The Mane Six and Spike embark on one of their darkest missions yet when they are transported to Victorian London where a barber named Sweeney Todd is out for revenge on a corrupt judge who ruined his life.
I’m sorry… did I go too far?” Twilight asked worriedly.
“Are you kidding?” Rainbow asked with a smile. “That was awesome! Someone needed to slug that creep in the face; I’m just surprised it was you. I mean I knew you had it in you, Twi, and yet—”
Oh he DEFINITELY had it coming to him for a long while now
Revealing herself to be the humanized Pinkie Pie, briefly looking back toward the shop… suspicion in her eyes as she dropped the veil and passed through the town in secret back to her friends
I wonder if Pinkie is gonna find out about what’s in the pies
Well that rescue didn't go so well. But at least Twilight gave the judge what he deserved. Now they got another chance to rescue Johanna. They better make it count this time.
“Mea maxima culpa… I told myself the sailor was lying,” Turpin spoke, inching closer. “I told myself this was a cruel fiction… that my Johanna would never betray me. Never hurt me so. I treasured your innocence and loved you like a daughter… but you mocked me, Johanna. Tempting me with your innocence when you’re suddenly a woman, sighing before your window and gazing upon the town. So young, so soft, so beautiful… and you still want to leave me!”
Mr. E, you madman! You worked it in!
Edit: And Kiss Me as well! (And now I'm wondering if you'll be adding the short song where Todd is teaching Anthony about the different shades of hair)
I think that after this one is finished, you should do Transformers: Rise of the Beasts next, I could imagine the dialogue between The Mane Six, Autobots, and Maximals being absolutely hilarious.
Later that night, a certain group of girls and their young dragon-turned-boy ran about frantically as they helped Johanna pack her belongings so she could finally leave Turpin’s house. They had been packing for a while now, trying to get everything together for Johanna’s long journey with Anthony. By this point, everything was nearly finished as they reflected on how they got to this very moment.
Earlier, Anthony had been helping them all pack for the trip. But he needed to leave to ensure all was well on Sweeney Todd’s end of the plan. None were aware of what transpired that day, nor that Turpin was already on his way home at this very moment. Had they’d known what was to come, they probably would’ve left much sooner.
Johanna’s small, white hands were removing clothes from a drawer and placing them into her portmanteau, locking the case shut. She was dressed in her traveling clothes, nearly packed and ready to leave. But as the bag clicked shut, she froze in place and cast a downtrodden look toward the floor. This hadn’t gone unnoticed by the group; Twilight Sparkle especially was the first to take notice.
“Everything alright?” She asked Johanna.
Hearing the lavender pony princess talking to her, Johanna instantly snapped her head in her direction.
“Yes, I’m fine,” Johanna nodded.
“You don’t look very confident,” Twilight replied.
It was at that moment Rainbow Dash stopped in between the girls; her arms full of clothing.
“What’s with the chit chat?” Rainbow asked impatiently. “We need to be packed up before Judge Jerkface gets back from his shave!”
“I have to agree with Rainbow on this one,” Rarity interjected. “I’d hate to be anywhere near here when that horrid man returns.”
“And we were warned what will happen to us if he finds us here… twice!” Fluttershy emphasized.
“Don’t worry girls, we’ll get back to it,” Twilight assured them. “I just think Johanna needs some advice at the moment.”
“Well, make it quick!” Rainbow responded, with an eye roll. “Clock’s ticking and our window of opportunity is getting smaller by the minute.”
As the girls resumed their assistance with the packing, Johanna and Twilight sat alongside each other on the former’s bedside.
“What’s troubling you, Johanna?” Twilight asked concerned. “You’ve been longing to leave this place, and freedom is just minutes away from happening. Why aren’t you happy?”
The blonde-haired girl was silent for a moment, contemplating her answer until she faced the princess.
“I’m frightened, Twilight,” Johanna responded honestly. “Despite how oppressive it’s been, this is the only life I’ve ever known. I know nothing about the world beyond these walls, and I have no other family to go home to. What if the world is just as bad, if not worse than Turpin’s? Sometimes it’s best to keep the evil you know rather than stumble blindly into an all new one.”
As Twilight gazed upon the poor young girl, her words sinking in, the Alicorn princess had a feeling she knew where this was going. Placing a gentle comforting hand on Johanna’s, she gazed deeply into her friend’s eyes.
“I understand how you feel,” Twilight told Johanna.
“No, you don’t,” Johanna shook her head. “You have friends, family, and even someone you long for. My entire life has been in this gilded cage.”
“That may be true, but I do understand how you feel,” Twilight continued. “You’ve spent your entire life stuck in a bubble and you’re afraid to burst out of it.”
“What do you mean?” Johanna asked curiously.
Seeing this got Johanna’s attention, Twilight Sparkle released a sigh before explaining herself.
“When I was younger, I was trapped in my own bubble,” Twilight explained. “All my life, I wanted to study and learn everything about magic. That desire took over every single aspect of my life until there was nothing that I cared about more than my books. So many times, other ponies, even Spike, tried to convince me to open up, get out of my bubble for just a moment, and try to make friends. Each and every time, I’ve pushed them away. I had completely isolated myself from a world that went on without me.”
Twilight Sparkled turned her head toward her friends, who were moving about and packing an assortment of supplies. She couldn’t help but give a small smile at the sight.
“Then one day, my teacher sent me to a small town where I met some very kind, and frankly odd, ponies,” She giggled to herself. “Though I was cold and distant toward them, they did everything they could just to befriend me. But I was afraid to step out of what I’d known for my entire life.”
“What made you change?” Johanna asked.
“It wasn’t until the six of us came together and used the Elements of Harmony to vanquish Nightmare Moon that I realized something very important,” Twilight responded. “You can’t spend your time stuck in your old life; otherwise, you miss out on the chance to make a new one. You miss a chance of not only meeting new people, but potentially new friends.
“Johanna, you have a chance to finally make a new life of your own, with a man who clearly admires you and who you admire in return. Don’t let fear take that chance away from you. You need to stand up to Judge Turpin and stop living your life in a prison. What’s the point of living if you refuse to take any chances?”
A small lone tear slowly slipped from Johanna’s eye and down her cheek as she smiled toward her new friend. She couldn’t even begin to imagine how blessed she had been ever since these new friends came into her life. Friends who only wanted to help her be happy, even risking their own safety for hers. She threw her arms around Twilight, as the emotions finally caved in.
“Thank you, Twilight,” Johanna spoke gratefully. “I needed to hear that.”
“You’re absolutely welcome,” Twilight replied, hugging back. “Now, we really should get back to packing before Turpin returns.”
The two girls pulled away from the hug and were about to start packing once more when the door creaked open, drawing their attention.
“So, it’s true.”
Everyone turned toward none other than Judge Turpin himself standing by the doorway. He stared at them all with a cold vacant stare, the disappointment ringing in his voice. Johanna looked on fearfully, but also with determination.
“Sir, a gentleman knocks before entering a lady’s room,” Johanna stated.
“Indeed, he does… but I see no ladies here,” Turpin replied coldly. “Only a litter of harlots and their little ‘plaything’.”
“Hey! I resent that remark!” Spike growled.
“Say that again while you still have teeth, jerk!” Rainbow Dash cracked her knuckles.
But the Judge paid no heed to their words, merely slinking an inch into the room. The remainder of the girls, along with Spike, quickly made their way beside Twilight and Johanna. By the time he entered, he was dangerously quiet… and terrifically hurt.
“Mea maxima culpa… I told myself the sailor was lying,” Turpin spoke, inching closer. “I told myself this was a cruel fiction… that my Johanna would never betray me. Never hurt me so. I treasured your innocence and loved you like a daughter… but you mocked me, Johanna. Tempting me with your innocence when you’re suddenly a woman, sighing before your window and gazing upon the town. So young, so soft, so beautiful… and you still want to leave me!”
“You speak as though you’re the victim!” Rarity spoke in disbelief. “You act like you’ve never committed a single horrid act toward Johanna, even though…”
The feeling of one’s hand upon her shoulder made Rarity stop mid-sentence and she turned to see Johanna looking at her. A single nod from the blonde made Rarity step back, as Johanna made her way to the front of the group. She remembered just what Twilight said, how she needed to stand up if she ever wanted to walk free.
“Sir… I will leave this place,” Johanna said determinedly.
“I think that only appropriate,” Turpin nodded. “I cannot keep you longer, the world is at your window, and you want to fly away. Since you no longer find my company to your liking, madam, and I cannot watch you one more day… we shall provide you with new lodgings.”
He stopped just inches from the newly determined young girl and her group of friends, who were ready and willing to fight for their friend.
“Until this moment I have spared the rod… and the ungrateful child has broken my heart,” Turpin continued. “Now you will learn discipline.”
It was then that the Mane Six and Spike stepped in front of Johanna.
“You have to go through us first, jerk!” Rainbow challenged.
“Trust me, ah don’t think yer gonna get very far,” Applejack added.
“I don’t need to do anything,” Turpin replied. “They will.”
No sooner were those words spoken when the large form of the Beadle filled the doorway, along with a number of policemen entering behind the Judge.
“On my way back, I managed to stop by police headquarters and informed them of you,” Turpin stated. “I warned you what would happen if you came to my home, now you leave me no alternative. You are all under arrest for breaking and entering, trespassing, and conspiracy. I will personally see that you never see the outside world again.”
Turpin looked back toward Johanna with such disappointment, and also a quiet rage.
“I will keep you here forever, the world will never touch you as years pass,” Turpin said. “When you have learned to appreciate what you have, perhaps we shall meet again. You’ll tend me in my solitude, no longer as my daughter, but as a woman. Until then… think on your sins.”
Turpin made his way from the room, with a nod to Beadle. The Beadle surged forward and grabbed hold of Johanna brutally. Johanna screamed and fought like a tiger, but to no avail. The Beadle covered her mouth with one huge hand and hauled her out. The Mane Six and Spike did all they could to help, but the police swarmed upon them subduing them in their tracks. They fought and kicked their way against the police, but the number of officers proved too much. Eventually, everyone was dragged out of Turpin’s house and into the dead of night.
<>
Meanwhile, Anthony was strolling down the street across from the Judge’s house. After Sweeney Todd had blown up at him and demanded he leave, he needed to return to the others and get Johanna out of the house. He could only hope Mr. Todd would calm down enough to still help keep Johanna safe until they could find safe passage out of London.
Just then, the sound of screaming drew Anthony’s attention. He quickly raced down the street toward the front of the mansion. Rounding the corner, he saw a carriage in front of Turpin’s house and Beadle throwing Johanna into it. As the hansom cab pulled away, the last thing Anthony saw was Johanna’s terrified face staring out the window toward him.
“JOHANNA!!!” Anthony screamed.
Anthony saw the Beadle pulling her away from the window, sneering at the man as the carriage clattered off. In that moment, the police hauled the Mane Six and Spike out of the house. All while Turpin stood by the steps of the mansion watching this unfold.
“See to it you lock them up for as long as humanly possible!” The Judge demanded loudly.
Seeing the madness before him, Anthony raced toward Turpin with a murderous rage.
“Where are you taking her?!” Anthony yelled toward Turpin. “Tell me or I swear by God--!”
“WOULD YOU KILL ME, BOY?!” Turpin screamed in rage. “HERE I STAND!”
Anthony’s eyes burned into the Judge – but he was no killer…
*WHAM!!!*
Turpin immediately fell to the ground when something smashed into his face. Clutching his now extremely sore jaw, he looked up to see Twilight Sparkle standing over him with a clenched fist. A police officer tried to grab her, but she concentrated all her magic and sent a huge blast that sent all the officers flying backwards down the cobbled streets. Her friends stood there staring with eyes wide with surprise, as Twilight Sparkle turned toward Turpin, who lay upon the ground in horror.
“What sorcery is this?!” Turpin asked horrified.
“Magic, Turpin,” Twilight replied. “That was but a small fraction of what it can do. You so much as look at me, my friends, Anthony, or Johanna the wrong way, you’ll learn first-hand how powerful I am.”
Me: *stands beside Twilight* And if that's not enough, I'll add to it! *show my hand which glows with a holy light which in turn horrifies Turpin*
Turpin quickly scrambled to his feet and raced back into his home, slamming the door behind him. Twilight Sparkle turned back to her friends and Anthony, who looked at her with shock. This made her demeanor drop with concern.
“I’m sorry… did I go too far?” Twilight asked worriedly.
“Are you kidding?” Rainbow asked with a smile. “That was awesome! Someone needed to slug that creep in the face; I’m just surprised it was you. I mean I knew you had it in you, Twi, and yet—”
“Girls, I think we’re missing the big picture!” Spike interrupted. “How did the Judge know we would all be here?!”
“I thought we had more time,” Fluttershy voiced her concern.
“… It’s all my fault everyone,” Anthony sighed, regretfully.
To which everyone’s attention turned toward the young sailor, who looked down at the ground with shame.
“I let it slip that we were planning to get Johanna out of the house, and the Judge happened to be at Mr. Todd’s,” Anthony admitted. “I tried to get here as fast as I could, to warn you Turpin was coming… but I was too late.”
“Yeah… ya kinda are,” Applejack nodded.
“Really darling, I know you’re the Element of Honesty but please!” Rarity groaned.
Me: Yeah, don't rub it in.
“And now because of me, we’ve lost Johanna,” Anthony sighed. “I doubt even Mr. Todd will want to help me because… he got mad at me. And I don’t even know why.”
“Maybe all is not lost just yet,” Twilight Sparkle voiced determination. “We know Turpin is sending Johanna away to a place where she cannot be allowed to leave. We just need to find where they’re holding her and get her back!”
“But how?” Fluttershy asked. “This city is so big, she could be ‘anywhere’!”
“We must find Johanna, Fluttershy. Even if it’s going to take us all night!”
“Then we better hurry before the bobby starts waking up,” Pinkie Pie pointed out. “Luckily, in times like this, a good montage is just what we need to make the trip go faster!”
Not even bothering to argue or question, they turned and raced after the hansom cab even though it had fled by now. The Judge watched the scene from the window, seeing the group disappearing around the corner and the Bobby’s just starting to wake up. His face fumed with rage beneath his stone face, he knew that as long as they were still loose, they’d be causing trouble. But once word got out there were criminals on the run, there’d be no place to run and hide. He’ll get them even if he has to tear down all of London to do it.
*As we raced after the cab, two figures with glowing eyes watched from the shadows*
<>
Church bells continued to ring as Anthony, along with the Mane Six and Spike, searched the streets along the Mayfair for Johanna. Moving through the contours of the city, the girls and Spike also kept watch for any sign of the police knowing that as of tonight they are officially criminals. In the meantime, their search began in a luxurious area of wealth unaware their trip through the city would take them lower and lower, eventually into the darkest corners of London.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you, Johanna, I feel you. Do they think that walls can hide you? Even now I’m at your window. I am in the dark beside you, Buried sweetly in your yellow hair, Johanna…
And all through the night, they walked as Anthony sang…
*I keep an eye out for the police as well, knowing they'd never stand a chance against my magic or skills as Nightwing. The figures still watch in the shadows*
<>
… Sweeney Todd gazed quietly at the Daguerreotype, now resting on the counter. Eventually, he went right to work shaving a customer, a handsome young gentleman whom Chrysalis positioned on the chair. Todd remained wistful, detached, dream-like… even as he brutally slit the man’s throat as Chrysalis stared at the dying man slumping on the chair.
Sweeney Todd (Sings): And are you beautiful and pale, With yellow hair, like her? I’d want you beautiful and pale, The way I’ve dreamed you were…
Johanna…
While singing, Todd pushed a lever on the newly adjusted chair – the chair becoming a slide – and the Gentleman fell backward, disappearing through a trapdoor in the floor, down a chute – Todd pressed his foot on the lever again and the chair returned to its normal position as Chrysalis quickly cleaned the scene.
<>
Anthony and the group proceeded to walk along the docks, hoping, if not praying, that Johanna wouldn’t be there.
Spike (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony And I (Sings): Johanna…
<>
The night would carry on as Todd and Chrysalis continued their work with the next gentleman who came for a shave. First, Chrysalis would make sure the man was comfortable, removing his coat and a few belongings. Then as soon as Chrysalis wrapped a sheet around the man so his clothes wouldn’t be stained, Todd would carefully lather the man’s face with shaving cream before he went to work.
Todd (Sings): And if you’re beautiful, what then, With yellow hair, like wheat? I think we shall not meet again— (Quietly slit the man’s throat) My little dove, my sweet… Johanna…
<>
Anthony and the group were now walking past the hanging carcasses of the busy meat market. The display of hanging meat made most of the girls sick, especially Fluttershy, while the butcher kept hacking away at one shred of beef minding his own business.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you, Johanna…
<>
Another dead Gentleman lay slumped on the chair after choking on his own blood from the cut. Todd pushed the lever, sent the man down the chute to the depths below the shop, Chrysalis would hurl the clothes down with the man, they’d put the chair back in position… and it would go on repeat.
Down the slums, Anthony and the group were moving past a crowded tenement, redolent of cholera. But they had no time to share their sentiments to the sick. There was ‘one’ person they needed to find, and it seemed they were going nowhere.
Twilight Sparkle (Sings): Johanna…
<>
While Todd and Chrysalis were handling their own end of the work, Mrs. Lovett descended a long and very claustrophobic series of steps down to the bakehouse. She unbolted and pulled aside a heavy iron door and entered without anyone noticing. A fiery red glow spilled out – the roar of the oven within thundered.
The Beggar Woman stood on Fleet Street. The hellish metropolis glowed, the smoke from a thousand chimneys creating a great pall over the city. The Beggar Woman broke in a demented rage.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Smoke! Smoke! Sign of the devil! Sign of the devil! City on fire! (To disgusted passers-by) Witch! Witch! Smell it, sir! An evil smell! Every night at the vespers bell— Smoke that comes from the mouth of hell— City on fire! City on fire… (She begins to scuttle off) Mischief! Mischief! Mischief!
<>
The red glow of sunset filled the shop as Todd and Chrysalis ushered in another customer and prepared to shave him…
Todd (Sings): And if I never hear your voice, My turtledove, my dear, I still have reason to rejoice: The way ahead is clear… Johanna…
<>
Anthony and the group are moving down a dark alley by now. Shadowy figures lurked along the alley walls, some watching what appeared to be outsiders in their turf. But they paid no mind to wandering eyes, the girls and their friends kept searching.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you…
The Mane Six, Spike & I (Sings): Johanna…
<>
Todd continued his preparations to shave the customer, as Chrysalis proceeded to hand Todd a clean razor for the ‘treatment’.
Todd (Sings): And in that darkness when I’m blind With what I can’t forget— It’s always morning in my mind, My little lamb, my pet…
<>
Anthony and the group now moved past a lonely graveyard, not expecting to find Johanna but to try to be as far from any busy streets, especially with the police on patrol.
Todd (Sings V.O.): Johanna…
Anthony, Equestrians & I (Sings): Johanna…
<>
Todd (Sings): You stay, Johanna… (Quietly cuts the customer’s throat) The way I’ve dreamed you are. (Notices dusk outside the window) Oh look, Johanna-, (Pulls the lever and the customer disappears) A star! (Tossing the customer’s hat down the chute) A shooting star!
<>
Anthony kept singing as he and his group moved past the graveyard toward a quieter part of London.
Anthony (Sings): Buried sweetly in your yellow hair…
<>
Soon, Mrs. Lovett emerged from the bakehouse with a rack of hot pies. She climbed up the stairs, cracking the door open with her shoulder. The fiery roar of the oven within the bakehouse was overpowering…
… and the Beggar Woman scuttled madly along Fleet Street, trying desperately to implore someone, anyone, to listen to her as she pointed frantically toward the smoke over the rooftops.
Beggar Woman (Sings): There! There! Somebody, somebody look up there! (The passers-by just ignored her) Didn’t I tell you? Smell that air? City on fire!
The Beggar Woman approached the pie shop, the agitated music matched her increasing frenzy. She grabbed a stunned Toby – who carried some packages toward the pie shop.
Beggar Woman (Sings panickily): Quick, sir! Run and tell! Warn ‘em all of the witch’s spell! There it is, there it is, the unholy smell! Tell it to the Beadle and the police as well! Tell ‘em! Tell ‘em!
She spotted Mrs. Lovett emerging from the pie shop and exploded in desperation, pointing madly:
Beggar Woman (Sings): Help!!! Fiend!!! City on fire!!!
But Toby merely pulled away from her, as she scuttled off again…
Beggar Woman (Sings): City on fire… Mischief… Mischief… Mischief… Fiend…
Soon she was appealing to other pedestrians, as her mind just flipped.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Alms! … Alms! …
Little had the woman known, Toby did turn and considered the horrible black smoke belching from the chimney of the pie shop. Something about the foul, ebony smoke troubled him. From the steps toward the barber shop, after permitting another customer inside, Chrysalis eyed Toby and noted the way he studied the smoke. A frown formed on her face, as if she ‘knew’ Toby was starting to get suspicious… but for now, she’d keep her eyes on that boy.
<>
Meanwhile, Todd was left standing alone, contemplative, slowly and methodically stropping his razor. Another customer had fallen victim to his very blade, his throat slit, his corpse sent to the bakehouse, and thus far, no one had suspected anything was going on. Not that Todd was pondering about whether eventually he’d get caught. All he could think about was the last living person who meant something to him… but the more he killed, the more he slowly forgotten what mattered more to him.
Todd (Sings): And though I’ll think of you, I guess, Until the day I die, I think I miss you less and less As every day goes by…
<>
As day broke along the limehouse, Anthony, along with his friends, trudged past the sinister opium dens and depraved taverns of the East End. The Equestrians did their best to ignore it all together, which proved easier said than done.
Fluttershy (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony & I (Sings): Johanna…
<>
As the day continued, Sweeney Todd completed shaving a customer… only he didn’t try to kill him. It just so happened that the customer wasn’t alone. He happened to arrive with a wife and daughter, sitting in wait. Though it annoyed Chrysalis to let a patron slip away, when she turned to the corner, she could understand ‘why’ Todd wouldn’t kill him them. It wasn’t so much because they needed to slow down as to avoid arousing suspicion nor they couldn’t kill with a pair of witnesses, Todd looked at them and he couldn’t bear to remove a father away from an otherwise loving family. Seeing them, it briefly reminded him of how he was before he became… this.
Todd (Sings): And you’d be beautiful and pale, And look too much like her. If only angels could prevail, We’d be the way we were. Johanna…
Soon as the customer paid, Todd and Chrysalis ushered them out with the most pleasant smile they could form. But deep down… their hearts were breaking.
