Washington woke up around 8, which is late around the Apple farmstead. He signed and groaned getting himself up to a sitting position to wait for the room to stop spinning for him. “She going to chew me out for this.” he thought. Soon he put on his arm and walked out of his room. He drank a few mouthfuls of water, then went straight out searching for Applejack. All he did was listen to the sound of her hoofs hitting the trees.
“Morning Applejack. Whats on the to do list for me today?” Washington asked when he found her.
“Morning Wash. Had a nice night last night?” Applejack said.
“Had a great night last night, thank you. Did you? I didn’t see ya until I check the bedrooms.” Wash said, giving a slight stretch of his back.
“Had to if we wanted to get up early. Why didn’t you?” She asked, then kicking a tree to drop loose branches.
“Why cousin, it would be rude to leave a party in my honor early.” Washington said in a sincere voice, but with a half grin.
“Hmm. Well anyway, your first task is to fix the tractor in the garage. Put some of that smarts of yours to work. And I reckon that you should get it done soon. Mac is taking Applebloom up to school for some weird school thing and will be back afterward.” Applejack ordered.
“Sure thing. Could you tell me whats wrong with the tractor though?” Washington asked.
“Everything is. Wheels won't spin. Plow won't turn. Heck, the shader won't even extend.” Applejack said frustrated, kicking a tree and leaving a hoof print.
“Alright. I'll grab my tools and get to work.” Washington said, ignoring the awning being called a “shader”.
He went back to his room and then to the garage. He pulled the tractor into the sunlight. “She wasn't kidding.” He thought. The wheels were jammed tight. Washington then tested the plow, finding that would need his help also.
The nuts holding the wheels on where either rusted tight on or were put on extra tight from Macintosh. He eventuality had to jump on a wrench, which was hooked on a ratchet that was on a nut just to get the nut loose. Washington did for each nut, sometimes jumping off the tractor onto the wrench to get it loose. He finally put the tractor on blocks and took the wheels off to see inside the wheel. He found the ball barrings shot and rusted together. Washington grabbed his hammer and punch to break off one of the barrings. It was covered in lubricant of some sort, but not the usual oil. He took off a few more and wrapped them in cloth, setting that a side.
“Next part, the plow.” he thought. First the plow wouldn’t lower, though that was an easy fix. A small rock had popped up under the gear slot some how. But like Applejack said, the plow wouldn’t swivel to turn. He looked at the hitch finding it was a safety hitch. Each time the plow would go into the earth, a spring would take the tension, but if the plow caught onto something that it just would not plow, such as a thick root or a large rock, the spring would go all the way back, releasing the plow from the hitch. It was meant for protecting the driver and the plow from damage. Washington found both the latch welded and the swivel pin rusted though to the plow, jamming it. Washington sighed and pounded the pin out, finding what looked like the same lubricant as from the ball barrings.
“What did they do to this thing?” He wondered.
It was then, Applejack came to the garage, with a load of dead branches, to check out Washington's handy work.
“How's it going?” she asked, taking off her hat to let her head cool off.
“She's going to need some new parts. The ball barrings need to be replaced. What did you guys lube them with?” Washington asked.
“We got cleaver and lubed them with vegetable oil. Cheapest we could find at the time.” Applejack said.
“I would suggest that you never use vegetable oil on any machine, ever again. It decays quickly and does not prevent rust. I'm also guessing you tried to fix the plow yourselves also.” Washington asked.
Applejack, looking slightly guilty, said “Uh, yeah. What did we do wrong with that?”.
“You welded the safety latch so it wouldn’t release.” Washington said in a deadpan tone.
“Well it kept releasing.” replied Applejack, defending herself.
Washington took a deep breath and released it slowly. “And you also coated the hitch pin with the oil also?”.
“..Maybe.” she said sheepishly
“Well, I'm going to need to get new parts for it. Does that hardware store here have tractor parts?” Washington asked.
“We can order it next day if you hurry soon. The parts come from the mills in Filly.” Applejack said.
“Ah, well I guess I better head into town then. Need anything?” Wash asked, grabbing the ball barrings in the cloth.
“Nope. But be back soon. Just because you cant work on the tractor today doesn’t mean your off the hook for work.” said Applejack.
“Very well. I'll be back soon. “ said Washington. He went to his room and grabbed his duster and went onwards into town.
