Two Strings Attachedby Onyxfire408ChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 4EpilogueBonus ChapterSeveral Years LaterChapter 3Chapter 1Two Strings Attached Chapter 1 You wake up to the sounds of apple bucking and conversations nearby your room. You get up from your bed and open the door to find Applejack with a nervous grin on her face. "Hey AJ whats up?" "Oh good it's you, Ah been looking for you, can we talk?" "Shoot, missy." "Well, in 3 days there's going to be a celebration mah whole entire family has, it's the Apple Family Reunion." You don't really recall an Apple family reunion but, it doesn't bother you one bit. "Ah was wonder'in if you wanted to help us git ready for the festival. Wanna help out sugarcube?" "Uh...Sure! Why not?" Applejack's ear's perked up at your answer, she gave a confused look at you. "Whaa? Ya sure sugar cuge? It's gonna be a lot of work." "Eh... I like some good hard work, anyways, when do we start?" you asked "First thing tomorrow, and be ready for some hard time." Applejack said as she went downstairs. You've been always available to help out the Apple family, they took you in when you were homeless, all you had was a guitar but you made no money with it. You've been happily working for the Apple Family, they gave you a roof to sleep under and food to eat, all in all, you were happy the way things are. You go back into your room, you wanted to get some sleep to get ready for tomorrow morning, but before that you wanted to practice your song. You pick up your guitar and sat on your bed, you started to pluck your strings to get the right tune. "Alright now where was I?" You started strummed at your guitar, getting the right G's E's and D notes, you started to hum the lyrics since you knew what they were in your head." "-A Lesson learned in Time". The Lyrics were coming to your head like a buck from Applejack, but just one part. "-through what it's worth, it was worth all the.. the... aw damn... can't think." You place your guitar down and lied down on your bed. "It'll come to me, it always does." You predicted as you drift off to sleep. You slowly opened your eyes as he hear a rapid knocking at your door. You get up and slowly open the door, in front of you, you find that there was nopony there. You begin to close the door as it was stopped. "Hey you, down here!" You look down to find that Applebloom, Applejack's little sister, was with her friends Sweetiebelle and Scootaloo. "Oh hey there Applebloom, you still doing that crusading of yours?" "Yea, but that's not why we're here, Applejack need's your help with the eastern orchard to help buck some trees." "Okay, tell AJ that I'll be down there. Gotta grab some stuff real quick." "Okay, we'll see ya later." Applebloom said as as she and her friends zoomed off screaming. "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS! YEA!!!". Your ears rung as you heard the three fillies announce their name for like the babillionth time. "Ugh... my ears." You rub your ears in ease and head outside towards the eastern orchard. On your way you happen to pass by Granny Smith, Appljack's grandmother. "Hello Miss Smith." "Why hello deary, oh I'm sorry to trouble you but can you help for a little while?" She asked "Sure. Watcha need?" "Well I was walking around zap apple orchards, I was checking on the tree since it was almost Zap apple season, but when I was going back I realized I dropped my old pocket watch there. If you wouldn't mind deary, if you pass by those orchards, can you look for my watch please?" "Sure Miss Smith, I'll be sure to look around." "Thank you deary." She said as you two separated into opposite direction. You walked the rest of the trail towards the eastern orchard, at the end you find Applejack bucking some apples off of trees and into some baskets. Applejack had a small crush on you, you highly knew of it but was not interested. She always tries to coo you but, strength isn't your style. You walk up to her to give her a hand. "Hey AJ, Applebloom said that you needed some help bucking some trees, is that right? "Wah sure cutie." Oh how much you despise that name. You gave a small frown as Applejack giggled at your annoyance. "Sorry sugarcube couldn't help myself. But ya, c'mon and help me out with the trees, we ah gonna make some good old fashion fritters for the family." "Alright let's get to work." You and Applejack spent almost 2 hours clearing out the eastern orchard, you started to sweat but you don't mind, hard work for a hard pony. You load in the last batch of apples into the cart, you place the collar around you neck and start pulling as Applejack started to follow. As you two walk back to the farm, you, she tried to get in close to you but you politely reject her. "AJ how many times to I have to tell you, I'm not interested, I'm sorry if I'm breaking your heart but you just need to move on." "Ah know that sugarcutie." ... No comment you thought in your head. "But it's just that ah can't help it, your just to darn cute, I could buck you." Your eyes widened at that one compliment. "W....What?" You said in fear "I meant buck as in kick. Ah didn't mean it that way." She huffed as she faced away from you. "Still both ways are strange, so what else needs to be done?" "Well Big Mac needs some help chopping fire wood, after this you could help him." "Aight." The two of you finish moving the apple, You head off to the barn to help Big Macintosh, Applejack's brother, chop wood. You say your goodbyes to Applejack, she said goodbye blowing a kiss to you, oh how much you immensely despise Applejack's flattering. You make your way through the orchard and onto the barn, there you find Big Mac chopping firewood, and behind him a large pill of chopped firewood. "Hey Big Mac, need a hand?" "Eeyup." Big Mac hand's you a large ax, the two you chop firewood till the Celestia's sun set and Luna's moon rose. The two of you finished chopping as much wood and head back to the farmhouse to grab dinner. On your way there Big Mac's face expression hasn't changed, it was the still flat poker face you always saw. "Ah heard that you rejected mah sister again." He said in a cold tone. Here we go. You thought. "Yes, look Mac, I know you care for your sister and all but, like I said for like the millionth time, I'm just not interested." "Ah know that, to be honest, I don't know how to stop it. But if you find nopony that's your type and you've run out of options then you have my permission to go with her." The two of you reach the farm house just in time for supper. You eat to your heart's content until you couldn't feed the beast within you any longer. You go upstairs to catch some sleep, tomorrow morning was your day off since you weren't really Apple family blood. You open the door an on your bed you find a single rose and a note attached to one of it's thorns. You pick up the note to find- Dear Sugarcutie I think since you have the day off an all, that you should come celebrate the family reunion with us, even though your not Apple family blood I thing of you as honorary family. Also enjoy the rose, I got it from Roseluck, she says that it's the best to get a stallion. From your boss- AJ You think it over whether to attend the family reunion, AJ did have a point, you were considered family to her and her siblings. The only thing that irritated you was the rose, "please kill me now" say to yourself as you threw away the note and pick up your guitar. "Alright now what can that last word be." You begin to strum the same song over and over again, but what you couldn't find is the last word to the song. It's been plaguing your mind for months now, but you couldn't find the last word for the song. You place your guitar down and get on with some sleep, after all you decided that you were going to that reunion. Chapter 2Two Strings Attached Chapter 2 You slowly wake up to the sound of... wait a minute...nothing? Strange enough you wake up to the sound of nothing, it was silent, normally you'd hear apple bucking, screaming, or even a sonic rainboom from the one and only Rainbow Dash, but it was quiet...to quiet. You hear some movement coming from under your sheets next to you. You quickly remove your sheets to find that Applejack, your boss was sleeping next to you. You were complete shock, what the hay did she do? But you were going to react in a calm and pleasant manner. "AAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! AJ!?" Yea... so much for calm. Applejack shot her eyes open and was dazed, she looked to you a giggled with a lustful look in her eyes. *Gulp* She crawled over to your face trying to kiss you but you stop her lips with your hand, oh Celestia, please banish me to the moon you thought. "AJ, What the HAY are you doing in my bed!?" "Wah Ah just like you Sugarcube." "OUT NOW!!!" You pick up Applejack and tried to push her out of your room, she struggles back as she wanted to stay with you. When you finally got her out of your room, you quickly lock the door and slump to the floor both hands hiding your face. "Ughh. Note to self, lock the door, every time you go to sleep." Noted You quickly got up and take a hot shower, you put on your usual cloths and head out to the barn to have a quick talk with somepony. You walk over to the barn, looking around you find Big Mac taking a nap on a nearby tree, you approach Big Mac and tap him on the shoulder waking him up. "Big Mac, we needa talk." "Shoot pardner." "Well..." You slowly and carefully explain to Big Mac, as well as avoiding a punch or a trip to the hospital. "And so all I'm asking is, can you please talk to her, I've tried reasoning, demanding, and begging, but nothing works, please tell her to stop." Big Mac had an icy glare on you, your back felt a shrivel down to the waist. "Well I hafta admit, I'm a bit shocked mahself that mah sister would do something like this, but since it wasn't your fault entirely, I'll talk some sense into her." "Thanks Big Mac" Things still felt quiet, and strange. "Hey Big Mac why is it so quiet?" "Almost time." "Almost time for wha-" You were interrupted as the ground started to rumble. Was it an earthquake? You look over to Big Mac who was completely calm and had a small grin on his face. "Big Mac, what's going on?" "Time for the reunion." You look over to the road and suddenly about thousands of ponies came galloping over to Sweet Apple Acres, all of them going "Yee haw" and all, god you didn't know what was worse, the yeehawing or the CMC yelling out their name. "Welp, see you later, I gotta catch up with some family." Big Mac got up from the log and walked over to the whole family of Apples. You tried to find something to do but you didn't want to bother nopony with catching up, you go into the farm house to grab something to pass the time. You enter your room carefully to avoid AJ, no sign of her, you look around the room and you grab your guitar. You take your guitar and take the strap and place it over your shoulder. You walk outside to see everypony chatting, laughing, and having fun. You didn't want to bother them one bit. You find a nearby log bench that's a few yards away from the crowd, you started to play your song till your fingers turn purple. As you continuously play the verse you were stopped by a the sudden sounds of a violin. You turn your head to find a yellow butter mare with a sapphire blue mane with a knot tied at the end, she was...pretty. You were the first to speak. "Hey, what's up?" "Nothin, who are you? I don't recall you here last time I visited Applejack." "Name's Strum," You stick out your hand to greet her. "Yours?" "Fiddlesticks," She reaches out your hand and shakes it in welcome. "but you haven't answered my question, who are you really?" "Well, like I said, my name's Strum, and If your wondering, I'm not really Apple blood. What happened was-" 2 Years Ago Applejack along with the CMC was walking along the road towards the western orchards. "Thanks big sis for having my friends come along to help buck some trees." Applebloom gleamed "No problem Applebloom, always available for some help." The four ponies walked along the bath until they found something...strange. "Hey Applejack, is that blood?" Scootaloo pointed to a dry dark red spot that looked like a trail towards a nearby apple tree. "I think I see somepony." "Yea who is that?" asked Sweetiebelle The three fillies ran over to the strange figure, he had a guitar strapped to his back but was breathing heavily. Applejack soon followed along and examined the pony. He had a a few bruises on his head and blood escaping from his mouth. Applejack quickly ran close to the stallion she knelt down and held up his head, he was bleeding little from his mouth and nose. Applejack froze up to looking at his face. Gosh DARN it he's cute. Applejack thought, but now wasn't the time for that, now's the time for aid. She picked up the stallion and hurried over to the farmhouse, the CMC followed her hoping to have their cutie marks in life saving. The stallion was in the guest bed, resting his beaten body. The Apple Family (along with the CMC) was outside the room chattering. "So what should we do with him?" asked Applebloom "Ah think we should wait till he wakes up." suggested Applejack "Eeyup" Followed Big Mac. Applejack came into the guest room, she found the stallion still unconscious on the bed. She sat next to him, she placed her hand on his forehead. "Temperature's normal, not sick but, what happened to you?" You slowly wake up but still blinded what happened, you open your eyes, you look around to find you are in a bed and room. You look to your right to bind a orange mare with a blonde mane and a brown stetson hat. Your head still ached over what happened last night. "Hey, your awake. Finally, who are you?" You struggle but you manage to say your name. "S-S-Strum...where am I?" You said in a weak voice. "Wah your in Sweet Apple Acres, and we found ya bleedin to death near one of mah trees. What happened to you, and why'd you get so banged up?" "Well, to tell you the truth, I'm homeless, and some stallion beat me up b'cause I couldn't find a job and they were sick of me begging for food and bits." "Wah if ah find those stallions, I buck em towards Luna's moon." You chuckled at the mare's gesture. "Heh thanks, but who are you?" "Name's Applejack, proud owner of Sweet Apple Acres." "Why are you helping a poor pony like me?" "Wah nopony should be like this, Noopony. Your welcome to stay as long as you want, your only payment, hard labor." You nod at the suggestion and Applejack walks out of the room. 1 Year Later You have been working for Applejack your new boss to have a roof to sleep under and food to be filled. You were bucking some apple trees and loading the cart. AJ walked up to you with what looked like that she had something hidden behind her back. You raise an eyebrow wondering what AJ was hiding. "Wha hi they Sugarcutie." Please stop with the nicknames PLEASE!!! "I got something for you." She pulls out what looked to be two shining tickets, they shun and glimmered like they were made with gold. You take the tickets and read them, no surprise you reaction was predicted to Applejack. "TWO TICKETS TO THE GRAND GALLOPING GALA!?!? HOW'D YOU GET THESE!?!?" "Well, mah friend is a real good friend of Princess Celestia, I was wonderin since I have two tickets, wanna go on a date with me?" *Gulp* It was either be tortured for the entire night at Canterlot, or go to the biggest event in all of Equestria. You had a tough choice. "let me think about it AJ, when is the gala?" "It's in 3 days." "Hmmmm." You walk away with a disease plaguing your mind. "I guess I can go... eh buck it, I'll go, see what the Gala's all about." You and AJ come back from the gala, problem is your running away from AJ who tried to kiss you at the gala, thank Celestia