<>
Anthony and the group wandered past the high and impenetrable walls of a madhouse, the demented souls within could be seen moving about in silhouette behind barred windows.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you… Johanna…
Something eventually made them stop. The group watched as the man turned, considering the asylum…
Me: Of course...
<>
Todd shaved another customer, with a beautiful morning just outside the window.
Todd (Sings): Wake up, Johanna! Another bright red day! (Slit the customer’s throat) We learn, Johanna, To say… Goodbye…
As the note continued, Chrysalis pulled the lever and watched the customer disappear down the chute…
<>
Anthony and the Equestrians stared up at the asylum… and through the bars of the window, Johanna herself looked down toward the group sadly.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you…
*Having found the place, we now had to make a plan*
<>
“Anthony… Twilight…” Johanna whispered, out the window. “How did you find me?”
“We had to sneak around to avoid drawing attention,” Twilight whispered back. “But our guts told us we’d find you here.”
“Oh Johanna… we’re so sorry this happened to you,” Fluttershy sighed sadly.
“Beadle said I could leave if I agree to marry the Judge,” Johanna informed. “I’d rather die… if he should marry me, what shall I do? I’ll die of grief.”
“We have a plan,” Anthony assured her.
“What can we do with time so brief?”
“We’ll fly you out of there, Johanna,” Rainbow Dash assured confidently. “Maybe not tonight, but we’ll set you free.”
“How? They won’t let just anyone get through the gate.”
“Be not afraid, Johanna,” Anthony assured. “I’ll steal you away somehow; I love you.”
“Sir… I did love you even as I saw you,” Johanna reflected. “Even as it did not matter that I did not know your name…”
“It’s me you’ll marry, that’s what I’ll do,” Anthony declared. “When we get you out, we’ll marry at St. Dunstan’s. Hold a private ceremony, and we’ll leave London, go somewhere far away.”
“And we’ll be there to make sure no one tries to ruin this special moment,” Twilight Sparkle promised.
Me: I'll even help out for extra measure.
“Twilight… I knew somehow that you’d be there for me one day,” Johanna smiled sadly. “Even not knowing who you were or any of your friends. I feared you’d never come, that you’d been called away by the police. That you’d be killed, had the plague, in a debtor’s jail, trampled by a horse, gone to sea again, arrested by the—”
“Calm down, sugar cube,” Applejack gestured, looking around. “We ain’t gonna be able to git you out now. We have to lie low a while till the police dies down. Once we’re in the clear, we’re getting’ ya out of there in a jiff.”
Suddenly, the girl looked back as she could hear a door opening. Realizing what was coming, she turned back.
“You have to go… now!” Johanna urged. “Hurry! Before they find you!”
Johanna reeled back from the bars, leaving the group only a brief moment to see her. Now they knew where Johanna was, and also aware the place must be heavily guarded, they could only hope that they could put whatever plan they had into motion before something awful happens to their friend. For now… they left the asylum before someone caught on to them. If this plan was going to work, they had to rely on something to keep the public occupied…
*As we walk back to figure out a plan, I feel a familiar presence. I light my horn and see a man in victorian attire drinking a bottle of wine* static.zerochan.net/Blitzo.full.3213284.jpg
Blitz: *notices me* Oh, hey Cinema.
Me: Blitz?! What are you doing here? Don't you have a business run back in Hell?
Blitz: Yeah, business has been rather slow lately and Mox and Milly have a special thing goin on. So I thought I'd visit a time period where there was plenty of misery to enjoy.
Me: Uh huh... Well, the Girls, Spike and I are in the middle of trying to help an innocent girl out of an asylum and we can't have the police catching us.
*The others and Anthony come over and the girls and Spike recognize him even when disguised*
Spike: Is that Blitzo?
Blitz: THE O IS SILENT ASSHOLE!
Rainbow Dash: What is he doing here?!
Anthony: You all know this man?
Applejack: He ain't no man Anthony, he's an imp from Hell.
Anthony: *stunned* What...?
Rarity That ruffian tried to kill a friend of ours saying his clients payed him.
Blitz: Easy now lady, that's in the past now. Besides, Margaret and Chris are now at Princess Charlie's hotel. Plus, I just love to be around my favorite girls and dragon. *squeezes Twilight's cheeks*
Twilight: Uh huh...
Blitz: So CL here says you're trying to save a girl?
Twilight: Yes, you see...
*One Explanation Later...*
Blitz: THE F***?! A judge wants to marry this girl who he raised as a daughter?! That's the most f***ed up thing I've ever heard!
Spike: Boy do we know it...
Blitz: You know what, that girl needs to get out of there. So I'm gonna help you out whether you like it or not!
Sonata Dusk: You know guys, maybe he could be of help to us. I mean sure, he tried to axe off Carrie and Darek, but I think now he could be a nice allie.
*Twilight and I ponder and Twilight reluctantly nods*
Twilight: Alright Blitz, you can help us.
Blitz: Great~!
Twilight: On two conditions! You keep your disguise on unless necessary, and try not to kill anyone, we don't want to police to immediately come after us.
Blitz: No problem. I know how to keep things going for friends.
Twilight: Right.
*We head off to come up with a plan*
Me: By the way Blitz, how'd you manage the human look?
Blitz: Oh I had a bit of help from Stolis and his book.
It just gets bad to worse for our heroes. Soon as a certain someone lets it slip they plan to get Johanna out the house, the Judge is determined to lock her in a place where she can never leave. Our heroes were just lucky they weren’t arrested but after this fiasco they’ll be watching their backs anywhere they go.
Business is definitely picking up at Lovett’s. And it’s all thanks to a key ingredient courtesy of Sweeney Todd and Chrysalis.
Things are definitely heating up, (hehe... made a pun) the ending is getting me anxious and excited, nice undercover skills Pinkie XD, welcome back Lord E
I'm getting better at synching music up with readthroughs lately. Also, I like those moments where Twilight shows she's not a pushover, while still not breaking the plot.
Later that night, a certain group of girls and their young dragon-turned-boy ran about frantically as they helped Johanna pack her belongings so she could finally leave Turpin’s house. They had been packing for a while now, trying to get everything together for Johanna’s long journey with Anthony. By this point, everything was nearly finished as they reflected on how they got to this very moment.
Earlier, Anthony had been helping them all pack for the trip. But he needed to leave to ensure all was well on Sweeney Todd’s end of the plan. None were aware of what transpired that day, nor that Turpin was already on his way home at this very moment. Had they’d known what was to come, they probably would’ve left much sooner.
Johanna’s small, white hands were removing clothes from a drawer and placing them into her portmanteau, locking the case shut. She was dressed in her traveling clothes, nearly packed and ready to leave. But as the bag clicked shut, she froze in place and cast a downtrodden look toward the floor.
Ben Solo: She seems really nervous.
Leia Organa: Remember, it's her first time going outside, to escape from one who has kept her as somewhat of a prisoner.
Postwar: Kind of like Rapunzel did. *Everyone looks at him confused* Long story.
Mando: It's her first experience doing something unknown. I remember how scared I was when I took Grogu in. *Grogu babbled a bit whilst waving his little arms*
“Everything alright?” She asked Johanna.
Hearing the lavender pony princess talking to her, Johanna instantly snapped her head in her direction.
“Yes, I’m fine,” Johanna nodded.
“You don’t look very confident,” Twilight replied.
It was at that moment Rainbow Dash stopped in between the girls; her arms full of clothing.
“What’s with the chit chat?” Rainbow asked impatiently. “We need to be packed up before Judge Jerkface gets back from his shave!”
“I have to agree with Rainbow on this one,” Rarity interjected. “I’d hate to be anywhere near here when that horrid man returns.”
“And we were warned what will happen to us if he finds us here… twice!” Fluttershy emphasized.
“Don’t worry girls, we’ll get back to it,” Twilight assured them. “I just think Johanna needs some advice at the moment.”
“Well, make it quick!” Rainbow responded, with an eye roll. “Clock’s ticking and our window of opportunity is getting smaller by the minute.”
Galen Marek: Or sooner, no thanks to Anthony.
Sunset Shimmer: Oh come on, don't blame him, he didn't know the Judge was going to be in there.
Ahsoka Tano: If there's one thing I've learned during my time with the Jedi Order, is that the unexpected can always happen around the corner.
Postwar: Agreed, fate has a way of hitting you in the face without warning.
“What’s troubling you, Johanna?” Twilight asked concerned. “You’ve been longing to leave this place, and freedom is just minutes away from happening. Why aren’t you happy?”
The blonde-haired girl was silent for a moment, contemplating her answer until she faced the princess.
“I’m frightened, Twilight,” Johanna responded honestly. “Despite how oppressive it’s been, this is the only life I’ve ever known. I know nothing about the world beyond these walls, and I have no other family to go home to. What if the world is just as bad, if not worse than Turpin’s? Sometimes it’s best to keep the evil you know rather than stumble blindly into an all new one.”
As Twilight gazed upon the poor young girl, her words sinking in, the Alicorn princess had a feeling she knew where this was going. Placing a gentle comforting hand on Johanna’s, she gazed deeply into her friend’s eyes.
“I understand how you feel,” Twilight told Johanna.
“No, you don’t,” Johanna shook her head. “You have friends, family, and even someone you long for. My entire life has been in this gilded cage.”
Postwar: Actually she does, more than you can imagine.
Ben Solo: She does?
Leia Organa: How do you know?
Postwar: Just wait and see.
“When I was younger, I was trapped in my own bubble,” Twilight explained. “All my life, I wanted to study and learn everything about magic. That desire took over every single aspect of my life until there was nothing that I cared about more than my books. So many times, other ponies, even Spike, tried to convince me to open up, get out of my bubble for just a moment, and try to make friends. Each and every time, I’ve pushed them away. I had completely isolated myself from a world that went on without me.”
Twilight Sparkled turned her head toward her friends, who were moving about and packing an assortment of supplies. She couldn’t help but give a small smile at the sight.
“Then one day, my teacher sent me to a small town where I met some very kind, and frankly odd, ponies,” She giggled to herself. “Though I was cold and distant toward them, they did everything they could just to befriend me. But I was afraid to step out of what I’d known for my entire life.”
Ahsoka Tano: Whoa, is she serious?
Postwar: She is. She and Sunset have in common, both of them were Princess Celestia's students and both of them excelled in their magic and didn't want to make friends. Only difference is, Sunset became arrogant in her abilities, thinking that she was better than anyone else, and let her Temper and Impatience constantly get in the way as it led down to some disasters, whilst Twilight constantly tried to please her teacher by constantly kissing up to her, has a habit of overthinking things and is somewhat mentally unstable and a massive case of OCD, even if she did change over the years.
Galen Marek: OC what?
Sunset Shimmer: OCD or known as obsessive compulsive disorder. And he does have a point of her not thinking things through. When I asked her what would happen if she brought an Equestrian artifact to my old school, she didn't have an answer and I insulted her over it.
Postwar: Pff, like you knew the answer to that, until you learned the hard way when the magic turned you into a monster when it sensed the wickedness in your heart?
Sunset Shimmer: *Looked offended and wanted to say something, but then realized he was right, causing her to sigh in defeat* Point made.
“What made you change?” Johanna asked.
“It wasn’t until the six of us came together and used the Elements of Harmony to vanquish Nightmare Moon that I realized something very important,” Twilight responded. “You can’t spend your time stuck in your old life; otherwise, you miss out on the chance to make a new one. You miss a chance of not only meeting new people, but potentially new friends.
Ahsoka Tano: *smiles* Wise words Twilight. Wise words indeed.
Sunset Shimmer: Agreed. Wish I had learned that long ago.
Postwar: As I mentioned once before...Fate has a funny way of changing your path.
“Johanna, you have a chance to finally make a new life of your own, with a man who clearly admires you and who you admire in return. Don’t let fear take that chance away from you. You need to stand up to Judge Turpin and stop living your life in a prison. What’s the point of living if you refuse to take any chances?”
A small lone tear slowly slipped from Johanna’s eye and down her cheek as she smiled toward her new friend. She couldn’t even begin to imagine how blessed she had been ever since these new friends came into her life. Friends who only wanted to help her be happy, even risking their own safety for hers. She threw her arms around Twilight, as the emotions finally caved in.
“Thank you, Twilight,” Johanna spoke gratefully. “I needed to hear that.”
“You’re absolutely welcome,” Twilight replied, hugging back. “Now, we really should get back to packing before Turpin returns.”
Postwar: Don't jinx it, Twilight.
Ben Solo: What does Jinx mean?
Postwar: It's sort of like a bad omen. Like when you say "At least it can't get any worse", then something bad will automatically happen.
Ben Solo: It does?
Mando: He's not wrong, especially when someone kept on saying "I've got a bad feeling about this"
Ahsoka Tano: Mando's right. You wouldn't believe how many times that happens to us on a daily basis.
The two girls pulled away from the hug and were about to start packing once more when the door creaked open, drawing their attention.
“So, it’s true.”
Everyone turned toward none other than Judge Turpin himself standing by the doorway. He stared at them all with a cold vacant stare, the disappointment ringing in his voice. Johanna looked on fearfully, but also with determination.
Postwar: And she jinxed it.
Ben Solo: Oooh, now I see what you mean. I'll try to be mindful of that in the future.
Galen Marek: After seeing that...same here.
“Sir, a gentleman knocks before entering a lady’s room,” Johanna stated.
“Indeed, he does… but I see no ladies here,” Turpin replied coldly. “Only a litter of harlots and their little ‘plaything’.”
“Hey! I resent that remark!” Spike growled.
“Say that again while you still have teeth, jerk!” Rainbow Dash cracked her knuckles.
But the Judge paid no heed to their words, merely slinking an inch into the room. The remainder of the girls, along with Spike, quickly made their way beside Twilight and Johanna. By the time he entered, he was dangerously quiet… and terrifically hurt.
“Mea maxima culpa… I told myself the sailor was lying,” Turpin spoke, inching closer. “I told myself this was a cruel fiction… that my Johanna would never betray me. Never hurt me so. I treasured your innocence and loved you like a daughter… but you mocked me, Johanna. Tempting me with your innocence when you’re suddenly a woman, sighing before your window and gazing upon the town. So young, so soft, so beautiful… and you still want to leave me!”
“You speak as though you’re the victim!” Rarity spoke in disbelief. “You act like you’ve never committed a single horrid act toward Johanna, even though…”
Postwar: Typical Judges, thinking that titles gives you power when it just makes him a bigger fool.
Sunset Shimmer: And I thought Chancellor Neighsay was bad back in the day.
Leia Organa: Same goes with the so-called Regional Governors when he dissolved the Imperial Senate.
Mando: That's nothing, you should've seen the Bounty Hunter guild when the Empire took over.
The feeling of one’s hand upon her shoulder made Rarity stop mid-sentence and she turned to see Johanna looking at her. A single nod from the blonde made Rarity step back, as Johanna made her way to the front of the group. She remembered just what Twilight said, how she needed to stand up if she ever wanted to walk free.
“Sir… I will leave this place,” Johanna said determinedly.
“I think that only appropriate,” Turpin nodded. “I cannot keep you longer, the world is at your window, and you want to fly away. Since you no longer find my company to your liking, madam, and I cannot watch you one more day… we shall provide you with new lodgings.”
He stopped just inches from the newly determined young girl and her group of friends, who were ready and willing to fight for their friend.
“Until this moment I have spared the rod… and the ungrateful child has broken my heart,” Turpin continued. “Now you will learn discipline.”
It was then that the Mane Six and Spike stepped in front of Johanna.
“You have to go through us first, jerk!” Rainbow challenged.
“Trust me, ah don’t think yer gonna get very far,” Applejack added.
“I don’t need to do anything,” Turpin replied. “They will.”
No sooner were those words spoken when the large form of the Beadle filled the doorway, along with a number of policemen entering behind the Judge.
Sunset Shimmer: Typical. Not having the stomach to face him.
Galen Marek: Judges tend to do that whenever they face a threat.
Mando: Those with deeper pockets tend to do whatever it takes to get what they wanted.
Ahsoka Tano: Or who would do anything to please the Emperor.
“On my way back, I managed to stop by police headquarters and informed them of you,” Turpin stated. “I warned you what would happen if you came to my home, now you leave me no alternative. You are all under arrest for breaking and entering, trespassing, and conspiracy. I will personally see that you never see the outside world again.”
Turpin looked back toward Johanna with such disappointment, and also a quiet rage.
“I will keep you here forever, the world will never touch you as years pass,” Turpin said. “When you have learned to appreciate what you have, perhaps we shall meet again. You’ll tend me in my solitude, no longer as my daughter, but as a woman. Until then… think on your sins.”
Turpin made his way from the room, with a nod to Beadle. The Beadle surged forward and grabbed hold of Johanna brutally. Johanna screamed and fought like a tiger, but to no avail. The Beadle covered her mouth with one huge hand and hauled her out. The Mane Six and Spike did all they could to help, but the police swarmed upon them subduing them in their tracks. They fought and kicked their way against the police, but the number of officers proved too much. Eventually, everyone was dragged out of Turpin’s house and into the dead of night.
Galen Marek: Oh, come on, how is it they kept getting overpowered so easily?
Postwar: That's nothing. Rainbow tends to talk a big game, but it always blows up in her face. Hence why miss "Fastest Pegasus Alive" got easily overpowered by a bunch of Caballeron's thugs.
Sunset Shimmer: *Giggles* I remember that. Twilight and the others never let her live that down and Rainbow's been embarrassed about that for years.
Meanwhile, Anthony was strolling down the street across from the Judge’s house. After Sweeney Todd had blown up at him and demanded he leave, he needed to return to the others and get Johanna out of the house. He could only hope Mr. Todd would calm down enough to still help keep Johanna safe until they could find safe passage out of London.
Just then, the sound of screaming drew Anthony’s attention. He quickly raced down the street toward the front of the mansion. Rounding the corner, he saw a carriage in front of Turpin’s house and Beadle throwing Johanna into it. As the hansom cab pulled away, the last thing Anthony saw was Johanna’s terrified face staring out the window toward him.
“JOHANNA!!!” Anthony screamed.
Anthony saw the Beadle pulling her away from the window, sneering at the man as the carriage clattered off. In that moment, the police hauled the Mane Six and Spike out of the house. All while Turpin stood by the steps of the mansion watching this unfold.
“See to it you lock them up for as long as humanly possible!” The Judge demanded loudly.
Seeing the madness before him, Anthony raced toward Turpin with a murderous rage.
“Where are you taking her?!” Anthony yelled toward Turpin. “Tell me or I swear by God--!”
“WOULD YOU KILL ME, BOY?!” Turpin screamed in rage. “HERE I STAND!”
Anthony’s eyes burned into the Judge – but he was no killer…
*WHAM!!!*
Turpin immediately fell to the ground when something smashed into his face. Clutching his now extremely sore jaw, he looked up to see Twilight Sparkle standing over him with a clenched fist. A police officer tried to grab her, but she concentrated all her magic and sent a huge blast that sent all the officers flying backwards down the cobble streets. Her friends stood there staring with eyes wide with surprise, as Twilight Sparkle turned toward Turpin, who lay upon the ground in horror.
“What sorcery is this?!” Turpin asked horrified.
“Magic, Turpin,” Twilight replied. “That was but a small fraction of what it can do. You so much as look at me, my friends, Anthony, or Johanna the wrong way, you’ll learn first-hand how powerful I am.”
Galen Marek: Oh sure, now they do something.
Postwar: It's called staying undercover, doofus, or did you not know the meaning of the word? Kind of like the second rule of the Assassin Brotherhood, "Hide in plain sight."
Sunset Shimmer: Hey, I remember that.
Turpin quickly scrambled to his feet and raced back into his home, slamming the door behind him. Twilight Sparkle turned back to her friends and Anthony, who looked at her with shock. This made her demeanor drop with concern.
“I’m sorry… did I go too far?” Twilight asked worriedly.
“Are you kidding?” Rainbow asked with a smile. “That was awesome! Someone needed to slug that creep in the face; I’m just surprised it was you. I mean I knew you had it in you, Twi, and yet—”
“Girls, I think we’re missing the big picture!” Spike interrupted. “How did the Judge know we would all be here?!”
“I thought we had more time,” Fluttershy voiced her concern.
“… It’s all my fault everyone,” Anthony sighed, regretfully.
To which everyone’s attention turned toward the young sailor, who looked down at the ground with shame.
“I let it slip that we were planning to get Johanna out of the house, and the Judge happened to be at Mr. Todd’s,” Anthony admitted. “I tried to get here as fast as I could, to warn you Turpin was coming… but I was too late.”
“Yeah… ya kinda are,” Applejack nodded.
“Really darling, I know you’re the Element of Honesty but please!” Rarity groaned.
Postwar: Seriously, that girl never think things through. And some of the folks I worked with once thought of her differently.
Sunset Shimmer: Really? What did they say?
Postwar: Uh, let's just say it was a...very heavy insult. *Sunset flexed her eyebrow on that, with Postwar sighing and revealing* That they said that she's a country hicked bumpkin who's not too bright when it comes to fixing problems.
Sunset Shimmer: *Outraged* WHAT?!!
Postwar: Believe me, I was unhappy about it too.
“And now because of me, we’ve lost Johanna,” Anthony sighed. “I doubt even Mr. Todd will want to help me because… he got mad at me. And I don’t even know why.”
“Maybe all is not lost just yet,” Twilight Sparkle voiced determination. “We know Turpin is sending Johanna away to a place where she cannot be allowed to leave. We just need to find where they’re holding her and get her back!”
“But how?” Fluttershy asked. “This city is so big, she could be ‘anywhere’!”
“We must find Johanna, Fluttershy. Even if it’s going to take us all night!”
“Then we better hurry before the bobby starts waking up,” Pinkie Pie pointed out. “Luckily, in times like this, a good montage is just what we need to make the trip go faster!”
Not even bothering to argue or question, they turned and raced after the hansom cab even though it had fled by now. The Judge watched the scene from the window, seeing the group disappearing around the corner and the Bobby’s just starting to wake up. His face fumed with rage beneath his stone face, he knew that as long as they were still loose, they’d be causing trouble. But once word got out there were criminals on the run, there’d be no place to run and hide. He’ll get them even if he has to tear down all of London to do it.
Mando: I know that look, it's a look on a man who is dead set to kill those who stands in his way.
Leia Organa: He won't give up, will he?
Postwar: Those whose hearts are as black as souls, are doomed to their own downfall.
Ahsoka Tano: Agreed. People like him won't rest until they get what they want.
