//------------------------------// // Episode 24: The Mane Attraction // Story: My Little Pony Mystic Season 1 // by Shadow Master //------------------------------// Near to Apple Farm, Ponyville Town Ponies were setting the dome stage up for the important event - the charity event. They were led and managed by Applejack. The dome stage were filled with props such as apple-shaped trees-like, steps, speakers, light props, colorful rainbow banners. Twilight Sparkle and Apple Bloom have arrived as she was filled with shock yet amazed by it. "Wow, Applejack!" Twilight Sparkle exclaimed in amazement as she approached Applejack, "Are you sure you've never managed a concert before?" Applejack blushed, "Well, it turns out doin' up a concert's the same as settin' up a rodeo." Twilight Sparkle nodded, "And thanks to Pinkie's connections organizing the Ponypalooza Rock Concert, we've got quite a lineup for the Helping Hooves Music Festival." "And don't forget about us," The firm voice called. Both Twilight Sparkle and Applejack turned and found Saber Dragoon, Dragonspear and the iron masked brownish muscular yet fierce and wild humanoid twin-horned winged dragon with a rhino's horn-like approached them as well. Western Dragon soldiers and workers helped the Ponyville Town Ponies in setting up. "My father did send me and some ponies to help you handling the charity events," Saber Dragoon said calmly, "And father sends regards and luck for it." Dragonspear nodded in agreement, "Our lord enjoys helping innocent ponies especially poverty and poor. He'll be here by tomorrow. He wished to see the charity event with his own eyes." The dragon growled, "I... Help... Virtue Dragon! Help... ponies... For charity..." "Thanks, Saber and Dragonspear. " Applejack said calmly while looking at the humanoid dragon, "Though I don't understand why he's the only dragon doesn't speak well. He almost reminds of Grunt." Saber chuckled in amusement, "That's Gutsy's way. He never been good at education especially writing. But there's one thing he's good at - war and strategy." "Loyal... To... Our Lord!" Gutsy exclaimed proudly. Dragonspear smiled as he patted Gutsy's back, "Sure, you are. We all are to our friends especially this princess." Apple Bloom bounced happily, "I can't wait for it especially I wanna be part of concert! I wonder who will be coming here." Applejack shrugged, "Who knows, Apple Bloom, I'm just glad that we have all the help we need to get it ready for charity. Whoever is coming here, she really does care for the fillies and donates the charity a lot." "Everypony!" The familiar voice called. Twilight and all of her friends including Spike, Saber Dragoon, Dragonspear and Gutsy turned to the entrance where Pinkie Pie charged into the area. She breathed heavily yet happily before she said happily at once, "I have the most amazing news ever! It is totally gonna freak your frizz!" Pinkie Pie sighed in relief, "It wasn't easy. In fact, it was terribly difficult. But I have managed to book the biggest pony pop star in all of Equestria as the main attraction of the Helping Hooves Music Festival!" "Sapphire Shores?" Applejack asked. "Sapphire Shores?! Please!" Pinkie Pie hissed in annoyance, "Sapphire Shores is merely the second biggest pony pop star in Equestria. I have booked the one, the only, Countess Coloratura!" Ponies awed in surprise and amazement of what they just heard. Saber Dragoon, Dragonspear and Gutsy growled in annoyance upon hearing that name like they both met her before. And even Western Dragon soldiers and workers muttered and chatted in anger and annoyance about her. "Who in the hay is Countess Coloratura?" Applejack asked in confusion. The ponies gasped in shock and surprise of what Applejack had said, even Pinkie Pie whose mane and tail went up yet fuzzy and hairy literally. She never heard of Countess Coloratura?! "My frizz has been freaked!" Pinkie Pie remarked in shock. She then quickly combed her mane and tail down into her normal funky style. She then approached Applejack as she demanded in shock and concern, "How-how-how-how-how have you not heard of her?! She's the biggest pony pop star in Equestria!" "Don't know. Though I did know a gal named Coloratura when I was just a filly." Applejack admitted. She then laughed and snorted a bit, "Wouldn't it just be the funniest thing if that Coloratura and this Coloratura were the same Coloratura? Heh." "Do you mean to tell me that you actually know Countess Coloratura?" Apple Bloom asked in shock. "Well, I don't think it's the same pony, since my friend wasn't any sort of high-falutin' countess." "Do ya remember her cutie mark?" Applejack smiled, "Sure do. It had this super colorful bunch of musical notes that just shimmered in the light." "No way..." Apple Bloom said in shock and surprise, "Applejack! Your friend and the superstar are really the same pony! They really are Countess Coloratura! Or she is. I confused." "What?! That's impossible! No way!" "Actually..." Pinkie Pie said nervously while rubbing her head. She gave the picture of this mysterious Countess Coloratura's Cutie Mark to Applejack, "Apple Bloom's right about that one." Applejack gasped in shock of what she just saw, "Well, fancy that! That there's the very same cutie mark!" "Do you have any idea the number of hoops I had to jump through to get her to perform at the festival?!" Pinkie Pie demanded in upset, "A whole lot of hoops! That pony is very demanding!" "Nah." "Yah!" "Pinkie Pie's right," Saber Dragoon said firmly, "That pony is very demanding! And we're leaving at once! Good luck with