//------------------------------// // Chapter 12: Made in Manehattan // Story: Light and Dark: Road to Redemption // by MXCDarkHorse2020 //------------------------------// Chapter 12: Made in Manehattan: On a quiet day in her castle library, Twilight for once is not in a book-reading mood as she has formed a six-level pyramid of books and is currently sitting at a table where she has two six-book stacks beside her she pulls a gray book from one of her shelves hoping for something interesting but sighs since she already read that and blows a raspberry at the book’s direction as she placed it on the book pile on her left. She then pulls a purple book from the stack on her right but like the last one she groans and stacks in on top of the pile as she places a hoof on her forehead. She sighs as she slightly spreads her wings as she had clearly managed to read every single book she has in the library. “I’m bored.” Twilight glumly expressed. “But you’re reading?” Spike questioned as he read his comic book. “I’ve read all these books already.” Twilight said as she spread her arms out in the air and placed her left hoof on her chin. “And…” Spike asked as he rolled his eyes unsympathetic to Twilight’s plight. “And I’m bored I want to do something.” Twilight answered as she slammed her hooves onto the table with her wing spreading out for a second again. “Things have been so slow around here and I just—“ Suddenly, Twilight is interrupted when she heard a voice call out to her. “Twilight! Twilight!” Rarity called out as she immediately flew and ran over to the castle throne room “Ooh, Twilight, darling! Oh, thank goodness! It seems that my—“ At that moment Applejack came running in the throne room as he finally stopped to allow herself to catch her breath and wipe away the sweat from her forehead. “Whew! Got here as fast I—“ Applejack said before being interrupted by Twilight who takes notice of Applejack and Rarity’s glowing cutie marks. “Please tell me my cutie mark is glowing too.” Twilight pleaded her friends as she looks at her cutie mark. “Sorry, Twilight.” Spike regretfully pointed out as he shook his head that her cutie mark isn’t glowing. Twilight groans in disappointment and boredom at being excluded from another friendship mission…again. “Where do you think—“ Applejack asked before being cut off by an excited Rarity as the cutie mark images float up and down towards an area the Rarity recognizes. “Manehattan! We've been called to Manehattan! Oh, I've simply been dying to go back for a visit! And now I return... with a purpose!” “Hmmm.” Twilight said as she examined the map. “It looks like you've been summoned to this particular neighborhood here.“ “We're off to solve a friendship problem in one of the busiest and most vibrant cities in all of Equestria!” Rarity excitedably wrapped a hoof around Applejack nearly strangling her in her hold. “Isn't this exciting?!” She asked with another squeal as she got right in her face practically begging and insisting this is something worth seeing. “Seems a hair odd, though, don't it? Map callin' me to a big city like Manehattan?” Applejack noted while gently getting Rarity out of her personal space. “You may be more of a country pony at heart, Applejack, but the map picked you two because you're the best ponies to tackle this particular mission.” Twilight encouragingly told her. “But how will we even know what our mission's supposed to be? That neighborhood probably has twice as many ponies as all of Ponyville.” Applejack still couldn’t help but wonder with many questions in mind. “Pff. Kch. Ts!” Rarity blew a raspberry as this is no big deal. “More like three times! Why, it's not only home to the Haypacking District – it's also home to the Fashion District!” Rarity excitably said as Twilight frowns sadly at being left out at another friendship mission to which Rarity takes notice of. “Hmm. Shame you weren't called as well, though, darling. You did end up quite a fan of the hustle and bustle of Manehattan on our last visit even if it was under different circumstances.” She added with a giggle as Twilight slightly blushes since she had a different agenda while at Manehattan. “It's such an exciting city, and there's still so much I'd like to do there.” Twilight expressed her thoughts of Manehattan as she then spread her wings and flew up in the air. So many museums and historical landmarks to visit. Not to mention all the libraries!” She happily expressed her thoughts as she placed her hooves together. “But this is your mission. Heh-heh.” She said as she lowered herself to the ground. “Although, I would be very grateful if I could join you two on your trip and I promise I won’t interfere with your mission but will be around for advice if you need it.” She hinted at the two to allow her to tag along and promises she will be on her best behavior with an eager and pleading smile with buttoned up eyes. “Well…” Rarity started to speak as she finds herself overwhelming by Twilight’s adorableness like her younger sister pleading to spend time with her. “I suppose we could do that.” “Yes. Yes.Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.” Twilight happily and excitably bounced around the room “Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you Thank you. Thank you.” Next thing both Applejack and Rarity know they are both immediately tackled and hugged tightly by her. For them Twilight is very strong considering she has recently been doing a lot of workouts and that alicorns do have earth pony strength. “You’re welcome sugarcube.” Applejack responded with a supporting smile despite being nearly crushed by Twilight’s strength. “And I can’t think of any way to help you find something exciting to do.” “Mm-hmm.” Rarity said in agreement before gasping at something that had just popped up in her head. “I just remembered something! The Sisterhooves Social!” Applejack placed a hoof on her forehead seeing that this has come at a bad time for them. “We'll have to miss it.” Applejack sadly decided deeming this mission more important. “No tellin' how long we'll be in Manehattan. I sure hope Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle aren't too upset.” “Hopefully, they’ll at least come to understand when they see of how very important it is to help out on an important mission with regards from the Princess of Friendship.” Twilight said in a way “Probably a little. But will come