Sunset Shimmer: *Worried look and muttered* Be safe, Twilight.
Back at the barber shop, Alice Winters (a.k.a. Chrysalis in disguise) slowly climbed the steps toward the door. Creaking the door slowly open, she gazed into the room and found Sweeney Todd all alone. He sat in the barber chair, smoking a pipe. He held an old Daguerreotype; creased, stained, and bleached out.
The image showed his wife, Lucy, smiling and holding Baby Johanna. The child’s features are almost completely obscured by a stain on the picture. Though they expected to be very busy tonight, Chrysalis dared not to disturb him right now. She allowed him to look deeply at the picture as church bells bellowed in the distance. The sound of the bells snapped Todd back to reality, he slowly turned toward Chrysalis so she could read his thoughts. With a slow nod of acknowledgement… they went straight to work.
Together, Todd and Chrysalis were working busily. Sawing, drilling, screwing, hammering. They were doing something not meant to be seen upon the man’s barber chair. They were making all the fine adjustments, tinkering, and building so feverishly. And yet somehow, all this work was making them… happy.
Finally, after making the final adjustments to his chair, Todd and Chrysalis stood back delighted with the results of their tinkering. The ratty old parlor chair had been transformed into a sleek, Victorian barber chair – with unique refinements. And they couldn’t wait to test it on the first ‘willing’ soul stepping in for the ‘last’ shave of their lives.
Postwar: And so their killings have begun. *Looks at Leia* You'd better shield Ben's eyes from this.
Leia nodded in agreement and did just that.
“Is that a chair fit for a king?” Sweeney Todd asked. “A wonderous, neat, and most particular chair?”
“It’s gorgeous, Mr. Todd,” Chrysalis smirked wickedly. “Simply gorgeous.”
“You tell me where a seat is there can half compare with this particular thing!”
“It’s perfect!”
“I have a few minor adjustments to make.”
“You make those adjustments. It’s nearly six o’clock and patrons will be arriving down the block at a quarter.”
“Be prepared, Ms. Winters…” Todd instructed Chrysalis. “I’ve waited for this all day.”
Some were now getting tensed and worried at the same time, but Postwar kept his heart hardened for just in case, with Galen doing the same and holding Sunset's hand.
Church bells continued to ring as Anthony, along with the Mane Six and Spike, searched the streets along the Mayfair for Johanna. Moving through the contours of the city, the girls and Spike also kept watch for any sign of the police knowing that as of tonight they are officially criminals. In the meantime, their search began in a luxurious area of wealth unaware their trip through the city would take them lower and lower, eventually into the darkest corners of London.
And all through the night, they walked as Anthony sang…
<>
… Sweeney Todd gazed quietly at the Daguerreotype, now resting on the counter. Eventually, he went right to work shaving a customer, a handsome young gentleman whom Chrysalis positioned on the chair. Todd remained wistful, detached, dream-like… even as he brutally slit the man’s throat as Chrysalis stared at the dying man slumping on the chair.
While singing, Todd pushed a lever on the newly adjusted chair – the chair becoming a slide – and the Gentleman fell backward, disappearing through a trapdoor in the floor, down a chute – Todd pressed his foot on the lever again and the chair returned to its normal position as Chrysalis quickly cleaned the scene.
<>
Anthony and the group proceeded to walk along the docks, hoping, if not praying, that Johanna wouldn’t be there.
<>
The night would carry on as Todd and Chrysalis continued their work with the next gentleman who came for a shave. First, Chrysalis would make sure the man was comfortable, removing his coat and a few belongings. Then as soon as Chrysalis wrapped a sheet around the man so his clothes wouldn’t be stained, Todd would carefully lather the man’s face with shaving cream before he went to work.
<>
Anthony and the group were now walking past the hanging carcasses of the busy meat market. The display of hanging meat made most of the girls sick, especially Fluttershy, while the butcher kept hacking away at one shred of beef minding his own business.
<>
Another dead Gentleman lay slumped on the chair after choking on his own blood from the cut. Todd pushed the lever, sent the man down the chute to the depths below the shop, Chrysalis would hurl the clothes down with the man, they’d put the chair back in position… and it would go on repeat.
<>
Down the slums, Anthony and the group were moving past a crowded tenement, redolent of cholera. But they had no time to share their sentiments to the sick. There was ‘one’ person they needed to find, and it seemed they were going nowhere.
<>
While Todd and Chrysalis were handling their own end of the work, Mrs. Lovett descended a long and very claustrophobic series of steps down to the bakehouse. She unbolted and pulled aside a heavy iron door and entered without anyone noticing. A fiery red glow spilled out – the roar of the oven within thundered.
The Beggar Woman stood on Fleet Street. The hellish metropolis glowed, the smoke from a thousand chimneys creating a great pall over the city. The Beggar Woman broke in a demented rage.
<>
The red glow of sunset filled the shop as Todd and Chrysalis ushered in another customer and prepared to shave him…
<>
Anthony and the group are moving down a dark alley by now. Shadowy figures lurked along the alley walls, some watching what appeared to be outsiders in their turf. But they paid no mind to wandering eyes, the girls and their friends kept searching.
<>
Todd continued his preparations to shave the customer, as Chrysalis proceeded to hand Todd a clean razor for the ‘treatment’.
<>
Anthony and the group now moved past a lonely graveyard, not expecting to find Johanna but to try to be as far from any busy streets, especially with the police on patrol.
Anthony kept singing as he and his group moved past the graveyard toward a quieter part of London.
Everyone, minus a few, watched in shock and horror as the deeds were slowly being carried out.
Soon, Mrs. Lovett emerged from the bakehouse with a rack of hot pies. She climbed up the stairs, cracking the door open with her shoulder. The fiery roar of the oven within the bakehouse was overpowering…
… and the Beggar Woman scuttled madly along Fleet Street, trying desperately to implore someone, anyone, to listen to her as she pointed frantically toward the smoke over the rooftops.
The Beggar Woman approached the pie shop, the agitated music matched her increasing frenzy. She grabbed a stunned Toby – who carried some packages toward the pie shop. She spotted Mrs. Lovett emerging from the pie shop and exploded in desperation, pointing madly:
But Toby merely pulled away from her, as she scuttled off again…Soon she was appealing to other pedestrians, as her mind just flipped.
Little had the woman known, Toby did turn and considered the horrible black smoke belching from the chimney of the pie shop. Something about the foul, ebony smoke troubled him. From the steps toward the barber shop, after permitting another customer inside, Chrysalis eyed Toby and noted the way he studied the smoke. A frown formed on her face, as if she ‘knew’ Toby was starting to get suspicious… but for now, she’d keep her eyes on that boy.
Mando: He's beginning to piece things together.
Postwar: He's a smart boy, but I fear for his safety.
Leia Organa: Same for us. *Continues to shield Ben from the horror happening in front of him*
Meanwhile, Todd was left standing alone, contemplative, slowly and methodically stropping his razor. Another customer had fallen victim to his very blade, his throat slit, his corpse sent to the bakehouse, and thus far, no one had suspected anything was going on. Not that Todd was pondering about whether eventually he’d get caught. All he could think about was the last living person who meant something to him… but the more he killed, the more he slowly forgotten what mattered more to him.
<>
As day broke along the limehouse, Anthony, along with his friends, trudged past the sinister opium dens and depraved taverns of the East End. The Equestrians did their best to ignore it all together, which proved easier said than done.
<>
As the day continued, Sweeney Todd completed shaving a customer… only he didn’t try to kill him. It just so happened that the customer wasn’t alone. He happened to arrive with a wife and daughter, sitting in wait. Though it annoyed Chrysalis to let a patron slip away, when she turned to the corner, she could understand ‘why’ Todd wouldn’t kill him them. It wasn’t so much because they needed to slow down as to avoid arousing suspicion nor they couldn’t kill with a pair of witnesses, Todd looked at them and he couldn’t bear to remove a father away from an otherwise loving family. Seeing them, it briefly reminded him of how he was before he became… this.
Soon as the customer paid, Todd and Chrysalis ushered them out with the most pleasant smile they could form. But deep down… their hearts were breaking.
<>
Anthony and the group wandered past the high and impenetrable walls of a madhouse, the demented souls within could be seen moving about in silhouette behind barred windows.
Something eventually made them stop. The group watched as the man turned, considering the asylum…
<>
Todd shaved another customer, with a beautiful morning just outside the window.
As the note continued, Chrysalis pulled the lever and watched the customer disappear down the chute…
<>
Anthony and the Equestrians stared up at the asylum… and through the bars of the window, Johanna herself looked down toward the group sadly.
Sunset Shimmer: Looks like they've found Johanna.
Ahsoka Tano: But the question is, how do they free her?
Postwar: Good question. Though I think we'll know soon enough.
“Anthony… Twilight…” Johanna whispered, out the window. “How did you find me?”
“We had to sneak around to avoid drawing attention,” Twilight whispered back. “But our guts told us we’d find you here.”
“Oh Johanna… we’re so sorry this happened to you,” Fluttershy sighed sadly.
“Beadle said I could leave if I agree to marry the Judge,” Johanna informed. “I’d rather die… if he should marry me, what shall I do? I’ll die of grief.”
“We have a plan,” Anthony assured her.
“What can we do with time so brief?”
“We’ll fly you out of there, Johanna,” Rainbow Dash assured confidently. “Maybe not tonight, but we’ll set you free.”
“How? They won’t let just anyone get through the gate.”
“Be not afraid, Johanna,” Anthony assured. “I’ll steal you away somehow; I love you.”
“Sir… I did love you even as I saw you,” Johanna reflected. “Even as it did not matter that I did not know your name…”
“It’s me you’ll marry, that’s what I’ll do,” Anthony declared. “When we get you out, we’ll marry at St. Dunstan’s. Hold a private ceremony, and we’ll leave London, go somewhere far away.”
“And we’ll be there to make sure no one tries to ruin this special moment,” Twilight Sparkle promised.
“Twilight… I knew somehow that you’d be there for me one day,” Johanna smiled sadly. “Even not knowing who you were or any of your friends. I feared you’d never come, that you’d been called away by the police. That you’d be killed, had the plague, in a debtor’s jail, trampled by a horse, gone to sea again, arrested by the—”
“Calm down, sugar cube,” Applejack gestured, looking around. “We ain’t gonna be able to git you out now. We have to lie low a while till the police dies down. Once we’re in the clear, we’re getting’ ya out of there in a jiff.”
Suddenly, the girl looked back as she could hear a door opening. Realizing what was coming, she turned back.
“You have to go… now!” Johanna urged. “Hurry! Before they find you!”
Johanna reeled back from the bars, leaving the group only a brief moment to see her. Now they knew where Johanna was, and also aware the place must be heavily guarded, they could only hope that they could put whatever plan they had into motion before something awful happens to their friend. For now… they left the asylum before someone caught on to them. If this plan was going to work, they had to rely on something to keep the public occupied…
Mando: If it were up to me, I'd create a distraction long enough for folks to be drawn away from this.
Sunset Shimmer: But how, they don't know anyone else there that could help.
Postwar: Remember, they're in London, it's riddled with tons of gangs. I'm sure that they would find some help there.
Mrs. Lovett’s wretched establishment had been transformed and things were going better than ever. She had created a modest outdoor eating garden with tables, surrounded by glowing Chinese lanterns. A fresh coat of paint, a few bushes in pots and birds in cages add to the feeling of upward mobility. The entire place had been restored to its former glory as if the shop looked just like ‘new’ again.
Even a new sign hung proudly over the entrance to the pie shop: “MRS. LOVETT’S WORLD-FAMOUS MEAT PIES!”. And then in smaller letters: “LIKE MOTHER USED TO MAKE.”.
Not only that, but the eating garden was also already crowded, the benches at the tables are filled with a whole new assortment of customers eager to try her new meat pies. All the other customers yet to seated stood and milled about. Everyone else was eating, eating, eating…
… The most delicious looking meat pies one could ever imagine. Crispy crust. Thick, luxurious gravy. Tart and tangy meat. The customers take great, hungry mouthfuls; the steaming gravy oozing down greedy faces. Chomp. Chomp. Chomp. But they had no idea of the ‘true’ ingredients amidst all these new pies.
The Beggar Woman stood across the street, just outside the shop, ravenously hungry. She finally got the nerve to approach when Toby, wearing a spiffy new outfit with apron, burst from the shop, and circulated through the customers to stir up more business the only way he knew how… singing.
He moved through the greedily eating customers in the outdoor garden and toward the street…
Soon the boy arrived at the street and drummed up more business:
Toby proceeded to lead more customers into the shop and seat them at their own tables. Making his way out the back door to the shop, he returned to the outdoor dining garden. More hungry patrons ravenously ate the meat pies like they were going out of stock. Mrs. Lovett helped to serve the many customers in between, pouring them ale or serving them more pies ‘fresh’ from the oven.
As Mrs. Lovett swept from the pie shop with a tray of hot, steaming pies, like her shop, she too had been transformed as well. She wore her somewhat gauche notion of ‘fancy dress’. Buckets of decolletage and her hair had been dyed a rather unique aubergine color.
Some began to feel sickened as they realized what she was doing, even Sunset could barely keep her lunch in, for she is a former pony after all.
Suddenly, Mrs. Lovett spotted the Beggar Woman approaching, a grimace came upon her face, and she responded with unusual ferocity:
Nodding in response, Toby grabbed a dish towel and walked toward the old beggar. He shooed the Beggar Woman away, swatting the towel at her, and the homeless woman quickly scampered away from the shop… but soon came skulking back.
The customers are getting more rabid now – stuffing in the gorgeous meat pies in great fistfuls—
The bell above the barber shop rang loudly as the door opened and Mr. Todd stepped out to the top of the stairs to observe the atmosphere below. Chrysalis stepped out behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder as they stood watching the street hungrily. Sweeney looked at her hand on his shoulder for a moment before placing his own hand atop hers. Just then, he noticed his next customer talking with a smiling Mrs. Lovett, to which Chrysalis noticed too.
“Well, time to work my own magic,” She grinned wickedly.
Chrysalis soon sauntered seductively down the steps just as the man made it to the bottom of the staircase. He looked up and saw a beautiful blonde lady coming down the staircase, her sleeve tucked slightly to expose a bare shoulder. The poor man was instantly entranced, unaware that his fate was sealed.
Mrs. Lovett hung up a ‘Sold Out’ sign. She soon spotted the man climbing up the stairs, in need of a shave, beckoned by her blonde associate.
Lovett saw Chrysalis luring the man up to the barber shop. Todd still stood at the top of the stairs. They smiled secretly to Mrs. Lovett as they ushered the man inside. Seeing this brough a smile to Mrs. Lovett’s face, as she realized they weren’t sold out of pies… just yet.
The man soon entered the barber shop as she happily took down the ‘Sold Out’ sign and turned again to the customers:
Once again, the Beggar Woman snuck in trying to prove that her crazy theory was true and that there was something off about all this. Mrs. Lovett again spotted the Beggar Woman, and she spun to Toby with truly shocking viciousness:
Mrs. Lovett watched intently as Toby quickly approached the Beggar Woman and led her away to the front door of the building, closing the door behind her as it locked. The customers, meanwhile, are building to a pure frenzy of mastication – chewing and gulping and snapping at the heavenly pies…
As the music reached a rousing conclusion, Mrs. Lovett stood at the door to her shop… triumphant. For the first time in her life, her business was a rousing success, everyone was buying her products… and nothing was going to take that from her. Just then, she noticed a customer approaching the counter. Carrying a basket with gloved hands, it seemed to be a woman who's entire framed was covered by faded pinkish dress covering her neck to the tip of her toes. A wide brimmed hat covered her head; her face shrouded in a thick veil.
Postwar smirks as he knows who that is.
Sunset Shimmer: Who could that be?
Galen Marek: Something tells me we'll find out soon enough.
“Pardon me, ‘dearie,” The woman greeted, raspy like. “Do you perchance have any more of those ‘delicious’ pies? I’d like to buy some to go?”
“Ooh… sorry dearie, we just about sold out today,” Mrs. Lovett spoke regretfully.
Undeterred, the lady reached into the basket and dropped in a pile of coins along the counter. Not wanting to disappoint a paying customer, Lovett turned side to side, leaned down below the cabinet and pulled out a secret pie hidden from prying view. She took a gentle blow on the pie and placed it before the woman.
“Here… have a special one, on me,” Mrs. Lovett insisted.
“Bless yer kind heart, Mrs. Pie lady…”
The lady casually placed the pie into the basket and proceeded to walk away toward the door. Toby unlocked the door allowing the patron to leave, passing the beggar woman who stood out in the dead of the night. The mysterious lady casually placed some coins into the woman’s reaching hands, and the Beggar Woman seemed fixated on the ‘alms’ in her palms. Once far away from the shop, the woman lifted her veil slightly…
Revealing herself to be the humanized Pinkie Pie, briefly looking back toward the shop… suspicion in her eyes as she dropped the veil and passed through the town in secret back to her friends
Sunset Shimmer: Pinkie?!
Postwar: Heh, knew it. Her senses never fail her. For she had a feeling something felt off about this place.
Leia Organa: You think she'll tell the others about this?
Mando: She will. Her friends need to know what's going on.
Inner Me: (To me in real-life) “WAKE UP!!! Okay, man. Pity party is over! You’ve got work to do! Lots and lots of it! Now get that brain of yours in working order now! Everybody’s waiting for you!”
Arctic was on his way back to the theater room with Fluttershy by his side as he looked over to the shy girl
Arctic: Hey, you feeling alright now? (He asked the shy girl
Fluttershy: (would nod her head slightly) I-I think so. T-thank you. (She said as she held onto his arm a bit)
Arctic: No problem, Fluttershy.
The two of them entered back into the movie theater and sees the of Fluttershy friends in their seats drinking some bottled water
Arctic: Hey, Girls. You all feeling better now? (He asked a bit worried)
Sci-Twi: W-Will be ok, I think..
Juniper: Let’s.. just try and finish the rest of this.
Arctic would nod his head and gets back in his own as Fluttershy sits in her’s as they continue to watch the movie again.
Later that night, a certain group of girls and their young dragon-turned-boy ran about frantically as they helped Johanna pack her belongings so she could finally leave Turpin’s house. They had been packing for a while now, trying to get everything together for Johanna’s long journey with Anthony. By this point, everything was nearly finished as they reflected on how they got to this very moment.
Earlier, Anthony had been helping them all pack for the trip. But he needed to leave to ensure all was well on Sweeney Todd’s end of the plan. None were aware of what transpired that day, nor that Turpin was already on his way home at this very moment. Had they’d known what was to come, they probably would’ve left much sooner.
Johanna’s small, white hands were removing clothes from a drawer and placing them into her portmanteau, locking the case shut. She was dressed in her traveling clothes, nearly packed and ready to leave. But as the bag clicked shut, she froze in place and cast a downtrodden look toward the floor.
Rarity: Poor Johanna, she seems nervous about all of this.
Juniper: After everything she’s been through, i wouldn’t blame her for getting worried
“Everything alright?” She asked Johanna.
Hearing the lavender pony princess talking to her, Johanna instantly snapped her head in her direction.
“Yes, I’m fine,” Johanna nodded.
“You don’t look very confident,” Twilight replied.
It was at that moment Rainbow Dash stopped in between the girls; her arms full of clothing.
“What’s with the chit chat?” Rainbow asked impatiently. “We need to be packed up before Judge Jerkface gets back from his shave!”
“I have to agree with Rainbow on this one,” Rarity interjected. “I’d hate to be anywhere near here when that horrid man returns.”
“And we were warned what will happen to us if he finds us here… twice!” Fluttershy emphasized.
“Don’t worry girls, we’ll get back to it,” Twilight assured them. “I just think Johanna needs some advice at the moment.”
“Well, make it quick!” Rainbow responded, with an eye roll. “Clock’s ticking and our window of opportunity is getting smaller by the minute.”
As the girls resumed their assistance with the packing, Johanna and Twilight sat alongside each other on the former’s bedside.
“What’s troubling you, Johanna?” Twilight asked concerned. “You’ve been longing to leave this place, and freedom is just minutes away from happening. Why aren’t you happy?”
The blonde-haired girl was silent for a moment, contemplating her answer until she faced the princess.
“I’m frightened, Twilight,” Johanna responded honestly. “Despite how oppressive it’s been, this is the only life I’ve ever known. I know nothing about the world beyond these walls, and I have no other family to go home to. What if the world is just as bad, if not worse than Turpin’s? Sometimes it’s best to keep the evil you know rather than stumble blindly into an all new one.”
As Twilight gazed upon the poor young girl, her words sinking in, the Alicorn princess had a feeling she knew where this was going. Placing a gentle comforting hand on Johanna’s, she gazed deeply into her friend’s eyes.
“I understand how you feel,” Twilight told Johanna.
“No, you don’t,” Johanna shook her head. “You have friends, family, and even someone you long for. My entire life has been in this gilded cage.”
Sci-Twi: I wouldn’t say that, me and even the princess could relate to her, being in our own world and not opening up to others.
Arctic: But, since then you both grown and met wonderful people who’re your friends (he said with a small smile)
Pinkie Pie: And we’re happy to have you as part of our group! (She said with a big grin)
“When I was younger, I was trapped in my own bubble,” Twilight explained. “All my life, I wanted to study and learn everything about magic. That desire took over every single aspect of my life until there was nothing that I cared about more than my books. So many times, other ponies, even Spike, tried to convince me to open up, get out of my bubble for just a moment, and try to make friends. Each and every time, I’ve pushed them away. I had completely isolated myself from a world that went on without me.”
Twilight Sparkled turned her head toward her friends, who were moving about and packing an assortment of supplies. She couldn’t help but give a small smile at the sight.
“Then one day, my teacher sent me to a small town where I met some very kind, and frankly odd, ponies,” She giggled to herself. “Though I was cold and distant toward them, they did everything they could just to befriend me. But I was afraid to step out of what I’d known for my entire life.”
“What made you change?” Johanna asked.
“It wasn’t until the six of us came together and used the Elements of Harmony to vanquish Nightmare Moon that I realized something very important,” Twilight responded. “You can’t spend your time stuck in your old life; otherwise, you miss out on the chance to make a new one. You miss a chance of not only meeting new people, but potentially new friends.
Arctic and The Equestrian Girls smile softly hearing the words from the Princess
“Johanna, you have a chance to finally make a new life of your own, with a man who clearly admires you and who you admire in return. Don’t let fear take that chance away from you. You need to stand up to Judge Turpin and stop living your life in a prison. What’s the point of living if you refuse to take any chances?”
