Applejack awoke particularly early this morning. Luna's night conquering moon had at last yielded its might and had lowered and disappeared into the east horizon as Celestia's sun began to creep steadily from the west. The sky was still a dominantly a light purple now mingled with a dark blue with a faint, fiery, yellow orange hue on the east horizon. Sweet Apple Acres was still bathed in the predominate darkness of the pale twilight. All creatures of the orchard were still under the spell of rejuvenating sleep. All except that blonde maned, freckled faced, orange farm mare.

Applejack laid there on her bed, her covers over her body, her hair unhindered by a tie and fell freely down her back. She was laying on her side, her body facing the window with her emerald green eyes open with a weary, misty, gaze as she stared out of her window. She laid there, motionless, while her mind constantly ran about in an almost infinite array of thoughts.

"This day again…'' Applejack finally spoken, her usual, friendly, southern accented voice now holding a tone of sadness and reluctance.

In her mind, an image of a earth pony stallion and mare appeared and Applejack quickly pinched her eyes shut and gritted her teeth and tensed her body as a single tear escaped her eye and rolled down her cheek. He body began to shake as she thought about those two ponies. Finally after what seemed like an eternity, Applejack finally relaxed her body as she opened her eyes, regaining that weary expression she woke up with.

Applejack was reluctant to get up, but with all her strength, she willed her body to sit up and threw the covers off her. She brought her hind legs over the edge of her bed as she sat on the edge, her misty veiled eyes looking out the window. All she could think about was the day, the day it happened…this day and she brought a hoof over her chest as she closed her eyes.

"Celestia give me strength ta make it through this day,'' Applejack prayed softly to herself.

After a moment or two, Applejack got out of her bed and feel on all fours as she made her way out of her room. She walked into the hallway and made her way towards the stairs. As she passed Apple Bloom's rooms, Applejack stopped abruptly as she heard the faint, but sure enough sound of sniffing coming from the filly's room.

"What in tarnation?'' Applejack thought to herself quizzically as she opened the door.

She poked her head into the room to see Apple Bloom curled up into a ball on her bed, her back facing Applejack. The older mare could hear the undeniable sounds of sniffing and crying coming from the little filly. "Apple Bloom?'' Applejack spoke out in concern, entering her room and making fast haste to her sister.

"Applejack?!'' Apple Bloom responded, whipping her head towards Applejack in surprise.

"Apple Bloom, what's wrong?'' Applejack asked as she made her way to Apple Bloom's bed.

Apple Bloom quickly whipped her head away from her sister as she lifted her body. "N-Nothing! I'm fine!'' Apple Bloom sniffed, whipping her eyes of the tears she was shedding.

Applejack tilted her head a bit, but looked onto her sister with a dreary, concerned gaze. She sat upon the bed next to the little filly and put a reassuring hoof on her shoulder. Apple Bloom looked at Applejack with a forlorn gaze, tears still in the corners of her eyes. Applejack then smiled sadly as she spoke in a comforting tone.

"C'mon sugarcube, you know you can talk ta me about anything.''

Apple Bloom didn't responded at first. After a moment or two, Apple Bloom then turned her head and muttered with a slight frown. "It's dumb.''

"C'mon, tell me,'' Applejack said, waiting to hear what was troubling her little sister so.

There was a brief silence between the two sisters until Apple Bloom finally spoke. "It's just…Ms. Cheerilee gave my class a project ta do about our family tree.''

Applejack smiled slightly at the response. "Why that sounds like a mighty interestin' project Apple Bloom. But, what's so bad about it? You know as much as I do that the Apple Family is the best family around these parts.''

"I know that,'' Apple Bloom muttered, her frown growing deeper. "I know that our family has a fascinating history. I know that our family has a lot of great ponies in it. I love every single one of them, including my favorite cousin Babs, but…''

As Apple Bloom trailed off at her last words, Applejack looked at her quizzically.

"But what hun?'' Applejack asked.

Apple Bloom then crossed her forelegs and rested her head in them as she continued.

"It's just…every other pony in my class well be able to tell about everypony in their family cuz' they'll actually have everypony in their family.''

At this Applejack gave a faint gasp before her face fell in the most dismal of dread, knowing full well what her sister was getting at. Apple Bloom continued to speak as tears slowly started to form back into her eyes.

"Diamond Tiara will have her dad, Pip will be able to talk about his mom, Sweetie Belle her mom, Twist, Sunny Daze, Dinky…t-they'll all have their parents ta put on their tree and talk about.''

A small, extremely sad smile formed on Apple Bloom's face as Applejack listed with hurtful eyes. "And I remember seein them at Family Appreciation Day. They all seemed so…so happy together. It just seemed so…right. That day and this project I have ta do then got me thinkin' about ma' and pa'.

Apple Bloom's face then fell as her tears started roll down her face. "I-I can barely remember their faces. I hardly knew them before they passed-an I know…I-I-''

Apple Bloom's emotions finally gotten the better of her and she began to sob, "I'll never get the chance!''

Before Apple Bloom could even finished, Applejack already had tears in her eyes and she quickly scooped her little sister up in her forelegs. "Apple Bloom,'' Applejack uttered tearfully as she tried to console her weeping sister. As Applejack began to rock her sister back and forth, the door creaked open an Applejack looked up in alarm to see Big Mac standing in the doorway, a deeply saddened look on his face with tears in his green eyes. Applejack just gazed at her brother as tears escaped her eyes. Big Mac said nothing and he quickly went over to his two younger sisters and wrapped his forelegs around him as the three Apple siblings were now brought in for an embrace, tears flowing down each of their faces as they shared the pain of the loss that fate had decreed for them to bear.

Quentin woke up to the sound of a rooster crowing. It has been two days since the ceremony in the town square, which meant that today marked his sixth day here in Equestria. The stallion yawned as he sat up in his bed. The clock read 8:00 am. The sun shone through the window as Quentin stretched and letting out a sigh as his back cracked.

"Well, another day in the ol' salt mines,'' Quentin smirked as he got out of bed.

He went out the room and headed downstairs and when he went into the living room, he saw Applejack, Big Mac, Apple Bloom and Granny Smith sitting together on the couch. They seemed to be drearily looking through a book of some kind, but when Quentin entered the room, they all whipped their heads up with shocked expressions.

"Quentin!'' Applejack gasped in surprised as she and the rest tried to whip their eyes. "Well howdy there Quentin. Did ya sleep well?'' Applejack greeted, forcing a smile.

Quentin noticed their melancholy gazes as he came in and spoke with concern. "Hey Applejack, everyone. Yeah I slept great but, is everything ok?''

Granny Smith looked at the stallion with a solemn smile.

"Why of course we're ok Quentin. Why wouldn't we be?''

"Well, it just seemed like when I came in, you all seemed pretty down about something,'' Quentin answered, walking towards them.

Applejack walked forward, he smile still showing. "Oh that? It was nothing. Jus' looking over the family album. We were jus' goin' over the memories, some good, some sad.''

As Applejack spoke, her face fell in sorry. Seeing this, Quentin lowered his head as he spoke sympathetically. "Oh…''

"But don't you think nothin' of it Quen. We're fine, honest,'' Applejack smiled again, putting a hoof on her friend's shoulder.

"Eyeup!'' Big Mac said with a tight smile.

"Yeah, we couldn't be better!'' Apple Bloom agreed.

Quentin looked at each of them uncertainly, but seeing their smiles, he to formed a faint one and nodded.

"Alright Applejack, if you guys say so.''

Applejack grinned. "Well I bet you're jus' starvin'? How does some flapjacks, eggs, an' toast sound?''

Quentin nodded with an eager smile as he licked his lips. "You bet AJ. I love me some pancakes.''

Applejack chuckled, '' ''Well let's get ready ta eat up then. How bout ya head on into the kitchen? We'll be in there in a bit.''

Quentin nodded and proceeded into the kitchen to prepare for breakfast. When the transformed human went through the wooden, swinging doors and out of sight, Applejack turned to her family as her face fell in fraught.

"Listen everyone, I know that today is the hardest day we have ta go through, and I know it will hurt and be powerfully difficult, but we need ta try ta keep in high spirits now that Quentin's here.''

Big Mac, Granny Smith, and Apple Bloom looked at each other with sadly before looking back at Applejack.

"We know Applejack. But it sure as sugar won't be an easy task.'' Big Mac spoke solemnly with a slightly bowed head.

Apple Bloomed nodded as she added glumly. "Plus it the day, which means that ma' and pa' are gonna be on my mind all day, especially with that project I have ta do.''

Granny Smith brought the little filly in closer to her in comfort to prevent her from crying.

"I know the pain hurts little one, but Applejacks right. We can't burden Quentin with the sorrows of our family's past. So we need ta keep our chin's up while he's around.''

Applejack sighed sadly and nodded, '' Exactly. If he knew, he'd probably tried his best ta empathize with us, even though he could never understand the way we feel. It's a pain I wouldn't wish on anypony.''

After a brief silence, the Apple Family took a few deep breaths to compose themselves. When they all felt that they were calm enough, the four Apples headed into the kitchen to meet with Quentin, bright smiles on their faces. Throughout breakfast, the farm ponies made good on their vow to keep Quentin from guessing something the pain that was aching them in their hearts. They kept the meal hearty and enjoyable as Quentin didn't suspect a thing, much to the family's relief.

Afterwards, Quentin helped Applejack with the cleaning up and he, Applejack, and Big Mac headed outside. "Well guess it's about time we start the day's work,'' Applejack said, stretching her legs.

"Eeyup,'' Big Mac said calmly, doing the same with his legs.

The dark brown stallion nodded in agreement as he too warmed up his body with stretches. "Yep, ready to get the muscles working. Just tell me what to do Applejack.'' Quentin smiled when something surprised him by jumping on his back.

"Howdy there Quentin!'' Apple Bloom greeted, her hind legs on Quentin's back and her front legs over his head.

''Hey there Apple Bloom! What're you up to?'' Quentin grinned.

"I'm jus' about to meet up with Scootaloo an' Sweetie Belle an head our way to school,'' the little filly smiled.

"That bein said, you should start headin out Apple Bloom. Don't want ya being late,'' Applejack said.

Apple Bloom nodded. "Alright Applejack.'' Her face then lit up. "Hey Quentin, how bout ya walk with me to school?''

"Walk you to school?'' Quentin repeated, a bit surprised by the proposal.

Apple Bloom nodded, bouncing excitedly. "Yeah, with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. We can talk about Crusaders stuff!''

Applejack giggled. "That sounds like a good idea. How bout ya go along Quen?''

Quentin thought for a moment before, grinning. "Sounds like a plan.''

Apple Bloom cheered, bouncing humorously on his back, causing a chuckle from Applejack and Big Mac. "Well how bout yall get out of here then,'' Applejack suggested with a smile.

Quentin nodded. "Alright, see you in a little bit then.''

Applejack nodded as she spoke, "Alrighty then Quen.'' Her face then fell slightly as she turned her attention to her younger sister. "And Apple Bloom.''

The little filly looked at Applejack with a confused look before she nodded a faint smile.

"Don't worry Applejack, I know.''

Applejack gave a sad, satisfied nod. Quentin looked back and forth between the sisters, wandering what that was all about. Applejack then stepped forward to embrace the cutie mark ridden stallion. Instantly, a chill shot throughout his body, his face heated up, and his heart began to race as Applejack hugged him, but Quentin was able to smile softly and returned the embraced with his eyes closed. He didn't know why she felt the need for the sudden gesture, but Quentin appreciated it nonetheless. He caught the sweet smell of apples as Quentin hugged his farm pony friend.

They've said their goodbyes and Apple Bloom and Quentin started out Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack waved at them, a slight blush on her face. She looked at big Mac out the corner of her eye and saw he was grinning at her.

"What?'' she asked, cocking an eyebrow.

"I've never seen anypony blush jus from gettin a hug,'' the burly stallion replied.

"Why...I ain't blushin!'' Applejack denied, taking a few steps backward. "It's jus...it's powerfully warm out today!''

Big Mac rolled his eyes playfully. "Funny, it feels mighty fine to me. An that was a nice smile ya gave ta Quentin too.''

Applejack's face frowned with annoyance. "Big Brother, dontcha have work ya should be doin right bout now?''

"Eeyup,'' Big Mac chuckled as he picked a straw and put it in his mouth. He then gazed at his sister with a rather somber smile as he spoke, "I hope my little teasin' would help cheer ya up AJ.''

Applejack looked at her brother with a blank, bewildered look before she gave a forlorn, grateful smile. "Thanks Big Mac. I'll be fine.'' She then went forward and hugged Big Mac with a foreleg.

"It's Apple Bloom I'm worried about,'' Applejack added, gazing sadly out the direction where Quentin and the filly had left.

Quentin and Apple Bloom walked through town side by side as they journeyed to the schoolhouse. Quentin noticed that the usually playful, outgoing filly was being rather quiet today. Throughout half of the journey, Apple Bloom seemed to have a down expression, as if something was deeply troubling her. At one point, the pair past by some little fillies and colts playing happily with their parents, while others were walking their child to school, enjoying pleasant conversation with one another.

Apple Bloom smiled sadly as she watched the kids enjoy the time with their parents that she could never have with hers. Quentin watched from the corner of his eye and saw that tears were slowly, but surely forming in her eyes.

"Apple Bloom, are you ok?'' Quentin asked, looking at the young earth pony with a concerning gaze.

Instantly, Apple Bloom gasped softly, pinched her eyes shut, and whipped her head towards Quentin, her eyes dry with a bright, tight smile on her face.

"Yep, I'm fit as a fiddle. Why would ya ask Quentin?''

"Well I couldn't help but noticed you've been pretty quiet since we left the farm. Not only that, but I thought I saw tears in your eyes just now,'' the stallion answered.

Apple Bloom looked at Quentin with a rather befuddled look. "Tears? O-Oh that! I was just…yawning, that's it! Still wasn't completely awake, but now I am!'' Apple Bloom then gave an obviously fake yawn before laughing awkwardly.

Quentin lightly winced as he gave her a suspicious look, not believing her in the slightest.

"Really? We'll you seemed pretty awake when you were bouncing on my shoulder not too long ago.''

"Yeah, well…all that bouncing' wore me out again. After all, bouncing' is a pretty exhausting' thing!'' Apple Bloom said, smiling nervously.

Quentin could see her falter and stopped and let out a sigh as he turned to her, "Yeah, I'm not buying it Apple Bloom.''

The filly's face fell as she saw that her lie wasn't working on Quentin.

"Come on now Apple Bloom, what's really on your mind? You can tell me.'' Quentin said with a softy, reassuring gaze.

Apple Bloom averted her eyes as her ears lowered. After a moment or two, she looked back up at Quentin with a very sad expression and, "Ya promise ya won't tell nopony?''

Quentin nodded with a small smile as he crossed his heart with a hoof. "I promise as a fellow Cutie Mark Crusader.''

Apple Bloom smirked sadly a bit at this before forming a sorrowful gaze once again.

"Well it's just that…there's this project that I need to do for school,'' she began.

Quentin tilted his head in slight confusion before cracking a small smirk. "Is that it? Trust me Apple Bloom, I've done plenty of school projects back in my day, hated it, but they're not really that bad.''

Apple Bloom shifted uncomfortably a little as she averted her sad eyes from her friend. "I know but it's…we need to do a family tree describin' members of our family.''

"A family tree?'' Quentin repeated as he gave Apple Bloom his full attention. "And that's why you're so down?''

Apple Bloom nodded wearily.