around eventually at worst.” “True.” Applejack acknowledged with a nod. “Beats lying to her and getting her hopes up for nothing.” After packing their belongings of what they need and after Applejack and Rarity broke the bad news to their siblings, Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack all boarded the Friendship Express train to the Manehattan train station. When they all made it outside, Rarity wasted no time jumping onto and spinning around a lamppost, flipping her mane marveling at being back in the big city again. “Oh, Manehattan, what you do to me!” Applejack simply rolled her eyes while she carried the unicorn's big chest on her back annoyed at Rarity’s over-excitement as she wasn’t exactly in love with it as much Rarity. She always preferred the comfort of the country side but still accepted the necessity of coming here if the map calls upon it. “Such a huge bustling community And there's always opportunity To do the friendly thing.” Twilight sang in a sing-song tone part of Rarity’s song from the last time they were in Manehattan causing Rarity to laugh amused seeing that she is just as excited as Rarity to be here too. Rarity then saw Applejack who was looking anxious at the crowded roads in front of her and nervously gulped and discomfort. “Darling, are you all right?” Rarity asked the quivering farm pony. “Ponies move so fast here. Not at all like back home.“ Applejack honestly replied as he trotted forward towards the crosswalk still having not yet adjusted to the big city. “Eyes peeled, ears open. Eyes peeled, ears open." She said to herself as she absent-mindlessly walked in between a couple waiting to cross. A police officer blew his whistle signaling ponies to cross. Applejack found herself immediately left behind an unable to move or cross the streets because of the Manehattan ponies walking at faster pace than what she is used to. “Remember, Applejack, you're in the big city now. No moseying. You've gotta walk with speed and confidence!” Rarity told her as she and Twilight walked up to her for assistance. The police officer blew his whistle again signaling another opportunity for ponies cross. Rarity started off by crossing the street easily and smoothly bypassing the incoming ponies. Twilight took her turn as she walked across effortlessly dodging incoming ponies in a little more zigzag pattern but made it across just as easily as Rarity. “Yoo-hoo!” Rarity called out to Applejack to come across. Applejack after snorted and taking a running stance runs out into the street only to accidentally and nearly run into a gray pony. “Move it!” The gray pony shouted. “Sorry 'bout that.” Applejack briefly turned back to apologize before continuing only to bump into another pony. “Ah, get outta my way!” A light blue pony with a red mane shouted “Sorry.” Applejack apologized again. “Watch it!” Two more ponies shouted as Applejack struggled to make it across. “Hey— Oh, dear.” Applejack apologized as she made her way across and landed on the ground in front of Twilight and Rarity. “Butter my biscuits.” She groaned to herself. “I can barely cross the street in this town. How am I supposed to help solve a—“ She complained before being interrupted by Rarity who gasps in shock at something. “There!” She exclaimed in shock at the sight of a light purple furred pony with a turnip cutie mark wearing a green hat. “Yes, I think this is the one.” The pony said ready to give the salespony a bit for it. “No! No.” Rarity immediately intervened slapped the bit away. “Excuse me?” The pony responded confused of what she is doing. “That hat clashes with your mane, not to mention it's far too large and will undoubtedly obstruct your vision.” Rarity kindly explained as she removed the hat as she examined the other hats on the stands. “Oh, dear, none of these will do. Oh, Applejack! What good timing!” She happily commented as she and Twilight caught up with her. Rarity opened her chest on Applejack’s back lifting the lid onto Applejack’s head much to her annoyance as Rarity hummed looking for the right hat for her. “Here. This will do splendidly.” Rarity said as she levitated a nicer looking and more fitting purple hat. “Oh, it's lovely! How much would you like for it?” The pony complimented as she very much agreed that this is much more fitting to her liking as she looked herself in the mirror provided by Rarity again. “Oh, no-no, please, please, keep it. I can always make another.” Rarity insisted it’s no big deal. “Thank you!” The mare happily thanked her as she trotted off ahead as Rarity watches on satisfied. “And you thought we wouldn't discover our purpose here!” Rarity told Applejack proudly. “Pff. Kch. Ts!” Applejack and Twilight were both not convinced even if it was a kind and generous gesture. “Yeah, I'm pretty sure that wasn't it.” Applejack commented unimpressed. “Unless you count stopping crimes against fashion as one.” Twilight dully and sarcastically commented just as unimpressed as Applejack. “What? We just saved that poor pony from committing a terrible crime of fashion.” Rarity responded in surprise and tried to smile as Applejack and Twilight both raise arched eyebrows not buying it. “Well, she could've been meeting a friend who would've laughed at her new hat, and then their friendship could've been ruined forever! And... mmm... it's possible.” “Did your cutie mark glow signifyin' a job well done?” Applejack dryly asked. “Ye— No. I suppose it didn't.” Rarity honestly answered as she looked at her flank. “Still, a disaster was averted!” “Averted? You just lost me a paying customer!” The salespony angrily retorted for causing him to lose a potential sale. “Oh, my! Oh, I-I-I-I-I'm s-so sorry. I never meant to—“ Rarity tried to apologize. “Beat it!” He yelled with a raised threatening hoof. Immediately, Twilight stood in between the two to protect Rarity with her horn glowing leaving the salespony intimidated by the princess. “We’re going. No need to threaten hoofs over one small sale.” Twilight firmly told the salespony to ease off her anger towards Rarity as Applejack drags her away with a forced smile. “Uh, please accept my sincerest apologies for the misunderstanding, and might I add, what a lovely establishment you have here!” Rarity apologized as she is being dragged away. “And if I were you I’d think twice over threatening other ponies going forward because if I get word ponies are hurt and