Pinkie Pie had caused a distraction making your escape. You quickly run to your room and lock the door blocking AJ's path. "Ah'll getcha one day." she giggles as she walks away. "Ah'll getcha." There was silence, she was gone. You gave out a heavy sigh take off your fancy smanshy clothes and slump on the bed, you think about what's going to happen tomorrow, if your going to survive AJ's lust. The Present "And after a few more months, Applejack thought it be a great idea for me to become family, so I gracefully accepted and yea, here I am." you conclude. "Interesting, why don't you enjoy yourself with your cousin in laws?" "Eh.... I don't really want to be a bother, plus I just like to play with old Clef here." "Clef? You mean that guitar of yours?" She pointed at your oak wooden guitar, on the body of the guitar was carved a name Clef. "Yea, it's name is Clef, why? Don't you have a name for your fiddle?" "No, not really." "Well maybe you can give it a name, how long has it been with you?" "Well, pretty much all my life." "Well, maybe you can think of a name, a special name for your instrument." "Why should I?" "Well, think of it this way, that fiddle has been with you all your life. An instrument is like a best friend, something that means something to your life, for example Clef has been with me all my life, like a friend." "Hmmm, that is very true, I can think of a name later." "It's alright, anyways I got a quick question for ya." Fiddlesticks raised an eyebrow. "Out of all the cousins here, who's your favorite?" "Oh that's easy, It's Big Mac." Fiddlesticks stared down at your guitar. "So you good?" "Yea, I'm alright. Wanna jam?" "Wah sure, I've been looking for somepony to have a duet with." "I've notice that you don't use your family accent that much." "Yes, that's true, I have always tried to talk like the famous Octavia with her cello." "Well, chase that dream. But anyways, I'll play a song and you follow up. Sound good?" You play the song that you called "Time of your life." Fiddlesticks added some fiddle to the song, the two of you were flawless, soon everpony, and you mean everypony, started to circle around the two of you, hoof started tapping, rhythm was created, and the song, well that was the problem, you forgot about it it's been a while....wait....'while', you got it. 1:10- "For what it's worth, It was worth all the while. It's something unpredictable but in the end it's right, I hope you had the time of your life." As you end off the song, everypony gives a round of applause and most throw their hat's in the air. "That was appmazing." One pony horribly punned. "Let's celebrate with some cider!" Another pony suggested. Everypony cheered at the cider suggestion and ran towards the barrels full of cider. After hours and hours and HOURS, of drinking, laughing, and chatting, everypony had a great time. Some of the Apple family wanted to meet you and welcome you to the family, you shared your story, while leaving out the Applejack parts, and they gladly consider you an Apple. You finally had a family you're willing to have. You continue to play "Time of your life" as young fillies and colts circle around you in awe, but was interrupted when you felt a tap on your shoulder. You stop strumming and turn around to find Fiddlesticks with a mug full of cider in her hand, she gestures her hand to follow her into the barn. You strap on Clef, and follow Fiddlesticks into the barn, what could she be planning? Author's Note Time of Your Life(Good Riddance) belongs to Green Day. Video/ lyric video belongs to aad0dl on youtube. Chapter 4Two Strings Attached Chapter 4 You were standing proudly in the middle of the entire Apple family as they cheered on towards your victory. Fiddlesticks was besides you still hugging you in your victory against her dad. After a few more hours of partying, eating, and one more glass of the Bloody Mare, you finally deserve some rest. Luna's moon had risen, and you were resting on your favorite spot on the farm, a hill with a great view of the orchards. Fiddlesticks was rested on your lap, almost as if she was sleeping on your lap. You were resting yourself against an apple tree that you picked, planted, and named on top of the hill, Bukington. Your night with Fiddlesticks was perfect. "Hey Fiddlesticks." "Hmm?" "I was wondering, when you played you fiddle this morning, I noticed that I saw what looked like carving on your violin. Care to explain?" "Well, I took your idea of giving my fiddle a name, so I did and I carved it on my fiddle. Thanks by the way." She smiles and gives a peck on your lips. "Your welcome, what's his or her's name?" "Well it's a she, I named her Pluck." "Pluck, hmm... nice name, why'd you give her that name?" "Because I always love to pluck her strings before I play her." "It's a nice name, good job." "Thanks" The two of you wanted to get some sleep, but not on some tree, a nice and comfy bed. The two of you exit your favorite spot and walk through the zap apple orchards. As the two of you were walking through the orchards, you see a tiny flash coming from one of the tree. Is that fire? You and Fiddlesticks walk over to the nearby tree, and find that an object was laying on the ground near the tree. "What is that?" Fiddlesticks asked "Hey that's-" The next morning came, it was probably going to be the worst morning of your life, it was the day Fiddlesticks was going home. You find Fiddlesticks packing up her wagon along with her family. You wanted to say your final goodbyes to her as you two wouldn't see each other for a long time. You walk towards Fiddlesticks, she had tears in her eyes, as she sees you, she hugs and a bawls allover your shoulder. You hug her back to comfort her, you start to tear up a little, you were going to miss her. The two of you break your hug of depression, you look her in the eyes. "Guess this is goodbye." you said "Yep." "Don't worry, you'll see me again, I know it." "I hope I will." Fiddlesticks pulls out a necklace, it was made with yarn and it's pendant was a small wooden carving of a bass clef. "Promise me that when I see you again, you'll give this back." You take the necklace from her hands and immediately wear it. "I promise." Fiddlesticks' father walks by both of you, he places a hand on Fiddlesticks' shoulder. "Cmon honey, It's time to go home. It's time to say your goodbyes, Babs and mother are waiting." Her father then walks over to the wagon to be ready for departure. The two of you held each other close, you looked each other closely in the eyes. Fiddlesticks leans forward and kisses you on the lips. You return the kiss as you pull her in for a more passionate kiss. She breaks up the kiss, and slowly walks towards her wagon and sits inside the tent wagon. As her father starts to pull the wagon, she becomes smaller and smaller until she was gone. You couldn't help but hold on to the base clef necklace you received, there wasn't anything to do left but to play the waiting game. Granny Smith walks over to you and places a hand over your shoulder. "It's okay deary, You'll see her again soon enough." She said as she starts to walk away, but you forgot to do something, you place a hand on her shoulder to stop her. She turns to you with an eyebrow raised. "Yes deary?" You reach into your pocket and pull out a golden pocket watch, you place it on Granny Smith's hand. Her eyes widened as you return her pocket watch. "Thank you deary, I'll reward you one day, you'll see." She said as she walked back towards the farm house. You also wanted to go back to the farm house, but before that you wanted to go for one more ride, at the barn. You walk towards the barn, there you find the same barrel of Bloody Mare labeled on it. You walk up to the barrel, you knock on the barrel. Empty You wanted to try just one more shot of the Bloody Mare to ease just a little of the pain, not too much at the very least. You turn around to leave but you stop to find Applejack standing at the entrance of the barn, she had a shot full of a bright red drink, The Bloody Mare. "AJ, is that bloody mare?" "Wah yes, you want it?" "Sure, but obviously there's a catch, so whachu want?" "Well all ah want, is a kiss." Your eyes widen and shrink at AJ, wager. You think long and hard, you just stood there , another stale mate, one that would change your life forever. After a few minutes, you came up with a simple answer. "No" you say in a flat tone. "What was that sugarcutie?" "No" "Good answer." AJ walks over to you, she hands the drink to you, you politely take it, AJ does nothing, no kissing, no personal touches, no nothing. But as you held the drink in hand, you couldn't help but think about Fiddlesticks. "Well whats taking you so long sugar cube? The drink is yours." You softly chuckle to yourself as AJ raised an eyebrow, you slowly pour down the Bloody Mare to the floor contaminating it and making it undrinkable. AJ couldn't help but give a shocking reaction to your choice. "I just figured I don't need it. Alcohol won't ease my pain, but the only thing that will, is myself. Thanks for making me realize that AJ." "No problem sugar cube." AJ said as she walked away. Now was the time, to wait. Author's Note Who wants a Epilogue? Short chapter I know. Sue me... Epilogue4 Years Later It has been four years since you've last seen Fiddlesticks, you've kept the necklace she has given you all these years, though being made of wood, it would rot. Luckily one of Applejack's friends Twilight Sparkle, cast a spell on it to prevent any damage and to keep the memories and promise that you made. Applejack had gotten herself a coltfriend, his name was Caramel, a hood hard working pony, almost like the brother you've never had. You wake up to the sound of knocking coming from your door. You raise from your bed and walk towards the door, you turn the knob to find Applebloom and her friends at the door. All of the crusaders had sad looks on their faces, as if they lost a game or competition, but it wasn't because of that. "Strum, It's time, please get your guitar Clef, she loves that song you made." Applebloom said as she and her friends walk away and outside. You listen to AB's words and grab Clef, strap him on and go outside to follow the crusaders. The four of you walk up to a tall hill, there on the top of the hill, you find Big Mac, Winowna, Caramel, and Applejack all with sad looks on their faces. Near all of you, laid a single tombstone, with engravings on them. You read the tombstone and smile for the happy soul. Here Lies Granny Smith Apple Loving mother figure, and founder of Ponyville May She rest her soul in Faust's realm All of you come in close to Granny Smith's grave, you all collide hands and give a moment of silence. After the silence AJ faces towards you and nods. You nodded back and pull out Clef and started to strum your guitar and sing your song. "Time of your life." But unfortunately without a violin the song sounds vague but decent for her grave. But before you start playing, you face towards AJ with a sly grin on your face. "AJ how about you sing the song, you sing it better than I do." AJ nods back to you and clears her throat for the best pony in Equestira. [Edit, the previous video here was unavaible from Foxy lee's channel. So I replaced it with from Foxy archive's channel.] After you finish your song, you all head back to the farmhouse, all except you. You stayed at Granny Smith's grave, you reach into your pocket and pull out a watch, not just a watch a pocket watch, not just a pocket watch but Granny Smith's pocket watch. You take the watch and place it on Granny Smith's grave. "Hello Granny Smith, It's been a long time since I've seen you. Since you made Zap apple jam, since you considered me family, but I just wanted to say one thing. Thank you, without you, I wouldn't have a home, food, or a special somepony to think about. I don't know how I can thank you, but eventually Faust will take me and I can speak with you once again. Goodbye." You turn to leave as you travel back towards the farm house. As your walking your eye caught witness of a young mare who was wallowing in tears, It was Applebloom, figures, she was more connected to Granny Smith than any pony in Ponyville. You wanted to comfort her, you walked towards the sobbing mare, you place a hand on her shoulder and smiled. AB looked up and wiped the tears away from her face. "Sorry it's just-" "Applebloom, it's okay, you'll see her again. Infact, without you, we couldn't have Zap apple jam. I mean AJ couldn't learn, Big Mac couldn't learn, but you did, your a learner and a quick one too, I mean it's in your cutie mark." You said as you point at her apple flower cutie mark. "AB, Granny may be gone, but to me, it's like she's standing right in front of me." Applebloom, stop crying, she wiped more tears away from her face and smiled back at you. "Thank you Strum." "No problem." Suddenly you were interrupted by a tapping on your shoulder, you turn to see a gray pegasus mare with a letter in her hand. "Are you Strum?" "Yes, and you are?" "My name is Ditzy, local mail carrier, but any who, I have a letter for you, all the way from Manehatten from some mare by name of Fiddlesticks." Your eyes widen as you swiftly swipe the letter from the mare's hand. You reach into your pocket and pull out a few bits and tip the mailmare. She thanked you for your generosity and leaves. You take seat at a nearby hay bale and open up the letter, there you find a small letter. Dear Strum, It's me Fiddlesticks, guess what, I talked to my parents and well, I will tell you about that later. To cut to the chase I'm visiting Ponyville tomorrow hope to see you soon. Also, I figured that you and Clef are having some fun without me and Pluck, so wait up for us and we'll do a duet. From your marefriend, Fiddlesticks You were happy, to see Fiddlesticks again after so long. You reached down your shirt and pull out the same base clef necklace from Fiddlesticks. You held it tight as you would never forget the promise you made. The next day You woke up to the sound of knocking on your door, you get up from your bed to answer it. You open the door to find AJ standing in front of you. "Wah hi sugar cube, we ahtta get ready for Fiddlesticks' arrival." "Yea, I'll there in a bit, just let me take a shower and clean Clef, she wanted to do a jam session later." "Ah right sugar cube." AJ turned to leaved, you went back inside your room and grabbed a few items, a guitar pick, Clef, and a new hat AJ picked out for you, a black colored box cap, it was stylish since Applejack's friend Rarity made it. You take your items place them on your bed, making a set. You take some extra clothes and head off into the shower for an oasis of hot water. After you take your shower, you apply on a towel to hide your... object and proceed into your room, you put on the cloths, the hat, place the pick in your pocket and strap on Clef. You head outside and patiently wait for your special somepony. You awaited seconds, minutes, hours, but no sign of Fiddlesticks, you began to doubt the note you received the other day, but you stay loyal to Fiddlesticks and await for her arrival. After a few more hours, Luna's moon had risen, it was almost midnight and you began to loose hope, but still loyal to Fiddlesticks, to pass the time you decide to play your song with your companion Clef. You bring out clef to your laps and start playing time of your life. 0:00- you begin to play your guitar as you think about the only pony in your mind. As you play you couldn't help but shed a few tears as you played Clef. Applejack, Applebloom, and Big Mac couldn't help but watch at your sadness, but it was best for them to leave you alone. 