A small lone tear slowly slipped from Johanna’s eye and down her cheek as she smiled toward her new friend. She couldn’t even begin to imagine how blessed she had been ever since these new friends came into her life. Friends who only wanted to help her be happy, even risking their own safety for hers. She threw her arms around Twilight, as the emotions finally caved in.
“Thank you, Twilight,” Johanna spoke gratefully. “I needed to hear that.”
“You’re absolutely welcome,” Twilight replied, hugging back. “Now, we really should get back to packing before Turpin returns.”
Rainbow Dash:…. She jinxed it didn’t she?
Arctic and Applejack: Eeeyup…
Fluttershy: O-Oh no…
The two girls pulled away from the hug and were about to start packing once more when the door creaked open, drawing their attention.
“So, it’s true.”
Everyone turned toward none other than Judge Turpin himself standing by the doorway. He stared at them all with a cold vacant stare, the disappointment ringing in his voice. Johanna looked on fearfully, but also with determination.
Sir, a gentleman knocks before entering a lady’s room,” Johanna stated.
“Indeed, he does… but I see no ladies here,” Turpin replied coldly. “Only a litter of harlots and their little ‘plaything’.”
“Hey! I resent that remark!” Spike growled.
“Say that again while you still have teeth, jerk!” Rainbow Dash cracked her knuckles.
But the Judge paid no heed to their words, merely slinking an inch into the room. The remainder of the girls, along with Spike, quickly made their way beside Twilight and Johanna. By the time he entered, he was dangerously quiet… and terrifically hurt.
“Mea maxima culpa… I told myself the sailor was lying,” Turpin spoke, inching closer. “I told myself this was a cruel fiction… that my Johanna would never betray me. Never hurt me so. I treasured your innocence and loved you like a daughter… but you mocked me, Johanna. Tempting me with your innocence when you’re suddenly a woman, sighing before your window and gazing upon the town. So young, so soft, so beautiful… and you still want to leave me!”
“You speak as though you’re the victim!” Rarity spoke in disbelief. “You act like you’ve never committed a single horrid act toward Johanna, even though…”
Juniper: She’s right, so you have no right to talk. (She said with a glare)
The feeling of one’s hand upon her shoulder made Rarity stop mid-sentence and she turned to see Johanna looking at her. A single nod from the blonde made Rarity step back, as Johanna made her way to the front of the group. She remembered just what Twilight said, how she needed to stand up if she ever wanted to walk free.
“Sir… I will leave this place,” Johanna said determinedly.
“I think that only appropriate,” Turpin nodded. “I cannot keep you longer, the world is at your window, and you want to fly away. Since you no longer find my company to your liking, madam, and I cannot watch you one more day… we shall provide you with new lodgings.”
He stopped just inches from the newly determined young girl and her group of friends, who were ready and willing to fight for their friend.
“Until this moment I have spared the rod… and the ungrateful child has broken my heart,” Turpin continued. “Now you will learn discipline.”
It was then that the Mane Six and Spike stepped in front of Johanna.
“You have to go through us first, jerk!” Rainbow challenged.
“Trust me, ah don’t think yer gonna get very far,” Applejack added.
“I don’t need to do anything,” Turpin replied. “They will.”
No sooner were those words spoken when the large form of the Beadle filled the doorway, along with a number of policemen entering behind the Judge.
Sci-Twi: That coward! (She said in anger)
Applejack: Doesn’t have the courage to face them, and got the police to do it. (She said with a glare of her own)
Arctic: This is why I hate corrupted power hungry people like him. Abusing his status like this.
“On my way back, I managed to stop by police headquarters and informed them of you,” Turpin stated. “I warned you what would happen if you came to my home, now you leave me no alternative. You are all under arrest for breaking and entering, trespassing, and conspiracy. I will personally see that you never see the outside world again.”
Turpin looked back toward Johanna with such disappointment, and also a quiet rage.
“I will keep you here forever, the world will never touch you as years pass,” Turpin said. “When you have learned to appreciate what you have, perhaps we shall meet again. You’ll tend me in my solitude, no longer as my daughter, but as a woman. Until then… think on your sins.”
Turpin made his way from the room, with a nod to Beadle. The Beadle surged forward and grabbed hold of Johanna brutally. Johanna screamed and fought like a tiger, but to no avail. The Beadle covered her mouth with one huge hand and hauled her out. The Mane Six and Spike did all they could to help, but the police swarmed upon them subduing them in their tracks. They fought and kicked their way against the police, but the number of officers proved too much. Eventually, everyone was dragged out of Turpin’s house and into the dead of night.
Rainbow Dash: The heck?! They shouldn’t be getting overpowered like that!
Fluttershy: M-Maybe they’re trying to blow their cover to him?
Rainbow Dash: At this point, Fluttershy. That judge needs deserves a blast of magic in the face.
Meanwhile, Anthony was strolling down the street across from the Judge’s house. After Sweeney Todd had blown up at him and demanded he leave, he needed to return to the others and get Johanna out of the house. He could only hope Mr. Todd would calm down enough to still help keep Johanna safe until they could find safe passage out of London.
Just then, the sound of screaming drew Anthony’s attention. He quickly raced down the street toward the front of the mansion. Rounding the corner, he saw a carriage in front of Turpin’s house and Beadle throwing Johanna into it. As the hansom cab pulled away, the last thing Anthony saw was Johanna’s terrified face staring out the window toward him.
“JOHANNA!!!” Anthony screamed.
Anthony saw the Beadle pulling her away from the window, sneering at the man as the carriage clattered off. In that moment, the police hauled the Mane Six and Spike out of the house. All while Turpin stood by the steps of the mansion watching this unfold.
“See to it you lock them up for as long as humanly possible!” The Judge demanded loudly.
Seeing the madness before him, Anthony raced toward Turpin with a murderous rage.
“Where are you taking her?!” Anthony yelled toward Turpin. “Tell me or I swear by God--!”
“WOULD YOU KILL ME, BOY?!” Turpin screamed in rage. “HERE I STAND!”
Anthony’s eyes burned into the Judge – but he was no killer…
*WHAM!!!*
Turpin immediately fell to the ground when something smashed into his face. Clutching his now extremely sore jaw, he looked up to see Twilight Sparkle standing over him with a clenched fist. A police officer tried to grab her, but she concentrated all her magic and sent a huge blast that sent all the officers flying backwards down the cobble streets. Her friends stood there staring with eyes wide with surprise, as Twilight Sparkle turned toward Turpin, who lay upon the ground in horror.
“What sorcery is this?!” Turpin asked horrified.
“Magic, Turpin,” Twilight replied. “That was but a small fraction of what it can do. You so much as look at me, my friends, Anthony, or Johanna the wrong way, you’ll learn first-hand how powerful I am.”
Rainbow Dash: Now that’s more like it!
Juniper: Bet his not so high and mighty now. (She said with a smirk)
Turpin quickly scrambled to his feet and raced back into his home, slamming the door behind him. Twilight Sparkle turned back to her friends and Anthony, who looked at her with shock. This made her demeanor drop with concern.
Rainbow Dash: Yeah! You better run!
“I’m sorry… did I go too far?” Twilight asked worriedly.
“Are you kidding?” Rainbow asked with a smile. “That was awesome! Someone needed to slug that creep in the face; I’m just surprised it was you. I mean I knew you had it in you, Twi, and yet—”
Arctic: Oh definitely, he had all of that coming.
Sci-Twi: Agreed.
Rainbow Dash: You know it.
Rarity: Someone needed to teach that brute a lesson.
“Girls, I think we’re missing the big picture!” Spike interrupted. “How did the Judge know we would all be here?!”
“I thought we had more time,” Fluttershy voiced her concern.
“… It’s all my fault everyone,” Anthony sighed, regretfully.
To which everyone’s attention turned toward the young sailor, who looked down at the ground with shame.
“I let it slip that we were planning to get Johanna out of the house, and the Judge happened to be at Mr. Todd’s,” Anthony admitted. “I tried to get here as fast as I could, to warn you Turpin was coming… but I was too late.”
“Yeah… ya kinda are,” Applejack nodded.
“Really darling, I know you’re the Element of Honesty but please!” Rarity groaned.
Pinkie Pie: Yikes, talk about brutal honesty
Applejack: (would cover her face with her hat a bit)
“And now because of me, we’ve lost Johanna,” Anthony sighed. “I doubt even Mr. Todd will want to help me because… he got mad at me. And I don’t even know why.”
“Maybe all is not lost just yet,” Twilight Sparkle voiced determination. “We know Turpin is sending Johanna away to a place where she cannot be allowed to leave. We just need to find where they’re holding her and get her back!”
“But how?” Fluttershy asked. “This city is so big, she could be ‘anywhere’!”
“We must find Johanna, Fluttershy. Even if it’s going to take us all night!”
“Then we better hurry before the bobby starts waking up,” Pinkie Pie pointed out. “Luckily, in times like this, a good montage is just what we need to make the trip go faster!”
Not even bothering to argue or question, they turned and raced after the hansom cab even though it had fled by now. The Judge watched the scene from the window, seeing the group disappearing around the corner and the Bobby’s just starting to wake up. His face fumed with rage beneath his stone face, he knew that as long as they were still loose, they’d be causing trouble. But once word got out there were criminals on the run, there’d be no place to run and hide. He’ll get them even if he has to tear down all of London to do it.
Fluttershy: I-I hope they’ll be able to find her..
Arctic: I hope so too, Fluttershy. (He said towards the shy girl)
Back at the barber shop, Alice Winters (a.k.a. Chrysalis in disguise) slowly climbed the steps toward the door. Creaking the door slowly open, she gazed into the room and found Sweeney Todd all alone. He sat in the barber chair, smoking a pipe. He held an old Daguerreotype; creased, stained, and bleached out.
The image showed his wife, Lucy, smiling and holding Baby Johanna. The child’s features are almost completely obscured by a stain on the picture. Though they expected to be very busy tonight, Chrysalis dared not to disturb him right now. She allowed him to look deeply at the picture as church bells bellowed in the distance. The sound of the bells snapped Todd back to reality, he slowly turned toward Chrysalis so she could read his thoughts. With a slow nod of acknowledgement… they went straight to work.
Together, Todd and Chrysalis were working busily. Sawing, drilling, screwing, hammering. They were doing something not meant to be seen upon the man’s barber chair. They were making all the fine adjustments, tinkering, and building so feverishly. And yet somehow, all this work was making them… happy.
Finally, after making the final adjustments to his chair, Todd and Chrysalis stood back delighted with the results of their tinkering. The ratty old parlor chair had been transformed into a sleek, Victorian barber chair – with unique refinements. And they couldn’t wait to test it on the first ‘willing’ soul stepping in for the ‘last’ shave of their lives.
Pinkie Pie: I’m getting a really REALLY worried.. (she said nervously)
“Is that a chair fit for a king?” Sweeney Todd asked. “A wonderous, neat, and most particular chair?”
“It’s gorgeous, Mr. Todd,” Chrysalis smirked wickedly. “Simply gorgeous.”
“You tell me where a seat is there can half compare with this particular thing!”
“It’s perfect!”
“I have a few minor adjustments to make.”
“You make those adjustments. It’s nearly six o’clock and patrons will be arriving down the block at a quarter.”
“Be prepared, Ms. Winters…” Todd instructed Chrysalis. “I’ve waited for this all day.”
Fluttershy: (would hold onto Arctic arm and hides her face in his shoulder)
Arctic: (comforts the shy girl a little bit and looks over) you girls gonna be alright? (He asked)
Rarity: Y-Yes, will be alright.. probably. (She said getting a bit of dread in her stomach)
Church bells continued to ring as Anthony, along with the Mane Six and Spike, searched the streets along the Mayfair for Johanna. Moving through the contours of the city, the girls and Spike also kept watch for any sign of the police knowing that as of tonight they are officially criminals. In the meantime, their search began in a luxurious area of wealth unaware their trip through the city would take them lower and lower, eventually into the darkest corners of London.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you, Johanna, I feel you. Do they think that walls can hide you? Even now I’m at your window. I am in the dark beside you, Buried sweetly in your yellow hair, Johanna…
And all through the night, they walked as Anthony sang…
<>
… Sweeney Todd gazed quietly at the Daguerreotype, now resting on the counter. Eventually, he went right to work shaving a customer, a handsome young gentleman whom Chrysalis positioned on the chair. Todd remained wistful, detached, dream-like… even as he brutally slit the man’s throat as Chrysalis stared at the dying man slumping on the chair.
Sweeney Todd (Sings): And are you beautiful and pale, With yellow hair, like her? I’d want you beautiful and pale, The way I’ve dreamed you were…
Johanna…
While singing, Todd pushed a lever on the newly adjusted chair – the chair becoming a slide – and the Gentleman fell backward, disappearing through a trapdoor in the floor, down a chute – Todd pressed his foot on the lever again and the chair returned to its normal position as Chrysalis quickly cleaned the scene.
<>
Anthony and the group proceeded to walk along the docks, hoping, if not praying, that Johanna wouldn’t be there.
Spike (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony (Sings): Johanna…
<>
The night would carry on as Todd and Chrysalis continued their work with the next gentleman who came for a shave. First, Chrysalis would make sure the man was comfortable, removing his coat and a few belongings. Then as soon as Chrysalis wrapped a sheet around the man so his clothes wouldn’t be stained, Todd would carefully lather the man’s face with shaving cream before he went to work.
Todd (Sings): And if you’re beautiful, what then, With yellow hair, like wheat? I think we shall not meet again— (Quietly slit the man’s throat) My little dove, my sweet… Johanna…
<>
Anthony and the group were now walking past the hanging carcasses of the busy meat market. The display of hanging meat made most of the girls sick, especially Fluttershy, while the butcher kept hacking away at one shred of beef minding his own business.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you, Johanna…
<>
Another dead Gentleman lay slumped on the chair after choking on his own blood from the cut. Todd pushed the lever, sent the man down the chute to the depths below the shop, Chrysalis would hurl the clothes down with the man, they’d put the chair back in position… and it would go on repeat.
Down the slums, Anthony and the group were moving past a crowded tenement, redolent of cholera. But they had no time to share their sentiments to the sick. There was ‘one’ person they needed to find, and it seemed they were going nowhere.
Twilight Sparkle (Sings): Johanna…
<>
While Todd and Chrysalis were handling their own end of the work, Mrs. Lovett descended a long and very claustrophobic series of steps down to the bakehouse. She unbolted and pulled aside a heavy iron door and entered without anyone noticing. A fiery red glow spilled out – the roar of the oven within thundered.
The Beggar Woman stood on Fleet Street. The hellish metropolis glowed, the smoke from a thousand chimneys creating a great pall over the city. The Beggar Woman broke in a demented rage.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Smoke! Smoke! Sign of the devil! Sign of the devil! City on fire! (To disgusted passers-by) Witch! Witch! Smell it, sir! An evil smell! Every night at the vespers bell— Smoke that comes from the mouth of hell— City on fire! City on fire… (She begins to scuttle off) Mischief! Mischief! Mischief!
<>
The red glow of sunset filled the shop as Todd and Chrysalis ushered in another customer and prepared to shave him…
Todd (Sings): And if I never hear your voice, My turtledove, my dear, I still have reason to rejoice: The way ahead is clear… Johanna…
<>
Anthony and the group are moving down a dark alley by now. Shadowy figures lurked along the alley walls, some watching what appeared to be outsiders in their turf. But they paid no mind to wandering eyes, the girls and their friends kept searching.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you…
The Mane Six & Spike (Sings): Johanna…
<>
Todd continued his preparations to shave the customer, as Chrysalis proceeded to hand Todd a clean razor for the ‘treatment’.
Todd (Sings): And in that darkness when I’m blind With what I can’t forget— It’s always morning in my mind, My little lamb, my pet…
<>
Anthony and the group now moved past a lonely graveyard, not expecting to find Johanna but to try to be as far from any busy streets, especially with the police on patrol.
Todd (Sings V.O.): Johanna…
Anthony & Equestrians (Sings): Johanna…
<>
Todd (Sings): You stay, Johanna… (Quietly cuts the customer’s throat) The way I’ve dreamed you are. (Notices dusk outside the window) Oh look, Johanna-, (Pulls the lever and the customer disappears) A star! (Tossing the customer’s hat down the chute) A shooting star!
<>
Anthony kept singing as he and his group moved past the graveyard toward a quieter part of London.
Anthony (Sings): Buried sweetly in your yellow hair…
Everyone couldn’t help but feel a bit of dread and are horrified with what was happening
Pinkie Pie: C-Can we go back to the fun adventure now. (She said feeling a bit scared)
Fluttershy: P-Please, let it end soon. (She said with a muffled voice in Arctic shoulder)
Soon, Mrs. Lovett emerged from the bakehouse with a rack of hot pies. She climbed up the stairs, cracking the door open with her shoulder. The fiery roar of the oven within the bakehouse was overpowering…
… and the Beggar Woman scuttled madly along Fleet Street, trying desperately to implore someone, anyone, to listen to her as she pointed frantically toward the smoke over the rooftops.
Beggar Woman (Sings): There! There! Somebody, somebody look up there! (The passers-by just ignored her) Didn’t I tell you? Smell that air? City on fire!
The Beggar Woman approached the pie shop, the agitated music matched her increasing frenzy. She grabbed a stunned Toby – who carried some packages toward the pie shop.
Beggar Woman (Sings panickily): Quick, sir! Run and tell! Warn ‘em all of the witch’s spell! There it is, there it is, the unholy smell! Tell it to the Beadle and the police as well! Tell ‘em! Tell ‘em!
She spotted Mrs. Lovett emerging from the pie shop and exploded in desperation, pointing madly:
Beggar Woman (Sings): Help!!! Fiend!!! City on fire!!!
But Toby merely pulled away from her, as she scuttled off again…
Beggar Woman (Sings): City on fire… Mischief… Mischief… Mischief… Fiend…
Soon she was appealing to other pedestrians, as her mind just flipped.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Alms! … Alms! …
Little had the woman known, Toby did turn and considered the horrible black smoke belching from the chimney of the pie shop. Something about the foul, ebony smoke troubled him. From the steps toward the barber shop, after permitting another customer inside, Chrysalis eyed Toby and noted the way he studied the smoke. A frown formed on her face, as if she ‘knew’ Toby was starting to get suspicious… but for now, she’d keep her eyes on that boy.
Applejack: Smart boy, his starting to get suspicious about all of this
Juniper:…I hope he doesn’t get caught, because if he finds out then he’ll be a pie. (She said with worry)
Meanwhile, Todd was left standing alone, contemplative, slowly and methodically stropping his razor. Another customer had fallen victim to his very blade, his throat slit, his corpse sent to the bakehouse, and thus far, no one had suspected anything was going on. Not that Todd was pondering about whether eventually he’d get caught. All he could think about was the last living person who meant something to him… but the more he killed, the more he slowly forgotten what mattered more to him.
Todd (Sings): And though I’ll think of you, I guess, Until the day I die, I think I miss you less and less As every day goes by…
<>
As day broke along the limehouse, Anthony, along with his friends, trudged past the sinister opium dens and depraved taverns of the East End. The Equestrians did their best to ignore it all together, which proved easier said than done.
Fluttershy (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony (Sings): Johanna…
<>
As the day continued, Sweeney Todd completed shaving a customer… only he didn’t try to kill him. It just so happened that the customer wasn’t alone. He happened to arrive with a wife and daughter, sitting in wait. Though it annoyed Chrysalis to let a patron slip away, when she turned to the corner, she could understand ‘why’ Todd wouldn’t kill him them. It wasn’t so much because they needed to slow down as to avoid arousing suspicion nor they couldn’t kill with a pair of witnesses, Todd looked at them and he couldn’t bear to remove a father away from an otherwise loving family. Seeing them, it briefly reminded him of how he was before he became… this.
Todd (Sings): And you’d be beautiful and pale, And look too much like her. If only angels could prevail, We’d be the way we were. Johanna…
Soon as the customer paid, Todd and Chrysalis ushered them out with the most pleasant smile they could form. But deep down… their hearts were breaking.
<>
Anthony and the group wandered past the high and impenetrable walls of a madhouse, the demented souls within could be seen moving about in silhouette behind barred windows.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you… Johanna…
Something eventually made them stop. The group watched as the man turned, considering the asylum…
<>
Todd shaved another customer, with a beautiful morning just outside the window.
Todd (Sings): Wake up, Johanna! Another bright red day! (Slit the customer’s throat) We learn, Johanna, To say… Goodbye…
As the note continued, Chrysalis pulled the lever and watched the customer disappear down the chute…
<>
Anthony and the Equestrians stared up at the asylum… and through the bars of the window, Johanna herself looked down toward the group sadly.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you…
<>
While the music concluded, Todd picked up the faded Daguerreotype and again sat in his barber chair. He gazed at the picture, lost in revery. Eventually, he sealed the Daguerreotype shut as if permitting himself to draw himself away from painful memories, accepting the fact that his family are better off gone. This hadn’t gone unnoticed, even as Chrysalis cleaned the blades of any blood and discarded all the rags to eventually throw into the fire, she watched Todd reflecting on the life that was taken from him… a sight that made her shed a single tear down her face.
Juniper: They found her!
Pinkie Pie: That’s good, but how’ll they get her out?
Sci-Twi: They can’t be reckless. They’ll need a way for them to get in and out easily without causing to much attention
“Anthony… Twilight…” Johanna whispered, out the window. “How did you find me?”
“We had to sneak around to avoid drawing attention,” Twilight whispered back. “But our guts told us we’d find you here.”
“Oh Johanna… we’re so sorry this happened to you,” Fluttershy sighed sadly.
“Beadle said I could leave if I agree to marry the Judge,” Johanna informed. “I’d rather die… if he should marry me, what shall I do? I’ll die of grief.”
“We have a plan,” Anthony assured her.
“What can we do with time so brief?”
“We’ll fly you out of there, Johanna,” Rainbow Dash assured confidently. “Maybe not tonight, but we’ll set you free.”
“How? They won’t let just anyone get through the gate.”
“Be not afraid, Johanna,” Anthony assured. “I’ll steal you away somehow; I love you.”
“Sir… I did love you even as I saw you,” Johanna reflected. “Even as it did not matter that I did not know your name…”
“It’s me you’ll marry, that’s what I’ll do,” Anthony declared. “When we get you out, we’ll marry at St. Dunstan’s. Hold a private ceremony, and we’ll leave London, go somewhere far away.”
“And we’ll be there to make sure no one tries to ruin this special moment,” Twilight Sparkle promised.