feeling threatened because of you you’re going to have to answer to me. Understand?!” Twilight sternly warned the salespony against engaging in this behavior again in her ice-cold tone. The sales pony nodded yes as he retreated behind his stand as Twilight returned to join up with her friends as Applejack has released Rarity as they both walk together. “You're right, Applejack, Twilight.” Rarity cleared her throat and sighed seeing the problem still lies elsewhere. ”The search continues.” She said confidently as she trotted forward while Applejack expresses some uncertainty it will be easy. “Well, I think I’m going to go off and venture Manehattan on my own and get a look at those museums, landmarks, and libraries I’ve been waiting to see since we got here.” Twilight spoke up as she flew up into the air. “Feel free to call me if you need advice and don’t let me get in the way of your mission.” She called out to them as she flew off to sight see Manehattan. She would then fly off to where the town’s nearest library is. Once she got inside the library she then gasp in amazement at the size of the very library and how many unread and new books the place has to offer. “Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!” Twilight said in excitement as she marveled at the site. “It is always like I dreamed! So many books! So many ancient historical artifacts.” “Are you okay?” The librarian asked her from the front desk having caught attention of Twilight’s eager excitement. “Yes.” Twilight calmly replied as she blushed in embarrassment a little from being seen overly-excited about something. “Just a little excited for a first time visitor.” “Well as long as you rein it in a little feel free to look around and read to liking.” “Yes ma’am.” Twilight replied with a nod as she walked off to a nearby bookshelf. Once she was sure she was alone she then squeed with giddy glee as she uses her magic to pull out a handful of books from the shelves before making her way to a nearby table as she sat down and began reading them one by one with an eager smile on her face. As much as she wanted to voice her excitement she still is bound to the number one in the library “No talking.” She read so many books by the time the library closed she had read a bookshelf worth of books on Manehattan history. “Just want to let you know we are about to close so please finish up whatever you’re reading.” The librarian politely told Twilight who was just finishing up her last book. “Closing time? Already?” Twilight asked in surprise. “What time is it?” “8:55, which leaves you enough to time to finish up and leave so we can lock up for the night.” The librarian answered as she looked at her watch. “Wow, time really flies by fast when you’re learning a lot about Manehattan History.” Twilight giggled to herself amazed that the library managed to keep her busy for the whole afternoon. “Thanks for the heads-up. And don’t let me delay you from getting home after a long day of running a massive library. Take care” She said as she waved goodbye while waving her right hoof. “You have a good night.” The librarian kindly waved her back. “Feel free to come and read some more if you have time. We’re open all week.” “We’ll see.” Twilight answered as she made her outside where she greets herself to the nighttime sky in Manehattan. Taking flight she would fly up into the air where she would look around for Rarity and Applejack hoping she can find before it consumes her entire night. She would fly over buildings and streets with hopes to find her friends in the city for the next hour with no luck until she eventually spotted the two headed towards a residential apartment within small sight as a flyer flew right into her face. She quickly snagged it with her magic and read it wondering what is on it. "Please help us restore our long-lost but beloved tradition, the Midsummer Theater Revival. There's a guest performance by a local theater troupe, the Method Mares, as well as games, food, and much, much more. This event promises to bring our broken neighbors together and restore our sense of community but there's so much to do and we need your help." She read outloud. “Coco Pummel. Interesting I haven’t seen her since my last visit here.” Last time she was in Manehattan back when she was Midnight setting her visit up so she can obtain the key to the element of generosity and during the moments where her good side emerged helped Coco gain the courage to stand up to her former boss Suri Polomare. Deep down Twilight still had good in her looking out for over pony’s well-being even when she was evil. “I wonder if Applejack and Rarity have found their friendship problem yet?” Twilight wondered to herself as she flew over the apartment arriving in time as the two reached the doorstep. “Applejack! Rarity!” Twilight called out as she caught up to them. “Hey Twilight!” Applejack called out as she landed. “How was your afternoon.” “Pretty great!” Twilight said sounding pleased with herself. “Just spend the entire time reading a bookshelf full of Manehattan history. It kept me so busy the library was about to close by the time I finished. I am so glad I came. So many unread books and national artifacts I got to see while I was there.” “Nice to hear you’re have a great time darling.” Rarity complimented and satisfied that Twilight has had a successful time out. “We on the other hoof weren’t so lucky.” “I take you both haven’t figured out what the friendship problem is.” Twilight correctly deduced. “Yep.” Applejack replied with a solemn nod. “We’ve searched about the entire neighborhood looking for the problem but have found nothing.” “But we hope that visiting Coco Pommel might be the answer to our problems.” Rarity hopefully said as she knocked on the door. “Let’s hope so.” Twilight smiled in support for her friends as Coco opened the door to greet them. “Rarity!” Coco happily said as she and Rarity hugged. “It’s so good to see you.” “It’s great to see you too darling.” Rarity replied as she turned her attention to both Applejack and Twilight. “You remember these two don’t you?” “Of course!” Coco said as she approached them. “Applejack the Element of Honesty.” “Pleasure to meet you again.” Applejack greeted as she briefly took her hat as she re-introduced herself. “And Twilight Sparkle.” She said with a bow to her. “The Princess of Friendship, your majesty. It is my pleasure to greet