Chapter 1: Introductions

Apples ‘N Wrenches

By The Write Bros.

Chapter 1: Introductions

“Granny! The rusty ol’ water pump is broken again!” Applebloom shouted back at the porch. She gave the pump a kick in one last attempt but it still wouldn’t yield.

Granny Smith sat in a rocking chair on the front porch, soaking in the warmth of the sun and glancing out at the farm. It was a gorgeous day; the skies were clear and there was a light breeze blowing through Sweet Apple Acres.

“Maybe you should go into town dear and get some help from the repair shop… Don’t go alone, though.” Granny said.

Applebloom walked back to the porch, “Where’s Applejack?” she questioned in a particularly adorable manner.

“I think she went off to visit with her friends dear… maybe Big Mac can take you instead?” Granny said.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said, walking out of the house. Applebloom gestured for Big Mac to follow her and they left the farm closing the gate behind them.

“Be back by sunset!” Granny Smith said. Applebloom and Big Mac trotted off towards Ponyville leaving Granny to doze off in her chair. Ponyville was a good twenty minutes away from Sweet Apple Acres, so they took their time.

The repair shop was located in the center of town just past the marketplace. It was a fairly sized crimson building that stood out among the more common housing in town. A huge wooden sign hung over the door, which read, “Hammerplank’s Supplies and Repair”. There was a mailbox next to the door which at the moment was empty. A smaller sign in the nearby window read, “Yes, we’re open”. Big Mac and Applebloom stepped into the shop; a small bell chimed as the door swung open.

“Be with ya’ in a sec!” a stallion’s voice rang out from behind a workbench near the back of the shop.

“Nope… no… that won’t do... darn it, I coulda’ sworn it was here..!” the voice said in a frustrated tone, clinking metallic sounds could be heard as he was obviously sifting through a toolbox.

“Hey Big Bro, will this work?” A noticeably smaller, younger voice asked.

“Nope. Not unless we can use pliers to twist in a screw on that wheel.” The first voice replied. An average sized stallion got up from under the bench and ran a hoof through his mane. He was a denim-blue pony with a charcoal-black mane that was long and unkempt since more often than not he was probably too busy with work and didn’t have time to look after it. His tail was scruffy and of medium length, and his eyes were grey which shined like dusty pearls. On his flank was a small, grey wrench, a clear indicator of his attributes. He wore a typical worker’s vest with a name-tag that read, “Ficks”. He looked very tall for a stallion but Big Mac still dwarfed him immensely. A smaller colt appeared behind him. He was a much lighter blue with a scruffy navy blue mane that seemed to be all over the place. His eyes were a deep amber color, and His flank was marked with a small, grey hexagonal nut. Clearly, he was a relative and pupil of Ficks.

“Nut, I need the torque wrench. Any chance you have it hidin’ somewhere in your room?” Ficks asked.

“Nuh-uh. I remember last time I did that, Uncle ‘Plank gave me quite a fuss ‘bout misplacing his tools.” Nut said with some remorse.

“I remember that. Don’t think you were the only one who got that talk.” Ficks said with a smile, elbowing his little brother. “Anyhow see if you can’t find it while I take care of this costum-“, Ficks looked up to see a familiar red stallion standing in front of him. “By Celestia, Big Mac? No way!” Ficks said with glee.

“Eeyup!” Big Macintosh said.

“Wow, it’s been forever since I last saw you, how ya’ been doin’? Ficks asked in a cheerful manner.

“Mighty fine; will admit though, hasn’t been the same without’cha.” Big Mac replied.
Ficks looked down at Big Mac’s side to see the yellow and red filly with a confused expression on her face.

“And who might this be?” Ficks asked.

“My name’s Applebloom!” She answered.

Ficks extended a hoof out to Applebloom, “Well it’s nice to meet’cha Applebloom. Name’s Ficksitup but you can call me Ficks.” He said.

“Pleasure to meet’cha!” Applebloom said rather happily.

Nuttanbolt decided to poke his head out to see what was going on and who Ficks was talking to. Before he could ask, Big Mac beat him to the punch.

“Who’s this little guy?” Big Mac asked.

Nut introduced himself. “I’m Nuttanbolt, Ficks’ little brother.” He said with an easily detectable semblance of pride.

“I’m Big Macintosh. I’m an old friend of your brother Ficks. Nice to meet you.” The Red Stallion remarked.

Applebloom inspected Nut head to hoof, only to find that he too already had his Cutie Mark, much to her dismay. “Aw, come on! This one’s got a Cutie Mark too? Why can’t I have one!?” Applebloom asked almost enraged and most certainly irritated.

“Somepony woke up on the wrong side of the Haystack.” Ficks stated.

“She’s a bit fussy ‘bout Cutie Marks; ‘cause she don’t have one yet.” Big Mac grumbled.