1:24- Suddenly you hear the sounds of a sweet and slick violin with a twist of love. You turn around as you keep playing and singing to find Fiddlesticks standing proudly with Pluck by her shoulder. As you started to play the end of the song, Fiddlesticks stands there with a smile and tears of her face. As you two end the song of your lives, Fiddlesticks runs up to you and gives you the hug of Celestia. She sobbed on your shoulder, she couldn't resist, you were finally there for her, and she was there for you. "I'm sorry." she said. "My cab got a broken wheel and long story short, I got late. I'm so sorry." You hug her even tighter, you began to shed a few tears, nearby the AJ and the others couldn't help but d'awwww at your lovely moment with your special somepony. "Don't worry Fiddlesticks, I forgive you, as long as your here, than I don't care." You break the hug and replace it with a kiss more blissful than Luna's moon. The two of you kissed until your hearts content, for what seemed like hours but only a few minutes, the two of you break the kiss.. "So, what was that you wanted to tell me in person?" "Well first, wheres my promise?" "Right here." You said as you pull out a undamaged, unscratched, clean wooden carved base clef pendant necklace, the one that Fiddlesticks gave you all those years ago. You take it off your neck and place it around Fiddlesticks', you've now closed off the promise that you made. "Now that I finished my end of the promise, what did you wanted to tell me in person?" "Well, my mother and father decided for me to move one and chase you, I can finally be with you forever!" She beamed with joy as she announced the news of light upon your soul. You both kiss again, as you congratulate her and yourself as the two of you now had a song of life. FIN Bonus Chapter2 Years ago "Fiddlesticks that was marvelous performance, Manehatten will know you quite well within it's heart. Tell me what inspired you to take this step?" "I...uh...I don't know" The yellow mare scratched her chin. "I guess somepony told me that I should follow my dreams to become like Octavia." Fiddlesticks answered as she walked pass fans of black, white, and red objects halting her path. She walked down the streets of Manehatten carrying Pluck as she waved over to her fans as they waved, screamed, squealed, fainted, all things a fan would do. She walked down the streets as she heard the familiar tunes of a guitar, she followed the gentle music and found a red stallion playing a familiar song. "Um excuse me." The stallion stopped strumming in surprise as he turned his head to find a Fiddlesticks with an eyebrow raised and a smug grin across her face. His face became flabbergasted as the famous violinist was standing in front of him. "Woh, h-h-hello Fiddlesticks. Wow it's an honor!" "Yes, one question though. Where did you learn that song?" "Oh well there was this one stallion from Ponyville that taught me this awesome song." Fiddlesticks' eyes began to widen from the statement, which stallion was he talking about? "Who taught you this song and what is it called?" "Well the song is called 'Time of Your Life' and the stallion by the name of Strum is my teacher. He taught me how to play guitar and eventually this song." Fiddlesticks' eyes widened at the name, she had never forgotten the stallion that she had fallen in love with. She was in complete shock, it has been two years since their last meet at the Apple family reunion. She placed a hand on the stallion's shoulder and smiled at him with grace "Thank you, thank you so much. I want you to do something for me, would you like to play with me at my next show?" The stallion's face turned shocked as the celebrity mare asked him to perform...with a celebrity...dayuum. "I-I-I-I'm Speechless, W-Why? Why me Fiddlesticks? I'm just a low class performer in the streets." "Because, you remind me of somepony and I would love to play that song with my fiddle." "Of....Of course, It will be an honor! And just so you know, my name is Red Note, you don't have to introduce your name, all of Manehatten already knows who you are." "Thank you, please come over to the theater tomorrow night with your guitar." "Right, me and Chord will be here." "I assume that that's your guitar's name." She predicted with a smirk "Yep, now I must go, so that I can practice for the big show." The stallion stated as he got up, placed his guitar in his case, picked it up and bowed to Fiddlesticks in thanks. "Again thank you so much, you don't know how much this means to me." "You are welcome." The yellow mare said with a wink as the stallion ran off jumping for joy. The next night had come, Fiddlesticks was in her green room as a knock came from her door. She opened it to find her younger sister Babs Seed with a greeting smile across her face. "Heya sis, how goes the violin stuff?" She said as she entered the room and sat on the couch. "Oh it's going great, I recently met a stallion with a familiar song." "Oh yea? who?" "His name was Red Note, he plays a guitar and to my surprise, he know's his song." "Wait, that one song from two years ago? That song was tight, it was awesome." "I'm sure he would thank you for that compliment." The butter mare let out a soft sigh as she gazed into a blank state. "I sure miss him." "Yea so do I, don't worry I'm sure you'll see each other again." "Thanks sis, now you aught'a get home, mom and dad would be tempered." "Yea yea I'm goin I'm goin." The brown foal said as she walked out the door and outside towards the apple farm. Fiddlesticks sat in front of her mirror as she looked at herself, what she had become. Another knock came from her door, she grunted heavily as she stomped towards the door. "Ugh, how many times must I tell Babs not to try and disobey mother and father." She opened it to find the familiar red stallion from the streets with his guitar. "Oh it's you again Red Note, did you need something?" asked Fiddlesticks "Oh well... I was wondering... did you and Strum have some sort of relationship?" Fiddlesticks let out a heavy sigh as she lowered her head. "Yes, please do come in I have quite a story to tell you." She said as the red stallion walked inside the green room, he sat down on the couch and pulled out Chord from his case, he started to pluck the stings to get the right tunes. "Now Strum and I...we were special. 2 years ago I met him on my family reunion, now he wasn't family blood, but he was family on the inside. My cousin Applejack took him in and raised him as one of our own, he was special with a guitar. When I met him at the reunion, my heart burst like watermelon. After a few chats, blasts, and glasses of cider, we eventually fell in love. But when the reunion was over I had to leave him, he told me to always follow my dreams, let nothing stop me. So I became an expertise, I mastered my fiddle Pluck and we became the 3rd greatest violinist in Manehatten, we even got to play a duet with Octavia, it was spectacular, though I still didn't feel complete, like it wasn't my real dream. So the years passed and I became better, faster, stronger within my fiddle. But I never forgot about him, I still hope he remembers me." Fiddlesticks explained as she let out a small sigh escaping her lungs. "He does." Red Note said as he placed his guitar down and stood up. "W-What do you mean?" "He does remember you, when he first taught me guitar he mentioned a mare that he loved, that he cared for. She played the fiddle like an angle's harp, she wanted to chase her dreams, she wanted to be known. Strum had always carried around a necklace, it was a wooden bass clef necklace that he carried day and night. I asked him why and he said, "Because I made a promise to a special somepony." Red Note said imitating as Strum. "I never bothered to ask him anything else. He cared for you so much, that I saw him cry once over the necklace, I think I heard him say "I miss you." and I swear i thought he was insane for a second, but I couldn't complain." Fiddlesticks started to quiver her lips and dam her eyes as she couldn't believe what she heard, he still loves her, she still loves him, Faust accepted their heart of song. Red Note walked towards the mare and place a hard on her shoulder. "He still loves you, don't forget that." The stallion said as she slumped back on the couch leaving Fiddlesticks ready to burst. "Let it out, you need it." Fiddle sticks did just that and knelt to the floor covering her face from tears of happiness and joy, after a few minutes of weeping, she stood up, wiped her eyes with her hands and stood proud trying to not shed a tear. "Thank you Red Note. Thank you so much." "Anything for my teacher, he saved me, so it's time I save him for a shattering moment." "Yes." The sound of foot steps came from Fiddlesticks' door as a pony with a clipboard and box cap came in. "Miss Fiddlesticks, the show is almost up, is this the stallion you spoke of?" The stage hand asked as she pointed towards Red Note. "Yes." Answered Fiddlesticks. "Please tell the crowd we will be ready in a few minutes." The stage hand nodded as she walked towards the stage, Fiddlesticks turned to the stallion with a warming smile. "Please play his song, and I'll do the rest." "O-Okay, again thank you for this opportunity." "And thank you for the message. Now let's go on stage." The stallion nodded as they both took their string instruments and took to the stage. The two musicians were on stage, lights shun at their faces as fans cheered in joy and glee. Fiddlesticks stood close to the fans as she grabbed the microphone. "Helloooo ponies of Manehatten, tonight I have a special performance for you all. I met a certain stallion today with a beautiful song, please welcome Red Note." Fiddlesticks introduced as Red Not took to the front of the stage with his guitar in hands. "We are going to play a special song, now before we play who here has had a great life so far?" Everypony cheered with mix answers. "I'm just going to assume yes, now this song speaks out to me and I hope the rest of ya'll. Fillies and Gentlecolts this is 'Time of Your Life." Fiddlesticks announced as the crowd cheered, the two musicians both took out stools to sit upon, Fiddlesticks had Pluck, and Red Note had Chord, Red Note was the first to start as Fiddlesticks gave him the microphone. The song ended, the crowd cheered, as they screamed in joy of the glorious song that was sung. Both musicians stood from their stools and bowed to the crowd as they gave their final cheer. Fiddlesticks took the microphone and waved towards the crowd. "Thank you everypony, please thank Red Note for that marvelous song." The crowd cheered as they cheered Red Note's name, as for Red Note he started to tear and he nearly lost grip of his guitar. Fiddlesticks giggled to herself as she looked at the teared stallion with a smirk. "Crying?" The stallion sniffed as he wiped his tear away. "N-No it's just... liquid pride." The stallion said as he shed a second tear. The two string musicians took a final bow as they walked backstage, as they walked towards the green room, Red Note breathed heavily as he started to sweat. "Faust, that was amazing and nerve racking as hay, I never felt so alive." "Yep, now let's go back to the room and rest." The two entered their room as Fiddlesticks sat on her chair and slumped back having her head hang past the back of her chair and letting her hair hang loose. "I haven't played like that in two years." She brought he head back up and stared at Red Note who was frozen sitting up on the couch. "You okay?" Asked Fiddlesticks as she raised an eyebrow. "I-I-I-I I just played a show with Fiddlesticks...THE Fiddlesticks, I-I-I" The stallion couldn't finish as he rolled his eyes back and slumped on the couch. "Uh...Red Note?" Nothing came from the stallion. "Did you just faint?" Still nothing, Fiddlesticks chortled as she reached into her mini fridge and pulled out two bottles of cold water, she took one and walked towards the unconscious Red Note. She uncapped the bottle and slowly poured the water on his head. The stallion shot up breathing heavily as he felt the cold, icy sensation hit his brain. "UWAHA? What happened?" "You fainted, now here's some water to help ya calm down." Fiddlesticks said as she gave Red Node the used water bottle. "Thanks, but I just still can't believe it." "Your telling me." Another voice came as both musicians looked to find a a grey stallion with a black tuxedo and shades. "That was an excellent performance." Red Note shot up in surprise as his face became flabbergasted in surprise. "Holy name of Celestia, your Golden Record, your the best producer in all of Equestria. What are you doing here?" asked Red Note as his jaw dropped like an anvil. "Well I was passing by in my chariot when i heard that wonderful song, I listened to the rest and I was amazed. I want to make you two famous across all over Equestria." Gold took out a piece of paper and a pen. "Now sign here for a life of fame and fortune." Fiddlesticks' face was blank, this was her golden opportunity, but she felt strange. She felt, empty on the inside. I-I don't know. Don't But I- NO This isn't your real dream, it's not a dream you want. Remember him, he still loves you and misses you H-How could I- "Now are you going to sign or what?" "I would have to decline." Said Red Note. "I play for the love of music, plus I don't want to be all over Equestria, Manehatten my hometown and my town to feed music to." "Understandable, and what about you Fiddlesticks?" "N...No." "Well, I offer you an olive branch, and now you decline. I respect your decision." Gold placed the contract and pen back into his tux and bowed towards the musicians. "I bid you two adieu." The stallion said as he walked out of the green room. The stallion stared at Fiddlesticks feeling flabbergasted more than ever. "B-B-But I thought being famous was your dream!" "No, my true dream is a future without fame or fortune, it is a dream with Strum." The red stallion let out a long sigh as he smiled towards the mare. "Oh I see, well what are you going to do now?" "Hm..... can you write a letter to Strum?" You wake up to the sound of a knock on your window. You walked up towards the window and open it to find the local mailmare Ditzy Doo with a letter in her mouth. "Hello Ditzy, what brings you to my window?" "I havph maarrphh phhr phruu." You take the letter out of her mouth and take out a few bits and place it on Ditzy's hand. "There you go Ditzy, go buy yourself a muffin." She gracefully takes your bits and places it into her bag. "Thanks, now I gotta go. seeya!" The gray pegasus said as she flew off into the distance. You slowly opened the letter and to your surprise, it's a letter that you thought was too early. Dear Strum- It's me Red Note, I'm doing great back in my hometown. And I have a surprise for you, I met Fiddlesticks, both played your song and she cried. I told her your true feelings for her and she burst into tears, and we were also asked to be associated with Golden Record. We both declined, I declined because I didn't want to travel, I love Manehatten for it's night views and people. Fiddlesticks declined because she wants a dream, a dream with you in it. Hope this makes you feel better. -From your student, Red Note You let out a soft sigh as you place the note on the table. "Thank you Red Note, Thank you." You gaze upon the necklace Fiddlesticks gave you and gaze put towards your window and towards the sky. Author's Note Hope you liked this bonus chapter, I wrote this when I got bored and had nothing to think about on my new stories. I literally posted this at like 4 am in the morning, yea so if you find any errors... thats why. Several Years LaterAuthor's Note Listen, I know it has been literally like 4 years since I've last updated this story, but I've had this empty chapter in my storage for 3 years straight. I've never gotten around to it because I could never decide if I