that, ponies!" "WHAT?!" Everyone asked in shock. "If that spoiled mare is coming here, we will not be part of it!" Dragonspear said angrily, "Not after what she has done to us especially our lord and our ponies! She and her manager pressured our ponies to complete her outrageous demands and tasks for one day!" Gutsy roared in anger, "Coloratura... Demands... Our foods... Our treasures... Our souvenirs... Mistreat... Us... Bad... Insult... Lord Virtue... DRAGON!" "She did?!" Everyone asked in shock. Apple Bloom shook her head, "That can't be right! Countess Coloratura maybe a bit of demanding, but she's not a bad pony. She's a good one. She did lots of charity especially having fun and contest with the fillies like me." "Don't let her reputation fool you," Dragonspear warned firmly. Saber Dragoon nodded, "Believe me. I told her off about her demands, and the next; she told me and my father off! So, we banished her from ever set her hooves or her behavior to our land again." "That's a bit of harsh there, ain't it?" Apple Bloom said in concern. Applejack sighed as she patted Apple Bloom's mane, "This was clearly some sort of misunderstandin', 'cause Rara was just as down home as me!" "Rara?!" Everyone asked in shock and surprise. Applejack smiled and nodded in confirmation, "Even that big name was too fancy for her, so I shortened Coloratura to 'Rara'!" Flashback: Nine years ago... Applejack and her childhood friend - Rara who is an aquamarineish gray colored Earth Pony with twisted-like dark grayish indigo-dark indigo colored mix mane and tail with a stripe of moderate opal color, were having some fun and time together at Camp Friendship such as playing tug-of-war, swimming together and even singing the song together. "We had the best time at Camp Friendship!" Applejack narrated, "Rara was just so easygoin'! We were like two apples from the same branch." At the stage, both Applejack and Rara were themselves for the song. Applejack was playing her guitar while Rara prepared herself to sing. Camp Advisors were watching the event while the camper foals were busy with their own stuffs such as chatting, reading comic, eating popcorn and even playing cards. Applejack narrated, "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!" Young Rara: Equestria, the land I love A land of harmony Our flag does wave from high above For ponykind to see Upon hearing her beautifully and harmonically voice, camper foals stopped their activities as they turned their attention to Rara. They were all shocked and surprised to hear it. As Rara continued singing, her Cutie Mark glowed brightly in pure golden. Applejack was shocked and surprised by it. Young Rara: Equestria, a land of friends Where ponykind do roam They say true friendship never ends Equestria, my home With the sound of triangle played by Applejack, the music ends. The campers chatted and cheered happily for Rara being the best singer. Both Rara and Applejack hugged each other happily while sobbed with tears of joy. "After camp, we wrote to each other for a bit, but... then we lost touch." Flashback Ends... Apple Bloom awed in amazement, "That's amazing..." "Rara always did want to go to Manehattan to try and make it big." Applejack said happily. She gave frown yet concerned face, "But a demandin' diva? Saber, are you serious?" "Do I look like I'm joking?" Saber Dragoon said in annoyance. He sighed, "Whatever happens between you and that spoiled mare is long gone. And believe me, Applejack, she's not the same pony you used to know." Dragonspear nodded in agreement, "Indeed. Not after what she had done to our home, it's wise that you don't trust her." "Beat... Her... Up!" Gutsy exclaimed in anger. Applejack groaned in annoyance, "Just you wait, ya'all. Once Rara gets here, you'll see she's just a plain old pony like you and me." Pinkie Pie gasped like something surprised, "I don't have to wait – she's here!" Ponies were surprised and shocked of what Pinkie Pie had say. She pointed at the entrance. They looked at her direction. They saw a giant golden diamond-like carried by four dancers by their backs holding its poles. The visitors were heading to their direction. As the dancers stopped, the giant diamond transformed into a giant golden throne chair-like with speakers as handlers where the mysterious pony was sleeping. As she got up, she walked down the steps. She worn make up with thicker eyelashes as well as wearing long whitish ponytail with purplish stripe mane and tail wig. She was dressed with the purple jacket while wearing the diamond bracelets by her neck and hoof. Countess Coloratura or Rara has arrived? The Ponyville Town Ponies awed and cheered excitedly and happily while Western Dragon Kingdom Ponies grunted and groaned angrily about Rara's arrival. "Rara?" Applejack asked in shock and concern. Pinkie Pie squealed happily, "Countess Coloratura!" "Clear the way! Stand back! Keep your hooves and tail to yourselves!" The angry voice demanded. As the ponies moved aside, Pinkie Pie stayed still while looking very happy and excited. Svengallop the white Earth Pony with light short brownish funky and tail worn the manager suit knocked Pinkie to the ground while moving to the front. Countess Coloratura and her dancers followed him to the stage while not watching where they're stepping... Apple Bloom squealed happily, "I can't believe she's here! Your best friend is here - Rara as the Countess Coloratura! She's finally here!" "No... that can't be her." Applejack said in concern. She and Apple Bloom approached Rara from behind as she cleared throat, "Um... hi. Remember me? We