Chapters As the Sun peaks over the horizon of the hills bordering Ponyville, Cheerilee wakes up to see Scootaloo still out cold. 'That running to school yesterday must of worn her out. I'll let her sleep while I prepare breakfast for us,' Cheerilee thinks.
It was only six o clock and Cheerilee knew she and Scootaloo would have plenty of time to get to school. Once she cleans herself up and gets her mane straightened out for the day, she makes her way down to the kitchen, starts to prepare some oatmeal with apples and cinnamon, a recipe she had been given from Apple Jack, and makes some coffee for herself as well as hot chocolate for Scootaloo. About half an hour goes by, and everything was ready to eat and Cheerilee puts a lid on the pan she was using for the oatmeal and sets the pan on the table. She also keeps the coffee and the hot chocolate covered and she knew she will have to wake Scootaloo up. She trots upstairs and thinks 'I wonder what her friends will think once they find out about her becoming my daughter.'
Once she enters the room, she sees Scootaloo still passed out and sucking on her hoof. Cheerilee finds this to be a cute scene, for this is probably one of those secrets she hid by making herself look tough. She gently places a hoof on Scootaloo and starts to rub her back as she says, "Time to get up my little one."
Scootaloo groans and rolls the other way only to be greeted by the blinding light of the morning sun. She places her left hoof over her eyelids and tries to stay asleep, but soon the smell of the food from the kitchen reaches her nose and she asks, "Is that cinnamon I smell?"
"Sure is honey, mixed in oatmeal with some apples. It's an old recipe I got from Apple Bloom's older sister, so unless you want to eat it cold I suggest you get up dear," Cheerilee says as she begins to tickle her daughter.
"Ah hahahahaha, Mom stohahap it, ah hahahah. I'm up, I'm up, uncle uncle," Scootaloo says.
Cheerilee stops tickling her and Scootaloo finally catches her breath and gets off the bed. The two ponies head down to the kitchen to have breakfast. Once Scootaloo looks at her food, she is a little curious about if she should eat it, but once she takes her first bite, she eats it like she was a vacuum gone wild. "Well, somepony certainly is enjoying their breakfast. Do you want some more?" Cheerilee asks.
Scootaloo nods and Cheerilee gives her another scoop of oatmeal to eat. The two ponies finish their breakfast and Cheerilee takes Scootaloo up to the bathroom and starts to comb her mane. As she does this, Cheerilee asks, "So are you going to tell your friends what happened yesterday, or should I."
"I think I want to tell them before class starts so I can see the look on their faces, and that way they can enjoy seeing the class's reaction. You will tell the class, right Mom?" Scootaloo asks, trying to keep herself from calling her mom 'Miss Cheerilee'.
"Of course honey, why would I want to keep this a secret? I think the only thing you should worry about is Pinkie Pie getting carried away with a party," Cheerilee says.
"But, I like her parties," Scootaloo replies.
"Well, wait til you're the guest of honor, then you may see what I mean," Cheerilee points out.
"Well, we'll never know until it happens I guess," Scootaloo says.
Cheerilee smiles at her comment as she finishes combing Scootaloo's mane and putting it in a braid. "Well, after school today we'll head down to the orphanage again to finish up the rest papers for your adoption. After that, we will let anypony else we know, find out about your adoption. That is of course if your class doesn't tell them first. Now let's get going, I'm sure you want to show the class how early you are today, oh, better yet, I'll have you walk out from behind my desk and surprise everypony in class when I make the announcement," Cheerilee replies.
"I'm liking this idea. My friends are probably gonna be laughing at Diamond Tiara's and Silver Spoon's reactions for sure," Scootaloo tells her.
"Now Scootaloo, let's not make this a way to get back at others you dislike," Cheerilee says in a stern voice.
"I know, I'm sorry. I just wish they would stop with their teasing is all," Scootaloo says.
"Well trust me, I have been seeing the way they have been treating you and your friends, ever since they got their cutie marks, and I for one am not pleased. I'll be talking to their parents at the next parent teacher conference meeting, and see if maybe I can set those two fillies straight," Cheerilee tells her daughter.
"You're starting to sound like Apple Bloom's cousin, Babs Seed. She is one tough crusader," Scootaloo complements her mother.
"Well I'd like to meet her one of these days, now, onto school," Cheerilee says.
Scootaloo grabs her backpack while Cheerilee gathers her teacher's supplies and put's them in her purse. They make their way out the door and head for the school after Cheerilee locks the door to the house. It didn't take long for them to reach the school, since Cheerilee lived only a few fields away from the school. When they get there, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were already waiting at the door. "Howdy Miss Cheerilee. Oh, hey Scoots, ya'll is here a might early today," Apple Bloom says with a surprised look on her face at how early Scootaloo is and her appearance.
"Well, go ahead Scootaloo, tell them," Cheerilee said.
"Tell us what? What's the big secret?" Sweetie Belle asks just as shocked to see Scootaloo as Apple Bloom.
As Cheerilee heads to unlock the door to the school, Scootaloo sits on her flank and says, "Well there is something I got to tell you that I didn't tell anypony til yesterday."
"What is it Scoots?" Apple Bloom curiously asks as she and Sweetie Belle sit down as well.
"Well I was afraid to tell you guys this because of what I thought might happen....... I'm an orphan," Scootaloo informs them.
As soon as she says this, Apple Bloom's and Sweetie Belle's jaws drop. Scootaloo then explains her story, leaving out the details of her parents death. "Well, why were ya so afraid ta tell us?" Apple Bloom asks.
Scootaloo says "I thought if I told anypony, that I might get sent back to the orphanage in Fillydelphia, even if whoever found out didn't mean for it to happen. I trust you guys completely, but I just was too scared to tell you, thinking you might treat me different".
"I can see why, I would probably feel the same way. I'm not gonna ask what exactly happened to your parents though, because I knew someone once who was also an orphan who didn't like to talk about what happened to their parents. I've heard about that orphanage, how did you escape that place?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"Well, it wasn't easy, but I escaped through the second floor window and down a tree that sat right next to it. I wasn't the first to figure that one out because I saw plenty others do it too. I just had to make sure to know when to do it, which was when they weren't prowling the floors to check for attempt escapees. I'll never have to worry about going back now though," Scootaloo says with joy.
"Why's that Scoots?" Apple Bloom ask.
"Because...... Miss Cheerilee adopted me," Scootaloo says waiting for their reactions.
"What?" the earth pony and unicorn filly say in unison, jumping two feet off the ground as they do.
"I'm her mother now," Cheerilee says, listening to the entire conversation.
"So, you're staying with Miss Cheerilee at her place from now on?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"Yup, so now I won't to be late for class ever again," Scootaloo says as the Cutie Mark Crusaders get up and walk towards the school doors with Miss Cheerilee.
"That's so cool Scoots," Apple Bloom replies.
"Well now that you both know, Mom, er, Miss Cheerilee and I are planning to surprise the class this morning, so don't tell anypony, okay?" Scootaloo pleads, also surprised at how fast she is getting used to calling Miss Cheerilee her mom.
"No problem Scoots," Apple Bloom agrees.
"You can count on us," Sweetie Belle adds.
"Thanks guys," Scootaloo says.
"Hey, does this mean ya'll get to come on the field trip with us?" Apple Bloom asks.
Scootaloo looks to Cheerilee and their teacher replies, "Yes, I've already signed her slip, though it wouldn't really matter since I am her teacher and mother at the same time now."
Scootaloo smiles and says, "She does have a point. So I don't think I'll miss any more of our class's field trips."
"So how will you surprise everypony in class?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"I'm going to hide behind my mom's desk and wait there until she tells me to come out," Scootaloo informs them.
"That's a neat plan. (Apple Bloom looks out the door and hears voices of the classmates) Well ya'll better hurry and hide, I think I hear them coming in now," Apple Bloom says.
Scootaloo nods and gets behind her mother's desk as Cheerilee walks out of the school room to gather some of the plants she had stored in the basement of the school to bring them into the class room on her cart. Soon all the class is inside the school and taking their seats. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom are laughing silently, thinking about Diamond Tiara's and Silver Spoon's reactions to Scootaloo's adoption. Scootaloo resists the urge to laugh, so not to give away her position. Soon Cheerilee walks in and parks the cart next to her desk. "Alright class settle down please," She tells them.
Diamond Tiara immediately interrupts saying, "Miss Cheerilee, I think one of the blank flanks is late again today. You should mark her tardy this time."
Scootaloo could barely hold back her laughter as Miss Cheerilee says, "Now Diamond, it's very rude to be calling ponies names, and I have an announcement to make before we start attendance."
The whole class looks at her with shock. She never made announcements before attendance in the past, and Scootaloo was gonna miss it. (or so they thought )
"I would like to announce that yesterday, I went to the Ponyville Orphanage and adopted a little filly," Cheerilee says, getting a mixed expression of shock and 'awwww' from the entire class, including Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle who decide to play along with the class.
"Who's the lucky filly Miss Cheerilee," Feather Weight asks.
Cheerilee looks back to her desk and says, "You can come out now honey."
As soon Cheerilee says this, Scootaloo casually walks out from behind the desk with a smile on her face. Many of the classmates gasp at her appearing in front of them with her Mane in a neat braid, like Apple Jack. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon look at her in such disbelief that they literally fell out of their desks seeing her appearance. The entire class laughs at their accident until Cheerilee says as the two fillies get back in their desks, "Alright everypony, calm down. Now that you all know that Scootaloo is my daughter, I do not want you to treat her like an outcast or anything of that nature. Treat her like you would each other, are we understood?"
Everyone nods. "Good now after we have taken attendance, I'll be handing out notices to all of you about the upcoming parent teacher conference meeting. Be sure to hand them to your parents. That includes you Diamond Tiara. I was not impressed when your parents didn't show up last meeting," Cheerilee says as she gets her attendance list from her desk.
"But," is all she could say before Cheerilee interrupts her and says, "No buts Miss Tiara, you should have known better than to make up some excuse for parents absence last time."
Diamond Tiara does not say anything to stop further embarrassment. "Now, it's time to take attendance," Cheerilee says.
Cheerilee calls out everypony's name and everypony responds except for Twist, who is sick with a mild case of the flu. Cheerilee hands out notices to the class and collects signed slips for the field trip. Soon Cheerilee began their lessons for today teaches the class about all the different plants in Equestria. Apple Bloom shares her experience with Poison Joke to the class, saying to beware of the plant, should they ever spot it. Zecora is even invited in the middle of the day to teach them a few things about plants found in the Everfree Forest and in her homeland. The day seems to fly by as they learn about all of the plants and soon the school bell rings. Before Scootaloo is able to get out of her desk though, she is surrounded by some of her classmates, all eager to ask her questions about her life before coming to Ponyville. When it came to the question of what happened to her parents though, Apple Bloom steps in and says, "Alright ya'll. Ah think that's enough questions fer Scoots ta answer. We should let her have some time to settle in with her new mom, right Sweetie Belle?"
"Right, she's still the pony we all know and love, she just became a little more open about her personal life," Sweetie Belle says, helping defend Scootaloo's situation.
"Right ya are Sweetie Belle. And Ah think there's a fine line bout Scoot's personal life Ah don't think anypony should cross," Apple Jack says who had been listening to the little fillies and colts questions after she and Rarity were told by Cheerilee about Scootaloo's adoption.
"Yes, quite right, and I think that the last question that was asked is something she would rather like to keep private. Now I think you all have your parents or siblings waiting for you, so let Scootaloo go see her mother. They have business they need to take care of," Rarity adds.
"Thanks guys," Scootaloo says.
Her friends and their older siblings nod letting Scootaloo take off with Cheerilee as they head toward the orphanage to finish up the paperwork.
A History Finding and Dark Memories
Scootaloo and Cheerilee are soon heading back down to the orphanage again with Scootaloo feeling extremely excited that after today, she and Cheerilee are really family. Cheerilee looked at her and chuckled at her daughter's expression. "Look's like somepony's having a good day," Cheerilee says.
Scootaloo was caught off guard by her mom's statement. "Mom, it's just so exciting. I just don't know how to describe it right now. So many thought's are going through my head right now, I don't know what to think," Scootaloo replies.
"I know what you mean honey, a lot is gonna change now for you and me, but it will be for the better. After the adoption papers are done, we are free to go do whatever you want today," Cheerilee says.
"Really, you mean it?" Scootaloo asks.
"Yes I do if doesn't take us all night," Cheerilee replies with a bit of fear in her voice.
"Well hello there Miss Cheerilee," says a familiar unicorn's voice.
"Ah, Twilight, good to see you today," Cheerilee says.
