//------------------------------// // Episode 37: The Mane Attraction // Story: The Pony Guard (Season 5) // by MXCDarkHorse2020 //------------------------------// Episode 37: The Mane Attraction "A little more, just a bit more…stop! That's perfect!" Applejack smiled proudly at the pony workers, who managed to lift up the wooden green apple for the stage. From the lights in position, to the background props of rainbows, apples and disco ball, decorations, all of the above was looking spectacular looked downright incredible. Many residents of the kingdom gathered at Mizumi Grove in preparations for the Helping Hooves Music Festival, which would raise money for the Ponyville elementary schoolhouse's new art department. The townsponies, Pride Landers, The Lion and Pony Guard, all assisted with the preparations, setting up the decorations, organizing the stage, snacks, drinks and games galore. Interestingly, the mastermind who was put in charge of organizing the whole thing was Applejack, and surprisingly she was really good at it. She was completely focused throughout the whole preparations like Twilight Sparkle on a good day. When Amethyst Star showed her a clipboard, Applejack read the words before nodding her head, signaling that they had done everything on the list. "Wow, Applejack! Are you sure you've never managed a concert before?" Twilight Sparkle asked, feeling both very proud and impressed with how well she’s managed all of this with an equally impressed Sunset Shimmer by her side. Applejack scratched the back of her neck, blushing humbly in response. "Well, it turns out doin' up a concert's the same as settin' up a rodeo." "So it seems." Sunset remarked just when Twilight presented a long and tall luist of bands seeking to perform. "And thanks to Pinkie's connections organizing the Ponypalooza Rock Concert, and Bunga’s charming assistance, we've got quite a lineup for the Helping Hooves Music Festival." “And by that we mean quite a lineup.” Ono added with emphasis as he approached the two ponies along with Kion. “And I can’t believe Bunga managed to help convince all of those bands to take part in this concert.” “Well, he is doing it for a good cause.” Kion replied. “True.” Ono nodded in agreement. "Though I do wonder how he managed to pull it off without bugging anyone…” He chuckled. “...and I don’t mean literally.” “Easy.” Bunga suddenly appeared behind him courtesy of Rainbow giving him a lift with mischievous intent. “AAH!” “With a little wheeling and dealing, and poison…” Everyone looked on in shock and horror until he presented a cake he made himself. “...this is what I’m talking about. This along with many treats to be presented as refreshments at the concert. Non-toxic of course.” Upon seeing that he had everyone stuck in shock added. “What? Did you think I was going to actually poison everyone?” Ono was the first to speak his mind by saying while stumbling with his words. “Well...you actually did say poison so...um...yes.” Bunga ribbed him in response playfully. “Fair enough. But I would never do something like that even if I faced off with something I really hate.” “Not even…” “Nope.” “Right.” Now Ono felt silly for even questioning his friend there. Just then Pinkie Pie came in spontaneously appearing right before each and every one of her friends much to their sudden surprise. "Twilight! Kion! Fuli! Applejack! Sunset! Ono! Rainbow Dash! Kyoga! Rarity! Fluttershy! Beshte! Spike! Pinkie Pie!" In her excitement she even greeted her own reflection in a mirror a couple of stallions were moving. "Oh wait, that's me. Everybody!" Pinkie shouted before gathering everyone around her for her big news. "What is it, Pinkie?" Twilight asked. "Bunga and I have the most amazing news ever!” “We do?” Bunga asked looking confused until Pinkie got in her face to shake his body to remind him yes they do. “Uh, yeah! It is totally gonna freak your frizz!" Pinkie added while galloping her arms around in excitement. “Oh yeah!” Bunga remembered. “That was the one other thing I was going to tell you when Pinkie got here.” "Well, spill it, you guys!" Rainbow insisted, already curious as to what had to tell everyone and especially has Pinkie in such a tizzy. "Well, it wasn't easy." Bunga started said, "In fact, it was terribly difficult. But we have managed to book the biggest pony pop star in all of Equestria as the main attraction of the Helping Hooves Music Festival!" "Who?!" Sunset curiously asked eagerly wanting to know who is coming. "Sapphire Shores?" Applejack and Fuli asked with curious excitement in response to the pony's name and music. But upon hearing her name, Pinkie Pie scoffed. "Sapphire Shores?! Please! Sapphire Shores is merely the second biggest pony pop star in Equestria." “Okay…” Fuli remarked a little put off by that remark. “Then who did you get...?" She asked right before Bunga surprised her and Applejack by popping up from behind him and wrapping his arms around them. "We've got, the one, the only…" "Countess Coloratura!" both Bunga and Pinkie Pie addressed the name happily and loudly as possible, along while having the biggest smiles on their faces. “Okay. I stand corrected.” Fuli said now even more impressed having let her previous irritation towards Pinkie slide upon hearing her name. “That’s even more impressive.” “No way! I love Countess Coloratura!” Makini suddenly stated with bursting enthusiasm as she suddenly appeared alongside the Lion and Pony Guard. “Really?” Fuli asked with an amused smirk. “Of course!” Makini happily stated. “I even listened to each and every one of her songs from oldest to newest!” She presented each and every one of the records, discs, and pictures of her to showcase it. "Who in the hay is Countess Coloratura?" Applejack asked before everyone around her gasped in horror at her question like it was the most unbelievable thing they had ever heard. Pinkie Pie stood still, her mane and tail suddenly standing tall, literally stunned shocked. "My frizz has been freaked!" “Though in all fairness…” Ono spoke in the country pony’s defense. “...this is pretty new to everyone in the Pride Lands. Expect for Makini and Bunga of course.” “Yeah.” Kion agreed while approaching Pinkie Pie wanting to know for himself what the hype is all about with her in Ponyville. “Who is this Countess Coloratura pony?" "And how is she the biggest pony pop star in all of Equestria..." Sunset asked while quickly adding to the crowd. "...and don't gasp everyone. It's been a while since I've been here." Pinkie Pie fixed her previously frizzed mane and tail, turning them back to their natural poofy bouncy style, before groaning. "Uh, I just told you that she's the biggest pony pop star in Equestria! How-how-how-how-how have you not heard of her?!" She asked while pouncing on Kion looking deeply into his eyes. Kion gently removed the pony off of his body before answering. “Um, mainly because I’m not exactly a music kind of guy myself. No offense…” He added to every pony surrounding him. “None taken.” Applejack returned as she then spoke herself as she pondered the name of the musician Pinkie and Bunga had just hired. “Though I did know a gal named Coloratura when I was just a filly." She herself laughed and snorted at the idea. "Wouldn't it just be the funniest thing if that Coloratura and this Coloratura were the same Coloratura? Heh." Pinkie Pie eyed the pony suspiciously. "Do you mean to tell me that you actually know Countess Coloratura?" "Well, I don't think it's the same pony, since my friend wasn't any sort of high-falutin' countess." "And it has been a long time since we were all fillies." Sunset added while backing Applejack up. "Do you remember her cutie mark?" "Sure do." Applejack remembered the cutie mark perfectly, like it was just yesterday, "It had this super colorful bunch of musical notes that just shimmered in the light." "You mean... like this?!" Pinkie Pie shoved a picture up Applejack's face. It was the image of a pony's flank with a cutie mark that consisted of a golden five inch star with five musical notes around it, one green, one orange, one red, another purple and another blue. Her coat was a