An Orange Amongst Apples [Cancelled]

~x~ Chapter 1 ~x~

 

>"ALL ABOARD!"

>Thick black smoke fills the warm, dry Fillydelphian air.

>Passengers hurry as the bells ring, warning them that the train was leaving.

>The luggage handlers are finishing up as you sneak onto the train.

>You lie yourself down on the suitcases and start to sleep for the first time in two days.

>Running from the police is never a tireless job.

>This all had to happen over a sweet roll.

>All you wanted was something to eat.

>And the sweet roll was just sitting there on the window sill.

>All warm and soft...

>You slap yourself for letting your hunger get the best of you again.

>Maybe if you asked for one, the sweet pony would have let you have one.

>But of course, you resorted to stealing.

>How could you help yourself?

>You had been doing it for years since you came to this world.

>It had been merciless to you and you to it.

>Thus is the life of a human in Equestria.

>Your eyes grow heavy as you look out the window of cart.

>Passings of lucious green trees and wide lakes ease your mind.

>The sun begins to set and emits a beautiful warm glow on your face.

>Some rest might calm you down.

>As you fall into a deep slumber, a cart inspector finds you and ushers the crew.

>The ticket gather gives a nudge to wake you up.

>You don't move.

>"What do we do with it?"

>They look at each other and shrug.

>"Did one of the passangers bring it aboard as a pet?"

>The gruffy coal shoveler shakes his head.

>"The pet cart is two more down. This thing looks like a hairless monkey. No one will miss it.

>They all nod in agreement.

>The inspector opens the cart door and signals everyone by waving his hoof.

>They all lift you and throw you out the cart.

>As you hit the first bounce on the ground, you wake up, and not in the nicest way.

>The second bounce leaves behind a huge 'CRACK!' as your side makes contact with the a large boulder.

>There goes two ribs.

>Rolling down the edge of the hill, you scream in agonizing pain.

>By the time you come to a stop, you've lost conciousness.

--------------------------------

>BARK BARK!

>Opening your eyes, you gaze at to the stars outside your window.

>BARK BARK BARK!

>You pull yourself from the covers.

"What in tarnation is going on?"

>Applebloom wearly trots into your room.

>"Sis, what's goin' on?"

>Pulling yourself from the covers, you get up and look out the window.

>Winona is sitting at the front door barking.

>BARK BARK!

>Sluggishly, you walk down the stairs and open the door.

"What's a matter, girl? You wanna come inside?"

>The dog begins to run back and forth within a meter's distance.

>Maybe she wants you to follow her?

>You step outside and Winona takes off towards the edge of the forest.

>Not far behind, you follow her.

>She stops at a strange figure lying on the ground.

>You walk up to this unknown creature and look at it.

>It seems to be injured, what ever it is.

>Did it come from the forest?

>Winona nuzzles the creature, trying to assist it.

>You've never seen such a creature before.

>It doesn't look like it walks on all fours, and isn't that hairy.

>Maybe a new species of monkey?

>Putting your hoove on its side, you nudge it to wake it from its slumber.

>Instead it lets out a terrible moan of pain.

"Winona, keep an eye on this poor thing. I'm gonna get some help."

>You sprint back to the house as fast as you can.

>If you don't hurry, the creatures of the Everfree will get a hold of it and Winona.

>Big Mac and Applebloom are in the small kitchen awaiting your arrival.

>Applebloom jumps up almost instantly at the sight of you coming in.

>"Everything alright Sis?"

>You look at them both as you try to catch your breathe.

>Big Mac raises a brow on his sleepy face.

"Winona found some creature, ah don't know what it is. But it's hurt badly."

>You turn to your older brother.

"We gotta help it. Big Mac, go get the cart."

>He gives a sleepy nod and heads out towards the barn.

"Applebloom, I need you to run to Twilight's. She might be able to help us figure out what this thing is."

>She raises her hoof in salute and hurries out the front door.

>You give a silent prayer, hoping you can help this poor being before it's too late.

--------------------------------

>Waking up was the easy part.

>Dealing with this emence pain from a couple broken ribs?

>Not so much.

>Something sloppy and wet is hitting your face.

>Opening your eyes you see a dog trying to comfort you.

>It knows you're in pain.

>You manage to crack a smile and attempt to scratch behind the dog's ear.

>Your broken ribs decide otherwise that you don't want to.

>The pain strikes up your entire side and you let out a menacing groan.

>The dog whimpers and nuzzles you, possibly as a sign to tell you not move.

>It's best to comply.

>You look up to the sky and see all the stars.

>You never saw these many stars in Phillydelphia.

>It was quite a sight to see.

>They make one realize how insignficant they were.

>Much like yourself, you were a star stuck amoungst many.