met at Camp Friendship? I gave you the nickname 'Rara'?" Countess Coloratura gasped in surprise like the words hit hers. She turned to Applejack with surprise looks. "AJ?" Rara asked in surprise. Applejack smiled happily while nodded happily. She gasped upon looking at Apple Bloom, "This must be your little sister you wrote to me about. Apple Bloom, we finally meet!" Apple Bloom gasped, "She knows me! Applejack, you wrote to Countess Coloratura about me?!" Rara nodded happily, "AJ said you were the best little sister ever, Apple Bloom!" Applejack smiled happily to see Rara actually remembers both her and her letter. And just before Rara could do anything, Svengallop whispered to her. She sighed and nodded in agreement. She gave 'Kiss' stamp on both Applejack and Apple Bloom. Rara smiled, "Hoofsies!" As Rara turned and approached to her other fans, both Applejack and Apple Bloom were in stunned and surprised. Rarity approached the Apple Sisters. "Ooh, you got hoofsies from Countess Coloratura! Look! Ooh, she clearly thinks you're very special!" Rarity commented happily. Apple Bloom squealed while bounced happily, "I know! Countess Coloratura gave me her hoofsies! I always want that! Thanks, AJ, for being her best friend! I can ask her, sing with her and talk with her about everything especially about you!" Applejack hummed in concern yet suspiciously. She looked at Rara giving some hoofsies to her fans. She can't help that Saber Dragoon and his officers were telling the truth about her especially about her manager - Svengallop. As the dancer stopped ponies from approached Rara, she and Svengallop have their own private chats. "Now that's how you make an entrance! Big, bold, absolutely stunning!" Svengallop commented proudly. He grunted a bit, "Though it was muddied a bit with your interaction with that dusty farmpony. Do you actually know her?" Rara nodded, "Oh, yeah, that's my childhood fillyfriend AJ! She was the one that started calling me Rara." "Oh, yes, how cute and... common." Svengallop remarked in annoyance, "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! And if I were you, I watch out for her." "Why?" "Remember the incident from Western Dragon Kingdom?" Rara got shocked yet concerned about the incident being reminded, "It's something I want to forget it. What does it have to do with Applejack?" "That," Svengallop said in annoyance as he pointed at Applejack and Apple Bloom were discussing with Saber Dragoon, Dragonspear and Gutsy about something. He huffed in annoyance, "She seems to be friend with those filth. And no doubt those ponies will tell your friends about the incident, she will ignore and abandon you, Countess Coloratura." "No. She wouldn't. AJ wouldn't do such a thing to me," Rara said in concern, "She wouldn't..." Svengallop sighed as he shown little concern and sympathy, "I'm sorry, Coloratura. She may against you or even me. Just watch out for her and her 'so-called' friends." Rara hummed, "I hope you're wrong about this." "Speaking of watch out, where is the pony Pinkie Pie?" Svengallop called in annoyance. Pinkie Pie approached Svengallop, along with her wagon, "Ooh! I'm the pony Pinkie Pie, Mr. Manager, sir!" "Do you have the water imported from Rainbow Falls that I requested for Countess Coloratura?" "I have twenty glass containers full right here!" "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!" Svengallop hummed as he looked and inspected the items from the wagon, "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..." Svengallop sighed as he approached Countess Coloratura, "Well, by some miracle, your requests have been reasonably met. So let us move on... to rehearsal!" Rara sighed as she nodded in agreement. Both her and Svengallop headed off at once. Applejack witnessed everything. She was in shock and concern of it. "You were right, Saber. The Rara I knew didn't hide behind a veil givin' out fake stamp kisses, sippin' up imported water, and needin' her cherries separated." Saber Dragoon nodded, "Like I said, Applejack - whatever happens between you and her is long gone. I know it's hard to see our friends change." Applejack hummed, "She's become a whole other pony!" "Come on, sis. Don't get upset by her changes. Just be happy that you finally get to see her," Apple Bloom said happily, "Besides, you should Countess Coloratura moves! You won't believe it!" "I... hate... her songs!" Gutsy exclaimed in anger. "And so are we," Dragonspear remarked dryly, "I wouldn't waste my time with her if I were you. We should get moving. We're going home." Applejack sighed, "Come on, ya'all. Don't be like that. She's not what you think she is. I know there's some Rara inside her. Believe me. Just give her a chance. I'll prove it." Saber Dragoon sighed, "Fine. Don't make me regret this." Apple Bloom giggled, "Trust us. You won't." On the stage, Svengallop gathered, led and coordinated the dancers to their position. Dancers on both sides of stage while Rara on top of the steps. With everyone in their positions, he gave the signal to others to begin their rehearsal. As the lights blinked and smokes burst out, Rara began climbing down the steps as she was shaking her mane and singing in pop style. Rara: Time for the spectacle Time for the show The lights are bright and the colors glow As Rara reached down, she gave her left hoof raised up and sang her last line prolonged. The fire popped and exploded to the sky, fan blew her tail and mane up and colorful lighting shoots everywhere. Rara: I'm not just anypony I think you know The time is now, it's about to blow! The dancers emerged