//------------------------------//
// The Deal 
// Story: Flim Flam's Famous Freakshow 
// by Jest 
//------------------------------//

As if on cue, Applejack extended a hoof, photograph sitting atop the offered limb. Rarity swiftly grabbed it, only for her hoof to be snagged by Applejack before the reporter had a chance to leave.

“I heard what you said,” whispered the voice of Applejack from inside the booth. “Were you serious?”

“Deadly so,” Rarity answered.

Applejack pulled back the curtain and peeked her head outside, peering intently into Rarity’s eyes.

“If you do that, Flim won't be happy. You were supposed to see and review both the variety hour and Trixie’s act,” Applejack pressed.

“Then I will simply convince him otherwise,” Rarity exclaimed.

Applejack held on for a second longer before releasing her ironlike grip. “Do that, and I’ll show you to their wagons. You’ll have to wait until this is over though.”

“I accept,” Rarity exclaimed.

The former fashionista turned around and trotted back over to the edge of the stage just as another group was sitting down.

“Shouldn't you be rushing over to the main tent?” Flim demanded.

“I was thinking of skipping it,” Rarity offered. “This is far more interesting.”

“Really now,” Flim muttered.

“Quite,” Rarity exclaimed. “You wouldn't mind if I interviewed your performers, would you?”

“We paid you to review both shows,” Flim stated.

“And I will, you are open tomorrow aren't you?” Rarity pressed.

“Not good enough. We wanted the boost in sales your paper promised it could bring in time for the Sunday crowd,” Flim continued.

“You know Flim, I think that your brother is underestimating your variety hour,” Rarity remarked.

Flim blinked and turned fully to the mare. “What did you just say?”

“You heard me, darling. I’ve seen dozens, hundreds of magic shows in my time, but where can you see the strongest mare in Equestria, and a two-headed pony? Nowhere!” Rarity continued.

Flim was silent, a contemplative look crossing his face.

“Look, darling. What you have here is gold, real gold, not the kind that can be faked,” Rarity gushed. “Besides. This kind of show is shunned in Canterlot, but they still come out to see it. Trust me, if you want to attract the big spenders you advertise this show, not Trixie. They’ve all seen a million acts like hers.”

“Trixie’s show is unique,” Flim stated halfheartedly.

“Do you know how many magicians say that? All of them,” Rarity dismissed, scoffing at the mere notion. “An interview with each of your variety hour performers will make this article really sand out.”

Flim took the next group’s money and thought about it for a few seconds before reluctantly nodding. “Fine, but this better be one glowing review.”

“It will be,” Rarity proclaimed.

Flim sighed. “Don't make me regret this Miss Belle.”

Rarity smiled. “I won't.”