>But an odd star, like the North Star.

>One that stuck out and could be noticed from miles away.

>Wait, what are you doing?

>This wasn't the time for reminiscing.

>You're fucking dying man!

>Letting out a heavy sigh, you plant both hands on the ground and attempt to lift yourself.

>Ribs used 'nope'.

>It's super effective!

>Falling right back down to the ground, you agonize in pain.

>There's no way you're getting back up.

>"It's over here y'all!"

>You hear galloping in the distance and attempt to turn your head to see the source of the noise with no luck.

>Looks like you're a dead man, Anon.

>Hopefully they'll end you swiftly and quickly.

>The starry sky is blocked out by multiple heads looking down on you.

>They all look at you, concerned.

>The hatted one pipes up.

>"Any idea what it is Twi?"

>A bright purple light is emitted and you close your eyes from the brightness.

>"I think it's a human. He seems to still be alive."

>She pokes your side and you scream in pain.

>Everyp0ny backs up, not knowing what will come from you.

>You just lie there, hurting.

>They come back to you and the glowing one examines you further.

>"He has fractures in his left rib cage. Look's like he had something impact them hard."

>Her horn glows again and you feel an emense pain on your side.

>You snap to the only reaction you can think of.

>Clenching your fist, you punch the purple horn with an adrenline powered punch.

>A loud yelp is release from it.

>The big one stands on top of your arms pinning you down.

>You struggle to be released from this grip with no success.

>"Twilight, you alright?!"

>The purple horn stands back up and shakes her head.

>You seemed to daze her pretty good.

>The hatted one comes back and glares down on you.

>"She was only tryin' ta help. What did you do that for?"

>Purple horn puts a hoof in front to silence her.

>"It was an instinct. I should have warned him first, this spell can sometimes be very painful to other creatures."

>She moves in again, horn glowing.

>"I'm just trying to help. Please be still."

>You stop struggling and give in.

>There's no way of moving and her mending these bones was possibly the only way of getting better.

>She lowers her horn and begin the treatment once again.

>The pain is too immense.

>You can't take it.

>It's like someone is taking a sledgehammer to your rib cage and striking it at a thousand times per second.

>The stars begin to fade as she continues her healing.

>Everything is dark and the pain is gone.

--------------------------------

>You pace back and forth as Twilight continues to use her healing.

>She's sweating profusely, despite the cool breezes passing by.

>You don't know this creature, why its here, or how it got here.

>But you're still concerned about it's will being.

>It's still a living creature.

"Is he gonna be alright Twi?"

>She continues to heal him and doesn't take a single eye off.

>"He's gonna be alright. He's lost conciousness, but he should be fine."

>She turns to Big Mac.

>"You can get off him now."

>The large stallion releases he weight and moves back.

>Twilight stops using her magic and let's out a heavy sigh.

>"His ribs are fine now, but he should get some rest."

>Letting out a sigh of relief, you grab the cart and pull it up to the motionless human.

"Big Mac, help me lift this fella onto the cart."

>He lowers his head and clamps his teeth on the human's shirt.

>You follow in suit and lift.

>He's big, and heavy as well.

>You both put him on the cart, dragging him back to the barn.

>Carefully placing him on the hay, you cover him in some blankets.

>He's had a rough night, so it was best to leave him be.

>You turn around and look at his face.

>He has bags under his eyes and he's malnuroiused.

>The poor thing has been through much before coming here.

>Hopefully he can find peace in Ponyville.

 

 

______________________________________________________________________________

~x~ Chapter 2 ~x~

 

>A rooster crows as dawn breaks.

>You open your eyes to see sunlight pouring into the room.

>At first, you don't move.

>The warmth of the blanket and rough time from the night might have something to do with that.

>Looking around, you try to figure out where you are.

>There's plenty of hay stacks lying around, a few stables, and feeding bins.

>Putting piece by piece by piece together, its safe to say you're in a barn.

>The rooster crows again.

>You roll your eyes at how cliche that is.

>Grabbing your side, you feel your ribs.

>Something weird has happened; They're back to normal.

>Placing your hands to your sides you bring yourself to a sitting position.

>The heavy pain is no longer there and instead is replaced with soreness.

>That purple unicorn did a good job mending your ribs.

>You shudder, remembering the process of that last night.

>Looking back at it, you feel kind of bad for hitting her like you did.

>'But she deserved it!' a voice tells you in the back of its head.

>'She should have told you she was going to hurt you.'

>She still mended your ribs, so you shake your head to rid of the crazy voice.

>The soreness of your side makes it difficult to get up, but it was not impossible.

>You open the barn doors as the sun plasters your face.

>Shielding your eyes, you look around you.

>Apple trees spread far and wide cross your eyes.