from their hidden positions as they began dancing wildly and professionally. Rara continued singing and dancing calmly, with light flashing and blinking, as well as smoke continued burst out. Rara: 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 As more of lighting shooting and flashing for few times, Rara continued singing and dancing briefly. The dancers continued dancing a lot. The unicorn fired his beam on her throat as she gave the loud and prolong vocalize. Rara: Give me more Razzle dazzle Glitter eyes, big surprise Lights, cameras The dancers emerged from their hidden positions as they began dancing wildly and professionally. Rara continued singing and dancing calmly, with light flashing and blinking, as well as smoke continued burst out. At the last moment, she stood firmly while her right hoof up. Rara: 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! Ponyville Town Ponies cheered wildly and excitedly. Western Dragon Kingdom Ponies muttered and chatted with each other about Rara's song especially their three generals. Applejack was in shock and freaked out as she couldn't believe of what she heard and see. This is not the same Rara she used to know since Camp Friendship. As the workers and dancers taking break, Svengallop approached Rara as he commented and remarked arrogantly and proudly. "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," Rara laughed a bit, "thank you, Svengallop!" Applejack saw everything as she groaned in annoyance, "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." "You're correct about that one. Wanna know why Countess Coloratura famous," Saber Dragoon asked in annoyance. Applejack nodded. He continued, "She relied too much on effects, lighting and full of nonsense technology. It shows her that she doesn't have the skills at all." "Aw, come on Saber. Don;t be like that," Apple Bloom said calmly and concern, "All those kind of elements take tons of work for her performance. Without them, Countess Coloratura wouldn't exist." Applejack sighed, "If you ask me, that wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing." Saber Dragoon nodded, "I know what you mean." At the stage, both Rara and Svengallop continued chatting with each other. Rara sighed in tiredness and exhaustion from rehearsing. "Oh, if we're all done here, I'd love to go back to my trailer and rest, Svengallop." Pinkie Pie approached and reported, "Actually, right now you're scheduled for your meet and greet with the schoolponies!" Svengallop groaned as she whispered to Rara, "Ugh. I can totally get you out of meeting with the schoolponies, Countess." Applejack was in shock before she groaned in annoyance and anger. Apple Bloom also felt her older sister's anger as well. They don't like Svengallop's attitude especially commanding Rara to do what he wants right for her. "Absolutely not," Rara exclaimed firmly, "My favorite part of any event is meeting with the schoolponies!" Applejack smiled as she approached Rara, "The schoolponies'll be so happy to hear that, Rara!" "We will appreciate that much, Countess Coloratura," Apple Bloom said happily. "Thank you" Rara smiled. As she followed the Apple Sisters, she spotted three familiar faces that she never want to see. She greeted dryly, "Nice to see you three again." "Like wise, Countess..." Saber Dragoon said in annoyance. Dragonspear nodded, "Hopefully you behaved well, Coloratura." Gutsy growled angrily, "Watching... You..." Apple Bloom groaned, "Are they serious?" Applejack sighed in annoyance, "Why am I not surprised?" Applejack guided all of her friends to the barnyard where the schoolponies were waiting and exciting to meet Rara or Countess Coloratura. Svengallop gave his annoying yet unpleasant glares at Applejack and Apple Bloom. Near to barnyard, Rara gathered all of the schoolponies at the small stage while Photo Finish took the photos of them both. She then began announced about the event. "Ponyville schoolponies! 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 foals cheered wildly and happily. Rara smiled happily to see little ponies loved her and her ideas. She then asked them of who wants some hoofies. Applejack smiled in relief and happy. Apple Bloom approached her as she was relieved to see her older sister happy. "I'd take it that you're happy to see Rara you used to remember?" Apple Bloom asked happily. Applejack nodded, "You bet, Apple Bloom. This is real her. It's her that you should meet." "But... I got everything you requested!" Applejack and Apple Bloom looked shock and concern of what they just heard. They turned to the Sweet Apple Acres's entrance where Pinkie Pie and Svengallop chatting and discussing with each other. "That was for Countess Coloratura! This is for me! And what I want is premium oats!" Pinkie Pie gulped as she held the plate of oats out, "Oh! Well, we have lots of tasty oats right here in Ponyville!" Svengallop groaned as he threw hers aside hard, "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!" Pinkie Pie gasped fearfully, "But that's impossible!" "Do you want me to pull Countess Coloratura from your little podunk charity show?! Because I will!" Svengallop exclaimed in anger. As Svengallop walked away, Applejack and Apple Bloom emerged from the bushes as they all shown very angry and upset about it. They then approached heartbroken and shocked Pinkie Pie. Saber Dragoon, Dragonspear and Gutsy came towards them as well. Pinkie frantically exclaimed, "Applejack! Svengallop just made all of these new demands and he said—" Applejack interrupted, "I heard, Pinkie. But don't you fret. I'll