely to inspect him for cuts she wished that it wasn't dark and that he didn't have a red coat. She felt a droplet of blood reach her hoof and she redoubled her efforts, leaning in mere inches away from Big Mac's face to find the cut. As she found it, she flipped open the medical kit with her magic and readied a small rag with some ointment. She held the rag up and hesitated, speaking to him softly, "This may sting a bit." She pressed the rag to his forehead and his eyes shot open and be made a rather loud moaning sound. Luna shushed him and told him he was alright. "It'll stop in a moment. Just bear with me." They stayed like that for a minute. Luna leaned in close to Big Mac's forehead as she removed the rag and blew on the cut gently. Big Mac shut his eyes and fell silent again. She noticed his weight on her had increased considerably. She swore again and tried another spell. Still it fizzled. Luna tipped Big Mac's head up to make sure the bleeding had stopped before she leaned him on the table once again. She made her way back upstairs and entered the first room on the right. The placard on the door labeled it as Applejack's. Luna was unsure how to go through the motions of waking up someone in their own home so she shook Applejack gently and called her name in the same tone Celestia sometimes used to wake Luna up. It took a minute but Applejack sat up quickly and looked at Luna. "Princess Luna? What're you doing here? Am I dreaming?" "I assure you this is not a dream, Applejack. I need your assistance. There was an accident and Macintosh is hurt. We need to get him to the hospital." Luna spoke softly but sternly. She wanted Applejack to believe her and not ask many questions. Much to Luna's pleasure, Applejack only asked where Big Mac was before she was on the move with the princess. Together they loaded him into a cart to transport him to the hospital. Applejack had a moment of pause when Luna strapped in to pull beside her but Princess Luna assured her that just because she was a princess, didn't mean she couldn't do work. Together they arrived at the hospital where the staff did most of the work carrying Big Mac inside and to his room. As they waited in the waiting room together Applejack asked the obvious question, "Princess, how did you know Big Mac was hurt?" Princess Luna took the time to explain everything about the usiku trees and how she and Macintosh had become friends and bonded over them. She apologized for keeping the secret but Macintosh had told her it would be a great surprise for the Apple family. Applejack listened and nodded along, glad to know the real reason Big Mac had been acting strange. "Well, we certainly owe you for helping Big Mac out, Princess. I don't know how we could ever thank you." "As soon as we know Macintosh is okay, that will be all the thanks I need." Luna smiled at Applejack, who returned it in kind. But as the doctor entered the waiting room and looked at both of them, their smiles faded. Big Mac had a serious concussion and was lucky that he hadn't slipped into a coma when he passed out. He told them that Big Mac would be alright but he would probably be asleep for a day or two as a result of the medications they had him on. They nodded their understanding and asked if they could see him. The doctor advised only family, but he figured the nurses would make an exception for a princess. Together they went to Big Mac's room and stood over him. Applejack held back her tears as she held her big brother's hoof. From the opposite side of the bed, Luna squeezed his other hoof gently. "I'll make sure the trees are cared for, Macintosh. By the time you're feeling better we'll have their apples to enjoy together." Luna looked outside and noticed the sun was already coming up. She excused herself to Applejack, as she did have duties to attend to, but as she flew outside she noticed the moon was not in the sky. She flew to the castle and waited for her sister to return from setting the sun on it's path for the day and asked her why she had done that. "Because you had more pressing matters to attend to, dear sister. Saving the life of a beloved friend is far more important than having the moon in the sky. So I set it for you so you wouldn't have to worry." Luna didn't usually get emotional but she hugged Celestia in that moment. Thanking her for all she had done for her in their long lives. As she broke her embraced, she asked Celestia, "How did you know about Macintosh?" "I've been around a long time, Luna. I see lots of things that no one thinks I do." Luna smiled at her ever puzzling sister and let the question go. It wasn't important anyway. "You were right, by the way, sister." "About what?" "I do have feelings for him." Luna spoke sheepishly. "Well, now that you know it, maybe you should tell him." Celestia gave her a coy smile. "I do not think it would go so well." The negativity did not suit Luna. Celestia repeated what she had said to herself from only the day before, "Be careful, dear sister. Deny your feelings too long and the one you hold them for will be gone before you've had time to enjoy their company. I think that's especially true for you right now. We're all lucky Big Macintosh is still with us. Don't let how he might react sway you. Because you never know, he might just share your feelings." She winked this time. Luna nodded and accepted her sister's logic. She retired to her bedroom to get some rest and as she lay on her bed, her mind stayed with Macintosh. "He might just share your feelings." Luna's mind replayed the wink. That curious Celestia wink. Is it possible? Chapter 9The next two days passed without incident. Luna still took meticulous care of the usiku trees and sat at Big Mac's side for every moment she could. When she awoke on the third night she did so with a measure of excitement. She had spoken to Applejack about the night apples and was told that they would be ripe for the picking tonight. She flew to the garden, faster than she had ever flown before, after she had raised the moon for the night. Landing with a rather audible thud, she rushed through the fog, mindful of the fence. As she entered through the gate, she spotted the glowing trunks and looked for the fruits that had begun to glow in a similar fashion the day before. But as she neared the trees her heart sank. The apples were gone. All of them. She ran from tree to tree, her heart breaking a little more with each one she passed. She finally flopped to the ground, leaning back against a fence post she held her tears at bay. She wondered if they'd had a perfect moment and only lasted so long after they reached that peak. She stared blankly at the trees unsure of what to do. "Princess Luna?" The voice belonged to Twilight Sparkle. Luna rose slowly, wiping her eyes. "I'm here, Twilight Sparkle." Twilight burst through the fog and gate panting heavily. "There you are!" Luna nodded slowly. "Yes, here I am. But Twilight, the apples," she turned and motioned to the trees behind her, "they're all gone." "No, they're not, Princess. Applejack harvested them all at sunset and brought them over to the hospital." Luna's heart jumped into her throat. "The hospital? Does that mean...?" Twilight barely had a moment to nod before Luna teleported the both of them right in front of the hospital and Luna rushed inside. She stopped short just outside Macintosh's room. Reminding herself that he was still unaware of her feelings. She entered slowly and was greeted with smiles from the entire Apple family. Even the one laying in the bed. Luna nearly broke down and rushed to him when she saw him sitting up, but she maintained her composure and smiled sweetly at all of them. Celestia was also present, as were the rest of the Elements of Harmony. The hospital room was much too small for all of them but no one complained. Luna approached the bed. "Glad to see you're finally back with us, Macintosh. And I see our apples are looking very delicious," she said, indicating the small bushel of glowing apples next to Applejack. "Have you all tried one yet?" Applejack shook her head. "Big Mac wouldn't let us, Princess. Said he wanted you to be here." "Well, it just don't seem right to eat without you when you helped to raise them just as much as I did." Big Mac spoke softly. He was still a bit drowsy. "Then let us all enjoy them now." Luna tossed one to Celestia while Applejack and Apple Bloom handed out the rest. When everyone had one, they all looked at each other, wondering who would be the first to try it. Being ever the brave and adventurous pony she was, Rainbow Dash took the first bite. As she chewed slowly her eyes went wide and she spoke around the apple. "This is the best thing I have ever tasted!" With such a glowing review, everyone else took a bite. The yummy sounds that filled the room made Big Mac chuckle. "What's funny, Big Mac?" Applejack asked. "The apples taste better based on how much I like you. In a room full of ponies I love, I expected this kind of reaction." He chuckled again and everyone else joined him. Each of the Elements of Harmony gave him their best wishes before they left and the Apple Family left soon as well, they did, after all, have to rise early in the morning. Only Celestia and Luna lingered. "Well, of all the ponies I ever expected to see in this room, I certainly didn't expect the rulers of Equestria." Celestia chuckled. "Yes, well, you have touched a great many lives, Big Macintosh. If the hospital had the room I expect there would be many more ponies here." "We don't have nearly enough apples for all of them, Princess." They shared another laugh before Celestia wished him a speedy recovery and retired for the evening. She gave Luna a look as she left. Finally alone, Big Mac smiled at the Luna, but his smile faded when he realized she hadn't eaten her apple yet. "Why haven't you tried your apple, Princess? Don't you want to know how it tastes?" Luna inspected the apple before setting it down gently on the table beside the bed as she sat down next to Macintosh. "I would very much like to know how it tastes. But I am afraid of how it will taste as well." "Why's that, Princess? You don't think I don't like you, do you?" His voice sounded worried. Like he'd never really encountered someone he didn't like. "Of course not, Macintosh. You are truly the kindest stallion I've ever met. I am simply afraid that.." She paused, gathering her courage a bit, "I am afraid it will not taste as good as the other ponies described." Big Mac felt his heart sink a little that she would think he didn't like her as much as the other, but her fear of that was curious. "I assure you, Princess. It will taste just as good as, if not better than, how the others described." Luna glanced at the apple. She wanted to taste it. To be sure of his feelings before she confessed her own but her heart told her that was not the way. It wasn't the way life worked. You weren't allowed an insight into another pony's soul unless they offered it to you freely and of themselves. She accepted that sometimes in life things did not go your way. Ponies didn't always feel the same. Some love was meant to be unrequited. That was the risk anyone took in bearing their soul. A high risk situation in which the reward could be nearly anything. She looked up at him, and his puzzled look, and she took a deep breath as she reached up, wrapping her hooves around his hoof. She stared him in the eye and took another deep breath but as she opened her mouth Big Mac squeezed her hoof. Tightly. Tightly enough that her words caught and she just stared at him as his smile widened. "Please, try the apple, Princess." She removed one of her hooves from clasping his and gently picked up the apple. She took a very ladylike bite and Big Mac watched her intently as she stared at the apple, then at him, then back to the apple. She chewed slowly and swallowed, staring at him dumbfounded. "Well, how did it taste?" He asked. Suddenly, she lunged forward and embraced him tightly. He sat in shock for a moment, before returning the embrace. Luna pulled back and looked at him, her forelegs still on his shoulders. "Does that mean it was good?" He joked. Luna just smiled at him and nodded. "I do not know what to say, Macintosh. I have never dreamed of a moment like this. I am not usually such an emotional pony." Big Mac shrugged. "And I never dreamed I would fall I love with a princess." His simple statements made her smile every time. She leaned forward and kissed him gently. He was all too eager to reciprocate. As they parted, they