you into my home.” “And it’s a pleasure to meet you as well.” Twilight kindly told her as she helped her back on her feet. “Although we did meet once before.” She added as she slightly moved her hoof around on the ground feeling a little awkward reintroducing herself. “That’s right.” Coco remembered of what she was talking about. “You were the same pony that helped me stand up to my former boss Suri. I really owe big time for giving me that encouragement otherwise I’d still be pushed around by that copycat.” “Yep, that’s me.” Twilight also acknowledged as she placed a hoof on her chin as she awkwardly recalls the memory. “So anyways, mind if we could in to talk more?” “Not at all.” Coco happily replied as she gestured the three ponies to come inside. “So what brings you all the way out here.” “Well, darling. Me and Applejack came here to find a friendship problem around here and we just happened to come across your flyer.” She told her friend as she presented the flyer for Coco to take and read for herself. “I can't believe you found my flyer. Quite a coincidence, don't you think?” Coco remarked as she read the paper Rarity presented her as she, Applejack, and Twilight sat themselves down on her couch with the offering of tea and sandwiches for them to which Twilight helped herself to a sandwich and a cup of tea to which she has placed on separate plates for a show of good manners like what Rarity taught her. “Applejack and I were specifically summoned here to be of service, and you, my dear friend, are in need of help.” Rarity explained as she took a sip from her tea and as Applejack took a bite from one of the sandwiches as she bent downwards and used her teeth to grab it. “It's no coincidence, darling. It's fate!” “This Midsummer Theater Revival – what is it, exactly?” Applejack asked as she took another bite from her sandwich. "An outdoor play held at the community park." Coco explained as she pulled up a nearby photo album from beside her chair. The first picture depicted a lovely park with a pony performing before a group of ponies sitting on the stands. "Many moons ago, local theatre troupes would perform, and ponies in the neighborhood would help make the costumes, and design set pieces…” Coco explained as she showed pictures of young fillies backstage helping an elderly pony by putting on their own costumes with another showing Coco as a filly helping out with the painting. “…prepare food to share during the performance." She added as she showed them pictures of ponies serving food. “Y'all do look like you're enjoyin' each other’s' company. Kinda reminds me of Ponyville.” Applejack said as Rarity levitates the photo album so she could take a personal look at some of the photos. “It sounds lovely, darling.” Rarity kindly complimented too. “It was, up until several moons ago.” Coco said as her happy mood faded as she looked aside. “What happened?” Applejack asked as she Rarity and Twilight gave each other surprised and curious looks of this south-going conversation. “That's Charity Kindheart. She was a well-known costume designer on Bridleway.” Coco explained as she showed them a picture of her with a group of fillies. “She started the Midsummer Theater Revival as a way to share her passion for theater with the neighborhood. No matter how busy she was, she always made time for the Revival.” She added as she showed them more pictures of her including her with a young Coco who places a flower on her head. “Sounds like you two were pretty close to each other back then like a grandmother-granddaughter bond.” Twilight noted seeing the kindly grandmother-like gestures she gave Young Coco. “We were.” Coco happily confirmed that their bond was like that as her happy tone shifted into a sad one as she closed her photo album. “Which is why she eventually decided to move away to be closer to her grandfillies. But after she moved away, the neighborhood lost the special tradition she had started, and worse, the sense of community it fostered.” She sadly lamented as she made her way to her balcony as she looks outside to see an elderly pony make her across the street as taxi-pony screeches to a sudden halt to avoid crashing into her. “Hey, I'm trotting here!” The elderly pony crankily told off the taxi-pony who looked irritated for not letting him even apologize as he ran off. “Nopony else stepped up to take over for Charity?” Applejack asked Coco as Rarity took a bite from her sandwich. “I've been trying to. But I've just gotten a last-minute request to alter costumes for the cast of My Fair Filly, and I'm afraid I haven't made much progress.” Coco sadly replied as she walked back inside and closed the doors after her. “Oh... There's just so much to do to bring back the Midsummer Revival, and my flyers haven't attracted a single volunteer!” Coco added as she looked like she was going to freak out. For somepony who is deathly afraid of failure to the point she is the verge of a nervous breakdown, Twilight could silently relate to her plight as she observed her brief moment of panic. “Say no more!” Rarity reassured her as Applejack walks up to her. “You finish up your work, and by this time tomorrow, you'll be up to your mane in ponies who want to lend a hoof. Applejack and I will make sure of it!” “You will?” Coco asked hopefully with a wide eyed grin. “You bet your boots we will!” Applejack confidently replied as she swung her left hoof around. “Oh, I don't wear boots. I find they chafe my calves when I walk.” Coco commented as she took it literally. “It's just an expression.” Applejack dryly told her as Coco blushed and looked aside embarrassed that she didn’t get the joke until now. “So while Applejack and Rarity help attract volunteers, I’ll help you out finish your work.” Twilight explained the plan and offering her help to Coco. “Really?” Coco asked astonished at Twilight’s offering her hoof of assistance. “Oh, I couldn’t possibility ask for your help.” “Don’t worry. I don’t mind.” Twilight assured her it’s no big deal. “But I thought you said you can’t interfere with this mission.” Applejack questioned her. “While the mission is specifically for you and Rarity is to solve the friendship problem. Doesn’t say I can’t help out like I did with Rainbow and Pinkie.” Twilight told them of what she can technically do. “Besides it’s the least I can do for her after lying about who I really was at the time.” “I’d be so honored