"You as well, I heard about what you did for Scootaloo," Twilight tells her.
"Yes, she is very excited about the whole thing," Chreerilee replies.
"Well Scootaloo, I can honestly say, you are one very lucky filly to have a teacher as your mother. I have a fear you may outsmart me one of these days in the coming future," Twilight says.
"Don't press your luck, Twi, I just might," Scootaloo says in a cocky manner.
"Oooooh, is that a challenge I hear?" Twilight implies.
"Maybe," Scootaloo says, trying to keep on her serious face, as was Twilight.
Soon neither could hold back any longer and all three ponies start laughing. "Oh Scoots, you are always fun to be around. I'll let the two of you get onto the orphanage so you can finish up your adoption," Twilight says.
"Thank you Twilight," Cheerilee replies.
Soon the the three ponies go about their day and Cheerilee says, "I guess word is spreading fast around here."
"I wouldn't be too surprised if by today's end Pinkie wants to throw a party," Scootaloo replies.
"Well let's get to the orphanage so that we can enjoy the rest of the day," Cheerilee says.
"No argument here," Scootaloo says.
Soon the two ponies made it to the Ponyville Orphanage and walked inside to once again be greeted by kind Mrs Hearty. "Well good afternoon you two, how was your first day as mother and daughter?" Hearty asks.
"We have had a very good day so far, and got an amusing reaction from her classmates," Cheerilee answers.
"That is good, now I have the rest of the paperwork here for you to fill out. Oh, and there is something else I found while looking through Scootaloo's family history earlier today. I found a piece that may interest both of you," Hearty says.
"What would that be?" Scootaloo ask, curious about the piece of news.
"Well I don't know how shocking this is for you to find out Scootaloo, but, your mother was related to the Apple Family," Hearty says.
"Huuuuuuh?" Scootaloo replies in shock.
"So, Scootaloo is cousins with Apple Bloom and Applejack?" Cheerilee asks, to try and take in the news herself.
"Yes she is. Her original mother was their mother's sister," Hearty says.
"Well I knew my mom was an earth pony, but I never knew about that bit of information," Scootaloo said.
"Scootaloo, you were only four at the time this all happened. She probably told you and you didn't remember. How is this going to affect the adoption Mrs Hearty?" Cheerilee asks.
"Well she is now legally your daughter and we were unable to find any will signed by her parents that might have helped sum up a few things in the past or with this situation, but if you wish, I could have the Apple Family residents here in Ponyville come and meet with you and we can have you both sign the papers saying you wish to have family ties with the Apple Family. You, Miss Cheerilee, would become related to them through Scootaloo's adoption, but that is if you both wish for it to happen. I will not force that on anypony, but I thought you might want to know before we finish the rest of the adoption papers," Hearty informs them.
"Well I see no trouble in it. Do you Scootaloo?" Cheerilee asks after giving herself a long time to think about it.
"No, I actually think it's cool that Apple Bloom and her family are related to me," Scootaloo says, all too eager to make the arrangement.
"Well there you have it Mrs Hearty. We agree to it, now we just need the Apple Family's approval and we should be good on that," Cheerilee says.
"Alright, just let me get one of our helpers here who knows where they live and she'll fetch them straight away. Star Gazer," Hearty calls.
A teenage pegasus mare, with a navy blue fur coat and yellow mane comes trotting in and says, "Yes Mrs Hearty."
"Please go and inform the Apple Family to come to the orphanage as soon as they can. It will be very much appreciated," Mrs Hearty says.
"Not a problem ma'am. I'll be back with the Apple Family in a jiffy," Star Gazer says.
Soon she was out the door and flying off towards the Apple Family residence. "She kind of reminds me of Spitfire in her uniform," Scootaloo commented.
"She is one who is going to try out for the Wonderbolts Academy," Hearty says.
"Well, while she is fetching the Apple Family, let's take care of all the other paper work that needs to get done," Cheerilee says.
"Alright now here's the form where we left off from last night," Hearty said handing her the form.
After about many hours of paperwork, all the forms were filled out, all that was left was the form that the Apple Family had to help with. Scootaloo and Cheerilee soon here hoof steps coming from outside and soon enough, Apple Bloom, Applejack, Big Macintosh, and Granny Smith walk in with Star Gazer, who is sent off to do her next line of work. "This better not be a way to get me and Miss Cheerilee back together. No offence ma'am," Big Macintosh says.
"Hmhm, none taken, and it's not like that at all," Cheerilee says.
"Yeah, me and Apple Bloom learned our lesson, right cousin?" Scootaloo says, seeing if Apple Bloom would catch her last word.
"Right, wait.... Cousin?" Apple Bloom asks confused once again.
Cheerilee soon tells them the information that had been given to them by Mrs Hearty. Applejack soon replies with a little feeling of guilt in her voice, "So yer the little filly our Aunty was always talkin about that one time she came for a short visit? Ah never thought..... Ah was told the whole family had, well, Ah really don't want to think about it. But still, this is a bit overwhelming Scoots."
"I know," Scootaloo says.
"She never had told us yur name during that visit Scoot's," Granny Smith said, feeling sad and guilty like Applejack not having known Scootaloo was her grand daughter.
"I never really knew or remembered I guess. I was only four when it all happened," Scootaloo said, wanting to get off the subject, knowing how guilty the Apple family was feeling.
"Well we have called you here to ask you, that is, if you wish for it to happen, if you would want me to enter into your family ties. If we both sign this form, (points to the form on the table) I would become related to your family through Scootaloo's adoption. We are fine with it, but it's entirely up to the rest of you if you want it to happen or not," Cheerilee says.
The Apple Family soon huddles in a group and talk it over. Scootaloo caught a glimpse of Apple Bloom and Granny Smith looking at her and giving her a smile, which Scootaloo took as a good sign. After a while, the Apple Family came to an agreement and Granny Smith says, "We think it's a great idea to welcome ya into the Apple Family. We'll sign it off."
"Eeeyup," Big Macintosh replies.
"That's great Granny Smith," Cherilee replies.
"Oh, please, just call me Granny," Granny Smith tells her.
Cheerilee nods and soon both families head over to the desk to sign off the form. After all signatures that were needed were on the form, Hearty says, "Alright, that settles it. You are officially part of the Apple Family Scootaloo and Cheerilee."
"Now ya'll can come ta the next Apple Family reunion," Apple Bloom says as the two cousins hug.
"Cool, I heard your last one was exciting," Scootaloo says.
"Yeah, like ya wouldn't believe," Apple Blooms says, pulling out of the hug, looking at her sister and winking.
Applejack winks back at her, making Scootaloo wonder what they had in store for the next one. "Well, it is getting late and I'm sure you want to get Apple Bloom to bed. I'm pretty sure you have things to do tomorrow," Cheerilee says.
"Just some early mornin chores, nothin major. Say, why don't ya'll come over ta our place fur lunch, since tomorrow is Saturday and all," Applejack says.
"I don't see why not. Scootaloo, would you like to do that?" Cheerilee asks.
"Sure, that sounds cool mom," Scootaloo says.
"Well then we best get home ourselves if we want to be well rested for tomorrow Scootaloo," Cheerilee says.
"Awwwww," Scootaloo and Apple Bloom say in unison.
"Now girls, it's only ta make sure ya have a lot of energy ta play tomorrow," Applejack says.
"Okay," the fillies reply together, yawning.
"Well, Scootaloo you can climb onto my back if you want," Cheerilee offered.
"I think I'll jus..." Was all she said before she and Apple Bloom passed out on the floor.
"Hm, all that excitement must a gotten the better of the little rascals," Applejack says, smiling at the scene of the two fillies sleeping next to each other.
"I would say so. One of these times, we have to arrange a sleepover for them either at your place or mine," Cheerilee says.
"That's sounds fine and dandy ta me," Applejack says.
"Darn tootin', says Granny Smith.
"Eeeyup," Big Macintosh adds.
Soon the two earth mares Scoop up their little ones and give Mrs Hearty a farewell before both families head out the door. They exchange their goodbyes and soon head to their homes to get the two fillies in bed. Once Cheerilee arrived at her house, she gently takes off her purse and Scootaloo's back pack off her back and carries Scootaloo to the bathroom. She wakes up the little filly so she could brush her teeth and as soon as Scootaloo was done, she collapsed once again, caught by her mother this time as she carries her to their bed. She lays Scootaloo down and after getting ready for bed herself, she once again moves under the covers with Scootaloo. Scootaloo was already deep in dreamland but felt her mothers presence. Little did she know what dream awaited her.
In the dream.
Scootaloo found herself in a place that was all too familiar, Fillydelphia. She walks cautiously through the streets for fear of the worst. "Mom? Mom?" She says, hearing her voice echo.
"Your mother is no longer with you, little brat," says a familiar, dark sinister voice.
It was one of the orphanage stallion workers. "You thought you could just get away from us. Think again," they say, sounding angry.
"This can't be. I have a new mother now," Scootaloo says.
"Ha, don't make me laugh. No Pony wants you kid. Your own parents left you alone in this world. Now you will pay for disobeying the rules," the pony says.
"No, no, mommy, help me!" Scootaloo screams as the stallion grabs her and she tries to get away.
"Your mommy isn't alive kid, deal with it," the stallion says as he drags her away.
"No nooooooo!" was all Scootaloo screamed before.
End of dream.
Scootaloo wakes up, panting heavily and her fur completely wet from a cold sweat that had developed and she was shaking. Cheerilee was woken up by the sudden stirring and heavy panting of her daughter and asks, "Scootaloo, what's wrong? Your trembling. Did you have a nightmare honey?"
Scootaloo turned to face her mother and simply nodded before burying her face in her mother's chest, crying. Cheerilee wrapped her forelegs around Scootaloo and started stroking her mane with one as she says to her daughter, "Shhh, It's okay my little one. I'm here, I'm here."
"It was so s-scary mommy, I was b-back in F-Fillydelphia, a-and the p-ponies from that or-orphanage were t-telling me no p-pony wanted m-me, and t-they were d-dragging me aw-way to th-the orphanage," Scootaloo said through her heavy crying.
Cheerilee realized how badly the Fillydelphia Orphanage was treating their fillies and colts. She felt it was right to help her own town's orphanage take theirs to pony court, maybe as high as the supreme royal court if need be. She then says to Scootaloo to calm her daughter down, "That is a fear you no longer have to worry about. If they ever come to try and take you away again, that will be pony-napping and they will have to go through me and the Apple Family before even thinking about getting away with it and face jail time if they even try it."
Scootaloo smiles at her mother and hugs her, knowing she was safe. After a little while of calming down and a little more encouragement from her guardian, Scootaloo convinces her body to go back to sleep once again and this time has peaceful dreams. As she slept, Cheerilee was divulging a plan to put the caretakers of the Fillydelphia Orphanage out of business. After making up her plan, she tells herself to go over it with their new family in the morning, aside from Apple Bloom of course, and soon falls asleep with her plan in mind. Soon, she joins Scootaloo in dreamland and they were both having good thoughts of their upcoming day with the Apple Family tomorrow.
The Apple Family Get Together
Celestia's sun peaks over the hills the next morning into Cheerilee's bedroom, with both ponies still asleep. As Cheerilee is woken up by the sun's rays, she thinks it best to let her daughter sleep and closes the curtains to dim the room for her little filly, who was once again, cutely sucking on her hoof. She quietly walks out of the room to make them breakfast once again, after straightening out her mane in the bathroom. This morning she was preparing apple and blueberry pancakes, along with some apple juice she had picked a couple days ago from the Apple Family. That's when she remebered that she and Scootaloo were going over to their farm for lunch today. She soon finishes making breakfast for herself and Scootaloo, and heads upstairs to wake up the little pegasus. She walks in to see that her daughter was just getting up and stretching out her legs. "Good morning my little filly. Ready to get up and start the day," Cheerilee asks.
"No, five more minutes mommy," Scootaloo says pulling the covers back over herself.
Cheerilee seizes this opportunity to come over next to her daughter and pulls the covers clean off. As soon as she does this, Scootaloo turns to her mother to see a mischievous smile on her face. "Uh oh," was all Scootaloo could say before her mother starts giving her belly blasts to have a mother/daughter moment.
Scootaloo laughs deeply and begs her mom to stop as her legs flail helplessly in the air and she is unable to move with her mother holding her down. Cheerilee soon does stop once she knew mission to wake her daughter had been successful. Cheerilee and Scootaloo soon make it down to breakfast and enjoy their meal. After they had finished, Scootaloo asks as her mother takes her to fix up her mane, "Mom, should we take anything to Sweet Apple Acres today?"