"Sorta, it's just…'' Apple Bloom bit her lip as she tried desperately to keep tears from welling up in her eyes.

"It's just, there's a lot of ponies in my family that I don't know about, that I've never met.''

"Oh,'' Quentin finally muttered understandingly, his face falling and taking on a more sympathetic look. "That's why, yeah I can see how that can be a bit depressing. But you know, why don't you just ask Granny Smith? I'm sure she could tell you about the members you don't know.''

"I know I could do that, but still. I…I've heard nothin' but great things about em'. I wanted ta get ta know them personally. I wish that I could feel them, play with them…tell them that I love them and hearin' them say that they love me too. I…'' as Apple Bloom, she finally started to cry, tears streaming down her face.

Quentin gazed down at the weeping filly with an extremely crestfallen gaze at her sudden break down. The only thing her could think about doing was wrap his forelegs around her and bring her in close to his body for a comforting embrace. Quentin had no idea she felt so strongly about this. He knew from staying with them for this period of time how strong a bond the Apple family had with each other, but now Quentin was starting to see full well the amount of love that was inside the family.

"Shhh, its ok Apple Bloom,'' Quentin spoke softly as he rubbed her back.

Apple Bloom sniffed before lifting her face and looking at Quentin with her wet eyes. "Have…have you ever felt like this Quentin?''

Almost instantly as she asked those words, a pain shot through Quentin's heart. His mouth quivered for a bit, as he averted his eyes with an extremely sorrowful gaze. He brought a hoof up and gently stroked the pendant that was hanging around his neck.

"I have Apple Bloom,'' Quentin finally responded with a hurtful tone. "Believe me, you have no idea how much I've felt like that.''

The filly looked up at the stallion with a slight, surprised gaze at the response. "Y-ya have?''

Quentin nodded silently and closed his eyes as the image of the two that were in the picture of his pendant came into his mind. As much as the imagery hurt his heart, Quentin was able to prevent himself from shedding tears and gazed down wearily at little Apple Bloom.

"And I still feel that pain. No matter how I tried to cope with it, it's just comes back stronger and more painful than ever.''

Apple Bloom sniffed as she rested her head to his chest as she cried. "I-I know it's the same with me. Sometimes, I don't know what ta do about it!''

Quentin stroked her mane as he spoke, ''But fortunately, there's a way to ease the pain. There's a way I've found to counter this terrible aching in the heart longing for our loved ones.''

At this, Apple Bloom, looked at Quentin with tearful, bewildered eyes.

"R-Really? What is it?''

Quentin merely smiled faintly as he answered. "It's love Apple Bloom.''

"Love?'' Apple Bloom repeated, trying to understand what the stallion meant as more tears escaped her eyes.

Quentin nodded. "That's right, love. Sorrow is like a raging sea in a maelstrom of darkness. As we try to settle the pain, the waves become more powerful and unrelenting, the darkness more obscuring and suffocating.''

Apple Bloom kept a tearful gaze at Quentin as he continued with a reassuring, weary smile.

"But it doesn't have to be that way. You don't have to be alone when going through that dark storm. The one's you hold dear, the one's that understand the pain you're going through can help relieve your heart of its suffering. That strong bond creates a light of love that can penetrate and scatter the darkness, and quell the raging sea. With that love, it can guide you out of the night and into the day and you'll realize that the world didn't ended. You'll realize that you still have a family that can strengthen and comfort you. At least…that's what I believe anyway.''

As Quentin finished, Apple Bloom stared at him before lowering her head, thinking deeply at what Quentin said. After a moment, Quentin spoke up once again.

"And have you ever been alone during all that? Did you have a family there to be there for you?''

Apple Bloom look up at him with a lovely smile as tears streamed down her face. "Yeah they have. Granny Smith, Big Mac, Applejack…they've always protected me an' been there fer me when I needed em'. I love em' so much an' I can't imagine my life without them.''

Quentin smiled warmly and spoke. "That's what I thought. I've may have been here for only a few short days, but I've never seen the amount of love that your family has. With them, there's no pain too strong that can destroy the love that they give you.''

Apple Bloom started to whip her eyes and ask, ''And, did your family help you ta deal with the sadness?''

At this, Quentin's ears lowered as he adverted his eyes as an extremely forlorn expression came across his face. He quickly changed it to a comforting smile and answered the little filly.

"Well, the important thing is, I can cope with it a lot better now than I could before.''

Apple Bloom just nodded with a small smile as she whipped more tears away. "I'm glad to hear that. You're too nice a pony ta be so sad like that.''

"And you're too sweet a kid Apple Bloom,'' Quentin said with a grateful smile at the comment. "So please, don't be too depressed for long.''

"I won't Quentin. Though I'll think about them form time ta time and I may get sad, but I'll just remember that I have a great family that I could talk to about it.'' Apple Bloom said. Resting her head against Quentin's chest with her eyes closed with a few tears rolling down her face.

Quentin stroked her mane gently and spoke softly, ''And of course you can always count on me to be here if you need someone to talk to.''

Apple Bloom, looked up at him and smile, tears still visible in her eyes." Thanks Quentin. I'm really glad ya came ta Ponyville and stayin' with us.''

Quentin though deeply but briefly at what the school filly just said before smiling gently at her. "So am I Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom then surprised Quentin as she rose up and gave him a small kiss on the cheek. Though he wasn't expecting the sudden kiss, Quentin smiled nonetheless and sighed contently before the two shared a silent, warm embrace. After a couple of moments, Quentin looked down at the filly, thinking that it was about time to get her to school before she became late.

"Well, I guess we should get you on to school. You ok Apple Bloom?''

Apple Bloom nodded, whipping her tears but with a soft smile on her face as she answered,'' Yeah, well I'm doin' better than I was a few moments ago, but If I jus' remember everythin' ya said, I'll be alright.''

Quentin nodded in agreement as he smiled fondly at her. "Thatta girl. Tough as nails just like your sister.''

As Quentin spoke, he rustled her head causing Apple Bloom to giggly amusingly. The two then decided to continue their trek to the schoolhouse. They headed through town and to the Carousel Boutique where they saw Sweetie Bell and Scootaloo walking from the building. When they saw Quentin and Apple Bloom, their faces lit up and they trotted to them.

"Hey Apple Bloom! Hey Quentin!'' Sweetie Belle greeted as the two leaped into the stallion's arms. "

"What are you up to Quentin?'' Scootaloo asked with a grin.

"Quentin's gonna walk us to school today. Ain' that right Quentin?'' Apple Bloom said, smiling up at him.

Quentin nodded with a smirk. "Yep, nothing like chilling with my fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders.'' He rubbed each of their heads, earning a giggle from all three of the fillies.

The four talked casually as they led Quentin to the school house.

"So Quentin, you're gonna be at the next Cutie Mark Crusaders meeting right?'' Scootaloo asked gazing up at the newest member.

Quentin rolled his eyes upwards as he thought of an answer. "Mmm depends, when is the next meeting?''

"Today after school. So are you coming huh, huh, HUH?'' Sweetie Belle asked eagerly.

Quentin winced slightly. "I don't know girls. I might have some work cut out for me at Sweet Apple Acres.''

The fillies' faced fell sadly, but Apple Bloom's face became that of thinking. "Well Applejack an' Big Mac usually don't finish til six, we could wait til then I guess,'' Apple Bloom suggested.

"Really? Isn't that a bit late to go crusading?'' Quentin asked uncertainly.

Sweetie Belle beamed as she spoke, ''We don't have to go crusading for our cutie marks. We could just discuss suggestions we could do to find our marks!''

"Yeah, and we can crusade the next day!'' Scootaloo added happily. "So how bout it Quentin?''

Quentin thought for a moment before smiling. ''Alright, you got it.''

The three fillies cheered around the earth pony stallion. Quentin could only chuckle at their adorableness. They finally made it to the red building that was the school house. Quentin and the fillies saw various pony kids with saddlebags as they made their way inside the school, being greeted by a cerise colored earth pony with a light pink mane with light, grayish rose lining and a cutie mark resembling three, happy faced sunflowers. The pony was Cheerilee, the fillies' teacher. Quentin said his goodbyes to his fellow crusaders and made his way down the path and back towards Sweet Apple Acres. About halfway through his journey back to the farm, a familiar voice called out to him.

"Hey Q!''

Quentin looked around and finally upward into the sky to see Rainbow Dash swooping down to him. "Hey what's up Dash!'' he greeted with a smile as they greeted each other with a hoof bump and a soft headbutt.

"What's happening? What are you up to?'' his rainbow maned friend said as she hovered in front of him.

"Well I just finished walking Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle to school and now I'm heading back to Sweet Apple Acres to start working with AJ,'' Quentin explained.

Rainbow Dash landed on the ground as a rather perturbed gaze fell upon her face, ''You're working with Applejack on the farm?''

Quentin nodded, "Yep, I don;t know how long I'll be here, so I figured I could at least make some money and be of some use.''

Rainbow Dash frowned a bit before averting her eyes from Quentin with a sort of troubled look about her. She then looked at Quentin and asked with a slightly, disquiet tone.

"And how do you like it? Working on the farm…with her.''

Quentin answered with a rather sheepish smirk, "Well to tell you the truth, I've never even considered the idea about working on a farm. But despite all the strenuous work, and early wake ups, it's actually really growing on me, especially when I have Applejack to take to.''

At the mention of Applejack, Quentin couldn't help but smile warmly to himself at the thought of the orange, farm pony. However, Rainbow Dash seemed even more disturbed by this fact and asked.

"Well, she's not pushing you too much is she? Does she give you a break every now and then?

Quentin was a bit surprised by question, but he shook his head speaking, "No not at all. I mean about pushing me too far. Yeah she gives me plenty of breaks and we have an enjoyable time together. It really doesn't feel like work to be honest.''

Quentin then raised an eyebrow as he scanned at his cyan friend. "Why do you ask?''

"Uh, n-no reason!'' Rainbow Dash answered quickly, waving her hooves in front of her. She then looked at Quentin with a solemn smile. "I was just a bit worried you might strain yourself. A lot of ponies aren't really cut out for that kind of job, but if you're cool with it, then it's cool with me.''

Quentin continued to look at Rainbow Dash suspiciously before cracking a grin. "And besides, if I can survive a match with Ponyville's number one black belt, I think some hard working labor won't keep me down.'' He jabbed Rainbow Dash on the shoulder.

The Pegasus chuckled sheepishly as she looked away for a brief moment. "Well I guess that's true.'' She then gazed back at Quentin with a calmer smile. "Well you mind if we hung out a bit before I head to the weather patrol?''

Quentin nodded with a smile,'' Sure, it's always great to hang out with the best flier in Equestria.''

Rainbow Dash laughed before answering, ''Yeah, yeah true. It's all true.''

The two friends both laughed. Rainbow Dash and Quentin then started to make their way through town, ponies going about their business. "Yesterday I was hanging out with Scootaloo. She couldn't stop talking about you. You must've really hit it off with her huh?'' Rainbow Dash said.

Quentin chuckled,'' Yeah her, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. They're really sweet girls.''

Rainbow Dash nodded with a smile. "She even told me you're a member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Is it true?''

The human rolled his eyes with a smirk, ''What can I say? I was hesitant at first, but eventually they've convinced me to join. I've got a club cape and everything.''

At this Rainbow Dash burst out laughing. "A little old for a kids club aren't ya?!''

Quentin rolled his eyes at the laughing pony, but then noticed something as he tilted his head. He finally came to see that Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo were so similar. He wondered..., ''Hey Rainbow Dash?''

"Yeah Quentin?'' Rainbow Dash responded, whipping away some tears.

"I was just wondering, you and Scootaloo…are you two related by any chance?''

Rainbow Dash just stared at Quentin blankly before laughing out loud again. "You're not the first to ask me that. But no we're not related at all. She kinda, well looks up to me. I'm sorta like a role model to her. I kinda watch out for her ya know? Keep her under my wing like a big sister.''

Quentin grinned, raising an eyebrow, "A big sister huh? Yeah I could totally see you in that position. Can't blame her though, you to do seem to have a lot in common.''

Rainbow Dash snickered, ''Yep you can say that again.''

They both shared a chuckle. After the humorous moment, Quentin asked the Pegasus, "So what's going on with you Rainbow Dash?''

"Well...the real reason I called you was,'' Rainbow Dash began, a bit shyly.

Quentin tilted his head, puzzled about his bold friend's odd demeanor. Rainbow Dash then looked at him and continued.

"I have tickets to see the Wonderbolts airshow this weekend and...I was wandering if you would, ya know, like to go… with me?''

Quentin was surprised by the request as he looked into Rainbow Dash's uneasy face. "The Wonderbolts?'' he repeated, to which she nodded, a worried look in her magenta eyes.

Quentin then smiled, ''Yeah I'd would love to go with you.''

Rainbow Dash's face then started to form a slow smile, "Really, you'll go with me?!''

Quentin nodded. "Totally, it would be interesting to see the Wonderbolts for the first time especially with you.''

Rainbow Dash zoomed happily through the air, leaving rainbow colored vapors behind her as she did so.

"Wow, never realized you'd be so happy about that,'' the dreadlocked chuckled.

Rainbow Dash then flew back in front of Quentin and looked upon him with a tender smile by the Quentin had yet seen. "Well I just want to spend more time with you Quentin ya know. Maybe bond some more.''

Quentin smiled gently, touched by Rainbow Dash's tenderness. Though he'd come to respect her brash, tomboyish behavior, Quentin found her occasional softness quite cute. He even thought he saw a faint blush on Rainbow Dash's face as she looked away shyly. After a brief silence, Rainbow Dash spoke up again.

"Well that was some celebration on Sunday huh?''

Quentin nodded with a half chuckle. "Yeah, though I still think it was unnecessary.''

Rainbow Dash chuckled, ''Well, always have to be the modest guy don't you?''

Quentin shrugged and averted his eyes. Rainbow Dash scratched the back of her head as she spoke with an awkward gaze,'' And I saw a lot of mares talking to you.''

"I know,'' the human turned stallion sighed." I'll admit I get more attention here than I ever did by on my world. It's kinda embarrassing really.''

Rainbow Dash's face became one of uneasiness, maybe even a hint of fearful. "Are you...interested in any of them?''

Quentin's eyes widened at the question as Rainbow Dash waited for an answered.

"Wait a minute, do you mean interested like...having a girlfriend?!'' he said a bit loudly. Some ponies looked their way at the outburst.

Rainbow Dash nodded desperately. Quentin stammered and fumbled his words as he spoke.

''What...I...no I'm not interested in any of them!'' Quentin said loudly but quickly covered his mouth, waving awkwardly at staring ponies and they went on their way.

"So, you don't have interest in any of them?'' Rainbow Dash asked hopefully.

Quentin shook his head and waved his hoofs in front of him. "No...I mean…'' Quentin took a deep breath before continuing. "Don't get me wrong, they're nice and pretty girls, but it just wouldn't work out.''

''Wouldn't work out? How come?'' Rainbow Dash asked, cocking an eyebrow.

Quentin sighed, ''Because I'm not from here, I'll be going back to my world eventually, so there'd be no point in starting a relationship.''

Rainbow Dash nodded slowly as she bore a disappointed frown. "Oh right, I keep forgetting about that,'' she muttered.

Quentin nodded, ''Besides, I'm a human. I wouldn't want to get in trouble for anything taboo or something.''

What happened next completely caught Quentin by surprise. The bold Pegasus looked at Quentin with a stunned expression before she glared at him. "What the hay is THAT supposed to mean?!''