to accept you help Princess Twilight.” Coco gratefully told her as she kissed her right hoof. “Please, Twilight is fine.” Twilight politely told her she doesn’t have to treat her like royalty all the time. “We’re all friends here.” “Right, sorry.” Coco blushed again as she apologized and let go of her hoof. The next morning, while Applejack and Rarity set off to distribute flyers and attract volunteers, Twilight on the other hoof stayed behind to help Coco finish the alternations for the Fair Filly by assisting her by giving her the fabric and supplies she needs to do so while she works her own magic on what she knows best. Despite Coco managing to make progress on her work, she still felt completely nervous that things will work out. Even more so, when Applejack and Rarity come back empty-hoofed. “This is a nightmare.” Coco sadly hung her head in defeat as Twilight placed a comforting hoof on her back. “Oh, not at all, darling. It's quite lovely.” Rarity complimented as she levitated the hat she had just made. “I think she was talkin' about the Midsummer Theater Revival.” Applejack clarified of what Coco meant. “I finished the alterations for My Fair Filly, but I've barely started the costumes for the Revival, and the Method Mares are coming to the park tomorrow for a costume fitting and rehearsal!” Coco voiced what other troubles are arising aside from having zero volunteers. “Well, I could help you with the costumes.” Rarity offered. “But what are we going to do about the rest? The park is in desperate need of repairs, and the sets still need to be built!” Coco added that there’s more problems that just dealing with costumes and dress rehearsals. “Well I know a thing or two about buildin' and fixin' things. It's kinda, well, my thing. Could be the reason the map called me here!” Applejack reassured her as she stepped off of the couch and beginning to see why she has summoned here. “You see, dear? We went out looking for volunteers when all the help you need is right here.” Rarity also reassured her with a smile. “Uh-huh.” Applejack replied as she walked over to Rarity. “The map wouldn't have chosen just Applejack and me if it was more than we could handle.” Rarity said with a smile. “You’ve got great friends and support.” Twilight added her assurance as she still has her friends by her side. “Everything is going to be just fine!” “Perhaps I spoke too soon...” Twilight then spoke as she looked at the horrors of the park’s current state with her previous tone taking an immediate 180 degree turn for the worst. Tall, wild, and overgrown growing plants and weeds covering the area, the benches and statues all rusted and old from little use and care over the years. The old theater is also an old worn down mess looked like it had seen better days than today. Considering the park’s size this is a lot of work for the earth pony more so than he thought it was. “Oh, dear, you're right.” Coco said fearing the same thing. “Are you sure you can manage this by yourself?” She asked again if this is still manageable. “Well, there's a lot to do, but Rarity's right. The map wouldn't have called us here if we weren't up for the challenge.” Applejack answered it sure is a lot of work but thinks she can still manage it. “You two go on and take care of the costumes. I'll see you at the dress rehearsal.“ Applejack waved Rarity and Coco off as they trotted off to do so. “Twilight, you’re with me.” She addressed the alicorn. “Okay, Applejack.” Twilight complied as she used her magic to have gardening tools on hoof for the two of them to use as Applejack gulps at the massive clean-up they are facing. With the supplies Twilight produced, the two got straight to work even though Applejack silently questions Twilight preferring to do this the hard way. Applejack pushed a wheel barrel as she focused on pulling the weeds from the ground. She managed to pull the weeds and roots from the ground and place them onto the barrel. So far, she had managed to successfully remove a large portion of the weeds enough to fill the barrel…but still had a ways to go. Twilight did her part by mowing the lawns working tirelessly on trying to mow down every over-grown blade of grass. She was so focused on mowing she Twilight continued moving the lawns, only to accidentally trip and loses control of the lawn mower which ran over Applejack’s hat as it fell off of her head from being snagged by a nearby tree branches. The accidental mow created holes in Applejack’s hat. Applejack while disappointed that her special hat was ruined doesn’t get mad at her over it as Twilight gave her an apologetic look pleading her not to get mad at her for that accidental mistake. Applejack tried to yank another pesky weed from the ground, but this weed was really strong and stubborn. She pulled hard on it with her teeth but it snapped off, causing her to tumble backwards into one of the statues. She quickly rolled out of the way before it fell on her, crushing her hat in the process as it fell off of her head again. Applejack could only sigh again as her signature hat suffered more damage. After several hours, all the weeds were gone, and Twilight finally managed to clean up the remains and mow down all of the overgrown grass. Both were clearly exhausted from the back-breaking labor. Twilight’s face was all sweaty and both she and Applejack received bruises and scratches from all of the times they tripped and fell. Applejack would then place her hat on one of the benches as she caught her breath, only for the bench to crumble underneath due to it being incredibly old and worn. At least her hat didn’t get further ruined in the process this time. But it is amazing that so much age would cause a simple hat light as a feather cause a bench to fall apart. After several more hours, the park was nearly perfected but It still needed a bit more work but it looked far better than before. Even though the two had successfully mowed the entire park lawn and removed all of the weeds they had yet to prepare the stage and the benches, which is a complete mess of disrepair. By the time the two were painting, Coco and Rarity had just arrived with the finished costumes as both Twilight and Applejack had paint spots over the fur coats. "I know it looks bad, but we're movin' as fast as we can." Applejack spoke on behalf of he and Twilight just as she stepped forward and accidentally got her hoof stuck in the