light bluish gray color. Applejack recognized both the mark and coat color immediately. "Well, fancy that! That there's the very same cutie mark!" “Are you kidding me?!” Bunga gasped while leaping on towards Applejack and grabbed him by the cheeks, getting nose to nose with him. “Do you have any idea the number of hoops we had to jump through to get her to perform at the festival?!" He asked rather frantically, to which Applejack shook her head when he released her. "A whole lot of hoops! That pony is very demanding!" "What? Nah." "Yah! I mean why didn't you tell us that from the beginning?!" "Well Bunga,..." Sunset spoke up while levitating the honey badger off of Applejack's face. "...for starters you didn't ask? And second and most importantly, we just learned about this just now. I mean how was she supposed to tell you after she just told she was coming?" "Uh..." Bunga failed to come with a good counter-response. "...good point." "Though I completely understand." Rarity commented trying to make sense of it. "We artistes require certain necessities in order to do our best work." "This was clearly some sort of misunderstandin'." Applejack asserted. "'Cause Rara was just as down home as me!" "Rara?!" Everyone simultaneously exclaimed when she said that strange name. "Even that big name was too fancy for her, so I shortened Coloratura to "Rara"! We had the best time at Camp Friendship! Rara was just so easygoin'! We were like two apples from the same branch." As Applejack spoke more about her old friend, she recalled the wonderful memories they shared together back then. Back then both ponies were fillies, both having a great time together. Laughing, playing and frolicking together like two apples in the same branch at said summer camp. Regardless of her fancy name, Rara was as humble as Celestia on a good day. Appearance wise she was as elegant as her name, sporting an aquamarine blue coat, dark indigo mane with moderate blue highlights and matching eyes. In fact, she didn't care one bit about her appearance even when getting mud on her mane when she and Applejack played tug of war, and jumped into the lake to clean herself up afterwards, even engaging with a few friendly splash fights with Applejack. But the main thing Applejack remembered most about her was her voice. A voice of an angel, especially when they both performed at the talent show together, with Applejack strumming her guitar. "Rara and I prepared this song for the camp talent show. When we performed, she belted it out, singin' in the most colorful, clear voice I'd ever heard!" Rara was rather nervous at first, but thanks to the encouragement of her friend, she took in a deep breath and sang in the voice Applejack just described. Her voice truly was a sight to behold. It was so amazing that the moment she sang the first couple of words, all of the campers stopped what they were doing and listened with their ears wide open to hear her. Equestria, the land I love A land of harmony Our flag does wave from high above For ponykind to see Applejack noticed her friend's cutie mark shimmer like a dazzling star as she sang with all of her heart. Equestria, a land of friends Where ponykind do roam They say true friendship never ends Equestria, my home After Applejack tinged on the silver triangle, all the pony campers and camp counselors cheered for the young filly, who cried tears of joy and hugged her friend, thanking her for giving her the courage to sing her heart out. Something she would never forget. "After camp, we wrote to each other for a bit, but...then we lost touch." Applejack's gazed fell to the ground, downcast by the fact that she had not heard of her friend in so long. “Must be tough.” Fuli said with sympathy as she nodded very understanding of what she is going through. “I know what that’s like.” Applejack nodded back knowing full well of what she is talking about. “Rara always did want to go to Manehattan to try and make it big. But a demandin' diva?" She shook her head at the idea of her friend changing into something she wasn't. She walked over to Bunga and Pinkie Pie, smiling confidently. "Just you wait. Once Rara gets here, you'll see she's just a plain old pony like you and me." Suddenly, both Bunga and Pinkie Pie's eyes widened, with equally widen smiles. "We don't have to wait – she's here!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed with gushing excitement, much to Applejack's surprise. “Really?" Applejack spun around to look in the direction her friends were in awe about. Deep down she was very elated, at the thought and sight of being able to reunite with her childhood friend. Approaching them was something...rather large.. It appeared to be some form of golden diamond, being wheeled towards the group and the festival grounds by a group of muscular male ponies with raw strength. All wearing punk rock styled clothing, leather jackets, pants, boots, gloves and sunglasses, and their individual cutie marks. Once the diamond wagon came to a stop music played and steam began coming out of it, which then opened up. Stereos playing the music appeared and more diamonds appeared from behind the opened one, where a throne with the image of Rara's cutie mark, and a mysterious figure inside of the wagon lounging on the couch inside of it. She got up and stepped forward into the light, revealing herself as she got out of the diamond encasing. She appeared wearing a leather and diamond edge purple jacket with a high collar, a purple shirt, additional diamond bracelets, a choker necklace with blue stones. She has a very familiar aquamarine coat, blue eyes, but with a long white mane with gray purple streaks styled into the larger high ponytail. On her face she wore a black veil that obscured her face from everyone around her, and underneath that veil she had big black brows that are more pronounced and bigger than everyone else. While she looked very different, one thing for sure is that this is indeed the pony Applejack befriended back in summer camp as evident by the cutie mark she recognized on her flank. All the other ponies and Pride Lander were star struck and in awe to see the celebrity standing before them, while Fuli and Kyoga looked on indifferent as always. Applejack however was the most shocked out of all of them…but not for the same reason. "Rara?" "That's her?" Fuli asked, being just as surprised as the country pony. "And why is she wearing that get-up?" Sunset also asked, equally surprised with what she is seeing. "Because that doesn't seem very convincing for a humble pony like you." "No… that can't be. I mean...I don't know." While they were questioning who exactly this pony was, Pinkie Pie and Bunga all squealed with delight when they saw her. "Countess Coloratura!" Pinkie Pie squealed so loudly with bursting excitement that she passed out, leaving Beshte and Kion to look down at her in surprise. Kyoga on the other hand, simply shook her head before using her magic to splash water on her face to wake her up. “Huh? What happened?” Pinkie looked on frantically before From behind a male earth pony with a white coat, dark brown eyes light peach colored mane and tail with lighter streaks. Both mane and tail were curly in appearance and he wore spectacles along with a blue business suit with a light blue undershirt, yellow vest and a red tie. He made his way towards the already set up stage, with the famous singer and backup dancers behind him. He roughly shooed anybody in his path away, as they were all far too dazzled by the pop star to even notice his rude behavior. "Clear the way! Stand back! Keep your hooves and tail to yourselves!" “Sure thing…” Kyoga complied. “...rude…” she muttered under her breath as she just managed to pull Pinkie away from being trampled by the rude pony. The singer, Countess Coloratura, held her head up high as she made her way to the stage, while Applejack tried her best to see if she was the pony she befriended from Camp Friendship. She looked back to Fuli and Sunset unsure if she should. They both simply gave her a gentle nudge on over towards her to assert “yes” she should. “What are you waiting for?" "Go