simply smiled at each other. There was nothing left to say. They sat holding their hooves together and feeling like school ponies with their first crush. After a time Luna asked something she had been pondering, "Macintosh, would you be willing to grow usiku trees for us all every year?" "Eeyup. But you have to promise me something." "Anything." "Please call me Big Mac. I hate being called 'Macintosh.'" Luna giggled, thinking back to just how many times she had called him that. "Very well, Big Mac. But only if you will call me 'Luna' instead of 'Princess.'" "You've got yourself a deal." He winked at her. ----- Big Mac and Luna enjoyed a long and happy life together. Every year the crop of usiku trees grew and grew until they were forced to hire extra ponies to help care for the trees. Big Mac always planted all the seeds himself and always gave the first apple off the trees to Luna. Big Mac lived longer than most stallions due to his amazing work ethic, and having a goddess to come home to didn't hurt his drive to want to stay alive, either. But, as is the case with all mortals, Big Mac did die one day. Luna had been devastated, just as Celestia had warned. "Lulu?" Celestia entered Luna bedroom slowly and quietly. She had been raising and setting both sun and moon for nearly a month. Luna lay on her bed staring at the ceiling, dried tears staining her face. "Why did he have to die? We are the most powerful of all the ponies in the world and yet we cannot keep them alive no matter how much we want to." "Lulu, you knew this day would come. You enjoyed many years with Big Macintosh. More than most get. Your love for one another never faded. All those years ago, I cautioned you against your feelings, and even I am glad you ignored me. Big Macintosh brought more sunshine into our lives than even the sun could, and for that we will forever miss him. "But lying in this room, killing yourself over his death does his memory no justice, sister. You must have the strength to press forward. You must take all of that sunshine that he gave to you, all that happiness he blessed you with, and find a way to give it back to the world. Find a way to make his memory, and the mark he left on you, a part of other ponies. "I know the prospect of a life without him scares you, Luna. But you are strong. As strong as Big Macintosh himself. He made you that way. Do not let his absence control your life. There are many of us here to support you, Lulu." Luna closed her eyes on her bed, biting back another wave of tears. She was so tired of crying. "Thank you, sister." She sniffled. "I will raise the moon tomorrow night. But for now I have something to do." Celestia nodded and left Luna alone. Luna rose slowly. Sniffling again, she made her way out to the small garden she had been keeping since Big Mac had moved into the castle with her. As she wound her way past all the flowers and crops she kept, she came to the very edge of the garden, that had an overlook down to Ponyville. In front of the railing sat Big Mac's gravestone. After a request from Luna, the Apple family had been more than happy to allow him buried there. As she stared at his name on the stone she charged her horn and added an engraving below his name. Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared. Just a Little Fun**This particular chapter has nothing to do with the romance story of Luna and Mac. It's just a humorous idea I had while writing this. ~ Thanks for reading, everyone. Not long after Luna and Mac had revealed their feelings Big Mac made a special trip to Canterlot with a very inquisitive fashionista in tow. Big Mac answered only a few of her questions, mostly to ensure that she would have a good time and that she would be back in a timely manner. Rarity thought it odd, given his new relationship with Princess Luna but she eventually resigned herself to simply enjoying the trip with a good friend. When they had finally arrived Big Mac led her to a small restaurant where they sat and ate a fine meal. As the finished, Rarity daintily wiped her mouth and spoke. "Big Mac, I do appreciate you treating me to such a nice day trip but why exactly did you bring us here today?" Big Mac said nothing but pointed to a group of ponies sitting at a table not far from the two of them. Rarity quickly noted one of the ponies at the table, and the one Big Mac seemed to be indicating, was Prince Blueblood. "Him? What about him? Besides being," she paused searching for more polite words than swears, "besides being a jerk, what about him?" Big Mac smiled at her and spoke softly. "Just watch, Miss Rarity." Rarity again glanced at the table and noticed a familiar looking waiter bringing a small glowing apple sliced into several pieces toward their table. "Compliments of the house, folks." Rarity gasped. "Big Macintosh, you're going to give one of your delicious apples to that horrid stallion? Why would you.. ?" Big Mac reached out and gently touched her shoulder. "Miss Rarity. Just watch." Rarity turned her attention again to the table. Everyone seemed delighted by this new surprise fruit they were being treated to. Each sang the praises of how delicious it was. When Blueblood took a big bite of his slice he immediately spat it out and began trying to find something to take the taste out of his mouth. "Oh my! That is the most horrid thing I've ever tasted in my entire life! Waiter! Why would you bring us such a disgusting dessert!?" A different waiter rushed to the table and questioned them on what happened. Blueblood explained that another waiter had brought them a free dessert and that it had been horrid, though the other ponies at the table didn't exactly share Blueblood's disgust. The waiter calmly explained that the restaurant also never gave complimentary food, as a policy. Which brought a tirade from Blueblood but several of his stallion friends spoke up and began to give Blueblood a hard time about pestering the waiter just because he had gotten the bad part of the apple. Blueblood quickly became flustered and stormed out of the restaurant followed by chuckles from the ponies at his table. Rarity looked at Big Macintosh. "But why did he..?" "Not like it when I like every pony? A little secret between you and me, Miss Rarity. I don't much care for him, either." Rarity giggled herself silly. "Oh, Big Macintosh that was fantastic. The best dessert I've ever had, you could say. Just one question, who brought them the apple in the first place?" Big Mac pointed at the pegasus walking out of the bathrooms, Rarity recognized him as Soarin' of the Wonderbolts. Big Mac gave him a slight wave and Soarin' gave a smile and a nod as he proceeded to a small table with a rather large slice if pie waiting on a plate. Big Mac leaned in close to Rarity. "Let's just say he's a huge fan of Granny Smith's zap apple pie." Rarity again lost herself in a fit of laughter as they both rose and exited the restaurant. "Thank you, Big Mac, for this lovely day." "No. Thank you, Miss Rarity. For your kind words the other week. You really gave me the push I needed." Rarity smiled at him. "We'll call it even then." They shared another laugh as they boarded the train bound for Ponyville.
Chapter 1Big Mac huffed as he shrugged the plow off. He reveled in this portion of the back fields. It felt like his own private playground from time to time. The main farm had always kept him more than busy, so he'd never had much of a hobby. But now, in this small patch of land, far behind the farm house, and just a little out of the way, he'd found an area to call his own. He looked over what he considered his private field and smiled. Several plots in the ground glowed dimly as Zecora said they would. He inspected each and covered a few with some extra dirt. These were apple trees he wanted to keep special from the family. He wanted to surprise them. Wanted to show Granny Smith that zap apples, though delicious, were not the only special kind of apple the world had to offer. The particular kind of apple he was growing he was mildly unsure about. Zecora had said that these kinds of apple trees were fragile. She had called them, usiku trees. She said they were a special kind of apple tree from her homeland that produced a very special "night apple." She claimed their beauty was rivaled only by their exquisite taste. Big Mac crossed the small field one more time. Satisfied that each potential tree had been given the utmost care and attention it deserved, he picked up the plow and began to make his way back to the barn. He stopped short, however, when he noticed something moving in the night sky. It looked as if the stars themselves had shifted. He squinted hard and realized the stars were shifting and not just shifting but getting closer. He found himself thinking back to all the foalstales he'd heard as a colt of the sky falling. He knew it was impossible but the thought of the sky coming to crash down on him have him a bit of a panic. He hefted the plow off of himself and readied to run when he caught the shape of a pony among the stars. Again he squinted, what pony would look so much like the stars? What pony would be coming to visit him at this part of the farm, and this late? As the figure drew ever closer his eyes slowly began to widen. "Well, I'll be." Big Mac bowed his head as Princess Luna landed in front of him. Luna stood for a moment. She was unsure of this particular stallion's name and she did not want address him as "subject" and set the tone as if she were there on royal business. So she opted for a smile and an ever so simple, "Hello." Big Mac kept his head bowed low. His mind had been racing with why the Princess would come to see him of all ponies. He was so lost in his own thoughts he didn't even hear the hello. Luna frowned for a moment, hoping she wasn't intimidating such a large stallion. She knew being a princess carried certain downsides but being feared was never really something she wanted. At least, not anymore. She reapplied her smile and leaned down to catch his eye and spoke a little louder this time, "Hello?" That time her voice caught his ear and he looked quickly around to see her own head down parallel to his own. Her smile did little to calm his nerves but it was better than a frown. He found her deep blue eyes staring into his and remembered he was supposed to say something. "Uhh... Pleasure to meet you, Princess Luna." Luna's smile faded briefly. She hoped she could convince him to relax because she had many questions about his glowing garden. Though it was becoming apparent that even a stallion like this couldn't look past her position as a princess. Mac searched his mind for anything else to say to her. The silence was becoming awkward but her sudden appearance had left him uncharacteristically flustered. When he could think of nothing to say and Luna could not think of a way to let him relax, she admitted defeat to herself and took off without a word. Disappearing into the night sky once again. With a hefty sigh, Big Mac looked up and watched her as long as he could, until she was indiscernible from the rest of the stars. Glancing back at the still glowing plots, he shouldered the plow and began his trek back toward the barn. After unloading the harness and walking slowly back to the house Mac found himself staring up at the stars once again. He replayed the awkward moment with the princess in his mind and he was disappointed with himself. He was never stallion of many words but he usually did have the right thing to say when it needed to be said. Tonight he had missed that moment and he knew it. Staring up at the gleaming stars he smiled and said, "Good night, Princess." ----- Luna swore at herself as she drifted through the air aimlessly. "'Nice garden.' That's all I had to say. Why can't I talk to these ponies yet? I've worked so hard to adjust but ponies still only see me as the princess." She sighed heavily. She hated that she had been gone for so long. When she had lived in the palace before her banishment she had talked to few ponies but they were enough to keep her happy. After having been away for so long, all her friends that she'd had were now gone. So she attempted to make new friends, but the ones that didn't run in fear of Nightmare Moon, were usually too caught up on her being royalty to have a normal conversation with her. She sighed again and swayed from side to side as she flew. She would make another attempt at it again soon. Perhaps even with the same stallion. His garden had looked so familiar to her but she couldn't place why.