>Splashes of green, red, and yellow cover the trees in a vast array.

>"It sure is something, isn't it?"

>You look down to see a little beige pony at your side and jump.

>No matter how long you been in this world, you'll never get used to them talking.

>She stares at you, awaiting an answer.

>You give her a simple nod and look back out into the field.

>She runs to the front of you and begins to boil up with excitement.

>"Mah name is Applebloom. This here is Sweet Apple Acres, the main source of Apples in Ponyville and all neighboring towns."

>She runs up to a tree and plants her front hooves in the dirt.

>Using all the force in her back legs, she kicks the tree.

>A few apples fall from the branches high branches above.

>You clap for her, impressed that a pony can do that, especially a filly.

>She beams with a smile that could melt the ice off the coldest of hearts.

>Slowly a smile creeps onto your face.

>"What's yer name?"

"My name is Anonymous."

>She crooks her head and try to sync your lip movements.

>"A-noon-uh-mouse?"

>You chuckle at the sight of her frustration.

"You can just call me Anon."

>She give a sigh of relief.

>Maybe that was too much for her?

>Whatever, it's best not to get too in depth with it.

>Something catches your eye.

>You look down at an apple at your foot.

>Bending down, you inspect it.

>No bugs, no bite mark, no sign of pests getting to the apple.

>That's strange, you're pretty sure they don't use pesticides in this world.

>If that was so, then how was this apple so ripe and undamaged?

>You pick up the apple and take a bite from it.

>It gives off a crisp crunch loud enough that would make Doritos jealous.

>Letting it settle in your mouth, you absorb the taste.

>It's the best damn apple you ever had.

>But you can't tell if its because it is really good, or because you're hungry as hell.

>Applebloom watches in horror as you mutilate the poor apple, leaving nothing but the stem and core.

>It feels so good to have something in your stomach after not eating for a while.

>"You gonna pay for that, right?"

>You turn around and see the hatted pony from last night with a bitter look on her face.

>Despair reaches your face.

>Reaching into your pocket, you feel nothing but lint.

"I don't have any money."

>She let's out a heavy sigh and stomps the ground.

>"Then yer gonna have to work for it by helping out in da farm!"

>She walks up to another tree and kicks it as well.

>Unlike Applebloom, a mass majority of the apples from the tree fall.

>A shower of green, yellow, and red fall upon you.

>They begin to hit you, and it doesn't feel like rain droplets; more like baseballs.

>Trying your best to dodge the downfall of pain, you begin to duck and weave from out of under the tree.

>The hatted pony begins to chuckle as she watches this comedic act.

>Suddenly, a sharp pain hits you and brings you to your knees almost instantly.

>Clenching you side, you fall over.

>Your bones may have been mended, but they still ached.

>Applebloom runs over to you to ensure that you are okay.

>"Are y'alright, Anon?!"

>"He'll be fine, Applebloom."

>The hatted pony walks over and hits your right set of ribs.

>You let up and scream in pain.

"What the hell was that for?!"

>She gives you a slick smile and tips her hat.

>"It made you forget the pain on your other side, didn't it?"

>She begins to chuckle and turns around.

>'What a bitch!'

>It's that fucking voice again.

>You shake your head and get up slowly.

>"I want ya to work the west field today. There's some baskets in the barn. I expect ya to be done by sunrise. That is..."

>She tilts her face towards your direction.

>"...Unless you have somewhere to be?"

>A sudden rush of realization hits you and you remember everything before the incident.

>You lived in the streets, nothing to your name.

>Ponies didn't want you working in their shops; they were afraid you would scare customers away.

>You didn't know a single thing about construction work, so that opted out.

>All around, you weren't welcome anywhere.

>But she didn't care how you looked, or what you were good at.

>She was will to give you a try, without looking at those things.

>You shake your head and sigh.

"I have no where to go."

>She begins to head to the house.

>"Good, git to work then. Applebloom, show him the ropes and let him do his job."

>Applebloom jumps up with glee.

>"You got it sis!"

>She scurries over to the barn and brings out a cart of baskets.

>You both begin to head towards the west field, a very small part compared to the rest.

>Applebloom begins to place the baskets around the tree underneath the parts with heavy bushels.

>You clear your throat and look towards her.

"Listen, I have a question to ask."

>She perks her head like a confused dog.

>This question had been eating at you since you started heading towards the field.

"Does that hatted pony hate me?"

>Her eyes lower and reach back to yours.

>"I don't think so. I think she might be upset that ya hurt Twilight last night, but she wouldn't hold that against ya. Ya was just merely pretectin' yerself."

>She takes another basket and places it under the tree.

>"She's usually is hard on colts. She says that's the only way ta make them inta stallions."

>Placing the last of basket down she turns to you and nods.