"I'm sure that your grandma and cousins would like that, even though they probably have everything set themselves," Cheerilee asks.
"Well, can't disagree with that, but still, do you think we should?" Scootaloo asks again.
"Yes, I do think we should, so we'll stop by the food market on our way to Sweet Apple Acres. Only thing you might want to watch out for is Pinkie Pie, since Sugar Cube Corner sits right in the middle of food market. If she's heard of what's happened by now, you know what she'll probably do," Cheerilee says.
"Throw a party for my adoption," Scootaloo says.
"Like your cousin, Big Macintosh always says, 'Eeeyup '," Cheerilee says, making both of them giggle.
As Cheerilee finishes with braiding her daughters mane, she and Scootaloo soon head out the door locking it and head towards the food market. They make their way through, picking up what they think would be good for the lunch get together. It was when they got to Sugar Cube Corner that they got a welcoming they expected. "Hi, hi, hi, Cheerilee and Scootaloo. I'm so happy for you. Are you happy Scootaloo? You must be happy, because you've been adopted, and that would make any filly happy knowing they have somepony who loves them and.." was all Pinkie could say in fast pace before a cupcake was stuffed into her mouth by Mrs. Cake.
"Yes, she must be very happy, my apologies for Pinkie's eccentric behavior," Mrs Cake says.
"No worries Mrs Cake. We sort of expected her to be that enthusiastic. We're here to pick up some sweets for a family get together," Cheerilee says as Scootaloo giggles from Pinkie's episode.
"Well you have come to the right place for that," Mr. Cake says walking in.
"So who are you sharing it with?" Mrs Cake asks.
"Well, this may be a bit of a shocker, but we are actually related to the Apple Family," Cheerilee says.
"The Apple Family, through you I presume?" Mrs. Cake asks Cheerilee.
"Scootaloo's related to them by blood actually, making me related to them now," Cheerilee says.
"Oh is she, now?" Mrs Cake asks, looking to Scootaloo.
Cheerilee and Scootaloo nod and Mrs Cake says, "Well that is a bit of shocker. But it's good you're related to them. They are a very close knit family. So what can we get for you today?"
Cheerilee tells the Cakes what they needed and after Pinkie Pie had told them of the party she would be throwing for Scootaloo, they finally got out door after being blasted with the party cannon. They soon shake it off and laugh at how excited Pinkie Pie was for them. Soon they head back through the food market and on to Sweet Apple Acres. By the time they got there with the supplies, it was almost time for lunch. Apple Bloom was the first to greet them and she soon led them indoors. The rest of the Apple Family soon greeted their newest members and Cheerilee says, "We brought some food for the get together, just in case."
"Aw shucks, ya'll didn't have ta go and do that fur us. We woulda been able ta handle it. But thank ya kindly though," Applejack says.
"It was Scootaloo's idea actually," Cheerilee says.
"Well, thanks fur being ever so thoughtful Scoots," Applejack replies.
"You're welcome cousin," Scootaloo says.
"I'm still trying ta get used ta that," Big Macintosh says.
"Well, now that we're here, Scootaloo, why don't you go and play with Apple Bloom while we prepare lunch," Cheerilee says.
"Okay," both fillies say in unison, and soon gallop off.
"I can see it's gonna be hard to keep those two apart now," Applejack says as she , Cheerilee, Big Mac and Granny start preparing lunch.
"Yes, it was already hard enough to keep them apart during class," Cheerilee says.
"Ah reckon ya'll have somethin ya wanna talk ta us about," Applejack says.
"Is it that obvious?" Cheerilee asks.
"Well, the first sign was ya'll was askin the little ones ta go play," Applejack says.
"Huh," was all Cheerilee was able to say to Applejack's statement.
"So, what's all on your mind Sugar Cube?" Applejack asks.
"Well, it's about Scootaloo's past actually. We were asleep last night for a little while until she woke up trembling from a nightmare she had," Cheerilee says.
"Ah see, please continue," Applejack responds.
"She had a cold sweat that had soaked her fur last night and when I asked her if she was okay, she turned to me and cried into my chest, telling me everything she dreamed about. It seems obvious that the Fillydelphia Orphanage is not treating the foals they house very well, from all that Scootaloo had told me, memories of that place haunt her, even in her dreams. To be having nightmares of that place is enough to tell me that the caretakers of that place need to be put out of work if they treat innocent little foals like the way Scootaloo described to me. I'm sure they were not targeting her for bad behavior, because she is one of the sweetest fillies I've come to know, just like Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, so it's good they have befriended each other. Even Sweetie Belle has heard rumors of that place, as well as our own orphanage," Cheerilee tells them.
"Well, if it is that bad, Ah intend to help do somethin about it," Applejack says.
"That's just what I was thinking, and I'm also wondering if you can help me with shutting them down," Cheerilee says.
Applejack stops and says, "Ah'm with ya a hundred percent aunty, just wondering how we do that."
"Well I have two options that I would like to try. One is I would find a way to have them mistreat the foals in public to see how badly they are treated, but then the thought makes me feel like I'm being lazy, and I'd rather the foals not be hurt more then they are already. My second option, which I like much better, is to go undercover, act as one of their workers and record down everything they do on a day to day basis in the orphanage," Cheerilee states.
"Ah think Ah like the second option better just like you Cheerilee. Have you thought about taking this up with the princesses?" Applejack asks.
"Well they are so busy right now, even if I did take it up with them, it may not be dealt with on their part for a while, cause, well, you know how slow news gets to them sometimes," Cheerilee points out.
"Ah think we may be able ta help with that. Ya see, Twilight and Ah are very good friends, and Ah know for a fact that she would not be pleased to hear how Scoot's been treated. If she writes a letter to the Princesses, with her being Celestia's prized student, Ah know for sure they will make it a top priority to have those ponies put away for good," Applejack replies.
"I really don't want to place any of the burden on them. I only want to do this because I care about my daughter and wish to see the rest of those orphans happy," Cheerilee says.
"Cheerilee, you're part of the Apple Family now. And we Stick together like, well ironically enough, caramel on a candy apple. When we get serious, we go all the way," Applejack says, as she finishes the last batch of apple fritters.
"Eeeyup," Big Mac says laying a big apple pie on the table.
"If you're sure you want to get the princesses involved, I won't argue," Cheerilee says, feeling a bit relieved by what Applejack told her as she sets down some freshly baked bread on the table.
"Well it'd be hard not ta get um involved once we tell all the Apple Family. We have some family members who live in Canterlot and will more then likely have word leaked to the Princesses before we know they even knew," Apple Jack says.
"Well I can honestly say I'm glad not to be a sour apple in our family," Cheerilee says.
They all laugh and Granny Smith says, "Looks like you're already gettin used being in the Apple Family. That was a good pun deary."
"I try," Cheerilee jokes, making everyone laugh once again.
"Well Ah have two questions fur ya. One, When are ya'll planing on doing this?" Applejack asks.
"When the 1 month holiday comes. Which will be a day or two after we return from the field trip we take to Canterlot on Tuesday," Cheerilee informs her.
"Well the letter should reach the Princesses by tonight, so they'll probably talk ta ya'll when ya aren't busy with the students," Applejack states.
"Well, what was your second question Applejack?" Cheerilee asks.
"My second question is, who are ya'll gonna have look after Scootaloo while you're gone," Applejack asks.
She sees the obvious answer right as Cheerilee says, "Well, I was hoping she could stay with family while I'm gone."
"Well Ah guess Apples never fall too far form the tree, do they? You're already thinkin like a true Apple member," AppleJack says.
"So that means you'll do it?" Cheerilee asks.
"Darn tootin" Granny Smith says.
Eeeyup," Big Mac says.
"We never leave family hangin. Feathers on the goat, Ah'm startin ta sound like Rainbow Dash. Anyways, Ah'm comin with ya ta get this whole thing settled for the good of those poor fillies and colts," Applejack says laying the last part of the meal for their lunch on the table.
"I really appreciate that, but I don't want to force it on all your family, with it being so big," Cheerilee says.
"We wouldn't have it any other way Cheerilee, and you're part of the family now and forever," Applejack says.
"Better believe it," Granny Smith says.
"Eeeyup," Big Mac says again.
"Now how about we call the little ones in and get to eatin some grub," Applejack says.
"After you niece," Cheerilee says.
Applejack walks to the front door and whistles with her hoof to signal the fillies to come in. The rest of the family soon hear their hoofsteps as they gallop towards the entrance to the home. Once they entered, the family saw that both of Scootaloo and Apple Bloom had dirty hooves, and Cheerilee says, "Okay girls, go wash your hooves and then we'll sit down and eat."
The fillies were quick to obey as they heard their bellies rumble. Applejack watches them gallop up the stairs and says, "All that playin probably has worked up their appetite. If they're anything like I was at their age, they'll have one of a full grown stallion, like Granny's always sayin."
"Well I would think so. You should have seen Scootaloo when I her gave some of your famous recipe for apple-cinnamon oatmeal," Cheerilee said.
"Wow Nelly, did she eat that much of it?" Applejack asks as she sits down.
"Like a vacuum gone crazy," Cheerilee says with a giggle.
"Well Ah'll be, looks like Ah may have some competition in the near future," Applejack says.
"That's just like what Twilight said. Guess great minds thin alike," Cheerilee says.
"Why thank ya'll," Applejack commented, tipping her hat.
Soon Scootaloo and Apple Bloom join the family at the table and Scootaloo tells them about the party as they dig into all the different apple made food on the table and then some. After they had finished Apple Bloom lets out a belch and says, "Excuse me," as everypony laughs. Cheerilee then burps and says, "My goodness, excuse me", getting another laugh from everypony.
What happens next sent the whole family crashing onto the floor in laughter, including Cheerilee and Scootaloo. Scootaloo belched so loudly that they thought it could be heard all the way to the Crystal Empire. She immediately covers her mouth, blushing, before they were all laughing so hard that their eyes water up. After they finished laughing Applejack says, "Yeeha, everypony, we have ourselves a winner fur the loudest belch in all Equestria. Do you have anythin you'd like to say?"
"Excuse me," Scootaloo joked, making everypony laugh again.
"Well, what would ya all like to do now," Applejack asks.
"Well, we could go for a walk through town, burn of some of the unneeded fuel, and take care of anything we may need to do while we are," Cheerilee says, looking at Applejack and winking.
"Sounds good to me. Big Mac, How bout you?" Applejack asks.
"Eeeyup," Big Mac says.
"Granny?" Applejack asks, only to notice Granny Smith had fallen asleep.
"Okay, she's out, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, what about you two?" Appljack gestures to them.
"I'm good with it," Scootaloo says.
"Yeah maybe we can find Sweetie Belle along the way and then go do some crusadin," Apple Bloom says.
Cheerilee and Applejack shrug at each other, finding no harm in it. Soon the new, bigger Apple Family was off.
The Day had finally arrived for the classes departure to Canterlot. There were a few of the classmates that didn't show, including Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, who had seen the throne room countless times with their parents. This was a relief on the CMC, for they didn't have to put up with the two ponies constant bullying. They felt sorry for Twist, who was still sick with the flu, and for the classmates who's parents wouldn't allow their foals to travel so far from home. Once all tickets were given to Cheerilee she says to the class, "Alright everypony, Time to board the train. Lines of two please."
The class soon lined up in groups of two, with the CMC already at the front. Cheerilee soon hands the tickets to all ponies who were present and after they all to their seats they here the conductor say, "All Aboard."
Soon enough the train started moving and picked up speed as they exited the Ponyville Station. The fillies and Colts waved goodbye to their folks that had come to see them off, until their parents were out of sight. Scootaloo wave to Rainbow Dash who had flown by to show off to the foals before they were out of site, and Rainbow Dash waved back. As soon as she was there though, she was gone in a flash. All the foals were amazed at how fast she had sped off. Cheerilee then grabbed the classes attention and says, "Alright everypony, who here can tell me what windows we may recognize? Let me see a show of hooves."
Everypony raised their hooves and Cheerilee says, "Yes, Feather Weight."
"The day, er, night the bearers of the Elements of Harmony defeated Nightmare Moon and freed Princess Luna from her jealousy," Feather Weight Answered.
"Very Good, Scootaloo, how about you dear?" Cheerilee asks.
"Um, oh, the day Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor defeated the changelings," Scooatloo responds.
"Excellent, we'll have three more ponies answer, seeing how some of you lowered you hooves after those two answers. Hm, Moon Shimmer, you seem to have one," Cheerilee Says to her newest student.
"The day the the bearers of the Elements of Harmony defeated and re-imprisoned Discord," the sky blue earth pony filly with a red mane says.