Ficks looked at the filly and spoke, “Aww its okay Applebloom, everypony gets theirs eventually.”

“That’s what everypony says!” Applebloom yelled out before Big Mac put a hoof over her mouth.

“Bro, What does he mean about not being the same without you here?” Nut asked in a confused manner.

“Oh man, I never did tell you ‘bout that did I? I’ll tell you sometime, just remind me would’ja?” Ficks said chuckling a little bit.

“As good as it is to see you again, we are here on business… Our water pump stopped workin’ recently, and we thought maybe we could get ‘Plank or somepony to fix it for us.” Big Mac said.

Ficks scratched his head for a moment, then cheerfully responded, “Well, I’m afraid Uncle Hammerplank is out running an errand right now and he left Nut n’ me to watch the shop but I’m sure he wouldn’t mind if I stepped out for a bit to help a friend.”

“How much is it gonna’ cost us?” Applebloom asked.

“For ya’ll? Absolutely no charge. If I’m fixin’ it, that means I get to go back to Sweet Apple Acres again. It’s been years since I seen those apple groves, I think that ought’a be payment on its own. Let’s head on out. Nut, Grab the toolset would’ja?” Ficks said, walking out from behind the counter, grabbing his hat and removing his work vest.

“Heh, you’ve still got that ol’ thing?” Big Mac chuckled.

Ficks donned a black cowboy hat. It was dusty and worn out a bit but still retained its shape. “I’d never get rid of it. Not in a million years…” Ficks said with a smile.

The group walked out of the store, and headed on their way to Sweet Apple Acres.

“So, how have things been goin’ round these parts, Mac?” Ficks asked.

“It’s goin’ okay. The farm’s been good to us. Not much has changed since you left, other than lil’ Applebloom now bein’ in the picture. How ‘bout you?” Big Macintosh asked.

“Well, I just got into town the other day, I had every intention to come down here right away, but my plate was absolutely full. Still, this’ll do. Lemme’ tell ya, Manehattan… It just doesn’t feel like home, even if it is where I was born.” Ficks said regretfully.

Applebloom gave Ficks a quizzical look and said, “Likely story! You sure don’t talk like a stallion from Manehattan..!”

“Yeah, I know. But time ‘round this family can change your mannerisms a good bit. Like I said, never did fit in with them Manehattan folk.” Ficks said.

“How come I’ve never seen that hat before, Ficks?” Nut asked. Ficks didn’t notice, but since they had left the store, Nut hadn’t taken his eyes off of it.
Ficks was silent for a second and replied with, “…’Cause this hat is pretty important to me, never wanted to see nothin’ happen to it.”

Applebloom, disinterested, began to strike up a conversation with Nuttanbolt, which gave Mac and Ficks a chance to talk without being listened in on by nosy siblings.

“So what brings you down to Ponyville again?” Mac asked.

“Well to put it quite simply, the family business needed help. ‘Plank’s been gettin’ older, and he really needed help runnin’ the shop. So I gladly volunteered to come down, plus I really wanted to come back to where I considered home anyways. It’s not much more complicated than that.” Ficks said. They approached the gate at Sweet Apple Acres. Ficks looked out at the surrounding area. The farm house stood out in the distance. Next to it was the red barn and beyond that were the apple groves. Ficks sighed happily. “Wow” he said, “It’s just how I remembered it all those years ago, it doesn’t seem like a single thing has changed.”

“Hey Big Maaaac!” A familiar voice shouted, though deeper than Ficks remembered it. He turned around to see an orange mare galloping up to the gate. Her blonde mane flowed behind her and her hat swayed back in the wind as she approached the group. Her emerald eyes glistened in the sunlight. Ficks thought he felt his heart skip a beat. “Granny said you n’ Applebloom had gone into town to get the pump fixed, where ya’ able t-“ she began as she noticed the blue stallion standing next to Big Mac. “FICKS!” she
gasped.

“Applej-AH!” Ficks said, as Applejack gave him a very tight, and slightly painful hug. As rough as the hug was, for some reason he didn’t fight it. His face displayed the most peculiar mix of joy and… pain.

“Oh my gosh I… I can’t believe it you’re actually here. I thought you’d never come back!” Applejack shouted, still gripping Ficks tightly.

“Uh…Jack. Ow?” Ficks said, struggling to breathe.

“Oh gosh, I’m so sorry, I’m just so happy to see you n’ all.” Applejack said as she relinquished her grip on Ficks.

“No, no! It’s fine, that made my day actually. It’s great to see you too Jack. You don’t look like you’ve changed a bit… well…” he choked out his words. ”Well I guess you have grown up a bit since I last saw ya.” Ficks said. He could feel himself turning a little red, though honestly, he had no idea why. “What am I gettin’ all nervous about? Somethin’ ain’t right here.” Ficks thought.