Rainbow Dash then began to approach Quentin. Almost instantly he began to feel a sweat coming on as he stared into her angry eyes. "Well?'' Rainbow Dash asked aggressively, getting into the stallion's face.

Quentin stammered, "I just…well…I'm a human and… a human and a pony together…it's just isn't right!''

Rainbow Dash had practically pushed Quentin on his back on the ground. She glared at him as she got in his face and growled at his questionable response. "So you're talking about interspecies relationships? So is that what humans think about ponies, just animals? Just base animals with no concept about love or any emotions whatsoever?!''

By now Quentin stared at her completely intimidated by her anger. His heart raced as he looked nervously into her furious eyes. However he understood her sudden hostility and he was quickly overcome with the heart clutching feeling of guilt as his ears and face fell shamefully at the thought of possible insulting his friend.

"No…I…that's not what I meant,'' Quentin muttered.

"Is that so? Mind telling me what you did meant?'' Rainbow Dash said, lifting her head while not taking her eyes off of Quentin, a strong frown still present on her face.

Quentin sat up and looked at Rainbow Dash with an apologetic gaze. "I didn't mean to call you animals and I don't think you're animals. You're sentient, intelligent beings on the same level as humans. What I meant was that deep down I'll always be a human and humans and ponies are different. Wouldn't a relationship between a human and pony be frowned upon in Equestria? Wouldn't everyone else rise to revolt against it?''

Rainbow Dash calmed down and nodded, ''Hey if everypony else doesn't like it, they can go buck themselves. I'm not gonna let others tell me who I can or can't love. I'm not gonna let others tell me how to live my love life, if I had one that is.'' Rainbow Dash acted a bit nervously at the end of her statement, a brief blush appearing on her face as she averted her eyes from Quentin for a brief moment.

Quentin just looked down in shame. Rainbow Dash gazed down at him, and formed a soft smirk, nudging his arm.

"And besides, you're in the body of a pony, so who's gonna know if you're a human huh? And personally if I did found out if you were a human, I wouldn't care.''

The human looked up at Rainbow Dash quizzically. "What's...that supposed to mean?''

Rainbow Dash stammered awkwardly, ''Oh...I...I just mean I wouldn't mind that's all, especially after getting to know how awesome you are.''

Quentin stared at Rainbow Dash amazed at what she told him and the amount of tolerance and understanding she was displaying, but he still felt guilty and looked away from her. After a moment, Rainbow Dash spoke.

''Hey Quentin?''

He looked at her.

"When you said that humans and ponies together would be taboo. Honesty, I thought you were implying bestiality in so thought you see us as nothing short of animals. That kinda hurt to be honest. What exactly do you see when you look at us ponies?''

Quentin thought carefully to choose the best words, and he answered, ''When I see you, Applejack, and the others, I don; t see base. I see pretty girls with unique personalities who've done nothing but support me ever since I came to Equestria and now all I want to do is support you guys however I can.''

Rainbow Dash was a bit surprised by the stallion's answer and she chuckled, ''Yeah well that's great and all and sweet of you to say Q, but you're just saying that.''

Quentin shook his head, ''I'm dead serious. You're my friend and I never want to hurt you or make you feel different in anyway. Can you forgive me for making you feel otherwise, even for a second?''

He looked at Rainbow Dash who smirked and raised a foreleg, her hoof extended. Quentin knew what she wanted and he raised his own foreleg and hoof and bumped it against hers.

"It's cool Q. I know you'd never say something to offend me intentionally,'' Rainbow Dash spoke with a cool smile.

The earth pony just nodded.

"Besides if you did, I'd beat the living daylights out of you,'' Rainbow Dash joked with a sly smirk.

Quentin couldn't help but chuckle out loud. "Yeah, no doubt. You've done it before and you can sure as hell do it again.''

The two friends both laughed. When they were done, Quentin gazed at his friend. "Rainbow, if I was interested in a girlfriend, you'd really date me, even if I was a human?''

Rainbow Dash just whipped her bang out her eyes and smirked, "Meh,.''

Quentin slightly raised an eyebrow at her comment, which really didn't answer his question at all, especially with the slight, lazy tone she said it in. Rainbow Dash averted her eyes to the sky and spoke.

"Well I should hit the skies Q. So we on for Saturday?'' Rainbow Dash asked.

Quentin nodded with a smile. "You bet Dash.''

Rainbow Dash smiled. "Alright, I'm out. And tell Applejack I said hi.''

Before parting way, the two did their special hoof bump and headbutt and with that she flew off into the skies. Quentin smiled after her and after a few moments, he made his way down the path. Quentin failed to see Rainbow Dash stopping in midair, glancing back at him, and giving him a fond smile as a rosy blush appeared on her face before taking off into the skies again. As Quentin walked through town, many ponies waved in his direction to which he warmly returned the gesture. Quentin's name has come to be known at least by a majority of the town as some would call out the stallion's name to greet him. Quentin was embarrassed by the greetings, even though he performed in plays and sang on stage a couple times on Earth, the shyness in him could never get used to so much attention.

As Quentin ventured back to Sweet Apple Acres, he decided to take a different route. He headed away towards the hustle and bustle of the ponies about the marketplace and soon found himself walking along a clearing, quiet and serene something he appreciated. As he walked through the clearing, something came into view and in moments he stopped as he came to the front of open, iron gates. Accompanying the gates was an iron fence that quartered a very large piece of land. Quentin would've questioned himself as to what he had just found however, all he had to do was take a look at what the gates lead to immediately deduce where he was standing in front of. Through the open gates, Quentin could see countless headstones and statues that embedded the earth within the confines of the gate. He had stumble upon a cemetery.

Immediately, Quentin felt a dreaded woefulness upon looking at the burial site. The various headstones the marked the graves of those who had passed on brought a sense of gloom to the area despite the sun shining brightly in the sky. Though colorful flowers, mostly likely from loved ones who had visited the graveyard, were placed on the graves, even they couldn't take away the dismalness that the cemetery gave off.

"I…I've been so immersed with the wonders of this world that I've forgotten that death is also present here,'' Quentin thought to himself sadly.

As he observed more of the cemetery, Quentin brought a hoof to his pendent. He winced strongly as he gritted his teeth. The cemetery, the headstones, the reminder of death, it pained his heart as he thought about the two that were in the picture inside his pendent. Not wanting to see any more of the resting place of the dead, Quentin turned to start back towards the farm when he abruptly came to a stop. His ear twitched as he heard the faint clopping coming from the cemetery. Quentin turned his head towards the open gates and saw a white unicorn with a purple, beautifully styled mane walking slowly towards the entrance. However, the equine had her head lowered in a rather melancholy fashion. Though he couldn't see the pony's face, Quentin immediately recognized the unicorn the made her way so joylessly.

"Rarity?'' Quentin spoke with confusion.

The stallion then made his way past the gates and into the cemetery to meet his elegant friend as he called her name. "Rarity!''

Upon hearing her name, Rarity sharply whipped her head upwards at Quentin. As she lifted her head, Rarity revealed that her azure eyes were filled with tears and streamed down her face along with the slight showing of her mascara, wet and staining the corners of her eyes.

"What?! Oh my Quentin!'' Rarity spoke in shock as she desperately moved to try to whip her eyes dry of tears and mascara.

Quentin made it to Rarity and stopped in front of her.

"Hey Rarity, what are you-'' Upon seeing his friend's tear and mascara stained face, a look of worry came over him as he approached her. "Rarity? Are you ok?''

The beautiful unicorn whipped her eyes as she gazed the stallion earth pony despondently. "I…well… what in Chiron's name are you doing here darling? I would never expected to see you here of all places.''

Quentin answered, ''I was just walking to Sweet Apple Acres and thought I'd try a different route when I found this place. But it's you that I'm worried about.''

Quentin observed the unicorn's eyes and could still see the faint appearance of tears and running mascara. "Have you been crying?''

Rarity darted her eyes about as if trying to come up with a story about her being here, but upon seeing her friend's concerned frown, she gave off a sight and responded.

"Well, I guess there's no point and trying to hide it. After all I was coming out of a cemetery for goodness grief,'' she muttered.

Quentin waited for a few moments before Rarity gave off another, disheartened sigh as she looked upon Quentin. "Yes, I was indeed crying. I was just finishing giving my respects.''

Quentin frowned in both sympathy and sadness. "Oh…I'm sorry, I didn't mean to intrude on your private time.''

"Oh no, you weren't intruding Quentin,'' Rarity answered with a weary smile. "Like I said, I was just finishing my visit.''

"If you don't mind my asking…just who you were here to pay respects to?'' the stallion asked cautiously, worried that such a sensitive question was too much to ask her.

"Oh…well I was just visiting…well…'' Rarity began but before she could finished, her buried her face with a hoof as she cried softly, taking deep silent breaths as she wept.

Immediately Quentin ran over to her side to comfort her.

"Rarity I'm so sorry. I didn't meant to say anything to upset you!'' Quentin apologized desperately, supporting her by holding her by her foreleg.

After a brief moment, Rarity looked up at Quentin, tears streaming down her face. "Oh no, you didn't upset me Quentin,'' Rarity began as she whipped her eyes and sniffed. "But sweet Luna do you mind if we finish this conversation outside this dreadful place?''

"Of course Rarity,'' Quentin nodded with a saddened frown.

Quentin then escorted Rarity towards the gates of the cemetery before passing the iron entranceway. Once outside the cemetery, Quentin supported the doleful Rarity as she tried to compose herself. After about five minutes, Rarity took a deep breath and looked at her comforting friend with a dreary gaze.

"I'm sorry darling, I must look a mess?'' Rarity muttered, trying to fix her mane and whip the tears and mascara off her face.

Quentin shook his head slowly, forming a faint, sad smile as he gaze upon the unicorn. Contrary to her belief, even when she was in a mourning, sorrowful state, she still had an untouchable beauty to her that not even her woebegone demeanor could disrupt.

"No look just fine Rarity. I don't think anything in this world can hinder your natural beauty, even in the state that you're in.''

Rarity responded with a tearful and grateful smile as she spoke, ''you really do say the sweetest things Quentin. Thank you.''

"I'm sorry for making you break down Rarity. I don't have the right to pry in your private life.'' Quentin said in a truly shameful tone, feeling guilty for such a bold question.

"Don't be silly Quentin. Like I said before, it's not your fault. It's just a usual reaction when you're visiting the resting place of somepony important,'' Rarity said with a sniff.

Quentin just watched his friend as she continued to try and get the mascara stains off her face as she continued with a tone of woefulness in her usual refined voice. "I was visiting the graves of two special ponies. I had to, especially on this day.''

Quentin tilted his head in slight confusion at Rarity's last remark. She had to visit the graves today? What could possible be so special about today? "Why this day in particular?'' the earth pony asked, intrigued but still mindful of his friend's feelings.

"I had to visit them today because…it was on this they that they tragically died,'' Rarity answered, but then looked at Quentin with a sad, bewildered expression. "You honestly didn't know?''

"Why would I know?'' Quentin asked with a truly puzzled frown. "I've only been in Equestria for six days, I don't know anybody that died.''

Rarity gazed as Quentin with a slightly surprised look and spoke, ''Well yes that's true but, do you mean to tell me that she hasn't told you about it?''

Quentin was really getting confused now. Who hasn't told him about what? Was he supposed to know?

"Rarity what are you talking about? Who hasn't told me about it?''

Rarity casted her gaze away from him for a brief moment, biting her lip before looking back at Quentin with a somber smile before she answered. "Nothing. It's quite nothing sweetie. Please just banish that thought from your mind.''

Quentin observed Rarity closely, trying to figure out what she had meant about 'she not telling him'. As he was about to open his mouth to question her, Rarity beat him to it and spoke first and quickly, as if she just realized something.

"Oh dear me I really should be heading back to the Carousel Boutique. I may have needed to make this visit, but I have almost an insurmountable amount of work that needs to be done.'' Rarity gazed at Quentin with a sheepish look that still had the hint of depression. "And here I am crying like a fool.''

"You're not a fool Rarity. Like you said, it's a common emotion to display when visiting the grave of someone special. Do you need me to walk with you home?'' Quentin asked, still concerned for the state of the fashionista unicorn.

Rarity gave Quentin a grateful smile, ''that's very sweet of you Quentin, it really is, but that won't be necessary. I'll be fine, really.''

Quentin still wasn't convinced as he continued to challenge Rarity.

"It'd be no trouble at all Rarity, really. I'm just worried about you that's all. Maybe you want a little company?''

Rarity shook her head slowly with a forlorn smile. "I'll be fine Quentin really. Besides, didn't you say you were on your way back to Sweet Apple Acres? I'm sure Applejack would need you much more than I would.''

As Rarity spoke, she bore a much more sorrowful towards her last words as tears began to reappear at the corner of her eyes. Seeing this, Quentin looked at Rarity with a concerned frown, but then thought about what she just said. It was true, he was on his way back to the farm. As an employee to the Apple Family, he had a job to get back to and he really didn't want to keep Applejack waiting.

The human turned stallion looked upon Rarity with a compunctious gaze. "Are you sure Rarity? I just don't feel right leaving you after seeing you cry like that.''

"I'll be fine Quentin. This isn't the first day I've had this experience trust me. I've recovered before and I'll sure recover from this agonizing reminder. So please, there no need to worry about me,'' Rarity responded, touching his face gently with the foreleg that held the silver chain with a ruby he had given to her as she bore that faint smile that bore the pain and suffering from being reminded of those important to her that had passed on.

Quentin gently stroked her hoof before going forward and embracing Rarity.

"Ok Rarity. Just take care of yourself ok?'' Quentin whispered softly in her ear.

Initially surprised but the hug, Rarity closed her eyes and smiled contently as she returned the gesture. "Thank you Quentin. And don't worry, I will.''

The two friends hugged each other for a few moments before they broke apart. They bid each other farewell before finally parting ways as they went about to their destination. Before Quentin walked too far, he stopped briefly, peered over his shoulder, and glanced at Rarity as she walked away. He gave her a sad, troubled look before turning around and started back towards Sweet Apple Acres.

Away down the opposite side of the road, Rarity too stopped her trek before looking over her shoulder at Quentin as he walked away. A deep look of desolation and guilt appeared as a tear escaped her eye and streamed down her face.

"Applejack didn't tell him after all. I suppose it's for the best…'' Rarity spoke sadly to herself as another tear rolled down her cheek.

With a deep sigh and a heavy heart, Rarity turned around and continued her journey towards her home. Quentin continued his walk back towards the farm, however his thoughts were still on Rarity. The beautiful, glamorous equine so refined and poised found crying while walking out of a cemetery of all places. Those thoughts also paved way to remind him of earlier that day. First he came downstairs of the Apple's home to find them crying over an open photo album. Then Apple Bloom started to break down while Quentin took her to school. These incidents made he stallion pondered deeply with a troubled, gloomy frown.

"First Apple Bloom, and now Rarity. And there was a dismal atmosphere when I greeted Applejack and her family this morning. This day's been…depressing to say the least.''

As Quentin walked, he couldn't help but take a hoof and stroked his pendant, feeling even more downhearted. "God why did I have to take that route? Why did I have to find that cemetery?''

For the remainder of his trek, Quentin pondered those questions repeated in his head. It wasn't until he found himself walking along a white, wooden fence as a familiar red barn house came into view when he finally snapped out of his thoughts.