"Great Job, and how about...... Apple Bloom," Cheerilee picks.
"When the Princesses imprisoned Discord the first time," Apple Bloom answers.
"Another good answer. Sweetie Belle, your the last one with your hoof raised, what's your answer?" Cheerilee asks.
"The day when the Princesses were crowned the rulers of Equestria," Sweetie Belle answers.
"Impressive Sweetie Belle, you did your homework. Not many ponies remember that window," Cheerilee replies.
"How soon will we be in Canterlot Miss Cheerilee?" Moon Shimmer asks.
"Judging by the trains speed we should be there in an forty-five minutes to an hour," Cheerilee Answers.
All of the sudden many of the classmates bellies gurgled. "Oh how silly of me, we've been moving for about fifteen minutes and I forgot to call in the pony with the snack trolley. (the class giggles) Everypony wait right here and I'll be back in a minute," Cheerilee informs them.
The students wait patiently in their seats, and as Cheerilee fetches the Trolley. "So what do think will happen now that Equestria was saved from the changelings?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"Don't know, but it was awesome last time we went to Canterlot and got to watch Princess Cadence defeat them," Scootaloo says.
"Yeah I wonder if we'll ever do somethin great like that," Apple Bloom says.
"We can always try...." Scootaloo stops in mid sentence as she notices Moon Shimmer sitting alone.
"Hey crusaders look over there," Scootaloo says as she casually points to Moon Shimmer.
"What about her?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"Well, she seems lonely," Scootaloo says.
"Well she is sitting all alone," Apple Bloom says.
"Yes, but one question is why? Another question is why is she so sad?" Scootaloo states.
"Ah never thought about that. Let's go talk ta her," Apple Bloom says.
"Yeah," Sweetie Belle responds.
The three fillies walk over as best they could as the train trows their walking of balance and finally they make it to the filly. "Hi girls," Moon Shimmer says shyly.
"Howdy Shimmer, mind if we sit with ya'll," Apple Bloom asks.
"Go ahead," Moon Shimmer replies.
As soon as they sat down around Moon Shimmer, Scootaloo notices her flank is blank like theirs. She then asks, "So where are you from Shimmer?"
"Moved in from Baltimare," Shimmer says, feeling less shy now.
"Wow, I came from Fillydelphia," Scootaloo says.
"I've Never been ta Baltimare. What's it like?" Apple Bloom asks.
"Well, its a lot like Manehattan. Always busy and noisy too," Moon Shimmer explains.
"What made you come to Ponyville?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"Well, my family and I couldn't stand all the hustle and bustle and assorted commotion in the city, so we picked some place well known, but quieter, and a lot less stuck up then some places in Equestria," Moon Shimmer tells them.
"Wow, that bad?" Apple Bloom asks.
"Mm hm," Moon Shimmer.
"Oh where are our manners, I'm Scootaloo, and this is Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom," Scootaloo says.
"Nice to meet you," Sweetie Belle says.
"A pleasure making your aquantence," Apple Bloom replies.
"Yeah, I know who you three are, I'm just surprised you, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, know me," Moon Shimmer says.
"Well we pretty much know everypony in class. Hey, do you want to join the Cutie Mark Crusaders Shimmer. I mean, it's fine if you don't want to," Scootaloo says.
"You want me to be in your club?" Moon Shimmer asks with shock.
"Well yeah, we're always looking for ponies who need help to find their cutie marks, and we even have some members who already have cutie marks and some crusaders who operate outside Ponyville," Scootaloo responds.
"Yeah like our cousin Babs Seed," Apple Bloom says.
"Wait, you mean you two are cousins?" Moon Shimmer asks as she looks Scootaloo and Apple Bloom.
"We know, shocking. We only found out Friday ourselves," Apple Bloom says.
"You mean the day after Cheerilee became your mom?" Moon Shimmer asks.
"Yep, the Ponyville Orphanage found out my original mother was an Apple Family member, so now Cheerilee's part of the Apple Family too," Scootaloo says.
"Wow, that's so cool," Moon Shimmer says.
"Yeah, hey you know when we get to Canterlot, you can hang out with us," Sweetie Belle says.
"Sure, oh, and yes, I want to be a crusader," Moon Shimmer replies.
"Well then, welcome to the 'Cutie Mark Crusaders'. We'll give you the full initiation when we get back to Ponyville," Sccotaloo says.
"Fine by me," Moon Shimmer says.
They soon hear the door to the the train car open and in walks Cheerilee with another pony pushin the trolley.
Everypony picks what they want to eat and soon it came to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. "What can I get for you fine young fillies?" the Pony asks.
"Ah'll have an apple fritter," Apple Bloom says.
"Here you go dear," the pony says as he gives the apple fritter to Apple Bloom.
"I'll have a chocolate cupcake," Sweetie Belle says.
"Coming right up," the stallion replies, giving her a cupcake.
"How about you two dears?" the pony asks.
"I'll have cinnamon bun," Scootaloo says.
"Me too," Moon Shiimmer says.
"Two cinnamon buns, freshly baked," the pony finishes giving them the cinnamon buns.
"Thank you so much sir. How much do I owe you?" Cheerilee asks.
"No pay necessary ma'am. It's all part of the train service," the pony tells her.
"Last time I was on, they asked for payment," Cheerilee says.
"The Policy changed not too long ago ma'am. Besides, I'm happy to put smiles on little fillies and colts. Makes me smile inside and out in return," the pony exclaims.
"Well thank you sir. Girls, what do yo say," Cheerilee replies.
"Thank you sir," The four fillies say in unison
"Always a pleasure little ladies," the stallion says making the four fillies blush.
He soon walks off and just as the fillies finished there treats the train slowed to a halt. "Canterlot Station, Watch your step on your way out little ones," The conductor says as the class forms in pairs of two, Scootaloo next to Moon Shimmer.
Cheerilee collects all the train tickets so they were not lost for the classes return trip and she places them in her purse. Soon there was four guards, along with their captain of the Guard, Prince Shining Armor, who was back for a visit from the crystal empire. "Ah, Miss Cheerilee I would presume?" Shining Armor asks.
"That is correct sir," Cheerilee answers.
"The Princesses are expecting you and your class at the castle today, oh, and here is a note from the Princesses themselves," Shining Armor says, kindly giving her an envelope/note card.
Cheerilee takes the note card and opens it up and reads silently,
Dear Miss Cheerilee,
We have given this note to Shining Armor to give to you to inform you that we must talk as soon as we have finished the first part of our tour before the lunch break we have arranged. We have no doubt that you know what the conversation will be in reference to and will be awaiting you in the throne room during said break. We have also arranged to meet with the 'inspector' at said time to see what he has to say on said matter, which we suspect we will be given false info, judging from our lettered conversation with Twilight Sparkle, whom we trust, along with you, completely.
Your peaceful rulers,
Princess Celestia and Princess Luna
P.S. Congratulations on your adoption of your daughter Scootaloo. We can't wait to meet her when circumstances become better after the upcoming event.
Cheerilee soon places the note in her purse and says, "Well thank you Prince Shining Armor. Shall we be on our way?"
"Indeed Miss Cheerilee, please follow me and the guards shall help escort us there," Shining Armor replies.
Soon the class followed their teacher and the Prince/Captain. The guards surrounded the group of children, as if there was some threat looming around the corner. The Children didn't mind at all and kept walking towards the Castle. They were about half way there, when Scootaloo notices some familiar unicorns and says, "Hey look girls. It's Twilight's and Shining's parents, Velvet and Night Light Sparkle."
They look over to them just as Shining Armor says, "Good morning Mother, good morning Father. Good to see you again."
"Good Morning son," Night Light says.
"I see your still in top form dear," Velvet compliments.
"I go for nothing less, I'll speak with you later once I've escorted these fine children and their outstanding teacher to the castle," Shining Armor replies.
Night Light and Velvet nod as Shining continues to lead them to the castle. They soon reach the palace doors and two guards, one unicorn, one pegasus, lift their spears and th unicorn opens the doors with his magic, allowing Shining Armor Cheerilee and the class access into the castle. Scootaloo see's the pegasus quickly eyeing her, but did not understand why. He did look familiar, but from where, she did not know. Soon the class entered the throne room, and Cheerilee says as she and the class bow, "Good morning your majesties."
"Ah, Miss Cheerilee, a pleasure to see you here today. I trust the guards treated you well," Celestia says as she and Luna fly over to them.
"Yes your majesty," Cheerilee says.
"Well let us begin our tour," Luna reponds.
They soon show them all the windows on the west side that were of a history long before the little foals or Cheerilee were born. as they near the end they see windows that show the time of Discords reign of chaos, just before the alicorn sisters had wielded the elements of harmony. As they had just reached the end of the first wall, the clock tower chimed twelve, indicating it was time for lunch. Miss Cheerilee lead her students to the dining hall and the cooks of the castle brought them foods that were home away from home. As the foals settle in, miss Cheerilee pulls herself away as Princess Luna asks a hoof maiden to keep an eye on the children. Once Cheerilee was able to slip away, she heads back towards the throne room. When she arrives she bows once again and says, "Princess Celestia, Princess Luna. You wished to see me."
"Ah, Miss Cheerilee, I see you recieved our letter. Do come in my little pony," Princess Celestia says as she and Luna had just finished looking at a blank window they had been talking to each other about.
Cheerilee soon trotted in and Princess Luna says, "Please follow us, to the thrones. we have a seat arranged for you."
She followed them to the thrones and asks as they walk, "Pardon me your highness's, but from what your letter told me, you had an inspector go to the Fillydelphia Orphanage, am I correct?"
"Yes quite so, and we have had this inspector time and again tell us that the orphanage has been a great place and meeting it's set standards. However, after being given the information about the way your daughter was treated, which we congratulate you on your adoption by the way, our careful analyzing of the situation has led us to conclude that our inspector has been lied upon inspection to or has been bribed to lie to us himself. We have no clear evidence to this mind you, but from what Scootaloo had described to you, in which you in turn described to us through my student Twilight Sparkle, it would seem that we must dig in deeper if we are to expose these Ponies for their crimes," Celestia says as they make it to the thrones and the seat that had been set there for Cheerilee along with a desk and some parchment, a quill and an ink bottle.
"Well thank you for congratulating me your highness, but how do you intend on uncovering their crimes?" Cheerilee asks as she takes her seat soon after the princesses.
"There will be time to explain that after we have had our discussion with the inspector my dear Miss Cheerilee. He shall be here any minute," Princess Luna says.
"Of course your highness," Cheerilee says.
After she had said that the doors to the throne room open and they see a black unicorn stallion with a clipboard and paper as a cutie mark and light brown mane walk in. "Good afternoon your highness's, a pleasure to see you again," the stallion says as he bows.
"Mr. Quill. We have summoned you here today to ask for your third semi annual inspection on the Fillydelphia Orphanage. We understand it is a bit soon, but we were just curious and wished to hear about it, for we are needed elsewhere for the kingdom when the assessment is due," Princess Celestia says.
"Yes your highness, I understand completely, and I also understand that our meeting was to be held in private your majesties," Mr. Quill says.
"Oh this is our new records keeper for our conversations we attend. We felt she needed to attend this meeting and will attend future meetings of this matter, unless otherwise requested," Princess Luna says, covering for Cheerilee's presence.
"Very well your highness," Mr Quill says, caught a bit off guard by her presence as Cheerilee had begun to record the conversation that could be used for this ponies prison sentence.
"Now, has the orphanage been treating the foals that reside there with the needed generosity they require?" Princess Celestia asks.
"Yes your majesty," Mr. Quill says.
'Liar,' Cheerilee and the Princesses think to themselves. "And has the orphanage been receiving any bad publicity Mr. Quill?" Princess Luna asks.
"None that I have heard of, your majesty," Mr. Quill says with a slightly shaky voice.
'Another lie' Cheerilee thinks to herself. She couldn't get a read on whether the shaky voice was because he was nervous of being found out, or if he was just a bit timid around Princess Luna as the Stallion answered more questions that took a while to finish up.
"One final question, has there been any run away fillies or colts within the past year?" Celestia asks, wanting to stop hearing his lies.
Cheerilee looks intently at the pony, waiting for his reply. "Yes," Mr. Quill says.
Cheerilee felt he may yet tell the truth at this point, till she hears him say in a an even more shaky voice, "But all have been returned soon after, while they had been found roaming the streets of Fillydelphia thinking their parents were still out there, your majesty."
That was the one lie Cheerilee needed to hear that confirmed the princesses suspicions. "Thank you Mr. Quill. That is all we have for you. You may return to Fillydelphia on the two o'clock train," Princess Celestia says seeing it was an hour and forty minutes away.