wanted to make an additional chapter for it or not. But here it is, enjoy! Several Years Later You sat there on my bed with Clef on your lap. You were plucking his strings and adjusting his wires to see if he was in tune. The day was young and new with Celestia's sun slowly peaking over the horizon. It had been several years since Fiddlesticks came back into your life, and you couldn't be any more happier. You walked downstairs after finished tuning Clef to find your family all there at the breakfast table. Your great boss and almost sister Applejack along with Caramel, a great brother like role model Big Macintosh with his wife Cheerilee, a good little sister Applebloom, and the good spirit known as Winowna. But the best part of my family, was your beautiful wife Fiddlesticks along with your daughter Serene Beat. Or Apple Beat as Applebloom likes to call her. "Good mornin everpony." You say as they all gave you a smile. "Morning honey, breakfast is served." Fiddlesticks said as you take in the smell of all the goodies on the table. The sweet smell of baked apple goods and pancakes filled your nostrils and pressed the 'pleasure' button in your nose and tongue. You sat down at the table with everypony and began digging into the feast. "Daddy. After breakfast can you hear my song and see if its good?" "Of course sweetie." You turn to Fiddlesticks. "Hun you wanna join us?" "Sure why not?" After breakfast you, your wife, and your daughter all walked out with your instruments. You had your trust guitar Clef, Fiddle had her...well...fiddle Pluck, and Apple Chord had her own instrument, her voice. You all sat down by a small campsite (no fire unfortunately) as you got your instruments ready. Before you could even play soon more of the family join in. Cheerilee, Mac, and AJ all brought a gorgeously glossy black piano for Cheerilee to play, who knew she knew how to play? Applebloom stood next Apple Chord. "I don't think you'll need your guitar daddy." Your daughter said as you shrugged and placed Clef by your side. Apple Chord and Applebloom cleared their throats as Cheerilee started playing. After your daughter's song you couldn't help but shed a tear (and pride) at your daughter's performance. She had the voice of an angel and you be less manly than to give you daughter a big hug. "That's a wonderful song sweetie." "Yea, ya got yourself a song that could inspire generations across the nation!" Applebloom commented making her little cousin blush. "Yea, it could be a hit!" Applejack commented making her little niece blush even more. You couldn't help but chuckle a little bit, your daughter with the voice of an angel. Fiddlesticks soon sat next to you and planted her head against your shoulder. He soft sigh was a sign that she was also happy. "Y'know something honey?" "What's up hun?" She reached over and pecked your cheek. She then gazed upon your daughter who was gaining small fame from the rest of the family. "I know this may sound a bit cheesy, but she's the best song we've ever produced." She said with a soft smooth tone. You could't help but snicker and chuckle a little bit at her claim. You then placed your arm around Fiddlesticks and squeeze her in closer to you. You give a good long sigh as you thought about all you had. A beautiful wife and child, a great family, and great friends as well. You didn't care about the past. Your present to yourself, is the present for yourself. "Yea, you're right. She is our greatest song." Chapter 3Two Strings Attached Chapter 3 You follow Fiddlesticks into the barn with a small smirk on her face. What could she be planning? The two of you walk up to the barn, she places a hand on the door and opens it. She grabs your hand and pulls you into the barn, inside you find that Applejack, Big Mac, and a few other older ponies were drinking small amounts of what looked like glowing blood, from one barrel of Cider that was labeled, Bloody Mare. Fiddlesticks drags you to the barrel of cider, around you, you find several other ponies that looked dead, only with 2 shots of that stuff, what the hay is in there, poison? You get up close to the barrel, next to it you find Big Mac, and Applejack serving that stuff with mischievous looks on their face. "Um, what is this?" You said pointing at the Bloody Mare. Applejack was the first to answer. "Wah this is the Bloody Mare. This is the most intoxicating cider we've ever made, more intoxicating than zap apple cider. We only serve this on special occasions, and on top of that, only the average pony can survive 2 shots without passing out, we wanna see since your new family and all, we wanna see how many shots you can survive." AJ explained Fiddlesticks gives a nod towards Big Mac as he pulled out three empty shot glasses. He turned the barrel's valve and poured glowing red cider into all three glasses. He hands you one. You take a sniff, man it smells stronger than Applejack's whiskey. "What's it made of?" you ask. "Every single kind of apple, red delicious, red galas, zap apples, granny smiths, all of the apples you can think of into one brew. Nah if were you, Ah'd take it." You gulp and grab one glass. "Well....Bottom's up." Without hesitation, you quickly gulped down the Bloody Mare, you instantly feel a shock towards your whole body, you always feel buzzed. "Woh, hang on.....just....wow. It's tasty but....there's no words to explain how that much can already make you feel buzzed." The two mares giggled at your reaction while Big Mac had a smug on his face. "Round two." announced Big Mac as he handed you the second glass of Bloody Mare. You slowly take it from Big Mac's hand and you gulp it down, and after a few seconds, everything becomes black. You try to resist it, but give in and fall on the floor. Inside your brain is telling you to give up, but now your heart is saying one more time. You slowly open your eyes, all three cowponies are shocked that you still stand awake. You stand up, but slump over a few times, eventually you finally straighten up, you swipe the glass and without hesitation immediately gulp it down. You feel like you're going to die, everything fades to black and you immediately fall to the floor out cold, the other ponies clapped at your performance. AJ had a small smirk on her face. "Now's my chance" AJ said. The next morning You slowly open your eyes to find yourself in a pile of hay, you look around to find several ponies out cold, almost like they're dead. You slowly get up and stretch your arms out, my god how tired you are. You look to the hay bed you slept on and there you find AJ happily sleeping like a foal, she was smiling, that doesn't look like a good sign. Suddenly you hear the sounds of an angel messing with the strings of an oasis. You walk out of the barn and find nopony but Fiddlesticks' sitting on a cider barrel, in front of a fire with a kettle boiling over it, she was playing her fiddle, but something seemed different about it. You walk closer but hidden from her eyes as she was in her zone, you notice what looked like a scratch on Fiddlesticks' fiddle, but your vision was so foggy you couldn't help but see a blur. Fiddlesticks' symphony was amazing, her strokes her gentle but swift, and her butter colored body was amazing. As she finished, he come out of hiding and approach her. She quickly turned around to find you standing there with a smile on your face, you couldn't be sure but you could have sworn you saw a blush on her face. You wave your hand in greet but you wobble around with a hangover. Fiddlesticks giggles at your sloppiness and walks over to assist you, she carries your arm over your shoulder and places you down against the barrel in front of the fire. "I'm very surprised at you Strum." "Heh, well I guess I am in me, I've always....ugh" You pause as your stomach begins to bark a little. "...Sorry about that, anyways I'm surprised I haven't barfed ye.....URP!" You shut your mouth tight, Fiddlesticks giggles at your illness. "Bucket?" You quickly nod as she hands you a bucket, you plant your face into the bucket and let out a hose full of decay and foul liquid breath. Fiddlesticks burst into a wave of laughter as she looks as your embarrassed, you've never felt so embarrassed in your entire life. You finish you ugh...performance and you push away the bucket of puke. You felt some chill come down your back and lean in closer to the fire for warmth. You stare at the kettle over the fire, what's in there? "Hey Fiddlesticks what's in the kettle?" "Just some coffee, want some? I figured you needed some due to that hangover you have, and that-" She pauses and gives a soft giggle. "performance." "Sure I'd like some coffee, and what happened just now, is between you and me. By the way, what time is it?" "It's about five in the morning, on family reunions we have brunch at about 9 am." "Okay, and remember about what just happened." you remind "What just happened?" She joked "Good job." you compliment Fiddlesticks giggled as she took out two mugs and poured fresh brewed coffee in both and handed you one. You take the mug but your hand rapidly shook, as you are shaking, you slowly drink the coffee, boosted with energy and caffeine, you feel more calm and less shaky. Fiddlesticks scooches over next to you and rests her head on your shoulder, you feel your heart skip a beat. "Uhh Fiddlesticks, what are you doing?" "Trying to woo you." "Wait what?" What is she doing? "Let me be honest with you, I like you, your cute, funny, and you play a string instrument. That's mighty great, and I think I'm in love with you." "Well uh...I like you too." you said. Fiddlesticks leaned in closer to your face, she puckered up her lips. You liked her, but you wanted to be polite. You put your hand in front of her lips stopping her kiss, she pulls back and raises an eyebrow in confusion. "Look Fiddlesticks, I like you but, let's take things slow, I don't wanna get bucked in the face by hundreds of Apple stallions." "Okay, but for now, can I snuggle with you." You shrugged your shoulders. "Why the hay not?" Fiddlesticks places down her fiddle and rests on top of your legs in front of the fire. The two of you, felt peaceful, though still with a hangover, you drift off to sleep with Fiddlesticks on your legs. After several hours of hungover sleep, you woke up to find that the whole Apple family was setting up a massive brunch, they had, apple pie, cake, caramel apples, apple juice, apple cobblers, brown betties, apple sauce, deep fried apples, and the best part, apple fritters. You look around to find that Fiddlesticks had disappeared from your lap, you stand up feeling much better than before and walk around. You wanted to help but didn't know where to start. "Hey you." You turn around, but you find nothing, you turn your head back and start to walk. "Down here." You turn around again and look down to find a brown filly with a short red mane. "Are you Strum?" she asks curiously "Why yes, and who are you little filly?" "My name's Babs Seed, my sister Fiddlesticks is talking all about you, if you're looking for her, she's frying up some fritters. Man she picked a handsome Stallion." she cooed "Uh... eh heh heh, thanks, but shouldn't you be playing with the other fillies?" "I was just about too." She blows on her mane and walks away, she finds Applebloom and runs towards her. The two fillies walk and talk together, they're gone. You look away from the two fillies and began the search for Fiddlesticks. You walk over to a tall stand that had plates full of apple fritters. You walk up towards the fritters and gave a big wiff. Man they smelled better than the MMMM cake the Cakes had made. You wanted to take just one, even though it was rude, you just couldn't resist. You reach out your hand towards the plate full of fritter, you were close to home base. *THWAP* "OW!" You scream in pain as your hand blisters from being whacked at. You looked over to your left to find Fiddlesticks with a frown on her face and a rolling pin in her hand. "What'd you do that for?" you said as you whimpered in pain as the your hand turned slightly purple. "You were going to take an apple fritter!" "But I got hungry." You whine "Well that doesn't matter, you have to wait like the rest of the family." "Okay." You give up unwillingly, no choice but to wait. "So, your sister Babs Seed, told me that you might need some help frying some fritters." "Oh that silly filly always thinks I need help, but with you around of course." She offers a wink and you return the payment by frying fritters. After you and Fiddlesticks fry up all of the apple fritters, you bring them to the food table. Soon everypony sits down at their tables and Applejack gets up with a megaphone in her hand. She help the megaphone up to her mouth with an announcement. "Attention Apple family, today is the last day of the reunion, now c'mon Apple family, let's celebrate with a brunch, after brunch we will partake in a special event, everypony will enjoy. Now let's chow down." Everypony (Including you) cheered as they grabbed their plates and headed towards the table full of food. You grabbed as much as you could and sat down at a nearby table, Fiddlesticks soon joined you but she had more food than you, man, this mare's got a stomach of a dragon. Fiddlesticks gives you a quick peck on the cheeks, you gave her a smirk and pecked her back. The two of you chowed down on your food like timber wolves. Two cowponies sat at the opposite end of your table, Fiddlesticks stopped eating and froze up at the two ponies. "Mom, Dad." Fiddlesticks said in a nervous tone "Hello dear, is something the matter?" asked the Fiddlesticks mom, Red Gala "Yes honey is something wrong?" asked her dad Stud *Gulp* "Uhh Mom, Dad, I'd like you to meet my new coltfriend, Strum." The two ponies lean over to you and give an icy glare at you, they looked around you at different directions, and they looked at different qualities of you, like you were being examined. The Father of Fiddlesticks leaned in closer to you, he put out his hand in arm wrestling position. "Well, show me watchu got boy." *gulp* You take out your hand and grasp it with Stud's hand. Fiddlesticks' mom got up and placed her hand on top of both your's and Stud's hand. "Okay boys you know the rules, once I let go you start. Ready?" Stud nods as well as you. "Okay boys, 1, 2, 3, wrestle!" Red Gala lets go of her hand and the two of you use all of your mighty stallion strength to push forwards victory. You both have had close calls, Stud almost won, you almost one, eventually it became a stalemate. You are nearly reaching your limit, not only you but Stud as well. You, couldn't let your new reputation go to rust, so you pull out whatever adrenaline you have in your body and concentrate it into your harm, and with all your might, you slam Stud's hand flat on the table. His eyes widened at his defeat, you gasp for air as you've never done that before. Fiddlesticks run's towards you and gives you a congratulatory hug. You got up from the table and reach out your hand to the defeated stallion. "Good game sir." The stallion gets up from the table and continues with his icy glare. He collides his hand with yours and shakes it with a hearty laugh. "Bwahahahaha, I haven't been beaten in years!" He wraps your head around his arm and announces to the whole family. "Oi This no blood, ain't half bad, he beat me in ahm wrestlin!" The whole family stands from there table and cheers on for your victory. Fiddlesticks runs up to you and gives you a victory kiss on the lips. You widen your eyes at the surprise but you close them and kiss back Fiddlesticks in celebration of a new friendship. Fiddlesticks' parents couldn't do anything but smile at the new couple. You break the kiss and help Fiddlesticks close. "I love you Fiddlesticks." "And I love you too Strum."