Chapter 2Big Mac awoke the next day a little later than usual. Normally, he was the first one up but today he could hear the family downstairs. He rolled out of bed and headed downstairs, moving with surprising quickness for a stallion of his size. No one seemed to notice or even mention that he was late to breakfast. He sat at his usual place and ate silently as was the norm for him. Big Mac ate his breakfast a little slower than usual. He was lost in his thoughts. He wondered how the usiku trees were doing. He hoped even one made it to fruition so he could surprise the family. Thinking of the trees invariably led to thinking of his visit from Luna. He replayed that painfully awkward moment again and shook his head shamefully at himself. After they had all finished breakfast, Applejack and Big Mac headed out to tend the fields. AJ discussed everything that need done and Mac nodded along throwing out an "Eeyup" whenever was necessary. When finally Applejack paused she looked at Mac and noticed him not really listening. "Something bothering you, big brother?" "Eenope." "Come on now. I don't have to be the Element of Honesty to know that's a lie. What's eatin' you?" Big Mac sometimes resented her upfront attitude but her intentions were always placed among love and he could not dislike her for that. "You met Princess Luna, right?" "I sure have." "What's she like?" "Well, from what I remember, she was trying to make everyone not scared of her on Nightmare Night. She's pretty nice nowadays but some ponies don't know how to act around her. Why do you ask?" Mac fumbled with his words, not wanting to reveal he'd seen her at his secret plot of land. "Uhh.. I was just wondering. I had a strange dream last night and she was in it and.. I was just wondering." Applejack eyed him with suspicions before her eyes shot wide. "Now I know why you're askin'!" "What!? Why?" "You like her, don't you?" Applejack dissolved into giggles at his expense. Big Mac blushed and appreciated that it was hard to tell that from his red coat. "No! Well, I mean, yes, she's pretty but that's not why I asked. Ugh. Can we get to work?" Applejack stifled her laughter and nodded. "Why're you in such a rush? Got a hot date tonight?" Big Mac rolled his eyes and walked past his sister, who was losing herself in another fit of laughter, and headed to the barn for the start of his long day of hard work. ----- Luna watched as her sister began to lower the sun on the horizon just as she was raising the moon. Old feelings if resentment flared as she notices several ponies staring at the beautiful colors of the sunset. Her anger teetered out as she looked over the land and noticed a red speck standing in the middle of the farm she had visited the night before. He seemed to be stopped and watching the moon rise. She appreciated that, and him. Mac stared as the moon rose slowly. Ponies sometimes said they could see Luna raising it but he never had. He had a hard time distinguishing her from the other stars that came with the night. He was happy to see the moon tonight though because he knew he'd soon be able to check on his secret trees. He found himself reveling in having a secret and even a time to look forward to. Farm work could be a bit unrewarding at times. He smiled to himself. He would have a good time with his new hobby. He returned to the barn to make sure all was in order before sitting down to dinner with the family. Apple Bloom hadn't earned her cutie mark but she had earned a few new bruises and she regaled them with the tale. They chuckled and ate mostly in silence. Big Mac enjoyed his meal and relaxed a bit before he would go back to work. When everyone had gone to bed, Big Mac made his way outside and to the barn. He wouldn't need the plow but he wanted to make sure the trees were watered and had the best chance at growing big and strong. As he approached his secret garden he noticed a dark colored pony standing at the edge of it. He hoped it wasn't someone who had stumbled across the ground and now would spread the word. Princess Luna stood at the edge of the garden and eyed the glowing plots. She couldn't place where she had seen them before, but her memory told her it was something rare that led to a great feast. No, not a feast. It had been an intimate affair she had shared with only her family. Something special. Big Mac moved slowly hoping to not startle her and then he noticed something familiar. Her tail shined like all the stars in the sky. He swallowed hard. Now he very much hoped he didn't startle her. When he was as close as he dared to get and she hadn't heard him he set down the watering can and cleared his throat gently. Luna nearly jumped out of her skin, which, in turn, caused Big Mac to nearly jump out of his skin. A yelp from Luna as she turned around elicited a yelp from Mac as he backed up quickly. When Luna recognized him her panic subsided and she sighed heavily. "Didn't anyone ever tell you it's not polite to sneak up on ponies?" Big Mac bowed instinctively. "I'm sorry, Princess Luna. Please don't be mad at me." Princess Luna rolled her eyes at him. How could such a large and muscular stallion be such a pushover? She walked over to him and put a hoof on his shoulder. "Arise. You do not need to fear me. It's my fault I was startled since I am the one trespassing on your land." Big Mac looked up at her, still very aware that she was a princess, but he relaxed slightly as he stood up straight. "You're not trespassing, Princess. You can go wherever you like. I'm just surprised you would choose to come here." "Why is that? This is Sweet Apple Orchards, is it not? Your farms reputation reaches far and wide. Why wouldn't I want to come here?" Luna smiled at him. Happy that he had finally spoken and that her research of this farm from earlier today had paid off. "I guess, but, if you wanted to see the farm, why not come during the day?" "Because unlike most ponies I work only at night and therefore sleep during the day. Also, I am only interested in these particular trees. They spark a memory but I cannot recall it clearly. What can you tell me about these glowing plots of land?" Luna turned and pointed to the dim circles that dotted the garden. Big Mac grabbed the watering can and worked as he talked. "Well, Princess, I don't rightly know much about them. All I know is that they only grow with moonlight and that they're supposed to be delicious." "Hmm," Luna stared intently at one of the plots, "Where did you get the seeds? And what do you call them?" "From Zecora, Princess. They're called usiku trees. Supposedly very rare." Luna's eyes widened as she heard the name. "These are usiku trees!?" Her sudden outburst caused Big Mac to freeze and nod at her slowly. "These are the rarest fruit in all of Equestria! They do not always grow into delicious fruits though. They have to be greatly cared for or the fruit will be poisonous to anyone who eats it." "Well, that shouldn't be a problem, Princess. I know a thing or two about caring for apple trees; these can't be too much harder. I'll just show 'em a little more attention and they should be right as rain." Luna wanted to accept that. Clearly, he did know what he was talking about. She couldn't take that chance though. "I'll need to research this. Promise me that you will take the utmost care of these trees and make sure no one accidentally ventures here." "I promise, Princess. I chose this spot because it's pretty out of the way, so no one should find it back here." Luna nodded and turned to take off but stopped herself and turned back to him. "Please, what is your name?" "Macintosh, Princess." "Very well, Macintosh. I will return in a few days’ time when I have fully researched these plants." In a flash, she was gone. Big Mac watched her go then his mind replayed the tail end of their conversation. "Consarnit.. Why did I tell her Macintosh? I hate that name." He sighed as he picked up his watering can and finished watering the trees. As he reached the last plot he noticed something in the dirt. Brushing it gently with his hoof he realized it was a sprout. "What the... They shouldn't be sprouting that fast. Maybe I should do a little research too." Big Mac returned to the farm, returning the watering can to the barn and as he approached the house he gave the night sky one last look. "She sure is a lot prettier than I remember."