"Thank you your majesties, I bid you a good day," Mr. Quill says as he bows.
"And to you as well, Mr. Quill," Princess Luna says.
The black stallion makes one final bow before turning around and leaving the throne room. Once they were sure he was out of hearing range, Cheerilee asks, "Do you feel he knows something darker about the orphanage then he was leading on your majesties?"
"He gave us his regular answers, so there is not a doubt in my mind that he was lying through his teeth and was hiding dark secrets about the orphanage Miss Cheerilee," Princess Celestia states.
"He especially sounded nervous on that last question, for we know that he lied on that question having Scootaloo being one of the runaways. I feel that little filly's actions were justified when she escaped, Miss Cheerilee," Princess Luna adds.
"Well, we still have to prove the orphanage is mistreating the foals your majesties," Miss Cheerilee says.
"Quite right, and my little sister and I have formulated a plan that will ultimately put them out of business," Celestia says.
"And what would that be your highness?" Cheerilee asks curiously.
"My sister and I are going to disguise ourselves as foals. I will make myself look like an earth pony, while Luna will be a unicorn. We will act as though we recently lost our parents. Once in the orphanage, we shall truly see how they mistreat the fillies and colts of the orphanage," Celestia says.
"Are you sure your majesty. I mean, I'm sure you can handle it but, I really don't want my own rulers to have to stay there your highness," Cheerilee says.
"It is our decision and we won't be alone. We know that you and Applejack will be there as well, acting as your own characters in this plan. We'll meet with the two of you outside the orphanage once they send everypony home and put all the foals to bed. I have arranged for you and Applejack to stay at a hotel around the west corner near the orphanage, all expences paid, once the holiday starts, and we have the scheduled train tickets waiting in the mail for the two of you back at your house," Princess Celestia says.
"As you wish your majesty, but I'm sure Applejack and I could have managed," Cheerilee responds.
"Well, what's done is done, now why don't we join the fillies and colts in the dining hall, Miss Cheerilee? I'm sure they wish to ask us a few questions before we continue our tour of the throne room," Princess Luna says.
"After you your highness's," Cheerilee says as she bows and soon walks with them to the dining hall.
It had been three days since the field trip to Canterlot and Cheerilee and Applejack were preparing to leave for Fillydelphia. They were now saying their goodbyes to their little fillies, after Cheerilee had arranged for Scootaloo to stay at the Apple Family's residence. It was a little hard for Scootaloo to say goodbye to her new mother as she says, "Mom, I don't want you to go."
"Honey, I have to. Your cousin and I have some business to take care of, and then we'll be back before you can say 'apple strudel'. When we get back, we'll have plenty more time to spend together, I promise," Cheerilee says.
"But, why do you have to go? Couldn't Big Macintosh go?" Scootloo asks sobbing.
"Scootaloo, somepony has to take care of your grandma, and I'm a little inexperienced," Cheerilee replies.
"I guess you're right," Scootaloo replies.
"There's my big girl. Now I want you to behave yourself while we're away. If all goes well we may be back early," Cheerilee says.
Scootaloo smiles at her and says, "Well then I hope it all goes well, whatever it is."
Cheerilee smiles back and soon nuzzles her little filly. She wished she didn't have to let go of her daughter, but then she heard, "Train will be leaving in three minutes, all passengers, please board."
"Well I have to go now, I love you dear," Cheerilee says as she releases from the embrace.
"I love you too mom," Scootaloo says as she waves her mother goodbye.
She and Apple Bloom watch as Cheerilee and Applejack board the train. It was only to be a week, but if they were able to get enough information with the princesses, they may be able to take down the orphanage early. The princesses were already on their way down to the orphanage and had sent word throughout the kingdom that Princess Cadence would be assuming their political duties while they were needed elsewhere . "Do ya'll think the princesses are already ahead of us on findin out what the orphanage is like?" Applejack asks.
"They arranged for us to arrive in Fillydelphia on the same day they are, if not the same time. If they are in Fillydelphia already, they are probably just getting checked in," Cheerilee says as she and Applejack look through the window, waving goodbye to the family.
"Ah'm still shocked the Princesses would go through with it," Applejack says, as the family is out of sight and the sit down to face each other.
"They have been around longer then we have, I'm sure they can handle it. Oh and Princess Celestia's name will be Autumn Breeze and Princess Luna's name will be Dream Catcher. Their going to be two fillies who recently lost their parents according to what they tell the care takers. How young they are is anypony's guess. We'll have to come up with names of our own if were gonna pull this off. They definitely know your name, but what you look like, they don't, and I don't know how far my name has been spread, so better to be safe then sorry," Cheerilee tells Applejack.
"Darn tootin. Hopefully we can take care of this as soon as possible. With the stories that Apple Bloom told me about Scoot's time there, Ah wouldn't be surprised that we take care of this whole thing in three days at the least," Applejack says.
"Well we can always hope for the best turn of events. Now lets talk it over about how we're going to approach these ponies. So I'm thinking for my name, Corn flower, so I can have some name close to what my cutie mark looks like," Cheerilee says.
"Alright, Ah think....... Apple Tart would be good for me. If Ah went by any other name that didn't reference to my cutie mark, they may get way too suspicious," Applejack says.
"No argument on that matter," Cheerilee says, knowing Applejack was making sense.
They go over their plan at least three or four times as they near Fillydelphia. Once they arrive at the station, they ask the stationmaster where to find the Prancing Pony, and he shows them that the hotel is a few fields away and on the same field as the orphanage. They soon grab there luggage together and head towards the hotel. Once they get there, Applejack says to a unicorn stallion at the desk, "Howdy sir, my friend and I here have a room reserved."
"May I have your names Madam," the stallion asks.
"Applejack and Cheerilee," Applejack replies.
"Ah, yes, the princesses have arranged for you to stay in a room on our top third level. Faces right at towards the orphanage. And don't worry," he whispers as he eyes the door suspiciously and continues, "The princesses have told us what you intend to do about that place. We've been trying to get rid of the higher employees for ages now. How you intend to do so is beyond us, we only hope that you succeed. Truth be told, the orphanage gives the rest of our city a bad rap. True there are ponies in this city who are cruel, but to be cruel to a filly or colt is another level. Some of the employees there are just to afraid to stand up to their instructor, others are just cruel because they have been turned. since we've had no proof to give about them, we are unable to shut them down. But the princesses say that there is a plan in motion that they will see succeeds. We may lose our orphanage, but we will find a way to make the children happy again. If you are wondering how I know this, It actually helps when you befriend Princess Celestia at a young age sometimes, and I am always happy to see her and Princess Luna when they visit our hotel for over night stays. They are always cheerful to swap conversations here, now I won't keep you waiting. I'll let you get to your room and we can talk more later, and of course, your secret is safe with me and my staff."
He hands them their key to their room and Cheerilee says "Thank you sir."
He nods and soon the two earth ponies make their way to their room. Once they make it inside, they lay down their luggage set out the thins they would need for their stay and their day at the orphanage. After a little while of getting everything in order that afternoon, Cheerilee says, "Well, it's nice to know we've got some ponies to helps us on the outside here in Fillydelphia, this may still yet go better than we hope. We can't stay here to long today, we still have to make our way down to the orphanage."
"Darn tootin. Let's get going right now, the quicker we get there and get hired, the quicker we can get those foals away from that cruel place," Applejack states.
"Took the words right out of my mouth niece. Let's go and help the little ones out, Apple Tart ," Cheerilee says.
"After you, Corn Flower ," Applejack says.
Soon Cheerilee and Applejack make their way down to the first floor and the Unicorn says, "Good luck girls, we're rootin for ya."
"Thank you sir, we didn't catch your name earlier," Cheerilee says.
"It's Star Dust," the unicorn tells them.
"Well it's nice to meet ya Star Dust. We'll be back later tonight," Applejack says.
Once they had finished the conversation, the two mares take off for the orphanage. It takes them about five minutes to get to the front door and once there, Cheerilee knocks. The door opens and they see a brown unicorn mare with half moon glasses and a look on her face that seemed it would intimidate any foal, and maybe a few staff members. The mare says in a monotone voice, "Yes, may I help you?"
"Good afternoon ma'am. My friend and I are here to apply for job at this orphanage," Cheerilee says.
"Follow me," the mare says.
Applejack and Cheerilee follow her in and she leads them to an office that says 'Orphanage Mistress' on the door. They follow her in and soon see her walk behind a desk and sit on the chair. "Now, I must ask as to why you are choosing this job," the Mistress says.
"Well, ma'am. My friend Corn Flower here and myself both lost our jobs. We were looking around for new jobs, when she saw that the orphanage was hirin," Applejack says.
"That is correct mistress. My friend Apple Tart and I are hard working and feel we can contribute to helping you here," Cheerilee says.
The Mistress says as she walks to look out the windows, "Well, I will admit that number employees is at a low right now. Most of the new interns that come around here either get fired in the first three weeks or quit. We just got two new fillies that came in, and they're already a hoofful on their first day here. For now you're hired, and I'll put you on trial for one month, but I doubt you can last two weeks in this place."
"Glad we ain't stayin that long," Applejack mumbles quietly.
Cheerilee nodded, and the mare turns around and says, "While you are here, you are to do what is asked of you. Do not make the fillies and colts favorite you over everypony else, for I will be watching. I do not want to see the foals here running to anypony for protection from other employees. As caretakers, it is our job to discipline them and make sure that they are treated with what they deserve. If I hear any complaints from the other employees, you will be out of here faster then you can say Elements of Harmony. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes ma'am," the Cheerilee and Applejack say.
"Well then get to work, your employment starts now," The Mistress commands.
The two Earth ponies nod and head of. Once they knew she was out of hearing distance Cheerilee whispers, "Looks like she lacks the Elements of Harmony."
"Ah'll say. She is one stuck up mare," Applejack whispers back in reply.
"Well time to get to the employees and the Foals," Cheerilee says.
Soon they come upon the area where the employees are either punishing the little foals or was ignoring them when they needed help. One unicorn filly had just scraped her knee and was limping and crying, while the Pegasus stallion was telling her, "You just need to learn to go with the pain little brat."
Cheerilee soon spotted the two ponies they had been searching for. An earth pony, going by the name of Autumn Breeze, and a younger Unicorn filly still in training diapers who went by the name Dream Catcher. The two ponies were being yelled at by two pegausus mares as one of them says, "You two have caused us enough trouble this afternoon. We are going to have sweep the floors in the dining hall and then we'll see if you like being so care free and uncooperative."
"Bu-but ma'am, Dream Catcher is still in training diapers. W-what if she needs to go or n-needs a change while we're sweeping?" Autumn Breeze (Princess Celestia) asks trying to stop them from punishing Dream Catcher (Luna) at least.
"Well then she'll just need to deal with the diaper rash, and maybe you'll learn your lessons for not following the rules," the other pegasus says.
"Oh boy, we got ourselves a rough day ahead. Hope the Princesses are able to make it through without, you know, losing it ," Cheerilee says.
"I have a feelin that we may fair better then them. Come on we need to get to our job Corn Flower," Applejack says, trying to get them to blend in in case the Mistress was watching.
"Alright Apple Tart, let's get to it," Cheerilee says.
The two ponies take off and do their routines for the day, some of which made them wish there was a way around it. They had chores that stretched from washing diches and clothes to making sure the little foals didn't wonder off or do anything that would upset the Mistress, resorting to punishing them, which seemed routine for the employees. The children had quickly grown to be scared of both of them, and they wished they could do something about it. Then Applejack had an idea and waited for miss Cheerilee to get on break with her. Once they were able to meet with each other, Applejack says, "Hey Ch- Ah mean Corn Flower (looks around to see if anypony else is near by), Ah have an idea. Look, ya see how the foals have grown to become afraid of us real quick?"
"Yes, what are you getting at here?" Cheerilee asks.
"Well tonight, before we go, we'll tell the Mistress we'll make sure the fillies and colts go to sleep. while we're doing that, we tell the little ones what we're really doing here. We also tell them to keep it secret so they can get out of here, and Ah think they'll listen once we explain. Ah know it's not part of the plan but..." Applejack says before she was cut off.
"Apple J- er Tart, I think it's a great idea, but we need to plan it carefully. We must make sure they treat us the same way as the rest of the staff, or our cover could be blown," Cheerilee says.
Applejack nods in agreement and soon the two mares were off again doing chores. The day seemed to drag on for a bit, but finally came to an end. The clock showed 8:30 p.m. and the Mistress says, "Alright everypony, the day is finished, who will stay behind and make sure all the foals are in bed before the night staff gets here?"
