The Trotstead Decree

Chapters

Chapter I
Chapter II
Chapter III
Prologue

Chapter I

Applejack forcibly kicked the trunk of a large apple tree. The apples plummeted into the baskets around the tree’s base. She wiped the sweat from her brow and sighed. A grey curtain of cloud shielded Celestia’s sun from Apple family’s orchard.
Celestia, the name had become less welcome at Sweet Apple Acres since the beginning of the prohibition. The announcement of the decree was met with mixed reactions from AJ’s friends. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie were nearly outraged at the banning of a beverage that had become the basis of a near traditional, but still mostly friendly, rivalry between them.
Fluttershy squeaked her opinion, which went mostly unnoticed due to Dash’s and Pinkie’s ranting. Rarity had debated the right of the government to interfere in the personal lives of ponies in such a way. Once all had settled down Twilight had tried to justify the Princess’ action. Applejack recalled the conversation.
“She can’t take away our cider!” Rainbow Dash yelled.
“Well, technically she can Rainbow Dash,” Rarity said. “ and she has. Now the question is whether she should have.”
“It’s an abuse of authority!”
“When did you become such an expert on politics Rainbow?” Twilight had asked, sarcastically.
“Since it became important!”
That was just like Rainbow Dash, try to talk about taxes or foreign affairs with her and they’d be declared ‘Boring’, but as soon as her cider was threatened, well, politics were labeled as important and she got involved. She had even helped Filthy Rich found the anti-temperance society of Ponyville, though that wasn’t her first choice for the name, but Rich didn’t feel ‘Rainbow Dash’s awesome campaign to stop evil temperance ponies from stealing our cider!’ could be taken seriously.
“Besides,” Rarity countered. “It’s not as if she’s going against the will of the populace, there are plenty of ponies out there for temperance. And they are just as adamant about as you Rainbow.”
“Who cares?! Why do they care? They don’t like it, they don’t have to drink it!”
“But that’s not their point!” Twilight had said. “You see there point is,” after that she proceeded to start a long monologue on the perceived societal effects of cider, and why temperance societies wanted it banned. When she had finished with that she started another monologue on the history of alcoholic cider.
“Okay we get it!”
“Who do they think they are anyway? Trying to tell us all what to do!” Pinkie cried out while hopping. “Those big, bullying, bossy, boots, ponies can’t do this!”
“We already established they can, it’s happened,” Rarity said.
“They can’t stop us, from having our cider!”
“Pinkie for the last time…” Twilight countered.
“Just watch me!” With that she jumped and almost flew out of the room.
“She’s going to be trouble Twilight,” Rarity said. “Mark my words.” She gracefully left the library.
Twilight looked around the library, she saw Fluttershy had left, “Where’d she go?”
Rainbow Dash spoke, “She left while you were talking, said something about bunnies.” She hoofed at the ground, “Listen Twi I’m sorry for getting out of hand. But things are changing, and it’s not making anything better.”
“I think it’s still too early to tell the effects…”
“Trust me,” Rainbow said, “Ponies want their cider. One way or the other.”
She flew out the door. All that were left was Twilight and Applejack. AJ had remained silent throughout the discussion. Twilight looked at her, “What do you think? The decree has the biggest impact on you and your family by far.”
AJ was uncomfortable with the question, and afraid to express her true feelings. “Well Twilight, cider sales are important to us.”
“But only hard cider’s been outlawed. You still make and sell the non-alcoholic kind.”
“That is our plan but we’re afraid our customers probably won’t like that as much.”
“Do they have any alternative?” Twilight asked.
Applejack hoofed the ground, “Not that I can see.”
“Well then you don’t have anything to worry about!” Twilight said, trying to sound optimistic. “And don’t I’m sure the Princess will sort this out soon. She’s promised to make sure the prohibition will not cause any farms are ran out of business She won’t rest until everypony’s satisfied.”
“I’m sure she won’t Twi. You’re right, we’ll be fine in the end. And besides, cider season’s a while off. We’ll have plenty of time to make sure we’ll get through.”
With that she left the library. Despite her outward optimism Applejack was afraid, she knew her family couldn’t make it through the winter without cider sales. And while Twilight was confident ponies there’d be no supply of hard cider this season, AJ knew there would be cider-makers out there that didn’t care about the law. And ponies would still buy hard cider, it still wasn’t illegal to buy and consume it.
Thunder had rolled overhead, when Applejack returned to Sweet Apple Acres that day. A storm was coming.

Applejack stood in the barn with Big Macintosh and Granny Smith. Applebloom was asleep in the farmhouse. The three of them had met to discuss their plans for dealing with the prohibition. Applejack had related the conversation in Twilight’s library to them, including her optimism about the situation.
“So what are we going to do about this?” Applejack said.
Granny Smith spoke first, “We ain’t going to be able make it through winter without cider sales!”
“Eeyup,” Big Macintosh said.
“We never have sold only the hard stuff. And now especially ponies are going to be getting their hooves on whatever cider they can even if it isn’t their first choice,” Applejack said weakly.
“Despite what your friends say, you and I both know that the law won’t stop cider being made,” Granny Smith said dourly. “And it won’t stop ponies from drinking it!”
AJ nodded and looked down at the floor, “Then what are we going to do?”
Granny Smith lightened, “We just have to remain hopeful. We can pull through this if we remain hopeful!” Applejack and Big Mac smiled at this.
“Your right Granny! We’ll find a way through this.”
Eeyup.”
“We always do,” AJ said.

Cider season began tomorrow. The Apple Family was ready, the first cider of the season was pressed. They had sadly foregone their processes to ferment it. Twilight was surprised when she heard about the Apple’s quick fermentation processes. During her first cider season in Ponyville Twilight had expressed surprise it fermented so quickly. AJ had tried to explain it as old Apple family secrets, but Twilight just concluded it must have been the manifestation of some inherent Earth Pony magic. Applejack simply shook her head
Not that it mattered now, fermentation would be a memory as long as the Trotstead decree was still in place.
Applejack looked over at their cider stand. Every year ponies would line up for miles for a mug of Apple Family cider. There had always been rave reviews and then frustration from those who couldn’t get any due to limited supply. She hoped it would still be like that tomorrow. She was sure it would be.