talk to Rara and fix things right up." "And you'd think she'll help us to deal with him?" Saber asked suspiciously yet concern. "You heard what happen! There is no way Rara could demand that much! Svengallop is the pony who makes the outrageous demands, not her." "But still-!" "No! I have to tell her about Svengallop. Hopefully, she give him some piece of her mind! I can't let him do what he wants especially manipulating her! She's my friend!" "Applejack is right, young lord. Perhaps rumors were wrong," Dragonspear said in concern, "Master Skysoar did warn us that we should be worry about her manager, not her. We misjudge her." Gutsy growled, "Svengallop... Must... Pay..." Saber Dragoon sighed, "Alright. We'll do your way, Applejack. Don't make me regret this." "Trust me. You won't regret it," Apple Bloom said firmly. Applejack smiled in relief as she and Apple Bloom led and guided three officers of Western Dragon Kingdom to the stage. Rara continued chatting and giving the foals some of hoofsies. Nyx was the last pony to get it. Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon were behind of her. Rara gave the hoofsies to both Nyx and Twilight Sparkle. "Hoofsie for you and your mummy too, Nyxie." Nyx giggled happily as she looked at her cheek that covered by red hoofsie, "Thank you very much, Countess Coloratura. I have her hoofsie on my cheek!" Twilight Sparkle smiled while patted Nyx, "It's so hard to believe that you and Applejack were friends once before. It's an honor to meet you." "The honor is mine, your highness. I'm thankful to be part of charity event," Rara thanked and bowed humbly. She then spotted Shadow Dragon behind her. She gasped, "Shadow Dragon? Is that you?" Shadow Dragon hummed in surprise while looking closely at her, "Rara?" "You know each other?" Twilight Sparkle and Nyx asked in surprise. Rara smiled and nodded happily, "Yes, he was my mentor! I met him when I was at least 16 or 17 years old during my stay at Manehatten. While I was practicing my singing, I met Shadow Dragon and Dragoking at Central Park." Shadow Dragon blushed a bit, "That's true. After hearing her voice and seeing her lyrics, I decide to train her to be professional singer. She really has some potential to be one." "And not to mention, we both became the couples. It was the best." "Huh? You dated Countess Coloratura before me?!" Twilight Sparkle asked in shock. Shadow Dragon blushed as he looked away. She giggled in amusement before giving him a nudge, "You sly fox. Why didn't you tell me that you dated the pop star?!" Nyx nodded, "Yeah! We could have gotten free tickets, merchandise and hoofsies without paying the price!" "If I did, you'd be jealous. And the last thing I want is your temper," Shadow Dragon blushed in embarrassment. Twilight Sparkle rolled her eyes in amusement while Nyx giggled. He continued, "But nine months later, things change when Svengallop came. I warned her about him and his 'promises' but ignored it and go with him. I was upset and angry with her. So, we both broke up." Rara sighed, "Yeah. That's true. We never see each other for almost 5 years. But worth it when I finally became a star." "To become a true singer, you must use your true talents to perform, not hide behind the tricks," Shadow Dragon said firmly and disappointingly, "For what you have done till now, that's not even your skills. You haven't change a bit." Rara smiled while shaking her head, "And you're still the same stern teacher and boyfriend I used to love and have fun with. Either way, I hope you enjoyed your happiness with Princess Twilight. Take care of him, your highness. He tends to get into some fights." "I will," Twilight Sparkle smiled before looked at Shadow Dragon, "You and I are gonna have a long talk and fun especially your past relationship with Countess Coloratura." Nyx nodded in agreement while bounced happily, "I want to know how you and her became the couples, just before you met mummy!" Shadow Dragon sighed, "Oh boy..." As Twilight Sparkle, Shadow Dragon and Nyx left; Applejack and her friends approached Rara to have a talk. "Uh... Hey, Rara, you mind if I talk to you about your manager?" Rara smiled, "Sure, what about him?" Applejack sighed, "Well, while you were meetin' with the schoolponies, 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?" "What? But he knows how important charity is to me, and leaving the festival would completely ruin my image!" Applejack hissed in concern, "I'm afraid Svengallop doesn't give a pickled pippin about your charity work." Apple Bloom nodded in agreement, "She's right about that." Rara shook her head and protested in denial, "That's not true! Svengallop has always supported me in all my interests. You're just saying those things because you're jealous!" "Jealous of what?" Applejack demanded in anger, "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!" Rara snarled, "And while we may have been friends when we were young, we have clearly gone in different directions! I wouldn't be surprise that those barbarians told you about the incident." "What?! Did you call my friends barbarians?!" Applejack demanded in anger. "Yes! Because they blamed and accused of me for making lots of demands! They even kicked me out from their homeland. We need the supplies for the trip, making music and album especially charity event! How could I help them if I don't have those supplies. They told you, did they?" "They did. But I'd never want to believe it because Sevngallop is the one who make the mess!" "Don't you dare blame him for this, Applejack! I don't want to hear this