Applejack gave him a playful smile, “Well you’ve certainly done some growin’ as well Sugarcube. And look you’ve still got that ol’ hat I gave you” She said pointing out the black hat he was still wearing. Ficks felt something strange again. Sugarcube; it had been quite a long time since he’d heard her call him that.

“Like I told Big Mac, I’d never get rid of it” Ficks said as he readjusted the hat on his head, “After all, you did give it to me.”

“Yeah, looks like your head finally fit into it too. It looks good on ya’ Ficks.” Applejack said, laughing a little. She looked down and saw Nut standing behind Ficks staring at her with curiosity. “Who’s this lil’ fella?” Applejack asked.

Nut walked out from behind Ficks and introduced himself again. “I’m Nuttanbolt, Ficks’little brother. Everypony just calls me Nut though.” He said in the same prideful tone as before.

Applejack giggled at him. “Well aren’t you just about the most adorable critter I ever done seen.” She said, ruffling his mane. Applebloom glared a little at her. “…Okay maybe the second most adorable…” Applejack said, giving Applebloom an apologetic look.

“So uh… Where’s Granny Smith. She’s still livin’ here ain’t she?” Ficks asked.

“Yeah, she’s in the house. Its great weather we’re havin’, but Ol’ Granny can only stand so much of it. She’s probably inside right now whippin’ us up something for dinner, but what brings ya’ here anyway Ficks?” Applejack asked.

“Big Mac told me ‘bout the broken water pump, and I offered to come down and take a look at it.” Ficks said.

“That’s what Granny said. I had just gotten back from town and needed Big Mac’s help with something. That’s when I’d noticed him and Applebloom went missin’.” Applejack said.

“Wait, you were asking for somepony’s help?” Ficks asked quite sarcastically.

“Yeah, learned my lesson about biting off more than I could chew awhile back…” Applejack said, rolling her eyes.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said, smiling to himself.

“So... ‘bout that water pump? Ficks mentioned.

“Right! Yeah, its been a real big fuss lately.” Applejack said.

“Well then, let’s go take a look at it.” Ficks said with enthusiasm. They began walking towards the pump. Ficks glanced out at the apple groves. The apple trees seemed to go on forever, and the farm seemed to be a lot bigger than Ficks had remembered. It didn’t matter though. He was just happy to be at Sweet Apple Acres again.

“Alright… here it is.” Applejack said.

Ficks looked at the old pump. The red paint was chipping off in a few places and a few of the small parts on it were rusted. Other than that, it looked like it should have been working just fine. He used a wrench to mess with a couple of widgets and removed the lever and top part of the faucet. He then looked inside the tubing.

“Hmmm… Nut. I’m gonna’ need the pliers. Looks like somethin’s stuck in there…” Ficks said.

“Sure thing bro!” Nut replied as he began shuffling through the tool bag.

“How come Nut carries around the supplies?” Applejack asked.

“Well usually I don’t bring Nut along when goin’ out to fix things, but awhile back he insisted that he wanted to be more useful since he was still too small n’ stuff to use the bigger tools. So he started helpin’ out by carryin’ the tools for me. I also helped him learn all the different names and sizes of each tool that we used. He caught on pretty quick. That’s how he ended up gettin’ his cutie mark too. Lemme’ tell ya. You won’t see any other colt grab a tool and have it by your side faster than lil’ Nut here. He’s the best assistant ‘ahem’ best little brother a stallion could ask for. Plus him luggin’ around the tools gives him a lil’ workout every now n’ then.” Ficks said as he chuckled to himself. Applejack nodded in understanding.

Nut handed Ficks the pliers; Ficks held them in his teeth, put the pliers into the tube, grabbed onto something, and pulled. Suddenly, water burst out of the pipe and Ficks ended up covered in water, with an extremely dismayed expression on his face. At the end of the pliers, still held in his mouth, was an extremely saturated apple core. “Aww shoot. My hat!” Ficks yelled in dismay, dropping the pliers on the ground. He quickly pulled off his hat to inspect it. The hat was now soaked in water and began to droop around the edges. Ficks stared at Applejack with guilt.

“Aww don’t worry bout’ it Sugarcube. It’s just water. It’ll dry off.” Applejack said, patting Ficks on the shoulders.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right…” Ficks said, shaking the hat off and then readjusting it atop his head once more. Applejack turned away from Ficks and looked at the apple core on the ground that had been pulled from the pipe.

“How in the hay did that get in there?” Applejack asked, looking at the others. Big Mac simply shrugged, and Applejack spotted Applebloom’s hooves behind Big Mac. She had a pretty good idea who the culprit was.

“Applebloom…” Applejack said disappointed.

“I was just trying to make apple juice. Honest!” She said in a slightly defensive tone.