on.” “But…” “If she has the exact same cutie mark as you described then I’m pretty sure it’s her.” Fuli assured before pushing the pony on over to the pony. “Go for it.” Following the cheetah and unicorn’s advice, she took a deep breath and moved to approach her. She cleared her throat before speaking, "Um... hi. Remember me? We met at Camp Friendship? I gave you the nickname "Rara"?" For a moment, the mare looked away before a smile appeared on her face, like something clicked in her head. She smiled wider once she spun around to take a good look at the orange earth pony beside her. When Applejack moved to look at her in the eyes, she could see things clearly now. "AJ?" she asked, making the country pony smile happily upon recognizing her childhood friend. "Yeah! Heh. Howdy, Rara!" Unfortunately for her, this heartfelt reunion was cut short when Rara's manager suddenly swooped in and began whispering in the singer's ears. All she did was nod her head before placing some a stamp on her cheek. It was the image of a heart shaped horse hoof, painted with red sparkly face paint. "Hoofsies!" Rara said with a short laugh before leaving her old friend feeling very confused. “What the hay had just happened?” She thought to herself. “Good question.” Fuli replied having heard that while looking on rather disapproving of the gesture her manager ordered her to do. "Your reunion with Rara got cut short." Sunset answered while looking on at the pony like she could kill him with with a sudden burst of fire if she chose to do so. “Sure wasn’t friendly.” Kyoga commented sharing the same disapproving look as Fuli. “I disagree.” Rarity commented upon seeing the stamp sticker on Applejack's cheek. "She got hoofsies from Countess Coloratura! Look!" Rarity opened up her compact mirror for Applejack to see the sticker on her face. "Ooh, she clearly thinks you're very special!" “And so does every one of fans…” Sunset remarked with an unconvinced expression as she gestured towards the Pride Landers and ponies all being gifted with stamp kisses, all while the pop singer giggled towards each and every one of them. “...sure looks like it.” "Hoofsies! Hoofsies! Hoofsies!" Applejack rolled her eyes in agreement and wiped the stamp off of her face with her hoof, "Yeah… real special." Once all of Coloratura's fans received their Hoofsies, her manager gestured to one of the dance members in order to stand guard so no more fans would get near the pop princess superstar. "Now that's how you make an entrance!" The manager, said with high praise for how she handled that. "Big, bold, absolutely stunning! Though it was muddied a bit with your interaction with that dusty farmpony.” He then frowned while rolling his eyes in disgust. “Do you actually know her?" "Oh, yeah, that's my childhood fillyfriend, AJ! She was the one that started calling me Rara." the Countess smiled as she recalled said memory. Thanks to Applejack, the new nickname helped give herself that humble feeling of what really defines herself. "Oh, yes, how cute and...common. Of course, I was the one that started calling you Countess, and just look at how you've moved up in Equestria since then! Why, you've gotten everything you've ever wanted!" Coloratura smiled in agreement as there was no denying the fact that he did give her everything she ever wanted. The touring, the concerts, the dazzling displays, all to truly give herself the chance to live her passion. "Although, there is also the matter of you performing in front of these…animals." He commented while gesturing to the already irritated quad who can happen hear every word he is privately saying to her. "Svengallop, even though technically they’re animals they still deserve to be treated with as much respect as any other fan here.” The Countess reminded. “And being able to perform for them will allow the Pride Landers to truly see what I’m capable of here as much as in Equestria.” "Yes, that is true." Svengallop conceded to her point. "Speaking of which, where is the pony Pinkie Pie?" "Ooh! I'm the pony Pinkie Pie, Mr. Manager, sir!" "And I'm the honey badger, Bunga!" Pinkie Pie came rushing along with a wagon of things she pushed for the male pony manager. Bunga stood beside her, smiling broadly with a clipboard in his paws. Svengallop worked hard to mask his bitterness about having to work with them, especially since it helps make the Countess happy, and that there is profit to be gained out of this. "Do you have the water imported from Rainbow Falls that I requested for Countess Coloratura?" "Twenty glass containers full right here!" Bunga happily replied, tapping his pencil on one of the jars while Pinkie Pie showed Svengallop the container itself with the bottles. "Did I not tell you to provide straws in all of Countess Coloratura's beverages?" "Uh, I don't think so." Pinkie honestly replied. "But lucky for you, I have the biggest straw collection in Equestria!" She stuck her hoof into her mane and pulled out a single straw, "I call this straw Fernando." While she said it flamenco music played in the background. Svengallop only rolled his eyes while skeptically expressing his dissatisfaction. "Hm. Let us confirm that you acquired the rest of the items that Countess Coloratura requested before she performs her run-through, shall we?" "Ooh, we shall!" Bunga happily gestured to the cart to allow the pony to inspect the cart and take note of all the requests. The cart carried numerous items, from flowers, to gems to cherries in two separate bowls and a container filled with chocolate eclairs. "Floral arrangements from the royal Canterlot gardens... Chocolate éclairs made by Gustave le Grand... A selection of crystals from the Crystal Empire... Freshly picked cherries from Cherry Jubilee's farm separated red from yellow…" "Abso-toot-ly!" Pinkie happily confirmed. But even with every single requested item obtained, Svengallop did not show any signs of gratitude whatsoever as he approached his client. "Well, by some miracle, your requests have been reasonably met. So let us move on... to rehearsal!" With that, Svengallop led the Countess away from the group and towards the back of the stage, along with the backup dance ponies. "See, Applejack? Demanding!" Pinkie said to the others, which only worsen Applejack’s mood. Makini approached the group, not looking as excited as she did before. "Did you get that long awaited Hoofsie from the Countess?" Fuli asked looking on like nothing is new nowadays. “Yes but…” She honestly replied while presenting her current staff which now has a stamp on one of gourds. “...something about that didn’t feel quite right compared to actually getting an actual kiss.” “Oh, really.” Fuli raised an eyebrow without changing her expression. “Meaning that you didn't get the actual kiss?” Sunset asked with the same expression mirroring Fuli. “Oh yeah.” She moved to recall a particular moment when she asked Pinkie Pie of how a kiss works. “Oh, that’s easy!” Pinkie giggled. “First you pucker up your lips like this...