The hardware store owner was helpful. Thankfully the train was running late and he was able to put letter on the train before it left town. Which reminded Washington, he had to send those letters to his family. He bought some grease, oil, and rust remover and then walked back to Sweet Apple Acres going back to work as soon as he arrived.
Applejack soon came by with another load of dead branches. “Why ain’t you in the fields yet? And what in the tarnation is all this stuff?” she asked, looking at the supplies that he bought.
“I still got work to do on the tractor. The ball barrings are still in there. And I do need to take off that safety latch. In fact, I haven’t even got to the awning yet.” Washington said, turning away form his work. “And that stuff there is not only going to make your tractor work, but will make it work well.”.
“Well, it's lunch time soon. After your done, you can eat.” She said, dumping the branches at the side of the garage then returning back into the orchard.
Washington felt his stomach rumble. “Fine.” he said, returning back to his work.
It wasn’t long before he got the rest of the barrings out. The safety latch was just attached by 3 screws, which did not rust much. The awning's problem was that the holding latch was just a bit rusty and embedded in the wood stands. He then sprayed the rust remover on to the rusty parts and let it sit. Washington then washed up and headed inside. Granny was in the kitchen, making lunch.
“Good day, Granny.” Washington said, with is face lighting up.
She turned around with a smile but then looked away. “Good day, Wash.”.
Washington thought about it for a second then realized he wasn’t wearing his duster. He walked outside and came back in, putting it on and closing the first few top buttons. “This better?” he asked.
Granny looked behind and smiled. “Much.”.
Washington went upstairs to his room and gathered his letters. He started down stairs but remembered the souvenirs he brought also, grabbing the bag. He set the things down in the living room. “Hey Granny, need help with lunch?” he offered.
“I'm good dear. But you can collect AJ for lunch.” Granny suggested.
“Will do.” Washington replied. He walked out into the orchards, trying to find Applejack. It took him a bit, but he found her after a bit of time.
Applejack spotted him first. “What are you doing out here?” She asked.
“Collecting you for lunch again. It smells good today.” Washington replied.
“Well, help me with the cart then. Faster this gets back to the farm, the faster we can eat.” Applejack said, nodding her head to the back of the loaded cart.
Washington got behind and said “On your go.”.
“Well go!” Applejack shouted, tugging the cart. It was hard start. The area they were in had some flooding, making the ground soft and muddy. But it wasn’t long before they had a good speed going and was only a bit longer until they reached the farm and unloaded the wet sticks.
“I need to secure the arm more. It slipped out at the beginning.” Washington said, readjusting his arm back in position.
“Better if you want to work here.” Applejack said, walking back to the house. Washington followed. Macintosh was sitting at the table, waiting for them when they arrived.
“Hey Mac. Had a nice day at school?” Washington asked.
Macintosh rolled his eyes. Granny set down plates with greens with daises in front of everyone.
“Well good news is that I can get that tractor working by tomorrow. Bad news is that we will have to work now.” Washington said, taking a bite of his food.
“Well that's great! Ain't it brother?” Applejack said.
Macintosh had a mouth full of food when she asked. He took a hard swallow and said “Eyep.” then taking another mouth full of greens.
“Anything else I need to fix around here?” Washington then asked.
“Nothing that we can't fix.” Applejack said. They ate the rest of the lunch in semi silence, making small talk during the meal.
It was towards the end of the mean when Washington announced “Hey guys...before I forget, I brought souvenirs back.”. He got up and grabbed his bag from the living room and started rummaging around in it. “For you Mac, I got ya this totem. It's a symbol of strength and kindness in Limponeia.”.
Macintosh started to examining it. It was a totem of a lion priding it's self on a heart.
“Er..Do you like it?” asked Washington. While Washington wasn’t the best shopper, it is hard to shop for someone reserved as Macintosh.
Macintosh looked at it a second more before smiling and saying “Eyep.”.
“He he. Glad you do. Applejack, I got you this necklace.” Washington said, handing her the necklace. The necklace had a pendant of the sun, with a heart in the middle of the sun and a moon under the sun. The sun was attached to what kinda looked like a odd looking chain with 2 pieces of string of thick, tan string on each end.
“I like it. What do each of this symbols mean?” Applejack asked.