anymore. Now if you excuse me, I've got more important work to do than this. Goodbye, old friend..." Rara turned and walked away from her old friend. Applejack then gave a upset and pained looks. Apple Bloom and others looked concern and worry about it. Applejack has lost her childhood friend... In the next morning, Applejack and Pinkie Pie were peeling apples off the skins. They have no choice but to complete it before Svengallop threatened to pull Rara or Countess Coloratura from the charity event. Apple Bloom did nothing but watch the event. She was in pain and upset to see her older sister and Rara fight with each other due to Svengallop's manipulation. Saber Dragoon approached Apple Bloom, "Apple Bloom, I'm sorry for everything. I was wrong to misjudge Countess Coloratura over the outrageous demands." "I know," Apple Bloom said in understanding, "There must be something we can do to help AJ and Rara. I don't want to see them fighting each other!" Dragonspear hummed before gasped in realization, "There is! The pouch! Master Skysour gave it to me before we left. He told us to open it when Applejack reached critical point." "Open... It..." Gutsy exclaimed. Dragonspear took and open the pouch. He then open the folded note into whole. He and all of his friend read it carefully. They then looked at each other for the moment. They smiled and nodded in agreement. That could work. Saber Dragoon and Apple Bloom approached Applejack, who continued peeling the apples out. "You okay, AJ?" Saber Dragoon asked in concern. Applejack remained silent for the moment. He sighed, "Look, I'm sorry for what happened yesterday. I really do." Applejack sighed, "It doesn't matter. Rara wouldn't want to talk with me since she thinks Svengallop is always right. No point to talk her out." "So, that's it? You're gonna give her up?" Apple Bloom asked in upset. Applejack looked at her. She continued, "Just because you had one fight with her doesn't mean you should quit or forget about it! She needs you, AJ." "But Apple Bloom-!" "The last thing you want is her to be laughingstock! Everypony will never ever look up to her again. Nopony, not even that jerk Svengallop would bother to help her. But you do. You and her are friends." "Apple Bloom..." Apple Bloom sobbed tearfully while hugging Applejack, "Please, Applejack; don't you dare give up that! Please, help Rara..." "Your sister's right." Saber Dragoon said firmly, "You can't let Svengallop manipulating her. She can't see it. She needs us. She needs you." Apple Bloom wiped her tears off while showing her firm face, "So, are you gonna help her or not?" Applejack thought for the moment. She then gave the firm and proud looks. She then nodded firmly. Saber Dragoon, Apple Bloom, Dragonspear and even Gutsy smiled in relief. Applejack turned to Pinkie Pie. "Sorry, Pinkie, but there is no way I'm lettin' that lousy Svengallop use my friend like that!" Pinkie Pie was in shock and concern as she fell behind the peeled apples hard. Applejack headed off at once while her friends followed her. They have to find and convinced Rara about Svengallop's true nature before it's too late... Applejack and her friends approached to the big stage, where Rara was leading and instructing ponies handling the stage and preparation for tonight's event. "Countess Coloratura!" Applejack called. Rara looked surprised and amazed as she turned to her best friend, "Wow, AJ, you said my real name." "I said your new name, but I saw the real you hangin' out with those schoolponies yesterday. And I know somepony that'd prefer if you stop doin' those little events." "Ugh, not this again." "Come on now. You've just got to give me a chance to prove what I'm sayin' is true." "Please, Rara, let AJ help you. You and her were best friends." Apple Bloom pleaded, "She would never lie to you. You've gotta believe in her." Saber Dragoon nodded in agreement, "You trust Skysoar, don't you? He's the only pony who believed in you as innocent. Prove us that you are by trusting us and AJ." Rara hummed a bit before sighed, "And just how are you going to do that?" Applejack smirked, "Do exactly what we say. We'll see if that Svengallop truly has your best interests at heart." Saber Dragoon nodded, "Skysoar's plan never fails. Listen carefully..." Saber Dragoon and Applejack explained the plan to Rara about it, which she reluctantly to follow it as she's still unsure about Svengallop and his outrageous demands since he was her friend and manager when she began her music career. Either way, she has to see it with her own eyes. As ponies were setting the props up for the event, Rara called Svengallop. Svengallop came from her right side of stage. "Here I am! Did you need something?" Svengallop asked calmly. "Yes, I was... considering..." Rara said reluctantly yet fearfully. She gulped as she hated doing it, "m-maybe cancelling the contest with the schoolponies...?" Svengallop gasped in surprise yet relief, "Countess, this is wonderful! I've been waiting forever for you to cancel that pointless schoolpony contest." "You... have?" Rara asked in shock. "You do it at every charity event, and it does absolutely nothing to promote the Countess Coloratura image that I built! Consider it cancelled." Rara was in shock and upset to hear what Svengallop had said. Applejack, Apple Bloom and even Shadow Dragon were right about him. He doesn't really care about schoolponies' contest without asking her or even pleaded her to re-considerate it. "Pinkie Pie!" Svengallop called. Pinkie Pie trotted straight before him. She breathed heavily after spending a long time in