“ Makini does exactly as Pinkie demonstrates. “...hold your chin up high…” She follows through in perfect sync. “...and then push forward!” The two ended up doing exactly that and ended up planting themselves lip to lip. “Whoa!” The two girls reeled back in shock once they realized they kissed each other by accident. “Oh...I’m sorry I didn’t think you were…” “Oopsie...I thought you just wanted the postures and gestures that you need to follow…” They both spoke each other. “So um anyways…” “Go ahead.” They said deciding after laughing about it for a good minute. “So there is that, and there is also…” She pulls out a dummy that she made out of turnips to which she took a moment to pause to add. “...this is just a demonstration. Don’t ask. Anyways, there’s the kiss on the forehead. “ She demonstrates it by doing it to a turnip. “...then there’s the blow kiss…” She blew a kiss right at Makini. “...and then there’s the kiss to the cheek.” She kisses the turnip on the side. “See. That’s all there is too it.” “Wow! That was so great to learn! Thanks!” Makini hugged the pink pony while they both avoided kissing each other again accidentally. “No problem! Well gotta run!” Pinkie plants another fat wet kiss on the young mandrill before running off. “Meep! Meep!” After recalling the memory, Fuli only had this to say. “Makes perfect sense.” "Couldn't have said it better myself." Sunset could only comment with nothing else to say either. “I know right!” She briefly stated while elated before calming down. “But still not exactly the same thing.” Fuli shook her head. “Nope.” "Not even close." Sunset added with shaking her head. Applejack's ears lowered in sadness with her mind still on the pony she briefly reunited with. "I can't believe this. The Rara I knew didn't hide behind a veil givin' out fake stamp kisses, sippin' up imported water, and needin' her cherries separated." Rarity placed a hand on her friend's shoulder out of sympathy, "Oh, I do understand. Sometimes it's hard to see our friends change." "She's become a whole other pony!" "Trust me. Once you see Countess Coloratura perform, you simply won't believe it!" Applejack only sighed in dismay despite her friends reassurance. But was still willing to hear her out since she is going out of her way to perform at the charity concert. Hopefully it is all still to her liking she thought to herself. From the backstage, Svengallop gathered the male dancers in position as the music began to play. Lights flashed on the stage, turning on and off as the silhouette of Countess Coloratura walked down the stairs on the stage, flipping her ponytail back and forth, all the while strutting and striking a pose with every step and flash of the lights. Smoke emitted from the side of the stage, making it hard to see her in the shadows. Her voice was heard, beautifully voiced, in perfect sync with the music, though it sounded a little off from her natural voice. “Time for the spectacle Time for the show The lights are bright and the colors glow I'm not just anypony I think you know The time is now, it's about to blow!” As she hit the high note, flames appeared by shooting from the side of the stage, followed by more smoke and flashing laser lights, powered by magic, appeared on the stage, further hiding the singer among the audience with the special effects in play. The dancer ponies appeared on stage, dancing to the music as the Countess continued to sing. “Razzle dazzle Glitz and glam Turn it all up, it's a spectacle Razzle dazzle Glitz and glam Turn it all up, it's a spectacle Give me more Razzle dazzle Glitter eyes, big surprise Lights, cameras.” One of the dancers, a unicorn, shot a beam from his horn, activating the vocal enhancement spell on the Countess, who began vocalizing with a stop in between as if she were some digital object. Razzle dazzle Glitz and glam Turn it all up, it's a spectacle Hear the applause Here to impress Not just a pony, I am the Countess! The singer stroked a pose once the song came to an end and all the flashing lights disappeared, along with the smoke. Nearly everybody in the park all applauded, except for Applejack, Kion, Twilight, Sunset, Fuli, and Kyoga, who were just downright jaw dropped by the performance. As spectacular as it was, it seemed more like a light and dance show with backup dancers rather than a pony singing for people. Even if they don’t understand music as well, it doesn’t take a keen sight from Kion and Fuli to understand that something is off with her music here. Applejack was the most horrified. This didn't sound like the Rara she knew back at Camp Friendship. Her voice and performance didn't sound nor look natural. "Rarity was right! I don't believe it!" She said to herself. “You can say that again.” Kion agreed. “Something is really off here.” “Very off.” Kyoga commented in agreement. “I may not know music, but I’m pretty sure that’s not true music.” Fuli added. “Even with some of our worst songs to date.” “Like what?” Sunset asked. “That depends…” She carefully replied. “...on what you think it is.” “Have we sang any bad songs?” Twilight asked the others who all can’t give a good response back. “I don’t know.” “It’s been a while.” “I’d have to pull a memory log.” “I can’t reckon we had one bad song we sang separately or all together.” “Anyways Applejack…” Twilight said getting back on the topic. “...I know what you mean and I think we may need to get a better look at her manager because for someone who’s been on the other side before, it takes one keen observation to know when somepony’s lying and is just putting forward a seemingly friendly facade.” To prove her point she directed the country pony towards said pony who is approaching the Countess with high praise after the backup singers moved backstage. "Oh, my shining star! Thanks to the sparkling costumes, dazzling choreography, and brilliant vocal effects that I designed, your performance was spectacular, Countess Coloratura!" "Oh, thank you, Svengallop!" the Countess said with a short laugh, actually taking in the compliment. Applejack could not believe what she was hearing and witnessing. How could she even consider the fact that this performance is perfectly fine when it was nothing more than a dance and light show with special effects.. She eyed the manager suspiciously before turning back to her friends. "Correct me if I'm wrong here, but that feller isn't actually complimentin' Rara. He's complimentin' all the bells and whistles he's piled on to make her Countess Coloratura." Rarity shook her head thinking otherwise. "Oh, no-no-no-no-no, you don't understand, Applejack. Creating all those elements is a lot of work, and Countess Coloratura's performance wouldn't exist without them." Applejack turned her back on Rarity as she walked ahead. "If you ask me, that wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing." “If only that wasn’t meant to draw our attention away from seeing and hearing the real deal.” Fuli added as she agreed. "Along with seeing for what really makes Rara shine as a real musican." Sunset also added in agreement. “You’re right about that.” Applejack nodded before moving to make her way towards the Countess alongside Kion in order to figure what the hay is really happening. Not convinced that she would change herself so much like this in this way. The Countess sighed while placing a hand over her forehead in a dramatic fashion, "Oh, if we're all done here, I'd love to go back to my trailer and rest, Svengallop." Bunga and Pinkie Pie appeared from behind the two and Pinkie read from the clipboard, "Actually, right now you're scheduled for your meet and greet with the school kids! We've also got some schoolponies from Ponyville who are your biggest fans!" The Countess smiled with a beam of energy inside of her hearing this while Svengallop scoffed in disgust in response. "Ugh. I can totally get you out of meeting with the school kids, Countess." Applejack narrowed her eyes at the pony while worrying of what she’ll say next. If she were to say no than imagine all of the sad and disappointed looks on the fillies faces. "Absolutely not." The Countess firmly stated in response. "My favorite part of any event is meeting with the children and the school ponies! Pride Landers or not, I will never say no to them!" Applejack smiled happily upon hearing that before approaching her with great pride at seeing the real Rara inside of her. "The school kids'll be so happy to hear that, Rara!" She then lead the way for her to be able to see the children. All while her manager looked on with narrowed eyes making sure to watch out for his client’s childhood best friend. Counter Coloratura gathered around the schoolchildren of the Ponyville schoolhouse where the Pride Landers were there all equally happy to greet her alongside the many ponies there. Everyone including the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Lion Guard fan club enjoyed the pony’s performance so much. Coloratura never looked happier to be with them right now. To her this is her first time meeting with the young Pride Landers, who her manager referred to as animals. In her eyes, they're not animals, they’re were the most adorable pride and joy their parents could ever ask for as she moved to hug and greet them. "Alright little