pain bucket much to her tired frustration. “Don't worry, we've still got plenty of time." Rarity said even though she questions why Twilight didn’t just use her magic to zap the problem away "Everything's going to be-" "Ehm, excuse me?" A voice called out attracting the four ponies attention. One of the four ponies that had called out was one the Method Mares actors and actresses that Coco had asked to perform at the revival. "Is this where the Midsummer Theatre Revival is supposed to be, perchance?" The head stallion asked as he adjusted his dark shades so his eyes are visible. "We're here for the dress rehearsal.” The female pink-furred pony wearing a French hat said. "Oh, yes!" Coco said putting on a smile. "We've just put the finishing touches on the costumes." The Method Mare on the female pony’s right whispered to her. "At least those look professional." "We'll do a dry run of the play first, and then the fitting." The pink pony said as she approached the stage. But the stage is something both Twilight and Applejack hadn’t gotten a chance to fix as a result of fixing up the rest of the park. "No, wait! I haven't gotten a chance to-" Applejack called out in a late attempt to stop her. Once she stood on the stage, the roof above her began to crumble. Twilight quickly rushed over and pushed the pony out of the way, shielding her from the collapse. Once the dust cleared up the stage was now in complete shambles and completely destroyed leaving everypony in shock. "…reinforcing the stage yet." Coco could look on devastated as she looks over the park from her balcony. After all the hard work they did, it seemed liked it was all for nothing. The Midsummer Theater Revival couldn't go on without a stage. Now the costumes and the spark created to try to make this all happen would all go to waste. “I just wanted to live up to Charity's example, to bring my neighborhood together again. But the park is still a mess, we haven't even thought about what refreshments to serve during the performance, and even if we had, we don't have a stage for the Method Mares to perform on! It's hopeless... Just hopeless!” Coco said in despair that her hopes seem to have come to an end now. “But how could this place still be a mess when you had somepony who knows how to uses magic?” Rarity wondered as she turned to Twilight with a raised eyebrow. “Twilight? Why didn’t you just use your magic in the first place?” “Well for starters…” Twilight said as she raised both of her hooves in defensive manner. “I’m not using my magic to help Applejack with cleaning the park or helping out with her chores, not after last time. And secondly and most importantly, I have a gut feeling that magically zapping the problem won’t help you two solve the real friendship problem. Hence, depriving you two of completing your mission.” She said in emphasis on you two twice. “But why?” Applejack asked wondering the same question. “I mean, I can at least see why Rarity’s here – Coco's her friend, and she has an eye for costumes and all – but me? I was never gonna be able to finish a project this big even with your help. You on the other hoof with your past as Midnight had some motivation and reason to help Coco.“ “I’m afraid the answer to that question is something for you and Rarity to solve.” Twilight replied to tell her that her hooves are tied in this matter and this something the farmpony and fashionista have to figure out for themselves. “We'll return to Ponyville as failures! Why must this be, Applejack? Why? Why?! Wh—“ Rarity said dramatically feeling like a failure as she briefly fell into Applejack’s arms and cried until being interrupted from her freak out by Applejack with a hoof to her mouth. “Now hold on there. I'm not suggestin' we pack up and go home.” Applejack interjected. "Then what are you suggesting-" Rarity said muffled with Applejack’s hoof still on her mouth before removing it "Ptoo! Then what are you suggesting?" “I'm suggestin' we stop worryin' about what we can't do and start doing what we can.” Applejack explained as she, Twilight, and Rarity joined Coco on the balcony. “I think I've got a plan. It won't be anythin' big or fancy, but it'll be somethin'. And somethin's gotta be better than nothin', right?” She told Coco as she wrapped her hoof around her “I suppose so...” Coco responded still downcast “That's the spirit! Sorta...” Applejack replied with great confidence…mostly. “Definitely!” Twilight corrected the farm pony. “And if there is one thing I can help you with is with this one bit of advice. Trying looking at this at from a different angle. Think smaller.” She told her friends who give puzzled looks of what she meant by that. The four ponies worked on building a new stage and by the time they finished as Applejack hammered the last nail in place with Twilight by her side supplying the nails it was already late in the afternoon. The new stage anything big or exciting and was far more humble and modest in design, but it would still get ponies' attention as it was positioned at the entrance of the park. "Alright y'all, it's ready!" Applejack said as she nailed down the last nail and put the hammer back on her tool belt. Coco's eyes sparkled as she smiled brightly as it looked exactly as it did when Charity was still around. For her it was like revisiting the past there. Once Applejack and Twilight got off the stage, the Method Mare's leader poked his head out from behind the curtain. "Should we go ahead and start?" Coco nodded her head as the curtain opened to start the show as all four ponies sit down in front of the stage. The Method Mare's leader played the role of a business pony behind his desk with a cash sign note to cover his cover mark as part of the play, while the aged female Method Mare approached, playing the role of Charity Kindheart complete with a note of Charity’s cutie mark over her flank. "Excuse me?" The aged female pony said in an elderly voice, "I'm Charity Kindheart, I'm here about the open design position! I brought some samples of my work. I'm sorry I'm late. I had the hardest time finding my way here!" As the play went on, Coco was looking on amazed when a pony with light blue fur and a pink-reddish mane walked by and had took a moment to notice the play and sat down deciding to watch it. She was already starting to enjoy it. “I just moved here, and I keep getting mixed up by the street names! I had a map, but