Morning had come, ponies were lined up .The Apples manned the stand, a large stack of cider barrels were behind them. Their starting supply was larger than last year’s same as always after they worked to improve supply. Applejack looked down the road at the line of ponies. She could see the end of it, last year they were lined up so far they crested the hill just outside Ponyville.
A megaphone was perched on a stand to amplify the announcement the opening of cider season. Applejack stepped up to it and mustered all the enthusiasm she could, “Attention everypony! Cider season is now open!”
Despite the circumstances this triggered a surge of excitement in the crowd. They quickly approached and deposited their bits in the money chest in exchange for a mug or two of cider. The occasional pony would even approach with a sackful of bits and dump it into the Apples’ money chest then walk off with more mugs then they could manage.
Applejack kept a look out for any of her friends. Rarity was currently busy on a large dress order, and Twilight was away on business in Canterlot. But Pinkie Pie was usually at the front of the line, Rainbow Dash consistently found herself just far enough back in the line to miss out on the last cup of cider by one pony, there was no telling where Fluttershy was currently.
A half hour or so passed. Applejack saw a bouncing pink pony down the line. She came to the front of the line, and dropped two bits into the money chest.
Applebloom greeted her as she poured her a mug of cider, “Howdy Pinkie Pie.”
“Hiya Applebloom!” Pinkie said with a large smile, “How are you guys doing?”
“We’re doing alright,” Applebloom said, handing Pinkie the cup. “Just one today, you usually get at least a dozen!”
“Yeah just one today,” she said. Applebloom handed it to her and she downed it. Pinkie hopped her way over to Applejack, “That was pretty yummy, AJ!”
“Much obliged Pinkie,” Applejack said
“It doesn’t have quite the same pop to it as last year’s though,” Pinkie said.
“Well sugarcube it is different,” she said.
“I know it’s not hard cider, why do they call it that anyway? It wasn’t hard it was a liquid. Was it frozen before? Then it’d be hard, I suppose it would feel hard if you fell into from high. Did a pegasus fall into at some time, and then call it hard cider?”
“Umm, Pinkie, I’ve got a lot to do right now, and I’d appreciate it if,” Applejack said.
“Oh! Of course, sorry if I was distracting you,” she hopped off humming a chaotic tune to herself.
Applejack called after her, “Thanks again for coming down.” A few minutes passed when she saw Rainbow Dash in line. Applejack waited for her to buy her cider and drink it. Rainbow Dash flew over to her, and landed in front of her.
“Hey girl,” she greeted.
Applejack smiled, “Hey RD.”
Rainbow Dash cleared her throat, “You’re losing your touch, I actually got cider the first day of cider season.” They both chuckled.
“Well with the prohibition on I think ponies are hesitant to come out to even drink the legal cider,” Applejack said.
“Maybe,” Rainbow Dash said.
Applejack scowled inquisitively, “What do you mean?”
“Well it’s just…” she began.
“What Rainbow?”
“Just I overheard some ponies talking about a place where they were still making and selling hard cider.”
“But that’s not legal anymore!” Applejack said.
Rainbow Dash looked her in the eyes, “I told you ponies would still find a way to get their cider AJ. And Pinkie said she was going to go check out one these places.”
Applejack eyes widened, “I don’t want her involved in any this! We gotta talk to her!”
“Well…” Rainbow Dash averted her gaze.
“You’re going too?”
“I was thinking about it.” Applejack glared at her friend. “It’s not illegal to drink the stuff!” Rainbow Dash said.
“But you’re still getting involved with bad ponies! It ain’t right!”
“What’s not right is the Princess trying to dictate our lives.” Rainbow Dash stomped a forehoof on the ground for emphasis. “You should come with us.”
“No!” Applejack said.
“You’re going to need some way to keep yourself in business.”
“We have plenty of business here!” Applejack said.
“There’s already less than any cider season here. And there’ll be even less once word gets out that there’s still hard cider out there!” Rainbow Dash said.
“Rainbow I am not getting involved in any of this and you shouldn’t either!”
Rainbow Dash sighed, “If that’s how you feel about it. I hope you can pull through this. And if you need any help just call I’ll be there with the rest of the gang.”
“Well thank you Rainbow,” Applejack said.
“And if you change your mind about the cider call me then too, just be sure to speakeasy.” Rainbow Dash flew off.