Chapter 3Princess Luna flipped through several books, looking to gather all the information she could on usiku trees. Unfortunately, like the trees themselves, good information on them was also extremely rare. She cried out and threw her hooves up in frustration and exhaustion. It was nearly noon. She was well past her bed time. Princess Celestia heard the commotion as she passed the library and stopped to check on the source. "Hello? Is anyone in here?" Princess Luna moved through the stacks of books and into view of Celestia. "It's just me, sister," she sighed. "I'm looking for information but it's proving to be a fruitless endeavor." "Perhaps I can help. What are you looking for?" "Information on these." Luna set down an old book in front of Celestia and opened it to the appropriate page. On the page was a well drawn picture of a full grown usiku tree and below it was labeled as such. "Usiku trees? Those haven't been around for nearly 800 years. No one could get the fruit to grow properly. Why are you looking for information on them?" "Well, I'm looking for a specific piece of information. Wasn't there a side effect of the fruit that resulted in a poisonous death?" Celestia thought for a moment. "Yes, I do recall instances of that happening but it was a rare occurrence. Why are you so worried about this, sister? You should be resting before the night." "Because there is a stallion in Ponyville that is growing usiku trees." "Really? Who is that?" "Macintosh of the Apple family. I trust in his ability to raise a nonpoisonous fruit but I wanted to know more about them." "Oh, well, if Big Macintosh thinks he can grow them properly I have to agree. That stallion does know apples." "I am simply wary of what may be an ulterior motive." "From Big Macintosh?" Celestia chuckled softly. "You needn't worry, sister. Of all the ponies in Ponyville, I believe the Apple family to be some of the most kind hearted among them." Luna began to protest but she sighed in weary resignation. Celestia was probably right. She had always been a good judge of character, and she had actually been around to meet the ponies in her kingdom. She bid Celestia good day and retired to her room. She would visit the farm in the evening to check on Macintosh and his trees. ----- Big Mac cleared away a few branches from his secret garden. The weather ponies had given them a doozy of a storm the day before and some of the trees on the farm had been damaged. Though he was surprised to find debris this far out. He finished his work quietly and quickly. Staying up later than normal had made his normal day work a bit more difficult and Applejack was beginning to notice. As he closed the gate of the fence he had built behind him he looked up at the night sky. It had been nearly a week since Princess Luna told him to keep an eye on the trees. He had attempted to learn more about them but Twilight had not had any books pertaining to these kinds of trees. At this point, he was beginning to wonder if Luna had simply been pulling his leg and they weren't so rare. Still, he looked up at the night sky and began a ritual that had been making him feel better about the strange trees, already nearly as tall as him, in his garden. "Well, Princess Luna, nothing unusual to report tonight. The trees still don't have any fruit buds but that's not surprising with how young they are. They're starting to glow at the trunk now, which is pretty but I think I'll need to find a way to hide it so no one sees it from a distance and comes to investigate." "Very good, Macintosh. That was an excellent report. How did you know I was here?" Luna's voice rose from Big Mac's left. He stood stark still trying to calm his beating heart. She had scared the willies out of him and all his hair stood on end. "Uh.. Just intuition, I guess, Princess." She emerged from the bushes and approached him. "Well, you have keen senses, that is certain. Tell me, is it normal for new trees to be this large?" Big Mac scratched his head slowly. "Not that I've ever seen, Princess. Most trees take years to reach their full size. These seem to be growing much faster." "Fascinating." They stood in silence for a moment, both staring at the faintly glowing trees, back lit by the moon, neither realizing how romantic of a setting it was. "Princess Luna?" "Yes, Macintosh?" He cringed at the name. "Did you learn anything else about the trees or their fruit?" Luna shook her head. "No. They are very old trees that haven't been grown in centuries. My research was fruitless." Big Mac chuckled. "Fruitless. That's a good one, Princess." Luna looked at him quizzically and he stopped laughing. "Sorry." "I'm afraid I must be off for the evening, Macintosh. I have business to attend to in the castle." "Don't mind me, Princess. I'm only here to grow some trees." He smiled more to himself than at her but she smiled back. "Oh, and, Princess?" "Yes?" "If you want to come back every evening I usually have a report. I've been writing them down because these trees are so strange but sometimes it's ...." His voice trailed off. "What was that?" "Sometimes it's nice to have company." He repeated, sheepishly, as he realized he was asking a princess to come keep him company. "Very well. I would like to learn more about these trees so perhaps we could learn together." He smiled again. This time at her. "Good night, Macintosh." "Good night, Princess." As Princess Luna reached her peak in the sky she looked back down to see Mac's shadowy figure moving back toward the farmhouse. She turned her attention back toward the castle but her mind lingered on their conversation. "Oh! Fruitless!" She chuckled to herself as she flew off into the night.
Chapter 4"What's eatin' you, Big Mac? You've been slower than a mule in molasses all week." Applejack walked the grounds with Big Mac, as they cleared away the last of the tree limbs from between the rows of apple trees. Big Mac trotted up to her with a trailer of sticks in tow behind him. "I've just been feeling under the weather is all. I'll be right as rain next week." "Yea. And I'll be elected mayor of Ponyville. What's got you so distracted? You darn near run over my hoof yesterday, you watered my tail the day before that, that's not like you." She eyed him closely. He brushed off her questions. "I'm just not feeling good and I'm not sleeping well. It's nothing, AJ. Stop worryin' so much." "Hmph. Whatever you say." Applejack walked away from him, a bit annoyed. Big Mac hated lying to her but he felt this would be a secret worth keeping so he could surprise her and the others. The truth was, he really wasn't sleeping well. He'd been having some very vivid dreams about a certain alicorn that had fallen into his life and he was developing certain feelings for her. He was confused about these feelings, though. After all, she was a princess and he just a common stallion. He had never really dreamed of meeting the princesses personally, let alone actually dreaming of them. He resigned himself to what would be his lot, this plot of land and a common mare. No princess would ever dream of taking him out of all the other stallions in her choices. He took his time heading back to the barn, their work for the day was done which meant plenty of downtime before dinner and his garden time. He had planned to write down the notes from last night and perhaps catch up on some much needed sleep but as he returned to the farmhouse he could see his plan was already spoiled. "Oh, there you are, Big Mac! I was just talking to Applejack about a new clothing line I want to run but I need a rather strapping male model." Big Mac smiled as Rarity rambled. He had always liked her. She may be a bit prissy for his tastes but he always found her amusing. "Anyway, long story short," Too late, Mac thought, "would you be so kind as to be my model for the evening?" "No problem at all, Miss Rarity. If you'll give me one minute to take care of something I'd be happy to help." Rarity nodded and turned her attention, and her knack for rambling, onto Applejack as Big Mac made his way inside and up to his room. He grabbed the notebook he'd been using and scribbled the observations from last night in and reminded himself that Princess Luna would be coming by so he had to be free of Rarity at a decent time. He was certain that wouldn't be a problem. ----- "So, Big Mac, do you have any special someponies in your life?" Rarity asked, nonchalantly, as she worked her magic. After what had been hours of mostly silence, Big Mac was caught off guard by the question. "Umm.. Not really, I suppose. There is one mare I sorta fancy but she's out of my league." "Nonsense! You're a catch for any mare. A strong worker, intelligent, generous and kind. Any mare would be lucky to have you." Big Mac blushed rather deeply, happy that Rarity had not paused to look at him as she spoke. "Thank you." "You're very welcome. So tell me about this mare. Is she an Earth pony, a unicorn, or a pegasus? What does she look like?" Rarity's natural curiosity and gossipy nature had kicked in. Big Mac thought for a moment. "She's a pegasus. She's got very dark colored fur and a purple mane." "Ah, black and purple are such a glorious color combination. Like, Princess Luna, her coat and mane are just exquisite. Tell me more about this mystery mare. What's she like?" Big Mac again had to think. "She's... Different. Not like most ponies in town. She's a bit old fashioned, I guess. She's funny but she doesn't always catch her own jokes. And she seems pretty interested in apples." "She sounds like quite a lady. What makes you think she's out of your league?" Rarity held up the garment she was sewing before adjusting it in the machine and getting back to work. "We just lead different lives. I work all day and she works all night. And she could have her choice of any stallion in Equestria. With that many more successful and rich stallions to choose from, I don't think she'd ever pick me." Rarity paused in her work and turned to him. "You mustn't think like that. You have to realize that sometimes being rich and successful isn't what makes ponies happy. Sometimes it's hard work, determination, and, dare I say, a little dirt in your mane that makes ponies the happiest they've ever been. You said this mare of yours likes apples, is there some kind of apple that grows at night?" She turned back to her work. "Umm.. Yes. But they are very rare." "Well, then perhaps your best chance of 'wooing' this mare is to find a way to grow those trees. Tell her that one tree in particular is hers and then you can help her to grow that tree and from that blossoming tree so too shall your love blossom." Rarity stopped working once again and sighed delightfully to herself. "Or perhaps I'm just reading too many romance novels and wishing that Blue Blood hadn't been such a.." She exhaled sharply, "Such an uncouth gentlecolt." Big Mac chuckled softly, both at her advice and her disdain for Blue Blood. "Don't you worry a hair on your head about him, Miss Rarity. Colts like him always getting what's coming to them in the end." "Yes, I just wish that end would come sooner rather than later. So when will you next see this mare of yours?" "Well, I'm supposed to meet her tonight," he paused as he looked at the clock on the wall. "Oh no." "'Oh no?' Don't tell me I've made you miss a date?" "Not really a date, but.. I'm a bit on the late side." Rarity gathered up the clothes she had draped over him and tossed them onto a mannequin. "That just won't do. I won't have you missing a chance at love by being here with me. Go to her. I'll finish this up and come by the farm to have you try it on." Big Mac stepped down off of the pedestal he'd been standing on. "Thank you, Miss Rarity." He made his way out of her home and took off down the street toward Sweet Apple Acres. Rarity watched him disappear into the night from her window and sighed. "Oh, to be young and in love." She glanced at the picture of herself and Fluttershy that she kept on her desk and smiled warmly. ----- Princess Luna sat at the gate to the garden and looked around. She had arrived at the same time she usually did but Macintosh was nowhere in sight. She had been waiting for nearly 15 minutes before she entered the gate slowly. She walked the small garden and noticed a few of the trees seemed to be wilting. With the help of her magic she summoned a small rain cloud and moved it from plot to plot, giving each an ample drink. She inspected each tree individually and agreed that the trunks would need to be covered if they were expected to remain secret. She made a mental note to look up a spell that might help with that. After her inspection, she leaned against the gate and waited a few minutes more before her patience ran out. She produced a piece of paper and quill and left Macintosh a note before she took off into the night. Big Mac came running up only moments after Luna had taken off. He spotted her for a moment in the sky before she disappeared. He swore to himself about being late and moved to enter the garden when he spotted the note. Dear Macintosh, Nothing new to report this evening. I watered the trees because they looked slightly wilted. I believe they may be exposed to too much direct sunlight during the day so I will dispatch a cloud unit to the appropriate location in the sky to block some sunlight for them. I do not begrudge you for not being here tonight. I know you work very hard during the day and there will be times you must get sleep, as the "day apples" are more important than these few "night apples." On those nights, I will be happy to do any work the trees may require, though you may have to teach me proper techniques. Also, I will research a way to hide the glow from the trunks. The last thing our garden needs is a curious and hungry pony happening across it. Sleep well and I will see you soon, Luna Big Mac read that last paragraph twice. "Our garden." He smiled. Maybe Rarity's ridiculous plan wasn't so ridiculous after all. Perhaps with 'their garden' she would find him more than just a common stallion. His feelings grew as he walked back to the farmhouse. He was beginning to enjoy staying up so late.