Big Mac slapped his hoof against his face, and shook his head. “Dangit Applebloom; that ain’t how you make apple juice!” Big Mac said.

Applebloom looked up at her disappointed siblings and apologized with, “I’m sorry… I thought if I put an apple core in there, the water would taste like Apple juice.” in a pitiful, sad tone accompanied by her infamous sad eyed face.

“Applejack, I thought you would’a taught this filly how to make Apple juice by now.” Ficks said.

Applejack shrugged. “I guess the thought never occurred to me.” Applejack replied. Applebloom continued to look at everypony with the saddest expression ever seen.

“It’s impossible to stay mad at her, isn’t it?” Ficks said.

Everypony else nodded. Ficks reassembled the pump and pulled down on the lever to check if it would work this time. Water came gushing out of the faucet and Ficks nodded to himself in satisfaction.

“Well, I guess that takes care of that issue, so… who’s hungry? Applejack asked her company. She could see Applebloom and Big Mac’s eyes light up with attention, but she also noticed Ficks’ reaction to the question. “Say Ficks, would you n’ Nut care to stick around for dinner? I bet Granny whipped somethin’ up real good tonight.” Applejack said in a hopeful manner.

“Oh I couldn’t possibly intrude on your company, I mean I don’t wanna’ be a bother or nothin’.” Ficks said.

“Nonsense, Sugarcube! It’ll be great to have you over again for a family meal. Come on in” she replied. There she went, calling him Sugarcube again…

They moved up to the porch, and into the house. Upon entering the house, Ficks and Applejack removed their hats, which got a quite puzzled look from Nut. “One minute you’re wearing a hat I’ve never seen before, and the next minute you’re taking it off? I don’t get it..!” Nut said, completely confused by his brother’s actions.

“It’s a hospitality thing. It’s rude to wear a hat indoors, you know.” Ficks said to Nut. “Plus I need to let it dry off now”

“Good to see that living in Manehattan hasn’t made you forget your manners, Ficks.” Applejack said.

“There’s a lot here I haven’t forgotten.” Ficks said. Nut was completely confused. His brother seemed different today.

Ficks was surprised at how well furnished the home still was. Family pictures, a painting or two of Sweet Apple acres, a bronzed, “First Apple Tree bucked by ____” trophy plaque for each pony, Applejack’s had a bite mark in it, and the usual, wooden, reliable seating arrangements. One picture that stood out to Ficks was one near the back of the collection, labeled, “Part of the Family” in which he appeared. He had completely forgotten about that photo. The Apple family had taken it the day before Ficks had left town. The Apple Family was a peculiar one, to be honest. You do enough for the family, and in the strangest way they accept you as a member of the family. Especially when you worked with them there for several months.

“Ficks? Oh goodness, look how much you’ve grown since you were a colt!” Granny smith said as she came into the room to meet with the group at the door. Ficks couldn’t give her the type of bear hug he used to when he was little. He was a Stallion now, a decently strong one at that. As such, he gave Granny a much gentler hug. It had, after all, been years since he had seen her. So no doubt she was a little more fragile.

“Aww Granny look at ‘cha. You don’t look like you’ve aged a bit. Lookin’ as pretty as ever.” Ficks said in a flattering tone.

Granny giggled a little, “ Oh Ficks you’re too kind. Well I guess this means we have some guests eating with us tonight, it’s a good thing I made extra.” Granny said.

They all took their seats, and started with some small talk over the various apple-related foods that Granny had made. Ficks had forgotten how good these meals were. He’d also forgotten how much he missed them. “So, Ficks- what did you think of Manehattan?” Applejack asked.

“It might be where I was born, but it never, ever felt like home after I lived here in Ponyville. This town is still home to me.” Ficks said.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said.

“So what is Manehattan like?” Applebloom asked.

“It’s like Ponyville, but HUUUGGEE!!!” Nut remarked waving his hooves above his head to form an arc.

“He remembers it more fondly than I do. It’s a nice place if you can afford it, but it’s all about fitting into cliques. I can’t stand that, myself. Dad fit into the city life perfectly, but despite there being a couple of workshops here and there in Manehattan, I never did much feel accepted. In other words, it’s a great place to be if you’re uptight and wanna’ put your snout up at anyone you consider your lesser. Real pretty at night though, I’ll give it that much.” Ficks said.

“Yeah, Manehattan is certainly somethin’ else with all them city lights” Applejack said nodding in agreement.

“So how ‘bout you guys? What else’s new?” Ficks asked.

“You may or may not know, but Applebloom has gone on some crazy quests to find her cutie mark with two other fillies. It’s all pretty funny really.” Applejack said shaking her head, remembering all the ridiculous antics the trio had pulled.

“Wait a minute; does one of ‘em own a scooter? I remember some filly comin’ into the shop earlier today who couldn’t stop yappin’ about Cutie Marks.” Ficks said.