“The sun stands for “Guardian of the Heavens”, the heart means fatefulness, the moon means Harmony, and the chains mean loyalty.” Washington explained. “Now Granny. I giving you this Limponeia chieftain covering blanket.” He then said pulling out a very colorful blanket. “It's only meant for the matriarch of the family. it's from the ponies that I helped. They gave me this as a reward.”
“Why Washington, it's beautiful. What did ya do there anyway?” Granny Smith said, warping the blanket around herself.
“I gave them one of my designs. Many of them living there are using it. At least they were before I left.” Washington explained.
“Which design did ya give them?” Applejack asked.
Washington smiled and pointed to his arm and said “This one. Which reminds me, do you mind if I take the rest of the day off? I want to improve said design more since I'm going to be working on the farm. Slips out when pushing heavy loads.”.
Applejack thought for a second, finally saying “Well... alright. You'd better be ready tomorrow though.”
Washington nodded and said. “Thank you kindly.”.
They finished lunch and everyone went back to work, excluding Washington.
The first thing he did was send off his package to his mother and sister, Molly Delicious and Paula Red. He walked around town for a bit after, thinking how he could improve his arm. He placed his head against a wall and pushed it, to no avail of course. He was trying to see how his arm reacted to heavy pushing and pulling. Washington did this several more times in several different ways. His arm just felt off each time he did and one time did slip out. After thinking on it for a while, he decided to go to the library, to do research.
As he walked down the road to get there, he spotted Fluttershy at the fountain by the town all. He blushed and just kept walking.
When Washington did walk into the library, no one was at the front desk. “Hello?” He shouted softly. No one answered. He decided to look around. Washington was looking for a certain book called “Gats The Iron Hoof.”. It was Gats' design that allowed him to make his design. He looked though fiction, medical, and history. But could not find anything. It was then though that Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Spike and Fluttershy came into the library.
“Oh! Hello. Can I help you Washington?” Twilight asked.
“Why yes. I'm looking for a book called “Gats The Iron Hoof”. There several kinds but I can't find any of them. Oh, and you can just call me Wash if ya want.” Washington explained.
“Hmm... It could be in the basement. Let me check.” said Twilight, as she walked into the basement.
The 4 just looked at each other for a second when Washington asked “So, what have you guys been up too?”.
“We were just to head out to the park for a picnic. Would you like to come?” Fluttershy asked.
“I'm terribly sorry, but I can'. I'm fixing somethings at the farm and I'm just running some errands while waiting for something at the farm to finish. But I would honored if you ask me next time.” Washington said with a smile.
“Are ya sure? It'll be fun.” asked Spike.
“I'm sorry, I just can't today.” said Washington.
“I found it!” Twilight said, marching up the stairs.
“Ah good, lets see.” Washington said, grabbing the book and placing the book on the near by table. He read for a second before he left and went to the medical section again.
“Who is this guy anyway, I haven’t heard his name before.” Twilight asked Washington as he searched.
“Gats The Iron Hoof is a story character about a warrior with a prosthetic arm, replacing the one he lost in battle. But what most ponies don't know is that he was real.” said Washington who took out another book from the shelf and set it on the table.
“So... Why are you interested in this guy?” asked Rainbow Dash, who was paging though the first book.
“Well I based my arm loosely around his designs. I didn’t have access to any books at the time so I had to make stuff up as I went along.” said Washington as he returned to the medical shelf again. “You don’t mine if I leave these out for references, do you?” he then asked.
“Not at all. What do you mean by your arm though?” asked Spike.
“Oh, you don't know? I could have sworn I showed you at the party last night. Oh well. Here it is.” said Washington who turned around and pulled up his right sleeve. “Made of apple wood of course.” Washington said, chuckling as he turned around.
“Ah.. I can't look at that again.” said Rainbow Dash, turning away. Then realizing what she said. “I'm so sorry about that! I didn't mean that!” she then said apolitically.
“Squeamish are we? Don't worry. I don't take any offense. Heck, that part of the reason I have my duster here... Ah, here we go now.” said Washington, who took a book off the shelf and again placed it on the table.
“How did that happened if you don't mine me asking.” asked Twilight as she started to put away his books.
“Oh, The best way to say it is that I gave it up for something good. The good thing about that is there is more good coming out of it. Do you mine if I check out this book here.” Washington asked.
“Sure. Just let me write down this title here and.... your all set.” Twilight said.
“Thank you kindly for your help. I'm afraid I have to go now though. Have fun on your picnic.” Washington said, suddenly hurrying out of the library.