Chapter 1Two Strings Attached Chapter 1 You wake up to the sounds of apple bucking and conversations nearby your room. You get up from your bed and open the door to find Applejack with a nervous grin on her face. "Hey AJ whats up?" "Oh good it's you, Ah been looking for you, can we talk?" "Shoot, missy." "Well, in 3 days there's going to be a celebration mah whole entire family has, it's the Apple Family Reunion." You don't really recall an Apple family reunion but, it doesn't bother you one bit. "Ah was wonder'in if you wanted to help us git ready for the festival. Wanna help out sugarcube?" "Uh...Sure! Why not?" Applejack's ear's perked up at your answer, she gave a confused look at you. "Whaa? Ya sure sugar cuge? It's gonna be a lot of work." "Eh... I like some good hard work, anyways, when do we start?" you asked "First thing tomorrow, and be ready for some hard time." Applejack said as she went downstairs. You've been always available to help out the Apple family, they took you in when you were homeless, all you had was a guitar but you made no money with it. You've been happily working for the Apple Family, they gave you a roof to sleep under and food to eat, all in all, you were happy the way things are. You go back into your room, you wanted to get some sleep to get ready for tomorrow morning, but before that you wanted to practice your song. You pick up your guitar and sat on your bed, you started to pluck your strings to get the right tune. "Alright now where was I?" You started strummed at your guitar, getting the right G's E's and D notes, you started to hum the lyrics since you knew what they were in your head." "-A Lesson learned in Time". The Lyrics were coming to your head like a buck from Applejack, but just one part. "-through what it's worth, it was worth all the.. the... aw damn... can't think." You place your guitar down and lied down on your bed. "It'll come to me, it always does." You predicted as you drift off to sleep. You slowly opened your eyes as he hear a rapid knocking at your door. You get up and slowly open the door, in front of you, you find that there was nopony there. You begin to close the door as it was stopped. "Hey you, down here!" You look down to find that Applebloom, Applejack's little sister, was with her friends Sweetiebelle and Scootaloo. "Oh hey there Applebloom, you still doing that crusading of yours?" "Yea, but that's not why we're here, Applejack need's your help with the eastern orchard to help buck some trees." "Okay, tell AJ that I'll be down there. Gotta grab some stuff real quick." "Okay, we'll see ya later." Applebloom said as as she and her friends zoomed off screaming. "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS! YEA!!!". Your ears rung as you heard the three fillies announce their name for like the babillionth time. "Ugh... my ears." You rub your ears in ease and head outside towards the eastern orchard. On your way you happen to pass by Granny Smith, Appljack's grandmother. "Hello Miss Smith." "Why hello deary, oh I'm sorry to trouble you but can you help for a little while?" She asked "Sure. Watcha need?" "Well I was walking around zap apple orchards, I was checking on the tree since it was almost Zap apple season, but when I was going back I realized I dropped my old pocket watch there. If you wouldn't mind deary, if you pass by those orchards, can you look for my watch please?" "Sure Miss Smith, I'll be sure to look around." "Thank you deary." She said as you two separated into opposite direction. You walked the rest of the trail towards the eastern orchard, at the end you find Applejack bucking some apples off of trees and into some baskets. Applejack had a small crush on you, you highly knew of it but was not interested. She always tries to coo you but, strength isn't your style. You walk up to her to give her a hand. "Hey AJ, Applebloom said that you needed some help bucking some trees, is that right? "Wah sure cutie." Oh how much you despise that name. You gave a small frown as Applejack giggled at your annoyance. "Sorry sugarcube couldn't help myself. But ya, c'mon and help me out with the trees, we ah gonna make some good old fashion fritters for the family." "Alright let's get to work." You and Applejack spent almost 2 hours clearing out the eastern orchard, you started to sweat but you don't mind, hard work for a hard pony. You load in the last batch of apples into the cart, you place the collar around you neck and start pulling as Applejack started to follow. As you two walk back to the farm, you, she tried to get in close to you but you politely reject her. "AJ how many times to I have to tell you, I'm not interested, I'm sorry if I'm breaking your heart but you just need to move on." "Ah know that sugarcutie." ... No comment you thought in your head. "But it's just that ah can't help it, your just to darn cute, I could buck you." Your eyes widened at that one compliment. "W....What?" You said in fear "I meant buck as in kick. Ah didn't mean it that way." She huffed as she faced away from you. "Still both ways are strange, so what else needs to be done?" "Well Big Mac needs some help chopping fire wood, after this you could help him." "Aight." The two of you finish moving the apple, You head off to the barn to help Big Macintosh, Applejack's brother, chop wood. You say your goodbyes to Applejack, she said goodbye blowing a kiss to you, oh how much you immensely despise Applejack's flattering. You make your way through the orchard and onto the barn, there you find Big Mac chopping firewood, and behind him a large pill of chopped firewood. "Hey Big Mac, need a hand?" "Eeyup." Big Mac hand's you a large ax, the two you chop firewood till the Celestia's sun set and Luna's moon rose. The two of you finished chopping as much wood and head back to the farmhouse to grab dinner. On your way there Big Mac's face expression hasn't changed, it was the still flat poker face you always saw. "Ah heard that you rejected mah sister again." He said in a cold tone. Here we go. You thought. "Yes, look Mac, I know you care for your sister and all but, like I said for like the millionth time, I'm just not interested." "Ah know that, to be honest, I don't know how to stop it. But if you find nopony that's your type and you've run out of options then you have my permission to go with her." The two of you reach the farm house just in time for supper. You eat to your heart's content until you couldn't feed the beast within you any longer. You go upstairs to catch some sleep, tomorrow morning was your day off since you weren't really Apple family blood. You open the door an on your bed you find a single rose and a note attached to one of it's thorns. You pick up the note to find- Dear Sugarcutie I think since you have the day off an all, that you should come celebrate the family reunion with us, even though your not Apple family blood I thing of you as honorary family. Also enjoy the rose, I got it from Roseluck, she says that it's the best to get a stallion. From your boss- AJ You think it over whether to attend the family reunion, AJ did have a point, you were considered family to her and her siblings. The only thing that irritated you was the rose, "please kill me now" say to yourself as you threw away the note and pick up your guitar. "Alright now what can that last word be." You begin to strum the same song over and over again, but what you couldn't find is the last word to the song. It's been plaguing your mind for months now, but you couldn't find the last word for the song. You place your guitar down and get on with some sleep, after all you decided that you were going to that reunion.
Chapter 2Two Strings Attached Chapter 2 You slowly wake up to the sound of... wait a minute...nothing? Strange enough you wake up to the sound of nothing, it was silent, normally you'd hear apple bucking, screaming, or even a sonic rainboom from the one and only Rainbow Dash, but it was quiet...to quiet. You hear some movement coming from under your sheets next to you. You quickly remove your sheets to find that Applejack, your boss was sleeping next to you. You were complete shock, what the hay did she do? But you were going to react in a calm and pleasant manner. "AAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! AJ!?" Yea... so much for calm. Applejack shot her eyes open and was dazed, she looked to you a giggled with a lustful look in her eyes. *Gulp* She crawled over to your face trying to kiss you but you stop her lips with your hand, oh Celestia, please banish me to the moon you thought. "AJ, What the HAY are you doing in my bed!?" "Wah Ah just like you Sugarcube." "OUT NOW!!!" You pick up Applejack and tried to push her out of your room, she struggles back as she wanted to stay with you. When you finally got her out of your room, you quickly lock the door and slump to the floor both hands hiding your face. "Ughh. Note to self, lock the door, every time you go to sleep." Noted You quickly got up and take a hot shower, you put on your usual cloths and head out to the barn to have a quick talk with somepony. You walk over to the barn, looking around you find Big Mac taking a nap on a nearby tree, you approach Big Mac and tap him on the shoulder waking him up. "Big Mac, we needa talk." "Shoot pardner." "Well..." You slowly and carefully explain to Big Mac, as well as avoiding a punch or a trip to the hospital. "And so all I'm asking is, can you please talk to her, I've tried reasoning, demanding, and begging, but nothing works, please tell her to stop." Big Mac had an icy glare on you, your back felt a shrivel down to the waist. "Well I hafta admit, I'm a bit shocked mahself that mah sister would do something like this, but since it wasn't your fault entirely, I'll talk some sense into her." "Thanks Big Mac" Things still felt quiet, and strange. "Hey Big Mac why is it so quiet?" "Almost time." "Almost time for wha-" You were interrupted as the ground started to rumble. Was it an earthquake? You look over to Big Mac who was completely calm and had a small grin on his face. "Big Mac, what's going on?" "Time for the reunion." You look over to the road and suddenly about thousands of ponies came galloping over to Sweet Apple Acres, all of them going "Yee haw" and all, god you didn't know what was worse, the yeehawing or the CMC yelling out their name. "Welp, see you later, I gotta catch up with some family." Big Mac got up from the log and walked over to the whole family of Apples. You tried to find something to do but you didn't want to bother nopony with catching up, you go into the farm house to grab something to pass the time. You enter your room carefully to avoid AJ, no sign of her, you look around the room and you grab your guitar. You take your guitar and take the strap and place it over your shoulder. You walk outside to see everypony chatting, laughing, and having fun. You didn't want to bother them one bit. You find a nearby log bench that's a few yards away from the crowd, you started to play your song till your fingers turn purple. As you continuously play the verse you were stopped by a the sudden sounds of a violin. You turn your head to find a yellow butter mare with a sapphire blue mane with a knot tied at the end, she was...pretty. You were the first to speak. "Hey, what's up?" "Nothin, who are you? I don't recall you here last time I visited Applejack." "Name's Strum," You stick out your hand to greet her. "Yours?" "Fiddlesticks," She reaches out your hand and shakes it in welcome. "but you haven't answered my question, who are you really?" "Well, like I said, my name's Strum, and If your wondering, I'm not really Apple blood. What happened was-" 2 Years Ago Applejack along with the CMC was walking along the road towards the western orchards. "Thanks big sis for having my friends come along to help buck some trees." Applebloom gleamed "No problem Applebloom, always available for some help." The four ponies walked along the bath until they found something...strange. "Hey Applejack, is that blood?" Scootaloo pointed to a dry dark red spot that looked like a trail towards a nearby apple tree. "I think I see somepony." "Yea who is that?" asked Sweetiebelle The three fillies ran over to the strange figure, he had a guitar strapped to his back but was breathing heavily. Applejack soon followed along and examined the pony. He had a a few bruises on his head and blood escaping from his mouth. Applejack quickly ran close to the stallion she knelt down and held up his head, he was bleeding little from his mouth and nose. Applejack froze up to looking at his face. Gosh DARN it he's cute. Applejack thought, but now wasn't the time for that, now's the time for aid. She picked up the stallion and hurried over to the farmhouse, the CMC followed her hoping to have their cutie marks in life saving. The stallion was in the guest bed, resting his beaten body. The Apple Family (along with the CMC) was outside the room chattering. "So what should we do with him?" asked Applebloom "Ah think we should wait till he wakes up." suggested Applejack "Eeyup" Followed Big Mac. Applejack came into the guest room, she found the stallion still unconscious on the bed. She sat next to him, she placed her hand on his forehead. "Temperature's normal, not sick but, what happened to you?" You slowly wake up but still blinded what happened, you open your eyes, you look around to find you are in a bed and room. You look to your right to bind a orange mare with a blonde mane and a brown stetson hat. Your head still ached over what happened last night. "Hey, your awake. Finally, who are you?" You struggle but you manage to say your name. "S-S-Strum...where am I?" You said in a weak voice. "Wah your in Sweet Apple Acres, and we found ya bleedin to death near one of mah trees. What happened to you, and why'd you get so banged up?" "Well, to tell you the truth, I'm homeless, and some stallion beat me up b'cause I couldn't find a job and they were sick of me begging for food and bits." "Wah if ah find those stallions, I buck em towards Luna's moon." You chuckled at the mare's gesture. "Heh thanks, but who are you?" "Name's Applejack, proud owner of Sweet Apple Acres." "Why are you helping a poor pony like me?" "Wah nopony should be like this, Noopony. Your welcome to stay as long as you want, your only payment, hard labor." You nod at the suggestion and Applejack walks out of the room. 1 Year Later You have been working for Applejack your new boss to have a roof to sleep under and food to be filled. You were bucking some apple trees and loading the cart. AJ walked up to you with what looked like that she had something hidden behind her back. You raise an eyebrow wondering what AJ was hiding. "Wha hi they Sugarcutie." Please stop with the nicknames PLEASE!!! "I got something for you." She pulls out what looked to be two shining tickets, they shun and glimmered like they were made with gold. You take the tickets and read them, no surprise you reaction was predicted to Applejack. "TWO TICKETS TO THE GRAND GALLOPING GALA!?!? HOW'D YOU GET THESE!?!?" "Well, mah friend is a real good friend of Princess Celestia, I was wonderin since I have two tickets, wanna go on a date with me?" *Gulp* It was either be tortured for the entire night at Canterlot, or go to the biggest event in all of Equestria. You had a tough choice. "let me think about it AJ, when is the gala?" "It's in 3 days." "Hmmmm." You walk away with a disease plaguing your mind. "I guess I can go... eh buck it, I'll go, see what the Gala's all about." You and AJ come back from the gala, problem is your running away from AJ who tried to kiss you at the gala, thank Celestia Pinkie Pie had caused a distraction making your escape. You quickly run to your room and lock the door blocking AJ's path. "Ah'll getcha one day." she giggles as she walks away. "Ah'll getcha." There was silence, she was gone. You gave out a heavy sigh take off your fancy smanshy clothes and slump on the bed, you think about what's going to happen tomorrow, if your going to survive AJ's lust. The Present "And after a few more months, Applejack thought it be a great idea for me to become family, so I gracefully accepted and yea, here I am." you conclude. "Interesting, why don't you enjoy yourself with your cousin in laws?" "Eh.... I don't really want to be a bother, plus I just like to play with old Clef here." "Clef? You mean that guitar of yours?" She pointed at your oak wooden guitar, on the body of the guitar was carved a name Clef. "Yea, it's name is Clef, why? Don't you have a name for your fiddle?" "No, not really." "Well maybe you can give it a name, how long has it been with you?" "Well, pretty much all my life." "Well, maybe you can think of a name, a special name for your instrument." "Why should I?" "Well, think of it this way, that fiddle has been with you all your life. An instrument is like a best friend, something that means something to your life, for example Clef has been with me all my life, like a friend." "Hmmm, that is very true, I can think of a name later." "It's alright, anyways I got a quick question for ya." Fiddlesticks raised an eyebrow. "Out of all the cousins here, who's your favorite?" "Oh that's easy, It's Big Mac." Fiddlesticks stared down at your guitar. "So you good?" "Yea, I'm alright. Wanna jam?" "Wah sure, I've been looking for somepony to have a duet with." "I've notice that you don't use your family accent that much." "Yes, that's true, I have always tried to talk like the famous Octavia with her cello." "Well, chase that dream. But anyways, I'll play a song and you follow up. Sound good?" You play the song that you called "Time of your life." Fiddlesticks added some fiddle to the song, the two of you were flawless, soon everpony, and you mean everypony, started to circle around the two of you, hoof started tapping, rhythm was created, and the song, well that was the problem, you forgot about it it's been a while....wait....'while', you got it. 1:10- "For what it's worth, It was worth all the while. It's something unpredictable but in the end it's right, I hope you had the time of your life." As you end off the song, everypony gives a round of applause and most throw their hat's in the air. "That was appmazing." One pony horribly punned. "Let's celebrate with some cider!" Another pony suggested. Everypony cheered at the cider suggestion and ran towards the barrels full of cider. After hours and hours and HOURS, of drinking, laughing, and chatting, everypony had a great time. Some of the Apple family wanted to meet you and welcome you to the family, you shared your story, while leaving out the Applejack parts, and they gladly consider you an Apple. You finally had a family you're willing to have. You continue to play "Time of your life" as young fillies and colts circle around you in awe, but was interrupted when you felt a tap on your shoulder. You stop strumming and turn around to find Fiddlesticks with a mug full of cider in her hand, she gestures her hand to follow her into the barn. You strap on Clef, and follow Fiddlesticks into the barn, what could she be planning? Author's Note Time of Your Life(Good Riddance) belongs to Green Day. Video/ lyric video belongs to aad0dl on youtube.