>"Enough of that though, time to git ta work!"

>You look at the tree and think.

>How are you supposed to get them down?

--------------------------------

>Your sister triumphantly enters the house.

>Taking another apple fritter, you bite into it.

>Applejack may be good at apple bucking, but damn was she a good cook as well.

>She walks up, grabs a piece and bites down.

>Turning to you, she sees you're staring at her and automatically gets frustrated.

>"What?"

>You turn back to your fritter and take another bite.

"What'd ya do with him?"

>She take another bite with an aggregated expression.

>"I put him ta work is what I did."

>You place the apple fritter on your plate and look at her.

"Ya sure ya should be doin' that? He just recovered from a bad injury."

>She slams the apple fritter down and glares at you.

>Her face scrunches up from it.

>"Big Mac, I ain't having no freeloaders on ma farm. He works, or he goes."

>You shake your head.

>Headstrong as always.

>You finish the fritter and leave your dish in the sink.

>As you're walking out, Applejack pipes up.

>"Can ya do me a favor, and check up on him and Applebloom? They're out in the West field. I don't want nothing to happen to 'em."

>You let out a smirk and nod.

>Headstrong, but caring.

>Making way down to the west field, you see Applebloom and the human in the distance.

>She already has the baskets set up and is explaining the ropes.

>You stay a distance so they can't see you.

>"All you gots ta do is hit the tree hard enough ta shake it. The apples will fall right down."

>The human lifts its leg up and kicks the tree.

>No success.

>Applebloom interjects.

>"No, ya gotta plant your in the ground and lean your weight inta the kick!"

>He gives Applebloom a bewildered look, but attempts anyway.

>The human gets down on his forelegs, lifts his backside up, and kicks the tree.

>A single apple falls into the basket.

>Applebloom looks at it and shrugs.

>"Well, it's a start..."

>You begin to make your way toward the two when Applebloom notices you.

>"Big Mac!"

>She hurries to you and bounces excitedly.

>"Can you show Anon how to buck?"

>You stand there and ponder.

>If you do, he might feel intimidated and not like you since you are clearly stronger.

>On the other hand, he might not be intimidated, but feel defeated.

"Nope."

>She looks at you with concern.

>"Why not?!"

>You shake your head and try to come up with something.

"Apple bucking ain't about kickin', it about gettin' apples."

>Applebloom looks at you and suddenly her face lights up.

>"So what yer sayin' is, Anon has to find his own way to get the apples. Something that works out his own way!"

>She wraps her forelegs around you and gives a hug.

>"Yer a genius Big Mac!"

>You nod your head and agree.

>You merely meant to say the apples have to hit the ground, but it made you look smarter if you went with what she said.

>Anon scratches his chin and looks up.

>He backs up and begins to run towards the tree.

>Using all the force in his legs, he kicks off the truck.

>Pieces of bark go flying along with himself as he gains air.

>He wraps his forelegs around the branch and holds himself.

>Using his weight, he shakes his body in a violent matter, release the apples from the branch.

>They begin to rain down on the floor and buckets.

>The human lets go and comes down to earth, but holds his side.

>Applebloom jumps up and down with excitement.

>"That was amazing, Anon! Right big brother?"

>It was creative, to say the least.

"Eeyup."

>"It sure was something."

>You all turn around to see Applejack lying across a tree.

>She always had a way of sneaking up on people.

>Laying her hat the ground, she gets up and walks over to Anon.

>"It may not be as fast as buckin' 'em, but it'll get the job done."

>She nudges him on the leg and suddenly her smile dissipates.

>"But ya still got a lot of work to get done. If ya can, get five trees done by the end of the day and bring the baskets ta the storage silo."

>She begins to walk back towards the barn again.

>"I'll consider that payment and let you be on your way."

>You shake your head and turn to Anon.

>He has his head fixed on the tree with a frown fixated on it.

>Shaking his head, he runs to the tree again and continues.

>He's got heart, gotta give 'em that.

--------------------------------

>You can't even see your hands.

>The night's moon is emitting brightly, but these trees just prevent you from see it.

>You're on the fifth tree, but this last branch is out of reach.

>No matter how fast you run, no matter how hard you kick, there's no way of reaching it.

>'You don't have to finish it. Just leave. They won't miss you. No one does.'

>Looking at the last branch, you think to yourself.

>Its like my past life; out of reach.

>Your friends, your family; none of them miss you.

>That's why you did it.

>That's why you're here.

>You lost the one thing in life that made you feel whole, and then it was taken from you in the blink of an eye.

>And now you're in this world, where there's nothing to live for as well.

>Falling on your ass, you look up and feel a tear roll down your face.

>No one to live for, not even yourself.

>'You should just end it, Anonymous. It will be no different.'