"We will Mistress," Cheerilee quickly says.
"Ah, taking the extra step on your first day, good hustle. Be sure they are all in bed and do not be late tomorrow," the Mistress says.
"Yes ma'am," Applejack and Cheerilee say.
"The rest of you go home, and be here tomorrow. No slacking," the Mistress says before walking out.
Soon the other ponies walk out, leaving Cheerilee and Applejack inside with the foals. Soon they go to both the girls' and boys' bedrooms and they say to each pony, "Now little ones, listen we're actually here to help you. We know how rough we seemed today, and we are working on a plan to get you out of this place, all of you. But you have to understand, you can't treat us any different then the staff members knowing this if you want to get out of here. We have someponies we know who are really powerful ponies and they will help to get you out of this place, but you must keep it a secret. Do you understand?"
Every filly and colt nods, feeling a weight lifted off their backs that they will soon be free of this poor excuse of an orphanage. Once the night staff came, Applejack and Cheerilee tell them that all foals were asleep. Once the night staff took over, Cheerilee and Applejack sighed in both relief and sorrow. They were happy not to be around the cruel ponies, but felt so downhearted for the foals that slept there. Once they got to the hotel and up to their room, the princesses were already waiting for them. Both ponies then bowed to the princesses. "Ah, Applejack, Cheerilee, it's nice to see you outside of that orphanage," Celestia says before revealing to them the information they had recorded.
"Well it wasn't an easy day for us, but Ah reckon yours were just as brutal if not more your highness's. You were putting on quite an act when we trotted in your majesties," Applejack says after hearing all their information.
"Well thank you Applejack, living thousands of years does give us some acting skills. And yes the day was hard for both of us. We have gathered more information about this orphanage today then we had hoped for, and it would be more then enough to take them down tomorrow morning, and the Fillydelphia police and our guards are more than ready to take them down, however, we will have them hold off for it would look too suspiscous if the two new fillies and employees that just got there all of the sudden vanished. What we need you to do now, is to cause yourselves to get, how do they say it, oh, thrown out tomorrow or the next day after that. Once that happens, we will have the police, the guards and the EBI (Equestrian Bureau of Investigation) raid that place. I honestly don't think I can spend more then four days in that place with the way they were treating us," Luna says.
"I agree completely little sister, no Foal should have that kind of cruelty given to them. And I thank you for not losing your head and using the old royal voice on them," Celestia says.
"I was tempted, and honestly if it hadn't of been you there to try and defend me big sister, I just may have," Luna replies.
"Ah still can't believe that we have ponies like that in this world. To harm a child like that is down right nasty. Ah would never forgive myself if Ah treated Apple Bloom or Scoot's that way your highness," Applejack states.
"Me neither, and thank you for giving us outside resources for this your highness's " Cheerilee says.
"No trouble my little pony. Now we must return to the orphanage and to our filly states before they spot us missing. I have a tracking spell on the night staff and they are nearing our sleeping quarters. We bid you good night and hope to have this whole thing settled with soon," Celestia says.
"Good night your majesties, we hope it is settled soon as well," Cheerilee says as she and Applejack bow while the princess teleport back to their room in the orphanage.
Applejack and Cheerilee soon get ready for bed and agreed one of the best things to do tomorrow was to show up late to get themselves fired, and if that didn't work, to do everything that the Mistress told them not to do. Soon both ponies were under the covers waiting for what tomorrow would bring and fall asleep, knowing that they didn't have much longer to stay in Fillydelphia after the raid takes place.
The Sun rises on the city of Fillydelphia and shines through the window of the Hotel room Applejack and Cheerilee were staying in. They were still asleep but soon the morning rays became too much that even the curtains were not enough to block out the wake up call. The two ponies roll out of bed and head for the bathroom to get ready to start their day. Once they had straighten out their manes and clean up their fur, they make their way down to the dinning room in on the first floor. They eat their breakfast and soon make their way outside and decide to take a little detour heading to the orphanage, even though they were already late. Cheerilee asks as they walk, "So, what is the first thing you think we should do if showing up late doesn't work today?"
"Not sure sugar cube, we could try and make it ta where we are treatin the foals nice," Applejack says.
"That's a little too easy, and I doubt it would be enough to get us fired right away. We would have to do countless slip ups for some thing like that," Cheerilee replies.
"Okay, Ah think here's a good one. When we see that another employee is startin ta hurt or punish one of the youngins we jump in to stop the punishment. If that don't work, we stop doin everythin they told us ta do and start doin everythin they told us not ta do," Applejack suggests.
"Now that is a good idea. That will definitely throw us out. Do you know why the princesses want us to do this?" Cheerilee asks.
"Ah think it's because they don't want us ta be mixed up in the turmoil that is likely ta occur durin the raid of the orphanage," Applejack says.
"That's what I was thinking, I just wondered what you thought," Cheerilee says.
"Well, Ah reckon we stayed away from the orphanage long enough. Hows about we get ta headin in for work now?" Appljack says.
"Fine by me," Cheerilee says.
They trot towards the orphanage, knowing they were likely to be getting a lecture on being late. Once they were at the front door, it swings open and the Mistress stomps her hoods hard on the ground and says, "You two are an hour and a half late."
"We're sorry miss, we," was all Cheerilee could say before the Mistress cuts her off and says, "Sorry isn't gonna bring back the minutes we lost in maintaining this place because of your tardiness. You better get to work and pray you don't make the same mistake twice."
"Yes ma'am," The two mares say in unison.
Soon they head into the orphanage and see what other mischief they could cause. They make their way into the common area where children are picking up toys or playing with them quietly. Two colts run past them and one was unable to stop himself and tripped over a toy causing both of the colts to fall and scrape their knees with some blood starting to surface. Cheerilee see's an opportunity when a gray unicorn stallion says, "I told you two to walk, and now you both scraped your knees. For disobeying me, both of you.." he was cut off by Cheerilee who says, "Will follow us to the bathroom."
"Excuse me ma'am? They need to be punished," the stallion scolds.
"No, they need ta have their cuts looked at and cleaned," Applejack snaps at him, catching Cheerilee's execution on the matter at hoof.
"They can survive some scrapes, they need to obey orders given to them, which they didn't," the unicorn says back.
"If these scrapes are not properly cleaned, or looked at, these two colts could get sick," Cheerilee says, with a lot of the employees in the room looking ant her and Applejack with wide eyes, as if to ask, 'what do you two think you're doing?'
"It serves them right, now it's time to give them their punishment," the gray pony says.
"No, their comin with us and that's final," Applejack says, giving him a glare that would even make full grown mares want to run for cover. "Come along boys," she finishes, as the boys get up and walk over to them, limping from the pain and getting on the mares backs.
The unicorn stood like a statue with his mouth wide open, as if Maredusa had just gave him the stare that turned anypony stone, before he finally snaps back to reality to say, "Hey, bring those foals back here, they need their punishment!"
By the time the time he had said it, Cheerilee and Applejack had already carried the colts through the doors that lead into the common room ten yards away. Once they reach the bathroom, the two mares set the colts down on the ground and the little foals sat there as Applejack and Cheerilee brought out the first aid kits. Soon the sit down in front of them and Cheerilee says, "Now let us take a look at those nasty little cuts."
The colts were hesitant but soon held out their legs. Applejack then says, "Now we're goin ta clean these up so they don't get infected, so this may sting a bit."
They soon apply the cloths that they had dabbed with disinfectant and placed them on the foals scrapes. They wince a little and Cheerilee says, "We know it hurts, but it will only be for a little while. You two were very brave to disobey those other ponies and come with us."
"W-why are you being so nice to us," one colt asks.
"You don't remember us from last night youngin?" Applejack asks quietly.
"Wait, you're the two mares that are going to help all of us?" the colt asks.
"Yes, we are not actually from here. We're from a town called Ponyville, and we have an orphanage there that has way nicer staff. They do not punish little foals like you for any simple reason. The orphans in our town love it there," Cheerilee whispers.
"I wish we could be there," the other colt says.
"You will. By tomorrow night this place will be gone for good and ya'll will be comin ta our little town," Applejack whispers as she finishes putting the band aid on the colt leg.
The two colts smile at each other and hope that the two mares are not playing a joke on them. "Now don't tell anypony, or our cover is blown, alright little ones? (The colts nod) We won't be here tomorrow working, and judging by what we have done here, probably not for the rest of today, but don't fear, because tomorrow, things will get better for all you little ponies, guarantee it," Cheerilee says making sure nopony outside was listening.
They make their way out of the bathroom and then to the common room, and there they see the Mistress. "You two mares, come with me," she says.
They start to follow the mistress and Applejack looks back at the foals and winks at them to assure them she and Cheerilee had been telling the truth. They walk through the hallways of the orphanage to the Mistress's office. Once inside the mare slams the door walks furiously to her desk and says in an angry voice, "I can see you two are going to be a problem. When you showed up late, I went easy, because I thought you were just trying to get used to the new timing of your new job. Now you go and treat these foals with caring and generosity. I said you wouldn't last two weeks, you couldn't even last two whole days to obey these rules. There is a reason why those foals are sent here. Because no pony wants them and they deserve to be treated this way."
Seeing this as another opportunity Applejack says, "Ah thought it was because the youngins lost their parents and had nowhere else ta go, and that they are supposed ta be treated with the proper care here."
"Silence, our job is to discipline these foals, not to make them feel like they are all high and mighty," The mistress says.
"I thought we were supposed to be looking out for their well being, not punish them for simple little mistakes that anypony would make as a foal," Cheerilee says.
"If we treat them like that, then they never learn why not to make those mistakes. This orphanage is here to build their character for good behavior, and seeing as you two ponies don't grasp that, you leave me no choice," the Mistress says.
"What are you saying?" Cheerilee asks, knowing the answer already.
"You both are fired. I want you out of my office and out of this orphanage by the time the clock strikes noon," the Mistress says, as the clock was five minutes away from the hour of noon.
"You'll be regretting this ma'am," Applejack says as she and Cheerilee leave the office.
"I think I'll actually enjoy the rest of my day once you're gone, now get out of here," the Mistress says.
Soon Cheerilee and Applejack were out the door and onto the hotel. As they walk Applejack says, "Ah hope those two colts will be okay."
"They will be fine. We're getting them out of there tomorrow and all of the little foals will be looked after at our own orphanage, remember?"Cheerilee asks
"Yeah, you're right, Ah need to send letters out tonight ta get all the Apples here ta help with the move," Applejack says.
"Do you think they can make it here tomorrow," Cheerilee says.
"We Apples know every safe and not so safe shortcut in Equestria ta get from one big city ta another. That's how we're able ta move our loads so fast when leavin our towns ta sell them elsewhere. So if we have the Princesses send them tonight with their duplication and teleport spells, the family members will be here by noon at the very latest, no matter where they are, aside from the crystal empire city of course. Don't think Ah have family that resides there, yet . Ah'll have ta show ya'll, Apple Bloom, Babs, and Scoot's them shortcuts when we're back in Ponyville."
"Wow, and you haven't taken Apple Bloom yet you say?" Cheerilee asks.
"She just turned six this year, we were going to have her and Babs get together during the one month holiday to show them the short cuts together. That is, until we found out Scoot's was one of us and we adopted you into the family. We may have to hold the reunion early this time round to let the family celebrate the outcome of what's going ta happen," Applejack says.
"Well I'm looking forward to it," Cheerilee says as they near the hotel.
They soon get to the hotel and tells the staff what was about to happen and soon enjoyed the rest of their day while still thinking about the orphans. Once nightfall came and the foals were put to bed in the orphanage, the two mares were waiting in their room and soon see a huge flash of light that could only mean the princesses were there. "Well, this is going to go faster then would have initially anticipated back in Canterlot," Celestia says to Luna.
"Quite so big sister. Ah Applejack, Cheerilee. I'm glad to see you are both still in one piece. That was quite an impressive display you put on today. While we were at the orphanage, I was able to sneak in an opportunity to have the EBI, Fillydelphia Police Department, and our royal guard we brought with us be ready to raid the orphanage tomorrow," Luna says.
"Well that's good to hear. There is a favor we would like to ask of you, your highness's," Cheerilee says.
"Oh, and what might that be?" Celestia asks.
"Well, we know there are a lota orphans ta move from the orphanage and ya'll are good with many spells that even Twilight's unable ta do yet, so, we was wondering if you could send out letters ta all Apple Family members sayin that we could use their help movin the foals, your highness's?" Applejack pleads.