ones, as part of the Helping Hooves Music Festival, I'm holding a contest where some of you will get a chance to sing with me onstage at the concert tomorrow! Sound fun?" The children, foals, and little animals all cheered happily at the news. The chance to be able to sing with her, a huge pop star was a dream come true to them and something that made Rara equally happy as them. Applejack smiled from afar, seeing her old friend interacting with the children with Kion, Sunset, and Fuli approaching by her side as they all got to see the sight themselves. “So far so good.” Kion commented with a smile. Applejack nodded her head in agreement. "Yep. Now that's more like the Rara I remember." “And that’s what’s important.” Fuli said approving of what she is seeing in front of her. At the same time, Bunga checked off most of the items off of the to-do list, including the Countess's meeting with the school kids when he suddenly heard a certain voice from nearby. "But… I got everything you requested!" Hiding behind a bush, Bunga spotted Pinkie Pie speaking with Coloratura's manager, Svengallop, who is not looking satisfied with her right now. "That was for Countess Coloratura! This is for me! And what I want is premium oats!" Pinkie Pie smiled in relief, "Oh! Well, we have lots of tasty oats right here from Ponyville!" She said, showing him a plate of oats she had in hoof. But in response he angrily swatted the plate away, making the oats land all over her mane and tail. "I would not feed those to a chicken! I want top-of-the-line Appleloosan oats! Next, it appears that we are surrounded by apple trees. Bring me five hundred pre-peeled, pre-cored apples, and I want those things in twenty-four hours!" Bunga gasped at the way this pony was treating his friend around as she could only gasp in response that ridiculous demand. "But that's impossible!" she stated. "Do you want me to pull Countess Coloratura from your little podunk charity show?! Because I will!" With that, Svengallop took his leave while leaving the hurt pink pony behind. Bunga came from out of hiding and Pinkie Pie moved to explain what just happened to him. "Bunga! Svengallop just made all of these new demands and he said—" "I heard, Pinkie. But don't you worry." "About what?" Twilight asked as she along with Kion, Applejack, Sunset, and Fuli appeared and approached them. "That mean manager pony guy is threatening to pull Countess Coloratura out of the charity if Pinkie Pie doesn't do what he wants." "What?" Kion exclaimed in anger, with his claws bared along with his gritted teeth. He flew up and managed to see where he is currently walking off to. “There you are!” "Let's get him!" Sunset furiously stated as she prepared to do her worst to that pony alongside Kion. “Whoa, there!” Twilight was quick to freeze both Kion and Sunset in place before he could throttle the guy. “I understand you’re both upset but I think we can deal with him without brute force.” “Twi’s right.” Applejack agreed. “I'll talk to Rara and fix things right up." Kion took in a deep breath, calming himself down before Twilight unfroze him. "Okay…fine. But he better not do that to Pinkie again or am I going to...!" “Kion!” Twilight placed a hoof on his chest before gesturing him to repeat at her by demonstrating the deep breathing exercise Cadance taught her. “Okay…okay." Kion did as he was told until he regained his cool as Sunset grunted in defeat as let her anger simmer down until Twilight unfroze her. “Let’s talk this out first. Then we decide of how to punish him.” Applejack moved to approach and talk to her old friend, who was just done speaking with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Apple Bloom ran towards her sister, hugging her and happily excited while doing so. "Did'ja see, sis?! Did'ja see?!" "Is this the little sister you wrote to me about, AJ?" Coloratura asked much to the younger sister’s shock. "Hold on, Applejack. You wrote to Countess Coloratura about me?!" "AJ said you were the best little sister ever, Apple Bloom!" The Crusaders stood there with wide popped eyes and dropped jaws. Apple Bloom was so shocked that Applejack had to wave a hoof in front of her face just to see if she would respond. She chuckled, "Alright now, you'd best get along, little ponies." The Crusaders smiled with glee as they waved goodbye to the Countess while Apple Bloom walked away backwards with glee at the revelation that she knew her own big sister personally. To her it was just too mind blowing to take in she couldn’t contain her excitement. Coloratura giggled at their reactions before Applejack moved to talk with her friend about why she is now here. "Uh… Hey, Rara, you mind if I talk to you about your manager?" "Sure, what about him?" "Well, while you were meetin' with the school kids, he was demandin' all sorts of stuff from Pinkie Pie." "Svengallop works very hard as my manager, AJ, so if he needs some things when we're on the road, I don't see anything wrong with that." "Well, do you see somethin' wrong with him tellin' Pinkie that if she doesn't get those things by tomorrow, he'd pull you from our charity festival?" The Countess reacted with complete shock hearing this. "What? But he knows how important charity is to me, and leaving the festival would completely ruin my image!" "I'm afraid Svengallop doesn't give a pickled pippin about your charity work." "That's not true!" Coloratura stated, rather angrily at the very claim, considering that he helped her become a successful rockstar in the first place. "Svengallop has always supported me in all my interests. You're just saying those things because you're jealous!" "Jealous of what? A pony who hides behind a veil so thick she can't see when somepony's usin' her? No, I'm not jealous of that, Rara!" "I am not Rara! I am Countess Coloratura! And while we may have been friends when we were young, we have clearly gone in different directions!" With a flip of her mane, Countess Coloratura walked off in a huff, leaving a very disappointed Applejack behind. Sometime later, when the Countess was in her private trailer, she was still stewing over what Applejack said about her manager. She vainly refused to think that for even one second that the one pony who’s actions led to her rising to becoming one of the best rockstar’s in Equestria is actually not the nicest pony to get acquainted with. She refuses to see that is even possible. If only she could open her eyes more then she would understand the truth her childhood friend is trying to tell her. She did try but she wasn’t having any of it and she pushed her away. At the same time she couldn’t help but wonder if she was too harsh to blow her off like that and that she may have been onto something here. After all, Applejack has never lied to her about anything. Sure she can be a little cutthroat when it comes to honesty but she her words are always honest and straight to the point. “The nerve of those nagging voices in your head, huh?” Twilight’s voice spoke to her. “Tell me about it.” Rara replied irritably before taking an extra second to realize that’s not an inside voice when she quickly turned around and saw the alicorn alongside the lion alicorn standing by her side. “Hi there.” She casually greeted to the pop star who jumped up onto her chair completely startled by the sudden greeting. “What...How...How did you...why is he?” She asked completely baffled from their sudden appearance to Kion, a lion with wings and a horn just like Twilight. “Are you planning on finishing any of these questions in your sentences?” Sunset asked with an amused smirk. “How did you get in here? And why does a lion have wings and a horn?” “For starters…” She pointed to the tip of their horns. “...we’re alicorns with Kion here being half alicorn while half alicorn along with Sunset being a unicorn herself.” She gestured to both Kion and Sunset while she was at it. “Right.” “And second and most importantly, in answer to your question what and why we are here, well it’s quite simple. To help solve a friendship problem and who better to do it than the Princess and Prince of Friendship.” “Well...other than Applejack, no one