Chapter II

One Month Later

Another day dawned on Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack got out of her bed in the early morning. She donned her usual cowpony hat and went downstairs to eat and wash up before going out and tending the cider stall. There was almost no point now. Fewer ponies came every day, yesterday only a couple dozen came over the course of the day. Applejack was determined though, she had to stay hopeful.
There was never any consideration of accepting Celestia’s rumored help for apple farms. Apple family pride dictated that much. They were hesitant to accept charity from their friends and neighbors, much less the monarch responsible for their plight in the first place.
She ate some apples, AJ reflected on the fact they wouldn’t starve if money ran out, at least for as long as they still had the farm. She looked at herself in the mirror. “Come on girl, we’ll get through this.” She forced a smile onto her face. “We always do, and we always will. The Apple family has always lived on. Through every drought, every famine, every attack of insects, every competitor, every single challenge, the Apples have seen it through. And even if the worst should happen we’ll still have each other and our friends.” Applejack blinked back tears and took a deep breath, “But that won’t happen, we’ll find a way.” She smiled again, this time it was genuine. She left the farmhouse in relatively high spirits.
A few months ago Applejack never would have believed she would need to give herself a pep talk every morning to give her the strength carry on. But every day the situation grew more hopeless. Already farms around Equestria which depended on cider sales were being foreclosed on. So far the Apples had survived through determination, customer loyalty, and what little they still had in savings after numerous barn repairs.
She trudged down to the cider stall. The early morning sun feebly tried to peek through the dark grey cloud cover. She looked down the road. There was no line of eager ponies clamoring to get a taste of Apple family cider, there hadn’t been one for more than two weeks. They had stopped pressing new cider and now it just sat in their cellars collecting dust.
She sat down and waited for customers. A half hour passed, then an hour. She waited still. Applejack poured a mug of cider and drink it. Pinkie was right it didn’t quite have the same pop. After another few minutes she gave up on waiting and decided to practice with her lasso, while waiting for customers. She roped a few barrels and wooden dummies the few loyal customers left came by at their leisure, but they made sure to come by every day. Applejack was extremely grateful for them.
She heard someone at the stall clear their throat. She looked over, and smiled widely. Two ponies stood there, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.
“Hey AJ,” Rainbow Dash said. “Two please.”
“Thank y’all for coming out again,” she said, pouring the drinks. “I can’t tell you how thankful I am to all of you.”
“We can’t let our friend down,” Fluttershy said. She sipped her cider.
Rainbow Dash drink from her mug and smiled, “Good stuff. Anyone else come around?”
“Not yet,” Applejack said, “You’re my first customers of the day!”
“Well it’s good that your friends were the first to see,” Fluttershy said cheerfully. The prohibition meant little to her but she remained supportive of her friends. She had come every day with Rainbow Dash.
“It’s been a while since you’ve been off the farm hasn’t it?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Yeah,” Applejack said. “Ain’t been much time lately.”
Rainbow Dash hovered over the ground. “You should come with us and do something!”
“I can’t leave the stand.”
Rainbow Dash looked around, “Can’t Big Mac manage by himself for a few hours?”
Applejack looked at the ground, “He’s not here.”
“What did he leave, abandon you guys?” Rainbow Dash slammed to the ground. “I’ll find him for ya!”
“Hold on their sugarcube, he ain’t left us. He’s gone into town looking for work.”
“Oh sorry,” Rainbow Dash said. “I didn’t know.”
“It’s alright Rainbow,” Applejack said. “I know you didn’t mean anything by it.
“Are things really that bad Applejack?” Rainbow Dash asked.
Applejack sighed, “Well, cider sales are down. Granny Smith said they’re seventy-five percent down from last year, though I’ve never been much for the business side of things. But anyway,” Applejack paused a moment. “Last week when work here slowed down enough I could run the cider stand alone, Big Mac went into town to see if he could get any other work.”
“Has he found any?” Fluttershy asked.
“A little, he’s been doing some odd jobs around town, while trying to find something more permanent. So far he’s earned enough money to keep us going for a while longer.”
“Do you think it’ll be enough to get you through winter?”
Applejack thought, probably not, especially doing only odd jobs. Even a full time job wouldn’t be able to replace cider earnings, “Maybe, especially if we can get cider sales to pick up.”
Their conversation was interrupted by a couple trotting down the road. They were talking and noticed the cider stand. They trotted over and ordered two cups. Applejack served the drinks and thanked them. They continued down the road.
Fluttershy continued the conversation, “I hope he finds enough work.”
“Has Pinkie come by any?” Rainbow Dash asked.
Applejack nodded, “Yeah she comes around pretty regularly, about every other day or so.”
“She’s been frequenting the speakeasies in town,” Rainbow Dash said.
“Speakeasies?” Applejack said.
Rainbow brightened, “Yeah, I totally came with that, well me and a few other ponies, we just started telling everypony to speak easy about the hard cider.”
“You don’t say,” Applejack said.
“Yeah, I helped make a name!” Rainbow Dash said, beaming. She noticed the look Applejack made, “But not that it matters.”
“And you say Pinkie’s been going to them?”
Rainbow Dash nodded slowly, “Yeah, not regularly but about once a week.” Applejack looked at the ground. “Most of them are pretty alright, they’re mostly just bars that refuse to go out of business.”
Fluttershy spoke up, “Yeah they’re not bad. Most of the customers are just normal ponies.”
“You too Fluttershy?” Applejack asked.
Rainbow Dash chimed in, “We’ve all been with Pinkie at least once, she practically dragged us there.”
“All except Twilight,” Fluttershy said.
“Yeah, Pinkie doesn’t trust her to keep the secret from the Princess. Really AJ we’re not doing anything illegal!”
“I still don’t want my friends getting involved in any illicit activity!” Applejack said with a stomp. “How many times have you been Rainbow?”
“Only once with Pinkie,” she said. “I’m not going anywhere but here for cider.”
Applejack smiled warmly, “Thank you, both of you.”
“We’ve got to help our friends,” Fluttershy said.
“We all know you’d do the same for us,” Rainbow Dash said.
AJ’s smile widened, “Of course.” They group hugged each other.
“Well if you don’t mind we’ll be off,” Rainbow Dash said.
“Where you going?” Applejack asked.
“We’re headed back to town, probably just going to hang out,” Rainbow Dash said.
Fluttershy chimed in, “We wish you could come with us.”
“Could you get someone else to watch the stand for a few hours? You’ve been out here almost every single day since cider season started.”
“Someone’s got to watch the stand,” Applejack said.
Rainbow Dash spoke, “Can’t Applebloom do it for a couole hours?”
“I can’t ask Applebloom to stay out here all by herself,” Applejack said.
“I’m sure she could handle it for a little bit,” Fluttershy said.
“I’m sure she could but I’m not making her take my responsibilities.”
Rainbow Dash took to the air and hovered over the ground, “Alright if that’s how you feel AJ. We’ll see you later.”
“We’ll come by again soon Applejack,” Fluttershy said. “I hope business picks up.”
“So do I Fluttershy. Thank y’all for coming again.”
“It was our pleasure as always,” Fluttershy said. They flew off towards town. Applejack sat at the stand for another few minutes.
Winona came down to the stand. She had been frequently coming down and keeping AJ company during her long wait for customers. She grabbed a stick off the ground and threw it for Winona to fetch, she faithfully brought it back. AJ played fetch with Winona for an hour. Only one pony came to the stall during that time.
It was going to be lunch time soon. AJ wrapped up fetch and was beginning to trot up to the farmhouse when she saw Applebloom coming down with a basket.
“Granny Smith told me to bring you lunch,” she said, placing the basket on the ground.
“Thanks little sis,” Applejack said.
“Also Granny said she put some lunch in there for Big Mac, and she wants you to go into town and deliver it.”
“Who’ll look after the stand?”
“I can handle that for a little while. Especially since, you know, hardly anypony comes around anymore,” Applebloom said.
“Oh don’t talk like that” Applejack said. “Business will pick up soon, you’ll see.”
“But what if it doesn’t?”
Applejack smiled warmly at her sister, “It will, you just wait and see. Keep hoping and everything will be alright just like Granny said.”
“Alright sis, if you say so,” Applebloom said.
“That’s my girl,” Applejack said. “I’ll be back soon.” She picked the basket up and balanced it on her back. She made her way down the road towards Ponyville.
“Feel free to take your time!” Applebloom called after her sister.
Applejack trotted up the hill. She looked back at the farm and thought of just how much it meant to her. It was the only home she had ever known. It had sheltered and fed her family for generations, as well as provide their livelihood. She wouldn’t let her and Big Macintosh be the generation that lost their family’s farm, no matter how bad their situation was. She couldn’t let her family down.