“Twilight… I knew somehow that you’d be there for me one day,” Johanna smiled sadly. “Even not knowing who you were or any of your friends. I feared you’d never come, that you’d been called away by the police. That you’d be killed, had the plague, in a debtor’s jail, trampled by a horse, gone to sea again, arrested by the—”
“Calm down, sugar cube,” Applejack gestured, looking around. “We ain’t gonna be able to git you out now. We have to lie low a while till the police dies down. Once we’re in the clear, we’re getting’ ya out of there in a jiff.”
Suddenly, the girl looked back as she could hear a door opening. Realizing what was coming, she turned back.
“You have to go… now!” Johanna urged. “Hurry! Before they find you!”
Johanna reeled back from the bars, leaving the group only a brief moment to see her. Now they knew where Johanna was, and also aware the place must be heavily guarded, they could only hope that they could put whatever plan they had into motion before something awful happens to their friend. For now… they left the asylum before someone caught on to them. If this plan was going to work, they had to rely on something to keep the public occupied…
Arctic: Hopefully this goes well.. Johanna and Anothoy deserve happiness
Back in Fleet Steet, amidst the chaos ensuing to rescue Johanna, the Beggar Woman sat crouched on her haunches, peering up from under her few greasy locks of hair. She watched something intently. A few pedestrians moved quickly down the sidewalk past her, excited. They chattered back and forth eagerly, the Beggar Woman uncoiled and followed toward what she’d been watching…
Applejack: She’s getting more suspicious.. that ain’t a good sign. (She mentioned)
Fluttershy:(would look up a little bit) I-I’m worried what’s gonna happen to her…
Mrs. Lovett’s wretched establishment had been transformed and things were going better than ever. She had created a modest outdoor eating garden with tables, surrounded by glowing Chinese lanterns. A fresh coat of paint, a few bushes in pots and birds in cages add to the feeling of upward mobility. The entire place had been restored to its former glory as if the shop looked just like ‘new’ again.
Even a new sign hung proudly over the entrance to the pie shop: “MRS. LOVETT’S WORLD-FAMOUS MEAT PIES!”. And then in smaller letters: “LIKE MOTHER USED TO MAKE.”.
Not only that, but the eating garden was also already crowded, the benches at the tables are filled with a whole new assortment of customers eager to try her new meat pies. All the other customers yet to seated stood and milled about. Everyone else was eating, eating, eating…
… The most delicious looking meat pies one could ever imagine. Crispy crust. Thick, luxurious gravy. Tart and tangy meat. The customers take great, hungry mouthfuls; the steaming gravy oozing down greedy faces. Chomp. Chomp. Chomp. But they had no idea of the ‘true’ ingredients amidst all these new pies.
The Beggar Woman stood across the street, just outside the shop, ravenously hungry. She finally got the nerve to approach when Toby, wearing a spiffy new outfit with apron, burst from the shop, and circulated through the customers to stir up more business the only way he knew how… singing.
Toby (Sings): Ladies and gentlemen, May I have your attention, perlease? Are your nostrils aquiver and tingling as well At that delicate, luscious ambrosial smell? Yes, they are, I can tell…
He moved through the greedily eating customers in the outdoor garden and toward the street…
Toby (Sings): Well, ladies and gentlemen, That aroma enriching the breeze Is like nothing compared to its succulent source, As the gourmets among you will tell you, of course.
Soon the boy arrived at the street and drummed up more business:
Toby (Sings): Ladies and gentlemen, You can’t imagine the rapture in store— (Indicates the pie shop) Just inside of this door!
Toby proceeded to lead more customers into the shop and seat them at their own tables. Making his way out the back door to the shop, he returned to the outdoor dining garden. More hungry patrons ravenously ate the meat pies like they were going out of stock. Mrs. Lovett helped to serve the many customers in between, pouring them ale or serving them more pies ‘fresh’ from the oven.
Toby (Sings): There you’ll sample Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies, Savory and sweet pies, As you’ll see. You who eat pies, Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies Conjure up the treat pies Used to be!
As Mrs. Lovett swept from the pie shop with a tray of hot, steaming pies, like her shop, she too had been transformed as well. She wore her somewhat gauche notion of ‘fancy dress’. Buckets of decolletage and her hair had been dyed a rather unique aubergine color.
The Equestrian girls felt sick to their stomach from this as they tried to keep their stomach settled
Pinkie Pie: I-I don’t think I can eat pies for awhile after this…
“Toby!” Mrs. Lovett called out.
“Coming!” Toby replied, pushing past a customer. “’Scuse me…”
“Ale there!” Lovett indicated a beckoning customer.
“Right, mum!”
“Quick, now!”
The customers suddenly exclaimed their joy through awkward mouthfuls of pie:
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Toby scurried inside to fetch a jug of ale, whisking back out and started filling tankards as Mrs. Lovett circulated grandly. She was a bundle of activity – serving pies, collecting money, giving orders, addressing the patrons individually and with equal buoyant insincerity:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Nice to see you, dearie… How have you been keeping?... Cor, me bones is weary! Toby--! (Indicates a customer) One for the gentleman… Hear the birdies cheeping— Helps to keep it cheery…
Suddenly, Mrs. Lovett spotted the Beggar Woman approaching, a grimace came upon her face, and she responded with unusual ferocity:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Toby! Throw the old woman out!
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Nodding in response, Toby grabbed a dish towel and walked toward the old beggar. He shooed the Beggar Woman away, swatting the towel at her, and the homeless woman quickly scampered away from the shop… but soon came skulking back.
Sci-Twi: I don’t know who I should feel bad for more… the customers or the women
Juniper: I say both… because, they don’t know what’s in them pies. As for the women, she starting to get more and more suspicious that could… be her last mistake she made
Rainbow Dash: (gets a bit green) Man, even just hearing them say it’s good is disgusting
Rarity: I’m gonna need a long rested break after this..(she said feeling a bit green)
Applejack: E-Eeyup. (The cowgirl said also turning green)
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): What’s your pleasure, dearie?... No, we don’t cut slices… Cor, me eyes are bleary!... (Toby is about to pour for a drunken customer) Toby! None for the gentleman!... I could up me prices— I’m a little leery… Business Couldn’t be better, though—
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Knock on wood. (And she does) What’s your pleasure, dearie? (Spilling ale) Oops! I beg your pardon! Just me hands is smeary— (Spotting a freeloader trying to sneak out without paying) Toby! Run for the gentleman!
Toby caught him, collecting the money, as Mrs. Lovett turned to another customer:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Don’t you love a garden? Always makes me teary… (Looking back at the freeloader) Must be one of them foreigners—
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good that is delicious!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): What’s my secret? (To a woman) Frankly, dear – forgive my candor— Family secret, All to do with herbs. Thinks like being Careful with your coriander, That’s what makes the gravy grander--!
The customers are getting more rabid now – stuffing in the gorgeous meat pies in great fistfuls—
Customers (Sings): More hot pies! More hot! More pies!
The bell above the barber shop rang loudly as the door opened and Mr. Todd stepped out to the top of the stairs to observe the atmosphere below. Chrysalis stepped out behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder as they stood watching the street hungrily. Sweeney looked at her hand on his shoulder for a moment before placing his own hand atop hers. Just then, he noticed his next customer talking with a smiling Mrs. Lovett, to which Chrysalis noticed too.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Incidentally, dearie, You know Mrs. Mooney. Sales’ve been so dreary— (Spotted the Beggar Woman again) Toby! (Continues with the customer, about Mrs. Mooney) --Poor thing is penniless. (Indicates Beggar Woman to Toby) What about that loony? (To the customer as Toby shoos the Beggar Woman away again) Lookin’ sort of beery— Oh, well, got her comeuppance— (Hawklike, to a rising customer) And that’ll be thruppence – and
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good that is de have you.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): So, she should.
Customers (Sings): Licious ever tasted smell such Oh my God, what more, that’s pies good!
“Well, time to work my own magic,” She grinned wickedly.
Chrysalis soon sauntered seductively down the steps just as the man made it to the bottom of the staircase. He looked up and saw a beautiful blonde lady coming down the staircase, her sleeve tucked slightly to expose a bare shoulder. The poor man was instantly entranced, unaware that his fate was sealed.
Mrs. Lovett & Toby (Sings): Eat them slow and Feel the crust, how thin I/she rolled it! Eat them slow, ‘cos Every one’s a prize! Eat them slow, ‘cos That’s the lot and now we’ve sold it!
Mrs. Lovett hung up a ‘Sold Out’ sign.
Mrs. Lovett & Toby (Sings): Come again tomorrow--!
She soon spotted the man climbing up the stairs, in need of a shave, beckoned by her blonde associate.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Hold it—
Customers (Sings): More hot pies!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Bless my eyes--!
Lovett saw Chrysalis luring the man up to the barber shop. Todd still stood at the top of the stairs. They smiled secretly to Mrs. Lovett as they ushered the man inside. Seeing this brough a smile to Mrs. Lovett’s face, as she realized they weren’t sold out of pies… just yet.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Fresh supplies!
The man soon entered the barber shop as she happily took down the ‘Sold Out’ sign and turned again to the customers:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): How about it, dearie? (Expecting more pies) Be here in a twinkling! Just confirms me theory— Toby--! God watches over us. Didn’t have an inling… Positively eerie…
Toby (Sings, simulatenous with above): Is that a pie Fit for a king, A wondrous sweet And most delectable Thing? You see, ma’am, why There is no meat pie—
Everyone started to feel a little sick now from this as they held their stomachs a bit
Pinkie Pie: Yeah… definitely no pies for a long while
Arctic: Yeah, probably a good call (he mentioned feeling a bit nauseous)
Once again, the Beggar Woman snuck in trying to prove that her crazy theory was true and that there was something off about all this. Mrs. Lovett again spotted the Beggar Woman, and she spun to Toby with truly shocking viciousness:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Toby! THROW THE OLD WOMAN OUT!
Mrs. Lovett watched intently as Toby quickly approached the Beggar Woman and led her away to the front door of the building, closing the door behind her as it locked. The customers, meanwhile, are building to a pure frenzy of mastication – chewing and gulping and snapping at the heavenly pies…
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good that is de have yo Licious ever tasted smell such Oh my God, what perfect more that’s Pies such flavor God, that’s good!!
As the music reached a rousing conclusion, Mrs. Lovett stood at the door to her shop… triumphant. For the first time in her life, her business was a rousing success, everyone was buying her products… and nothing was going to take that from her. Just then, she noticed a customer approaching the counter. Carrying a basket with gloved hands, it seemed to be a woman whose entire framed was covered by faded pinkish dress covering her neck to the tip of her toes. A wide brimmed hat covered her head; her face shrouded in a thick veil.
“Pardon me, ‘dearie,” The woman greeted, raspy like. “Do you perchance have any more of those ‘delicious’ pies? I’d like to buy some to go?”
“Ooh… sorry dearie, we just about sold out today,” Mrs. Lovett spoke regretfully.
Undeterred, the lady reached into the basket and dropped in a pile of coins along the counter. Not wanting to disappoint a paying customer, Lovett turned side to side, leaned down below the cabinet and pulled out a secret pie hidden from prying view. She took a gentle blow on the pie and placed it before the woman.
“Here… have a special one, on me,” Mrs. Lovett insisted.
“Bless yer kind heart, Mrs. Pie lady…”
The lady casually placed the pie into the basket and proceeded to walk away toward the door. Toby unlocked the door allowing the patron to leave, passing the beggar woman who stood out in the dead of the night. The mysterious lady casually placed some coins into the woman’s reaching hands, and the Beggar Woman seemed fixated on the ‘alms’ in her palms. Once far away from the shop, the woman lifted her veil slightly…
Revealing herself to be the humanized Pinkie Pie, briefly looking back toward the shop… suspicion in her eyes as she dropped the veil and passed through the town in secret back to her friends
Juniper: Pinkie Pie? what was she doing there?
Arctic: She probably also notice something is going on, with how popular the pies are with that “special” ingredient… I just hope they found out before they taste it.
The Equestrians Girls and Juniper their heads as they all started to get up and to get some fresh air and more water with Arctic following close behind, before they continue the final moments of the movie
In a short span of a few minutes, Sunny hyperventilated and passed out. I dashed off and grabbed some ice packs and placed them on her head while Zipp and Pipp fanned with their wings.
Hitch checked her pulse and chest for any movements. He sighed when he felt breathing.
Hitch: She’s alive.
Izzy: YES!!!
Pipp: Oh, thank hoofness! (stops fanning, wipes brow) I don’t know how long I can keep this up.
Zipp: I could do this for hours.
Pipp: Of course, you would.
Soon enough, Sunny slowly opened her eyes.
Me: (relieved) Oh, thank God. Sunny, are you okay?
I helped her into an upright position.
Sunny: Y-yeah…maybe…I-I don’t know. (moves into fetal position) I just…I can’t believe that—that Todd and Chrysalis would…it’s not fair what happened to them.
I sighed, hanging my head low. This was going to be a difficult conversation, and I really wished there was a much better time for it—it had to happen sometime—but Sweeney Todd rushed it exponentially.
Me: Sunny, there is something I need to tell you, and it is not pleasant.
I sat down in front of her.
Me: There are some people out there in the world that do and have done some disgusting, despicable acts of evil. Things that you can’t even imagine, me too.
Sunny: Wh-what do you mean?
Me: As you know, Todd, Chrysalis and Lovett are about to go on a murder spree with cannibalized meat pies. But there have been people, real people throughout actual history, who have also done evil acts like them, and some were even worse.
Sunny: (confused and scared) But…but Todd’s just a barber. And his family was taken from him! And his wife was—!
Me: And that’s the thing, Sunny. (sighs) I understand why you’re uncomfortable, anyone would be. Sweeney Todd was sent away and had his family ripped away from him, and yet he comes back and decides to enact his revenge by going on a murder spree. Chrysalis had her love ripped away from her and she decided to enact her revenge by trying to take Shining Armor from Cadance on their wedding day and thereby Canterlot and all of Equestria. Their motivations and backstories are tragic and unjust, I will not deny that, but actions speak louder than words or memories. They chose to use their anger and hatred to hurt and kill innocent people.
Poor Sunny started sobbing, and I couldn’t blame her. Izzy and Pipp offered comforting hugs, Hitch gave a supporting backrub. Zipp however was processing the whole thing.
Zipp: Wait, you said “even worse.” What do you mean by that?
I clenched my fists like I was bracing for impact.
Me: It’s what I have heard called the Banality of Evil: that even the most normal person or creature alive can do the most evil things. And human history speaks for itself. Decades ago, there was a man named Ted Bundy.
I cringed as I mentioned his name, as if so much repressed pain was suddenly resurfaced.
Me: He was handsome and charismatic, with a very convoluted and unfortunate birth and childhood, and intelligent. He was able to charm his way into and out of any situation. (darkens) He was also one of the most infamous serial killers in history.
The entire mood changed.
Hitch: He was a serial killer?
Me: You wouldn’t think that if you looked at the guy, but the evidence and his actions speak for themselves. He would lure women and young girls, kidnap them, torture, rape, and sexually abuse them until he murdered them. No one knows how many he killed, at least thirty last I checked.
Zipp: 30?! At least 30?!
Sunny: Why?! Why did he do it?!
Me: I don’t know! I…I don’t know. Maybe it’s because he loved having control and inflicting fear and pain on others.
Hitch: (sick) This is a lot to take in. Did they ever catch him?
Me: Last I heard, he was caught and sent to prison; I don’t know if he was executed or not.
Sunny: But…but what if…what if…
Me: Just because Ted Bundy was a nice guy to have a conversation with, or because Hitler was a family man and loved his family, or if Jim Jones had a wonderful speaking voice, it does not excuse the horrible atrocities they committed. Neither man showed remorse for their actions, and the world’s better off without them.
The silence was uncomfortable. It was hard for these ponies, who knew sunlight and rainbows, even if they had all been in the grips of systematic paranoia and bigotry for years. Humans by comparison had it much worse, because evil was a fundamental level.
In the silence that followed, we all returned to our seats.
Me: Sunny, I see you’re very uncomfortable so maybe it’s best that you—
Sunny: NO!! (calms down) No…I-I leave without knowing Princess Twilight and her friends will be okay.
Me: (reluctant) All…alright, then. Let’s continue the film.
Maybe Equestria had finally evolved to the point where their technology can scan and identify the exact functions of the brain. I wasn’t holding out any hope, really.
Later that night, a certain group of girls and their young dragon-turned-boy ran about frantically as they helped Johanna pack her belongings so she could finally leave Turpin’s house. They had been packing for a while now, trying to get everything together for Johanna’s long journey with Anthony. By this point, everything was nearly finished as they reflected on how they got to this very moment.
Zipp: Oh, geez. Turpin’s on his way and they have no idea.
Pipp: Dramatic irony at its finest.
Earlier, Anthony had been helping them all pack for the trip. But he needed to leave to ensure all was well on Sweeney Todd’s end of the plan. None were aware of what transpired that day, nor that Turpin was already on his way home at this very moment. Had they’d known what was to come, they probably would’ve left much sooner.
Johanna’s small, white hands were removing clothes from a drawer and placing them into her portmanteau, locking the case shut. She was dressed in her traveling clothes, nearly packed and ready to leave. But as the bag clicked shut, she froze in place and cast a downtrodden look toward the floor. This hadn’t gone unnoticed by the group; Twilight Sparkle especially was the first to take notice.
“Everything alright?” She asked Johanna.
Hearing the lavender pony princess talking to her, Johanna instantly snapped her head in her direction.
“Yes, I’m fine,” Johanna nodded.
“You don’t look very confident,” Twilight replied.
It was at that moment Rainbow Dash stopped in between the girls; her arms full of clothing.
“What’s with the chit chat?” Rainbow asked impatiently. “We need to be packed up before Judge Jerkface gets back from his shave!”
Sunny: (scared) Y-Yeah, eheh…because he never got his shave so he’s coming home early.
Izzy: (gasps) Was that a jinx?
Me: (cringes) I dunno.
“I have to agree with Rainbow on this one,” Rarity interjected. “I’d hate to be anywhere near here when that horrid man returns.”
“And we were warned what will happen to us if he finds us here… twice!” Fluttershy emphasized.
“Don’t worry girls, we’ll get back to it,” Twilight assured them. “I just think Johanna needs some advice at the moment.”
“Well, make it quick!” Rainbow responded, with an eye roll. “Clock’s ticking and our window of opportunity is getting smaller by the minute.”
As the girls resumed their assistance with the packing, Johanna and Twilight sat alongside each other on the former’s bedside.
“What’s troubling you, Johanna?” Twilight asked, concerned. “You’ve been longing to leave this place, and freedom is just minutes away from happening. Why aren’t you happy?”
Sunny: Why is she so sad?
The blonde-haired girl was silent for a moment, contemplating her answer until she faced the princess.
“I’m frightened, Twilight,” Johanna responded honestly. “Despite how oppressive it’s been, this is the only life I’ve ever known. I know nothing about the world beyond these walls, and I have no other family to go home to. What if the world is just as bad, if not worse than Turpin’s? Sometimes it’s best to keep the evil you know rather than stumble blindly into an all new one.”
Me: (cringes) Yeesh…she’s had it bad.
Hitch: Oh, boy.
Sunny: The world’s not all evil. When you have a friend it can be much better.
Izzy: (hugs Sunny) That’s my bestie!
Me: (aside) I mostly kept to myself when I was young. I wasn’t the kind of kid who would go to giant and rowdy parties or hang around giant crowds.
As Twilight gazed upon the poor young girl, her words sinking in, the Alicorn princess had a feeling she knew where this was going. Placing a gentle comforting hand on Johanna’s, she gazed deeply into her friend’s eyes.
“I understand how you feel,” Twilight told Johanna.
“No, you don’t,” Johanna shook her head. “You have friends, family, and even someone you long for. My entire life has been in this gilded cage.”
“That may be true, but I do understand how you feel,” Twilight continued. “You’ve spent your entire life stuck in a bubble and you’re afraid to burst out of it.”
“What do you mean?” Johanna asked curiously.
Sunny: I don’t understand.
Seeing this got Johanna’s attention, Twilight Sparkle released a sigh before explaining herself.
“When I was younger, I was trapped in my own bubble,” Twilight explained. “All my life, I wanted to study and learn everything about magic. That desire took over every single aspect of my life until there was nothing that I cared about more than my books. So many times, other ponies, even Spike, tried to convince me to open up, get out of my bubble for just a moment, and try to make friends. Each and every time, I’ve pushed them away. I had completely isolated myself from a world that went on without me.”
Twilight Sparkle turned her head toward her friends, who were moving about and packing an assortment of supplies. She couldn’t help but give a small smile at the sight.
“Then one day, my teacher sent me to a small town where I met some very kind, and frankly odd, ponies,” She giggled to herself. “Though I was cold and distant toward them, they did everything they could just to befriend me. But I was afraid to step out of what I’d known for my entire life.”
Sunny: …wow. I…never knew that.
Me: I can relate on a personal level. It was nice to be around people I knew and shared common interests with, but most of the time I was on my own.
Zipp: I was like that too.
Izzy: Mmhmm, me too! That was until I met all my best friends!
“What made you change?” Johanna asked.
“It wasn’t until the six of us came together and used the Elements of Harmony to vanquish Nightmare Moon that I realized something very important,” Twilight responded. “You can’t spend your time stuck in your old life; otherwise, you miss out on the chance to make a new one. You miss a chance of not only meeting new people, but potentially new friends.
“Johanna, you have a chance to finally make a new life of your own, with a man who clearly admires you and who you admire in return. Don’t let fear take that chance away from you. You need to stand up to Judge Turpin and stop living your life in a prison. What’s the point of living if you refuse to take any chances?”
A small lone tear slowly slipped from Johanna’s eye and down her cheek as she smiled toward her new friend. She couldn’t even begin to imagine how blessed she had been ever since these new friends came into her life. Friends who only wanted to help her be happy, even risking their own safety for hers. She threw her arms around Twilight, as the emotions finally caved in.
“Thank you, Twilight,” Johanna spoke gratefully. “I needed to hear that.”
“You’re absolutely welcome,” Twilight replied, hugging back. “Now, we really should get back to packing before Turpin returns.”
The two girls pulled away from the hug and were about to start packing once more when the door creaked open, drawing their attention.
“So, it’s true.”
Me: Oh, shit.
Izzy: JINXIE!! JINXIE!!
Hitch: Not good! Get out of there!
Everyone turned toward none other than Judge Turpin himself standing by the doorway. He stared at them all with a cold vacant stare, the disappointment ringing in his voice. Johanna looked on fearfully, but also with determination.