I dropped it in a puddle, which only made the street names harder to read!” The aged female pony continued as she spoke acting sad and whipped up some tears. “I see.” The Methord Mare said. An earth pony and her Pegasus son were walking by when the little filly tugged on his mother's tail. "What is that?" he asked catching attention to the show. "I dunno, sugar, looks like some kinda play." The filly’s mother replied. "Well, can we stay and watch it please? Please, can we, can we?" The filly pleaded as he briefly got in her face. "Oh alright, I suppose we could stay for a minute." The mother reluctantly but kindly obliged as she gently pushed her filly out of her personal space. The two walked over and sat down so they could watch the play. “Excuse me, but your next appointment is here.” The other male pony addressed the lead pony. “Alright. Send him in.” The Method Mare addressed him before turning his attention back to the Charity actress. "I'm sorry, but based on these samples, I just don't think this is the place for you." the Method Mare actor said, making the Charity actress gasp dramatically. "Don't get me wrong, these clothes are all exquisite, and well-made, but more theatrical than avant-garde.” He gently told her it’s not all bad. “Have you considered costume design? I have a contact on Bridleway! If you're interested, I can put you in touch with him.” He said as the Charity actress sounded pleased hearing this. “And scene." The curtain closed and at that point more and more ponies took notice of the play and smiles of interest immediately appeared on their faces as they all gathered around. The four ponies all look at each other smiling seeing that the play is attracting more and more attention. The play carried on to the next scene, showing the story of how Charity came up with the idea for the Midsummer Revival. "Charity, dear, is that you?" The other elderly actress asked, dressed as an elderly mare. "Hello, Mrs. Pearblossom!" The Charity actress greeted. “I didn’t see. Oops.” She said as she accidentally tossed out onto the ground a pink blanket. "Are these the costumes you've been working on?" The other mare asked. "Yes, I was supposed to be finished by now, but there's just so much to do, and I still have a few last-minute alterations to make before opening night!” the Charity actress said as she pulled out a blue piece of fabric as stage prop birds floated across the stage. “I'm sorry I couldn't get enough tickets for everypony in the neighborhood. I hope Mr. Pearblossom wasn't too disappointed. I know Trotter on the Roof is one of his favorites." "Oh, my dear filly, don't worry about that. We're so proud of you! We shall be with you in spirit!" The other elderly mare reassured the Charity actress. "Thank you! You've all made me feel so welcome here, and have become like family to me! I just wish I could share this experience with you and the others!" The Charity actress gratefully told the other actress. Charity's story was truly a heartfelt and inspirational one which most certainly reached the hardened hearts of many Manehattan residents of the town. A construction worker pony walked by, curious as to what was going on. "Eh, what's goin' on?" he asked a pink-furred mare with a blonde colored mane beside him. "It's the Midsummer Theatre Revival." she replied with a bright smile. "The Method Mares are performing!" "The Revival. Mhm, yeah, my pop used to bring me." The worker pony smiled as he removed his hat and sat down beside the female pony as he relieved his childhood memories. Later that afternoon it was about to get dark as the sun is now setting upon the city and the stars began to make their presence known as the play is now entering its final scene as the actress playing Charity Kindheart and the actress playing her elderly are now reenacting the story and how Charity had found a way to bring so many ponies together. "So nice of you to put on this play for the neighborhood." said the actress playing the elderly pony. "I couldn't have done it without everypony's help!" said the Charity actress as she sewed her cloth on the prop sewing table. "I know it's not Bridleway, but-" "Oh, pish-tosh! It's perfect, dear!" The elderly responded that it’s great the way it is. Twilight couldn’t help but chuckle a little as she eyed Rarity to recall she said something exactly like that earlier as Rarity rolled her eyes amused. An elderly pony in the audience tried to find a good spot and a male pony right next to her kindly moved aside, allowing her to take her spot. "Oh, you're such a dear, thank you! This is so nice. Haven't seen the neighborhood this friendly since Charity moved away!" She kindly complimented the pony’s gesture. Coco blushed upon hearing this seeing that she finally did it. She accomplished her goal in bringing back the spirit of family and community that Charity had started long ago. Rarity, Applejack, and Twilight all smiled proudly at their friend, congratulating her on a job well done as the three ponies hoof pumped each other. Once the play ended, the audience clapped and cheered. The Method Mares bowed before the audience and their leader spoke up. "Thank you, fillies and gentlecolts. Please give a warm welcome to the one who made this entire event possible, our neighbor, Coco Pommel!" Coco couldn't help but awkwardly grin at the applause she was getting as the audience lifted her up and towards the stage. She stood before them, smiling very happy with herself for what she has accomplished before she cleared her throat as she prepares to deliver her speech to the audience. "Thank you all so much for coming. The Midsummer Theatre Revival was always something that meant so much to me, and it seems it means quite a lot to all of you as well. I really can't take all the credit, though. My dear friends Rarity, Applejack, and Princess Twilight Sparkle helped me ever so much." The three friends waved at the audience who clapped loudly for them as they walked up to the stage. Rarity humbly bowed Twilight felt comfortable while humbly waving to the audience while Applejack blushed shyly as she waved to the audience too. "Oh darling, please, it was just a few costumes." Rarity humbly said. “I’m just more than happy to help ponies the best I can.” Twilight said just as humble as Rarity. "Aw shucks, I just happen to be good with a hammer, is all." Applejack said as she blushed and addressed