She met a few other ponies on the road and exchanged hellos on her way. Finally she entered the edge of Ponyville. Big Mac had told AJ he was working on some renovations to Town Hall. On her way there she looked around town, visually the Prohibition hadn’t changed the town at all. But there was something different in the mood of the town. Applejack sensed undercurrents of discontentment from ponies. They were unhappy at their government. Cider season was of monumental importance in Ponyville. Everypony enjoyed it. On opening day nearly everypony in town would make their way to Sweet Apple Acres. Last year the Apple Family plus AJ’s friends had finally made enough cider for the whole town on a single day, and were confident they could do it again for opening day this year. That had been the plan.
“If only,” Applejack muttered.
And in addition to the discontentment AJ felt something darker, a wave of lawlessness. An illicit industry was rising to take the place of what the princess had outlawed. In just a couple of weeks it had already grown like a weed, becoming prevalent in Ponyville, who knows how large it would be in another month.
“Miss Apple,” said a businesslike voice
Speak of the devil.
“Mr. Rich,” Applejack said coldly. “How are you today?”
“Fair enough, have you reconsidered my offer?” Filthy Rich asked.
“I have not,” she said.
It had only been a day into cider season when he had come down to the farm with an offer. He knew the prohibition left a vacuum for cider production ponies wanted filled whether done legally or not. Ever the opportunist he was determined to fill it. Filthy Rich had come and offered the Apples a deal, go into business together. Needless to say Applejack had ardently refused his offer. He had come by twice more still just as determined. The second time Applejack was still just as determined to refuse his offer and the third time he came she threatened to let the dog out on him if he didn’t leave and stay gone.
“Are you sure?” he said. “I hear business down at Sweet Apple Acres is much slower than usual.”
“It is a little but we’re managing all the same,” Applejack said.
Filthy Rich cracked a greasy smile, “Is that so? Then may I ask why I saw Big Macintosh working at Town Hall yesterday?”
“He’s helping us manage,” AJ said with just a bit of sarcasm.
Mr. Rich took a step closer and lowered his voice, “Are you so desperate to stay lawful that you send your brother to work of the farm instead of defying a tyrant who has destroyed your family’s livelihood?”
“She hasn’t done…”
“Why do you defend her?” Filthy Rich said. “She doesn’t care about you. It is your right to support your family, your right to continue the business your family started generations ago. She wants to steal that right!”
“She hasn’t outlawed apples!”
“But she’s outlawed what you need to support yourselves through winter,” he said. “When governments enact laws that go against the wellbeing of its ponies, it is the duty of ponies to resist them.”
Applejack poked her forehoof into Filthy’s chest, “Don’t bring your fancy philosophy in this to muddy the issue. You’re just saying that to justify this! The law’s the law!”
“If you say so Miss Apple. But when you lose your farm remember it was your loyalty that lost it,” he trotted off.
Applejack was left thinking. She mulled over Filthy Rich’s words. He was just a slimy business man, taking advantage of a new illegal industry and hoping to convince the best in the business to join him. His justification sounded good but in the end it was nothing more than a justification for something wrong. The Apples were always upstanding, honest, and dependable citizens and always would be no matter what they had to sacrifice, even if it meant their farm.
Applejack finally arrived at Town Hall. It looked like the renovations were finished. She saw Big Macintosh trotting towards her.
“Hey, I brought you lunch,” she said. She slid the basket off her back. “Are they finished with work on Town Hall?”
“Eeyup,” Big Mac said.
“Do they have any more work for you?”
“Nope,” he said sadly.
Applejack smiled at him, “Ah don’t worry we’ll find something else, they paid you right?”
“Eeyup.”
“See, we’ll get through this,” Applejack said. “Anyway I came down to deliver lunch. Granny fixed some for us.”
Big Mac brightened a bit. Applejack opened the basket, inside there were sandwiches, milk, and a couple of apple fritters. They ate lunch and then headed back to Sweet Apple Acres. They were almost out of town when they ran into Twilight, she was carrying saddlebags laden with books.
Applejack smiled at her friend, “Hey Twilight, nice to see you.”
“Hey Applejack, I haven’t seen you in a while, where you have you been.”
“I’ve been at the farm mostly, we’ve been busy with cider season,” she said. “Where are you off to?”
“I need to drop these off at the library and then the pony gang and I are meeting at Sugarcube Corner, why don’t you come with us?” Twilight asked.
Applejack frowned, “I’m sorry, I’d love to come with you guys, but I’ve got to get back to Sweet Apple Acres, I left Applebloom watching the cider stand.”
“I’m sure Big Mac could take care of that AJ, we haven’t hung out in weeks,” Twilight said.
“Eeyup!” Big Mac said.
“Oh I couldn’t…”
Twilight interrupted her friend, “Nonsense I’m sure Big Mac would be happy to give you a break.”
Big Mac nodded, “Eeyup.”
Applejack smiled, “Alright then, if you insist. I’ll see you back at the farm Big Mac.”
“Eeyup,” he turned and continued out of town.
Applejack trotted off with Twilight to the library.
Twilight began the conversation, “So how’s business?”
“Alright,” Applejack said, “Slower than usual but we’re managing.”
“Has Big Mac found work?” Twilight asked.
“Who told you he’s looking for work?”
“It isn’t that hard to figure out,” Twilight said. “He’s the only one of your family coming into town on a regular basis and more to the point I’ve seen him working!”
“Oh, I suppose that is rather obvious,” Applejack said. “We just need a little extra money to help us get by.”
“AJ if you’re having money problems I’m sure Princess Celestia would be more than happy to…”
“No thank you Twilight we will get through this on our own,” Applejack said frostily.
“It would be no trouble, the Princess has promised to not let any apple farms close up because they couldn’t sell enough cider.”
Applejack stayed firm, “That’s nice Twi but we are not going to accept help from anypony especially the Princess.”
“But…”
“No buts Twilight.” Applejack spoke more warmly, “I know you’re trying to help but the Apple Family has always been reluctant to accept charity, and we are not accepting any assistance from any form of government.”
Twilight sighed, “Alright then, but don’t let your pride bankrupt you.”
“You don’t need to worry about us, like I said, we’re managing,” Applejack said. “It’s a lot harder than most winters but we’ll pull through.”
Twilight was reassured, “Alright then. But if you do need any help you know where here.”
Applejack smiled again, “Of course Twilight, I know.” They remained silent the rest of the way to the library. Twilight dropped off her books and they continued to Sugarcube Corner. The Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, Fluttershy and Rarity were all seated at a table in the corner. Twilight and AJ joined their friends.
“Howdy y’all!” Applejack said.
“Applejack darling,” Rarity said. “How nice it is to see you! Where have you been all week?”
Applejack explained her absence the same as she had to Twilight and the rest. She satisfied them and made sure they were aware her family was managing.
“Good to know you’re not going out of business AJ!” Pinkie said, “But if you do have any trouble making ends meet I know plenty of ponies who would be happy to buy some good old Apple Family hard cider!”
“But it’s not legal Pinkie!” Twilight said.
“They know that!” Pinkie leaned across the table and whispered, “But they don’t care.”
“Pinkie I’m surprised at you,” Rarity said. “It seems you don’t care at all that cider’s now illegal.”
“Yeah Pinkie,” Twilight said. “And to talk about it so lightly.”
“Ah I’m just talking to my friends!” Pinkie said, “I know they’d never tell anyone!” She stared at them all, Right?”
“I won’t rat Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash said.
“I know you won’t Dashie,” she said. “I was talking to the rest of you!” Pinkie stared at her friends.
Fluttershy, Applejack, and Rarity reluctantly shook their heads and murmured that they wouldn’t tell anyone.
Pinkie stared at Twilight, “And you Twilight?”
Twilight sighed, “No Pinkie, I won’t tell anyone.
“Pinkie promise?”
Everyone sighed .
“Oh come on! Please?”
Everyone sighed but complied this time. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye,” They all said. Pinkie smiled wide.
“As long as you don’t do anything truly illegal,” Twilight added. “I don’t want you to get yourself hurt or in trouble.”
“Of course not Twilight,” Pinkie said. “Why would I do anything illegal? I just want some fun.”
“Good,” Twilight said.
From there the conversation moved to lighter matters. Fluttershy told them about a new family of beavers that had built a dam on a stream close to her cottage. Rarity talked of some of her new clients and the stress of filling their orders. Twilight told them all about new study assignments from the Princess, though this topic was quickly glossed over in favor of Rainbow’s talk of some of her new tricks. They talked, ate, and hung out for a few hours, by the time Applejack and her friends left Sugarcube Corner the sun was setting. She said goodbye to her friends and trotted back to Sweet Apple Acres.
She felt much better after being with her friends. But the concerns of her Family’s finances still weighed heavily on her mind. She reached the farm and trotted towards their house.

