The horror on Applejack's face became more and more pronounced with every word. Even in their darkest times, the people of Ponyville always believed in friendship, right? Though they fought, though they struggled, they would certainly never do anything so cruel.

And so the second Mindy finished her sad tale, Applejack very carefully tucked her muzzle against Mindy's shoulder, doing her best to provide comfort without hurting her more. It was a struggle not to cry.

"...how...how could they treat other beings that way?"