“Yeah! Scootaloo does! The wheel popped off her scooter the other day and she took it to get fixed.” Applebloom said.

“Oh! So that’s one’a your friends? Who’s the other of you three then?” Ficks asked.

“Sweetie Belle, she’s Ms. Rarity’s little sister. Together, we’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders!” Applebloom shouted.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac sighed. He’d obviously heard her shout that one too many times to count.

“Applebloom, quiet at the table…” Granny said. Applebloom promptly stopped shouting and slumped back in her seat.

“I see… tell me. Who exactly is Miss Rarity?” Ficks whispered to Applejack.

“Trust me, you’ll probably meet her eventually.” Applejack answered.

“Well a friend of the Apple family is a friend of mine. Tell ‘em they can stop by the store anytime, and I’ll fix their stuff; absolutely free.” Ficks said.

“Well gee, thanks! I will.” Applebloom said. The group continued to chat and eat until near dark. It was nice. Ficks hadn’t had a conversation with anypony he considered family for years. It was a good change in pace…

“…So that’s when I said, “Can’t hear ya’, I’m asleep!” Applejack said, laughing with the others about the matter. Ficks looked outside and noticed that the sun had gone down. His eyes darted towards the clock by the sink.

“Aw… heck, would’ja look at the time; I left the store open! I hope I didn’t get any complaints, otherwise Ol’ Hammerplank’s gonna’ have a fit.” Ficks said, eyeballing the clock on the other side of the room in panic.

“I completely understand. Listen, I run an apple stand in Ponyville most days, I’ll see if I can’t try n’ stop by the shop to visit every once n’ awhile. Anyway I’ll walk ya’ home.“ Applejack said.

“Alrighty then; I’m ready when you are! Nut? Come on, we’re headin’ out! It’s been great catchin’ up with ya’ll… Hope to do this again real soon, and I appreciate the hospitality.” Ficks said with a smile. He and Applejack left the table, along with Nuttanbolt. The two grabbed their hats respectively and waited until they were outside when they put them back on. Ficks’ hat had finally dried up and he nodded in satisfaction as he adjusted it on his head. The three started towards to Ponyville, and chatted on the way there. This time Ficks carried the tool bags on his back, as he could clearly see that Nut was in no condition for hauling anything else except his own four hooves. Ficks could see Nut was close to passing out... Probably ate too much of the apple pie.

“So, Applejack- what else’s changed ‘round here for you?” Ficks asked.

“Got myself into the strangest bunch’a misfits you ever done seen, they’re a good bunch though.” Applejack said.

“Really? You weren’t ever the overly social type.” Ficks said.

“Well at first it was circumstance; but we started hanging around more often and soon we found ourselves liking each other more ‘n more. Maybe I should introduce ya’ll to each other sometime.” Applejack said.

“Sounds great. They sure sound like an interesting bunch.” Ficks said.

“You have no idea…” She said. “So, what’s changed for you, other than comin’ back here?” Applejack asked.

“Well, as ya can see lil’ Nuttanbolt over there is the newest addition to my company here. He was born just about as soon as I came back to Manehattan. See, the reason we had to go back… Well, I’ll tell ya’ when we get back to the store, alright?” Ficks said.

“Alright; we’re just about there any whom. Ain’t too far of a walk to Ponyville, is it?” Applejack asked.

“Nah.” Ficks said as they walked in the pale moonlit night. He remembered how much he liked the cool and quiet nights in Ponyville. It was completely different from the sounds of the busy streets in Manehattan. Ficks never got used to it, and was never able to sleep well in that environment.
The three trotted their way into town shortly, and walked into the shop. No complaints were waiting at the doorstep or in the mailbox, to which Ficks sighed with relief. They walked into the shop, and The bell chimed again as the door opened. All the lights were off so either Hammerplank wasn’t back yet or he’d already gone to bed.

“Nut. Head up n’ get ready for bed. I’ll be there in a few.” Ficks said, as Nut did as he was told, and trotted up the stairs.

“So… about ya’lls reason for leavin’?” Applejack asked.

“Which I’m still mighty sorry ‘bout… Well, we’d gotten a telegram ‘bout Mom… She’d been carryin’ a colt and was due pretty soon. Dad would sometimes leave for Manehattan to go check up on her without me, which is why I was able to stay as long as I did in Ponyville. But, anyway, it was… Well, this time it was an emergency. She had gone into early labor. The doctors said she might not make it through; it had been really, really stressful on her…” Ficks stopped. He tried to clear his throat to speak again, but something was holding him back.

“Did she… make it?” Applejack asked with hesitation. Ficks paused for a moment, then looked down at his hooves and kicked at a bit of sawdust on the floor.