Author's Note

Here's the second chapter finally. I was unexpectedly without computer access for most of the week so I got it out much later than I planned. But worry not! I am getting Chapter 3 underway and hope to have that for you in a few days.

Chapter III

The next three days passed uneventfully. Big Mac had friends in town that would inform him if there was more work to be found and until then he stayed at the farm. This gave Applejack more opportunity to go into town. She met with her friends and tried to drum up business. She hadn’t seen Filthy Rich in town and was thankful for it. Business did not pick up any, but it also had not slowed. All of AJ’s friends had come at least once.
Applejack was returning from town with Winona, they had gone to thire first pony-pet playdate Applejack had been to in weeks. She was feeling much better after seeing her friends for a few days in a row, and was looking forward to seeing them again tomorrow. She trotted to the cider stand. Big Macintosh was tending it.
“Anymore ponies come by today?” Applejack asked.
“Eeyup!”
“More than yesterday?”
“Nope,” Big Mac said.
Applejack sighed, “Aw well. But I’ve got good news, Caramel said there’s some building that’s going to need doing in Ponyville and they might need you.”
Big Macintosh nodded.
“It’s almost dinnertime,” she said.
“Eeyup,” he said.
Applejack and Big Macintosh trotted up to the farmhouse. When they reached it, she could smell something cooking inside. AJ and Big Mac walked in, she hung her hat up and went into the kitchen. Inside Granny and Applebloom were cooking.
“I’m sorry I couldn’t help with dinner tonight,” Applejack said.
“We don’t mind, do we Applebloom?” Granny Smith said.
“Yeah, it’s alright sis,” Applebloom said. “You’ve been cooking every night for us, you needed a break.”
Applejack smiled, “Alright then, it smells delicious.” She washed up and set the table for dinner. Big Mac helped bring the food in. They ate and then had desert. Granny had fixed a large apple pie. AJ’s mouth watered when she saw it. It both looked and smelled wonderful. Applejack sliced it and served it.
The pie was delicious, the apples had the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and the crust was the perfect container for the filling. It was one of the best Granny Smith had made and that was saying a lot. Applejack could tell she had used the best ingredients.
But there was also something more, Granny had hinted that she would pour something special into the mix when the occasion called for it. She was the only one who knew what it was. The Apples and their extended family would often share their theories. Some said it was a secret sauce or some combination of spices, others thought it was love or some magic Granny had learned long ago.
Applejack thought she had a good idea what the secret was. She doubted it was some rare spice that was only found in the depths of the Everfree Forest, nor did she think it was all entirely love or some magic, both of these were too precise. Applejack believed that these were both, in some degree, elements to it but she thought it was more serendipitous than that. She thought that only the perfect alignment of all the factors could lead to a pie as good as this one, it was an event triggered by chance. Or perhaps fate.
Whatever the reason though the Apple Family was grateful to have a delicious pie on this night. When everything else seemed to go wrong, the pie reminded them that no matter what they still had a loving family.
They cleaned up after dinner and spent a leisurely evening together, they talked and laughed by the fire. Applebloom talked about what was happening at school recently and the newest schemes the Cutie Mark Crusaders had conducted to find their special talents. Granny related the day’s events to Applejack, and she told them about the pony-pet playdate in return. All the while Big Mac sat and stated his opinions through his characteristic ‘Eeyups’ and ‘Nopes’.
They talked until it was Applebloom’s bedtime. They all went with her upstairs and tucked her in. Applejack was the last one to leave, before she left she gave her little sister a kiss on the forehead.
“Goodnight sis,” Applebloom said.
“Goodnight Applebloom.” Applejack trotted downstairs, her hooves clopped on the wooden floor. She descended into the living room. Granny Smith stayed for a few more minutes and then went up to bed. AJ and Big Macintosh stayed up for a little longer just enjoying the fire. Finally Big Mac rose from his seat.
“You going up to bed?” Applejack asked.
“Eeyup,” Big Mac said.
“Alright, sweet dreams,” she said.
He went upstairs to bed. Applejack stayed by the fire thinking. It had been a good day, no it had been a great day. It had been the best she had since Trotstead was issued. For a few hours she had forgotten her troubles, the weight of constant worry about her family was lifted from her mind. But now her family had gone to sleep and she was alone with her thoughts. The weight returned worse than ever. She knew she had to keep hoping that things would be alright but the more time passed the less likely it appeared they would pull through winter. The only way they could make it was if cider sales picked up drastically and with the speakeasies that was next to impossible. Even if Big Mac got a full time job the earnings couldn’t support the family for the winter.
She tried to plan someway to make it through. Applejack thought of numerous schemes to save the farm. Going to work in Ponyville herself, selling excess possessions, renting land, selling parts of the farm. None of it would work. She shed a tear, she held back the rest, she couldn’t let herself give in to despair. Hope was her only weapon now, she couldn’t let it vanish. She had to be strong.
She looked around the room. It was only lit by the dying fire. She was starting to feel loneliness. The feeling of despair was just the gloomy atmosphere. It was getting to her. She looked at the clock, it had already been two hours since Big Mac went to bed. She rose from her chair and went up the stairs, she moved slowly, still feeling hopeless.
“It’ll be better in the morning,” she said to herself. “The sun will come up and I’ll be with my family and friends.” She quietly crept past the other bedroom doors. She could hear Big Mac’s and Applebloom’s snores. But she heard nothing from Granny’s room. Odd, she was a notorious snorer, AJ quietly poked her head in to see if she was okay.
She saw Granny leaning over a desk covered with papers. A lantern dimly illuminated her.
“Granny, you alright?” Applejack asked.
She was startled, “I’m fine AJ! Just go back to bed,” Granny said while shuffling papers on the desk.
Applejack trotted into the room, she stood next to Granny, “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing,” Granny said. Lines on her cheeks glistened in the lantern light.
“Have you been crying?” AJ asked, concerned.
“No I’ve just…” she choked up. “Oh AJ, just look,” she said between sobs. Under a stack of papers Granny pulled out an official looking notice. Foreclosure was written in bold, bright red letters.
AJ took the paper and read it, ‘Notice of Foreclosure, if the Apple Family fails to make payments on their property, Sweet Apple Acres, said property will be foreclosed on within the month’ the following was full of legalese terms AJ glossed over, she dropped the paper on the floor. Tears pooled in her eyes, she tried to blink them back.
“What are we going to do?” Granny asked.
AJ held back the tears and sobs, “I don’t know Granny.”
Granny sobbed again, “This isn’t the first one I’ve gotten, I’ve tried to hide them. I fixed the pie the best I could and tried to make a nice evening for us, I just wanted y’all to have a little more hope. Especially you, you needed one last night of hope, I was going to tell you tomorrow.”
AJ composed herself long enough to give Granny an answer, “We’ll find a way through this…”
“I know I kept saying that but we can’t, there ain’t enough money,” Granny said.
AJ continued, “But we can’t do anything about it tonight, we both need some sleep and in the morning we can come up with a solution.”
Granny nodded, Applejack wiped her own tears and then wiped Granny’s. She never thought she’d be the source of strength for her grandmother. But it was apparent the elderly mare had lost hope, not that Applejack had anymore but someone needed to be strong. She helped Granny into bed and promised her she would make everything alright. They said goodnight and Applejack left for her own room.
In the privacy of her own room Applejack finally lost all composure. Every concern and worry of the past month came flooding through. She sobbed, she couldn’t, at least not in here, they would hear. She couldn’t let them, especially not Granny.
She quietly crept out of her room, she descended the stairs and burst out the front door before galloping into the night. Her blonde mane blew behind her in the night air. She was racing towards her favorite spot of Sweet Apple Acre’s orchards. She crested a small hill and came under the shelter of a small apple tree. This was where Bloomberg had grown up before being given to Appleloosa.
She sat down on her haunches and looked out over the orchards, she cried, sobs racked her body and broke the night’s silence. It was over, she had failed her family. There wasn’t enough time to do anything. She had lost her family’s farm, their livelihood and their very pride. She thought of the future. When the farm was taken how would they feed and house themselves? AJ’s friends would probably let them live with them until her and her family got back on their feet. It would hurt their pride but what else could they do. AJ and Big Mac would find jobs and rent someplace for the family. But what if they couldn’t? Would they have to move away from Ponyville, from Applejack’s friends?
Applejack sunk deeper into despair than she ever had before, all hope was gone from her. There was no way out, only a grim, joyless future. She sobbed harder. Time passed indeterminately. She stopped crying, dried her eyes, and shakily rose to her hooves to head back to the farmhouse. She didn’t know what she was going to do when she got there. Halfway there she realized something, there was something she could do, one way out. A dark hope rose in her mind. One. Last. Choice.
It was then that something snapped inside her. Applejack changed directions, she galloped towards the road leading to Ponyville.