Chapter 5Over the next few nights, Big Mac taught Luna the basics of caring for apple trees. Realistically, there isn't much to know, and Big Mac knew that, but, in an attempt to talk to her and keep her around a bit longer, he would often go in depth on things that were rather easily understood. Princess Luna never questioned him. She stood as an eager student and seemed excited to be a part of the garden. In fact, Luna was excited. Excited she had finally connected with another pony. Granted, this particular connection was more of a research project but she was having fun all the same. She had long missed this sort of connection with her subjects. She finally had someone to talk to. As they would work in tandem, Big Mac would try to be purposefully clumsy at times. Bumping into her as he worked was one he often did. He blamed it on the fact that he normally worked alone but really he just wanted to be a bit closer to her. He didn't feel particularly proud of his actions but he could not possibly tell her how he felt. At least, not yet. Luna found his bumbling rather odd. When amongst the trees, he moved with care and grace that she didn't think possible from a stallion of his size, but, when around her, he would often trip over his own hooves, it seemed. She chalked it up to him not being completely comfortable around her yet, but she was happy he was able to see past her being a princess to teach her these new things. They had finished their work for the evening and were both leaning on the fence and staring at the trees. "They sure are growing fast," Big Mac commented. Luna nodded in response. "I should have the shroud spell ready by tomorrow. It will keep their glow hidden at great distances." "Well, I'd best be gettin' to bed. If AJ has to wake me up in the morning again I think she's gonna use a bucket of cold water." Luna giggled. "Then I believe sleep now would be the right choice. Good night, Macintosh." "Good night, princess." Princess Luna flew off into the night and Big Mac lingered on the fence for a moment. He enjoyed his moment alone until he heard movement behind him. He turned quickly and stared a familiar white unicorn in the face. "Miss Rarity?" She nodded. "I don't mean to startle you but I couldn't sleep so I decided to deliver the outfit I made for you to try on. After I left it on your front porch, I noticed a glowing coming from this direction and decided to have a little adventure. Was that the special somepony you told me about, Big Mac?" He panicked for a moment, not sure if she'd been able to recognize Princess Luna from a distance. He decided with as dark as it was and the fact that Luna hadn't turned around that Rarity couldn't have seen her horn to make the connection. "Yep. We come out here to visit some nights. Just because it's so quiet." "It seems very romantic. Are these the trees that grow night apples?" She asked, motioning to the small garden behind him. "Oh, uh, yes. But don't tell anyone about them. I'm gonna surprise the family with them when they're fully grown." "Not to worry, dear. I won't tell a soul. So how are things with your mare friend?" Rarity gave him a wink as she used the term. Big Mac blushed slightly as he began to walk back toward the farmhouse. "Well, she's not my mare friend. She doesn't even know how I feel. And I'm not even sure she feels the same way." Rarity nodded and fell in step with him as they headed back. "Yes, love can be difficult to deal with. Are you at least bonding over this garden of yours?" Big Mac nodded. "We're having a lot of fun. These trees are a bit strange so it's been a learning experience for both of us." "Well, that's good. But you should attempt to explain your feelings to her before the trees are come and gone." Big Mac sighed heavily. "I just don't know, Miss Rarity. Right now I'm just enjoying my time with her." Rarity stopped in front of the farmhouse with him and lowered her voice to make sure only he heard her. "And that's wonderful, but enjoying your time with an immortal is like saying the best part of Christmas is sleeping the day away." Big Mac went pale. She had seen enough to recognize Luna. He stammered and tried to explain but Rarity cut him off. "It's alright, dear. The heart wants what the heart wants. I won't tell a soul. But you should tell her so you two can enjoy the time that you have before your time is up." Big Mac nodded slowly. His stomach was still doing cartwheels at the knowledge that his secret was no longer secret. "But I'm just a farmer. What would she want with a stallion like me?" Rarity stroked his face with her hoof and angled his face toward her own, so she could look him in the eyes. "Because what I told you the other evening is true. You are a catch. For any mare." She leaned up and kissed his cheek. "Don't worry. Your secret is safe with me. Good night, Big Mac." Big Mac watched her go in silence while his mind and stomach still practiced their acrobatics routine. He must've stood there for 10 minutes before a drop of rain on his head brought him back to reality. He glanced up and saw a rainbow colored pony give him a wave and motion him inside before she went back to work arranging the clouds for that evening's storm. He wandered slowly inside and up to his room where he fell into bed. Sleep came quickly due to his level if exhaustion from working almost constantly now, but this night would be filled with restless dreams.
Chapter 6Princess Luna hummed happily to herself as she wrote notes in a book she'd been keeping on the usiku trees. She wanted to make sure these trees could be grown for all to enjoy in the future. She sighed happily as she closed the book and leaned back in her chair. For the second time in as many weeks, Celestia heard the noise as she passed by the library and entered to investigate. She found Luna still humming and daydreaming with her eyes closed. "Sister, shouldn't you be just dreaming instead of day dreaming?" Celestia chuckled softly as her sister jumped. Regaining her composure, Luna smiled. "I suppose but when I dream it is day time. So all my dreams are day dreams." They shared a giggle. "What are you doing back in the library? Still researching the usiku trees?" "Quite the contrary. I am chronicling them. To ensure future generations might always know how to grow them." "That's very good! So I assume you and Big Macintosh are having success in growing the trees?" Luna nodded happily. "Indeed, we are. Macintosh is a wonder to behold as he moves among the trees. He is a strong and intimidating stallion but his grace and poise are unseen anywhere else in Equestria. His knowledge of the trees and how he expects them to grow are unmatched, as well. He truly is a master of his craft." Celestia nodded. "The Apple family never ceases to impress. Be mindful of your feelings though, sister." Luna looked at her in confusion. "What about my feelings?" "Do not become too attached to Big Macintosh. He may be a fine stallion but he will die long before you or I. Trust in me when I say that the heartache you receive is crippling." Celestia voice trailed of at the end of that statement as she recalled some memories best left forgotten. "I thank you for the advice, sister, but I think you misunderstand my intentions." Celestia shook her head. "I understand them perfectly. Your study of the usiku trees comes first and foremost in your mind but that is not the only reason you go there." "You're right. I go because Macintosh is the only pony who has not run in fear or been distracted by my position of power. He offers good conversations and support for my learning endeavors. He is a friend. Nothing more." The irritation in her voice was clear. "And yet as you describe him you sound like a school filly with a crush. I am not saying you must act upon your feelings or that you shouldn't be feeling them. I am only advising you to stay mindful of our long life and the rather short lives our subjects lead in comparison." Celestia tried to remain calm and make it clear to Luna that she only wanted to help. Luna picked up the book she had been writing her notes in and made for the door of the library. "And I am advising you that I do not have feelings for Macintosh or any other stallion." Luna stomped out of the library. Celestia watched her go and shook her head. She spoke to herself. "Be careful, dear sister. Deny your feelings too long and the one you hold them for will be gone before you've had time to enjoy their company." Luna stomped into her room and tried to quell her anger. After 1,000 years away, she had learned that her anger would get her nowhere. She laid on her large bed and opened her book, rereading all of the notes she had taken. They were meticulous. Focused solely on the trees. She never once mentioned Macintosh and as she read the notes she did not think of him. She was as much a scientist as Twilight Sparkle. However, as she set the book aside and let her mind wander, she replayed her argument with Celestia, and thought about what she had said. "How did I describe him that would make it seem like I have feelings for him?" She closed her eyes and furrowed her brows. Sometimes she hated when Celestia pointed out things like this. She enjoyed her scientific nature, and didn't let personal relationships get in her way. Her mind wandered to Macintosh and, for the first time, she pictured him not as a teacher but as a stallion. She thought of his gentle nature amongst the trees, his relaxed demeanor as he dealt with working night and day, of his impressive strength to do everything he did. As she thought of all of this, something in her mind clicked. She did have feelings for him. She pulled a pillow over her face and screamed into it. Why did Celestia have to point this out? Things had been simple and uncomplicated. Now Luna was astutely aware of how she felt which would certainly make things awkward. And how could she even deal with this? Macintosh had been too afraid to even say hello to her on their first meeting. He would probably wet himself if he knew how she felt. Luna sighed to herself. She would simply ignore the feelings. What other choice did she have? She did not want to scare off the one pony who had been able to accept her as something beyond a princess. Content with her plan, and also upset with it, she curled up on her bed with her pillow held close to her. She daydreamed of Macintosh for several minutes before drifting off into a real dream. ----- Big Mac had been on auto pilot all day. He drifted from place to place on the farm, completing the work desired of him, but his mind was miles away. He thought of what he would say to Luna if he ever confessed his feelings. He thought of the hundreds of ways that conversation could go. In his mind, most ended with him never seeing her again. This thought depressed him. Beyond his deeper feelings for her he did enjoy their time together. She had been eager to learn about the apples and it felt nice to have someone new to talk to. He found that he loved her, not just as a mare, but as a companion, as well. An apple to the head shook him from his daze. "Are you gonna daydream all day?" Applejack's voice rose from behind him and he turned to her. "I reckon so." He answered sarcastically. "Are you done with the north field?" She nodded proudly. "And in record time. I'm headed to the house for a drink. I'll be back out to help you when I'm done." "Don't even worry about it, sis. Put your hooves up and relax. I've been out of sorts all week. No reason for you to do extra work on account of me." Applejack smiled. "Alright, but you have this field done by supper or Granny's gonna be mad." She tipped her hat to him and left him to his work. Big Mac surveyed what he had left of the field. He was nearly done. Barely a quarter to go. He let his mind wander again as he set back to work. What if I tell her once the fruits ripen? Naw. Then she'll have no reason to come back anyway. Or if I gave her one as a gift and told her how I feel as she eats it. But then she'll probably spit it all over my face in shock.. He sighed and continued to test scenarios in his mind as he finished up the last of the field. After finishing the field, he gave it a once over to be sure of the quality of his work before turning back toward the farmhouse. In the distance, he spotted a purple unicorn trotting toward him and waving. "Hi Big Mac!" He smiled warmly. "Howdy, Twilight! What brings you out this way?" "Well, AJ said I could find you out here. You're not busy, are you?" "Not at all. Just finished up." He sat under a tree and patted the ground next to him. "Pull up a tree and have a seat." She giggled and sat down next to him. "So what can I do you for, Twilight?" "Well, actually, I came to tell you something important. About those trees you were asking about before." Big Mac sat up a little bit and made sure Applejack and Apple Bloom were not around to hear. Twilight gave him a quizzical look. "I'm trying to surprise them with the trees," he explained. "Oh. Well, about the trees. You may want to be careful with the fruit they bear." "Why's that? And I thought you didn't have any books on them." "Neither did I. Apparently, Spike filed it in the Rare & Magical section because the trees haven't been around in so long. But about the fruit, you have to be careful with who you give it to." He raised an eyebrow but remained silent, allowing her to continue. "Apparently, the fruit can be poisonous." "You make it sound like it isn't always that way." She shook her head. "It's not. It has something to do with emotions and feelings of the ponies involved. The negatives weren't covered very extensively but it did note that the more positive you feel about a particular pony, the better the fruit tastes. So, I imagine your family will love it, because you love them. But someone you don't like may find it bitter and if you don't like them enough or hate them, they may get very ill or even die." Big Mac was a bit shocked to say the least but he smiled at her. "Then it's a good thing I like every pony in town." Twilight laughed. "That's what I thought you'd say. Just be careful with the fruits. They don't respond to what you say but to what you feel deep down. Your truest emotions are literally grown into these apples." An idea clicked into Big Mac's head and he smiled broadly. "By any chance, did your book say how long it took the fruits to grow?" "Umm.. I think about three to four weeks. But they can only be grown once a year. They release spores into the air that prevent any more from being planted within 100 miles. These spores die off in winter." Big Mac nodded and stood up. "Well, thank you kindly, Twilight. That's a big help." Twilight stood with him and smiled. "You're very welcome." ----- Luna awoke late in the afternoon. Her mood soured when she realized the perfect world she had been living in in her dream was simply that. She sat up groggily and stared at the note book not far from her on the bed. "Just research. Nothing more." She took a deep breath and exhaled sharply. "No matter how much I wish for more." She placed the book gently on the nightstand beside her bed and made a mental note to credit Macintosh somewhere in the book. It was the least she could do. Leaving for the evening to raise the moon and study the trees she felt apprehensive for the first time. As she flew, she steeled her resolve and assured herself that regardless of her feelings she would still have a good time.