“Sir, a gentleman knocks before entering a lady’s room,” Johanna stated.
“Indeed, he does… but I see no ladies here,” Turpin replied coldly. “Only a litter of harlots and their little ‘plaything’.”
“Hey! I resent that remark!” Spike growled.
Hitch: Dude, he’s a frickin’ child!
“Say that again while you still have teeth, jerk!” Rainbow Dash cracked her knuckles.
But the Judge paid no heed to their words, merely slinking an inch into the room. The remainder of the girls, along with Spike, quickly made their way beside Twilight and Johanna. By the time he entered, he was dangerously quiet… and terrifically hurt.
Izzy: (hiding under the table) Jinxie! Jinxie! Jinxie! That man is jinxie!
“Mea maxima culpa… I told myself the sailor was lying,” Turpin spoke, inching closer. “I told myself this was a cruel fiction… that my Johanna would never betray me. Never hurt me so. I treasured your innocence and loved you like a daughter… but you mocked me, Johanna. Tempting me with your innocence when you’re suddenly a woman, sighing before your window and gazing upon the town. So young, so soft, so beautiful… and you still want to leave me!”
Zipp: You’re an old man and she’s underage! You’re deluding yourself!
Me: (cringes) Ugh~…I have just been reminded of Turpin’s solo song from the original stageplay and was purposely cut for the adaptation.
Pipp: Dare I ask…what it means?
Me: I don’t speak a word of Latin, so no. And I think I’m better off not knowing.
“You speak as though you’re the victim!” Rarity spoke in disbelief. “You act like you’ve never committed a single horrid act toward Johanna, even though…”
The feeling of one’s hand upon her shoulder made Rarity stop mid-sentence and she turned to see Johanna looking at her. A single nod from the blonde made Rarity step back, as Johanna made her way to the front of the group. She remembered just what Twilight said, how she needed to stand up if she ever wanted to walk free.
“Sir… I will leave this place,” Johanna said determinedly.
“I think that is only appropriate,” Turpin nodded. “I cannot keep you longer, the world is at your window, and you want to fly away. Since you no longer find my company to your liking, madam, and I cannot watch you one more day… we shall provide you with new lodgings.”
He stopped just inches from the newly determined young girl and her group of friends, who were ready and willing to fight for their friend.
Sunny: New…new lodgings?
Zipp: I do not like the sound of that.
Posey: Keep that old creep away from me!
“Until this moment I have spared the rod… and the ungrateful child has broken my heart,” Turpin continued. “Now you will learn discipline.”
It was then that the Mane Six and Spike stepped in front of Johanna.
“You have to go through us first, jerk!” Rainbow challenged.
“Trust me, ah don’t think yer gonna get very far,” Applejack added.
“I don’t need to do anything,” Turpin replied. “They will.”
No sooner were those words spoken when the large form of the Beadle filled the doorway, along with a number of policemen entering behind the Judge.
Sunny: (gasps) Does that mean they’re here for Turpin?
Hitch: Wait—oh, no…they’re here with Turpin.
Sunny: Huh?
Hitch: (sighs, glaring) He’s used his influence as a Judge to bribe and manipulate the police as his henchmen.
Me: I mean, there’s a reason why “incompetent police” is a trope of detective mystery fiction and old comic books.
“On my way back, I managed to stop by police headquarters and informed them of you,” Turpin stated. “I warned you what would happen if you came to my home, now you leave me no alternative. You are all under arrest for breaking and entering, trespassing, and conspiracy. I will personally see that you never see the outside world again.”
Turpin looked back toward Johanna with such disappointment, and also a quiet rage.
“I will keep you here forever, the world will never touch you as years pass,” Turpin said. “When you have learned to appreciate what you have, perhaps we shall meet again. You’ll tend me in my solitude, no longer as my daughter, but as a woman. Until then… think on your sins.”
Me: (cringes, seethes) I swear someone, from the holographic memories, is having PTSD right about now.
Zipp: I think Seed and his cult of a family would get along with this guy very much.
Turpin made his way from the room, with a nod to Beadle. The Beadle surged forward and grabbed hold of Johanna brutally. Johanna screamed and fought like a tiger, but to no avail. The Beadle covered her mouth with one huge hand and hauled her out. The Mane Six and Spike did all they could to help, but the police swarmed upon them, subduing them in their tracks. They fought and kicked their way against the police, but the number of officers proved too much. Eventually, everyone was dragged out of Turpin’s house and into the dead of night.
Sunny: No, no, no, no, no, no! They can’t go to jail! They did nothing wrong!
Hitch: Clearly, there’s no reasoning with Turpin. But they gotta do something. Didn’t they spend a year training with the League of Shadows? Surely they put those skills to good use right about now!
Pipp: Where’s Anthony?!
Meanwhile, Anthony was strolling down the street across from the Judge’s house. After Sweeney Todd had blown up at him and demanded he leave, he needed to return to the others and get Johanna out of the house. He could only hope Mr. Todd would calm down enough to still help keep Johanna safe until they could find safe passage out of London.
Just then, the sound of screaming drew Anthony’s attention. He quickly raced down the street toward the front of the mansion. Rounding the corner, he saw a carriage in front of Turpin’s house and Beadle throwing Johanna into it. As the hansom cab pulled away, the last thing Anthony saw was Johanna’s terrified face staring out the window toward him.
“JOHANNA!!!” Anthony screamed.
Anthony saw the Beadle pulling her away from the window, sneering at the man as the carriage clattered off.
Zipp: Well, that’s just great! Now they gotta rescue her again!
Hitch: DO SOMETHING!!!
Izzy: DO SOMETHING!!!
Me: (picking up a fake phone) DO SOMETHING!!! (immediately throws it away)
In that moment, the police hauled the Mane Six and Spike out of the house. All while Turpin stood by the steps of the mansion watching this unfold.
“See to it you lock them up for as long as humanly possible!” The Judge demanded loudly.
Seeing the madness before him, Anthony raced toward Turpin with a murderous rage.
“Where are you taking her?!” Anthony yelled toward Turpin. “Tell me or I swear by God—!”
“WOULD YOU KILL ME, BOY?!” Turpin screamed in rage. “HERE I STAND!”
Anthony’s eyes burned into the Judge—but he was no killer…
*WHAM!!!*
Turpin immediately fell to the ground when something smashed into his face. Clutching his now extremely sore jaw, he looked up to see Twilight Sparkle standing over him with a clenched fist. A police officer tried to grab her, but she concentrated all her magic and sent a huge blast that sent all the officers flying backwards down the cobble streets. Her friends stood there staring with eyes wide with surprise, as Twilight Sparkle turned toward Turpin, who lay upon the ground in horror.
Zipp: (laughs) Yes! I was waiting for that!
Hitch: Wow! Normally I don’t condone violence…but he had it coming.
Sprout: She’s got some strong hooves.
Sunny: …still surprises me every time she does this.
Me: Well, now. Turpin’s afraid.
“What sorcery is this?!” Turpin asked, horrified.
“Magic, Turpin,” Twilight replied. “That was but a small fraction of what it can do. You so much as look at me, my friends, Anthony, or Johanna the wrong way, you’ll learn first-hand how powerful I am.”
Turpin quickly scrambled to his feet and raced back into his home, slamming the door behind him. Twilight Sparkle turned back to her friends and Anthony, who looked at her with shock. This made her demeanor drop with concern.
“I’m sorry… did I go too far?” Twilight asked worriedly.
Sunny: Uh…
Me: Psh! Nah, girl! That was fucking awesome what you just did there.
“Are you kidding?” Rainbow asked with a smile. “That was awesome! Someone needed to slug that creep in the face; I’m just surprised it was you. I mean I knew you had it in you, Twi, and yet—”
“Girls, I think we’re missing the big picture!” Spike interrupted. “How did the Judge know we would all be here?!”
“I thought we had more time,” Fluttershy voiced her concern.
“… It’s all my fault everyone,” Anthony sighed, regretfully.
To which everyone’s attention turned toward the young sailor, who looked down at the ground with shame.
“I let it slip that we were planning to get Johanna out of the house, and the Judge happened to be at Mr. Todd’s,” Anthony admitted. “I tried to get here as fast as I could, to warn you Turpin was coming… but I was too late.”
“Yeah… ya kinda are,” Applejack nodded.
“Really darling, I know you’re the Element of Honesty but please!” Rarity groaned.
Me: Brutally honest.
Hitch: (sighs) I’ve been there before.
“And now because of me, we’ve lost Johanna,” Anthony sighed. “I doubt even Mr. Todd will want to help me because… he got mad at me. And I don’t even know why.”
“Maybe all is not lost just yet,” Twilight Sparkle voiced determination. “We know Turpin is sending Johanna away to a place where she cannot be allowed to leave. We just need to find where they’re holding her and get her back!”
“But how?” Fluttershy asked. “This city is so big, she could be ‘anywhere’!”
“We must find Johanna, Fluttershy. Even if it’s going to take us all night!”
“Then we better hurry before the bobby starts waking up,” Pinkie Pie pointed out. “Luckily, in times like this, a good montage is just what we need to make the trip go faster!”
Me: Yeah, especially with—honestly—the most gruesome musical number of all time.
Zipp: Oh, boy.
Not even bothering to argue or question, they turned and raced after the hansom cab even though it had fled by now. The Judge watched the scene from the window, seeing the group disappearing around the corner and the Bobby’s just starting to wake up. His face fumed with rage beneath his stone face, he knew that as long as they were still loose, they’d be causing trouble. But once word got out there were criminals on the run, there’d be no place to run and hide. He’ll get them even if he has to tear down all of London to do it.
Sunny: I know they will find Johanna, and rescue her. (mumbles) I hope…
Back at the barber shop, Alice Winters (a.k.a. Chrysalis in disguise) slowly climbed the steps toward the door. Creaking the door slowly open, she gazed into the room and found Sweeney Todd all alone. He sat in the barber chair, smoking a pipe. He held an old Daguerreotype; creased, stained, and bleached out.
The image showed his wife, Lucy, smiling and holding Baby Johanna. The child’s features are almost completely obscured by a stain on the picture. Though they expected to be very busy tonight, Chrysalis dared not to disturb him right now. She allowed him to look deeply at the picture as church bells bellowed in the distance. The sound of the bells snapped Todd back to reality, he slowly turned toward Chrysalis so she could read his thoughts. With a slow nod of acknowledgement… they went straight to work.
Me: You know, here’s Chrysalis with Todd getting down on her hands and knees and getting herself covered in dirt and wood dust. Something about him is bringing out a different side to her…it’s so strange.
Together, Todd and Chrysalis were working busily. Sawing, drilling, screwing, hammering. They were doing something not meant to be seen upon the man’s barber chair. They were making all the fine adjustments, tinkering, and building so feverishly. And yet somehow, all this work was making them… happy.
Finally, after making the final adjustments to his chair, Todd and Chrysalis stood back delighted with the results of their tinkering. The ratty old parlor chair had been transformed into a sleek, Victorian barber chair—with unique refinements. And they couldn’t wait to test it on the first ‘willing’ soul stepping in for the ‘last’ shave of their lives.
Pipp: I never took them for carpenters.
Me: I’ve done DIY projects before, but it still impresses me every time.
Sunny: It, uh…looks nice?
Izzy: Yeah, uh…a perfect fixup for…them…
“Is that a chair fit for a king?” Sweeney Todd asked. “A wonderous, neat, and most particular chair?”
“It’s gorgeous, Mr. Todd,” Chrysalis smirked wickedly. “Simply gorgeous.”
“You tell me where a seat is there can half compare with this particular thing!”
“It’s perfect!”
“I have a few minor adjustments to make.”
“You make those adjustments. It’s nearly six o’clock and patrons will be arriving down the block at a quarter.”
“Be prepared, Ms. Winters…” Todd instructed Chrysalis. “I’ve waited for this all day.”
Me: And so it begins. The most grisly number in the whole musical of a bloodbath and a citywide search.
Sunny: Oh, no…
Izzy: Uh…what minor adjustments is he talking about?
Church bells continued to ring as Anthony, along with the Mane Six and Spike, searched the streets along the Mayfair for Johanna. Moving through the contours of the city, the girls and Spike also kept watch for any sign of the police knowing that as of tonight they are officially criminals. In the meantime, their search began in a luxurious area of wealth unaware their trip through the city would take them lower and lower, eventually into the darkest corners of London.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you, Johanna, I feel you. Do they think that walls can hide you? Even now I’m at your window. I am in the dark beside you, Buried sweetly in your yellow hair, Johanna…
And all through the night, they walked as Anthony sang…
Me: Something else is happening simultaneously…
Sunny: What?
Zipp: (scared) It’s…Todd and Chrysalis, isn’t it?
Me:…eeyup.
… Sweeney Todd gazed quietly at the Daguerreotype, now resting on the counter. Eventually, he went right to work shaving a customer, a handsome young gentleman whom Chrysalis positioned on the chair. Todd remained wistful, detached, dream-like… even as he brutally slit the man’s throat as Chrysalis stared at the dying man slumping on the chair.
Sweeney Todd (Sings): And are you beautiful and pale, With yellow hair, like her? I’d want you beautiful and pale, The way I’ve dreamed you were…
Johanna…
While singing, Todd pushed a lever on the newly adjusted chair—the chair becoming a slide—and the Gentleman fell backward, disappearing through a trapdoor in the floor, down a chute—Todd pressed his foot on the lever again and the chair returned to its normal position as Chrysalis quickly cleaned the scene.
Sunny: (cringes uncomfortably)
Izzy: That’s uh…c-clever unicycling! (meekly) I think…
Hitch: Yeah…evil, but clever…
Me: I must admit, that’s rather impressive engineering. (aside) But hey, Syndrome was also an intellectual and technological genius too, and look where he ended up…
Anthony and the group proceeded to walk along the docks, hoping, if not praying, that Johanna wouldn’t be there.
Spike (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony (Sings): Johanna…
Me: Yeah, I can understand why Ember would be put off by songs like this one. It’s just basically repeating her name over and over again.
Sunny: W-where is she?
The night would carry on as Todd and Chrysalis continued their work with the next gentleman who came for a shave. First, Chrysalis would make sure the man was comfortable, removing his coat and a few belongings. Then as soon as Chrysalis wrapped a sheet around the man so his clothes wouldn’t be stained, Todd would carefully lather the man’s face with shaving cream before he went to work.
Todd (Sings): And if you’re beautiful, what then, With yellow hair, like wheat? I think we shall not meet again— (Quietly slit the man’s throat) My little dove, my sweet… Johanna…
Me: So…that’s it? You know that Turpin will never let her go so you just gave up on her? Dude, you are a shitty parent.
Zipp: Uh…yeah, I see your point.
Sunny: Why not…why isn’t he searching for his daughter?
Anthony and the group were now walking past the hanging carcasses of the busy meat market. The display of hanging meat made most of the girls sick, especially Fluttershy, while the butcher kept hacking away at one shred of beef minding his own business.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you, Johanna…
Hitch: I’m not sure about his choice of words. I mean, I get what they’re trying to do, but still…
Pipp: Artistic license? Probably not…
Another dead Gentleman lay slumped on the chair after choking on his own blood from the cut. Todd pushed the lever, sent the man down the chute to the depths below the shop, Chrysalis would hurl the clothes down with the man, they’d put the chair back in position… and it would go on repeat.
Me: “You’re gone, you’re mine”. Christ, man, make up your mind!
Zipp: Uh…to be fair, does he even have a mind to make logical decisions with anyway?
Me: Yeah…fair point.
Down the slums, Anthony and the group were moving past a crowded tenement, redolent of cholera. But they had no time to share their sentiments to the sick. There was ‘one’ person they needed to find, and it seemed they were going nowhere.
Twilight Sparkle (Sings): Johanna…
Me: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) Great, now I’m doing it. Curse my love for musical theater.
While Todd and Chrysalis were handling their own end of the work, Mrs. Lovett descended a long and very claustrophobic series of steps down to the bakehouse. She unbolted and pulled aside a heavy iron door and entered without anyone noticing. A fiery red glow spilled out—the roar of the oven within thundered.
The Beggar Woman stood on Fleet Street. The hellish metropolis glowed, the smoke from a thousand chimneys creating a great pall over the city. The Beggar Woman broke in a demented rage.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Smoke! Smoke! Sign of the devil! Sign of the devil! City on fire! (To disgusted passers-by) Witch! Witch! Smell it, sir! An evil smell! Every night at the vespers bell— Smoke that comes from the mouth of hell— City on fire! City on fire… (She begins to scuttle off) Mischief! Mischief! Mischief!
Pipp: That woman’s creeping me out, and not in a good horror flick kind of way…
Izzy: Do you think she can see the Sparkle of that place? Because I can…and it’s black and burning bright orange. (cringes) So much black and orange…
Pipp: Lots of blood too…
Izzy: (cries into her hooves)
The red glow of sunset filled the shop as Todd and Chrysalis ushered in another customer and prepared to shave him…
Todd (Sings): And if I never hear your voice, My turtledove, my dear, I still have reason to rejoice: The way ahead is clear… Johanna…
Pipp: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) Yeah, it is a bit repetitive…
Anthony and the group are moving down a dark alley by now. Shadowy figures lurked along the alley walls, some watching what appeared to be outsiders in their turf. But they paid no mind to wandering eyes, the girls and their friends kept searching.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you…
The Mane Six & Spike (Sings): Johanna…
Zipp: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) Ah, dangit!
Todd continued his preparations to shave the customer, as Chrysalis proceeded to hand Todd a clean razor for the ‘treatment’.
Todd (Sings): And in that darkness when I’m blind With what I can’t forget— It’s always morning in my mind, My little lamb, my pet…
Me: Well, that guy’s dead now, and we’ll never know what Todd’s gonna justify his death with.
Sprout: (on the ground; fetal position) So much death…!
Anthony and the group now moved past a lonely graveyard, not expecting to find Johanna but to try to be as far from any busy streets, especially with the police on patrol.
Todd (Sings V.O.): Johanna…
Anthony & Equestrians (Sings): Johanna…
Me: (sings) Maria…~! (coughs, then speaks) Sorry, wrong Sondheim musical. God, these songs are so similar.
Todd (Sings): You stay, Johanna… (Quietly cuts the customer’s throat) The way I’ve dreamed you are. (Notices dusk outside the window) Oh look, Johanna—, (Pulls the lever and the customer disappears) A star! (Tossing the customer’s hat down the chute) A shooting star!
Me: This is beyond depressing.
Hitch: (shocked and confused) Just what is he thinking?
Zipp: (dismissive) His mind’s broken, so who knows?
Anthony kept singing as he and his group moved past the graveyard toward a quieter part of London.
Anthony (Sings): Buried sweetly in your yellow hair…
Hitch: Taken out of context, he sounds like a creepy stalker.
Zipp: Yeah, I totally hear that.
Soon, Mrs. Lovett emerged from the bakehouse with a rack of hot pies. She climbed up the stairs, cracking the door open with her shoulder. The fiery roar of the oven within the bakehouse was overpowering…
…and the Beggar Woman scuttled madly along Fleet Street, trying desperately to implore someone, anyone, to listen to her as she pointed frantically toward the smoke over the rooftops.
Beggar Woman (Sings): There! There! Somebody, somebody look up there! (The passers-by just ignored her) Didn’t I tell you? Smell that air? City on fire!
Me: Lady, the London Fire was centuries ago!
Hitch: London was on fire?!
Me: Centuries ago, like I said. So was Chicago, too.
The Beggar Woman approached the pie shop, the agitated music matched her increasing frenzy. She grabbed a stunned Toby—who carried some packages toward the pie shop.
Beggar Woman (Sings panickily): Quick, sir! Run and tell! Warn ‘em all of the witch’s spell! There it is, there it is, the unholy smell! Tell it to the Beadle and the police as well! Tell ‘em! Tell ‘em!
She spotted Mrs. Lovett emerging from the pie shop and exploded in desperation, pointing madly:
Beggar Woman (Sings): Help!!! Fiend!!! City on fire!!!
But Toby merely pulled away from her, as she scuttled off again…
Beggar Woman (Sings): City on fire… Mischief… Mischief… Mischief… Fiend…
Soon she was appealing to other pedestrians, as her mind just flipped.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Alms! … Alms! …
Little had the woman known, Toby did turn and considered the horrible black smoke belching from the chimney of the pie shop. Something about the foul, ebony smoke troubled him. From the steps toward the barber shop, after permitting another customer inside, Chrysalis eyed Toby and noted the way he studied the smoke. A frown formed on her face, as if she ‘knew’ Toby was starting to get suspicious… but for now, she’d keep her eyes on that boy.
Zipp: He might be onto something.
Hitch: He’s a smart kid…hopefully it doesn’t get him killed.
Me: (aside) Or go insane while singing “Patty Cake”.
Meanwhile, Todd was left standing alone, contemplative, slowly and methodically stropping his razor. Another customer had fallen victim to his very blade, his throat slit, his corpse sent to the bakehouse, and thus far, no one had suspected anything was going on. Not that Todd was pondering about whether eventually he’d get caught. All he could think about was the last living person who meant something to him… but the more he killed, the more he slowly forgot what mattered more to him.
Todd (Sings): And though I’ll think of you, I guess, Until the day I die, I think I miss you less and less As every day goes by…
Me: He just keeps killing and killing and killing…and it’s to the point where he’s forgotten why he started killing in the first place, or what brought him back in the first place.
Hitch: (gulps) That is so terrifying.
Pipp: And thought provoking at the same time. (gets looks) What? I like horror movies.
Zipp: This…?! Yeah, it’s pretty horrifying.
As day broke along the limehouse, Anthony, along with his friends, trudged past the sinister opium dens and depraved taverns of the East End. The Equestrians did their best to ignore it all together, which proved easier said than done.
Fluttershy (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony (Sings): Johanna…
Me: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) I swear, I’m getting West Side Story flashbacks.
As the day continued, Sweeney Todd completed shaving a customer… only he didn’t try to kill him. It just so happened that the customer wasn’t alone. He happened to arrive with a wife and daughter, sitting in wait. Though it annoyed Chrysalis to let a patron slip away, when she turned to the corner, she could understand ‘why’ Todd wouldn’t kill them. It wasn’t so much because they needed to slow down to avoid arousing suspicion nor they couldn’t kill with a pair of witnesses, Todd looked at them and he couldn’t bear to remove a father away from an otherwise loving family. Seeing them, it briefly reminded him of how he was before he became… this.