“I wonder what that was about.” Twilight said. Placing the checkout slip in a folder.
“Washington said he was working on something at the farm. Maybe he just needed to get back.” said Fluttershy.
“Probley that. Applejack can work a pony to the bone. Anyway, we should get going or else the food will get cold.” suggested Spike.
Washington went straight back to the farm and started reading the book, studying and examining each design. He also wrote down notes and sketches as he went along. What only felt like a few minutes to him, turned into a hour and a half. He walked out of the garage to grab a drink of water when he noticed the time from the clock tower.
“3:30? I better start working again.” he muttered to himself.
Washington grabbed a cloth and wiped down the rust from the tractor. He thought for a second but decided to grease and oil the tractor when the parts come. He cleaned up and went back to work on his arm. He went over to the pile of branches and pulled a quite a few out, leaning them against the outside barn wall to dry. Washington needed them for new spares and prototypes. He then went into his room and rummaged though his bags, pulling out a very long strand of leather, bringing it back down to the garage. Trying his best, he wrapped the leather around him like a scarf. It was then he heard “What is this wood doing on the barn?”. He poked his head out and saw Macintosh and Applejack coming towards him.
“Don't touch it. I'm going to use it for spares.” Washington explained.
“Spare what?” Macintosh asked.
“Spare arms. I like using apple wood compared to other wood.”
“But why is it on the barn?” Applejack asked.
“Oh. it's drying. We had rain just a few days ago and I need it dry.” Washington then explained.
“Can't ya dry it else where? It's making the place look... weird.” Applejack said, annoyed.
Washington thought for a second. “Well, if it's dry and sunny for the next couple days or so, I can stash the wood in the orchard. Would that work for ya?”.
“It will for now. Asked me next time.” Applejack said walking away.
Macintosh looked a Washington and asked “What's that all about?”.
“She's just adjusting. We all are. She has anger towards me for letting the family worry and for me not talking like she wants me to. Also I think another part of it is the spring time prep here. I'm sorry for bring this upon to not only her but to you guys as well. I just hope she understands that this isn't for me, but for Paula.” Washington explained, leaning against the wall of the garage.
“She understands that much. I think the reason she's so mad because that's as much as you will let her know. We were always so open before your trip, talkin about every little thing. Now you won't even tell her the reasons ofyour actions. Your just telling her to accept it.” said Macintosh, leaning on the opposite side.
“I know I am. And I feel guilty too. I hope she understands...” said Washington. He paused for a second and thought. “Maybe I can speak more about the subject.”.
“Can or will? I don't think maybe is good enough.” Macintosh asked.
“I need to think more about it, but probably will. There are reasons I can't say certain things.” Washington replied.
“What reasons?” Macintosh then asked.
“Promises. Protection. If certain words are said to the wrong ponies, then certain ponies will get the wrong idea. What I'm doing must remain secrete and be kept in the right hoofs. I'd like to think the right hoofs are us.” Washington explained.
“Hmm, well I can only think of a few other ponies, more good than you.” Macintosh said, shifting his weight slightly.
“Well, if I need help, I'll go to them first if they are not in the family. I'm already getting enough help from you.” Washington then said.
“Don't be too quick to count out family. You may ask for an apple but we can give you an orchard for free if your willing to ask.” Macintosh said.
“I know... I may want an orchard but I don't want to just be given to me from family.” Washington replied. Macintosh nodded and walked away.
Washington thought and rested a bit more before taking the leather strip off and started to move the branches to the orchard. He tried to keep the branches out of sight but still in the sun. He went back to the garage and grabbed the leather strip then walked back into town. Washington first decided to go to Rarity's shop but it was closed. He walked around town for a bit more, then decided to visit one of his oldest friends.
He started his way back to the stream where he hung out yesterday.He stopped for a bit and hung around the water, listening to run thought the reeds and grass. He spotted Fluttershy coming out of her house and tending to her animals. Washington thought for a second and took a deep breath. He walked over and she spotted him. He took a hard gulp when he shouted “Hey Ms. Fluttershy.”.
Fluttershy shouted back “Hello Washington. What are you doing here?”.
“I got done with the farm and needed to run some more errons. Unfortunately, I can't due to Rarity not being in her shop. So I decided to visit some old friends in the woods instead. How was the picnic?” Washington asked.