"We had a feeling you might ask that. Fortunately, last night while all the Apple Family members were still asleep, I was able to visit the young adults in their dreams last night to give them the news and ask them to help. Now I don't usually do that and it would be an invasion of privacy most of the time, but I felt this was an exception, considering the situation here. I had already talked to my sister about it and she agreed to it, and all the family members agreed and are on their way here as we speak, probably on the outskirts by now. I'm sure their little ones came with to help out, so they are probably going to keep the orphans company. So it seems everything is in order for tomorrow," Luna says.
"I wonder if word reached Apple Bloom and Scootaloo?" Cheerilee asks to no pony in particular.
"Who knows, you know now that I think about it, our orphanage is gonna need some remodelin when we get back ta house the foals coming in. Only issue is the money ta put inta it," Applejack says to Cheerilee.
"We will cover that, I will not have the rebuilding of the Ponyville Orphanage made difficult by financial issues. News about this entire event is going to spread fast across Equestria, and we will need as much help as possible," Celestia says.
"Ah think my family can help big time on that part your majesty," Applejack states.
"Very true, but it can't hurt to ask for some extra hooves. Now we will let the two of you get some sleep and we will see you tomorrow when we must tell the orphanage personnel why they are being shut down and arrested," Luna says.
"Thank you your majesties. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning," Cheerilee says.
"Good night my little ponies," Celestia says as she and her sister teleport out of the room once more to ready the raid for tomorrow.
Soon Applejack and Cheerilee get themselves ready for bed and set their alarm early, preparing for what would be a change for the Orphans of Fillydelphia, and of course seeing how the press would spread the story as they would probably want to get the latest scoop on the princesses and what they were doing. Soon both mares fell asleep, ready for tomorrow morning.
The morning came and the two ponies were asleep until the alarm went off. Once Cheerilee stopped the chiming she says with a yawn, "Well, time to get up and make the little ones happy today."
Applejack yawned herself and says, "Eeyup, time to shut down that orphanage and get all those little rascals back to our town. Hope the family's prepared for all the foals they'll be transportin."
"I'm sure they are Applejack," Cheerilee says.
"Well, times a wastin, let's get to it," Applejack replies.
Soon both mares get themselves ready for the morning and are soon on their way down to he orphanage after having breakfast and telling the hotel that there something happening at the orphanage they don't want to miss. All the Ponies follow them and they round the corner that the orphanage was on. When they get there, they see the princesses pulling up in their royal chariots along with the EBI, FPD (Fillydelphia Police Department), and their royal guards. Princess Celestia says as she and her sister dismount, "Ah, Applejack, Cheerilee, glad to see this morning, and it seems your family has just arrived as well."
Applejack and Cheerilee look behind them and see many of the Apple Family members trotting up to the orphanage, some with wagons, and the two mares also spot Big Macintosh pulling a wagon with Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Granny Smith, and Winona on it as well. Big Macintosh soon stops the wagon next to Applejack an nuzzles her as Scootaloo and Apple Bloom and Winona get of the wagon to greet their family. "Mom, oh I missed you," Scootaloo says as she nuzzles her mother.
"I missed you too honey," Cheerilee replies.
"But why are we back in Fillydel.... Oh no," Scootaloo says hiding underneath her mother once she sees the orphanage.
"Don't worry Scootaloo, it's going to be okay. This is actually something you don't want to miss," Cheerilee assures her daughter.
Scootaloo was curious what her mother meant but still stayed between her mother's forelegs. The Crowd settles down their chatter as Princess Luna says, "We wish to speak to the Orphanage Mistress and her Employees, and we ask that you bring out the Foals outside as well."
The was no answer. They saw the mistress peak outside the window, but nopony answered the door. "Mistress we know you're in there. Come out here at once!" Celestia says, using a bit of her old Royal voice at the end.
Still nopony answered. "Gentlecolts, you may proceed in breaking the doors down," Celestia says to the EBI and FPD.
The Stallions made their way to the door, and it didn't take long to break it down. Soon they make their way inside and the Royal Guards follow. It took about thirty minutes for them to round up every mare and stallion employee and all the foals they were taking care of. Scootaloo was in a bit of a shocked state, for she had no clue what was going to happen. The Mistress was was the last one to be brought out and she spotted Scootaloo and said as she trotted towards her, "You... You made this all happen. You brought them down upon us."
She was about to try and hurt the little filly when she sees all the adults of the Apple Family close by, including Cheerilee, stand around the little pony, who had retreated further beneath her mother and they all eye the Mistress and snort at her, as if to say, 'You try and touch her and you'll have to deal with us,' and she backed off. She spins around when Princess Luna says, "If you attempt to harm her, you will only find yourself in a deeper situation then what you're already in, and not just from us."
"Indeed, Scootaloo is not to be harmed by you or any of your employees ever again, nor are any of these other foals who have been under your care," Celestia says.
"I'm not sure I understand what you're saying your majesties, and this little filly is a run away. She should be brought back to the orphanage right now, your highness" the Mistress says.
Scootaloo whimpers and Cheerilee wraps her hoof around her to protect her. "You know perfectly well of what we are talking about. Scootaloo has a family now, and it should have been that way to begin with," Luna says.
"I beg your pardon your majesty?" the Mistress asks acting as if she didn't know what happened.
"This fine mare, right here is now her mother, and these are her blood relatives the Apple Family. Somehow, the will that her parents had made has become lost and we were unable to find out what would have happened if we had seen it two years ago. Destruction of documents without our consent is against the law, but unfortunately we can't rewrite that history, or many things could be left unchecked if we did. That is not the main reason we are here though," Celestia says.
"Well, what is the reason you are here, your majesties?" the Mistress asks.
"We are here to shut down your orphanage, and to place you and your employees under arrest," Luna says as the police and royal gaurd start to approach the orphanage workers.
"What? But why, what have we done?" the Mistress asks.
"You have mistreated these young ones and punished them to an extent we find unlawful and abusive," Celestia says.
"I beg your pardon your highness's, but where is the proof to accuse us of such crimes?" the Mistress asks, trying to keep her orphanage and keeping herself and her workers out of prison.
"We were able to see what was happening here first hoof," Celestia says.
"I don't recall any recent visit, your majesty," the Mistress informs her.
"Do you recall two foals that were recently added to your list of orphans?" Luna asks.
"Yes your majesty," The unicorn says.
"And do you notice how the two fillies are not present?" Celestia adds.
"Y-yes, your highness," the Mistress answers, nervous about what would happen next.
"Well it just so happens, those two fillies were my sister and I, disguised as foals, so we could see what was happening to the foals of this orphanage," Celestia says.
"What? But there was a notice from the news that you were...." the Mistress was cut off as Luna says, "Needed elsewhere , yes that is correct, we were needed here. The notice never said anything about leaving Equestria."
The Mistress was speechless, her own rulers were right under her nose, and she didn't detect their presence. "What about those two ponies? (she points to Applejack and Cheerilee) Aren't you arresting them as well, your highness's?" The Mistress asks hoping to take down the two ponies she fired with her.
"Those two ponies were actually working undercover for us, feeling they should witness what it was like here at the orphanage themselves, and to help inform the foals in your care of what was to happen. And as I recall, you fired them a day and a half into their job," Celestia states.
Once again the mistress was left speechless. She tried using her last line of defense and asks, "What of the fillies and colts? They don't have anywhere else to go. Are you planning to destroy the only place they have to stay your majesties?"
"They will be well looked after. The Apple Family was kind enough to offer their help to relocate the fillies and colts to the Ponyville Orphanage. There, they will receive the proper care and treatment that should have been given to them here, and for all the runaways of this orphanage who are not here, I hope they find their way there, if they haven't found homes already. You and your employees, on the other hoof, will be given your sentences back in Canterlot and then sent to prison to whereever our EBI and the Fillydelphia Police Department see fit. You may take them away Gentlecolts," Luna says, as the ponies of the EBI, FPD, and a few of the royal guard put the pony workers of the orphanage in chains.
The foals of the orphanage and Apple Family alike watch as the employees and the Mistress are dragged away. The Princesses then look at the little orphans and Celestia says, "Little ones, come over here please."
The little ponies obey and kneel before their rulers. Luna smiles kindly and looks at her sister before turning back to them once more as she says, "We have many wagons here prepared for all of you, and they will be ready to leave as soon as we know all of you are ready to go. All we need you little ones to do now is to gather your belongings and bring them to the wagons out here. And I'm sure some of the adults here will help with the babies' belongings."
The foals eye all the wagons that had been pulled up to the orphanage and were all in aw as one asks, "All those wagons are for us your majesties?"
"Yes my little pony, now you might want gather your things if you want to make it to the new orphanage before nightfall," Celestia says, making the foals excited enough to pack there belongings.
The foals were so excited that they almost forgot to bow to the princesses on their way back in. Some of the Apple members started to gather the baby foals and set them in the wagons while others went inside to get the baby belongings, and since there were so few, it was easy to tell which baby had which belongings. Soon all the young ponies were ready with their things when the clock had struck ten o clock in the morning. Princess Celestia orders in a demolition team to destroy the orphanage and eliminate the bad memories for all the orphans. They began destroying the building after they moved everything that could be salvaged and the last orphan had been successfully loaded onto the wagons. "Little ones say goodbye ta the one orphanage you will never see again and will be happy ta see gone," Applejack says as the wagons start to pull all the youngsters, both orphan and Apple family alike and the princesses take off in the their royal chariots.
All the little foals wave and Scootaloo looks over at her mother, walking along side the wagon, and she smiles, knowing that the one place she feared and all the ponies she feared were gone for good. Cheerilee smiled back at her and says, "Now you see why I had to leave. It was to make sure that you don't ever have to worry about that place. I would never let them hurt you honey."
Scootaloo only smiled more and blushed a little, knowing she had ponies who cared about her, especially after seeing the Apple Family defend her against the Mistress. As the family trots on about halfway to Ponyville, Apple Bloom asks, "So, what's gonna happen to the orphanage back home now?"
"Well, seein how we have all these new youngins coming in ta the orphanage, we'll probably have ta do some remodelin to make the place bigger and better then it already is for them," Applejack says.
"Do you think anypony of the Apple Family might want to adopt some of these orphans when we get back?" Scootaloo asks.
"There's a possibility that could happen. They may even adopt a foal or two who's already at our orphanage. I'm sure a few of our family members are wanting to adopt a foal, right Applejack?" Cheerilee asks.
"Ah don't see why not. We're always expandin, and Ah know some of our family has made adoptions, your not the first Scoot's,"Applejack says.
"I think you're too young to adopt a foal though, Scootaloo," Cheerilee says.
Scootaloo looks at her wide eyed and says, "Wait that's not what I....."
She stops in mid-sentence as she sees some of the orphans giggling. She then laughs herself getting her mom's joke. "Nice one mom," Scootaloo says.
The Apple Family and the orphans continue to talk while some of the orphans play with Winona, who was enjoying the attention. They made it home to Ponyville, after taking the quickest and safest shortcut, around five o clock in the afternoon. Once they get into town, many of the ponies are surprised to see all the little foals riding in the wagons and some ask what was going on. The Apple Family answered their questions as they made their way towards the orphanage. Once they get there, Mrs Hearty walks outside and asks, "Wells bless my soul, where did all these adorable foals come from?"
"Some from the Fillydelphia Orphanage, Mrs Hearty," Cheerilee says.
"Wait, why are they not in Fillydelphia? Did you..." was all she could say before Cheerilee says, "The Princesses have put a stop to their cruelty and the orphanage has been shut down. Now all the orphans who are here need a place to stay which we hope you agree to take in."
Mrs Hearty says with tears of joy in her eyes and her employees' eyes, "How can we not? I know we can make room for these little munchkins for a little while."
"Well it won't be too long. Ah Reckon by now, the princesses have everything in order ta help remodel this here orphanage," Applejack says.
"Well what are waiting for, all you little ones get yourselves inside before you die of anticipation," Mrs Hearty says in a joking tone.
All the little foals are motionless for a second until they hear, "Well you heard the mare. Let's move those little hooves inside, unless you wanna sleep outside."
All the little ponies start to make their way into the orphanage and the grownups watch as they all walk in with smiles on their faces. Once all the fillies and colts were checked in, Mrs hearty says to Cheerilee and Applejack, "I don't know how you managed it, but you certainly made a lot of little ponies happy today."
"Well it wasn't easy, but you'll be reading about it tomorrow if not a couple of days about what happened while we were there. The Orphanage has been shut down, the caretakers are apprehended, and the building demolished, so there is no reason to for these foals to fear that place anymore," Cheerilee says.