“No… she didn’t… Dad blames himself for not being there when he should have, and I told him it ain’t his fault- but he never listened to me; just told me that I didn’t know what I was talkin’ about; that I was just a kid, as usual… So, you see… He now had the burden of lookin’ after two colts at the time, Nut n’ me. He took it harder than anypony else, and only seemed content when he was mixed in with his work, so he hardly paid any attention to us. I ended up having to look after him and raise him myself ‘cause Dad just couldn’t do it. Anyways, after some time, we got word that family down here needed some help, and Dad’s hooves were full… as usual. So, I volunteered to go which was contested endlessly. But I went anyway... I just had to take Nuttanbolt; Dad said to. He knew he couldn’t take care of him if I wasn’t there, ‘Cause he was so darn busy with his work. Honestly I’m glad I never got into the whole accountin’ thing like he did…” Ficks said, removing his hat and putting it on the hat stand. “I just had to get outta’ there. I needed to come back here where I knew I’d be more useful… more free.”

Applejack gave him a hug, and spoke. “I’m so sorry it all turned out that way; that’s so sad. Why ya’ gotta’ tell me stuff like this, Ficks?” Applejack asked.

Ficks looked straight into her eyes.“…’Cause you asked, Jack.” he said rather frankly.

“Is there anything I can do for you Ficks? Anything at all?” Applejack asked

“No it’s fine.” Ficks said, “I think just gettin’ to see you again is all needed.”

She stopped hugging him, stepped back, and spoke again. “I know you’ve gotta’ put that silly colt to bed; and it’s ‘bout time for Applebloom to set down for the night too. We’ve both got things to do, so I guess I should be headin’ out…” Applejack said.

“I understand, Applejack. It’s been great catchin’ up with ‘ya again. I’m really lookin’ forward to tomorrow. I’ll see you later.” Ficks said with a smile.

“See ya’, Sugarcube.” Applejack said as she left Ficks’ home and workplace. There she went, calling him that again.

Ficks looked over at the workbench and stared at the scooter that he still needed to fix. “Guess it’ll have to wait til’ tomorrow.” He muttered to himself. Ficks walked upstairs to his little brother’s room, and opened the door. He was glad that Nuttanbolt had done as he was told and was already in bed, but he’d clearly been waiting for him. “So Nut... what’dya think of everpony today?” Ficks asked him as he walked into the bedroom.

“Well I guess Applebloom is okay, but she sure likes talkin’ about cutie marks a lot. Big Mac is pretty neat but he doesn’t like talkin’ too much... Granny Smith is really nice and her cooking is great, although I think I ate a little too much today.” Nut groaned as he rubbed his stomach.

“Yeah? And what’dya think of Applejack?” Ficks asked Nut again, this time with a little more enthusiasm.

“You sure seem to like her Ficks... tryin’ to impress her n’stuff like that.” Nut replied.

“Hey now, what’re you talkin’ ‘bout?” Ficks questioned in a defensive tone.

“You were actin’ all funny around her.... Do you like her or somethin’?” Nut questioned his older brother in a serious manner.

“Now don’t you go gettin’ funny things in your head Nut. We’re just really good friends n’ that’s it.” Ficks said, hoping Nut would drop the subject altogether.

“Yeah okay...So, how do you know the Apple family so well, Ficks?” Nut asked.

“Right now? Ah, I guess I can tell ya’, if you’re interested in a bedtime story.” Ficks said as he took a seat by Nut’s bedside.

“Yeah! That sounds great. This’ll be a new story I’ve never heard before.” Nut said.

“I guess I just forgot to tell ya’ over the years little guy, didn’t think it was important until now… Well, alright… It all started here in Ponyville, when Dad and me came here on a business trip several years ago, well… Dad was on a business trip, you see…” Ficks said.

* * *

“Well, here’s the shop…” Addemup, Ficks’ dad, said walking them into the store. Addem also had a charcoal black mane like his son, with a true blue coat. His eyes were grey as well. Addem was a mathematician- a mathematical genius, even. His mark was a calculator that on the screen read 3.14. Him and Ficks practically looked the same in almost every way. But personality wise, they were worlds apart.

“This place is pretty neat!” Ficks said, running his hoof through all the nifty doo-dads that he had absolutely no idea what they were for.

“Well I’ll be darned, if it isn’t my genius brother, Addem. Come to finally help your big brother out with his little finance situation eh?” Uncle Hammerplank said as he came walking out of the back of the shop.

“It’s good to see you again ‘Plank. I see you’ve kept the shop in good shape since I last saw it” Addem said as he gave his brother a hug.

* * *

“Ficks. Get to the interesting part!” Nut said.