"C'mon Quentin, don't look so down,'' Quentin told himself, with a sort of firm expression. "Whatever hurt you may be feeling, it'll go away when you see Applejack. I…I can never be sad or unhappy when I'm around her.'' As slow, small smile came upon his face as he thought about the southern farm pony that was Applejack.

Quentin made his way along the dirt road and finally walked past the welcoming, flora covered archway and onto the farmland. Immediately Quentin headed towards the sheds to prepare for the work day. He smiled softly as he saw chickens going about pecking at the ground for corn kernels that he knew Applejack had spread out for them. He passed a mud hole to find some pigs squealing contently as they rolled around in the mushy earth. From where he could see, Quentin observed as Winona kept a watchful eye on a herd of sheep as they grazed in an open field. Distances away, a crow sounded throughout the charming orchard.

Quentin took the time to appreciate the simplicity and natural beauty that was Sweet Apple Acres. It was so simple yet, charming and refreshing, as the ones that worked so hard every day to keep their home that way. The farm was so simple yet it possessed something special at the heart of its apple core.

Finally decided he took in as much as the surrounding that he needed, Quentin stretched his legs to get ready for his work and went into one of the stables where his eyes fell upon Applejack, her back facing him.

"Oh hey Applejack,'' Quentin greeted with a warm smile.

The earth pony mare jumped a bit before whipping around in surprise. In her teeth was a colorful bouquet of flowers bundled together in a white wrapping.

"Quentin!'' Applejack spoke in shock as she gritted her teeth and holding on to the flowers. She spat out the flowers and held them in a hoof. "Wha-oh ya scared the leavin' daylights outta me!''

Quentin's face fell apologetically as he responded, ''Oh sorry about that Applejack. I wasn't expecting anyone to be in here.''

Applejack just smiled at him kindly as she shook her head.

"It's all fine an' dandy. So I take it Apple Bloom made it ta school on time?''

Quentin nodded. "Yeah. She's just too cute and playful to put into words. I'm really starting to love spending time with her.''

Applejack smiled warmly at the stallion as she spoke.

"Well I'm really glad ta hear ya say that Quen. Ta tell ya the truth, when we're alone, Apple Bloom talks about ya a lot.''

Quentin was slightly surprise at the news. Sure that he was fond of the little filly and were pals, even becoming part of her, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle's club but he'd never expected to be that popular with her. Quentin averted his eyes as a sheepish smile came across his face.

"She does huh? Funny, cause I'm not that important to talk or think about.''

Applejack gave her friend a slightly puzzled look before smiling fondly at him. "Of course ya are Quentin. Yer kind, respectable, modest, an' a hard worker ta boot. We're really glad ya came here, even if it was a flute accident.''

Quentin could feel his face heat up as a blush came across his face. Though he's gotten plenty of compliments since being the equine land, he felt a greater warmth and appreciation from comments like that coming from Applejack. All Quentin could do was smile bashfully and averted his eyes, as Applejack did the same. After a moment, Quentin looked back at the farm pony and noticed the bouquet of flowers.

"Say Applejack, those are some nice looking flowers,'' he spoke.

''Huh? Say what?'' Applejack responded, snapping out of her bashfulness. She looked down at the flowers and immediately a saddened expression came to her face. "Oh…right. Yeah there are,'' she muttered.

Seeing her down expression, Quentin looked at his friend with a concerned frown and said, ''Um Applejack?''

Instantly Applejack's face brightened up, ''Yep these are the best lookin' flowers I could find around these parts. Granny Smith asked me ta pick em' so she could put them in the house. Ya know ta brighten things up.''

As Applejack continued to smile at Quentin, the stallion still looked at her with a worried look. Although she was smiling, he couldn't help feel that it wasn't genuine, like she was forcing it. Quentin was about to speak to her concerning the matter, but Applejack beat him to it.

"Well we have a heapin' lot of chores ta do. How bout we stop our yappin' and get them done?''

Quentin thought about what Applejack just said. It was true, working on the farm demands a long list of things that needed to be done. All the numerous chores weren't going to get completely by themselves after all. With all that though out, Quentin smiled softly and nodded.

"Yeah your right. Even with three ponies, it's still a heck of a lot of work to do.''

Applejack nodded, "Exactly. Why don't ya head on out and I'll catch up in a sec.''

Quentin nodded in understanding and turned around and walked out of the stable. After he was out of sight, Applejack's face fell again in deep sadness. "C'mon Applejack, ya need ta get it together. Ya can't let Quentin find out about this day.''

As she spoke, Applejack gazed wearily at the flowers bundled together. She think went over to a table and filled a tankard half way with water. She then placed the bouquet into the tinkered so that the flowers wouldn't get depraved of the sustaining water. With one last, sad, dreary gaze, Applejack turned around, took a deep breath and started toward the stable entrance.

For the next several hours, Quentin, Applejack, and Big Mac worked hard around the farm. Quentin did numerous, back breaking chores including apple bucking, plowing, wood chopping, lifted heavy bags and moved them to their supposed places like the farm's storm cellar or the sheds. Though strenuous work, Quentin always found comfort and relief with working with Applejack and Big Mac. However today seemed different.

As he worked with the siblings, he couldn't help but feel a gloomy and dismal air about their work. As subtle as he could, Quentin observed the brother and sister whenever he would help them with something. Conversations would be short and Quentin saw that as they labored, they both had troubled, forlorn faces. Whenever the human would ask if something was wrong, they would brighten up instantly and deny that nothing was troubling them. And not wanting to pry them too much, Quentin would just nod and accept their answers, though he still felt that feeling of dejection emanating from them. A desolating, despondent, unhappiness that was all too familiar to him, which in turn would cause his spirits to dampen.

At about noon, Quentin decided to take a break. He breathed deeply, his coat drenched in sweat from the heavy labor he did and began to head towards the main farmhouse. As he was about to walk through the corn fields, something caught Quentin's and he turned his head to the right and saw Big Mac sitting alone on a nearby hill.

"Huh? Big Mac?'' Quentin asked softly to himself, a little confused to see the burly stallion sitting alone.

Curious to see what the elder Apple sibling was doing, Quentin changed course and started heading towards Big Mac. Big Mac sat silently on the hill under the cool shade of the apple trees. His head was tilted slightly to the left with his eyes closed as he bore an extremely lugubrious expression. Though shut, his eyes quivered as did his mouth as a single tear escaped from both of his eyes.

When Quentin had gotten close enough to the dour earth pony, he spoke,'' Hey Big Mac?''

Immediately Big Mac shot opened his eyes and whipped his head to his right to see Quentin approaching him. He then gave his head one strong shake as the tears were whipped away before turning back to Quentin with a bright, friendly smile.

"Well howdy there Quentin,'' the taciturn stallion greeted as Quentin approached him. "What can I do ya fer?''

"Hey Big Mac. I was just wandering why you are sitting here all alone?'' Quentin asked with a slight look of concern in perplexity.

"I was jus' takin a little breather from work fer a minute. An' this jus' happens ta be my favorite place ta relax,'' Big Mac answered.

Quentin just looked at Big Mac for a moment before nodding with a small smile as a gently but refreshing breeze blew along their coats and rustled the leaves.

"Well I can believe it. With the shady trees along with a nice breeze, this seems like the best spot to unwind.

Big Mac nodded with a calm smile as he answered, "Eeyup.''

Quentin chuckled. He was really coming to enjoy the red stallion's simple responses. He appreciated his laconic and soft spoken attitude, probably since he himself was usually the silent type.

"You mind if I joined you?'' Quentin asked.

"Nope,'' Big Mac answered, shaking his head with that relaxed smile of his.

Quentin smirked as he walked over and sat on his haunches besides Big Mac. At first the two sat in silence, but enjoyed the quietness of the farm and the refreshing coolness of the shade of trees that they were sitting under. Another gentle breeze blew through the air, brushing along their coats and again rustling the trees.

"Aw dang that feels good,'' Quentin sighed, lifting his head with his eyes closed as he took in the breeze.

Big Mac nodded in agreement, doing the same thing Quentin had done, "Eeyup.''

After taking in the breeze, Quentin opened his eyes and through their corners gazed at Big Mac. He noticed that this was the first and longest time he had spent with the strong, farm stallion. Though they kept ach others company in early mornings before going to work and while those times were enjoyable, they were also relatively short. A though then came to Quentin and he turned his head to look at Big Mac.

"Big Mac?''

"What's yer mind Quentin?'' Big Mac asked, looking at him.

"Well I just noticed that I've always said thus to Applejack, but not you. So I just want to take this opportunity to thank you for letting me stay here,'' Quentin answered with a small but grateful smile.

Big Mac looked blankly at Quentin with a small look of confusion, but he just smiled in that relaxing way he always do and spoke, ''Think nothin' of it pardner. Any friend of AJ's are always welcome ta stay here on the farm.''

"Yeah but it was on such short notice, but you and your family still had the kindness to open up your homes to me when I was a complete stranger,'' Quentin said with something sort of a small, sad frown upon his face.

Big Mac just chuckled heartily, ''Like I said, it was no big deal at all. In fact I'm plum grateful that ya came here an' just in time to.''

Quentin looked at the burly stallion with a bewildered expression as Big Mac continued.

"With Granny Smith too old and Apple Bloom too young ta work, it's usually jus' me an' Applejack workin' the fields. Though we're happy ta take on the tasks, it could get pretty overwhelming for jus' two ponies, especially during the busy seasons.''

Upon understanding what Big Mac had meant, Quentin smiled softly before speaking, "I'm more than happy to be of any help. It's the least I can do for you and your families' hospitality. I've never been to a place as welcoming and kind like Ponyville.''

Big Mac chuckled, ''Well that's Ponyville fer ya. We have three different races of ponies livin' here in peace, ya probably won't ever find a place kinder than ol' Ponyville.''

Quentin couldn't agree more and smirked at the red stallion, "So I guess you've been here pretty much all your life?''

"Eeyup,'' Big Mac answered. "In fact, Ponyville was founded by the Apple Family.''

"Say what now?!'' Quentin asked in surprised, doing a sort of double take. "You mean to tell me your family started this place?!''

Big Mac merely nodded with a chuckle. "That's right. Ya see Granny Smith an' her family were pilgrim pony folk who traveled and collected seeds. Their journey eventually lead then ta Canterlot an' Princess Celestia, seein' how they were plum tired from their journey, directed then to an uncharted acre of land next to the Everfree Forest. At that time, the Family had a recipe for special apple jam to which ponies from far an' wide would come ta get an' before they knew it ponies began ta' relocate to the new settlement which grew to become the fine town known as Ponyville.''

Quentin just stared at Big Mac, both shocked and impressed. He knew that the Apple Family were hardworking and honest, but he had never once figured that they would have a direct hand into the foundation of the harmonious, mixed community of races that was Ponyville.

"That's awesome,'' was the only thing Quentin could uttered.

Big Mac grinned proudly at his family's history and said, ''Eeyup. But now I must ask, how was livin' up yonder in Fillydelphia?''

"What?'' Quentin asked dumbly, forgetting the story he and Applejack had set up upon coming to Equestria. However, the dreadlocked stallion suddenly remembered and tried desperately and quickly to recovered. "Oh right, right. Fillydelphia!''

Big Mac was caught off guard by Quentin's sudden outburst and gave him a weird look. "Yeah, I've never been ta Fillydelphia before. What's it like there?''

It didn't take Quentin long for Quentin to come up with a cover story. Though he really didn't want to lie to one of the ponies that showed him great kindness by staying with his family, he knew it was for the best not to reveal any information about him being a human and coming from another world.

"Oh well its ok, I guess,'' Quentin answered with a shrug. He had absolutely no idea what the city was like, but he knew he could pull off a convincing lie.

"Ya guess?'' Big Mac repeated with a confused look.

"Yeah it's just that…I was pretty much a loner in Fillydelphia. Didn't really have much friends.''

"No friends? But why?'' Big Mac asked as if the very thought of Quentin having few to no friends where he came from.

True to his word, Quentin continued on with his story as he went on with a short snort. "I don't know, I guess it's because of this.'' The human turned stallion pointed at his flanks for Big Mac to see.

Big Mac indeed looked and saw his bare flanks. The soft spoken stallion stared for a few minutes with a sort of wide eyed expression before looking back at Quentin. "Ya mean cus' ya don't have yur cutie mark?''

Quentin nodded.

Big Mac's face then fell with a sympathetic gaze. "I've noticed since ya first came here. I didn't want ta ask on the count of worrying that it might've been a personal subject.''

Quentin shook his head,'' No it's all good Big Mac. I know it's crazy and weird, but I've just never been able to get my cutie mark for some reason.''

"Ya mean ya couldn't find anything that might be yur calling? Ya couldn't find a special talent?'' Big Mac asked, trying to comprehend what his coworker was telling him.

Quentin shook his head solemnly, ''No I haven't. It's bizarre. No matter what I've tried or what I did, I seemed to have suck at everything. It was really frustrating. And because I couldn't get my cutie mark, other ponies that did have them work jeer and ostracize me. They thought that I was some sort of freak or weirdo, they pretty much made my life a living hell living there.''

Big Mac just looked at Quentin in disbelief, his usual calm, and relaxed expression now bearing an aghast look.

"But, what about yur family? Surely they were there ta help ya out?'' Big Mac asked, still with a with a look of shock.

That word…family. The moment Big Mac said it, a pain immediately shot through his heart. He frowned deeply as he gritted his teeth, stroking his pendent gently as he did so. After a brief, painful silence, Quentin finally spoke with the upmost of dreariness.

"Yeah about that…I've never really had something I would call a 'family'.''

"No family? What?!'' Big Mac repeated in raised voice that was the loudest Quentin had ever heard from him so far.

"Quentin nodded, that saddened gaze never leaving his face. "Yeah and before you ask, I'd really not want to delve too far into it. Just know that for a great part of my upbringing I was pretty much alone. Sure I was lucky enough to have a roof over my head and someone to look after me for a while, I've never really called it home, nor did I think of my guardian as family, especially when he kicked me out on the streets the second I was old enough.''

Though Quentin was telling a story to cover up his true nature of being, there was some truth behind the words he spoke. The more he thought about his dismal childhood, the more it hurt his heart, and he tried with all his strength to not shed a tear. The story Quentin was telling Big Mac was more than working for he stared at Quentin with an extremely shocked, and sympathetic look, his mouth slightly agape. However, he soon closed his mouth and gritted his teeth as he looked away with a melancholy expression.

"So…ya had nopony. Not even…parents?'' Big Mac asked softly, but with a hurt tone.

Quentin bit his tongue and pinched his teeth to keep from crying and by some miracle it work. He took a deep breath to keep himself composed before speaking, ''Like I said, I don't want to dwell too much into it.''

Silence was again among the two stallions. Quentin looked at Big Mac from the corners of his eyes and was surprised by what he saw. The burly earth pony's eyes were shut as tight as they could be with his teeth gritted and quivering. However, at the corners of his eyes Quentin could clearly see tears. Unbeknownst to Quentin, in Big Mac's mind were the images of a green male earth pony and a light red, female earth pony and little did Quentin know, those images were paining Big Mac to the core.

Seeing his farm pony friend in such a distressed state, Quentin whipped his eyes of any wetness they had and smiled sadly.

"Sorry about that. It's a pretty depressing subject. Big Mac?''

Quentin gently tapped Big Mac on the shoulder to which he immediately whipped his head towards him with wide, surprised eyes.

"Huh?! Oh, beg yur pardon Quentin. I-I don't know what came over me,'' Big Mac answered, whipping his eyes.