"I am honestly impressed and I am happy to see all these little ones in a safe place. Makes me wonder what would have happened if the events that led up to this had never occurred," Mrs hearty says.
"Well, it's like the princesses say, better ta leave the past unchanged, or it may allow some important things ta go unchecked," Applejack says.
"Well, I'll let you all take off for home and let you enjoy your evening. The foals are in good hooves now. Thank you very much," Mrs Hearty says.
"Well thank you for taking them in," Cheerilee says.
"Always a pleasure to help little ponies in need dear," Mrs Hearty replies.
The mares soon exchange their goodbyes and Applejack leads all the Apple Family members back to the farm, aside from Scootaloo and Cheerilee, who decided to head back to their home. Once Cheerilee and Scootaloo are back in their house, they each have a daffodil sandwich and some hay fries to fill their bellies after the long trip back home. Once they finish, Scootaloo was ready to pass out again, but fought to stay awake as she slowly trots upstairs with her mother to get ready for bed. Once they brush their teeth and take out their braids, both ponies climbed into Cheerilee's bed and were soon snug under the covers next to each other as the each fell into dreamland, thinking about what tomorrow would bring.
A Realization and a New Discovey
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. It was another day in Miss Cheerilee's class. As always, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were acting all high and mighty, while most ponies were just having their own conversations before class. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were staring at an empty desk. They then look at each other and shrug, wondering where Scootaloo was. Soon, Miss Cheerilee walks into the classroom and everypony settles down. "Alright everypony, time to call for class attendance," She informs them.
Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were worried. It was only every so often that Scootaloo was late, and they didn't want her to get in trouble for it. She usually was let off easy, depending on how late she was. Just as Cheerilee was about to say the first name, the door to the classroom swings open. There was Scootaloo panting heavily and with her mane in a bit of a mess. "Relax Scootaloo, catch your breath and take your seat dear, we were just about to do attendance," Cheerilee tells her.
"Miss Cheerilee(pant) I'm so sorry. (pant) I didn't mean to..." was all she could say before Cheerilee replies so her student wouldn't pass out, "It's alright Scootaloo, you're not in trouble. Judging by your mane, I suspect you were woken up late."
Scootaloo straightens out her mane best she can and walks to her desk, red with embarrassment. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon of course snicker at Scootaloo's tardiness and bad mane day. Scootaloo soon seats herself in her desk next to Apple bloom and Sweetie Belle and attendance was taken. "Alright everypony, now before we begin our lesson today, I'd like to announce that we will be going on a field trip to Canterlot in five days to learn about the many windows in the royal throne room. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna themselves will be our personal tour guides," Cheerilee says.
The class cheers with excitement for they all loved field trips, then came the part that they didn't like. "So, with this field trip, I'm going to need each of you to give this slip to your parents to sign and then bring it back to class," She tells the class and starts handing out slips.
This information was a hardball for Scootaloo, for even though she had shown up in Ponyville last year, she knew she wasn't able to go on this field trip as it was every other time they were given this slip. As Cheerilee passed around the slips, she notices Scootaloo's head facing down at her desk. At this particular time Cheerilee did not say anything to the little filly, for the lessons had to start. She finally gets to her front desk and says, "Alright, today we are going to be learning about the different kinds of birds we see here in Equestria."
As the day went on, the class learns about all types of birds, including Princess Celestia's majestic pet Phillamena the Phoenix, and the CMC were most eager to ask questions about them. Diamond Tiara only kept braging that she would have a bird the would be majestic enough for her. Soon the day had finally come to an end and everypony packs their bags and head out of class. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom tell Scootaloo they would be busy today and soon hurry out the door. Scootaloo finishes up packing and was heading out the door when Miss Cherrilee stops her and says, "Scootaloo, I must speak with you."
The filly stops in her tracks and was shaking, thinking she was in trouble. "Relax dear, you're not in trouble, as I said earlier. I just need to ask you a few questions," Cheerilee assures her as she sits down on a cushion.
"Come sit with me," she continues as she motions Scootaloo towards another cushion she had set out.
Scootaloo obeys her teacher, knowing there was no good excuse around this. Once Scootaloo sets down her back pack and gets comfortable, Cheerilee says, "Scootaloo, I know that you have been late to class a few times in the past year, and I went easy on you since you didn't do it often, but that's not all. I noticed today that you were looking down when I passed out the slips for the field trip. This isn't the first time you haven't gone on a field trip with us and I know that because every other time I asked you to turn one in, it showed no signature. I feel there's something behind all of this and it has bothered me for quite some time. Now I have my suspicions but I need to know something. Is there a deeper explanation you haven't told me as to why you have been acting this way since you first came to my class and why you never have these slips signed? Don't your parents want to make sure you that you get a good education?"
As soon as Miss Cheerilee asked that last sentence, she wished she hadn't, for she saw tears start to swell up in the little filly's eyes. She then realizes her suspicions were confirmed and why Scootaloo had been so down today and why she never went on said field trips. "Oh, Scootaloo, I'm so sorry, please forgive me," Cheerilee says.
"It's okay, (sniff) you didn't know. (sniff) I never told anypony," Scootaloo informs her.
"But why didn't you let anypony know of your situation?" Cheerilee asks.
"I didn't want ponies (sniff) to treat me different, and I didn't want (sniff) to back to that orphanage in Fillydelphia. (sniff, sniff) Please don't send me back Miss Cheerilee. (sniff) I don't want to leave Ponyville," Scootaloo begs as tears kept rolling down her cheeks.
"Scootaloo, I would not do that. You have friends here and you are one of the best educated students I've come to know. I would never tear you away from your friends," Cheerilee says as she starts to feel tears come to her own eyes.
"(sniff) But the orphanage is the only place (sniff) I can go to get this slip signed, (sniff) and they'd never let me leave after (sniff) running away from them," Scootaloo says as she continues to cry.
Cheerilee pulls the filly close to her and lets the little orange pegasus cry into her shoulder as she explains her story and lets her feelings out after being bottled up for so long. "Oh Scootaloo, I understand how you're feeling right now and to be honest, I've always felt some sort of connection with you that I don't get from the other students. You're smart, caring, fun for other ponies to be around, honestly, I haven't met anypony with your personality. I always felt something about you when you first arrived, but I couldn't place my hoof on it. If I had known what was going on way before, I would have taken action immediately once you had explained it dear. But I suppose it's better late then never, right?" Miss Cheerilee states.
"W-what do you m-mean Miss Cheerilee?" Scootaloo asks confused as she pulls her head away and wipes away her tears to look at her teacher.
"Oh Scootaloo, I guess you didn't know this, but once information about you is given to one orphanage, all other orphanages are soon informed through mail, that way, should one close down for any reason, the next nearest orphanage can immediately take in the orphans of the previous orphanage. We'll head to the one here in Ponyville," Cheerilee tells her.
"I still don't understand how you'll take immediate action. It sounds like you are sending me back," Scootaloo says.
"Scootaloo, don't you see what I'm trying to do? I'm going to adopt you dear, and become your family. Your mother," Cheerilee replies.
Scootaloo's jaw dropped immediately upon hearing this. "But, but you're my teacher," She says in shock.
"Doesn't mean I can't be your mother as well, and besides, I'll be able to keep you out of trouble this way. Well, as much trouble as I can manage when you're not, what was it again? Crusading?" Cheerilee jokes.
This in turn makes the little pegasus giggle. "Now, how about we take you back to my house and fix up your mane so we can have you look presentable when we head to the orphanage," Cheerilee says.
"Does this mean I need a bath too?" Scootaloo asks.
"Yes it does," Cheerilee states.
"Good," Scootaloo replies.
This gives her teacher a sense of shock at her statement. "I havent had a warm bath since my parents died two years ago," Scootaloo tells her with a sad tone.
"Well I'll give you one at my place. Lets get our stuff packed and get out of here," Cheerilee says as she hugs the little filly.
"Okay 'mom' ," Scootaloo replies.
Cheerilee smiles at her statement and soon she and Scootaloo get ready to go. After they were done packing, Cheerilee locks the door to the school and soon she and Scootaloo start heading into Ponyville towards Cheerilee's house. Once they arrive, Cheerilee sets down her school supplies on her table in the living room and Scootaloo sets her backpack down near the door. Cheerilee then motioned for Scootaloo to follow her upstairs towards the bathroom. Scootaloo follows and smiles as she does. As they walk up the stairs, Cheerilee thinks to herself, 'Why didn't I ask her about this sooner. She was always so ready to learn, but I should have seen this coming sooner when her parents were never able to attend those parent teacher conference meetings. I always did wonder why she never mentioned her parents, but it seems logical why I didn't pry into her personal life. Maybe that's why I had such a maternal feeling toward her in the past. Because she needed me, and I didn't even push myself to see it until now. Well, now she's getting a mother she needs and deserves.'
Once they reach the bathroom Cheerilee turns on the tub and checks the temperature of the water to set it to a temperature Scootaloo would find comfortable. Once the bath was filled, Scootaloo set herself in the bath, but then felt a sting near her right front hoof, immediately pulling it out of the water and saying, "Ouch."
"What's wrong honey?" Cheerilee asks as she bathes her daughter to be.
"My hoof, I must have scraped it when running to school this morning," Scootaloo shows her.
"Oh, let me see," Cheerilee says.
Scootaloo lets her take a closer look at the scrape and upon inspection Cheerilee decides to pull out a waterproof band aid and puts it on Scootaloo's scrape. She then kisses it and says, "There, all better dear."
Scootaloo smiles and soon her bath was over. Cheerilee dries her off and takes a comb to straighten out Scootaloo's mane. Once that was done, they were soon out the door again and heading towards the orphanage. Scootaloo was a little worried, thinking that the orphanage may send her back to Fillydelphia. Cheerilee looks at her and says, "Don't worry Scootaloo. I know the staff very well and how they treat the children here. The children who live here are always happy because of the people who take care of them."
"But what if they send me back?" Scootaloo asks.
"They won't," Cheerilee says.
"But what if they...." Scootaloo was cut off by Cheerilee putting a hoof on her and says once again, "They won't."
With that Scootaloo breaths out a sigh of relief and soon they were at the entrance to the Ponyville Orphanage. When they walk in, they are greeted by an elderly, teal colored mare. "Why hello there Miss Cheerilee. How may I help you?" the Mare asks.
"Good afternoon Mrs Hearty, I'm actually here to adopt this young filly," Cheerilee says as she looks to Scootaloo retreating behind her leg and nervously waiting.
"And what is this cute young filly's name?" Mrs. Hearty asks as she looks in a loving manner at Scootaloo.
"Her name is Scootaloo," Cheerilee states.
"Alright, let me just pull out the records here," Hearty replies.
She scans through the files and finally finds Scootaloo's file. "Here we are, Scootaloo, parents passed away in fire, and a runaway orphan from Fillydelphia Orphanage. Well that's no surprise, I always did tell the staff that place was horrible. Been trying to get as many foals out of there as I can and at the same time take the orphanage to court for mistreatment," Hearty says.
"Well that's good to hear. Now, can we get the adoption forms taken care of Hearty?" Cheerilee insists.
"Of course Ma'am," Hearty replies.
Soon the forms were pulled out and Cheerilee asks Scootaloo questions only Scootaloo could answer herself to help with the adoption papers. It took most of the day to fill out many of the forms, making them stay for dinner and Scootaloo even brushed her teeth, and by the time they were done with about three quarters of it, Scootaloo looked like she was going to pass out. Cheerilee saw this as she finished the last of the adoption papers that would give her the right to take Scootaloo home with her until the rest of the papers could be signed off, and she hoisted the filly up onto her back. "You can sleep while I carry you home, okay honey?" Cheerilee asks her new daughter.
"(Yawn) Okay. Thanks mom," Scootaloo replies exhausted.
Cheerilee smiles as her new daughter falls asleep and she says, "You're welcome my little daughter. Sleep tight."
With that Cheerilee left the Orphanage with her little filly on her back and Mrs. Hearty smiling at them. Cheerilee was imagining how the class would react tomorrow as Scootaloo was deep in dreamland. Scootaloo was happy and content, because now she had a new mother and a guardian to take care of her. She had been saved from the streets that she had been living on for a so many months, now with somepony to help protect her from the harsh winter to come.
Soon they arrived at Cheerilees house and being as quiet as possible, Cheerilee took her daughter inside and laid the little filly on her bed gently enough not to wake her. She soon got herself ready for bed, then pulled herself and Scootaloo under the covers, since it was going to be a little while till Scootaloo had her own room. She wrapped her legs around her new daughter, and soon both were in dreamland, preparing for tomorrow.