"What do I have to live for? No one will miss me."

>"We will."

>You turn to see Applebloom with Applejack.

>Applebloom has a look on her face that make the toughest of men cry.

>It's then you realize that you are, indeed, crying.

>Wiping the tears from your face, you slowly stand up.

>Turning your back to them, you let out a heavy sigh.

"Applejack, I can't do it. I'm a failure."

>She stares you down and shakes her head.

>"With that kind of attitude, ya won't make it anywhere."

She walks up to the tree and bucks it.

>The apples fall down and gently land in the basket.

>"How do ya expect ta do things that are impossible without the help of others?"

>She paces herself to you and places a hoof on your shoulder.

>You look up and are instantly mesmerized.

>Those eyes.

>Those deep green eyes.

>They warmed your heart to the core.

>A smile crawls on your face and one to hers.

>Applebloom, not wanting to be left out, jumps onto your lap and wraps her hooves around your neck.

>She gives a tight hug, one not expected from a small filly.

>Applejack pulls her hoof back and Applebloom releases her grip.

>"We still need ta get these apple back ta the barn."

>You place the baskets on the cart and grab both reigns.

>Walking back, as Applebloom continues you babble about cutie marks, Applejack walks along side of you.

>"We can use the extra help on the farm. I'll let ya stay in the barn and pay ya for your help. Sound like a deal?"

>You feel something you haven't felt in a very long time.

>A reason to live.

>Nodding your head, you grin from ear to ear.

"That would be great."

 

 

______________________________________________________________________________

~x~ Chapter 3 ~x~

 

>Another day, another bit.

>It's your day off from working the fields with the Apples.

>You decide to rest under a tree by the entrance to the farm.

>The sun shines with a nice breeze to boot.

>You couldn't ask for a more perfect day.

>A shadow over comes the warm sunlight you were basking in.

>You look up to see Applejack beaming down on you.

>Leaning back to your comfy position, you pull out your flask and take a sip.

"What's up?"

>She takes a seat next to you and props her hat down to cover her face.

>"Nothing much, ah just thought we'd all take a rest and have a relaxin' day."

>Putting her hoof out, she motions for the flask.

>You hand it over as she takes a swig.

>She breathes a dry sigh and hands it back.

>"Its been a couple of months since ya arrived. How ya liking the farm life?"

>Taking another sip, you look to her.

"It's a lot better than what I went through before."

>She raises a brow.

>"Ya know, ya never did tell me what happened before ya showed up."

>Looking at the flask, you down the rest of it.

>You were going to need it to let this one out.

>With a disgruntled exhale, you begin.

"I was living in Fillydelphia before I came here. I tried working here and there to just make a living. Not many places were willing to take me in."

>The sun continues to raise as you rant on.

"I was an outsider, not from their place. It was only natural they shunned me."

>Applejack lifts her hat and eyes you.

>"So what did ya do for a living?"

>You shake your head, remembering everything that happened.

>It was best just to keep it mild, she didn't need the full details.

"I was homeless. I ate from trash cans, I stole, I did what I needed to survive."

>She shakes her head.

>"That ain't no way to live. Nop0ny deserves that, even if they ain't a pony."

>A frown forms widely on your face.

>There was so much more you wanted to tell her, but if you did, you jeopardized your current living standard.

>If she knew the past, you would not be welcome there.

"Yeah, so I decided to sneak onto a train heading toward Vanhoover. I was woken up with my ribs being cracked and the rest is history."

>Rubbing your side, you remember that pain.

>Applejack's face shows she hasn't forgotten either.

>"Well, even though it wasn't the best way to make it here, I'm glad ya showed up. The extra help on the farm is mighty useful."

>She nudges your shoulder with her hoof.

>A smile stretches across your face, her face following in turn.

>It seems that's what she wanted.

>You stand up and stretch your arms out.

>She lays her head back and clears her throat.

>"Ya know, ya changed since ya first came here."

>You raise your brow.

>Was that a compliment or an insult?

>She notices the look of confusion on your face and blushes before lowering her hat to hide it.

>"Ya grown into quite a stallion."

"Man."

>"Whatever, ya get the point."

>You chuckles and she soon joins in.

>Applejack has really grown on you.

>Everyday you work your ass off, but only because she drives you to.

>And the result was you body, one chiseled by the gods themselves.

>Maybe...

"Hey Applejack?"

>She lifts her hat up and looks at you.

"If it isn't much trouble, you think you and I could sit down and have a drink?"

>She grins before lowering her hat again.

>"Ah don't see why not. Ah'll meet ya in the barn at around eight, sound good?"

>You nod.

"That'd be perfect."

>Making your way towards town, you head towards the library.

>It's been your usual place for a while now.