“The picnic was lovely. Rarity usual goes jewel hunting in the mountains around this time of the week with Spike. But you have old friends in the woods?” Fluttershy asked, tilting her head slightly.
“Yeah. Care to join me? I do have to warn you that they might be a bit... wild.” Washington commented.
“Oh.. Well I guess that okay. I tend to wild animals all the time.” Fluttershy replied.
“Great! Lets go.” Washington said. He then howled loudly. He stopped for a second and listened. They heard a howl back, though it was faint. Washington now knew the general direction to walk.
“What was that?” Fluttershy asked as she followed Washington.
“I guess I should tell you. My friends are timber wolfs.” He replied.
Fluttershy stopped in her tracks. “Timber wolfs? I thought they are dangerous and can't be tamed.”.
“I don't tame them. I befriend them. If I were to tame them, I would have a pet. Not a friend.” Washington said, restarting his walk.
“Are you sure?” Fluttershy still asked nervously.
Washington turned around. He gave her a gentle smile and said “I would never try to put a pony in danger. This means you. If you are still unsure, you don't have to come along. I wont be offended. These wolfs are some of my oldest friends. I'm sure they still trust me.”.
“Well.... if your sure..” Fluttershy nervously said.
“I am sure. Now come on. We don't have much day light left.” said Washington, who was already turned around and was starting on his way.
Fluttershy followed closely. It was about half an hour in when Washington howled again. The howl back was much louder and closer than before.
“Won't be long now.” Washington said, hopping over a small log.
They walked another 5 minutes before they met the wolves at their den. All were awake and awaiting them. “Hey guys!” Washington said, walking towards them slowly. But then he stopped. A another wolf came out of the den. It was larger than the rest and starting to sniff him right away. Fluttershy had hanged back and was contemplating on hiding in a tree.
“Sasha?” Washington said in disbelieve. The large wolf started to wag it's tail and whimpered. “Sasha! It is you!” he said wrapping his arms around the wolf. Sasha cried and collapsed on Washington.
It was then, Washington noticed her stomach. “Are...? Your pregnant!” He then called out. “Fluttershy, can you believe it? My little Sasha is all grown up and having her own pups now. Er.. Fluttershy.”. Washington looked back and saw Fluttershy was up in a tree. Fluttershy blushed.
“It's alright Fluttershy. This is Sasha. I found her when she was a pup when I first started spending my summers here with my cousins. She was abandoned so I took care of her, even when everyone tried to stop me. Now I don't even think anypony even remembers.” explained Washington.
Fluttershy slowly floated down from the tree. Washington took Sasha over to meet her. “Now Sasha. I hope you accept her like you accept me.” asked Washington. Sasha looked at Washington, who nodded, then looked back at Fluttershy. She sniffed her, then rested her head on her leg, wagging her tail, giving her the puppy dog eyes.
“How could I be afraid of something so nice and cute.” Fluttershy said, scratching her behind the ears. Sasha collapsed like she did with Washington.
“Now, why are you guys so calm?” Washington asked, turning to the rest of the pack. The pack in turn rushed over to Washington, crying tears of joy, and trying to lick him. “Ah! NO licky!” he shouted back, with little use. After the wolfs had settle down, Sasha laid down next to Washington, resting her head on his lap, with him genitally scratching her behind her ears. Washington looked over to Fluttershy who was playing with the pups. He smiled and went back to resting with Sasha.
“I think I will build you a shed.” said Washington out of the blue, causing Sasha and Fluttershy to divert their attention. “If you are going to have pups, I think you need a quiet place for them.” he said looking at Sasha. She wagged her tail in return. “What do you think of over there, Fluttershy?” Washington then asked, pointing to his left, where they had come in. “That hill and the trees will provide the most cover.”.
“Oh yes! It looks very nice.” Fluttershy said in agreement.
“It's settled then. I will build you a shed. The next time I come along.” Washington said.
“Speaking of next time. I think we should get going.” Fluttershy added.
Washington looked up at the sun. “Yes, unfortunately it is.” he said, sliding slowly from under Sasha's head, laying it down. “I'm not only glad I came here,I'm glad I brought someone else.” he then said, getting up.
Sasha whimpered when Washington stood up. He bent back down and stroked her head. “Don't worry. I'll be back. I always will.” he said to her, quieting her whimpers.
Washington and the wolfs howled together before they left. “I think they accepted you.” He commented when he and Fluttershy were on their way.