Todd (Sings): And you’d be beautiful and pale, And look too much like her. If only angels could prevail, We’d be the way we were. Johanna…
Soon as the customer paid, Todd and Chrysalis ushered them out with the most pleasant smile they could form. But deep down… their hearts were breaking.
Zipp: Seriously?
Sunny: Heh…h-hey, they spared them. They took pity on them. Maybe they aren’t so—
Me: I’m gonna stop you right there. Because you’re sounding like you’re justifying the many senseless murders of so many other men just because this one guy was spared.
Sunny: But he had a family! Just like…like Todd did.
Me: And Todd would have murdered him had that family not been there.
Sunny: What?
Anthony and the group wandered past the high and impenetrable walls of a madhouse, the demented souls within could be seen moving about in silhouette behind barred windows.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you… Johanna…
Something eventually made them stop. The group watched as the man turned, considering the asylum…
Hitch: Woah. This reminds me of Arkham.
Pipp: Except not so...gothic. And crazy looking.
Todd shaved another customer, with a beautiful morning just outside the window.
Todd (Sings): Wake up, Johanna! Another bright red day! (Slit the customer’s throat) We learn, Johanna, To say… Goodbye…
As the note continued, Chrysalis pulled the lever and watched the customer disappear down the chute…
Me: With how cunning these two are, why don’t they put that to use and go and rescue Todd’s own goddamn daughter?! But no, he’s decided to forget about her.
Anthony and the Equestrians stared up at the asylum… and through the bars of the window, Johanna herself looked down toward the group sadly.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you…
Sunny: (gasps) There she is! They’ve found her!
Izzy: YAY!
Zipp: Wait, where is she?
Me: Shit…that’s an insane asylum. Most likely it’s a segregated one specifically for women only. Yet another outdated social norm.
While the music concluded, Todd picked up the faded Daguerreotype and again sat in his barber chair. He gazed at the picture, lost in reverie. Eventually, he sealed the Daguerreotype shut as if permitting himself to draw himself away from painful memories, accepting the fact that his family are better off gone. This hadn’t gone unnoticed, even as Chrysalis cleaned the blades of any blood and discarded all the rags to eventually throw into the fire, she watched Todd reflecting on the life that was taken from him… a sight that made her shed a single tear down her face.
Me: It’s still so weird to see Chrysalis in a three-dimensional light instead of being yet another one note villainous personality. Honestly, I think she was like that before.
Sunny: I don’t understand.
Me: About why Todd spared that one guy?
Sunny: (meek) Yeah.
Me: It’s possible those other men they killed also had families, and that one man just so happened to bring them to the shop. As if the wind was blowing in the right direction, once in a blue moon. They killed many people with no rhyme or reason, and they just “happened” to be kind this one time.
The poor mare held her head over the table, as if she was going to be sick again.
Sunny: How can someone so normal be so…w-why? >>next
“Anthony… Twilight…” Johanna whispered, out the window. “How did you find me?”
“We had to sneak around to avoid drawing attention,” Twilight whispered back. “But our guts told us we’d find you here.”
“Oh Johanna… we’re so sorry this happened to you,” Fluttershy sighed sadly.
Sunny: (sadly) Poor Johanna. She doesn’t deserve this.
“Beadle said I could leave if I agree to marry the Judge,” Johanna informed. “I’d rather die… if he should marry me, what shall I do? I’ll die of grief.”
“We have a plan,” Anthony assured her.
“What can we do with time so brief?”
Zipp: (deadpan) Really?
Me: Was that meant to rhyme?
“We’ll fly you out of there, Johanna,” Rainbow Dash assured confidently. “Maybe not tonight, but we’ll set you free.”
“How? They won’t let just anyone get through the gate.”
“Be not afraid, Johanna,” Anthony assured. “I’ll steal you away somehow; I love you.”
“Sir… I did love you even as I saw you,” Johanna reflected. “Even as it did not matter that I did not know your name…”
Me: I feel like that’s referencing a song that was not included in the adaptation…
Zipp: Is she serious?
Izzy: It’s adorable!
Pipp: (uneasy) Eh…?
“It’s me you’ll marry, that’s what I’ll do,” Anthony declared. “When we get you out, we’ll marry at St. Dunstan’s. Hold a private ceremony, and we’ll leave London, go somewhere far away.”
Me: This is even stupider than the original Romeo and Juliet, and by extension every adaptation of West Side Story aside from Speilberg’s 2021 remake.
“And we’ll be there to make sure no one tries to ruin this special moment,” Twilight Sparkle promised.
Zipp: Oh, come on! Even she’s in on it! Why?!
Hitch: This whole young love trope is more dangerous than anything.
Zipp: Yeah! You can’t just rush your feelings like this. It’s bound to get you in serious trouble!
“Twilight… I knew somehow that you’d be there for me one day,” Johanna smiled sadly. “Even not knowing who you were or any of your friends. I feared you’d never come, that you’d been called away by the police. That you’d be killed, had the plague, in a debtor’s jail, trampled by a horse, gone to sea again, arrested by the—”
“Calm down, sugar cube,” Applejack gestured, looking around. “We ain’t gonna be able to git you out now. We have to lie low awhile till the police die down. Once we’re in the clear, we’re getting’ ya out of there in a jiff.”
Sunny: You can trust them, Johanna!
Suddenly, the girl looked back as she could hear a door opening. Realizing what was coming, she turned back.
“You have to go… now!” Johanna urged. “Hurry! Before they find you!”
Johanna reeled back from the bars, leaving the group only a brief moment to see her. Now they knew where Johanna was, and also aware the place must be heavily guarded, they could only hope that they could put whatever plan they had into motion before something awful happens to their friend. For now… they left the asylum before someone caught on to them. If this plan was going to work, they had to rely on something to keep the public occupied…
Pipp: How are they going to rescue her?
Izzy: (gasps) Maybe…they can glitter bomb the building and free all of the prisoners!
Me: One: the building’s made of brick and glitter are lighter than feathers. Two: maybe it’s not such a good idea for a mass breakout involving potentially dangerous people?
Izzy: Aw…
Sunny: But what if—?
Me: I said potentially. The truth is we don’t know anyone specifically—besides Johanna—who is in there.
Hitch: I see what you mean. And there could be pandemonium in the streets where many innocent bystanders could get hurt, or worse.
Pipp: (gulps) Dare I ask what Todd’s up to?
Back in Fleet Street, amidst the chaos ensuing to rescue Johanna, the Beggar Woman sat crouched on her haunches, peering up from under her few greasy locks of hair. She watched something intently. A few pedestrians moved quickly down the sidewalk past her, excited. They chattered back and forth eagerly, the Beggar Woman uncoiled and followed toward what she’d been watching…
(Note: just pretend that the film actors are in this song and ignore Sweeney’s lyrics; also that part in the middle about a new chair, and thumping three times)
Me: There’s that whimsical Dies Irae just like with Pirelli.
Mrs. Lovett’s wretched establishment had been transformed and things were going better than ever. She had created a modest outdoor eating garden with tables, surrounded by glowing Chinese lanterns. A fresh coat of paint, a few bushes in pots and birds in cages add to the feeling of upward mobility. The entire place had been restored to its former glory as if the shop looked just like ‘new’ again.
Even a new sign hung proudly over the entrance to the pie shop: “MRS. LOVETT’S WORLD-FAMOUS MEAT PIES!”. And then in smaller letters: “LIKE MOTHER USED TO MAKE.”
Zipp: Don’t tell me: they’re using…what-his-name for the meat part.
Me: Advertisement in the 19th Century is such an ancient marvel.
Not only that, but the eating garden was also already crowded, the benches at the tables were filled with a whole new assortment of customers eager to try her new meat pies. All the other customers yet to be seated stood and milled about. Everyone else was eating, eating, eating…
…The most delicious looking meat pies one could ever imagine. Crispy crust. Thick, luxurious gravy. Tart and tangy meat. The customers take great, hungry mouthfuls; the steaming gravy oozing down greedy faces. Chomp. Chomp. Chomp. But they had no idea of the ‘true’ ingredients amidst all these new pies.
Zipp: This is literally the most uncomfortable I have ever been when watching a movie.
Hitch: (gags) I’ll be fine…this time, maybe.
The Beggar Woman stood across the street, just outside the shop, ravenously hungry. She finally got the nerve to approach when Toby, wearing a spiffy new outfit with an apron, burst from the shop, and circulated through the customers to stir up more business the only way he knew how… singing.
Toby (Sings): Ladies and gentlemen, May I have your attention, perlease? Are your nostrils aquiver and tingling as well At that delicate, luscious ambrosial smell? Yes, they are, I can tell…
Pipp: It’s basically a reprise of his song about Pirelli. Honestly, it fits much better here…
He moved through the greedily eating customers in the outdoor garden and toward the street…
Toby (Sings): Well, ladies and gentlemen, That aroma enriching the breeze Is like nothing compared to its succulent source, As the gourmets among you will tell you, of course.
Soon the boy arrived at the street and drummed up more business:
Toby (Sings): Ladies and gentlemen, You can’t imagine the rapture in store— (Indicates the pie shop) Just inside of this door!
Pipp: He hasn’t lost his way from working with Pirelli.
Izzy: Remember: he was using a fake name.
Pipp: I know that. It’s just I literally can’t remember his real name.
Toby proceeded to lead more customers into the shop and seat them at their own tables. Making his way out the back door to the shop, he returned to the outdoor dining garden. More hungry patrons ravenously ate the meat pies like they were going out of stock. Mrs. Lovett helped to serve the many customers in between, pouring them ale or serving them more pies ‘fresh’ from the oven.
Toby (Sings): There you’ll sample Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies, Savory and sweet pies, As you’ll see. You who eat pies, Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies Conjure up the treat pies Used to be!
Me: That poor kid has no idea what he’s hawking.
As Mrs. Lovett swept from the pie shop with a tray of hot, steaming pies, like her shop, she too had been transformed as well. She wore her somewhat gauche notion of ‘fancy dress’. Buckets of decolletage and her hair had been dyed a rather unique aubergine color.
(1:13) “Toby!” Mrs. Lovett called out.
“Coming!” Toby replied, pushing past a customer. “’Scuse me…”
“Ale there!” Lovett indicated a beckoning customer.
“Right, mum!”
“Quick, now!”
The customers suddenly exclaimed their joy through awkward mouthfuls of pie:
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Audience: WHAT?!!!
Zipp: Do they have any idea what they’re eating?!
Pipp: Apparently not.
Me: Hey! That lyric was from the original stageplay that was cut from the film version! It fits in seamlessly.
Toby scurried inside to fetch a jug of ale, whisking back out and started filling tankards as Mrs. Lovett circulated grandly. She was a bundle of activity—serving pies, collecting money, giving orders, addressing the patrons individually and with equal buoyant insincerity:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Nice to see you, dearie… How have you been keeping?... Cor, me bones is weary! Toby—! (Indicates a customer) One for the gentleman… Hear the birdies cheeping— Helps to keep it cheery…
Suddenly, Mrs. Lovett spotted the Beggar Woman approaching, a grimace came upon her face, and she responded with unusual ferocity:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Toby! Throw the old woman out!
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Me: Looks like Alastor’s making the audience sample the meat pies without their consent…as usual.
Sunny: They won’t…eat them, right?
Me: (shrugs) Can’t say. (rubs neck) Jesus, my throat’s been killing me all night. (drinks lemonade)
Nodding in response, Toby grabbed a dish towel and walked toward the old beggar. He shooed the Beggar Woman away, swatting the towel at her, and the homeless woman quickly scampered away from the shop… but soon came skulking back.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): What’s your pleasure, dearie?... No, we don’t cut slices… Cor, me eyes are bleary!... (Toby is about to pour for a drunken customer) Toby! None for the gentleman!... I could up me prices— I’m a little leery… Business Couldn’t be better, though—
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Knock on wood. (And she does)
(2:14) Mrs. Lovett: (Sings): What’s your pleasure, dearie? (Spilling ale) Oops! I beg your pardon! Just me hands is smeary— (Spotting a freeloader trying to sneak out without paying) Toby! Run for the gentleman!
Toby caught him, collecting the money, as Mrs. Lovett turned to another customer:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Don’t you love a garden? Always makes me teary… (Looking back at the freeloader) Must be one of them foreigners—
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good! That is delicious!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): What’s my secret? (To a woman) Frankly, dear—forgive my candor— Family secret, All to do with herbs. Thinks like being Careful with your coriander, That’s what makes the gravy grander—!
The customers are getting more rabid now—stuffing in the gorgeous meat pies in great fistfuls—
Customers (Sings): More hot pies! More hot! More pies!
Me: Jesus, what a bunch of gluttons.
The bell above the barber shop rang loudly as the door opened and Mr. Todd stepped out to the top of the stairs to observe the atmosphere below. Chrysalis stepped out behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder as they stood watching the street hungrily. Sweeney looked at her hand on his shoulder for a moment before placing his own hand atop hers. Just then, he noticed his next customer talking with a smiling Mrs. Lovett, to which Chrysalis noticed too.
Zipp: Did you guys see that?
Pipp: Oh, yeah. In full focus.
Izzy: What does it mean?
Me: I have my suspicions, but I can’t say for sure yet…
(3:04) Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Incidentally, dearie, You know Mrs. Mooney. Sales’ve been so dreary— (Spotted the Beggar Woman again) Toby! (Continues with the customer, about Mrs. Mooney) —Poor thing is penniless. (Indicates Beggar Woman to Toby) What about that loony? (To the customer as Toby shoos the Beggar Woman away again) Lookin’ sort of beery— Oh, well, got her comeuppance— (Hawklike, to a rising customer) And that’ll be thruppence—and—
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good! That is de—have you—
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): So, she should.
Customers (Sings): —Licious ever tasted smell such Oh my God, what more, that’s pies good!
“Well, time to work my own magic,” She grinned wickedly.
Me: Oh, boy. There she goes again. I’ll bet Shining Armor’s having PTSD flashbacks right about now.
Sunny: Why—oh, it’s about the wedding, right?
Me: Yeah. (aside) And when he and his family, the princess and Twilight’s friends, were held captive in the Changeling Hive.
Chrysalis soon sauntered seductively down the steps just as the man made it to the bottom of the staircase. He looked up and saw a beautiful blonde lady coming down the staircase, her sleeve tucked slightly to expose a bare shoulder. The poor man was instantly entranced, unaware that his fate was sealed.
Me: That poor sucker.
(5:33) Mrs. Lovett & Toby (Sings): Eat them slow and Feel the crust, how thin I/she rolled it! Eat them slow, ‘cos Everyone’s a prize! Eat them slow, ‘cos That’s the lot and now we’ve sold it!
Mrs. Lovett hung up a ‘Sold Out’ sign.
Mrs. Lovett & Toby (Sings): Come again tomorrow—!
She soon spotted the man climbing up the stairs, in need of a shave, beckoned by her blonde associate.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Hold it—
Customers (Sings): More hot pies!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Bless my eyes—!
Lovett saw Chrysalis luring the man up to the barber shop. Todd still stood at the top of the stairs. They smiled secretly to Mrs. Lovett as they ushered the man inside. Seeing this brought a smile to Mrs. Lovett’s face, as she realized they weren’t sold out of pies… just yet.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Fresh supplies!
The man soon entered the barber shop as she happily took down the ‘Sold Out’ sign and turned again to the customers:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): How about it, dearie? (Expecting more pies) Be here in a twinkling! Just confirms me theory— Toby—! God watches over us. Didn’t have an inkling… Positively eerie…
Toby (Sings, simultaneous with above): Is that a pie Fit for a king, A wondrous sweet And most delectable Thing? You see, ma’am, why There is no meat pie—
Once again, the Beggar Woman snuck in trying to prove that her crazy theory was true and that there was something off about all this. Mrs. Lovett again spotted the Beggar Woman, and she spun to Toby with truly shocking viciousness:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Toby! THROW THE OLD WOMAN OUT!
Mrs. Lovett watched intently as Toby quickly approached the Beggar Woman and led her away to the front door of the building, closing the door behind her as it locked. The customers, meanwhile, are building to a pure frenzy of mastication—chewing and gulping and snapping at the heavenly pies…
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good that is de—have you— Licious ever tasted smell such Oh my God, what perfect more that’s Pies such flavor God, that’s good!!
As the music reached a rousing conclusion, Mrs. Lovett stood at the door to her shop… triumphant. For the first time in her life, her business was a rousing success, everyone was buying her products… and nothing was going to take that from her.
Me: Wow. Just…wow. Listening to this film version with the original stage chorus lyrics…I have finally now understood why Sondheim is recognized as the God of Musical Theater.
Hitch: It would be if the subject matter didn’t scar me for life! (gags)
Izzy: I’ll never eat another pie again!
Me: (holds a pie) Blueberry?
Izzy: YES!! (proceeds to gobble it like a bear) THANK YOU, SO MUCH!!!
Me: You’re welcome.
Just then, she noticed a customer approaching the counter. Carrying a basket with gloved hands, it seemed to be a woman who’s entire frame was covered by a faded pinkish dress covering her neck to the tip of her toes. A wide brimmed hat covered her head; her face shrouded in a thick veil.
“Pardon me, ‘dearie,” The woman greeted, raspy like. “Do you perchance have any more of those ‘delicious’ pies? I’d like to buy some to go?”
Sunny: Wait…she looks familiar…
Zipp: Yeah, and I swear I’ve heard her voice before…
Me: I’ve had the same sensation with recognizing actors across different movies and TV shows.
“Ooh… sorry dearie, we just about sold out today,” Mrs. Lovett spoke regretfully.
Undeterred, the lady reached into the basket and dropped in a pile of coins along the counter. Not wanting to disappoint a paying customer, Lovett turned side to side, leaned down below the cabinet and pulled out a secret pie hidden from prying view. She took a gentle blow on the pie and placed it before the woman.
“Here… have a special one, on me,” Mrs. Lovett insisted.
“Bless yer kind heart, Mrs. Pie lady…”
Hitch: Please…don’t eat it!
The lady casually placed the pie into the basket and proceeded to walk away toward the door. Toby unlocked the door allowing the patron to leave, passing the beggar woman who stood out in the dead of the night. The mysterious lady casually placed some coins into the woman’s reaching hands, and the Beggar Woman seemed fixated on the ‘alms’ in her palms. Once far away from the shop, the woman lifted her veil slightly…
Revealing herself to be the humanized Pinkie Pie, briefly looking back toward the shop… suspicion in her eyes as she dropped the veil and passed through the town in secret back to her friends.
Me: (surprised) Oh…did not expect that.
Zipp: Yes! I knew it!
Izzy: (gasps) It must be her Pinkie Sense that brought her here!
Hitch: I…don’t know how I should feel about that.
Sunny: Her Pinkie Sense must have made her suspicious about what’s…(gulps) going on in the shop.
Me: And we have just entered into Act Two. And only so few have decided to leave; I'm holding out for a new record over here.
You'll often hear this phrase during a Catholic confession, and if you've watched Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame, you hear that phrase during one section of "Hellfire"
11665783 Honestly, if you look at the song "Kiss Me"through a more critical lens, as well as the character of Johanna from the stage play, it could be implied that Johanna is so desperate for genuine affection that she's turned a bit mad. So going after a stranger just to escape her guardian's home seems just a touch more sinister.
Me:"Which means we on alarm in case, Post, you and Rex take Azula and Asajj to a holding cell and until the ships ready, X2, have your team on stand by, I'll take care of the jewel"(X2 hands Me the Demon jewel)"we best keep quiet from the others just in case".
11665971 Post: Got it. *uses the Force to put them to sleep, allowing two hidden Ones to grab them* Take them in the stasis cells. That'll keep them quiet. Post, Rex and Hidden Ones take them away.
11666016 Rex and I will take a couple of hidden ones with me to help make sure she's safe. I've already left more hidden ones to guard Azula and Asajj. They're highly skilled and know how to deal with benders and sith. I've briefed and trained them to ensure that doesn't happen.
Me: I must admit, that’s rather impressive engineering. (aside) But hey, Syndrome was also an intellectual and technological genius too, and look where he ended up…
Look on the bright side, he taught us the #1 rule of being a superhero...
11666099 Those three were around for decades so they had plenty of time to know their way around a cape, while Syndrome was just some wannabe with zero experience in the superhero world.
Later that night, a certain group of girls and their young dragon-turned-boy ran about frantically as they helped Johanna pack her belongings so she could finally leave Turpin’s house. They had been packing for a while now, trying to get everything together for Johanna’s long journey with Anthony. By this point, everything was nearly finished as they reflected on how they got to this very moment.
Husk: "I hate to burst your bubbles, bitches. But you ain't goin' nowhere. Your so-called knight-in-shining-armor has gone let the cat out of the bag, and now you're all going to die like Hell..."
Charlie Morningstar: (To Husk) "Think positive, Husk."
Husk: (To Charlie) "I'm positive that everyone are going to die inevitably."
Johanna’s small, white hands were removing clothes from a drawer and placing them into her portmanteau, locking the case shut. She was dressed in her traveling clothes, nearly packed and ready to leave. But as the bag clicked shut, she froze in place and cast a downtrodden look toward the floor. This hadn’t gone unnoticed by the group; Twilight Sparkle especially was the first to take notice.
“Everything alright?” She asked Johanna.
Husk: "No. You're all going to die..."
“Yes, I’m fine,” Johanna nodded.
“You don’t look very confident,” Twilight replied.
Big Mac: "Nope."
It was at that moment Rainbow Dash stopped in between the girls; her arms full of clothing.
“What’s with the chit chat?” Rainbow asked impatiently. “We need to be packed up before Judge Jerkface gets back from his shave!”
“I have to agree with Rainbow on this one,” Rarity interjected. “I’d hate to be anywhere near here when that horrid man returns.”
On the moon
Gallus: "My thoughts exactly about Professor Snape. Though, I hate to jinx it, but I seriously hoped that Dumbledore will have him fired before the next year at Hogwarts starts."
Silverstream: (To Gallus) "C'mon, Gallus. He's not all that bad. Don't forget, he did try to save Harry at the Quidditch game."
Smolder: (To Silverstream) "Yeah, well it ain't like we can expect him to award us any points anytime soon... Those are reserved to Slytherin."
“Don’t worry girls, we’ll get back to it,” Twilight assured them. “I just think Johanna needs some advice at the moment.”
“Well, make it quick!” Rainbow responded, with an eye roll. “Clock’s ticking and our window of opportunity is getting smaller by the minute.”
Angel Dust: "Yeah. Listen to the LGBT bitch. She's got the hair and the tail to show for it, and she knows it."
As the girls resumed their assistance with the packing, Johanna and Twilight sat alongside each other on the former’s bedside.