“Ah! I swear… Alright, fine. Anyway… I was there for a couple of weeks, and I noticed this “Hiring now” sign. It was for Sweet Apple Acres, they had apparently lost a very helpful person, who had runaway to Manehattan. Anyway, with my dad’s consent, I offered my assistance. You see Ol’ ‘Plank had begun showin’ me how to use some of his tools while Dad was busy with the paperwork. So I figured I’d give it a shot and see if I was any good at fixin’ stuff rather than hang around the store all bored n’ such. As you can tell, they accepted my help. Unfortunately… I wasn’t too good at buckin’ apple trees so it was difficult at first.” Ficks said.

“So then what?” Nut asked

“Well, after a couple of weeks working there, I had discovered that I was pretty good at… well you guessed it!” Ficks said, running a hoof next to his Cutie Mark.

“Wrenches?” Nut asked.

“No, ya silly colt! Fixin’ stuff! I had managed to fix the wagon, the plow, the pump, and all kinds of other things… I was really helpful there; then, Applejack returned from Manehattan. Turns out she was the pony who had run away” Ficks said.

“Applejack? Manehattan? So that’s what she mentioned earlier?” Nut said, feeling a little less confused than before.

“Yeah, go figure, eh? City life just wasn’t for her either.” Ficks said.

“Just like you?” Nut Asked.

“Just like me.” Ficks replied.

* * *

“Oh, this darn thing… Just… Won’t… COME… LOOOOOSSSEEE!” Ficks shouted, twisting a wrench with all of his might. The nut fell off; and the plow fell apart. “Finally! Now I can get to cle-“ He was interrupted by Big Mac’s shout into the barn.

“Hey, Ficks! There’s somepony we’d like you to meet!” Big Mac shouted.
An orange filly with a blonde mane tied at the end; same with her tail, trotted into the barn, and gave Ficks a shy smile.

“This here’s Applejack, the silly filly who left for Manehattan a lil’ while back; The one we told ya’ ‘bout?” Granny Smith said, introducing her grand-daughter.

“Anyway, Ficks you’ve been such a great help to the farm an-“

“I get it, I’m not needed anymore…” Ficks said, as he passed Applejack and the rest, and exited the barn. Everypony looked behind themselves, with a confused expression on their face.

“Hey, where you goin’?” Applejack asked the departing colt.

“Home…” Ficks replied with audible sorrow as he kept walking. He proceeded to move towards the gate, saddened that he was no longer required at Sweet Apple Acres; he had just passed the threshold of the gate when he heard somepony shouting behind him to wait up. He knew who it was, and kept walking. She was a fast filly, that one; she caught up to him, and spoke once more.

“You know, it’s a mighty rude to walk out on somepony who’s introducin’ themselves… So, let’s try again. I’m Applejack.” Applejack said to Ficks.

“I’m Ficks and… I’m sorry; I was fillin’ in the hole you left when you went to Manehattan… Now that you’re back, I’m not needed anymore.” Ficks replied.

“Hey now, that’s not true. Nopony ‘round here fixes anything; Hammerplank is the only one and half the time he’s never in the shop anyway. Looks like you’re real helpful to have ‘round here.” Applejack said, attempting to console the sad colt.

“Are you sure I’m still needed?” Ficks asked Applejack.

“Yeah, I’m sure you are! Come on Sugarcube, let’s go ask Granny if you can stay! I bet she’ll even let’cha help with the upcomin’ harvest.” Applejack said, gesturing for Ficks to follow. Sugarcube... That made Ficks smile for some reason. He turned around, and trotted behind Applejack back to Sweet Apple Acres.

A few more months had passed. In that time Applejack and Ficks had learned more about each other. They found that they even had a lot in common. Ficks continued to fix things around Sweet Apple Acres and Applejack even taught him how to properly buck an apple tree.

“Dangit I’m never gonna get those darn apples outta’ that tree!” Ficks shouted as he kicked at a tree he had been bucking at all morning. The apples in it would shake, but none of them would fall out.

“It’s alright Sugarcube. You just gotta practice a lil’ more. You gotta put all your kick into your hind legs and you gotta make sure ya hit the very center of the trunk. Here lemme’ show ya.” Applejack said as she walked up to the tree. Ficks backed off and allowed her to stand where he was a moment ago.

Applejack balanced herself on her front legs and gave the tree a hard kick right in its center. Immediately several apples came loose and fell to the ground. “Now you try.” Applejack said giving him a little nudge. Ficks nodded to her. He took his place again. Ficks tried to balance himself just as Applejack had done. He pulled his hind legs back as far as he could and let out a loud grunt as he kicked with all his might.

His back hooves hit the trunk dead center. The whole tree began to shake and soon a barrage of apples came plummeting towards them. They soon found themselves buried in a pile of apples. Ficks and Applejack popped their heads out of the pile and stared at each other in bewilderment. The two then childishly giggled to each other.

* * *

“So what happened next?” Nut asked.