Chapter 8Luna worked mostly alone on the trees for the next few nights. Macintosh had been right in saying there wasn't much left to do but watch the apples grow. Despite this truth, Luna felt comfortable among the trees. Something about them was warm and inviting to her. She exited the fencing and leaned on it, staring at the trees, sighing softly. "Any day now," she said to no one in particular. "Princess Luna?" The voice came from behind her and she turned slowly, stepping out of the fog she greeted Twilight Sparkle. "Be careful in the fog, Twilight Sparkle." She stepped back inside the fog disappearing almost immediately as she opened the gate and reentered the garden. Twilight gingerly followed her, making sure not to bump into anything. As she cleared the fog she looked up at the usiku trees standing before her and her eyes grew wide. "Princess, they're beautiful." Luna nodded. "Indeed they are. Now tell me, Twilight Sparkle, why did you wish to see the trees?" Twilight stared a moment longer before answering the question posed to her. "Big Macintosh had made the trees sound so amazing, I wanted to see them before they were gone. I asked him to keep a notebook of proper care techniques and their growth pattern, as well." "Before they are gone? What do you know of these trees, Twilight?" Twilight took a moment to explain to Luna everything detailed in the book she had found in the library. She told her about the usiku trees short lifespan and accelerated growth time. Explained why the trees would be unable to be planted again until after the coming winter and how the person who planted the fruits was in charge of how they tasted. "What do you mean? Macintosh can simply decide how the fruit tastes?" "Not exactly. The fruits are grown not only from moonlight and water. They are grown with the love inside the very pony who plants them. As a result of that, other ponies that that pony loves will taste an amazing fruit. However, people that pony dislikes will taste something bitter. We're fortunate that Big Macintosh is such a stallion of the ponies. I don't think there's one pony he's ever met that he doesn't like." Luna smiled and nodded at her. "Yes, he is something of a gentle giant, isn't he?" After a moment it finally clicked in Luna's head. Macintosh's truest feelings were grown into the fruits. That's how she would gauge how he felt about her. It was perfect! "Alright, Princess, I need to hit the hay. I don't know how you night ponies stay up this late. Thank you for allowing me to see the trees." "The pleasure was all mine, Twilight Sparkle. Thank you for the information." They parted ways and Luna flew to the hospital to visit Macintosh. He was out of danger but he still hasn't woken up yet. Luna had made the internal promise to spend as much time with him as she could. Just in case he tried to slip away from them all without knowing how she felt. The nurses nodded her in and she sat silently by his bedside, holding his hoof in both of hers, and worried. She didn't know what else to do. Magic was unable to help him now. Often times, it felt like magic's uses were unlimited, but it did have it's limits. It was easy for a magical spell to mend a twisted ankle or a small cut but that was where it stopped. Superficial wounds were all it helped. Something like a concussion combined with blood loss was beyond the scope of any magically inclined pony's ability. So Luna simply say and did what she could to make him comfortable and held his hoof. For a moment, it the beginning she thought someone might start a rumor or might find it uncouth but she decided quickly she didn't care what anyone else thought. She was genuinely worried for the stallion in front of her and wanted nothing more than for him to improve, so that they might share the fruits of their endeavors together. "Fruits of our endeavors. How literal that statement is." Luna giggled softly to herself. "What's funny, sister?" Celestia entered the room quietly, speaking softly. Luna turned to her and quickly released Macintosh's hoof. "Nothing. My mind was wandering. What are you doing here?" "No need to release him, sister. I couldn't sleep. I thought I'd check on Big Macintosh but I can see he is in very capable hooves." Luna wrapped her hoof around Macintosh's again. "I simply wish we could do more for him," she said, sadly. "Magic can do many things, sister. But sometimes you have to rely on the strength of the affected pony to pull them back to life." She paused to let her words sink in. "Now tell me, have you ever met a stronger pony in all of your long life?" Luna smiled meekly as a tear rolled down her cheek and she shook her head at Celestia. "No, sister. No, I have not." Celestia embraced her sister tightly, allowing her to cry more freely. Luna's hoof remained tight to Macintosh's but with her free hoof she held her sister close. As they separated, Celestia spoke again. "Have you told him how you feel yet?" Luna shook her head. "Why not?" "Because I want to tell him. I want him to be here to respond to me. I am afraid of his reaction but I feel that if I tell him in his current state it would be like saying farewell. I do not want to say farewell to him." Celestia wiped away a fresh tear on Luna's face. "I cannot argue with that. Be strong, sister. Big Macintosh will return to us all. I have faith in his strength and his will to survive. He will not go from a bump on the head." Luna smiled and again embraced her sister tightly. "Thank you." Luna broke the embrace and took a deep, calming breath. "I will be strong. For him." "I'll leave you be. Good night, Luna." "Good night, sister." Luna was glad to be alone with Macintosh again. Not that she didn't value Celestia's wisdom and kind words but she simply wanted to sit and wait on Macintosh to awaken. She laid her head down on his bed and closed her eyes, thinking of all the things she had to tell him. Truly, she was scared, but she knew where his answer laid if he didn't awaken soon. Luna awoke with a start hours later. A nurse had gently shaken her from her slumber. The nurse politely informed her that it was the time she had asked them to retrieve her. It was time for her to set the moon. She was sure Celestia would do it for her, had she asked, but Luna felt it best to stay in routines and this was an important one. She left Macintosh's room slowly. She didn't want to leave him alone but the nurses assured her that someone from the Apple family would be in soon. She relented and left the hospital, soaring up into the already brightening sky. She relished the cool dawn air, and let it clear her mind as she settled the moon, before returning to the castle. Much as she wished to return to Macintosh, she knew he would be in good hooves throughout the day. After an hour of tossing and turning, she drifted into an uneasy and troubled sleep, filled with dreams that she would be hard pressed to forget come the next evening.