peeling the apples' skin out. Svengallop smiled proudly, "We are making some adjustments to the show. Follow me!" As both Svengallop and Pinkie Pie moved back to the backstage, Rara nodded in giving the signal to Applejack and Apple Bloom. They both nodded before turned to Twilight Sparkle and Nyx as they waved their friends to move out. As both Alicorns flew in midair while following Svengallop and Pinkie Pie to the backstage, they used their magic in recording the event as the Earth Ponies began to have chats. "Cancel the contest for the fillies and schedule me a spa treatment. Now that I don't have to oversee a rehearsal with those brats, I have time for the works!" Svengallop said happily. He then gave Pinkie Pie a glare, "You know the drill! Deliver, or the diva ditches your dippy charity!" Pinkie Pie gulped fearfully as she nodded in understanding. Svengallop smiled happily as everything has gone exactly of what he wanted. He returned to the stage to have a word with Rara. And just before he could do anything, a familiar voice and scene appeared on the blank screen. Both Western Dragon Kingdom and Ponyville Town Ponies chatted and muttered angrily about Svengallop's behavior and threat. Rara was even angry and furious about his behavior. "So that's how you've been managing things?" Rara demanded. Svengallop huffed as he brushed the claim off, "Yeah, so? What's the problem?" "The problem is, is you've been using my name to intimidate ponies to get what you want! Your demands is the reason why Western Dragon Kingdom banished us from going to that land again! All because of your greed!" "But I work incredibly hard for you! I deserve everything I get!" "But not because you scare ponies 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 schoolponies' contest!" Svengallop groaned angrily, "Hmph. All this charity and schoolpony contest nonsense is just remnants of that boring little Rara I met back in Manehattan!" Rara groaned angrily as she lifted her face cloth up, "Unlike my old teacher, Shadow Dragon understands the real me more than you! He always taught me that showing charity and kindness have rewards - happiness! He trained me to be good singer with heart and passion! All you can think of is yourself! He was right about you! Therefore, I no longer need your service!" "Ha, that's a joke! I made you somepony while he wasted your time to perfect your skills! What can you even do without me?" Svengallop exclaimed in annoyance, Good luck, Countess Coloratura! Good luck." "That's all we need to hear." Saber Dragoon said firmly as he and his Western Dragon Kingdom soldier surrounded Svengallop. He took the scroll out and announced, "In the name of Western Dragon Kingdom, you are under arrest for using rude behavior, blackmail and threaten the innocent and mostly - insult the Emperor!" Dragonspear nodded firmly, "And don't worry, you're not going to prison... yet. Without Countess Coloratura's protection, we all would like to have a word with you." Gutsy chuckled in amusement as he grabbed Svengallop by neck, "Crush... You..." Svengallop gulped before chuckled nervously, "Can we talk this out? Please? I can do anything! Please, don't hurt me!" "Take him away," Saber Dragoon ordered. As Gusty dragged Svengallop away from ponies, the former manager screamed fearfully. His soldiers followed him. They all would like to give Svengallop some piece of their mind. They all began beating him up very hard and fiercely at the backstage. He continued screaming painfully. Rara looked down in upset yet concern of what Svengallop had said. Applejack and Apple Bloom approached her for comfort. "Oh, Rara, I'm so sorry." Apple Bloom nodded in concern, "Are you gonna be okay for the concert tonight?" Rara sighed, "Of course. After all, the show must go on!" Night time... "Oh, my gosh! Svengallop's right! This is gonna be a disaster! I'm gonna be terrible!" Rara panicked as she found out that the dancers are not in their position, the props and special effect machines were not ready, and even herself not completely dress or even worn the make-up. She is doomed! Applejack and Apple Bloom entered the backstage as they found Rara was panicking. "So much of getting rid of Svengallop," Apple Bloom asked in concern, "Why do you need that jerk? He deserve the punishment for the mess he make." Rara hissed in concern as she looked at the mirror, "Because Svengallop was in charge of everything! The lights, the visuals, the sound! Without Svengallop, I have nothing!" Applejack sighed while shaking her head calmly. She approached and made Rara comfort. "Now, now, don't go gettin' yourself into a tizzy there, Rara. 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." Applejack hugged Rara, "And Rara, when you're simply yourself, you're the brightest star I've ever seen shine." Rara then looked at the mirror as she slowly gave in thoughts of what Applejack has said. She's right about it. Rara has an idea of what to do now... Both Ponyvillw Town Ponies and Western Dragon Kingdom were gathered at the stage, even Virtue Dragon was there for supporting and sponsoring the charity event. They all cheered wildly and happily as Twilight Sparkle emerged from the curtains as she announced through microphone. "Good evening, everypony! 