Chapter 4Two Strings Attached Chapter 4 You were standing proudly in the middle of the entire Apple family as they cheered on towards your victory. Fiddlesticks was besides you still hugging you in your victory against her dad. After a few more hours of partying, eating, and one more glass of the Bloody Mare, you finally deserve some rest. Luna's moon had risen, and you were resting on your favorite spot on the farm, a hill with a great view of the orchards. Fiddlesticks was rested on your lap, almost as if she was sleeping on your lap. You were resting yourself against an apple tree that you picked, planted, and named on top of the hill, Bukington. Your night with Fiddlesticks was perfect. "Hey Fiddlesticks." "Hmm?" "I was wondering, when you played you fiddle this morning, I noticed that I saw what looked like carving on your violin. Care to explain?" "Well, I took your idea of giving my fiddle a name, so I did and I carved it on my fiddle. Thanks by the way." She smiles and gives a peck on your lips. "Your welcome, what's his or her's name?" "Well it's a she, I named her Pluck." "Pluck, hmm... nice name, why'd you give her that name?" "Because I always love to pluck her strings before I play her." "It's a nice name, good job." "Thanks" The two of you wanted to get some sleep, but not on some tree, a nice and comfy bed. The two of you exit your favorite spot and walk through the zap apple orchards. As the two of you were walking through the orchards, you see a tiny flash coming from one of the tree. Is that fire? You and Fiddlesticks walk over to the nearby tree, and find that an object was laying on the ground near the tree. "What is that?" Fiddlesticks asked "Hey that's-" The next morning came, it was probably going to be the worst morning of your life, it was the day Fiddlesticks was going home. You find Fiddlesticks packing up her wagon along with her family. You wanted to say your final goodbyes to her as you two wouldn't see each other for a long time. You walk towards Fiddlesticks, she had tears in her eyes, as she sees you, she hugs and a bawls allover your shoulder. You hug her back to comfort her, you start to tear up a little, you were going to miss her. The two of you break your hug of depression, you look her in the eyes. "Guess this is goodbye." you said "Yep." "Don't worry, you'll see me again, I know it." "I hope I will." Fiddlesticks pulls out a necklace, it was made with yarn and it's pendant was a small wooden carving of a bass clef. "Promise me that when I see you again, you'll give this back." You take the necklace from her hands and immediately wear it. "I promise." Fiddlesticks' father walks by both of you, he places a hand on Fiddlesticks' shoulder. "Cmon honey, It's time to go home. It's time to say your goodbyes, Babs and mother are waiting." Her father then walks over to the wagon to be ready for departure. The two of you held each other close, you looked each other closely in the eyes. Fiddlesticks leans forward and kisses you on the lips. You return the kiss as you pull her in for a more passionate kiss. She breaks up the kiss, and slowly walks towards her wagon and sits inside the tent wagon. As her father starts to pull the wagon, she becomes smaller and smaller until she was gone. You couldn't help but hold on to the base clef necklace you received, there wasn't anything to do left but to play the waiting game. Granny Smith walks over to you and places a hand over your shoulder. "It's okay deary, You'll see her again soon enough." She said as she starts to walk away, but you forgot to do something, you place a hand on her shoulder to stop her. She turns to you with an eyebrow raised. "Yes deary?" You reach into your pocket and pull out a golden pocket watch, you place it on Granny Smith's hand. Her eyes widened as you return her pocket watch. "Thank you deary, I'll reward you one day, you'll see." She said as she walked back towards the farm house. You also wanted to go back to the farm house, but before that you wanted to go for one more ride, at the barn. You walk towards the barn, there you find the same barrel of Bloody Mare labeled on it. You walk up to the barrel, you knock on the barrel. Empty You wanted to try just one more shot of the Bloody Mare to ease just a little of the pain, not too much at the very least. You turn around to leave but you stop to find Applejack standing at the entrance of the barn, she had a shot full of a bright red drink, The Bloody Mare. "AJ, is that bloody mare?" "Wah yes, you want it?" "Sure, but obviously there's a catch, so whachu want?" "Well all ah want, is a kiss." Your eyes widen and shrink at AJ, wager. You think long and hard, you just stood there , another stale mate, one that would change your life forever. After a few minutes, you came up with a simple answer. "No" you say in a flat tone. "What was that sugarcutie?" "No" "Good answer." AJ walks over to you, she hands the drink to you, you politely take it, AJ does nothing, no kissing, no personal touches, no nothing. But as you held the drink in hand, you couldn't help but think about Fiddlesticks. "Well whats taking you so long sugar cube? The drink is yours." You softly chuckle to yourself as AJ raised an eyebrow, you slowly pour down the Bloody Mare to the floor contaminating it and making it undrinkable. AJ couldn't help but give a shocking reaction to your choice. "I just figured I don't need it. Alcohol won't ease my pain, but the only thing that will, is myself. Thanks for making me realize that AJ." "No problem sugar cube." AJ said as she walked away. Now was the time, to wait. Author's Note Who wants a Epilogue? Short chapter I know. Sue me...
Epilogue4 Years Later It has been four years since you've last seen Fiddlesticks, you've kept the necklace she has given you all these years, though being made of wood, it would rot. Luckily one of Applejack's friends Twilight Sparkle, cast a spell on it to prevent any damage and to keep the memories and promise that you made. Applejack had gotten herself a coltfriend, his name was Caramel, a hood hard working pony, almost like the brother you've never had. You wake up to the sound of knocking coming from your door. You raise from your bed and walk towards the door, you turn the knob to find Applebloom and her friends at the door. All of the crusaders had sad looks on their faces, as if they lost a game or competition, but it wasn't because of that. "Strum, It's time, please get your guitar Clef, she loves that song you made." Applebloom said as she and her friends walk away and outside. You listen to AB's words and grab Clef, strap him on and go outside to follow the crusaders. The four of you walk up to a tall hill, there on the top of the hill, you find Big Mac, Winowna, Caramel, and Applejack all with sad looks on their faces. Near all of you, laid a single tombstone, with engravings on them. You read the tombstone and smile for the happy soul. Here Lies Granny Smith Apple Loving mother figure, and founder of Ponyville May She rest her soul in Faust's realm All of you come in close to Granny Smith's grave, you all collide hands and give a moment of silence. After the silence AJ faces towards you and nods. You nodded back and pull out Clef and started to strum your guitar and sing your song. "Time of your life." But unfortunately without a violin the song sounds vague but decent for her grave. But before you start playing, you face towards AJ with a sly grin on your face. "AJ how about you sing the song, you sing it better than I do." AJ nods back to you and clears her throat for the best pony in Equestira. [Edit, the previous video here was unavaible from Foxy lee's channel. So I replaced it with from Foxy archive's channel.] After you finish your song, you all head back to the farmhouse, all except you. You stayed at Granny Smith's grave, you reach into your pocket and pull out a watch, not just a watch a pocket watch, not just a pocket watch but Granny Smith's pocket watch. You take the watch and place it on Granny Smith's grave. "Hello Granny Smith, It's been a long time since I've seen you. Since you made Zap apple jam, since you considered me family, but I just wanted to say one thing. Thank you, without you, I wouldn't have a home, food, or a special somepony to think about. I don't know how I can thank you, but eventually Faust will take me and I can speak with you once again. Goodbye." You turn to leave as you travel back towards the farm house. As your walking your eye caught witness of a young mare who was wallowing in tears, It was Applebloom, figures, she was more connected to Granny Smith than any pony in Ponyville. You wanted to comfort her, you walked towards the sobbing mare, you place a hand on her shoulder and smiled. AB looked up and wiped the tears away from her face. "Sorry it's just-" "Applebloom, it's okay, you'll see her again. Infact, without you, we couldn't have Zap apple jam. I mean AJ couldn't learn, Big Mac couldn't learn, but you did, your a learner and a quick one too, I mean it's in your cutie mark." You said as you point at her apple flower cutie mark. "AB, Granny may be gone, but to me, it's like she's standing right in front of me." Applebloom, stop crying, she wiped more tears away from her face and smiled back at you. "Thank you Strum." "No problem." Suddenly you were interrupted by a tapping on your shoulder, you turn to see a gray pegasus mare with a letter in her hand. "Are you Strum?" "Yes, and you are?" "My name is Ditzy, local mail carrier, but any who, I have a letter for you, all the way from Manehatten from some mare by name of Fiddlesticks." Your eyes widen as you swiftly swipe the letter from the mare's hand. You reach into your pocket and pull out a few bits and tip the mailmare. She thanked you for your generosity and leaves. You take seat at a nearby hay bale and open up the letter, there you find a small letter. Dear Strum, It's me Fiddlesticks, guess what, I talked to my parents and well, I will tell you about that later. To cut to the chase I'm visiting Ponyville tomorrow hope to see you soon. Also, I figured that you and Clef are having some fun without me and Pluck, so wait up for us and we'll do a duet. From your marefriend, Fiddlesticks You were happy, to see Fiddlesticks again after so long. You reached down your shirt and pull out the same base clef necklace from Fiddlesticks. You held it tight as you would never forget the promise you made. The next day You woke up to the sound of knocking on your door, you get up from your bed to answer it. You open the door to find AJ standing in front of you. "Wah hi sugar cube, we ahtta get ready for Fiddlesticks' arrival." "Yea, I'll there in a bit, just let me take a shower and clean Clef, she wanted to do a jam session later." "Ah right sugar cube." AJ turned to leaved, you went back inside your room and grabbed a few items, a guitar pick, Clef, and a new hat AJ picked out for you, a black colored box cap, it was stylish since Applejack's friend Rarity made it. You take your items place them on your bed, making a set. You take some extra clothes and head off into the shower for an oasis of hot water. After you take your shower, you apply on a towel to hide your... object and proceed into your room, you put on the cloths, the hat, place the pick in your pocket and strap on Clef. You head outside and patiently wait for your special somepony. You awaited seconds, minutes, hours, but no sign of Fiddlesticks, you began to doubt the note you received the other day, but you stay loyal to Fiddlesticks and await for her arrival. After a few more hours, Luna's moon had risen, it was almost midnight and you began to loose hope, but still loyal to Fiddlesticks, to pass the time you decide to play your song with your companion Clef. You bring out clef to your laps and start playing time of your life. 0:00- you begin to play your guitar as you think about the only pony in your mind. As you play you couldn't help but shed a few tears as you played Clef. Applejack, Applebloom, and Big Mac couldn't help but watch at your sadness, but it was best for them to leave you alone. 1:24- Suddenly you hear the sounds of a sweet and slick violin with a twist of love. You turn around as you keep playing and singing to find Fiddlesticks standing proudly with Pluck by her shoulder. As you started to play the end of the song, Fiddlesticks stands there with a smile and tears of her face. As you two end the song of your lives, Fiddlesticks runs up to you and gives you the hug of Celestia. She sobbed on your shoulder, she couldn't resist, you were finally there for her, and she was there for you. "I'm sorry." she said. "My cab got a broken wheel and long story short, I got late. I'm so sorry." You hug her even tighter, you began to shed a few tears, nearby the AJ and the others couldn't help but d'awwww at your lovely moment with your special somepony. "Don't worry Fiddlesticks, I forgive you, as long as your here, than I don't care." You break the hug and replace it with a kiss more blissful than Luna's moon. The two of you kissed until your hearts content, for what seemed like hours but only a few minutes, the two of you break the kiss.. "So, what was that you wanted to tell me in person?" "Well first, wheres my promise?" "Right here." You said as you pull out a undamaged, unscratched, clean wooden carved base clef pendant necklace, the one that Fiddlesticks gave you all those years ago. You take it off your neck and place it around Fiddlesticks', you've now closed off the promise that you made. "Now that I finished my end of the promise, what did you wanted to tell me in person?" "Well, my mother and father decided for me to move one and chase you, I can finally be with you forever!" She beamed with joy as she announced the news of light upon your soul. You both kiss again, as you congratulate her and yourself as the two of you now had a song of life. FIN