Chapter 7As Luna arrived at the garden she was well aware she was later than usual. She was anxious. She didn't want her feelings to make things awkward and thought maybe Macintosh would be gone by the time she got there. He wasn't. Big Mac meandered around the garden. Inspecting each of the trees and noting things of interest. Several had small apples already growing on them and he was excited for that. It took him a moment to notice Princess Luna standing by the fence and watching him work. He gave her a wave and a smile and he finished the last of his inspection. Luna melted at the smile and felt herself smile dumbly back before she shook her head. Come on, Luna. He hasn't even said hello yet. Don't melt that easy. She remained leaning on the fence until Macintosh approached her. "The trees are looking good. Most even have a few tiny apples growing on them. I'd say by the end of the week they should be good and ripe." Big Mac smiled excitedly. "Excellent! I apologize for being late. I was finishing my final preparations for this shroud spell." And now you're lying to him to cover yourself. That's a healthy foundation for any relationship. "That's alright. Not much left to do anymore but watch the apples grow, anyway. Is the spell a hard one?" "A bit," No, it's not, "It will take a bit of focus to cast." "Well, you go ahead and do what you have to." He moved outside the gate and a bit farther away, "I'll just wait over here til you're done." Luna nodded at him. She secretly wished he had tripped into her like he did on other nights. As he exited the gate, she entered and stood in the center of the garden. "Try to be mindful of where the fence is, this will be barely enough to overlap it." She closed her eyes and charged her horn, channeling the spell. Big Mac watched as what looked like a dense fog appeared all around the fence he had built. The glow from the trees was gone and it looked as natural as anything. As Luna closed the fog around the garden, she opened her eyes and watched Macintosh fade. She finished the spell and slowly made her way to the fencing. Unfortunately, she had made the fog a bit thicker than intended and rolled her ankle in a small hole in the ground. "Ow!" She cried out as she limped over to the fence and leaned against it. The cry of pain made Big Mac's heart skip a beat. He couldn't see her and she was now in pain. He rushed toward the fog in a full sprint, intent on saving her. However, he ignored her advice on remembering where the fence was and ran headlong into it and her. Big Mac crashed through the fence and fell on top of Luna as they tumbled to the ground. Their head banged off of each other as they landed, causing a cut in Big Mac's forehead. As they lay on the ground for a moment in pain, Luna was the first to realize what had happened, and that the stallion she pined for was now laying on top of her. Not exactly for the reason she had ever hoped but right now she wasn't picky. As Big Mac's head cleared he realized he was on top of Luna and he scrambled to get off of her but as he set his hooves on he ground to stand up, his right foreleg gave out and he merely rolled off to Luna's left. Luna was immediately sad at his absence but there was a more pressing matter to attend to. She righted herself, staying gingerly placing weight on her foot and bent down next to him. "Macintosh, are you alright?" "I'm fine, Princess.". Big Mac made a move to stand up and collapsed again. "I do not believe being unable to stand is fine. Which leg is hurt?" Luna's voice was full of concern. Not simply because she liked him, but because she had never seem him look weak. Big Mac held out the injured leg and Luna bowed her head and charged a spell. As she went to cast it, there was a fizzling sound. She tried a second time with similar results. "Hmm. It seems the blow to my head has shorted out my magic. Do you have first aid in your home?" Big Mac sat up on the ground, his mind raced with what the family would say when he brought an injured princess into their home. "I do but we can't go there." "Why can we not? You have medical supplies and that is the closest place." Luna thought him odd, even in her raised state of concern. Big Mac thought up the quickest reason he could, which was also the worst. "Well, I can't walk, so I'll just sit her til it feels better." Luna rolled her eyes and ducked her head under his right foreleg. "We will not wait in the darkness. Now walk with me," she said in a slightly more commanding voice. Big Mac feared the wrath of his family but what other options did they have? They limped along together, slowly making their way to the farmhouse. About halfway to their destination each realized this was the closest they had ever been. They both shot the other a worried glance and were thankful for the darkness to hide the blush they shared. As they entered the farmhouse Luna sat Big Mac at the nearby table. "Where is your aid kit?" Her voice was low. "Up the stairs behind you. Third door on the right. Under the sink." Big Mac spoke as softly as he could through pants, the walk had been exhausting for the both of them. Princess Luna moved noiselessly through the house. As she crested the stairs and continued down the hallway, she counted the doors. Two on the left, both closed. The first on the right was closed, as well. The second on the right was open and she stepped inside for a moment. She spotted a small notebook on a table and flipped it open, silently. Reading through the notes she recognized it as everything he had recorded about the usiku trees. Macintosh was keeping similar notes to her own and they included a bit more detail than what hers did. She closed the book and replaced it on the table before moving out of the room and to the next door on her right. She froze as the door opened as she approached it. Apple Bloom walked groggily into the hallway and bumped into Luna's legs. She looked up and smiled. "I always wanted another big sister," she said, sleepily. Before Luna could think to respond Apple Bloom walked around her and back to what must have been her room. She felt a weight lift off of her and let out the breath she had been holding. She moved swiftly into the bathroom and retrieved the medical kit before making her way downstairs again. Big Mac sat at the table, leaning over and staring at the ground. As Luna sat down next to him she noticed a small dark pool below Macintosh's body. She leaned in and looked at it as another drop fell into the puddle. She followed the drop and realized that Macintosh was bleeding and had apparently passed out. She swore to herself and gently used her hoof to lift his chin. Leaning in closely to inspect him for cuts she wished that it wasn't dark and that he didn't have a red coat. She felt a droplet of blood reach her hoof and she redoubled her efforts, leaning in mere inches away from Big Mac's face to find the cut. As she found it, she flipped open the medical kit with her magic and readied a small rag with some ointment. She held the rag up and hesitated, speaking to him softly, "This may sting a bit." She pressed the rag to his forehead and his eyes shot open and be made a rather loud moaning sound. Luna shushed him and told him he was alright. "It'll stop in a moment. Just bear with me." They stayed like that for a minute. Luna leaned in close to Big Mac's forehead as she removed the rag and blew on the cut gently. Big Mac shut his eyes and fell silent again. She noticed his weight on her had increased considerably. She swore again and tried another spell. Still it fizzled. Luna tipped Big Mac's head up to make sure the bleeding had stopped before she leaned him on the table once again. She made her way back upstairs and entered the first room on the right. The placard on the door labeled it as Applejack's. Luna was unsure how to go through the motions of waking up someone in their own home so she shook Applejack gently and called her name in the same tone Celestia sometimes used to wake Luna up. It took a minute but Applejack sat up quickly and looked at Luna. "Princess Luna? What're you doing here? Am I dreaming?" "I assure you this is not a dream, Applejack. I need your assistance. There was an accident and Macintosh is hurt. We need to get him to the hospital." Luna spoke softly but sternly. She wanted Applejack to believe her and not ask many questions. Much to Luna's pleasure, Applejack only asked where Big Mac was before she was on the move with the princess. Together they loaded him into a cart to transport him to the hospital. Applejack had a moment of pause when Luna strapped in to pull beside her but Princess Luna assured her that just because she was a princess, didn't mean she couldn't do work. Together they arrived at the hospital where the staff did most of the work carrying Big Mac inside and to his room. As they waited in the waiting room together Applejack asked the obvious question, "Princess, how did you know Big Mac was hurt?" Princess Luna took the time to explain everything about the usiku trees and how she and Macintosh had become friends and bonded over them. She apologized for keeping the secret but Macintosh had told her it would be a great surprise for the Apple family. Applejack listened and nodded along, glad to know the real reason Big Mac had been acting strange. "Well, we certainly owe you for helping Big Mac out, Princess. I don't know how we could ever thank you." "As soon as we know Macintosh is okay, that will be all the thanks I need." Luna smiled at Applejack, who returned it in kind. But as the doctor entered the waiting room and looked at both of them, their smiles faded. Big Mac had a serious concussion and was lucky that he hadn't slipped into a coma when he passed out. He told them that Big Mac would be alright but he would probably be asleep for a day or two as a result of the medications they had him on. They nodded their understanding and asked if they could see him. The doctor advised only family, but he figured the nurses would make an exception for a princess. Together they went to Big Mac's room and stood over him. Applejack held back her tears as she held her big brother's hoof. From the opposite side of the bed, Luna squeezed his other hoof gently. "I'll make sure the trees are cared for, Macintosh. By the time you're feeling better we'll have their apples to enjoy together." Luna looked outside and noticed the sun was already coming up. She excused herself to Applejack, as she did have duties to attend to, but as she flew outside she noticed the moon was not in the sky. She flew to the castle and waited for her sister to return from setting the sun on it's path for the day and asked her why she had done that. "Because you had more pressing matters to attend to, dear sister. Saving the life of a beloved friend is far more important than having the moon in the sky. So I set it for you so you wouldn't have to worry." Luna didn't usually get emotional but she hugged Celestia in that moment. Thanking her for all she had done for her in their long lives. As she broke her embraced, she asked Celestia, "How did you know about Macintosh?" "I've been around a long time, Luna. I see lots of things that no one thinks I do." Luna smiled at her ever puzzling sister and let the question go. It wasn't important anyway. "You were right, by the way, sister." "About what?" "I do have feelings for him." Luna spoke sheepishly. "Well, now that you know it, maybe you should tell him." Celestia gave her a coy smile. "I do not think it would go so well." The negativity did not suit Luna. Celestia repeated what she had said to herself from only the day before, "Be careful, dear sister. Deny your feelings too long and the one you hold them for will be gone before you've had time to enjoy their company. I think that's especially true for you right now. We're all lucky Big Macintosh is still with us. Don't let how he might react sway you. Because you never know, he might just share your feelings." She winked this time. Luna nodded and accepted her sister's logic. She retired to her bedroom to get some rest and as she lay on her bed, her mind stayed with Macintosh. "He might just share your feelings." Luna's mind replayed the wink. That curious Celestia wink. Is it possible?