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!" As Twilight Sparkle moved aside, the curtains unfolded. The spotlight turned on and aimed on Rara with her original hairstyle and tail dressed in simple black blouse and a transparent grayish skirt, as well as wearing silver Egyptian necklace. She was neared to the grand piano. She smiled. "This song may be familiar, but yet, it's totally different. Kind of like me, Rara." The ponies were in confuse and shock as they chatted and muttered with each other, and even Virtue Dragon wasn't aware of it. As Rara began playing the piano calmly yet professionally, she sang harmonically and passionately. Rara: I'm here to show you who I am Throw 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 As Rara continued singing, the unicorns slowly glowed their horns with a sparkle of star. Rara: 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 With the cue given, the stage lightened up beneath the curtain. The conductor and his orchestra played their instrument in supporting and boosting Rara's singing and playing the piano. Rara: 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 Four Cutie Mark Crusaders nuzzled and touched each other's faces happily while listening to the song happily. Rara: 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 Rara continued playing the piano, she emotionally sang her song with the tone of joyousness yet despair and relief. Rara: And now I see those colors Right before my eyes I hear my voice so clearly And I know that it is right Rara went into determined and proud of singing the song. Her Cutie Mark glowed brightly and colorfully. Rara: 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 As Rara sang it out loud, ponies cheered wildly and happily for her including Applejack. She sobbed tearfully in both happiness and proudly to see her childhood friend finally revealed her true colors and true performances. Rara: 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 During the performance, Rara also cried tearfully in joy and pride as she finally express her emotions in singing and playing the piano. She was relieved to have friends like Applejack. Rara: 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... With the song ended, Rara smiled and bowed before the ponies. They all cheered wildly and happily, including Virtue Dragon and his ponies. Rara used the microphone as she approached to the front to announced, "Thank you, everypony! 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, and she told me that if I was true to myself, I couldn't go wrong!" Rara then looked at Virtue Dragon, "To the Emperor from the West of Ma, I owe you a great apology for the misunderstanding and rude behavior of me. Please, forgive me." "It is alright, Rara. I too owe you an apology," Virtue Dragon bowed down for the moment. He smirked proudly, "And I would like to make this up to you! Ponies, allow me to present you to make this event interesting - who wants to wreck Svengallop the Anti-Charity Pony?!" Ponies and even foals cheered wildly and happily. Gutsy moved the hanging cargo to the front for the show. Svengallop revealed himself to be beaten up badly while he was hanging upside down. He moaned and groaned painfully. Saber Dragoon and Dragonspear moved to the front as they both held several kendo sticks. Saber Dragoon held his kendo stick up, "Gather around, ponies! It's time for the special game - Wreck the Anti-Charity Pony! And who would be honor to this game is none other than Svengallop himself. Thank you for volunteer!" Dragonspear threw sticks to the foals while blindfolding them all, "The one who gave him the best, hardest and most beats on Svengallop gets free Countess Coloratura merchandise and free candies! Come and join the fun! Another one will be fallen to our spears!" Ponies cheered wildly and happily. Both adults and foals were all in offense positions. They're ready to attack Svengallop, even Gutsy joined the fight. Svengallop gulped fearfully. "Wreck... Him!" Gutsy roared happily. The ponies cheered wildly and happily as they used and wrecked their kendo sticks on Svengallop very hard and fiercely. He then screamed and pleaded for help painfully and fearfully, as well as begging that he will do anything as he wanted to get out of here. Ponies laughed in amusement about his whining. Rara smiled as she continued her announcement, "Have fun in beating that Anti-Charity Pony up! And now, I have a very special surprise for her. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Nyx, come on up!" As four Cutie Mark Crusaders got up on the stage, the spotlight turned on both them and Rara. They both then began to sing together, with both harmonically and passionately. The Flag of Equestria lowered down. Rara and Cutie Mark Crusaders: Equestria, the land I love A land of harmony Our flag does wave from high above For ponykind to see Rara lend her hoof down for Applejack to grab. As Applejack grabbed hers, she was pulled up on the stage. Both Rara and Cutie Mark Crusaders continued singing. Rara and Cutie Mark Crusaders: Equestria, a land of friends Where ponykind do roam They say true friendship never ends Equestria, my home With the song ended, ponies cheered wildly and happily for the performance. Sweetie Belle levitated the triangle up. Applejack played it once. Both her and Rara nuzzled each other's faces happily. Friendship till the end... END... Review and Suggest... Main Casts: Ashleigh Ball: Applejack, Rainbow Dash Lena Hall: Countess Coloratura/Rara Michelle Creber: Apple Bloom Will Friedle: Saber Dragoon Minor Casts: Colin Murdoch: Svengallop Terrence Stone: Dragonspear Alan Shearman: Gutsy Andrea Libman: Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle Cameo: Tabitha St Germain: Rarity Matt Lanter: Shadow Dragon Kira Tozer: Nyx Claire Corlett: Sweetie Belle Madeleine Peters: Scootaloo Dave B. Mitchell: Virtue Dragon