>Even though you've made amends with Twilight, it was still awkward to talk to her.

>You did kind of deck her in the face.

>As you walk in Spike takes notice.

>"Hey Twilight! Anonymous is here!"

>Walking up to the little dragon, you extend your fist out and he pounds it.

>The little guy can be a pain the ass some times, but he was good.

>Twilight walks down the stairs and greets you with a warm smile.

>"Hello Anonymous, how are you?"

"I'm fine. Any news yet?"

>She shakes her head in disappointment.

>"I haven't been able to find anything. I've tried all the books in the library and the ones in the shops in town. No luck."

>You sigh and feel defeated.

"Well, thanks for you help. I really appreciate it."

>She stops for a moment and thinks.

>"I might be able to ask the princess. She might know how to perform a spell of that caliber."

>Your eyes widen from this news.

>You could only pray to god that this princess could help.

>Spike looks at both of your, confused.

>"What are you guys talking about?"

>Twilight shoots a 'mind your business' look at Spike, but you clear the question.

"I've been having 'dreams', if you will, but they feel as if I have lived them before. I asked Twilight here if she could find a spell that could find out what they were."

>Spike looks at you uneasy.

>He runs to a shelf and opens a book before looking to you.

>"Here's something I read a while back, and I quote, 'To fiddle with a p0ny's past is fickle, for he should worry about the present.'"

>Slamming the book shut, he puts the book back.

>You chuckle.

"Let me tell you a quote then. 'You are always free to change your mind and choose a different future, or a different past.'"

>Spike's mouth gapes open.

>He didn't expect that.

>Turning to Twilight, you bow.

"I will take my leave. If you can back to me about what the princess says, please let me know immediately."

>She giggles and waves to you goodbye.

>You walk out and shake your head.

>It was only a quote.

>*CRASH*

>You look over in the direction of the loud noise.

>It's coming from over in Sugarcube Corner.

>Walking up the pastry shaped store, you peek inside.

>"He's in this town! I know it!"

>A scruffy looking stallion, wearing a necktie and sunglasses is yelling at the Cakes.

>There's a table thrown across the room, protruding out of the wall.

>"He owes money and I'll turn this town to hell if you don't tell me where he is!"

>Mrs. Cake is behind the counter holding the screaming twins, crying, herself, out of mercy.

>Mr. Cake stands between them, holding his ground.

>It's then you recognize the stallion.

>His name was Drudge, one of the lackeys for the loan shark you borrowed money from once.

>This could only mean one thing.

>There was a snitch town.

>But, you had to worry about that later.

>Right now, the Cakes needed you.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>"Either you're gonna tell me where this shit brain is, or I'm gonna have to get physical."

>Your wife and children's crying could be heard behind you.

>You weren't a fighting kind of stallion, but Celestia be damned if you were going to let this chump even touch a hair on their manes.

>This guy wanted a human, meaning only one person.

>Anonymous.

>The thought of giving him up to this guy crossed your mind, but you know how p0ny like him work.

>They get what they want and more.

>There was no way you'd betray Anonymous either.

>He wouldn't do it you.

"You listen here. We told you already we don't know anything about this 'hoo-mun'. Now please, leave my store!"

>The creep rubs his muzzle with his hoof and smirks.

>"You must think I'm stupid or something. I heard you say his name. You know him."

>Right at the entrance, you notice something move.

>You peer over and see Anonymous, holding a 2×4 in his hand.

>He signals for you to be quiet by pressing his hoof... hand against his nose.

>You regain eye contact with the prick, a smile infesting your face.

"Fine, I'll tell you where he is."

>The stallion's face reaches a state of utter confusion.

>He eyes you worriedly.

>Mrs. Cake covers the eyes of the two little one and her own.

>"Finally see what's good for you, ey?"

>Anonymous extends the wood piece over his head and rears back.

"Oh yes, it's been a while. I haven't been to a baseball game since I was a colt."

>The stallion has completely lost you.

>"What in the hel--"

>Anonymous cracks the lumber across the back of the stallion skull.

>The wood snaps the instant it makes contact and catapults across the room.

>The stallion hits the ground and lays in a fetal position, holding it's head.

>"You mother bucker!"

>Anonymous rears the remainder of the 2×4 to finish the deal, but you put your hoof in the way.

>He stops, and looks to you.

"If you do that, who ever sent him will just send more p0nies and cause a bigger ruckus."

>Anonymous nods in an agreement.

>He lifts the stallion by the tie and stares coldly into his eyes.

>Taking a pouch from his pocket, he places it in the stallion's pocket.

>He throws the stallion on the ground, who winces back against a wall.

>"Tell him I'll have his money and to stay away from here if he knows what's good for him."