Bonus Chapter2 Years ago "Fiddlesticks that was marvelous performance, Manehatten will know you quite well within it's heart. Tell me what inspired you to take this step?" "I...uh...I don't know" The yellow mare scratched her chin. "I guess somepony told me that I should follow my dreams to become like Octavia." Fiddlesticks answered as she walked pass fans of black, white, and red objects halting her path. She walked down the streets of Manehatten carrying Pluck as she waved over to her fans as they waved, screamed, squealed, fainted, all things a fan would do. She walked down the streets as she heard the familiar tunes of a guitar, she followed the gentle music and found a red stallion playing a familiar song. "Um excuse me." The stallion stopped strumming in surprise as he turned his head to find a Fiddlesticks with an eyebrow raised and a smug grin across her face. His face became flabbergasted as the famous violinist was standing in front of him. "Woh, h-h-hello Fiddlesticks. Wow it's an honor!" "Yes, one question though. Where did you learn that song?" "Oh well there was this one stallion from Ponyville that taught me this awesome song." Fiddlesticks' eyes began to widen from the statement, which stallion was he talking about? "Who taught you this song and what is it called?" "Well the song is called 'Time of Your Life' and the stallion by the name of Strum is my teacher. He taught me how to play guitar and eventually this song." Fiddlesticks' eyes widened at the name, she had never forgotten the stallion that she had fallen in love with. She was in complete shock, it has been two years since their last meet at the Apple family reunion. She placed a hand on the stallion's shoulder and smiled at him with grace "Thank you, thank you so much. I want you to do something for me, would you like to play with me at my next show?" The stallion's face turned shocked as the celebrity mare asked him to perform...with a celebrity...dayuum. "I-I-I-I'm Speechless, W-Why? Why me Fiddlesticks? I'm just a low class performer in the streets." "Because, you remind me of somepony and I would love to play that song with my fiddle." "Of....Of course, It will be an honor! And just so you know, my name is Red Note, you don't have to introduce your name, all of Manehatten already knows who you are." "Thank you, please come over to the theater tomorrow night with your guitar." "Right, me and Chord will be here." "I assume that that's your guitar's name." She predicted with a smirk "Yep, now I must go, so that I can practice for the big show." The stallion stated as he got up, placed his guitar in his case, picked it up and bowed to Fiddlesticks in thanks. "Again thank you so much, you don't know how much this means to me." "You are welcome." The yellow mare said with a wink as the stallion ran off jumping for joy. The next night had come, Fiddlesticks was in her green room as a knock came from her door. She opened it to find her younger sister Babs Seed with a greeting smile across her face. "Heya sis, how goes the violin stuff?" She said as she entered the room and sat on the couch. "Oh it's going great, I recently met a stallion with a familiar song." "Oh yea? who?" "His name was Red Note, he plays a guitar and to my surprise, he know's his song." "Wait, that one song from two years ago? That song was tight, it was awesome." "I'm sure he would thank you for that compliment." The butter mare let out a soft sigh as she gazed into a blank state. "I sure miss him." "Yea so do I, don't worry I'm sure you'll see each other again." "Thanks sis, now you aught'a get home, mom and dad would be tempered." "Yea yea I'm goin I'm goin." The brown foal said as she walked out the door and outside towards the apple farm. Fiddlesticks sat in front of her mirror as she looked at herself, what she had become. Another knock came from her door, she grunted heavily as she stomped towards the door. "Ugh, how many times must I tell Babs not to try and disobey mother and father." She opened it to find the familiar red stallion from the streets with his guitar. "Oh it's you again Red Note, did you need something?" asked Fiddlesticks "Oh well... I was wondering... did you and Strum have some sort of relationship?" Fiddlesticks let out a heavy sigh as she lowered her head. "Yes, please do come in I have quite a story to tell you." She said as the red stallion walked inside the green room, he sat down on the couch and pulled out Chord from his case, he started to pluck the stings to get the right tunes. "Now Strum and I...we were special. 2 years ago I met him on my family reunion, now he wasn't family blood, but he was family on the inside. My cousin Applejack took him in and raised him as one of our own, he was special with a guitar. When I met him at the reunion, my heart burst like watermelon. After a few chats, blasts, and glasses of cider, we eventually fell in love. But when the reunion was over I had to leave him, he told me to always follow my dreams, let nothing stop me. So I became an expertise, I mastered my fiddle Pluck and we became the 3rd greatest violinist in Manehatten, we even got to play a duet with Octavia, it was spectacular, though I still didn't feel complete, like it wasn't my real dream. So the years passed and I became better, faster, stronger within my fiddle. But I never forgot about him, I still hope he remembers me." Fiddlesticks explained as she let out a small sigh escaping her lungs. "He does." Red Note said as he placed his guitar down and stood up. "W-What do you mean?" "He does remember you, when he first taught me guitar he mentioned a mare that he loved, that he cared for. She played the fiddle like an angle's harp, she wanted to chase her dreams, she wanted to be known. Strum had always carried around a necklace, it was a wooden bass clef necklace that he carried day and night. I asked him why and he said, "Because I made a promise to a special somepony." Red Note said imitating as Strum. "I never bothered to ask him anything else. He cared for you so much, that I saw him cry once over the necklace, I think I heard him say "I miss you." and I swear i thought he was insane for a second, but I couldn't complain." Fiddlesticks started to quiver her lips and dam her eyes as she couldn't believe what she heard, he still loves her, she still loves him, Faust accepted their heart of song. Red Note walked towards the mare and place a hard on her shoulder. "He still loves you, don't forget that." The stallion said as she slumped back on the couch leaving Fiddlesticks ready to burst. "Let it out, you need it." Fiddle sticks did just that and knelt to the floor covering her face from tears of happiness and joy, after a few minutes of weeping, she stood up, wiped her eyes with her hands and stood proud trying to not shed a tear. "Thank you Red Note. Thank you so much." "Anything for my teacher, he saved me, so it's time I save him for a shattering moment." "Yes." The sound of foot steps came from Fiddlesticks' door as a pony with a clipboard and box cap came in. "Miss Fiddlesticks, the show is almost up, is this the stallion you spoke of?" The stage hand asked as she pointed towards Red Note. "Yes." Answered Fiddlesticks. "Please tell the crowd we will be ready in a few minutes." The stage hand nodded as she walked towards the stage, Fiddlesticks turned to the stallion with a warming smile. "Please play his song, and I'll do the rest." "O-Okay, again thank you for this opportunity." "And thank you for the message. Now let's go on stage." The stallion nodded as they both took their string instruments and took to the stage. The two musicians were on stage, lights shun at their faces as fans cheered in joy and glee. Fiddlesticks stood close to the fans as she grabbed the microphone. "Helloooo ponies of Manehatten, tonight I have a special performance for you all. I met a certain stallion today with a beautiful song, please welcome Red Note." Fiddlesticks introduced as Red Not took to the front of the stage with his guitar in hands. "We are going to play a special song, now before we play who here has had a great life so far?" Everypony cheered with mix answers. "I'm just going to assume yes, now this song speaks out to me and I hope the rest of ya'll. Fillies and Gentlecolts this is 'Time of Your Life." Fiddlesticks announced as the crowd cheered, the two musicians both took out stools to sit upon, Fiddlesticks had Pluck, and Red Note had Chord, Red Note was the first to start as Fiddlesticks gave him the microphone. The song ended, the crowd cheered, as they screamed in joy of the glorious song that was sung. Both musicians stood from their stools and bowed to the crowd as they gave their final cheer. Fiddlesticks took the microphone and waved towards the crowd. "Thank you everypony, please thank Red Note for that marvelous song." The crowd cheered as they cheered Red Note's name, as for Red Note he started to tear and he nearly lost grip of his guitar. Fiddlesticks giggled to herself as she looked at the teared stallion with a smirk. "Crying?" The stallion sniffed as he wiped his tear away. "N-No it's just... liquid pride." The stallion said as he shed a second tear. The two string musicians took a final bow as they walked backstage, as they walked towards the green room, Red Note breathed heavily as he started to sweat. "Faust, that was amazing and nerve racking as hay, I never felt so alive." "Yep, now let's go back to the room and rest." The two entered their room as Fiddlesticks sat on her chair and slumped back having her head hang past the back of her chair and letting her hair hang loose. "I haven't played like that in two years." She brought he head back up and stared at Red Note who was frozen sitting up on the couch. "You okay?" Asked Fiddlesticks as she raised an eyebrow. "I-I-I-I I just played a show with Fiddlesticks...THE Fiddlesticks, I-I-I" The stallion couldn't finish as he rolled his eyes back and slumped on the couch. "Uh...Red Note?" Nothing came from the stallion. "Did you just faint?" Still nothing, Fiddlesticks chortled as she reached into her mini fridge and pulled out two bottles of cold water, she took one and walked towards the unconscious Red Note. She uncapped the bottle and slowly poured the water on his head. The stallion shot up breathing heavily as he felt the cold, icy sensation hit his brain. "UWAHA? What happened?" "You fainted, now here's some water to help ya calm down." Fiddlesticks said as she gave Red Node the used water bottle. "Thanks, but I just still can't believe it." "Your telling me." Another voice came as both musicians looked to find a a grey stallion with a black tuxedo and shades. "That was an excellent performance." Red Note shot up in surprise as his face became flabbergasted in surprise. "Holy name of Celestia, your Golden Record, your the best producer in all of Equestria. What are you doing here?" asked Red Note as his jaw dropped like an anvil. "Well I was passing by in my chariot when i heard that wonderful song, I listened to the rest and I was amazed. I want to make you two famous across all over Equestria." Gold took out a piece of paper and a pen. "Now sign here for a life of fame and fortune." Fiddlesticks' face was blank, this was her golden opportunity, but she felt strange. She felt, empty on the inside. I-I don't know. Don't But I- NO This isn't your real dream, it's not a dream you want. Remember him, he still loves you and misses you H-How could I- "Now are you going to sign or what?" "I would have to decline." Said Red Note. "I play for the love of music, plus I don't want to be all over Equestria, Manehatten my hometown and my town to feed music to." "Understandable, and what about you Fiddlesticks?" "N...No." "Well, I offer you an olive branch, and now you decline. I respect your decision." Gold placed the contract and pen back into his tux and bowed towards the musicians. "I bid you two adieu." The stallion said as he walked out of the green room. The stallion stared at Fiddlesticks feeling flabbergasted more than ever. "B-B-But I thought being famous was your dream!" "No, my true dream is a future without fame or fortune, it is a dream with Strum." The red stallion let out a long sigh as he smiled towards the mare. "Oh I see, well what are you going to do now?" "Hm..... can you write a letter to Strum?" You wake up to the sound of a knock on your window. You walked up towards the window and open it to find the local mailmare Ditzy Doo with a letter in her mouth. "Hello Ditzy, what brings you to my window?" "I havph maarrphh phhr phruu." You take the letter out of her mouth and take out a few bits and place it on Ditzy's hand. "There you go Ditzy, go buy yourself a muffin." She gracefully takes your bits and places it into her bag. "Thanks, now I gotta go. seeya!" The gray pegasus said as she flew off into the distance. You slowly opened the letter and to your surprise, it's a letter that you thought was too early. Dear Strum- It's me Red Note, I'm doing great back in my hometown. And I have a surprise for you, I met Fiddlesticks, both played your song and she cried. I told her your true feelings for her and she burst into tears, and we were also asked to be associated with Golden Record. We both declined, I declined because I didn't want to travel, I love Manehatten for it's night views and people. Fiddlesticks declined because she wants a dream, a dream with you in it. Hope this makes you feel better. -From your student, Red Note You let out a soft sigh as you place the note on the table. "Thank you Red Note, Thank you." You gaze upon the necklace Fiddlesticks gave you and gaze put towards your window and towards the sky. Author's Note Hope you liked this bonus chapter, I wrote this when I got bored and had nothing to think about on my new stories. I literally posted this at like 4 am in the morning, yea so if you find any errors... thats why.