the audience. ”To be honest, we had much bigger plans to start. When those fell through, we decided to simplify. This was the result." "Oh, don't be so modest." Rarity replied. "Coco and I were lost." "You bet your boots we were.” Coco echoed the expression back at Applejack with a wink and smile, which Applejack returned. After the play was over, the Method Mares and various other ponies happily chatted with each other as they were all making new friends and sharing how much they loved the play itself. The worker pony got a date with the lovely female pony he met out of it. While Twilight was speaking with Coco who was with a few ponies asking for pictures and autographs of Coco with Twilight to help further promote the theater play for future performances. Rarity and Applejack all watched as they see the rekindled neighborhood friendship as they see everypony getting along. The business pony who declined Applejack and Rarity’s offer to assist, as well as the pony whom Rarity gave her hat to when they arrived, approached the group. "We just wanted to say how much we enjoyed the Midsummer Theatre Revival, and how much it inspired us!" The female pony said. “Oh yeah.” Applejack said. "I used to think that to help my community I had to do something big, heh heh. And let's face it, in this day and age, who has the time for such a commitment? But here, you did something as simple as building a stage and putting on a play, and, heh, look at how it's brought everypony together." "I saw Coco's flyers for volunteers but didn't think anything I'd have time to do would be that useful." The female pony said sounding a little surprised seeing what somepony can do can change all of that. "Now I wish I'd offered to help, even if it was just pulling a few weeds, or planting a few flowers." Applejack smiled as she extended her hoof showing them the park and the stage which showed that there is still some work needed to be done to make it really beautiful. "Not sure if you noticed, but the park is far from bein' fixed up. I imagine if you look around, you'll find there's lots of little ways for you to get involved in changin' this place for the better." "And I will!" The female pony said with positive determination. "And I don't think we'll be alone!" The business pony vouched his newfound support as the two trotted off to speak with their new friends. Rarity and Applejack felt a tingle and heard a ringing sound. They turned to their flanks they witnessed their cutie marks glowing brightly to notify them that their mission is complete now. "Yee-hoo! We did it!" Applejack cheered as she hugged Rarity who returned the gesture. "Wait, I think I understand now! It all makes perfect sense!" Rarity gasped in realization. "Huh?" Applejack replied in confusion as Rarity galloped ahead as she leviatated her old hat off of her head and tossed it into the trash. She purchased a new hat from a nearby stand with the same business pony they encountered earlier who treated her with much more kindness as she hands him the bits. "I know why the map called you two here!" Rarity told Applejack as she levitated two hats in her magic. "You do?" Applejack asked as Rarity placed a new and identical hat similar to her old one on her head. "If Twilight had used their magic to fix the park, it wouldn't have fixed the real problem, which is that these Manehattan ponies didn't think they had time to do something for their community!” She explained as she briefly adjusted Applejack’s hat and extended a hoof to the crowd of Manehattan ponies. “But by building that stage and making sure the play went on, you showed them that just by doing something small, you can make a big difference!" “Well I’ll be.” Applejack waved her hoof around seeing that it makes sense and no sooner she said that it was instantly confirmed. “Exactly!” Twilight’s voice called out to them as she approached the two with a proud smike. “Congratulations. Now you understand why the map chose you two for this particular mission especially you Applejack.” “Seems like you figured it out on your own and wanted us to figure out ourselves.” Applejack chuckled a bit in realization as she sees Twilight giving her a knowing sly smirk. “Yep.” Twilight replied feeling upbeat going forward. “And I can’t wait until the day the map finally calls me to solve a friendship problem and see that I am ready for the challenge.” “And someday it will come darling.” Rarity reassured her it will before turning her attention back to Applejack. "Seems you have more in common with the Manehattan ponies than you thought!" Rarity told Applejack as she placed a hoof onto her chest. Applejack laughed as she politely removed her hoof from her chest. "Heheh. But, all the same, I'd sure like to head back to Ponyville on the next train. I want to check in with Apple Bloom and find out how the Sisterhooves Social turned out." Applejack told Rarity as they walked down the street. "Oh, absolutely, my dear." Rarity complied with Applejack’s wish as she suddenly gasped and spotted something just across the street. "Just as soon as I stop that pony in the shop over there from purchasing that dreadfully hideous scarf!" Rarity galloped as fast as her hooves could carry her as she crossed the street. "Stop! You're making a terrible mistake!" She called out to the pony. Applejack and Twilight laughed as their friend went off to prevent yet another crime against fashion. “Some things never change about that pony.” Twilight replied with a shrug. “Not when it comes to crimes against fashion.” Applejack replied shrugging too as they both chuckled. “Well I think I’m going to stick around a little longer while I take the long and scenic way back.” Twilight said as she spread her wings and flew up. “Besides for me this is well-deserved since I too helped Coco out again as Twilight this time. And I still have a number of historical landmarks and museums I have yet to see.” She added cheerfully as she flew off as Applejack laughs to herself seeing Twilight’s adorableness as she sang some of the lyrics of Rarity generosity song. "Oh, Manehattan, what you do to me Such a huge bustling community And there's always opportunity To do the friendly thing If some are grouchy, pay no mind Surprise instead with something kind Lo and behold, you may just find A smile is what you bring.” She sang as she flew off to the Mare Statue so she can observe it full glory.