Quentin just shook his head with a faint smile, "It's all good. For a big, strong pony, you can be pretty sensitive sometimes huh?''

Big Mac finished whipping his eyes and looked down with a shameful, saddened gaze. "Eeyup.''

Quentin patted his back and gave Big Mac a kind smile,'' It's ok, really Big Mac. Though it was hard, I've learned to cope with it. Though a lot of ponies had given me trouble, there were also a lot who were kind to me. Most of that kindness came in the form of Ponyville.''

Big Mac looked at the dreadlocked stallion and gave him a weary smile.

"An' that's how ya were able ta cope?''

Quentin nodded. "Totally. Especially by meeting six, incredible ponies. By meeting them, I didn't feel like a freak like all the others kept accusing me of. By meeting them, I didn't feel so much like an outcast that had no talent whatsoever.''

Big Mac responded by giving Quentin a rather strong pat on the back as he spoke kindly, ''Now y'all ain't a talentless outcast Quentin an' ya definitely ain't a freak. Fer the time ya been here, I've seen ya work hard as if ya been farmin' ya whole life. I bet if y'all was ta get yur cutie mark, it'd be somethin' ta do with farmin'.''

Quentin chuckled at this proposal. Thought having a cutie mark in farming would be the last thing he would ever get as a symbol of calling, he nonetheless felt he wouldn't feel disappointed or dejected if his cutie mark was indeed of that meaning. If he could get a cutie mark that is.

"Thanks for the words of confidence Big Mac. But to tell you the truth, I wouldn't mind if my calling had something to do with farming. I love working here with you and Applejack.'' Quentin spoke with a content smile.

"Likewise. An' don't worry, ya don't have ta have a cutie mark ta feel useful or wanted,'' Big Mac spoke.

Quentin looked at his stallion friend quizzically, trying to make out his meaning as Big Mac continued. "A cutie mark may represent what ya meant ta do in life, but it doesn't mean it shows the character of a pony. Those insultin' ponies that ya ran into failed ta get ta know the real you: ya shown that yur dependable, brave, respectable, hardworkin' an' more importantly…yur a heck o' a great friend. Applejack really seems ta think highly of ya. I've never seen her look so happy when talkin' about a pony before.''

Quentin just looked at Big Mac, speechless at what he just said. He had never though that the eldest Apple sibling could be a source for such wisdom despite being so calm and easy going. However, he was also surprised when he learned how fondly Applejack would speak of him. Sure she was a great friend to him, but he'd never guess she would be so happy every time she talks about him.

"Big Mac…'' Quentin spoke softly.

Big Mac then spoke with his eyes narrowed. "An' if anypony says otherwise, then they would have ta deal with us. Any friend of ours is considered part of the family. If anypony ever tries ta question yur worth, we'll have ya back indefinitely.''

Quentin looked at Big Mac and gave him a thankful, smile. "Wow Big Mac…I…thanks…''

Big Mac nodded with a smile, ''No prob partner. If anything ever happens, ya can always tell us.''

Big Mac then raised a hoof towards Quentin to which he smirked for he knew immediately what the strong farm stallion wanted, and Quentin raised his own hoof and bumped it against his. Quentin chuckled at the gesture, but deep down felt a warmth in his heart knowing that Big Mac would have my back whenever I would need support. For the rest of their time together, Quentin and Big Mac sat in mostly silence, but they didn't need to talk to express their enjoyment and appreciation for one another as they relaxed in the shade of the trees with the breeze of the afternoon blowing against their coats.

After about fifteen minutes, Big Mac's ear twitched and turned to his right to see Applejack walking towards them. Quentin too saw the mare and a smile instantly came to his face upon seeing his friend.

"Hey Applejack,'' Quentin greeted.

"Howdy Quentin,'' Applejack greeted back with a faint smile. "What yall boys doin' here?''

Quentin and Big Mac just looked at each other blankly and back at Applejack with calm smiles. "Oh nothing, just enjoying the breeze and having a little heart to heart talk. Right Big Mac?'' Quentin asked, patting the red stallion on the back.

"Eeyup,'' Big Mac responded with a smile.

Applejack chuckled lightly, but then her face fell. "Well sorry fer havin' ta interrupt yur time together, but I think it's time Big Mac.''

Applejack looked at her older brother and he sighed deeply, a sad frown upon his face. Quentin looked at the two siblings with a questionable expression.

"What? You think it's time for what?'' Quentin asked Applejack.

At this, Applejack gave him a brighter smile as she responded, ''Oh we jus' have a few errands that needs ta be taken care of, that's all.''

Quentin looked at her intently before answering, "Oh well do you need any help? I'll be more than happy to lend a, uh hoof.''

Applejack gave Quentin a small, but grateful smile and spoke, "Aw that's mighty sweet of ya ta offer Quentin, but really we got this. Y'all done a good heapin' of work today. How bout' you jus' rest an' relax fer a bit?''

Quentin looked at her with a nonplussed gaze. "Are you sure? I mean it's really no bother,'' Quentin argued but Big Mac put a hoof on his shoulder and smiled faintly at him.

"Thank fer the offer partner, but we got this. Besides, this is somethin' that the two of us really need ta go ourselves.''

Quentin looked disappointedly at the two hardworking ponies, but Applejack and Big Mac just smiled at him reassuringly. Quentin thought deeply. He wanted to help them out any way he could, but they insisted that they do what they need to do on their own. Though deep down, Quentin couldn't help but feel there was something more to this, 'errand' than they were telling him. However, not wanting to pry them further on the subject, he looked back at them and nodded with a small smile.

"Alright. I guess I'll see you two later then?''

Applejack cracked a smirk, walked up to Quentin and embraced him, "You know it sugarcube,'' Applejack responded softly.

Instantly when Applejack hugged him, a chill swept over Quentin's entire body immediately followed by a warm, tingly sensation. Quentin looked blankly at Applejack's sudden embrace and his face heated as a blush came through his fur. In spite of this, Quentin smiled warmly, before he wrapped his forearms around his friend to return the embrace.

After a moment or two, Quentin and Applejack broke apart and bid each other goodbye before Applejack and Big Mac turned around and headed off down the path. Quentin watched then as they walked and a concerned, frown slowly came to his face. Down on the path, Applejack walked silently with her brother, each with crestfallen glances.

"Y'all gonna be alright AJ?'' Big Mac asked sadly to his sister.

Applejack nodded and muttered solemnly, "Yeah, I'll be fine…fer know anyway.''

Big Mac immediately put a foreleg around her shoulders and brought her in for a one armed embrace. They continued down the path and after a quick detour to the stable, they made their way towards the entrance and out of Sweet Apple Acres. After seeing the two siblings off, Quentin couldn't think of anything to do, so he decided to head back to the farmhouse. He arrived at the house unhindered and walked into the living room.

"I wonder where Granny Smith is?'' Quentin asked himself as he looked around the empty living room.

Not receiving an answer, Quentin spotted the couch that was placed at the corner and walked over to it and sat down upon it. When he sat down, a portrait on the wall caught his attention. The picture depicted a male, dark bluish grey earth pony stallion holding a pitchfork in his right hoof. Beside him was a light purple earth pony mare with a fuchsia mane that curled a bit on her bangs and at the side of her neck. Behind the two ponies stood a house in the background. Seeing this, the portrait reminded Quentin of the American Gothic painted back on Earth and he chuckled at the sight.

"I swear, is Equestria just a pony version of Earth? Because there are things and places here that are just alike,'' Quentin wondered to himself.

Upon further observing around the simple, but charming and cozy room, Quentin's eyes fell upon a closed book that sat on top of a table that was in the center of the room. The book was simple in appearance. It had a brown cover and back where in the center on the front had a golden apple with gold designs around it in a diamond formation.

Curious, Quentin took a quick glance around to see no one present and got up and went over to the book. "I guess it wouldn't hurt to take a peek,'' Quentin spoke to himself. "After all, it's just a book.''

Upon opening the book, his eyes immediately fell upon the first two pages had four photographs, two on each page. Quentin winced slightly as he took a closer look at the photographs. "What do we have here?'' Quentin pondered softly, observing the pictures closely.

The pictures were black and white, leading Quentin to believe that these were taking quite a while back. In the first picture captured four, young earth pony mares sitting together with a large quilt in the middle of them. Being black and white, Quentin could never tell what color each pony was. However, they each had manes styled in ways females would wear in the old west. Quentin looked at the mare in the center to see her mane was in the style of shoulder length pigtails as was her tail. The mare was quite attractive to be honest.

Quentin gave out a whistle, "Wow wonder who that is?'' he spoke as he took the book back to the couch and sat down. Just as he was about to continue on looking through the album, Granny Smith walked in the living room. Upon seeing the young stallion, she smiled and greeted him.

"Well howdy Quentin.''

Quentin was caught off guard by the elderly mare's sudden appearance and he jumped in shock, whipping his head towards her.

"What?! Oh, h-hi there Granny Smith!'' Quentin greeted, smiling sheepishly for his reaction. "Sorry about that, you startled me.''

Granny Smith laughed lightly as she made her way towards him. "Now what are ya doin' here all on yur lonesome?''

"Oh well I was taking a break from working and decided to come in to relax a bit when I saw this photo album,'' Quentin began as he presented the book before his face fell in an apologetic gaze. "Sorry for looking in something so treasurable.''

Granny Smith laughed, "Aw fiddle sticks don't think nothin' of it.''

When Granny Smith had gotten to the couch, Quentin helped her to sit down as she continued, "So ya found our old photo album did ya?''

Quentin nodded, "Yes ma'am. I was just on the first page when you came in.'' Quentin showed Granny Smith the page he was at. She took one look at it and gave a bright smile.

"Hehe, oh I remember that one. This was taken durin' the Apple Family's first reunion. We've worked forever on finishin' the ol' quilt. Funny thing is…we still haven't finish it!''

Granny Smith laughed at this unfinished, generation long task and Quentin couldn't help but chuckle along with her. "So those four ponies are part of your family?'' Quentin asked.

"Sure is. Though that one in the middle is yours truly,'' Granny Smith answered, pointing to the mare that was in the center of the group.

Quentin' eyes instantly widened and his jaw dropped as he looked from the mare in the photograph to Granny Smith.

"Wait, that's you?!'' Quentin asked in disbelief.

"Yes indeedy. I was about Applejack's age in that picture. Why you ask? Was I easy on the eyes?'' Granny Smith asked with a sly grin, playfully nudging the young stallion.

"Yeah…I…well…'' Quentin stammered, a light blush on his face. The truth was that Granny Smith was indeed quite beautiful, by Quentin was embarrassed to admit it to the elder Apple member.

Granny Smith laughed, "So I take that as a yes then? I guess I was alright for a youngin'. Though I can't say much fer me now. An' it's true, Granny's a little rustier in the giddy up since that last time the Apple's been together.''

As Granny Smith said those words, she brought her hooves to the sides of her face and stretched her face upwards and to Quentin's utter shock the once wrinkled Granny Smith took on the young face of the mare she looked like in the photograph. Quentin stared at the seemingly rejuvenated Granny Smith with a face that bore the biggest, 'what the fuck?!'' expression he had probably ever had. However just as quickly Granny Smith became young, the skin on her face slid back down and Granny Smith was back to her elderly state.

"What…in…the…hell?!'' Quentin thought to himself, still staring dumbfounded.

Granny Smith shook her face as she spoke, "Nyeah that always leave my face stiffer than a board.'' She then looked back down at the album and grinned. "Oho, now I definitely remember this one!''

Quentin didn't respond at first, still trying to comprehend what in the world he had just seen. After a brief moment, Quentin finally snapped out of his shock and responded.

"Huh, what now?'' Quentin said as she gazed down at the picture.

He found that this photograph had a young Granny Smith with another young, earth pony mare. Like before, the black and white picture left the ponies' coats unidentifiable and the pony with Granny Smith had a mane styled like that from the country or old west.

"Who's that Granny Smith?'' Quentin ask while he looked at the picture.

Granny Smith smiled as she responded, "That's me with my favorite cousin Apple Rose.''

Quentin thought to himself while an amused smirk came across his face. "Applejack, Apple Bloom, and now Apple Rose. I know it's the Apple Family, but how many members' names actually starts with an apple?''

Granny Smith continued to describe the picture,'' Yep, right here we were in the seven legged race. We entered it every year.''

"Really, did you win any?'' Quentin asked curiously.

Granny Smith just laughed, "Nope! Every time we would get close ta the finish line, we would always fumble and trip right on our faces. We would lose, but Apple Rose an' I jus' couldn't help fallin' on our sides and laugh harder than hyenas!''

Quentin laughed heartily along with Granny Smith. So far from what she was telling him, the Apple Family sounded like an interesting clan.

"Can you show me more Granny Smith?'' Quentin asked eagerly.

"Well I wouldn't have this here album open if I wouldn't,'' Granny Smith responded with a smile.

The elderly mare turned the page to see four more pictures, two on each page. The first picture on the top, this time colored, was a shot of Applejack, Big Mac, and Apple Bloom along with an earth pony stallion Quentin had never seen before, but he figured he was part of the Apple Family. The four ponies were around a table outside somewhere on the farm with Big Mac and the unknown stallion sitting together at the table. Big Mac had an elbow casually sitting on the tabletop with that calm, half shut eyed smile of his while the supposed family member was happily eating a sandwich.

Apple Bloom sat near the munching stallion, looking at the camera with a nice smile while Applejack was near Big Mac as she smiled and waved at the camera. Quentin smiled while looking at the picture.

"That's the youngins with their cousin Wheat Straw. He was their durin' our last family reunion,'' Granny Smith informed.

Quentin nodded in understanding, ''And how often do the Apple Family come together for a family reunion?''

"Once every thirty moons. We've just had our last one about a month ago. Shame ya didn't come along before then. We would've love ta meet yall ta the family,'' Granny Smith said with a kind smile.

Quentin smiled warmly, flattered and appreciated. Quentin was already starting to fall in love with this family of four, to be able to meet the other members of this farming family would be a delight experience for the human.

"I would love to be able to meet them. You're really making all of them sound wonderful,'' Quentin responded genuinely.

"Who knows, if you're hear longer still, ya could experience the Apple Family Reunion first hoof fer yourself?'' Granny Smith said, nudging the stallion with a wink.

Quentin felt a saddened aching in his heart win Granny Smith made that suggestion. Though he would very much love to meet the other Apples, in his heart, he knew that wouldn't be possible. Quentin had no idea how long thirty moons were, but what he did know was that he would most definitely be gone way by then…and it was probably for the best.

Not wanting to think of this dreading thought, Quentin instead opted to change the subject by asking, ''Oh…I…well…what's going in this one?''

Quentin pointed to a picture at the bottom photo on the second page. The photo had Applejack, Big Mac, Granny Smith, Apple Bloom, as well as well over three dozen colorful, earth ponies all standing in front of the barn. Big Mac and Granny Smith were standing beside each other in the middle of the group while Apple Bloom was standing in the front in a row young fillies about her age. What really made Quentin smile was Applejack's position to which she was in front of her brother and grandmother, laying on her side on the ground while resting on a foreleg while she waved to the camera with her free arm as she smiled brightly.

The entire picture was just smile worthy, and Quentin found Applejack's position rather cute. Granny Smith smiled softly as she began to speak, "Ohoo, now this was takin' at the climax of our last reunion. An' boy what a reunion that was.''

"Really, how?'' Quentin asked.