Several Years LaterAuthor's Note Listen, I know it has been literally like 4 years since I've last updated this story, but I've had this empty chapter in my storage for 3 years straight. I've never gotten around to it because I could never decide if I wanted to make an additional chapter for it or not. But here it is, enjoy! Several Years Later You sat there on my bed with Clef on your lap. You were plucking his strings and adjusting his wires to see if he was in tune. The day was young and new with Celestia's sun slowly peaking over the horizon. It had been several years since Fiddlesticks came back into your life, and you couldn't be any more happier. You walked downstairs after finished tuning Clef to find your family all there at the breakfast table. Your great boss and almost sister Applejack along with Caramel, a great brother like role model Big Macintosh with his wife Cheerilee, a good little sister Applebloom, and the good spirit known as Winowna. But the best part of my family, was your beautiful wife Fiddlesticks along with your daughter Serene Beat. Or Apple Beat as Applebloom likes to call her. "Good mornin everpony." You say as they all gave you a smile. "Morning honey, breakfast is served." Fiddlesticks said as you take in the smell of all the goodies on the table. The sweet smell of baked apple goods and pancakes filled your nostrils and pressed the 'pleasure' button in your nose and tongue. You sat down at the table with everypony and began digging into the feast. "Daddy. After breakfast can you hear my song and see if its good?" "Of course sweetie." You turn to Fiddlesticks. "Hun you wanna join us?" "Sure why not?" After breakfast you, your wife, and your daughter all walked out with your instruments. You had your trust guitar Clef, Fiddle had her...well...fiddle Pluck, and Apple Chord had her own instrument, her voice. You all sat down by a small campsite (no fire unfortunately) as you got your instruments ready. Before you could even play soon more of the family join in. Cheerilee, Mac, and AJ all brought a gorgeously glossy black piano for Cheerilee to play, who knew she knew how to play? Applebloom stood next Apple Chord. "I don't think you'll need your guitar daddy." Your daughter said as you shrugged and placed Clef by your side. Apple Chord and Applebloom cleared their throats as Cheerilee started playing. After your daughter's song you couldn't help but shed a tear (and pride) at your daughter's performance. She had the voice of an angel and you be less manly than to give you daughter a big hug. "That's a wonderful song sweetie." "Yea, ya got yourself a song that could inspire generations across the nation!" Applebloom commented making her little cousin blush. "Yea, it could be a hit!" Applejack commented making her little niece blush even more. You couldn't help but chuckle a little bit, your daughter with the voice of an angel. Fiddlesticks soon sat next to you and planted her head against your shoulder. He soft sigh was a sign that she was also happy. "Y'know something honey?" "What's up hun?" She reached over and pecked your cheek. She then gazed upon your daughter who was gaining small fame from the rest of the family. "I know this may sound a bit cheesy, but she's the best song we've ever produced." She said with a soft smooth tone. You could't help but snicker and chuckle a little bit at her claim. You then placed your arm around Fiddlesticks and squeeze her in closer to you. You give a good long sigh as you thought about all you had. A beautiful wife and child, a great family, and great friends as well. You didn't care about the past. Your present to yourself, is the present for yourself. "Yea, you're right. She is our greatest song."
Chapter 3Two Strings Attached Chapter 3 You follow Fiddlesticks into the barn with a small smirk on her face. What could she be planning? The two of you walk up to the barn, she places a hand on the door and opens it. She grabs your hand and pulls you into the barn, inside you find that Applejack, Big Mac, and a few other older ponies were drinking small amounts of what looked like glowing blood, from one barrel of Cider that was labeled, Bloody Mare. Fiddlesticks drags you to the barrel of cider, around you, you find several other ponies that looked dead, only with 2 shots of that stuff, what the hay is in there, poison? You get up close to the barrel, next to it you find Big Mac, and Applejack serving that stuff with mischievous looks on their face. "Um, what is this?" You said pointing at the Bloody Mare. Applejack was the first to answer. "Wah this is the Bloody Mare. This is the most intoxicating cider we've ever made, more intoxicating than zap apple cider. We only serve this on special occasions, and on top of that, only the average pony can survive 2 shots without passing out, we wanna see since your new family and all, we wanna see how many shots you can survive." AJ explained Fiddlesticks gives a nod towards Big Mac as he pulled out three empty shot glasses. He turned the barrel's valve and poured glowing red cider into all three glasses. He hands you one. You take a sniff, man it smells stronger than Applejack's whiskey. "What's it made of?" you ask. "Every single kind of apple, red delicious, red galas, zap apples, granny smiths, all of the apples you can think of into one brew. Nah if were you, Ah'd take it." You gulp and grab one glass. "Well....Bottom's up." Without hesitation, you quickly gulped down the Bloody Mare, you instantly feel a shock towards your whole body, you always feel buzzed. "Woh, hang on.....just....wow. It's tasty but....there's no words to explain how that much can already make you feel buzzed." The two mares giggled at your reaction while Big Mac had a smug on his face. "Round two." announced Big Mac as he handed you the second glass of Bloody Mare. You slowly take it from Big Mac's hand and you gulp it down, and after a few seconds, everything becomes black. You try to resist it, but give in and fall on the floor. Inside your brain is telling you to give up, but now your heart is saying one more time. You slowly open your eyes, all three cowponies are shocked that you still stand awake. You stand up, but slump over a few times, eventually you finally straighten up, you swipe the glass and without hesitation immediately gulp it down. You feel like you're going to die, everything fades to black and you immediately fall to the floor out cold, the other ponies clapped at your performance. AJ had a small smirk on her face. "Now's my chance" AJ said. The next morning You slowly open your eyes to find yourself in a pile of hay, you look around to find several ponies out cold, almost like they're dead. You slowly get up and stretch your arms out, my god how tired you are. You look to the hay bed you slept on and there you find AJ happily sleeping like a foal, she was smiling, that doesn't look like a good sign. Suddenly you hear the sounds of an angel messing with the strings of an oasis. You walk out of the barn and find nopony but Fiddlesticks' sitting on a cider barrel, in front of a fire with a kettle boiling over it, she was playing her fiddle, but something seemed different about it. You walk closer but hidden from her eyes as she was in her zone, you notice what looked like a scratch on Fiddlesticks' fiddle, but your vision was so foggy you couldn't help but see a blur. Fiddlesticks' symphony was amazing, her strokes her gentle but swift, and her butter colored body was amazing. As she finished, he come out of hiding and approach her. She quickly turned around to find you standing there with a smile on your face, you couldn't be sure but you could have sworn you saw a blush on her face. You wave your hand in greet but you wobble around with a hangover. Fiddlesticks giggles at your sloppiness and walks over to assist you, she carries your arm over your shoulder and places you down against the barrel in front of the fire. "I'm very surprised at you Strum." "Heh, well I guess I am in me, I've always....ugh" You pause as your stomach begins to bark a little. "...Sorry about that, anyways I'm surprised I haven't barfed ye.....URP!" You shut your mouth tight, Fiddlesticks giggles at your illness. "Bucket?" You quickly nod as she hands you a bucket, you plant your face into the bucket and let out a hose full of decay and foul liquid breath. Fiddlesticks burst into a wave of laughter as she looks as your embarrassed, you've never felt so embarrassed in your entire life. You finish you ugh...performance and you push away the bucket of puke. You felt some chill come down your back and lean in closer to the fire for warmth. You stare at the kettle over the fire, what's in there? "Hey Fiddlesticks what's in the kettle?" "Just some coffee, want some? I figured you needed some due to that hangover you have, and that-" She pauses and gives a soft giggle. "performance." "Sure I'd like some coffee, and what happened just now, is between you and me. By the way, what time is it?" "It's about five in the morning, on family reunions we have brunch at about 9 am." "Okay, and remember about what just happened." you remind "What just happened?" She joked "Good job." you compliment Fiddlesticks giggled as she took out two mugs and poured fresh brewed coffee in both and handed you one. You take the mug but your hand rapidly shook, as you are shaking, you slowly drink the coffee, boosted with energy and caffeine, you feel more calm and less shaky. Fiddlesticks scooches over next to you and rests her head on your shoulder, you feel your heart skip a beat. "Uhh Fiddlesticks, what are you doing?" "Trying to woo you." "Wait what?" What is she doing? "Let me be honest with you, I like you, your cute, funny, and you play a string instrument. That's mighty great, and I think I'm in love with you." "Well uh...I like you too." you said. Fiddlesticks leaned in closer to your face, she puckered up her lips. You liked her, but you wanted to be polite. You put your hand in front of her lips stopping her kiss, she pulls back and raises an eyebrow in confusion. "Look Fiddlesticks, I like you but, let's take things slow, I don't wanna get bucked in the face by hundreds of Apple stallions." "Okay, but for now, can I snuggle with you." You shrugged your shoulders. "Why the hay not?" Fiddlesticks places down her fiddle and rests on top of your legs in front of the fire. The two of you, felt peaceful, though still with a hangover, you drift off to sleep with Fiddlesticks on your legs. After several hours of hungover sleep, you woke up to find that the whole Apple family was setting up a massive brunch, they had, apple pie, cake, caramel apples, apple juice, apple cobblers, brown betties, apple sauce, deep fried apples, and the best part, apple fritters. You look around to find that Fiddlesticks had disappeared from your lap, you stand up feeling much better than before and walk around. You wanted to help but didn't know where to start. "Hey you." You turn around, but you find nothing, you turn your head back and start to walk. "Down here." You turn around again and look down to find a brown filly with a short red mane. "Are you Strum?" she asks curiously "Why yes, and who are you little filly?" "My name's Babs Seed, my sister Fiddlesticks is talking all about you, if you're looking for her, she's frying up some fritters. Man she picked a handsome Stallion." she cooed "Uh... eh heh heh, thanks, but shouldn't you be playing with the other fillies?" "I was just about too." She blows on her mane and walks away, she finds Applebloom and runs towards her. The two fillies walk and talk together, they're gone. You look away from the two fillies and began the search for Fiddlesticks. You walk over to a tall stand that had plates full of apple fritters. You walk up towards the fritters and gave a big wiff. Man they smelled better than the MMMM cake the Cakes had made. You wanted to take just one, even though it was rude, you just couldn't resist. You reach out your hand towards the plate full of fritter, you were close to home base. *THWAP* "OW!" You scream in pain as your hand blisters from being whacked at. You looked over to your left to find Fiddlesticks with a frown on her face and a rolling pin in her hand. "What'd you do that for?" you said as you whimpered in pain as the your hand turned slightly purple. "You were going to take an apple fritter!" "But I got hungry." You whine "Well that doesn't matter, you have to wait like the rest of the family." "Okay." You give up unwillingly, no choice but to wait. "So, your sister Babs Seed, told me that you might need some help frying some fritters." "Oh that silly filly always thinks I need help, but with you around of course." She offers a wink and you return the payment by frying fritters. After you and Fiddlesticks fry up all of the apple fritters, you bring them to the food table. Soon everypony sits down at their tables and Applejack gets up with a megaphone in her hand. She help the megaphone up to her mouth with an announcement. "Attention Apple family, today is the last day of the reunion, now c'mon Apple family, let's celebrate with a brunch, after brunch we will partake in a special event, everypony will enjoy. Now let's chow down." Everypony (Including you) cheered as they grabbed their plates and headed towards the table full of food. You grabbed as much as you could and sat down at a nearby table, Fiddlesticks soon joined you but she had more food than you, man, this mare's got a stomach of a dragon. Fiddlesticks gives you a quick peck on the cheeks, you gave her a smirk and pecked her back. The two of you chowed down on your food like timber wolves. Two cowponies sat at the opposite end of your table, Fiddlesticks stopped eating and froze up at the two ponies. "Mom, Dad." Fiddlesticks said in a nervous tone "Hello dear, is something the matter?" asked the Fiddlesticks mom, Red Gala "Yes honey is something wrong?" asked her dad Stud *Gulp* "Uhh Mom, Dad, I'd like you to meet my new coltfriend, Strum." The two ponies lean over to you and give an icy glare at you, they looked around you at different directions, and they looked at different qualities of you, like you were being examined. The Father of Fiddlesticks leaned in closer to you, he put out his hand in arm wrestling position. "Well, show me watchu got boy." *gulp* You take out your hand and grasp it with Stud's hand. Fiddlesticks' mom got up and placed her hand on top of both your's and Stud's hand. "Okay boys you know the rules, once I let go you start. Ready?" Stud nods as well as you. "Okay boys, 1, 2, 3, wrestle!" Red Gala lets go of her hand and the two of you use all of your mighty stallion strength to push forwards victory. You both have had close calls, Stud almost won, you almost one, eventually it became a stalemate. You are nearly reaching your limit, not only you but Stud as well. You, couldn't let your new reputation go to rust, so you pull out whatever adrenaline you have in your body and concentrate it into your harm, and with all your might, you slam Stud's hand flat on the table. His eyes widened at his defeat, you gasp for air as you've never done that before. Fiddlesticks run's towards you and gives you a congratulatory hug. You got up from the table and reach out your hand to the defeated stallion. "Good game sir." The stallion gets up from the table and continues with his icy glare. He collides his hand with yours and shakes it with a hearty laugh. "Bwahahahaha, I haven't been beaten in years!" He wraps your head around his arm and announces to the whole family. "Oi This no blood, ain't half bad, he beat me in ahm wrestlin!" The whole family stands from there table and cheers on for your victory. Fiddlesticks runs up to you and gives you a victory kiss on the lips. You widen your eyes at the surprise but you close them and kiss back Fiddlesticks in celebration of a new friendship. Fiddlesticks' parents couldn't do anything but smile at the new couple. You break the kiss and help Fiddlesticks close. "I love you Fiddlesticks." "And I love you too Strum."