Applejack knocked on the door, the bang of her hoof echoed through the night. She paused and waited for somepony to answer the door before knocking again. She banged louder this time in the hopes of rousing one of the houses inhabitants.
She saw a light turn on inside. The door was opened by an unhappy, drowsy, mare. “What is it?” She asked. “Miss Apple what are you doing knocking on our door at this uncelestial hour?”
“Hi Mrs. Rich, I’m sorry to intrude at this time of night but can I talk to your husband?”
“Whatever for?”
“I need to talk over some emergency business with him,” Applejack said.
Mrs. Rich sighed and trotted back into her house. Applejack waited a few moments before Filthy Rich came to the door. His hair and fur were an unbrushed mess, AJ guessed that he wouldn’t normally greet ponies in the middle of the night like this. “Miss Apple, what a pleasure, despite the hour! Will you come in?” he asked.
“Sure,” Applejack said. She walked inside, Filthy Rich led her to his office.
“Please sit down,” said Mr. Rich, nodding to a seat. He took his spot in the chair behind the desk.
Applejack sat down.
“May I get you something to drink Miss Apple?” he asked, pulling out a bottle of golden liquid, and a couple of glasses.
“No thank you.”
He poured himself a drink and put the other glass away, “What may I help you with Miss Apple?”
Applejack looked across at Mr. Rich, “Listen, let’s cut through the formalities and get to business. You know exactly why I’m here.”
“Yes I do, partially at least. What made you come to this decision?”
Applejack glared at him, “Doesn’t matter.”
“Couldn’t manage?”
“Doesn’t matter,” Applejack said again with emphasis.
Mr. Rich smirked and continued, “What are you proposing?”
Applejack sighed, this was her last chance to turn back. She swallowed hard, “The Apple family has some hard cider stored in our cellars from before the prohibition. After Trotstead we weren’t sure what to do with it. But now we’re having trouble making ends meet and the only way to save the farm’s to sell it, legal or not.”
“How much do you have?” Filthy Rich asked.
“I’d prefer not to reveal the exact number we have. I can tell you we have enough to make a large amount of money.”
“Business partners should be upfront with one another Miss Apple,” Mr. Rich said. “It creates trust.”
Applejack scowled but still acquiesced, “We have around thirty barrels.”
“A respectable amount,” he said. “It will go for a lot considering its high quality Apple family cider. But imagine how many bits we could make if you started making it with us…”
“No!” Applejack said firmly. “This is a one-shot deal, we just need to make enough for the winter.”
“How much do you need to make?”
“I don’t know, Granny Smith handles the financial side of things at the farm,” Applejack said.
“Does she know about this?”
“That’s no business of yours!” she said.
Mr. Rich nodded, “So you’re conducting illegal activity outside of your family’s knowledge? My, my Miss Apple I am surprised.”
Applejack’s scowl deepened, “I don’t need your sarcasm.”
“I am, I didn’t think you had it in you to do what was necessary to save Sweet Apple Acres and your family.”
“Well I am, I need to do this. How much money can I make?”
“Well, let me think about that for a moment,” he appeared to calculate numbers in his head. “Well we normally get around thirty bits a barrel, however judging by the quality of yours I can definitely say we could raise it to fifty and still sell them quickly.”
“And that would give us fifteen-hundred,” Applejack said.
“Of which I would require a percentage,” he said shrewdly. “Normally I’d charge fifty percent for serving as middleman but given our families’ history together I would charge you a mere third of the proceeds.”
That would be a thousand bits. It could sustain the farm for another couple of months, but Applejack wasn’t sure it would last them through the whole winter.
“That sounds fair,” she said.
“I won’t even charge extra for transport,” he said. He yawned, “But that’s enough business for the night, I never like to get too far into business matters when I am only half awake.”
“I’ll come back tomorrow,” AJ said while rising.
“No,” Mr. Rich said. “I don’t want my family to know I’m getting myself involved in this, you certainly understand that.”
Applejack nodded.
“How about we meet someplace tomorrow,” he said.
Applejack considered this for a moment, “Where did you have in mind?”
“There are numerous speakeasies in town where we could speak in peace,” he said.
She shook her head, “No, I’m already involved as much as I want in this business. We meet at the park, water fountain.”
Mr. Rich sighed, “As you wish Miss Apple, 3:00 PM?”
Applejack nodded, “See you tomorrow Mr. Rich.” Without a word more she rose and left his office. She went out the front door and headed back home.
She walked slowly, it was an almost cloudless night. The stars twinkled in the sky and Luna’s moon shone bright with much beauty. Though her mood was somber Applejack still admired the sky. Despite knowing she was about to save her farm she wasn’t happy. There was hope, but it was tainted. This course of action would cost her, she didn’t know how much but she knew it wouldn’t be cheap.
She turned off the road leading back to the farm. She didn’t feel ready to return home yet. She toured around Ponyville. She trotted through the sleeping town. The windows of the buildings were dark and the streets were abandoned, save for one insomnia stricken pony. She exchanged pleasantries with him as they passed each other. Applejack came to the marketplace. She sat down and simply watched the night pass.
She began to feel very tired. She headed out of town and back towards the farm. When she crested the hill she looked over Sweet Apple Acres. It was hers’ and her family’s, none would take it from them now. She would give them their money and they’d leave Them alone.
She walked through the front gate and reached the farmhouse. After walking in she looked at the clock 4:00 AM. She went back up to her room, got in bed, and fell asleep.