Granny Smith looked at the young earth pony and answered, "Well this year, Applejack took it upon herself ta handle the preparations and what not. Turns out that she was tryin' a bit too hard ta make the reunion memorable.''

The elder earth pony ended with a sigh. Quentin tilted his head in confusion as his face fell slightly. "How? What happened?''

"Oh her heart was in the right place, but the child's overaggressive way ta make sure we all have a good time actually made it the opposite. It all lead up ta havin' the entire barn destroyed.''

Quentin's jaw dropped upon hearing this information. What's sort of series of unfortunate events could've possibly led to the climax of the Apples' barn being destroyed. Upon seeing Quentin's reaction, Granny Smith let out a laugh.

"Oh don't worry none young feller. The Apple Family manages ta work together and fixed the barn better than it was before the day even ended.''

"Wait a minute, you mean to tell me that you all were able to build an entire barn in just a few hours?'' Quentin asked in disbelief.

"Darn tootin'. It also helped ta sing along with a song ta help the work go by,'' Granny Smith said with a proud smile.

Quentin stared at Granny Smith for a moment before looking back down at the picture of the Apple Family in front of the newly constructed barn. Upon closer examination, Quentin was sure he could see twinkly on the barn that made it look brand, spanking new. "Wow. Building a fully constructed, walled, and roofed barn in a matter of hours…they put construction workers back on Earth to shame,'' Quentin thought to himself, still astonished by the fast labor.

His ear twitched as he heard snoring coming from his left side and Quentin turned his head to see Granny Smith with her head hanging downward as fell asleep, snoring loudly as she did so. Quentin looked at her with an expression that said 'are you serious?' as the grandmother went on with her spontaneous sleep.

"I know she did not just dozed off,'' Quentin spoke under his breath.

He then tapped Granny Smith gently on the shoulder and she reacted almost instantly. She quickly whipped her head upward and looked around quickly with an alarmed expression. "Huh? What happened? Where am I?''

Quentin had to suppress a snicker at her apparent obliviousness. "Um we're in the living room Granny Smith. You were showing me your family album.''

Granny Smith looked at Quentin before shaking her head to rid herself of any daze and grogginess before looking down at the open album and smiling.

"Oh yeah that's right I knew that.''

A light snicker escaped Quentin. One thing he was beginning to notice was while Granny Smith was a sweet, old lady, she could also be quite kooky and eccentric. From Granny Smith to Pinkie Pie, Quentin had witness behavior that could only exists in an animated world like Equestria.

Granny Smith turned the page and the first picture Quentin saw brought a bright, amused smile to his face. The photo was of an orange infant, girl pony. The infant was sitting innocently on her rump with two plates visible near her. Naturally for a baby, she had a short, blonde mane with apple shaped clips. She had beady, black eyes and was wearing nothing but a white diaper. On each of her cheeks were three white dots as freckles as well as what looked like spatters of brown food what it seemed with her tongue sticking out. The entire picture was nothing short of cute and Quentin spoke.

"No….freaking… way. Is that…Applejack?''

Granny Smith nodded as she looked at the picture fondly. "It sure is. The little whippersnapper done wandered away an' got into some apple fritters.''

Quentin chuckled at the silliness of the picture, but then smiled adoringly for its cuteness as he saw his good friend as she was a baby. "Well someone was a messy eater when she was little,'' Quentin commented with a grin.

Granny Smith laughed,'' An' then some. That day we found out that Applejack had the appetite of a full, grown stallion!''

Quentin and Granny Smith was then caught together in a hearty laughter, but the laughter didn't stop there. For the next couple of minutes, Granny Smith showed Quentin the rest of the album and the pictures it held. Quentin laughed and awed as he saw cute, funny, and adorable baby pictures of Big Mac and little Apple Bloom. Quentin saw countless of pictures as Granny Smith informed him the story of each one. The more photos Quentin saw, the more appreciating he was gaining for the Apple Family.

However, there came a time when Granny Smith turned a page and upon seeing the picture on it, her face instantly fell in dread and sadness. The photo was that of two earth ponies, a stallion and a mare. The stallion had a light green coat with familiar emerald eyes. He had a light brown, somewhat frazzled mane that went backward as well as light brown, frazzled sideburns. On top of his head was a brown Stetson hat. In all the stallion looked light a burly, strong sort yet he had a gentle smile on his face.

The mare possessed a light red coat with a dirty blonde mane that was braided and fell lovely over her left shoulder and a bang over her eyes. She had light pink eyes, which Quentin found quite lovely and beautiful. On her cheeks were three white dots that acted as freckles. In all the mare had an appearance that was similar to Big Mac, but was a beautiful sight to behold.

These were all the features that Quentin could make out before Granny Smith quickly closed the book. This sudden act caught Quentin by surprised, and he looked up to see the old mare looking away with a hoof over her face. She also seemed to be shaking slightly. At first her behavior was peculiar to Quentin before a worrisome frown came upon his face.

"Granny Smith?'' Quentin began with a concern tone.

Granny Smith didn't answer, she still looked away, her face buried in her hoof. Quentin was getting increasingly worried and once again he spoke up, this time tapping her gently. "G-Granny Smith? Are you ok?''

This time, the elder made a loud sneezing noise before whipping her head towards a bewildered, concerned Quentin.

"Oh excuse me there Quentin. Had a mighty strong sneeze that needed ta get out,'' Granny Smith said before sniffing.

Quentin looked at her, still a concerned look on his face. There was something not quite right about her so called 'sneeze'. It sounded as if it was forced, like it was fake.

"Are you sure that's all it was? I mean I can see tears in your eyes,'' Quentin challenged, giving the mare a questionable stare.

Granny Smith shook her head before whipping her eyes as she gave a reassuring smile. "Aw that jus' on the count on the darn dust in the air. Makin' my eyes water like I'm cuttin' onions.''

Quentin still wasn't convinced. He was sitting next to Granny Smith all this time and not once was his eyes irritated by anything, let alone dust. "Really? Cause I've been here this whole time and I've never felt any dust in my eyes.''

"Aw fiddlesticks. That's jus' because yall sittin' over there. It'd be different if you were in my place,'' Granny Smith argued, getting slightly annoyed.

Quentin continued to stare unconvincingly at Granny Smith. After moment or two, Granny Smith looked up at the clock and then back at Quentin with a calm, smile.

"Well land sakes jus' look at the time. I think we've flipped through this old album long enough.'' Granny Smith spoke, placing the album on the bookshelf.

"Yeah, perhaps we have,'' Quentin answered softly. Though he was still puzzled by Granny Smith's actions, he agreed that it was probably best for him to start back on the chores that still needed to be done.

"Besides, I still have a heapin' loads ta do around the barn. An' I've yapped ya to death long enough,'' Granny Smith said, with a sheepish smile.

At this Quentin smiled softly and shook his head. "You didn't waste my time yapping Granny Smith. I loved looking at the different pictures and hearing about the Apple Family. And I just want to thank you for all you've done and letting me stay here on such short notice.''

Now it was Granny Smith's turn to give the young, dreadlocked stallion a puzzled look at his words. "What's that now?''

Quentin's face fell slightly in sadness as she spoke. "It's just that, I've really have little to no happy memories of Fillydelphia. And the journey here wasn't any better. But being here with you, Applejack, Big Mac, and Apple Bloom really helped me to forget about those painful memories. You've all made me feel so welcomed ever since I've got here and…I'm really glad I decided to leave Fillydelphia to come to Ponyville.''

Granny Smith looked at Quentin with a slightly astonished look before a warm smile came across her face. Before Quentin could react, she had leaned forward and caught Quentin in a warm embrace.

"Now you don't need ta thank us one bit child. The Apples are always willin' ta help anypony that needs it. An' the truth is I'm glad ya came here to. You've been such a grand ol' help round the farm.''

Quentin sighed softly, before wrapping his forelegs around Granny Smith as he returned the hug. "It's the least I can do to repay you for your kindness.''

Granny Smith lifted her head and looked at Quentin right in the eyes while giving him a tender smile. "An' havin' ya hear is like I have another grandson in the house. Whatever bad that happen ta ya in Fillydelphia ya can jus' go on an' forget em'. As far as I'm concerned, you're part of the family an' yall can stay as long as ya want.''

Those words that came out of her mouth touched Quentin deeply. Here he was, once a complete stranger to them and on the spot they've welcomed him with open arms to stay with them. And in a short few days, he was already considered part of their wonderful family. With those words filling his heart, Quentin could see his vision become slightly blurry and the only thing he could think of doing was embrace Granny Smith again, this time a bit more strongly. The sudden embrace caught her off guard at first, but Granny Smith then smiled lovingly and warmly returned the hung.

For the remainder of the day, Quentin assisted any way he can with the tasks that needed to be done around the farm. Applejack and Big Mac had returned an hour after they left, but upon seeing, Quentin saw that their eyes were bloodshot and puffy, as if they've been crying. Quentin tried to ask them if anything was wrong, but Applejack insisted that they were ok and that the redness of their eyes were the result of an allergic reaction to some plants they passed by on the way home.

Quentin didn't entirely believe her explanation, but he decided not to further pry into the subject. He was convinced something was going on this day…something was wrong and he could feel it no matter how much they smiled at him. Quentin, Applejack, and the rest of the Apple Family had a delicious dinner of mashed potatoes, corn, biscuits, steamed carrots, and apple cobbler for dessert. However, the Apple family tonight seemed rather quiet that evening. Though they did made idle conversation from time to time, over all the setting just had a dismal feeling buried within it and it was really starting to trouble Quentin.

Later after dinner, Quentin went up to his room to relax. By the time dinner had ended, the sun was nearly set. A knock at the door sounded and he gave the ok to come in.

"Howdy there Quentin,'' Applejack greeted rather meekly as she came in the room. Quentin noticed she wasn't wearing her hat.

''No hat tonight huh?'' Quentin smirked.

Applejack looked at her friend blankly, ''Huh? What?'' After understanding what Quentin meant, Applejack giggled sheepishly,'' Well I thought I wouldn't wear it when I'm not on the job.''

Quentin laughed softly before speaking, "So what's up AJ?'' he asked.

"Well I just wanted to tell ya that I ran into Spike while I was out with Big Mac,'' Applejack responded.

Quentin looked a little concerned, ''Really, is everything alright?''

Applejack chuckled, ''Yeah everything's well an dandy. He jus wanted to let me know that tomorrow night will be a meteor shower that happens every 100 years and was invitin me to go with Twilight and the other girls.''

The stallion widened his eyes at the news. "Wow, every hundred years huh? A centennial celebration.''

"Yeah ya can say that. An of course you're more than welcome to tag along,'' Applejack grinned.

Quentin nodded with a smile, ''Sound good to me AJ. Thanks for telling me.''

"Anytime pardner. Ya mind if we chat fer a bit?''

Quentin smiled softly at his farm pony friend. "Yeah I'd like that.'' He patted a spot on the bed next to him to gesture her to come over. Applejack grinned and she sat next to Quentin. The two conversed for what seemed like hours. Quentin definitely felt more at ease with Applejack more than any of his friends. As they talked, a question came to Applejack as her face fell slightly.

''Rarity showed everypony that ruby ya gave her a few days back.''

"Yeah, I'm surprised she made a big deal about a little jewelry,'' Quentin half chuckled.

Applejack nodded, "Yeah, Rarity can be a bit obsessive when it comes to that kind of stuff. Though I'm not interested in those sort of things, I do admit it's a mighty fine piece ya got her.''

Quentin replied, ''Yeah I guess it is. When I found it, I immediately thought of her and knew it would be perfect for her.''

Applejack frowned sadly, looking away. Quentin noticed this and tilted his head, a look of concerned on his face. ''AJ are you ok?''

Applejack gazed at him and spoke, forcing a slight smile, ''Yea Quen I'm fine. You an' Rarity must be getting really close huh?''

The human shrugged, ''Well, she's a great friend. She's beautiful and very talented when it comes to fashion, but she's not cocky or conceited in any way. Plus, her generosity knows no bounds. I found that admiring about her.''

Applejack nodded sadly. "So...I guess giving her that ruby and all...do ya have, ya know...feelings fer her?''

Quentin stared at Applejack shockingly. Did Applejack really think he loved Rarity? She looked at him with a sad, bewildering gaze as she spoke, ''Quen it's ok if ya are. I won't tell anypony I promise if that's what ya want?''

Quentin immediately raised his hooves in the air and denied her assumptions. "Whoa, whoa, whoa Applejack it's not like that. I don't have feelings for Rarity!''

Applejack looked at him, a look of surprise, hope, and excitement upon her lovely, freckled faced. "Really, Quentin? Ya don't?''

Quentin shook his head. ''Of course not. I mean yeah she great, but we're just friends, and I appreciate her willingness to help me and not asked for anything in return.''

Quentin had to look away from Applejack. That little shock was actually pretty breathtaking. Applejack sighed, apparently relieved. After a moment of silence between the two, Quentin looked at Applejack and spoke.

''That was quite a bit of a shock Applejack. I was never expecting that.''

Applejack chuckled nervously, ''My apologies Quentin. Besides, it's not right fer me ta pry on yur personal life.''

Quentin chuckled. Applejack was so modest and considerate to everyone, that's one of the reasons why he was charmed about her. "It's cool AJ really. And besides, it wouldn't work out. She's a pony and I'm...a human.''

Applejack frowned at this. "Right, I keep forgettin that y'all not really a pony.''

Quentin nodded, "Yeah and I think this is proof.'' He then pointed to his bare flanks. "I think me being without a cutie mark means that no matter what, I'll always be a human at heart. Why else wouldn't I have one?''

Applejack nodded slightly before speaking, "But, should that really matter? I mean I don't really care, an I think ya shouldn't either.''

Quentin just shrugged at this. After a moment of silence, he looked over at the farm pony and grinned.

"And what about you? I'm sure a lot of guys around here are always trying to talk to you.''

Applejack chuckled awkwardly and shook her head. "Well actually, I've never had any stallions talk to me.''

Quentin found the response a little unbelievable. "Really? C'mon AJ I think your just being a bit modest.''

Applejack shook her head. "Nah, I mean they'll talk to me, but not as if their interested in being serous with me. Besides, I'm not too keen on romance. With this job, I jus don't have the time to lallygandin around town with one. Though I admit, it would be nice.''

Applejack looked a bit distraught as she told Quentin and averted her eyes. The human turned stallion looked at her quizzically. He would never believe that not one guy in Ponyville would want to at least try to start a serious relationship with her. Quentin placed a hoof on her shoulder.

"I seriously don't believe that Applejack. Why would any guy ignore such a beautiful girl like you?''

Applejack gazed into Quentin's deep brown eyes, speechless expression on her face. She looked for the slightest trace that Quentin was just saying that to make her feel better, but she found that he was being sincere with what he said and blushed. She chuckled softly. "Well in all honesty Quentin, yur the first man to actually compliment me on my looks. Is a farm bumpkin like me really beautiful?''

Quentin smiled warmly, ''You're very beautiful AJ. And being a farm girl just adds to your charm and beauty.'' It was all true, Applejack had a unique quality about her that made her beautiful in her own way.

Applejack smiled fondly at Quentin, ''I'm flattered Quentin. An' I really appreciate yur comments.''

Quentin chuckled, "Though I must admit, I really can't picture you wearing a dress at all.''

Applejack laughed at this and responded, ''Smart thinkin, cause I absolutely hate dresses unless the occasion calls for it, but if it don't...no sir!''