“Do you mind if I visit them?” Fluttershy asked.
“Of course I mind. They loved ya. The wolves and I would be sad if you didn’t.” Washington joked.
“Why would you get sad?” Fluttershy asked confused.
Washington was caught off guard, but he quickly said “If my friends are sad, it makes me sad.”, then he gave a kinda cheesy smiled.
Fluttershy smiled back, approving of his answer. They walked back to Fluttershy's cottage and stopped at the bottom of her front steps.
“Well it was great spending time with you. We should do this again some time.” said Washington.
“I would love to!” replied Fluttershy.
“Well, I have to go see Rarity now.” said Washington.
“Why do you need to see Rarity?” Fluttershy asked.
“Oh, I need her to sew something for me.” he explained.
“I can do it. Rarity usually hates being disturbed after her digs.” Fluttershy offered.
“Well that's very nice of you but... um... it involves my arm.” Washington said, kinda embarrassed.
“I don't mind your arm. And I been sewing since I have been a little filly.” Fluttershy explained.
Washington's heart pounded and he took a hard swallow. “I do suppose it would be rude to Rarity to disturb her right now.” he reluctantly said. He followed Fluttershy into her home.
“Now wait right here and I'll grab my kit.” she said, walking up stairs. Washington took off his saddle bags and pulled out the strip of leather. He took off his duster and sat on her couch. She came back down stairs with a tackle box.
“That's leather, right?” she asked him, pointing at the strip and fumbling around in her sewing kit.
“Yep.” he replied. It was then Angle hopped into the room. “Hello Angle.” He then said. Angle looked at him and hopped away.
“Now, what do you need sewn?” Fluttershy asked.
“Well...” Washington said getting up. “I need a strip of leather to go from here to here but under my head and neck.” he said, pointing to his right shoulder, then to his left. His prosthetic was attached with a harness, but his left arm only hosted a collard with a single strip of leather to it that wrapped behind his head.
“But I need it taught so when I push or pull something, my arm doesn't slip off.” he then added.
“That's not a problem.” Fluttershy replied, taking out a measuring tape. She put the one end of the tape on his shoulder and stretched it under his head to the other shoulder.
Washington's heart pounded. He wanted it to end while never wanting it to stop.
“31 inches?” Fluttershy said while marking the spots on the arm and left collar.
“I do have a bit of a boney chest.” he commented.
“Ah, well I hope this doesn’t chaff you then.” she said concerned.
“Well if it does, I'll just put a rag or cushion there.” Washington said. “I suppose you'll be needed this,” he said, handing her the leather, “ and this.”he then said, taking off his arm.
Fluttershy smiled and went to work sewing.
“Thank you very much for doing this by the way.” Washington said, sitting on the couch.
“Oh, it no problem at all. I love to sew but I don't get to very often.” Fluttershy said, not looking up from her work.
“Well I'm glad I can bring you some joy then.” he then said, smiling. He felt a tap on is leg and looked down. There he found Angle, holding up a carrot. “That's very kind of you also, Angle.”. He took the carrot and broke it in half, handing the larger half back to Angle. Angle took it and smiled.
Fluttershy looked up when she heard Angle's name again. She smiled at the two, then went back to finishing the last of the stitches. “Here we go.” she said, holding up the arm.
Washington swallowed a mouth full of half chewed carrot and said “Oh good. Lets try this out.”. Fluttershy handed him his arm and he in turn, put it on
“Nice! Now to see if the strip of leather works.” he said, stretching. He sent out side and walked to the forest, with angle and Fluttershy in tow. He put his head up to a tree and pushed for a good minute.
“Hmm... good. No slipping.” he said, looking down at his arm. He turn to Fluttershy and Angle saying “Again, I can't thank you enough for this! I can do more work on the farm and.. just thanks!” he said gracefully. He looked up and noticed the moon was out. “Oh crud...” he muttered.
“It was our pleasure.” Fluttershy said.
“I...I don't mean to be rude but I gotta go. I just noticed the time.” Washington said, walking to the house.
“Oh my. It is late.” Fluttershy said, walking behind him.
“Sorry about me leaving late again.” he said, putting on his duster. He turned to Angle. “Goodbye Angle.”. Then turned to Fluttershy, “Goodbye Ms. Fluttershy. It was my pleasure spending time with you.”.
“Goodbye Wash. The pleasure was mine.” She replied.