>The stallion bolts off out the front door, not looking back.

>Anonymous lets out an annoyed sigh and proceeds to remove the table sticking out of the wall.

>You turn to see your wife and kids recollecting themselves.

>Trotting over, you check up on them all.

"Are you okay Sugarlumps? How are the children?"

>She kisses the two foals who are now asleep on the forehead.

>"I think they had too much excitement for one day. I'll put them to bed."

>She begins to head up the stairs as you turn to Anonymous.

>"Listen, I'm really sorry about this Mr. Cake. I don't even know why he would come to you of all places."

>You sit down and look at him sternly.

>"Well, he came in for a bran muffin and started to eat. My wife made mention of your name and he snapped."

>Anonymous puts on a face that could out beat a puppy any day.

>"I apologize. Listen, I'll be sure to keep you out of this and pay for the mess."

>He points at the gaping hole in the wall.

"I'm not concerned about the wall, I'm concerned about you. How did you get into this mess?"

>Anonymous slowly shakes his head.

>"That's a story for another time, I'm afraid. I will explain it, it's the least I can do, but right now I have bigger problems to worry about."

>Understandable.

>He did now have no where safe to stay, so it was best to let him take care of his problem.

"Alright. And listen, don't worry about the wall. Just make sure you stay safe, alright?"

>He nods, before heading out.

>That poor boy has dug himself a hole only he can get out of.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

>As you walk outside, you notice the orange hue in the sky.

>The sun was beginning to set and you didn't have much time.

>Walking up the liquor store, you begin to open the door when you remember.

>You have no money.

>You just gave up your savings to Drudge.

>There was no way of getting anything from this point.

>Feeling defeated, you shuffle away from the door.

>A sudden tug is felt at your pants.

>You turn around to see Twilight looking up at you.

>"Hey, listen. I saw what you did over there."

>She points towards Sugarcube corner.

>Your heart drops.

>If she tells Applejack, then it will only get worse.

>She sees the worried look in your face and smiles.

>"Don't worry, I'll keep it quiet."

>You let out a relaxed sigh.

>She hands you five bits and beams at you.

>You give her a puzzled look.

>"Well, I saw you give all your money to that stallion, so I know you have nothing right now. Applejack told me of your little... 'get together' tonight."

>She begins to giggle.

>You follow in turn and shake your head.

"You have no idea how grateful I am that you did this for me. I already owe you too much as it is."

>Wrapping your arms around her neck, you give her a tight hug.

>She returns the gesture and smiles.

>After your thank yous and goodbyes, you walk inside the store.

>Looking at the wines, you carefully go through them.

>None of them appeals to you, not because of the types or years, but because this wouldn't be the stuff Applejack would drink.

>She was a pony of strong taste, so you need something to match.

>A shiny shimmer glistens out of the corner of your eye.

>You turn to see a bottle of Northern Comfort.

>'Anon! Take me! You know our love be true!' it screams to you.

>You slowly walk up to the bottle and grab it.

>The owner of the store walks up to you and smiles.

>"Ah! I see you have a strong taste, sir. That bottle right there is the finest liquor for a burly one as yourself."

>Looking at the hazelnut colored bottle, you turn to the stallion.

"How much for it?"

>He clears his throat and keys you.

>"For you, eight bits."

>Your face drops.

>It did seem too good to be true.

"I only have five bits. Any chance I can strike a deal with you?"

>The owner shakes his head.

>"That's way too low of a price. I'm afraid I can't sell you it."

>He snatches the bottle from your hand and goes behind the counter.

>"I can, however, get you something else if you wish."

>That bottle would have been perfect.

>There's nothing in here that would bring the face you wanted to see on Applejack's face.

'Make him give it to you for that price.'

>That voice again.

'He's so much smaller than you, you could easily intimidate him.'

>Shut up voice.

'Imagine the look Applejack will have on her face when you give her that bottle.'

>Your heart sinks.

>It's right.

>She would be so happy to taste that sweet drink.

>You slam your fist on the counter and glare at the owner.

>He jumps back, fear in his eyes.

"Listen here, buddy. I know its bullshit that that bottle is eight bits. I'm not stupid."

>He looks around the shop for help, but nop0ny is in sight.

>"Sir, I think you're getting out of con--"

>You slam the counter again, this time with enough force to make the bottles jump along with their owner.

>Leaning in closer, you bring yourself to his face.

>He begins to sweat profusely, his eyes unable to maintain contact with yours from fear.

"Five. Bits."

>The owner hands you the bottle without saying a word.

>Placing the five bits on the counter, you smile and make your way out.

"Thank you sir."

>Closing the door behind you, you look at the bottle in your hand.

'See, was that so hard?'

>Shaking your head, you eradicate the voice inside your head.