The next day dawned. Applejack woke up much later than usual. When she awoke she looked at the clock and saw it was 11:00 AM. She snapped out of her bed, and brushed her mane just enough to combat the bedhead.
She rushed downstairs saying, “Sorry I overslept! I didn’t mean to! I’ll get to work straight away.”
Granny Smith was the first to see her, “Don’t worry about it young’n,” she said, in surprising high spirits considering what happened last night. She was a better actor than Applejack gave her credit for. “We had everything handled so we figured we could let you sleep in a little later than usual.”
“You didn’t have to do that,” Applejack said. “I would’ve been fine getting up.”
“Well you overslept the rooster so I figured you must’ve gone to sleep later than usual,” Granny’s mood became more somber, “Because what I told you.”
“Well I did go out to town for a walk,” AJ said.
“Really?” Granny said, surprised. “I just figured you stayed up thinking. Did you do anything interesting?”
There were numerous ways to answer that, “No,” she said. It wasn’t a lie, at least from AJ’s point of view, she didn’t think her family would find illicit business dealings interesting.
“Alright then.” Granny looked her in the eye, “And don’t worry, I’m sorry you had to see me like that last night. I do think there’s still hope for us.”
Applejack nodded grimly, “I know there is.”
Granny brightened, “That’s my girl! Now there’s some leftover breakfast for you in the kitchen. Applebloom’s at school and Big Mac’s out at the cider stand, he shouldn’t need any help with that. But we do have some chores around the house that need doing.”
“I’ll be glad to do them, but I also need to go into town at around 3:00,” she said.
Granny smiled, “Going to go visit your friends again? That’ll fine.”
“Good,” Applejack said. She didn’t correct her Granny as to the purpose of her visit. She ate toast and jam. She cleaned up and found Granny again. She told AJ what needed done around the house, sweeping floors, dusting, and a couple other tasks. She spent the afternoon finishing these. It was 2:00 by the time Applejack finished the chores. It was still a little early to head into town so she ate lunch.
She finally left the farmhouse and headed towards town once again. The road towards town was busier than usual. Above her, the sky was cloudy but clearing, specks of blue could be seen and a brighter section of cloud showed where the sun was. As she reached the outskirts of town she looked at a new Barnyard Bargains being constructed. Its construction began shortly before cider season and was really starting to shape up. Big Mac had asked them about working on a crew but they told him they already had three fully staffed construction crews, but they would notify him if a spot opened up. She sighed, at least someponies’ businesses were thriving.
She arrived at the park. She looked around there were ponies picnicking, and crowded around the fountain, but she didn’t see Filthy Rich. She spied an available bench not far away and sat down on it.
Applejack waited for Filthy Rich, she wasn’t sure of the time, it had been only a few minutes after 2:20 when she left, so it was very likely she was simply early. She waited for a few minutes before she saw Filthy Rich trotting towards her and her suspicions were confirmed. He looked much better than last night, his mane and fur were brushed and he wore his collar and tie. He saw her and made his way to the bench.
“Miss Apple, I was afraid you’d be late,” he began.
“Why did you think that?”
He sat down next to her, “I thought you might be struggling with this, contemplating backing out.”
Applejack stared at him, “I told you I wanted to make a deal, and I meant it, I ain’t going back on my word.”
“Excellent,” he said. “Now to discuss terms.”
Applejack looked around, she saw nopony was close enough to overhear. Still she spoke in hushed tone, “As I said last night, we have thirty barrels of hard apple cider in one of our cellars. Now what I need you to do is transport and sell it.”
“Sounds like a simple affair, we can probably accomplish the transport tonight and sell it over the next few days, with luck you can get your proceeds by the end of the week.”
Applejack looked hard at him, “I am trusting you with this. I need a guarantee you won’t take the cider and sell it without giving us a cent.”
“Miss Apple, who do you think I am?” Mr. Rich asked, genuinely offended, “I have been a friend and business partner of your family for years. I would never do such a horrible thing.”
“You promise?”
“Of course!” he said. “I understand where you would get an idea like that. If someone did steal it you couldn’t go to the authorities. And your family’s in the dark over this, you’d have no help. But I can assure you Miss Apple,” he looked her in the eyes, Applejack saw no deception in his look. “You can trust me with your cider.”
Applejack felt more at ease with this, “Alright then, sounds simple enough, you come by and get the cider, then sell it, take your cut and give me the rest of the money.”
“That’s your end of the deal, I’ll take care of the rest. I’ll take a third of whatever your cider nets us.”
Applejack thought for a moment, “It all sounds too simple.”
“It’s not,” Mr. Rich said, “Standard stockpile sale. I’ve already done half-a-dozen of these deals. But yours is the largest so far, and the one getting the best deal I might add.” He cleared his throat, “Of course if this is too simple for you, you can always start manufacturing again.”
Applejack looked him hard in the eye, “Absolutely not! I told you this is a one-shot deal. Just to get my family through the winter, you remember?”
“I do, but what if it’s not enough? And what about the winter after that? And the next winter, if Trotstead’s not repealed soon I have a feeling it will stay around for quite a while.”
“Be that as it may, I will not allow my family to make hard cider. If we have any future difficulties we will face them legally, we’re a little short on time right now so this is necessary,” she leaned into Filthy Rich’s face, “But don’t think for a moment this is what I want to do, or that I am doing this for greed.”
“As you wish Miss Apple,” Mr. Rich rose from the bench. “I and my ponies will come by Sweet Apple Acres tonight at 3:00 AM. You need to make sure your entire family is asleep and then be out by the front gate to meet us and help us load the cider.”
“Alright,” she said.
“When I have finished selling the cider I will personally deliver the proceeds myself,” Mr. Rich.
Applejack was actually impressed by his dedication, “How courteous of you.”
“I know, the personal touch is crucial, especially between old friends. See you tonight Miss Apple, regretfully I cannot stay and socialize, there are details I need to see to before tonight.”
“Then I’ll see you then,” she said.
“Yes we shall,” he turned and trotted towards town.
Applejack watched him leave until he was out of sight. She then sat and decided what to do next.