else.” Rara softly replied solemnly. “You know that was a rhetorical question, right?” Kion asked. “Yes.” She said not taking her eyes off of the floor as she dragged a hoof on the steel metal on the ground in her trailer. “And I know exactly why you are both here. Because of my rift with Applejack not too long ago.” “Yep.” It didn’t take a second thought for them to give them simple honest reply like Bic Mac would do if he were here. “And I’m sure she told you of what happened?” “Yep.” “And you’re now here to tell me off? I won’t hold anything against you both if you do.” “No.” Much to Rara’s surprise. “No?” “No.” “But why?” “Because even still you don’t deserve it.” Twilight replied with sincerity. “But Applejack was the only friend I truly had back when were in summer camp the first pony that gave me a nickname that defined who I am. And when she was just trying to tell me something, I pushed her away.” “It’s not your fault.” Sunset assured. “You were just upset and not seeing things clearly is all.” “But how can you even say that?!” Rara asked finding that statement incredulous. “It’s not like you did anything like that before!” “Actually we have.” Kion said otherwise. “Many, many times.” “Including me.” Twilight added. “And believe me I know what that’s like.” Rara still looked on confused. “Coming from the former Princess of Darkness who spent months away from Equestria and working her way back into everypony and Pride Lander’s good graces after betraying every one of my friends. It could have been worse in your case.” "And while I may not have done anything worse than Twilight nor ran away from home for so long, there have been many, many, many times I have let my anger get the better of me even to this very day." Sunset further explained. "More than I wish to think on, actually. But the point being, one argument doesn't mean it's the end of the world." “Yeah.” Kion agreed. “Even after all of that especially to me, I still forgave her because that’s what friends do. And I think that’s what you can do with Applejack.” “And yes she might be stubborn at times but deep down she is an honest pony who wants nothing more than the best interests for her friends.” Twilight added. “And by that I mean she is honest about every word she says.” “Even about Svengallop?” “Even about Svengallop.” She removed the veil as she found herself face to face with Twilight as she moved to speak eye to eye with her with her other free front hoof placed on her shoulder. “Like with Scar, it takes keen eye and clear observation to know exactly what kind of pony you’re dealing with. Just because he may claim to have your best interests at heart, doesn’t mean your manager is as benevolent as he claims to be.” “But...but...how can I see that after everything he has done for me?!” Rara cried out still in denial at the idea. “How can he even be a crooked and selfish man who doesn’t care about me at all when he’s been helping with my success from the very beginning?!” “I know this is something you don’t want to hear but I’m afraid Svengallop might not be telling you the whole truth and keeping whatever his true self is behind the curtains.” Kion calmly explained. “And that’s because you never got a chance to properly see that for yourself.” “And if you’re willing to hear us out…” Sunset added as an offer like approach. “...we can help you out with that.” “How?” She asked feeling very uncertain about how they plan to do so. “Just listen carefully with what about to tell you…” Twilight told her as both she and Kion were open ears for what she had in mind... The next morning, Applejack spun the machine around in order to peal the apples that Svengallop had requested. But she was hardly focusing on the task and more so on her friend. "It just ain't right! He's manipulatin' her, and she's just not seein' it!" "Enough stewin', more peeling'!" Pinkie exclaimed, her mane and tail already covered in apple cords, and apple slices, having peeled so many apples alongside Bunga who too assisted as well. Like Pinkie he too was already feeling worked to death as he wiped away the sweat from his forehead. “Ugh. So many apples. I feel like I just run a marathon.” He commented as he literally was riding an apple peeler like a bike just to help keep pace with helping get the job done. But Applejack was not about to let this all slide. She had to talk to Rara about this, even if she wouldn't hear her out. Someway somehow she was determined to put an end this corrupt management she’s following without realizing it. "Sorry, fellas, but there is no way I'm lettin' that lousy Svengallop use my friend like that!" with that, Applejack ran off to go find her old friend, leaving poor Bunga and Pinkie Pie to groan at the remaining apples they still had left to peal. "Countess Coloratura!" Applejack called out to the singer, who was on stage talking with her backup dancers. "Wow, AJ, you said my real name." She said delighted to see her again even after what happened earlier. “And you came back.” "Yes I did. And I said your new name, but I saw the real you hangin' out with those school kids yesterday. And I know somepony that'd prefer if you stop doin' those little events." “Right him.” The countess returned still not too pleased to bring up the subject again. “And I know a pair of friends of yours that were just telling me the same thing. You know, the one’s that have horns and wings.” Applejack didn’t even deny it nor even asked for them to talk to her on her behalf. “Yep, that’s them all right. The Prince and Princess of Friendship always looking out for everyone’s best interests at heart even without being asked. And I’m sure they told you to give me a chance to prove what I'm sayin' is true." "And just how are you going to do that?" "Do exactly what I say. We'll see if that Svengallop truly has your best interests at heart." Countess Coloratura still wasn't sure about this. But, after the talk with Twilight and Kion, she was more than willing now to give her a chance and was willing to hear her out. "Svengallop? Svengallop! Where are you, Svengallop?" She later called out for him, who appeared right beside her by leaping up onto the stage. "Here I am! Did you need something?" "Yes, I was... considering…" She hesitated with her words at first before speaking what she planned to say from the start. "..m-maybe canceling the contest with the school kids..?" Svengallop smiled in delight about hearing those words. "Countess, this is wonderful! I've been waiting forever for you to cancel that pointless human school kids contest." "You… have?" She asked feeling rather hurt that he would be so happy for her to want to give up one of her passions she loves doing. "You do it at every charity event, and it does absolutely nothing to promote the Countess Coloratura image that I built! Consider it canceled. Pinkie Pie!" The overly exhausted pony appeared up from behind, coughing apple cords from her throat, with her hair and mane a complete mess. "Yes, Svengallop, sir!" She said, looking like she was going to pass out. "We are making some adjustments to the show. Follow me!" While he led Pinkie away from the singer, she turned her head to Applejack, who gave her a salute before waving to Twilight Sparkle and Sunset, with the former hovering above Svengallop and Pinkie Pie while the later disappeared and reappeared into the nearby bushes, both of their horns twinkling as they watched the events unfold unnoticed. "Cancel the contest for the animal kids and schedule me a spa treatment." Svengallop harshly ordered of her. "Now that I don't have to oversee a rehearsal with those brats, I have time for the works! You know the drill! Deliver, or the diva ditches your dippy charity!" Adjusting his tie, he walked away from the frightened pony before calmly coming back to his client, acting as if nothing had happened. "Okay, Countess Coloratura, all taken care of!" "You know the drill! Deliver, or the diva ditches your dippy charity!" Svengallop's eyes widened in horror when he heard the exact same words he said only seconds ago, amplified and replayed for all to see, courtesy of Twilight and Sunset's