>There was no chance of going back to that store.

================================================================================

>As you set up the hay bales, you keep looking at the barn doors.

>No sign of her yet.

>You pull the bottle out of you satchel and place it on the table you made out of hay bales.

>Sitting down on the bales for seats, you take a deep breathe.

>Tonight, you would tell her everything.

>To explain why you were really on that train, why you were running away, and why you couldn't stay for long.

>*KNOCKKNOCKKNOCK*

"Come in."

>The barn door creaks open slowly and your eyes can not fathom what you see.

>Applejack is wearing what seems to be makeup.

>Her hair is also done in a nicely combed ponytail. [spoiler]Ironic, no?[/spoiler]

>The makeup, however, can not hide her blushing cheeks.

>"H-howdy Anon."

>You smile, trying your best to contain a laugh.

>It's not the makeup or the hair that's funny.

>It's the fact that she's so embarrassed from the get up.

"You look nice, Applejack."

>She turns her face, now a thick beet red color.

>"Thank ya kindly. Rarity said you'd like it..."

>Should have guessed that she would be the culprit behind this.

>You smile and gesture for her to take a seat on the hay bale opposite you.

>She takes a seat and turns her head away.

>You can't help but smile; she's acting so cute.

>Cracking open the bottle, you grab a glass and fill it with ice.

>You pour the bitter-sweet liquid and place a slice of apple as garnish.

>Handing her the cup, she takes a sip, and perks up.

>"Is this here Northern Comfort?"

>You nod.

>It figures she'd be able to distinguish the taste from other liquors.

>A small smile forms on her face as she drinks from the glass.

>You pour yourself a glass and take a swig.

>The burning sensation slides down your throat as you ingest it.

>"This is some expensive stuff. Ya didn't have to go all out on the occasion of drinkin' with me."

>Shaking your head, you prod a finger at her.

"Quite the opposite. I'm here to take you for everything, the least I can do is give you something worthwhile."

>She begins to scratch at the make up and her hair.

>It looks... Uncomfortable.

"Here."

>You take off your shirt and hand it to her.

"Go ahead and wipe that makeup. It doesn't look like you're enjoying it."

>She blushes and wipes it off to reveal her beautiful, natural face.

>She removes the bow-tie around her ponytail and releases her long, flowing mane of golden blonde hair.

>Looking at you, her face turns completely red.

>Down the rest of her drink, she slams in on the table.

"Thanks. Let me get another one."

>You pour her another glass of Northern Comfort.

>Finishing your own, you down the cup and pour yourself one.

>After about six more glasses, you look around.

>The awkward silence hangs like a horrid scent.

>"So what's the real reason ya brought me out her?"

>You look over and see her eyes are bloodshot.

>She's completely gone.

>"Well, I called you here today because there was something I had to tell you."

>Suddenly she jumps onto the hay bale table, sliding herself across.

>"Oh, ya don't gotta tell me nothin', Anon. I know everything. It's pretty obvious."

>Your heart drops to your stomach.

>Did she know already?

>Did somep0ny tell her?

"I-is it?"

>She crawls closer to, her heavy breathe pressing across your face.

>"Come on, Anon, I ain't stupid. Ya ask a pretty girl to come over to yer place and have a few drinks. Ya buy a fancy bottle of booze. It's plainer the color of Granny's panties."

>Gross thought in your head.

>ERASEERASEERASE

>There is now a mere centimeter between your face and her's.

>She stares deeply into your eyes, as if lost for an eternity.

'Kiss her.'

>NOT NOW VOICE.

'It's her, the girl from your dreams.'

>Looking closely, you can see the resemblance.

>The sharp, crisp green eyes.

>The look of desperation in her eyes, not from wanting you, but wanting someone to be there for her, someone to tell her everything was going to be okay.

>Your hand slides slowly across the back of her neck up to her mane.

>Her breathe grows faster and heavier.

>"Anon..."

>*BOOM*

>The barn doors blast open and you break apart from Applejack.

>Turning to the blast, you see Twilight and another pony.

>Something about this other pony seemed... off.

>She was a unicorn, but had wings, with a dark blue and black coat.

>"Anonymous, I came as fast as I... Could?"

>Twilight looks in awe at the scene in front of her.

>You were shirtless and Applejack had her hair in a mess, both of you on the ground.

>Standing up, you brush yourself off.

"Let's try this another time, okay?" you whisper to her.

>She simply nods and gallops past the two.

>Twilight begins to blush and turns to the strange pony.

>"I'm sorry if I interrupted something..."

>You wave it off.

"It's fine, don't worry about it."

>The pony clears her throat and Twilight jumps.

>"Oh, right. Anonymous, this is Princess Luna."

>She extends her hoof out.

>"Charmed."