The time between Applejack’s and Filthy Rich’s meeting in the park, and the picking up of the cider passed unceremoniously. AJ popped in and said hi to her friends before returning home for dinner. While there was no divine pie to finish off the meal it there was still very good food served. The family spent another leisurely evening by the fire before going to bed. Applejack lay awake as she anticipated the meeting. She tossed and turned as the clock ticked on.
She tried to drive guilt from her conscience. She knew it was illegal but she knew it was only one act to save her farm. Nopony would get hurt, the Apples could continue living at Sweet Apple Acres, Filthy Rich would grind out some profit, and the bank would get their payments. Everypony would be happy. While this was more than enough justification for her mind, Applejack’s heart was not so easily abated. She looked over at the clock, 2:01.
She told the guilty part of herself that there was nothing else she could do but lose her farm. She had said that to herself countless times over the past twenty-four hours. And while it was true she still felt wrong inside.
She glanced at the clock again.
2:02
She flopped on her back and sighed. She got up from her bed. Before trotting downstairs she checked to make sure here family members were all soundly asleep. She left the farmhouse. Outside she could see her breath, the cool night air rejuvenated her. She went down to the cellar to inspect the barrels. The cellar doors were right next to the barn. She opened them and descended. She lit a lantern, illuminating the cellar by flickering candle light. There they were, thirty oak barrels stacked up on top of each other, each filled to the brim with delicious, golden, apple cider. Applejack had dubbed it the one and only liquid gold, and not because of its value. It was delicious, it was aromatic, and for the last month it had been and still was contraband.
The cellar was almost empty. They had several others on the farm, all of which were empty save for one which held the excess dry cider.
She sat on her haunches and stared at the barrels. A voice inside her told her to turn back and cancel the deal.
“I can’t,” she said out loud. “I made a deal with Mr. Rich.”
Burn them, say it was an accident.
“No,” she told herself. She blew out the lantern and left the cellar. But the voice still repeated the thought.
Burn it, burn it, burn it.
The thought occurred to her that this was her consciences giving her a way out, she tried to silence it with the same arguments she had been repeating over and over to justify herself.
Burn it, burn it.
“And what if it burns down the barn?” Applejack asked her conscience. It failed to respond. “That’s what I thought,” she said harshly.
Satisfied that she had placated or at least silenced her conscience for now she went out to the road to meet Filthy Rich and his ponies, she stood waiting. She glanced at the trees across the road, most of the leaves had turned and soon it would be time for the next annual Running of the Leaves. Applejack wished to race again but was unsure whether she’d be able to with all the Apple’s other worries.
She tapped her hoof on the ground from impatience. Soon she began to pace, a sigh passed her lips. Applejack was normally a patient pony, but the nature of the night’s plans made her uneasy. She was worried that one of her family would wake up and discover she was missing or see her out here and come out to meet her. She was confident she could give them an explanation to satisfy them but they might not leave before Filthy Rich showed up, or worse wake up after he arrived and ask what was going on.
Applejack shook her head, her family were all sound sleepers, they had never hardly gotten up in the middle of the night, there was no reason they would tonight.
Tired of waiting, she lay down on her back and looked up at the sky. The clouds had not cleared anymore since her walk to the park. She saw a few gaps in the clouds where stars could be seen but she saw no sign of the moon.
Just when she was about to rise from the ground she heard the clopping of hooves and the wheels of a cart rolling. She quickly rose and looked down the road. She saw a wagon being pulled by two ponies, both large stallions. She saw three others trotting alongside it. The only one of them she identified was Filthy Rich.
Applejack opened the larger gate the Apple’s used for carts. She waved them through. “Quite,” she whispered as they passed. “The cellar’s by the barn.”
Filthy Rich stopped and greeted her, “Miss Apple.”
“Mr. Rich.”
“Here I am, as promised,” he checked a small watch, strapped to his forehoof. “And right on time. Now please guide us to the cellar.”
Applejack nodded and showed them the way to the cellar. When they arrived the two stallions pulling the cart, untethered themselves from the harnesses. AJ threw open the doors and went down, she again lit the lantern.
A low, satisfied hum came from Filthy Rich, “Look at it all boys, beautiful ain’t it?”
All four of his workers nodded.
Mr. Rich looked to Applejack, “Let’s not delay any further.” He nodded towards his ponies and they began to quietly lift the barrels onto their backs and take them out of the cellar. Applejack gave the stack a bump and a barrel fell on her back. Filthy Rich once again impressed her by doing the same and carrying it to the surface. They worked in two teams, one brought the barrels out of the cellar and the other loaded them in the cart. Working this way they soon had the entire supply loaded. There was just enough room in the cart to carry them all. The two large stallions hooked themselves back up to the wagon and started back for the road. The other two workers followed them.
Filthy Rich stayed behind and watched them leave for a moment and then turned to Applejack. “Well Miss Apple, pleasure doing business with you.” He extended his forehoof.
Applejack took it her own and shook it lightly, “I’ll be getting my money in a few days?”
Filthy Rich smiled, “Count on it. Until next time Miss Apple.” He turned and trotted after his wagon, laden with Apple Family hard cider.
Applejack turned towards the farmhouse and went back in. In the dim light she barely saw Applebloom standing in the living room. Applejack’s heart jumped.
Applebloom yawned, her mane was a frizzy mess and she was missing her bow, “What are you doing up sis?”
Applejack stared at her in shock for a moment before regaining her composure, “I was just checking cider inventory.” She hated being dishonest with her little sister but I was for her own good. “What are you doing up?”
“I think I heard something,” she said.
Applejack swallowed hard, panic rose but was quickly suppressed. They were already on their way back towards town. “Oh, well I’m sure it was nothing. Let me get you some warm milk.”
“Okay.”
Applejack went into the kitchen and heated some milk. They both had a glass and soon they went back up the stairs to their bedrooms. Applejack tucked her little sister back in bed before returning to her own.
She felt much less restless. Soon she slipped into sleep with the knowledge her farm’s future was secure.

Author's Note

Here's the third chapter right on schedule! Hope you enjoy, comments are greatly appreciated.

Prologue

An old mare walked into her family’s farmhouse. She spied her usual chair in the corner with a table beside it. A newspaper sat on top of it. She walked over to it, her hooves clopped on the wooden floor. She sat down in the chair and picked the paper up, reading the article on the front page once more.

Equestria Decreed Dry!

After much anticipation and build-up Princess Celestia has issued the Trotstead Decree, illegalizing the manufacture, transport, and sale of alcoholic beverages. This decision is the result of months of debate and mounting pressure on the Equestrian Government by temperance organizations. Despite support amongst many of the larger cities of Equestria, the new law enacted a mere two weeks before the start of cider season has caused uproar amongst cider loving rural towns. Particularly Ponyville, Fillypine, and Whinnypeg, these towns were the center of opposition to the temperance movement in the months leading up to the Trotstead decree. Particularly vocal members included the Smith family of Whinnypeg, the Apple and Trotter families of Fillypine, and the Apple and Rich families of Ponyville. Polls have indicated that as few as half of Equestrian residents are in support of the Trotstead Decree. Already protests against the new law have been staged across Equestria. Despite the opposition Princess Celestia has stated that the majority of ponies are still in favor of temperance and she shall remain firm on the matter.
Temperance organizations argue…

Granny Smith put the paper down and sighed.