"I can totally relate, I hate wearing suits. Though I know sometimes the occasion calls for it to be appropriate at the time, but suits just aren't my style,'' Quentin said before adding with a mutter, "Not like I could've ever afford a suit anyway.''

Applejack smiled softly, ''Well I don't know Quentin, I thin ya would look mighty fine in a good suit, like the handsome stallion ya are.''

Quentin smirked while wiggling his eyebrows as he spoke playfully, ''Well I am a smooth talker am I? The ladies just fall for it.''

Applejack rolled her eyes playfully and lightly pushed him away, ''Yeah right. A regular, silver tongued Casanova.''

Quentin and Applejack both shared a laugh. As they laughed, Applejack and Quentin leaned on each other. After a moment, the two ceased their laughter before a brief silence came over them. Not wanting to just sit there and potentially make the moment awkward, Quentin asked.

"So, what exactly did you and Big Mac had to do earlier?''

Applejack did not immediately reply. She didn't even look at Quentin. At the question, that once laughing pony now bore a somber, almost hurt frown. Quentin's own face fell with concern for his friend. "Um, Applejack?''

Instantly, Applejack whipped her head upwards and looked at Quentin with a bright smile. "Oh earlier? Why we were jus' meeting up with customers, that's all.''

Quentin looked at Applejack as she continued to give him a tight smile. Quentin bore a slight frown as she spoke, "Customers? Why?''

"Well ya know, orders ta fill an' what not. I mean Sweet Apple Acres is where Ponyville gets the majority of its apples,'' Applejack answered. "Yep ponies sure do want their apples when they want them.''

Quentin stared at the farm pony and observed her closely. Through her tight, smile, Quentin could see the desperation of Applejack hoping that he was fall for whatever lie she was clearly telling. Quentin's frown grew and he finally said.

"You're lying.''

This caught Applejack off caught and she falter. "W-What? Why I ain't lying!'' Applejack denied, raising her hooves in defense.

"Yes you are,'' Quentin argued, his frown never once leaving his face as he stared at Applejack.

The southern mare then bore a more irritated glare as she spoke, "Look, Big Mac an' I were meetin' and dealin' with our customers. We do need money ta stay afloat after all. An' we can't make money if we don't satisfy our customers. So that exactly what we did, ensued that their orders were taken an' delivered when they needed it!''

Though he still gave his friend a slight glare, Quentin did thought about her response. True that Sweet Apple Acres was a farm as well as a business. And for a business to thrive they will need to money of their customers to keep it alive and well.

However, despite this logical reasoning, Quentin still felt that feeling of being lied to by his friend, and he didn't believe her answer one bit. Quentin sighed deeply and then he spoke, a stern, hurt expression on his face.

"Look Applejack, I know your lying.''

"Quentin!'' Applejack started to argue a bit aggressively but was cut off by the stallion.

''Applejack just don't ok?''

Applejack stared at Quentin, speechlessly with a deep frown on her face.

Quentin spoke, "Look, for this entire day I've felt this sense of gloom while working on the farm. First I came downstairs to see you and the rest of your family with tear filled eyes. Then Apple Bloom suddenly cried out of nowhere as I took her to school.''

At this knowledge, Applejack gasped lightly before a weary frown came upon her freckled face. "Apple Bloom…cried?'' she asked softly.

Quentin nodded with a now saddened gaze. "Yes, and while Granny Smith was showing me your family album, she suddenly acted strange and looked away for a moment. She said she was sneezing but…but I think she was crying.''

"Granny Smith too? God almighty…'' Applejack spoke under her breath, gritting her teeth as she looked away, her ears dropping in sadness.

"No matter how many times you said everything was alright, I couldn't help but feel that in actuality…everything wasn't,'' Quentin said.

Applejack said noting, just kept averting her gaze from Quentin with a dismal expression.

"Look Applejack, you've lied to me already before. And I know it was so I wouldn't catch on to finding out about the surprise celebration for me in town, but I still felt hurt that you drove me away so harshly. So please…don't lie to me again…please.''

As Quentin spoke, he had an almost desperate, pleading gaze and tone to him. After a few moments, Applejack looked at her friend with a rather unhappy expression. Upon seeing the pleading look in his eyes, Applejack finally let out a sigh and muttered in defeat.

"Fine, alright Quentin…ya win.''

Quentin felt relieved that the lies were stopping, but he remained intent as re readied to listen to his friends true explanation. After a few moments of silence, Applejack shifted in her spot and began to speak, not looking at him with an extremely forlorn expression.

"Yur right Quentin. The one thing I absolutely hate is lyin' ta ponies. I hate lyin' ta my friends…an' I hate lyin' ta you too.''

Quentin merely nodded as he waited for Applejack to continue.

"Truth be told big Mac an' I weren't leavin' ta meet with customers or anythin' like that. The real reason we left was ta see our…parents,'' Applejack finally spoke, wincing and gritted her teeth at the very word 'parents'.

"Your…parents?'' Quentin repeated quizzically.

Applejack nodded silently, that somber expression never leaving her face.

Now that Applejack had mentioned it, Quentin had never once heard them speak or even mentioned their parents. Applejack, Big Mac, and Apple Bloom were siblings living with their grandmother, and it wasn't until now that the very thought of their parents came to him.

"But Applejack, why would you want to lie about something like that?'' Quentin asked. "How is visiting your parents even bad enough to lie about it? In fact where were you visiting them at? Don't they live here on the farm?''

Applejack shook her head, "No, they don't,'' she answered dismally.

It was then that a bad feeling came to his gut as a dreadful thought came to his mind. "Applejack…you're not estrange from them or anything are you?

It was then Applejack looked at Quentin with a very woeful expression and answered, "No, it's nothing like. It's…the reason why…dear lord…''

Quentin leaned back to give Applejack room for air as he looked at her with a truly worrisome, concerned frown. The bad feeling in his stomach became worst as he waited for Applejack to speak. Now, Quentin wasn't sure if he really wanted to know what was about to tell him and yet at the same time, he wanted to know what was the cause of the melancholy atmosphere he felt that entire day.

At last after finding the strength she needed, Applejack finally opened her mouth and spoke. "My parents don't live on the farm anymore. And Big Mac an' I were out visiting them…at the cemetery.

The look of utter shock and horror that was on Quentin's face was indescribable. Applejack's…Applejack's, Big Mac's, and Apple Bloom's parents…were dead? There was nothing Quentin could say about that, how could he say anything about that? These three siblings so young, were actually orphans?

"Applejack…I…'' was all Quentin could say before finally swallowing a lump in his throat and asked. "If you mind my asking, how exatly…''

Almost immediately, Applejack sighed as she buried her face in her hooves. Instantly, Quentin went to her side to comfort her, putting his forelegs around her.

"I'm sorry Applejack. I didn't meant to…I'm so sorry, you don't have to tell me.''

That's when Applejack lifted her face and looked at Quentin with wet eyes, tears in the corners of them. "No don't apologize. An' I' can tell ya. I've been holdin' this in all day. I…I need ta get this out of me. Though not even our friends know this. Promise me ya won't tell them.''

Quentin looked at his distressed friend with an extremely concerned gaze but nodded, "Ok Applejack, I promise I won't tell, and please take your time.''

Applejack nodded, giving her friend a tiny, sad smile in gratitude. After taking a couple deep breathes to regain her composure, she looked at were, her emerald eyes still misty, but she was ready to say what she needed to say.

Quentin just nodded, telling her to start when she was ready and after a one final breath, she spoke. "My parents…they were the best ones that we've could possibly wish for. They were always good ta each other and were always kind ta us.''

Applejack's lips curled as a faint smile came to her as she thought about the wonderful times with her parents. "My Pa taught me everything' I know about rodeos, lassos, herdin' an applebuckin. He was a rodeo champion. I always loved it when he would take me ta competitions and watch him win blue ribbon after blue ribbon. He got me Winona fer one of my birthday an even after a hard day's work on the farm, he would still play with me even when he was bone tired. That was jus' one of the reasons why I loved him so much.''

Quentin watched Applejack closely as he bore a small sad smile. As Applejack continued to talk, the tears in her eye welled up and she swallowed a lump in her throat that formed. "And there was my Ma. She was the kindest, warmest, most generous pony I've ever known. She was also the best cook in our family. She taught me how ta make apple pie, apple cobbler among other things. She was always there fer us when we needed her. Every time we were sad, she was there to dry our tears an' every time we were lonely she was there ta comfort us. An' no matter what she an' Pa would always take the opportunity ta tell us they loved us, even if we already knew it. Ma an' Pa…they were my whole world.''

As she paused, a lone tear escaped Applejack's eye and rolled down her face as she started to shake lightly. The tiny small that was once on Quentin's face had now dissolved and he watched her with a sympathetic, sorrowful glance. That's when a thought hit him and he remembered a certain photo he saw in the album earlier that day.

"They sound like great people. Applejack, when Granny Smith was showing me the album, I saw a picture with a green stallion with a light, reddish mare. That was the picture Granny Smith closed the book on so suddenly. Those two ponies, we're they…''

Applejack whipped her eye and nodded as she responded, "Yeah, those two were Haralson Apple an' Honey Blossom. They were my Ma an' Pa.''

Quentin nodded and said meekly, "It may have only been brief, but they looked really happy together.''

Applejack let out a short laugh as another tear escaped her eyes. "Yeah they did. They loved each other very much. Hardly fought at all.''

And then that dreaded question loomed in Quentin's mind again. He was reluctant to ask again, especially seeing the emotion and pain it was causing Applejack. However something broke passed his hesitation and the question escaped his mouth while he asked caringly and cautiously.

"And…how exactly…what happened to them?''

At the question, Applejack closed her eyes as more tears rolled down her face. Quentin could feel his own eyes beginning to well up as he saw the pain of Applejack having to remember her parent's death. Applejack whipped some more tears only for more tears to replace them. She opened her eyes and looked at Quentin with the most cafard, miserable expression the human had ever seen on her beautiful face.

"It happened a few years back, when I was a filly. Me, Ma, and Pa were on our way back ta Ponyville from visiting a relative when we were startin' ta approach Ghastly Gorge…''

Applejack paused and gave another deep breath to try to keep herself from breaking down. Quentin placed a hoof on hers and she looked at him. He tear filled eyes met his which showed that he was going to be here for her. Applejack nodded, swallowed and continued.

"As we came ta the gorge, we heard a scream rang out. We went ta investigate ta see Rarity was on the bridge.''

Quentin was shocked by the fact that Rarity was present there on that day. "Rarity?''

"Applejack nodded, more tears falling. "Yeah. She was lookin' fer gems when she came ta the bridge. She thought she could go across but when she tried, an end of the rope had snapped, tipping the bridge over to the side. Rarity was danglin' an' hangin' fer her dear life.''

Quentin just looked at his friend with a horrified, disbelieving look. He was speechless that Rarity had been at death's door once before. Applejack continued.

"Ma and Pa saw that Rarity was gonna fall any second. Without hesitation, they ran ta the bridge an' my Ma held the other rope so it wouldn't snap while my Pa went on the bridge an' climbed ta where Rarity was ta bring her back.''

Applejack paused for a moment, the pain of that fateful day stabbing her heart relentlessly. Regardless, she ignored the internal pain and continued on with her story.

"Big Mac an' I could only watch on, terrified fer our parents and Rarity. Pa was able ta get ta Rarity an' he placed her on his back and made his way back ta the edge of the bridge. Jus' when they were close ta Ma, the rope had snap. They would've fell, by Ma was quick enough ta catch the rope in her mouth.''

By this time, Quentin could feel himself beginning to shake from the tale he was hearing. The words from Applejack's story as well as other things were raging inside his head and heart. Applejack continued speaking.

"From the rope snapping, Pa almost lost his grip, but he managed ta hang onto the bridge. Rarity fell off his back, by Pa caught her by her hoof. I can remember it like it happened yesterday. Pa and Rarity were both hangin' on fer their lives over a chasm with a raging river below. Then with all his strength, Pa heaved Rarity over the edge where I caught her an' bring her up. Ma was slidin' closer an' closer to the edge as she hung onto Pa an' then…''

Applejack pinched her eyes shut as tears cascaded down her face as she gritted her teeth. Quentin looked at her with misty eyes and a crestfallen expression. In his heart and from Applejack's reaction, he could only guess what happened next.

Through tears, Applejack finished her story, " The next thing I knew I heard a snap followed by screamin'. I listened as Pa an' Ma screamed as they went over the edge. I saw as Pa an' Ma fell down into the gorge. All I could do was watch…watch as I saw my parents fall into the gorge, their screaming disappeared and the only thing I could hear was the river below. I don't remember even helping Rarity over the edge. The next thing I remembered was me bein' on the ground and Rarity cradled me. I felt somethin' cold fell on my face constantly as Rarity repeatedly apologized. It was as if time stopped. I stared at the edge of the cliff hopin' an' prayin' that it was all jus' an hallucination. I stared at the edge of the cliff hopin' an' prayin' that Pa an' Ma would climb over the edge an' that they'd be alright. Nothin'…I waited an' waited but I never saw them. It was jus' me and Rarity as she jus' repeatedly apologized with me in her arms.''

Upon finishing, all of Applejack's emotions had gotten the better of her and she just broke down.

As she sobbed, Quentin just stared at her, his face showing empathy, shock, sadness, and grief as his hoof stayed onto hers. He couldn't even begin to imagine how it must feel to actually witness one's parents' deaths right before your eyes. Quentin's mouth quivered as he began to rub Applejack's back in hopes to comfort her.

"Applejack…I… does Apple Bloom know?'' Quentin uttered.

Applejack sniffed, ''She…she was jus' a baby when it happened. She didn't get much time with them at all. But when she had gotten older, she asked us about our parents. We had ta tell her the truth. We couldn't lie about it…about this.''

Quentin nodded drearily in understanding. "So that's was the real reason she cried today. That project she told me about…it was really more to do with her parents. Damn to have such a misery to put on the back of a small child,'' Quentin spoke with a hurt tone as he gritted his teeth.

Applejack nodded as she cried softly, "An' I'm ashamed ta say I didn't set a great example after it happened. So ashamed about how I acted. The world changed fer all of us that day. Granny Smith did everything she could ta take care of the three of us. The rest of the family came together to help get us back on our hooves. But after a while, it was just us again. It was up ta Big Mac and I ta handle the more physical aspects of Sweet Apple Acres. The farm was jus' so…so quiet. Just thinkin' about them…it hurt.''

Quentin said nothing, just kept listening in weariness as Applejack explained through her tears.

"I was tired of feelin' so much pain an' sadness. I started ta force myself ta feel nothing. It was easier that way. I went on like that fer awhile until…one night Apple Bloom started cryin' in her crib. She cried and cried…I knew she needed her ma and pa, but they would never be there for her. I actually tried ta force myself ta walk away, ta shut out the cryin'. I actually didn't want anythin' ta do with her…but…''

Applejack continued as she cried more heavily. "But I jus' couldn't bring myself ta do it. I couldn't jus' bring myself not ta love my baby sister. I knew that Ma an' Pa would be ashamed of my behavior. They died because they were tryin' ta save Rarity. They died because they were doin' a heroic act. If I was ever gonna honor my parents, I knew that I would have ta do what I know they wanted me ta do…be there fer my sister, brother, and grandmother an' that's what I did from then on. I worked to the bone with Big Mac ta ensure that nothin' would happen ta the rest of our family.''

Quentin couldn't help but give a tiny, sad smile at this. Even though Applejack was going through so much pain and heartache, she pulled through that pain in order to take care of her family's needs. Quentin really admired her strong will and her sense of doing what it took to take care of those she loved.