magic, projecting a screen and a recording of the events. He could only look on in horror upon seeing the anger in the singer's eyes knowing that he has just been exposed to everyone for who he truly is. "So that's how you've been managing things?" "Yeah, so? What's the problem?" Svengallop replied not even denying what happened. Not that he could lie if he wanted to. "The problem is, is you've been using my name to intimidate ponies to get what you want!" "But I work incredibly hard for you! I deserve everything I get!" "But not because you scare others into thinking I won't perform for their charities otherwise! I would never do that to my fans! Which is why you should have known that I would never cancel the school kids' contest!" "Hmph. All this charity and school kid contest nonsense is just remnants of that boring little Rara I met back in Manehattan! And now you want to carry that on with these disgusting, filthy flea bag carrying animals! Don't forget, I made you somepony! I gave you the cloths, the name, the voice, everything!" "No! You clearly don't understand the real me!" She retorted in righteous anger while finally removing the dark veil that she had over her eyes. In more ways than one. "Ha, that's a joke!” The sleazy manager scoffed. “What can you even do without me? Good luck, Countess Coloratura! Good luck." With his nose held up high in the air, the stallion marched off of the stage with a sense of smug victorious satisfaction feeling he achieved a constellation prize out of it, but others were not finished with him yet. Bunga eager to get back at him made him trip with his foot while having his paws behind his back to pretend it was an accident. “Ow!” “Oopsie. Sorry. Guess you should have watched your step.” He mockingly said to his face before spraying his face with his gas. “And that was for mistreating Pinkie Pie.” Svengallop gagged and coughed as he found his mane messed up and body reeking with his awful stench like he’s been attacked by a skunk. “Aw, man! P.U.! And I thought skunks were smeller!” “They are!” Bunga crossed his arms and proudly turned his back on him. “Why you little…?” He moved to stand to confront him and strangle him only to find himself face to face with Kion who was returning an aggressive look right at him along with a smirking Sunset eager to get revenge . “Why you big…” Kion snarled while forcing the pony to back up. The former sleazebag could only nervously laugh in the face of the young lion and half alicorn who is ready to tear him apart for mistreating his friends. “Now, now. Nice kitty.” That only further enraged Kion as he prepared to use the Roar of the Elders on him with righteous fury. "Oh, big mistake." Sunset smugly remarked knowing exactly what is going to happen next. "Oh and before you go..." Sunset quickly lifted the pony up the air and then delivered the hardest punch she could deliver to send the pony flying. Once the pony was up flying across Ponyville, Kion unleashed the Roar to send him flying away from Ponyville all the way back to Manehattan where he found himself hurling face to face with a giant bell on top of the city’s clock tower. “NO! AAH!” He screamed before smacking the bell face first and then dropped below it. And if that wasn’t bad enough for him, the bell loosen upon impact which broke off and landed right on top of him. The Pride Landers and ponies all cheered in delight to see that onscreen courtesy of Twilight’s magic as the pony passed out from his injuries as he emerged his head outside of bell. While the audience was cheering, Thurston came waltzing amongst the crowd curious of what just happened while he was away with a couple of corn dogs in his mouth. “What did I miss?” At least now, Rara felt assured deep down that with Svengallop no longer around to dictate her life, she is free and felt confident about running her own concert the way she wants to… ...at least until she started to panic while getting prepared for her big night in her dressing room. She was just getting into her new outfit and getup with Rarity and Ono ’s assistance. He hair was let down for a more natural curly flow with an assortment of gems decorated across her black and dark blue mane and tail. She wore a blue bird styled outfit with a feather piece holding up her tail, with jeweled feathers on her eyebrows, and dark blue jeweled boots. This was her very first concert in years, without her manager. She was now worried of what fans will think of her music, what they will think when they see her new appearance. She doesn’t have her usual visual effects to help disguise her voice. Now she has cold hooves that make it clear to herself that she can’t go through with this. "Oh, my gosh, you guys, Svengallop's right! This is gonna be a disaster! I'm gonna be terrible!" the poor pony began pacing back and forth in a frenzy, preventing Rarity from placing the headpiece on her head. “Could you at least stand still for five seconds…” Ono pleaded of the frantically panicking unicorn as Rarity can’t place the headpiece on her head. It was there when Applejack approached them. "Can you guys give us a minute?" "Certainly." Rarity agreed with a nod before she and Ono left to allow her to speak to her childhood friend heart to heart. "Now, why's it gonna be so terrible?" Applejack calmly asked. "Because Svengallop was in charge of everything! The lights, the visuals, the sound! I haven't even sang without the vocal spell in so long, I wouldn't even know if I can still sing. Without Svengallop, I have nothing!" "Now, now, don't go gettin' yourself into a tizzy there, Rara." She assured while wrapping her arm around her friend, she led her back to her mirror and gently sat her back down on the stool. "Svengallop turned you into Countess Coloratura and acted like your friend so he could enjoy the perks that came with bein' a star. But the real perk of friendship is gettin' to see your friend bein' true to their self. And Rara, when you're simply yourself, you're the brightest star I've ever seen shine." Rara took a good look at herself at her own reflection in the mirror, taking in her friend's words. Words that former manager had never said to her before. Words that actually helped her see of what’s truly important in life. Now is her best chance to show her the real pony beneath her veil she wore for so long, the pony that sang her first song with such inspiration that truly jump-started her dream career. The rainbow shimmering courage that drew through her mane as her cutie mark glowed. Later that night, the crowd gathered at the park ready to see the long anticipated show. Lights decorating the area to illuminate the stage to give the primary star of the show a dazzling appearance. Ponies and Pride Landers alike sat together, ready for the show while the Lion and Pony Guard got front row seats. The elephants assisting with the lighting shot a spotlight onto the stage as Princess Twilight stepped forward for the opening announcement, causing everyone to burst into a roar of applauds on par to when she helped procure them water to help them through the dry season in the Pride Lands. Once the crowd had settled Twilight Sparkle addressed to the crowd. "Good evening, everybody! Welcome to opening night of the Helping Hooves Music Festival! Now it is my great honor to introduce you to our headlining act – Countess Coloratura!" The crowd cheered loudly, all excited and anxious to see the legendary pop start perform. But, once the curtain rose up, she didn't look anything like she did in her albums and posters nor did she wear the clothes nor have any backup dancers behind her. She wore a simple slim black gown with transparent skirt and a silver necklace around her neck. Her hair was styled with a soft bang brushed to the left side, and her was styled to the way it was just when she was a filly, along with her tail. A fitting and natural appearance that made her look She looked all natural, which made her all the more beautiful. In front of her, rested a beautiful black piano. "This song may be familiar, but yet, it's totally different. Kind of like me, Rara." The audience exchanged looks of confusion