“Well, you see… Dad’s business trip turned into a really long visit. We were there for a good five or so months, as he kept the business afloat. As such, I continued to help out in Sweet Apple Acres; I even helped with the harvest like Applejack had said… Until we’d gotten word about mom’s situation in Manehattan… We had to go back; Dad n’ I fought about it, boy did we ever… But he pulled the ”I’m your father and I know best” card. ‘Course he never did explain to me then what was wrong with mom. I wish he had... Leaving that farm was one of the saddest days of my life… But I was given a couple of parting gifts, you see… Aside from the good memories.” Ficks said, looking back on the past.

“Like?” Nut asked.

“That hat you saw today, and this here Harmonica…” Ficks said as he brandished a polished, silver harmonica that he had brought from his room.

“Well I get the harmonica but what’s the hat got to do with anything?” Nut asked.

“Hold on ya crazy colt I’m gettin’ to it…” Ficks said.

* * *

“Ficks! Before you go, we want you to have somethin’!” Applejack shouted at Ficks, who was about to step into the carriage with his father in it.

“What’s… what is that?” Ficks asked.
Applejack hoofed over a black hat similar to hers, minus the gap in the front.

“Yeah… Grand Daddy’s ol’ Hat’n’Harmonica… Fixed up a lot of stuff back when he lived here, ran the farm with Granny… And we ain’t never found anypony who’d it be fittin’ to give to, aside from you… We’ll give it to ya’, on one condition…” Applejack said.

Ficks could barely speak; he knew how significant these objects were to the Apple family. He was able to weakly ask, tearing up slightly, “What?” to Applejack.

"Promise you'll come back someday. The farm won't be the same without'cha, We'll miss you, Ficks..." Applejack said, with a sad tone in her voice.

“I… I promise I’ll come back someday. Cross my heart hope to fly, stick an apple in my eye, I promise.” Ficks said with a weak smile.

“I’ll hold you to it. But until then Sugarcube…” She leaned in and gave Ficks a hug. “Good luck out there alright?” Applejack said smiling to him. Ficks began to pull away but Applejack wouldn’t let go just yet. Ficks didn’t try to fight it and let her hug him a little longer.

“Ficks, we need to go now!” Addem shouted from the carriage. Applejack finally let go of Ficks, with the saddest expression imaginable.

“I’m sorry ‘Jack…” Ficks said as he took a few steps back.

“Ficks I’m not going to tell you again. Let’s GO!” Addem yelled. He was getting angry now.

Ficks got into the carriage and the door closed. He watched as he was taken away with his father, and he left Sweet Apple Acres, and Ponyville; unsure as to whether he would ever see it again.

* * *

“And… In that time we lived in Manehattan, you were born. Now, we’re here. And we’re here to stay, alright Nut?” Ficks said.

“That’s a kinda’ sad story, Ficks…” Nut said.

“I know. But I’m back, ain’t I?” Ficks said.

“Say Ficks…” Nut said as he began to sink under the sheets in his bed.

“What is it Nut?” Ficks asked

“What was mom like?” Nut asked.

Ficks thought for a moment then gave Nut a little smile and rubbed his mane. “She was a real nice mare Nut; real pretty. You’ve got her eyes too. And lemme’ tell you, she had some of the prettiest eyes you’d ever seen. The way she would smile always lightened up yer day. She really did love you, Dad, and me with all her heart. She’d be proud to see how you’ve grown up. Still I’m sure she’s somewhere in a better place right now.” Ficks said. Nut didn’t notice, but Ficks was now fighting back a couple of small tears.

“Yeah…okay. Say, could ya play Ode to Joy on the harmonica?” Nut asked.

“Yeah alright sure but then it’s off to bed, ya hear?” Ficks said. He quickly rubbed his eyes.

Ficks began to play the first few notes of Ode To Joy. Within moments, Nuttanbolt was fast asleep.
Ficks got up, went to his room and lay in his bed. He stared out the window for a little bit. It was a full moon out tonight. A handful of stars were scattered across the night sky. He began pondering over today’s events… It was so great to see the Apple Family again. Big Mac was just as chatty as usual, Granny was still her sweet old self, Applebloom was quite a rambounctious little filly but adorable nonetheless, and Applejack…

Ficks lay on his back and stared up the darkened ceiling. There was definitely something different about her. Ficks couldn’t place his hoof on it. He also didn’t know why he’d acted so nervous in front of her today. He’d never done that with her before. Ficks shrugged to himself and turned on his side. He’d have plenty of time to think about it some other day. Though, one particular thought ran through his mind, “Maybe… Nah… She’s just a really good foalhood friend… At least, I think she is. I’m pretty sure… Maybe I’m thinking about it too much; Yeah I just need some sleep…“ he thought. So, he turned out the light, and began to drift off to sleep. Tomorrow, he knew, would be an interesting and eventful day.

To contact the writers of this story...

Jamescameronjackson@hotmail.com

t.schomburg@yahoo.com