After calming down a bit, Applejack spoke, more tears running down her cheeks, "An' that hat was my Pa's. It's the only thing I have ta remember him by. I always wear it cause it makes me feel like he an' ma are always with me.''

"That's the reason Rarity was at the cemetery crying. She was visiting your parents. She was there when it happen, lord only knows how she must feel? And that's why she was there today, it happened on this day didn't it?'' Quentin spoke in a dejected tone.

Applejack whipped her tears with a nod, "Yeah, Rarity felt so horrible after the incident. She felt so guilty about the whole thing. She thought that if she hadn't gone onto that bridge this terrible ordeal wouldn't have happened. I…I don't know if she still feel any different.''

Quentin looked away somberly. When he saw Rarity that day, she was in pretty bad shape. Quentin understood why Rarity would break down like the way she did. The fact that Applejack's parents died trying to save her, her heart must be weighed heavily with guilt.

"Yeah when I saw her, she looked like a mess. She even broke down when I asked her about her being at the cemetery.'' Quentin spoke.

Applejack sniffed, "An' for a moment, I did blame her. I was jus' so mad that she was in a position that ended up with my parent's lives were lost. But eventually I realized that it wasn't her fault. I was just mad at myself because…I felt like it was my fault.''

Quentin looked at his weeping friend with a slightly agasp expression.

"Maybe…if I was a bit faster…if I was just a bit stronger then….'' Applejack spoke in between sniffs as tears streamed down her face.

At this Quentin knew he had to speak, to comfort her to help elevate that guilt she must have been feeling for years now.

"Applejack it wasn't…'' was all Quentin could say before Applejack cut him off. She faintly smiled at him tearfully before speaking.

"Thanks Quentin, but you don't need to say anything. I've heard it plenty of times how it wasn't anypony's fault. Every pony always sayin' that everyhing's gonna be alright but it really doesn't. I love my friends with all my heart but, they jus' could never understand this pain that I live with every single day.''

Quentin stared at her for a moment before he closed his eyes. They started to quiver lightly as did his mouth until he finally spoke.

"Others could never understand the pain that you have and are going through. They could never understand the hole in your hear that is left behind when death claims those you loved most.''

At his words, Applejack looked at Quentin with a blank, shocked expression, tears ever so flowing down her face.

Quentin continued, "Others could never understand how empty and broken you feel when you've lost a love one like that. They couldn't even possible imagine turmoil you feel in your heart, the anger you feel for the world, and no amount of kind words could ever heal that wound. No matter how sincere, no matter how kind or warm those comforting words are because…you just want so much more than that but deep in your heart you're never going to get it.''

Applejack continued to stare at her friend as Quentin continued to look away. Everything Quentin had said, every word he uttered was exactly how Applejack had felt right down to the core.

"Quentin…how…did you know all that? How could you possibly invoke everythin' that I feel like that ta a tee?''

"I know that because I know exactly how it feels. I know that because…'' Quentin turned to Applejack with the most sorrowful expression he had ever bore as tears streamed down his face. "I also lost my parents.''

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5Lwy3nVg1I

Applejack couldn't believe what her ears just heard. She couldn't speak or respond. All she could do was stare into his tearful, woe stricken eyes as tears still flowed from her own, emerald eyes.

"Y-You've lost your parents?'' Applejack asked in total disbelief.

Quentin nodded. He then looked down onto his pendant and stroked it tenderly. He began to speak, not looking at Applejack.

"My parents were both doctors, medics back on Earth. Well one night, a massive gang riot broke out in the city we lived in at the time. A lot of people were getting hurt…a lot of people were getting killed.''

Applejack listened on with horror, but she didn't dare interrupt Quentin's story. Quentin continued.

"With so much chaos and disarray, the city needed all the help they could get and being medics, my parents couldn't just stay and left people get injured and die. And so…''

Quentin paused as his voiced began to crack on his last word. He closed his eyes and pinched out tears while he gritted his teeth. Applejack looked on tearfully, empathetically as she put a reassuring hoof on his. She knew it was now time for her to comfort and be there for him just like he had been.

"It's ok Quentin…'' Applejack spoke tearfully. "When jus' wait till yur ready.''

Quentin took a deep breath before he opened his eyes, tears streaming down his face "And so they went out into the city to help out anyway they can. They tended to dozens of injured among the riots. But…''

Quentin took another deep breath and continued, the tears still flowing. "As they were tending to some victims, they both were hit by stray bullets.''

Applejack now looked at her solemn friend in bewilderment at his last words. "Bullets? What in tarnation are bullets.''

"Bullets are projectiles that are fired from a firearm we call guns. Depending on how it's used, they could greatly injure someone, even kill them.'' Quentin explained.

Applejack stared at Quentin, astounded and taken aback at such an invention that could potentially kill another. "Ya sayin' humans made something that…kills other humans?''

Quentin shook his head and looked at her with a sort of crooked grimace, "No, 'guns' don't kill people. They don't just get up and commit the murders themselves. It's the hand that wields the gun are the killers, not the gun themselves.''

Applejack looked at Quentin for a moment or two before nodding slowing in understanding. She then bore a more saddened look as she asked though she felt like she knew the answer, "So…what happened to yur parents?''

The grimace look Quentin had turned desolate and wretched as he hurtfully answered.

"After they were hit, they were rushed to the hospital but…buy halfway there they had already succumbed to their injuries. They…died in the ambulance before even making it to the hospital.''

Quentin closed his eyes again as tears streamed fluidly down his face. Applejack could only look at him hurtfully, tears cascading down her own face as Quentin let out all of his pain and suffering.

"Oh Quentin…'' Applejack began, her voice cracking.

"I was just a baby when they died. I really don't remember them at all. The only thing I have of them is this.'' Quentin began trying not to allow himself to break down in a sob. He lifted his pendant to show to Applejack.

Applejack observed it as she stroked it gently. "They gave you this?'' she asked.

"Yeah,'' Quentin answered. He then pressed down on the tiny knob and the front clicked open. He then showed Applejack the picture of his parents that lied within the pendant. Applejack gazed upon the very first pair of humans she had ever seen. She was in awe yet still very saddened by the atmosphere of the room.

"So this are how humans look like?'' Applejack asked.

Quentin nodded.

Applejack then noticed how they were in a tender embrace with loving smiles and she couldn't help but smile faintly herself. "Why they look jus' wonderful. Like they loved each other very much.''

Quentin gave a tiny, but tearful smile. "They do don't they? My aunt told me everything about them. She said they got this pendent for me when I was a baby.'' As Quentin spoke, his small smile faded into another depressing frown.

"I lived with my aunt until I was five. That…that was when she suffered a heart attack and died before help showed up.''

Applejack stared at Quentin in shock, horror, and disbelief. "Ya…ya lost yur aunt too?''

Quentin breathed deeply as he responded with tears. "She didn't have a lot, but she made sure that I had everything to be happy. I loved her so much. She was the only family I had left when she died. Afterwards, I went to live at an orphanage…I had nowhere else to go.''

As Quentin sat silently, Applejack went over to him as put a foreleg around her friend. Though she was comforting him, she too was crying as she wept for her pain as well as for Quentin's. After a few minutes, Quentin calmed down a bit and looked at Applejack.

"I stayed at the orphanage until I was old enough to live on my own. All while I stayed at the orphanage, people always gave me their condolences but they don't have the faintest idea of what they're talking about. They always say that they understand what I am going through, but they could never understand how it feels to go through their entire lives without waking up to hear good morning form their dad or go to sleep after a bedtime story and hearing good night I love you from your mom. People always telling me that they know what it feels like, they could never know how it feels to wake up in the middle of the night after a horrible nightmare, but you can't climb into your parents bed for comfort and protection.''

Applejack said nothing, just remained there with a foreleg around Quentin as tears dripped from her face as she listened silently. Quentin continued.

"People always say that I'm not alone in this, but they could never see the lies in that statement. They could never understand what it feels like to try to look for someone who could possibly understand what you are going through, but when you can't you realize just how alone you really are. People always say that I had the love of my parents with me, they could never understand how it feels to never hear those words first hand from their parents, even if you knew that they loved you. People always say that they are there if I needed help, but they could never understand how to be totally vulnerable, how you can look at someone with eyes that could level you with just a gaze. How you scream and shout for help to ease you from this goddamn pain that you feel constantly, only to know that they could never help it. They could never go into your heart to take away that pain that causes you so much grief because life wasn't made to be so easy or so fair. They don't know about real loss even when they claim otherwise if it will mean for you to feel less depressed. They could never realize that their comforting, ignorant words only leaves the wound open.''

Silence was among the two equines. Applejack couldn't even begin to find the words to speak. Not only did Quentin know precisely what she was going through, but he had to endure a third lost that let him completely alone. Though she had lost her parents, Applejack knew that at least she had gotten to know then before their passing, and for this Applejack felt especially sympathetic for Quentin.

"Quentin…I had no idea,'' Applejack muttered.

Quentin grief stricken face became one of anger and hatred as he spoke with a bitter tone. "And for a moment, I started to hate the world…to hate life. I hated the fact that all this misery happened to me. I hated the fact that everyone else was born with a happy beginning to their story while I was born with a sad and dismal one that only seemed to never get any better. For a moment I just hated everything and everyone but…''

Quentin's hate filled glare turned into an ashamed, weary frown as he looked at his pendant. He turned it over and read out the inscription that was written on the back.

''From despair there is faith. From sorrow there is love. Never lose faith…Never stop loving.''

Quentin then looked at Applejack. "My parents had this inscribed on the bad before giving it to me. They wanted me to keep pressing through no matter what harsh, unfair aspect that life throws at me. They wanted me to believe that one day good will come to me if I never give in to despair and always believe in a light that I was meant to have. They wanted me to no matter what sorrow befalls me, no matter what misery that I see or will and have endured…to never cease loving from my heart. My parents died trying to help people and I'm proud of that. If I was going to honor them and what they stood for, I knew that I had to live by the inscription the had left to me.''

Applejack looked at Quentin and though tears were still present, she was amazed by his willingness to go through life without losing the kindness that he had. Applejack then gave Quentin a tearful smile as she whipped her eyes.

"An' I'm glad ya did that Quentin. I jus' can't see ya living yur life hatin' everything. That kind, gentle, lovin' heart of yours…I don't ever want ya ta change that.''

Quentin gave a faint smile as he too whipped away some tears. "Don't worry Applejack, I won't. I just want to make my parents proud. And I'm gonna do everything in my power to do so.''

"I know you will Quentin. I know you have. They've had one hay of a child that turned out to be a great son, and a great friend.''

Words couldn't even begin to describe the warmth Quentin had from Applejack's words. It was probably helped by the fact the she too had lost her parents and so she understood what he was going through. Quentin smiled gratefully, tears escaping from his eyes.

"And you're parents had one heck of a daughter along with Big Mac and Apple Bloom. Despite your loss, you've all became a close and loving family that showed kindness to all that came to you, like letting a stranger live in your house when he had nowhere else to go.''

Quentin placed a hoof on Applejack's cheek as he spoke tenderly, "They had such great children. And they've had a daughter that turned out to be the greatest friend I've ever had. I know Granny Smith is proud of you, so it's only natural that your parents are looking down right now with all the love and pride their have for their daughter.''

It seemed Quentin's words had touched Applejack deeply. She let out a small laugh before she buried her face in Quentin's chest. It wasn't long before Quentin felt the fur of his chest dampen as Applejack began to shaking lightly. Quentin saw her body rise slowly before retracting as the farm pony took deep breaths as she cried into his chest.

Quentin smiled briefly before he put a foreleg around her and brought her in for a reassuring, comforting embrace. He buried his face into Applejack's blonde mane as he too began to cry. The two friends just sat there, both crying in sorrow for their losses but also in relieve and happiness that each of them now knew that they did not have to go through this pain alone. From their sadness, they've found a kindredness that made their bond even stronger. Unbeknownst to them that in the night sky, two shooting stars flew next to each other over the farm before disappearing into the night.

Quentin and Applejack didn't know how long they were sitting there crying, but they didn't care. They were happy that they've found a newfound bond and relationship that only they could share with each other. Soon enough, the clock rang as it read eight o' clock. Applejack and Quentin lifted their heads and began to compose themselves.

"Oh, I didn't realize how late it was getting','' Applejack said as she whipped her eyes and sniffed.

Quentin did the same before answering with a small smile, "Yeah, time flies by when you're bonding with a friend.''

Applejack nodded with a sad smile, "Yeah, I'm glad that now we don't have ta go through this on our own.''

"Sure thing. I'll always be here when you need someone to talk to about these things.'' Quentin said with a reassuring smile.

Applejack smiled gratefully and went forward and surprised Quentin with a hug. Instantly, a chill went throughout Quentin's body replaced by a warm sensation. He felt his face heat up as a faint blush came to his cheeks.

''That was a nice talk we've had Quentin. I really needed that,'' Applejack spoke softly in the stallion's ear.

Quentin's blank, surprised gaze turned into a calm, content smile as he sighed, returning the embrace. "Believe me Applejack, you're not the only one that needed it.''

"Don't worry Quen, I know. Now I have at last one friend that I can have a heart to heart talk to about this. And I've never been happier for it.'' Applejack whispered in Quentin's ear.

Before they broke apart, she nuzzled Quentin's face. A warm feeling came to his body as she did so, but the feeling felt...nice and he didn't want it to end especially after such an emotional conversation.

"I guess I should start hittin' the hay. Got some hard work to do in the morning. Well g'night Quentin. See ya tomorrow,'' Applejack said with a tender smile.

Quentin nodded with a warm smile of his own. "Yeah, good night AJ.''

Applejack turned and walked out the room, closing the door behind her. She pressed her back to the door and looked at the floor. Though she still had tears in the corners of her eyes, she smile warmly and bit her lower lip, twirling her mane with a hoof. She then made her way down the hall in into her room before a though came to her mind.

"I've got one more piece of business ta take care of that I've been puttin' off fer a while now. An' I won't truly be able ta move on it I don't deal with it.''

At the Carousel Boutique, Rarity cried on her couch, her face buried in her hooves when she heard a knock at her door. She lifted her face, tears and mascara staining her face.

"Who…in heaven's name could that be at this hour?'' Rarity sniffed.

It took all of the unicorn's strength to get off the couch and went to the door. She opened it to meet the tear filled eyes of Applejack. Rarity's eyes widened in shock for a moment, but then fell slightly as if she was afraid of something. Applejack just looked at her and a smile, sad smile came to her face. Almost immediately, tears flowed profusely from Rarity's eyes and she went forward and applejack caught her in an embrace.

Rarity sobbed in her friend's shoulder as she squeaked relatedly. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry…''

Applejack just smiled, tears streaming down her face as she rubbed Rarity's back. "I can't forgive you Rarity. How can I…when I never blamed you from the start?''

At this Rarity said noting and continued to cry into her friend as Applejack consoled her, feeling the pain in her heart beginning to ease a little for the first time in years. Quentin laid back in his bed, he covered his face with his hooves as thoughts rushed through his mind.

"I'm a human...she's a pony. I'm a human...she's a pony,'' the phrase repeated again and again in his head. But their conversation, the hug they shared, the nuzzle she gave him…he couldn't get them out of his head. No matter how much he tried, they would come back even strong as well as that warm sensation he felt when Applejack had embraced him

"Then, why do I feel this way? Why can't I stop thinking about her?'' Quentin asked himself, the image of Applejack never leaving his mind.