Chapter 9The next two days passed without incident. Luna still took meticulous care of the usiku trees and sat at Big Mac's side for every moment she could. When she awoke on the third night she did so with a measure of excitement. She had spoken to Applejack about the night apples and was told that they would be ripe for the picking tonight. She flew to the garden, faster than she had ever flown before, after she had raised the moon for the night. Landing with a rather audible thud, she rushed through the fog, mindful of the fence. As she entered through the gate, she spotted the glowing trunks and looked for the fruits that had begun to glow in a similar fashion the day before. But as she neared the trees her heart sank. The apples were gone. All of them. She ran from tree to tree, her heart breaking a little more with each one she passed. She finally flopped to the ground, leaning back against a fence post she held her tears at bay. She wondered if they'd had a perfect moment and only lasted so long after they reached that peak. She stared blankly at the trees unsure of what to do. "Princess Luna?" The voice belonged to Twilight Sparkle. Luna rose slowly, wiping her eyes. "I'm here, Twilight Sparkle." Twilight burst through the fog and gate panting heavily. "There you are!" Luna nodded slowly. "Yes, here I am. But Twilight, the apples," she turned and motioned to the trees behind her, "they're all gone." "No, they're not, Princess. Applejack harvested them all at sunset and brought them over to the hospital." Luna's heart jumped into her throat. "The hospital? Does that mean...?" Twilight barely had a moment to nod before Luna teleported the both of them right in front of the hospital and Luna rushed inside. She stopped short just outside Macintosh's room. Reminding herself that he was still unaware of her feelings. She entered slowly and was greeted with smiles from the entire Apple family. Even the one laying in the bed. Luna nearly broke down and rushed to him when she saw him sitting up, but she maintained her composure and smiled sweetly at all of them. Celestia was also present, as were the rest of the Elements of Harmony. The hospital room was much too small for all of them but no one complained. Luna approached the bed. "Glad to see you're finally back with us, Macintosh. And I see our apples are looking very delicious," she said, indicating the small bushel of glowing apples next to Applejack. "Have you all tried one yet?" Applejack shook her head. "Big Mac wouldn't let us, Princess. Said he wanted you to be here." "Well, it just don't seem right to eat without you when you helped to raise them just as much as I did." Big Mac spoke softly. He was still a bit drowsy. "Then let us all enjoy them now." Luna tossed one to Celestia while Applejack and Apple Bloom handed out the rest. When everyone had one, they all looked at each other, wondering who would be the first to try it. Being ever the brave and adventurous pony she was, Rainbow Dash took the first bite. As she chewed slowly her eyes went wide and she spoke around the apple. "This is the best thing I have ever tasted!" With such a glowing review, everyone else took a bite. The yummy sounds that filled the room made Big Mac chuckle. "What's funny, Big Mac?" Applejack asked. "The apples taste better based on how much I like you. In a room full of ponies I love, I expected this kind of reaction." He chuckled again and everyone else joined him. Each of the Elements of Harmony gave him their best wishes before they left and the Apple Family left soon as well, they did, after all, have to rise early in the morning. Only Celestia and Luna lingered. "Well, of all the ponies I ever expected to see in this room, I certainly didn't expect the rulers of Equestria." Celestia chuckled. "Yes, well, you have touched a great many lives, Big Macintosh. If the hospital had the room I expect there would be many more ponies here." "We don't have nearly enough apples for all of them, Princess." They shared another laugh before Celestia wished him a speedy recovery and retired for the evening. She gave Luna a look as she left. Finally alone, Big Mac smiled at the Luna, but his smile faded when he realized she hadn't eaten her apple yet. "Why haven't you tried your apple, Princess? Don't you want to know how it tastes?" Luna inspected the apple before setting it down gently on the table beside the bed as she sat down next to Macintosh. "I would very much like to know how it tastes. But I am afraid of how it will taste as well." "Why's that, Princess? You don't think I don't like you, do you?" His voice sounded worried. Like he'd never really encountered someone he didn't like. "Of course not, Macintosh. You are truly the kindest stallion I've ever met. I am simply afraid that.." She paused, gathering her courage a bit, "I am afraid it will not taste as good as the other ponies described." Big Mac felt his heart sink a little that she would think he didn't like her as much as the other, but her fear of that was curious. "I assure you, Princess. It will taste just as good as, if not better than, how the others described." Luna glanced at the apple. She wanted to taste it. To be sure of his feelings before she confessed her own but her heart told her that was not the way. It wasn't the way life worked. You weren't allowed an insight into another pony's soul unless they offered it to you freely and of themselves. She accepted that sometimes in life things did not go your way. Ponies didn't always feel the same. Some love was meant to be unrequited. That was the risk anyone took in bearing their soul. A high risk situation in which the reward could be nearly anything. She looked up at him, and his puzzled look, and she took a deep breath as she reached up, wrapping her hooves around his hoof. She stared him in the eye and took another deep breath but as she opened her mouth Big Mac squeezed her hoof. Tightly. Tightly enough that her words caught and she just stared at him as his smile widened. "Please, try the apple, Princess." She removed one of her hooves from clasping his and gently picked up the apple. She took a very ladylike bite and Big Mac watched her intently as she stared at the apple, then at him, then back to the apple. She chewed slowly and swallowed, staring at him dumbfounded. "Well, how did it taste?" He asked. Suddenly, she lunged forward and embraced him tightly. He sat in shock for a moment, before returning the embrace. Luna pulled back and looked at him, her forelegs still on his shoulders. "Does that mean it was good?" He joked. Luna just smiled at him and nodded. "I do not know what to say, Macintosh. I have never dreamed of a moment like this. I am not usually such an emotional pony." Big Mac shrugged. "And I never dreamed I would fall I love with a princess." His simple statements made her smile every time. She leaned forward and kissed him gently. He was all too eager to reciprocate. As they parted, they simply smiled at each other. There was nothing left to say. They sat holding their hooves together and feeling like school ponies with their first crush. After a time Luna asked something she had been pondering, "Macintosh, would you be willing to grow usiku trees for us all every year?" "Eeyup. But you have to promise me something." "Anything." "Please call me Big Mac. I hate being called 'Macintosh.'" Luna giggled, thinking back to just how many times she had called him that. "Very well, Big Mac. But only if you will call me 'Luna' instead of 'Princess.'" "You've got yourself a deal." He winked at her. ----- Big Mac and Luna enjoyed a long and happy life together. Every year the crop of usiku trees grew and grew until they were forced to hire extra ponies to help care for the trees. Big Mac always planted all the seeds himself and always gave the first apple off the trees to Luna. Big Mac lived longer than most stallions due to his amazing work ethic, and having a goddess to come home to didn't hurt his drive to want to stay alive, either. But, as is the case with all mortals, Big Mac did die one day. Luna had been devastated, just as Celestia had warned. "Lulu?" Celestia entered Luna bedroom slowly and quietly. She had been raising and setting both sun and moon for nearly a month. Luna lay on her bed staring at the ceiling, dried tears staining her face. "Why did he have to die? We are the most powerful of all the ponies in the world and yet we cannot keep them alive no matter how much we want to." "Lulu, you knew this day would come. You enjoyed many years with Big Macintosh. More than most get. Your love for one another never faded. All those years ago, I cautioned you against your feelings, and even I am glad you ignored me. Big Macintosh brought more sunshine into our lives than even the sun could, and for that we will forever miss him. "But lying in this room, killing yourself over his death does his memory no justice, sister. You must have the strength to press forward. You must take all of that sunshine that he gave to you, all that happiness he blessed you with, and find a way to give it back to the world. Find a way to make his memory, and the mark he left on you, a part of other ponies. "I know the prospect of a life without him scares you, Luna. But you are strong. As strong as Big Macintosh himself. He made you that way. Do not let his absence control your life. There are many of us here to support you, Lulu." Luna closed her eyes on her bed, biting back another wave of tears. She was so tired of crying. "Thank you, sister." She sniffled. "I will raise the moon tomorrow night. But for now I have something to do." Celestia nodded and left Luna alone. Luna rose slowly. Sniffling again, she made her way out to the small garden she had been keeping since Big Mac had moved into the castle with her. As she wound her way past all the flowers and crops she kept, she came to the very edge of the garden, that had an overlook down to Ponyville. In front of the railing sat Big Mac's gravestone. After a request from Luna, the Apple family had been more than happy to allow him buried there. As she stared at his name on the stone she charged her horn and added an engraving below his name. Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.
Just a Little Fun**This particular chapter has nothing to do with the romance story of Luna and Mac. It's just a humorous idea I had while writing this. ~ Thanks for reading, everyone. Not long after Luna and Mac had revealed their feelings Big Mac made a special trip to Canterlot with a very inquisitive fashionista in tow. Big Mac answered only a few of her questions, mostly to ensure that she would have a good time and that she would be back in a timely manner. Rarity thought it odd, given his new relationship with Princess Luna but she eventually resigned herself to simply enjoying the trip with a good friend. When they had finally arrived Big Mac led her to a small restaurant where they sat and ate a fine meal. As the finished, Rarity daintily wiped her mouth and spoke. "Big Mac, I do appreciate you treating me to such a nice day trip but why exactly did you bring us here today?" Big Mac said nothing but pointed to a group of ponies sitting at a table not far from the two of them. Rarity quickly noted one of the ponies at the table, and the one Big Mac seemed to be indicating, was Prince Blueblood. "Him? What about him? Besides being," she paused searching for more polite words than swears, "besides being a jerk, what about him?" Big Mac smiled at her and spoke softly. "Just watch, Miss Rarity." Rarity again glanced at the table and noticed a familiar looking waiter bringing a small glowing apple sliced into several pieces toward their table. "Compliments of the house, folks." Rarity gasped. "Big Macintosh, you're going to give one of your delicious apples to that horrid stallion? Why would you.. ?" Big Mac reached out and gently touched her shoulder. "Miss Rarity. Just watch." Rarity turned her attention again to the table. Everyone seemed delighted by this new surprise fruit they were being treated to. Each sang the praises of how delicious it was. When Blueblood took a big bite of his slice he immediately spat it out and began trying to find something to take the taste out of his mouth. "Oh my! That is the most horrid thing I've ever tasted in my entire life! Waiter! Why would you bring us such a disgusting dessert!?" A different waiter rushed to the table and questioned them on what happened. Blueblood explained that another waiter had brought them a free dessert and that it had been horrid, though the other ponies at the table didn't exactly share Blueblood's disgust. The waiter calmly explained that the restaurant also never gave complimentary food, as a policy. Which brought a tirade from Blueblood but several of his stallion friends spoke up and began to give Blueblood a hard time about pestering the waiter just because he had gotten the bad part of the apple. Blueblood quickly became flustered and stormed out of the restaurant followed by chuckles from the ponies at his table. Rarity looked at Big Macintosh. "But why did he..?" "Not like it when I like every pony? A little secret between you and me, Miss Rarity. I don't much care for him, either." Rarity giggled herself silly. "Oh, Big Macintosh that was fantastic. The best dessert I've ever had, you could say. Just one question, who brought them the apple in the first place?" Big Mac pointed at the pegasus walking out of the bathrooms, Rarity recognized him as Soarin' of the Wonderbolts. Big Mac gave him a slight wave and Soarin' gave a smile and a nod as he proceeded to a small table with a rather large slice if pie waiting on a plate. Big Mac leaned in close to Rarity. "Let's just say he's a huge fan of Granny Smith's zap apple pie." Rarity again lost herself in a fit of laughter as they both rose and exited the restaurant. "Thank you, Big Mac, for this lovely day." "No. Thank you, Miss Rarity. For your kind words the other week. You really gave me the push I needed." Rarity smiled at him. "We'll call it even then." They shared another laugh as they boarded the train bound for Ponyville.