Washington smiled and nodded. He put on his bags and left with out saying anything else. The galloped the rest of the way home, smiling.
“Where were you!” Applejack said as he arrived.
“Sorry. I needed someone who can work with leather to make me in working order but Rarity was out so I spent most of the time looking for someone else. Good news is that I found them.” Washington replied, taking his saddlebags off at the door.
“Oh yeah? Who?” she questioned.
“Fluttershy. She can sew pretty well.” he said, showing the new strip of leather on his chest.
“Good. You better be ready to work tomorrow then.” Applejack said, returning inside and stomping up the stairs.
Washington sighed and walked into the kitchen. Applebloom was sitting at the table, doing her homework. He sat down across from her, where a plate of food sat.
“Hey Applebloom. Had a nice day at school?” he asked.
“Yep! It was brother day! Big Mac as there and we had lunch together. It was awesome!” she said, looking up from her work.
Washington smiled. “I'm glad you liked it.”. He took a few bites of food and asked “Need help?”.
“No, I got this.” she said. Washington shrugged and continued his meal.
He finished his meal and rested at the table for a second before thinking “I should do this now.”. He went into the living room where everyone but Applejack was at. “Don't move.” he said pointing at them, then walking up stairs. He knocked on Applejack's door.
“What is it?” said Applejack thought the door.
“It's Washington. I want to invite you to ask me questions down stairs about... well the recent events.” he replied.
“What more is there to say? You won't talk.” said Applejack.
Washington sighed and said “Very well. If you don't want to join us downstairs, I won't hold it against ya.”. He walked back down stairs after that and sat in the living room with the rest of the family.
“What's going on?” Granny Smith asked.
“I was talking to Macintosh earlier, and I have to agree with him. There is more that can be said of what has happened in the last few days. Or years I should say. So I am inviting all questions. I will try to answer them as best and able as I can.” He announced.
The others just looked blankly until Applebloom asked “How was your trip?”.
“It was lovely. I hope I can go back there one day. The people there were so kind and nice, it broke my heart to leave.” he replied.
“Did you meet a lot of nice ponies there?” Applebloom then asked.
“Oh yeah. I lived with a family shortly after I arrived. Every day, one of them tried to show me the sites and villages all around Limponeia. I stopped living with them about a month when I thought it was time move on though Limponeia.” said Washington, with a sad smile on his face.
“Okay! Enough!” shouted Applejack who quickly stomped down stairs.
Washington turned his head and said “Thank you for joining us.”.
“Ha ha! Very funny! Why won't you tell us how you lost your arm? And don't say “I sacrificed it!”. We want to know the reason you won't tell us!” Applejack shouted.
“The reason I won't tell you is because I can't. I promised I wouldn’t when I lost the arm and I always keep my promises.” Washington replied.
“Who did you promised?” Applejack demanded.
“I promised I would not say that either. I made a lot of promises that day. Promises I intend to keep unless something dangerous happens.” Washington explained.
“What kind of danger?” Granny Smith asked.
“The bad kind.” he replied.
“So what your tell us is the only way you'll give this up is if we were in danger of something? Are we?” Macintosh asked.
“Of course not! I would never put my family in a situation where I would not put my self.” said Washington. Everyone stared for a few seconds before Washington added “I should say “Let me rephrase that.” but I won't.”.
Applejack sighed and face-hoofed. “So...Why don't you want your family involved?” she asked.
“My family is involved.” he replied.
“NO! Your mother and sister! Why not them?” she demanded.
Washington sighed and responded “Because I could not do it with them involved. My mother.. sorry you have to hear this, Granny, is controlling to a suffocating point. It's part of the reason I accepted the trip in the first place. Heck, the reason I left for collage instead of learning there is so I can be myself.”. He sat down, leaning against the wall. “She wanted me give her the trip. She even tried to sell the trip from under me. But I had the last laugh when I left. Has she told you what I did?” he asked.
Everyone was silent.
“I take that as a no. She tried to scalp the tickets. At least mother thought she did. I hid the real ones and printed forgeries. On the day of departure, I sold all my things and took the money to Limponeia with me when she left with the fakes.” Washington said with a smile.
“Do you know how hard your mother worked to put you though college? To raise you? What is wrong with you?” Granny smith shouted.