and muttered with one another wondering what she is planning to do instead. Regardless, Rara proceeded to sit on a stool and played on the piano. She began playing a soft musical tone that was calm and soothing and was well heard around the park. Nothing but simple ordinary music all played by herself. The way true music can be played. After a several seconds of playing notes she worked the courage to start singing on her very own accord. “I'm here to show you who I am Threw off the veil, it's finally time There's more to me than glitz and glam, oh-whoa And now I feel my stars align.” So far she is off to a great start. She sounded beautifully and it is definitely nobody could have ever believed nor hear what they are seeing since this is the first time she is actually singing on her own accord since she was a filly. Slowly and progressively, her voice grew stronger and stronger, with much more confidence, and grew as warm as her heart all while the unicorns in the audience lit up their horns to illuminate the stage for her song. “For I had believed what I was sold I did all the things that I was told But all that has changed, and now I'm bold 'Cause I know.” From behind her, Makini along with an orchestra of galoagoes played on several instruments for the pony's song. That I am just a pony I make mistakes from time to time But now I know the real me And put my heart out on the line And let the magic in my heart stay true Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa And let the magic in my heart stay true Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa Just like the magic inside of you.” The Cutie Mark Crusaders smiled hearing the lyrics of the song like it was the best singing they have heard, and even better than before. “And now I see those colors Right before my eyes I hear my voice so clearly And I know that it is right They thought I was weak, but I am strong They sold me the world, but they were wrong And now that I'm back, I still belong 'Cause I know” From her cheek, her cutie mark shimmered and sparkled just like it did when she was young and sang on her own. Singing that came from the love of all of her heart. Among the audience, Applejack, Sunset, Fuli, and Kyoga cried happy tears while the others cheered for Rara, the audience bursting into roaring applause. Even Rara herself cried tears of joy having never sang her passion like this at all before. She never realized until now how much she had truly missed her voice. “That I am just a pony I make mistakes from time to time But now I know the real me And put my heart out on the line And let the magic in my heart stay true Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa And let the magic in my heart stay true Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa Just like the magic inside of you Just like the magic inside of you...” As the song came to a close, Makini and the galoagoes stopped playing the instruments, the audience stood up from their seats, clapping and cheering as loudly as they can. That was the most beautiful song they had ever heard and the most incredible performance they had ever seen. Rara took the microphone, stepping a few feet further onto the stage to speak to everyone. "Thank you, everybody! When I arrived at the Helping Hooves Music Festival, I had forgotten who I really was! But then an old friend reminded me what real friendship is about." Her eyes locked upon a certain country pony, who smiled in return. "And she told me that if I was true to myself, I couldn't go wrong! So I have a very special surprise for her. All the children that have attended the festival, come on up!" Each and every child that was there happily ran up to the stage, including the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the Lion Guard fan club. They all stood beside the singer, while the Crusaders stood closest to her. The galogoess played their instruments once more as an equestrian and Pride Lands flag fell gently from above as a familiar song was sang by Rara and the children. “Equestria, the land I love A land of harmony Our flag does wave from high above For ponykind to see.” Rara extended her hand for Applejack to come up and join her on stage, to which she happily complied without a word. The two friends stood together while singing with all of the children, together in perfect harmony. “Equestria, a land of friends Where ponykind do roam They say true friendship never ends Equestria, my home.” As the audience cheered once more, Sweetie Belle levitated a triangle for Applejack to ting which she did, just like she and Rara did long ago back at Camp Friendship. After the event, friends and family gathered together to enjoy snacks and games, and to talk about Rara’s stunningly remarkable performance. The pony received so many compliments from new fans, old and new, now a truly rising star in both worlds now. While talking and catching up with Applejack, Sunset, Fuli and Kion moved to commend her for her performance. “Congratulations, Rara.” Kion complimented. “Thank you, Kion.” "Great song!" Sunset also complimented. "Thank you, Sunset. For everything." "You're welcome. It just takes one pony who sees eye to eye to help one pony out." "It sure does." “You were a natural out there.” Fuli added with a proud smile. “You remind me of myself when I was a young cheetah.” “Really?” “Oh yeah. The singing, the lost childhood friends, and the passion of embracing friendship into your true talents right down to the tee.” “Thanks, but if weren’t for the Prince and Princess giving me that much needed talk to move me into talking to Applejack again, I’d probably still be letting Svengallop ride me like a horse. No pun intended.” Her friends stifled a chuckle before Kion moved to speak next. ”Well it’s a good thing to have an honest friend having your back, even after so many years apart.” “It sure is.” “You’re darn tooting it is.” Rara turned to her childhood friend with something she really needs to say. “And I can’t thank you enough for everything since we reunited, Applejack. I know we may not see each better as often as when we were fillies but I want to you that you still have a special place in my heart as one of my best friends. A best friend who is sorry for getting mad at you when you were trying to tell me the truth I should have been wiser to a lot sooner than expected.” “Aw, don’t fret it, Rara. It could have happened to any pony, even Twilight.” “Right, of course.” She giggled. “Speaking of any pony…” She then said to Kion. “...where exactly did you send my former manager, anyway? Do I have to worry about him taking advantage of me or any other talented musician in the future?” Kion smiled in assurance to assert that’s the case. “I’m sure you wouldn’t. And in regards to where he is now thanks to my Roar, he is now answering his true calling as a manager. Somewhere that should ring some bells…” He smirked as he now has a good idea where he is now... ...currrently in between the ringing bells of the big clock in Manehattan as it is now midnight there. “Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow.” After the clock was done ringing its bells, Svengallop collapsed to the ground before finding himself arrested by the cops as they held a videotape and a disc which contained the recorded confession of him abusing Pinkie Pie on it. Instead of being dragged away, he was instead cuffed to the poles that had him positioned in between the bells to where they found him. “Oh come on guys…” He pleaded as they watched over him with coffee and donuts in tow. “...this is so unprofessional. You can’t leave me like this.” “You’re right we can’t.” “But we can throw you behind bars for what you did as the former Countess’s manager. And by the looks of this here evidence, we got multiple charges against you that we can and will use against you in the court of law.” “So, feel free to take your pick because either way it’s going to hurt like haystones in the hottest part of the farm.” Svengallop could only groan in frustrated defeated before sitting down awaiting for the bells to chime once more as his only other option is a long time in prison.