“I supported myself in college. I held down 2 jobs in college, paying for it. The only reason it was 2 instead of the usual 3 jobs is because the college forbid it. Heck, I supported my self though childhood. Working in the fields in the fall for harvest. In the copper mines during winter. Working here and at Sugarcube corner during the summer, when it was too hot to work or grow anything back home. Any money she raised went to Paula or to herself. Maybe some money went to me if I snuck it past her after I got pay from my bosses...she changed after father passed.” said Washington, holding back many tears. “The reason I'm doing this is so Paula can go her own way too. In her condition, she can't. And I guess... so I can go my own way.”.
Everyone was quiet from then on for a bit.
“Why didn't you tell any of us? We would have helped!” Granny Smith asked.
“The words were there. The ears were not.” Washington replied with the feeling of tears starting to fade. “I think now is a good time for a break, don't you?”.
Washington walked outside to the back porch. The breathed the cool night air. Applejack walked out to join him.
“Hey.” she said.
“Hey back.” he replied. “Am I answering everyone's questions to their standards?” he then asked.
“Yeah.” Applejack said, with a slightly guilty tone.
“Ah, well I hope the rest are easy to answer then. This Q&A is really taking a dark tone.” He replied with a smile.
She chuckled and said “you can say that again. When are you coming back in?”.
“In a few. I wanna checkout the stars and moon. I heard that nightmare has had a change of heart.” Washington said.
“You can thank me and my friends for that.” Applejack said, heading back inside.
Washington stared absented mindfully into the moon for a few seconds before he replied with “Wait...What?”. Applejack was gone by then. He looked up to the sky for a minute more before coming back inside.
“Ready?” Applejack asked as he entered.
“Ready. Whats the next question?” Washington asked.
“Why did you take this route?” Macintosh asked.
“What do you mean?” said Washington.
“I mean your trying to help Paula...Why do it this way? You could have worked and send money directly to Paula. You could have taken Paula with you. Why this way?” Macintosh asked.
“This “opportunity” was a once in a life time, only for this moment, thing. I have see so many opportunities wasted in so many ways. At the time it was now or never. And I guess if I failed, some good can still come of it. I mean, I made a new leg design that has already helped many others.” Washing answered.
“So you did it because it was now or never? How so?” Macintosh pressed.
“Because I had to make the choice then. It was... oh wait. Never mind.” said Washington, trailing off.
“What?” Applejack asked.
“Never mind. I can't talk about that. Promises.” Washington replied.
They all sighed in annoyance of Washington’s answer.
“I should say it's not like I don't want to tell you. I can't tell you.” said Washington.
“We know. We know. I have one last question. What's next?” Applejack asked.
“I would like to say I know, but I can't.” Washington said with a smile.
Applejack grunted. “Because of your Promises?”.
“Because if I knew, I would be doing it.” said Washington.
Applejack face-hoofed. “You would betray your mother, sail across the world, mutilate yourself, come back to us, and not know what to do next?”.
Washington shrugged, “Well yeah. It's for a good cause.” he said innocently with a smile.
“I...You...I got nothin. Your just unexplainable. No more question from me, I give up. You guys?” Applejack asked turning to the rest.
Everyone uneasily shook their head's no.
“I guess were are done then. If you have anymore questions, please ask. It is how knowledge is created. Oh and I almost forgot. Applebloom, souvenir.” Washington said, digging though is bag.
He pulled out a zebra doll that was holding a net and torch while wearing a tribal mask. “If I remember the pronunciation correctly, it's called a nota vodie or a dream fisher. It lures dreams using the torch and scares the bad dreams away with the mask. Oh and it catches the good dreams for you. I hope it works for ya.”.
Applebloom examined it for a second until Washington said “It's not a kind of doll you play with. You just keep it by your bed side.”.
“It's neat. I like it. Thanks.” Applebloom said still examining it.
“I'm glad you like it.” Washington said, walking upstairs. He went to his room and just laid down staring at the ceiling for a while. He though his thoughts. He didn’t think about his past decisions, but his future plans. He needed a new way to gain information. He lost this advantage when he made the deal with those who took his arm and mark. Washington thought and thought. “Maybe Zecora or Twilight will have such info but it's a long shot.”. But every now and again Fluttershy entered into his head. He tried to push her out but to no avail. He stood up and pulled his journal from under his bed and sat at the window.
The only thing he wrote was “It's happening again. Why is it happening again? I can't have this happen now... I hope the feeling comes back soon...”.