“What’s troubling you, Johanna?” Twilight asked concerned. “You’ve been longing to leave this place, and freedom is just minutes away from happening. Why aren’t you happy?”
The blonde-haired girl was silent for a moment, contemplating her answer until she faced the princess.
“I’m frightened, Twilight,” Johanna responded honestly. “Despite how oppressive it’s been, this is the only life I’ve ever known. I know nothing about the world beyond these walls, and I have no other family to go home to. What if the world is just as bad, if not worse than Turpin’s? Sometimes it’s best to keep the evil you know rather than stumble blindly into an all new one.”
Husk: "Hmph. Smart bitch."
Angel Dust: "Don't I know it? It's not all sunshine and rainbows in the real world, kid. That's life. And it's already a hell before hell."
Charlie Morningstar: "Still, that's why there's a thing called a leap of faith. You just gotta take the chances, to know you're gonna–"
Angel Dust: (Interrupts Charlie) "Crash and burn?"
Charlie Morningstar: (To Angel Dust) "Fly. I was going to say fly."
Husk: (To Charlie) "Yeah. If humanity was meant to fly, then God would've given them wings. Which he didn't, because he doesn't love us."
Charlie Morningstar: (To Husk) "Or...maybe he just wants us to be more...down-to-earth?"
Angel Dust: (To Charlie) "...And where is Hell again?"
As Twilight gazed upon the poor young girl, her words sinking in, the Alicorn princess had a feeling she knew where this was going. Placing a gentle comforting hand on Johanna’s, she gazed deeply into her friend’s eyes.
“I understand how you feel,” Twilight told Johanna.
“No, you don’t,” Johanna shook her head. “You have friends, family, and even someone you long for. My entire life has been in this gilded cage.”
“That may be true, but I do understand how you feel,” Twilight continued. “You’ve spent your entire life stuck in a bubble and you’re afraid to burst out of it.”
“What do you mean?” Johanna asked curiously.
Seeing this got Johanna’s attention, Twilight Sparkle released a sigh before explaining herself.
“When I was younger, I was trapped in my own bubble,” Twilight explained. “All my life, I wanted to study and learn everything about magic. That desire took over every single aspect of my life until there was nothing that I cared about more than my books. So many times, other ponies, even Spike, tried to convince me to open up, get out of my bubble for just a moment, and try to make friends. Each and every time, I’ve pushed them away. I had completely isolated myself from a world that went on without me.”
Husk: "Yeah. That's how life works. It moves on without you bitch."
Octavia: "Hmmm. I kinda know the feeling."
Loona: [Texts on her phone]: "I was trapped in a pound for nearly 18 fucking years of my life."
Twilight Sparkled turned her head toward her friends, who were moving about and packing an assortment of supplies. She couldn’t help but give a small smile at the sight.
“Then one day, my teacher sent me to a small town where I met some very kind, and frankly odd, ponies,” She giggled to herself. “Though I was cold and distant toward them, they did everything they could just to befriend me. But I was afraid to step out of what I’d known for my entire life.”
Big Mac: "Eeyup!"
On the moon
Princess Celestia: "And I'm glad I did!"
“What made you change?” Johanna asked.
“It wasn’t until the six of us came together and used the Elements of Harmony to vanquish Nightmare Moon that I realized something very important,” Twilight responded. “You can’t spend your time stuck in your old life; otherwise, you miss out on the chance to make a new one. You miss a chance of not only meeting new people, but potentially new friends.
Sunburst: "Story of my sister, Sunset Shimmer..."
“Johanna, you have a chance to finally make a new life of your own, with a man who clearly admires you and who you admire in return. Don’t let fear take that chance away from you. You need to stand up to Judge Turpin and stop living your life in a prison. What’s the point of living if you refuse to take any chances?”
Mina: "Yeah! Just like what Doc's taught me. Life's all about taking chances and making risks. But we need to take the initiatives to make them happen."
A small lone tear slowly slipped from Johanna’s eye and down her cheek as she smiled toward her new friend. She couldn’t even begin to imagine how blessed she had been ever since these new friends came into her life. Friends who only wanted to help her be happy, even risking their own safety for hers. She threw her arms around Twilight, as the emotions finally caved in.
“Thank you, Twilight,” Johanna spoke gratefully. “I needed to hear that.”
“You’re absolutely welcome,” Twilight replied, hugging back. “Now, we really should get back to packing before Turpin returns.”
Angel Dust: "I'm afraid it's gonna happen sooner than ya think, equine bitch."
The two girls pulled away from the hug and were about to start packing once more when the door creaked open, drawing their attention.
“So, it’s true.”
Everyone turned toward none other than Judge Turpin himself standing by the doorway. He stared at them all with a cold vacant stare, the disappointment ringing in his voice.
Angel Dust: "Told ya."
Pharynx: "Well, that's it. We're dead. The whole mission is dead. Our friends are dead. We're all gonna die. Might as well just dig our graves to get it over with."
Thorax: (To Pharynx) "Oh. Like we weren't dead already when you decided to mob Princess Celestia and had her tossed onto the moon before she got the chance to explain herself?"
Pharynx: (To Thorax) "I had a very good reason too. And I say what I did was justified!"
Atalanta: (To Pharynx) "That wasn't justice! That was vigilantism! Also, tossing a monarch onto the moon is like enacting a war with the ponies."
Charlie Morningstar: (To the changelings) "Will you guys knock it off? Can we just focus on the current issue?"
Thorax, Atalanta, and Pharynx: (To Charlie) "STAY OUT OF THIS!"
I have to say, few villains, both from Equestria and from the other worlds our ponies have visited, have managed to piss off Twilight to the point of making her lose her composure, but Turpin hits the jackpot. It was about time someone gave that smug smug delinquent a good punch in the face. They can't stop Johanna from being taken to an asylum (which at the time, was worse than prisons), but at least they know where she is. I hope her plan to get her out succeeds (if a certain guy keeps his mouth shut).
"Johanna" is the best song in the movie for my taste, showing the impact that the same girl has on these two men: The lover who is prevented from being with the love of his life and the father who lost his daughter. Anthony may be the equivalent of Sweeney Todd when he was Benjamin Barker and he met and fell in love with Lucy. But while Anthony prioritizes love and seeks to save Johanna, Benjamin/Sweeney is blinded by rage and wants only to kill Turpin. Speaking of which, seeing Sweeney killing those men who just wanted a shave makes me cringe and pity, and just because he couldn't kill Turpin at the time. And what better way is there to cover up a crime than to make the body "disappear"? "? Mrs. Lovett is capitalizing on this new ingredient to get her business back afloat, with surprisingly positive results (I confess, after seeing this movie for the first time, I didn't eat pies for months, meat or otherwise). class). At least Todd doesn't kill everyone; and although it is logical to think that he does it so as not to have witnesses or to attract too much attention, it is evident that he does it because, despite his madness, he still has some humanity and empathy left.
But as careful as Todd, Chrysalis and Lovett are, they can't fool everyone. The beggar and Toby become suspicious (the poor boy has no luck with his tutors, he run away from the fire to fall into the embers). And what a surprise to see that Pinkie also begins to suspect something. I only hope that when she finds out the truth, she can recover from the trauma she'll have.
Johanna looked on fearfully, but also with determination.
“Sir, a gentleman knocks before entering a lady’s room,” Johanna stated.
“Indeed, he does… but I see no ladies here,” Turpin replied coldly. “Only a litter of harlots and their little ‘plaything’.”
Granny Smith: "Harlots?! My flank!"
Big Mac & Sugar Belle: (To Granny Smith) "GRANNY!"
Granny Smith: (To Big Mac and Sugar Belle) "What? Them's fightin' words...
“Hey! I resent that remark!” Spike growled.
Angel Dust: "Mmmmm. I could just fuck myself looking at that ass all day."
“Say that again while you still have teeth, jerk!” Rainbow Dash cracked her knuckles.
But the Judge paid no heed to their words, merely slinking an inch into the room. The remainder of the girls, along with Spike, quickly made their way beside Twilight and Johanna. By the time he entered, he was dangerously quiet… and terrifically hurt.
“Mea maxima culpa… I told myself the sailor was lying,” Turpin spoke, inching closer. “I told myself this was a cruel fiction… that my Johanna would never betray me. Never hurt me so. I treasured your innocence and loved you like a daughter… but you mocked me, Johanna. Tempting me with your innocence when you’re suddenly a woman, sighing before your window and gazing upon the town. So young, so soft, so beautiful… and you still want to leave me!”
Vaggie: "I'm sure any damsels-in-distress would rather be somewhere else than with you..."
On the moon
Gallus: "...Uh. No offense, Professor Snape. But you're more of a grandpa than a father..."
“You speak as though you’re the victim!” Rarity spoke in disbelief. “You act like you’ve never committed a single horrid act toward Johanna, even though…”
The feeling of one’s hand upon her shoulder made Rarity stop mid-sentence and she turned to see Johanna looking at her. A single nod from the blonde made Rarity step back, as Johanna made her way to the front of the group. She remembered just what Twilight said, how she needed to stand up if she ever wanted to walk free.
“Sir… I will leave this place,” Johanna said determinedly.
Charlie Morningstar: "You tell him, Johanna!"
On the moon
Silverstream: "YEAH!"
“I think that only appropriate,” Turpin nodded. “I cannot keep you longer, the world is at your window, and you want to fly away. Since you no longer find my company to your liking, madam, and I cannot watch you one more day… we shall provide you with new lodgings.”
Vaggie: "...Say what?"
He stopped just inches from the newly determined young girl and her group of friends, who were ready and willing to fight for their friend.
“Until this moment I have spared the rod… and the ungrateful child has broken my heart,” Turpin continued. “Now you will learn discipline.”
Sweetie Belle: "Uh...I know I'm going to regret asking this but...what does he mean by that?"
Octavia: "Uh oh. I've seen this before with mom."
It was then that the Mane Six and Spike stepped in front of Johanna.
“You have to go through us first, jerk!” Rainbow challenged.
“Trust me, ah don’t think yer gonna get very far,” Applejack added.
“I don’t need to do anything,” Turpin replied. “They will.”
No sooner were those words spoken when the large form of the Beadle filled the doorway, along with a number of policemen entering behind the Judge.
Audience: "OH NOOOOO!!!!"
“On my way back, I managed to stop by police headquarters and informed them of you,” Turpin stated. “I warned you what would happen if you came to my home, now you leave me no alternative. You are all under arrest for breaking and entering, trespassing, and conspiracy. I will personally see that you never see the outside world again.”
Party Favor: "No! YOU CAN'T ARREST OUR FRIENDS! You haven't even read their rights yet! You've skipped the part where you're supposed to read: You all have the right to remain silent! Any words you say will and can be used against you!"
Husk: (To Party Favor) "They do have the right to remain silent, dipshit. It's just the pink bimbo who is lacking the capacity."
Cheese Sandwich: (To Husk) "What'd you say about my wife?!"
Turpin looked back toward Johanna with such disappointment, and also a quiet rage.
“I will keep you here forever, the world will never touch you as years pass,” Turpin said. “When you have learned to appreciate what you have, perhaps we shall meet again. You’ll tend me in my solitude, no longer as my daughter, but as a woman. Until then… think on your sins.”
Turpin made his way from the room, with a nod to Beadle. The Beadle surged forward and grabbed hold of Johanna brutally. Johanna screamed and fought like a tiger, but to no avail. The Beadle covered her mouth with one huge hand and hauled her out. The Mane Six and Spike did all they could to help, but the police swarmed upon them subduing them in their tracks. They fought and kicked their way against the police, but the number of officers proved too much. Eventually, everyone was dragged out of Turpin’s house and into the dead of night.
Charlie Morningstar: "NOOOOOOO!!!!"
Angel Dust: "...Are you sure those bitches and Spikey-Wikey are the Equestrian Heroes? I'm no good guy, but I'm pretty sure this is the part where the heroes throw off their secret identities and fight the bad guys with their superpowers and rescue the damsel-in-distress..."
Discord: "...Yes. And this is also what we the writers call a plot hole."
Loona: [Texts to Discord] "You mean an asshole?"
Discord: (To Loona) "Not like that! Dirty hoe!"
Alastor: "Put that dog out! She's in a time out!" (Snaps his finger)
Loona gets tossed!
Loona was NOT an imposter.
Derick: (To Alastor) "Was that necessary? She was our friend!"
Alastor: (To Derick) "Oh most indeedy, my dear boy! I don't like dogs, and dogs don't like me. In fact..."
Loona: [Texts on her phone] "Discord's Theater is getting a one star review."
Ocellus: "The moon's getting very crowded."
Princess Celestia: "I'm sure it was very lonely when Luna was here."
Loona: [Texts on her phone] "You talking about me?"
Meanwhile, Anthony was strolling down the street across from the Judge’s house. After Sweeney Todd had blown up at him and demanded he leave, he needed to return to the others and get Johanna out of the house. He could only hope Mr. Todd would calm down enough to still help keep Johanna safe until they could find safe passage out of London.
Just then, the sound of screaming drew Anthony’s attention. He quickly raced down the street toward the front of the mansion. Rounding the corner, he saw a carriage in front of Turpin’s house and Beadle throwing Johanna into it. As the hansom cab pulled away, the last thing Anthony saw was Johanna’s terrified face staring out the window toward him.
“JOHANNA!!!” Anthony screamed.
Gilda: "Don't just stand there gawking! SAVE HER!"
Anthony saw the Beadle pulling her away from the window, sneering at the man as the carriage clattered off. In that moment, the police hauled the Mane Six and Spike out of the house. All while Turpin stood by the steps of the mansion watching this unfold.
“See to it you lock them up for as long as humanly possible!” The Judge demanded loudly.
Seeing the madness before him, Anthony raced toward Turpin with a murderous rage.
“Where are you taking her?!” Anthony yelled toward Turpin. “Tell me or I swear by God--!”
“WOULD YOU KILL ME, BOY?!” Turpin screamed in rage. “HERE I STAND!”
On the moon
Silverstream: (Singing) "In the light of day~"
Anthony’s eyes burned into the Judge – but he was no killer…
*WHAM!!!*
Turpin immediately fell to the ground when something smashed into his face. Clutching his now extremely sore jaw, he looked up to see Twilight Sparkle standing over him with a clenched fist.
Audience: "Ooooh!!"
Princess Cadence: (Impressed) "Wow! Twilight!"
Shining Armor: "That's my sister!"
Husk: "Well, the bitch can bite after all."
A police officer tried to grab her, but she concentrated all her magic and sent a huge blast that sent all the officers flying backwards down the cobble streets.
Flurry Heart: "GO AUNT TWILIGHT!"
Bulk Biceps: "YEEEEEEAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!"
Her friends stood there staring with eyes wide with surprise, as Twilight Sparkle turned toward Turpin, who lay upon the ground in horror.
Charlie Morningstar: "Alright, Twilight!" (Her eyes turn demonic) "CRUSH HIIIIIIIIMMMM!!!!" (Looks at the surprised looks from Vaggie and her friends) "Well, I want her to win."
“What sorcery is this?!” Turpin asked horrified.
“Magic, Turpin,” Twilight replied. “That was but a small fraction of what it can do. You so much as look at me, my friends, Anthony, or Johanna the wrong way, you’ll learn first-hand how powerful I am.”
Turpin quickly scrambled to his feet and raced back into his home, slamming the door behind him.
On the moon
Gallus: "Yeah, that's right, Professor Snape! Go home and cry to your mommy!"
Twilight Sparkle turned back to her friends and Anthony, who looked at her with shock. This made her demeanor drop with concern.
“I’m sorry… did I go too far?” Twilight asked worriedly.
Big Mac: "Nope!"
Discord: "I'd give you ten points...if you were a Hufflepuff..."
“Are you kidding?” Rainbow asked with a smile. “That was awesome!"
Bulk Biceps: "YEEEEEAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!"
On the moon
Loona: (Tries to howl) "Arf...ar...aroo...aroo..." *Clears her throat* "Arooo....HRK!" *Coughs* [Texts on her phone to howl for her]
*Wolf Howling SFX*
Katherine Proudpaws: (Gives Loona a cup of tea) "Sore throat? Here, have some tea."
"...Someone needed to slug that creep in the face; I’m just surprised it was you. I mean I knew you had it in you, Twi, and yet—”
“Girls, I think we’re missing the big picture!” Spike interrupted. “How did the Judge know we would all be here?!”
“I thought we had more time,” Fluttershy voiced her concern.
“… It’s all my fault everyone,” Anthony sighed, regretfully.
To which everyone’s attention turned toward the young sailor, who looked down at the ground with shame.
“I let it slip that we were planning to get Johanna out of the house, and the Judge happened to be at Mr. Todd’s,” Anthony admitted. “I tried to get here as fast as I could, to warn you Turpin was coming… but I was too late.”
Husk: (Sarcasm) "No...ya think?"
“Yeah… ya kinda are,” Applejack nodded.
“Really darling, I know you’re the Element of Honesty but please!” Rarity groaned.
Crazy Steve: "You want the truth? YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH!"
“And now because of me, we’ve lost Johanna,” Anthony sighed. “I doubt even Mr. Todd will want to help me because… he got mad at me. And I don’t even know why.”
“Maybe all is not lost just yet,” Twilight Sparkle voiced determination. “We know Turpin is sending Johanna away to a place where she cannot be allowed to leave. We just need to find where they’re holding her and get her back!”
“But how?” Fluttershy asked. “This city is so big, she could be ‘anywhere’!”
“We must find Johanna, Fluttershy. Even if it’s going to take us all night!”
“Then we better hurry before the bobby starts waking up,” Pinkie Pie pointed out. “Luckily, in times like this, a good montage is just what we need to make the trip go faster!”
Alastor: "Under normal circumstances, it would've been as simple as to skip across the entire pages and chapters to the very end of the story. But why bother spoiling the surprises? We're barely scratching the surfaces to the good part it seems."
On the moon
Silverstream: "Oh wow! This is getting so intense! The suspense is killing me! I hope they find Johanna and save her before it's too late!"
Smolder: "As long as they don't screw up, like that time with Sunset Shimmer...then yeah, they'll find Johanna and save her before it's too late."
Gallus: (To Silverstream) "Don't worry, Silver. I'm sure they will. I know I would do the same for you."
Silverstream: (To Gallus) "Really?"
Gallus: (To Silverstream) "For sure! Because for what it's worth, you're a girl worth fighting for, and I'll be your hero."
I'll Be Your Hero
… I'm no Superman, I can't take your hand Can't fly you anywhere you wanna go, yeah I can't read your mind like a billboard sign And tell you everything you wanna hear, but I'll be your hero I, I can be everything you need If you're the one for me
… Like gravity, I will be unstoppable I, yeah I believe in destiny I may be an ordinary guy without his soul But if you're the one for me Then I'll be your hero Could you be the one? Could you be the one?
… Could you be the one for me?
… Then I'll be your hero
… Could you be the one? Could you be the one? Could you be the one for me?
… Then I'll be your hero
… Searchin' high and low Tryin' every road But if I see your face, I won't ignore it
… I put my trust to fate That two will come away And if it's right, it's undeniable, yeah I'll be your hero I, I can be everything you need
… If you're the one for me Like gravity, I will be unstoppable I, yeah I believe in destiny I may be an ordinary guy without his soul
… But if you're the one for me Then I'll be your hero Could you be the one? Could you be the one? Could you be the one for me? I'll be your hero Could you be the one? Could you be the one? Could you be the one for me? Yeah, I'll be your hero So incredible, some kind of miracle That when it's meant to be I will become a hero So I'll wait, wait, wait, wait for you Yeah, I'll be your hero I, I can be everything you need If you're the one for me Like gravity, I will be unstoppable I, yeah I believe in destiny I may be an ordinary guy without his soul But if you're the one for me Then I'll be your hero Could you be the one? Could you be the one? Could you be the one for me? Then I'll be your hero Could you be the one? Could you be the one? Could you be the one for me? Then I'll be your hero
Back at the barber shop, Alice Winters (a.k.a. Chrysalis in disguise) slowly climbed the steps toward the door. Creaking the door slowly open, she gazed into the room and found Sweeney Todd all alone. He sat in the barber chair, smoking a pipe. He held an old Daguerreotype; creased, stained, and bleached out.
The image showed his wife, Lucy, smiling and holding Baby Johanna. The child’s features are almost completely obscured by a stain on the picture. Though they expected to be very busy tonight, Chrysalis dared not to disturb him right now. She allowed him to look deeply at the picture as church bells bellowed in the distance. The sound of the bells snapped Todd back to reality, he slowly turned toward Chrysalis so she could read his thoughts. With a slow nod of acknowledgement… they went straight to work.
Together, Todd and Chrysalis were working busily. Sawing, drilling, screwing, hammering. They were doing something not meant to be seen upon the man’s barber chair. They were making all the fine adjustments, tinkering, and building so feverishly. And yet somehow, all this work was making them… happy.
Thorax: "Then why am I not smiling?"
Finally, after making the final adjustments to his chair, Todd and Chrysalis stood back delighted with the results of their tinkering. The ratty old parlor chair had been transformed into a sleek, Victorian barber chair – with unique refinements. And they couldn’t wait to test it on the first ‘willing’ soul stepping in for the ‘last’ shave of their lives.
“Is that a chair fit for a king?” Sweeney Todd asked. “A wonderous, neat, and most particular chair?”
“It’s gorgeous, Mr. Todd,” Chrysalis smirked wickedly. “Simply gorgeous.”
“You tell me where a seat is there can half compare with this particular thing!”
“It’s perfect!”
“I have a few minor adjustments to make.”
“You make those adjustments. It’s nearly six o’clock and patrons will be arriving down the block at a quarter.”
“Be prepared, Ms. Winters…” Todd instructed Chrysalis. “I’ve waited for this all day.”
Pharynx: "Yeah! Be prepared! You'll be she's prepared! ....For what?"
Church bells continued to ring as Anthony, along with the Mane Six and Spike, searched the streets along the Mayfair for Johanna. Moving through the contours of the city, the girls and Spike also kept watch for any sign of the police knowing that as of tonight they are officially criminals.
Silverstream: "Like Robin Hood and Little John?"
Smolder: (To Silverstream) "You and Gallus are way into that Disney movie, y'know?"
Silverstream: (To Smolder) "Well, you've got to admit. The songs are catchy!"
Sandbar: (To Smolder) "Can't argue there."
Yona: (Agrees with Sandbar) "Yona like Hamsterdance song!"
In the meantime, their search began in a luxurious area of wealth unaware their trip through the city would take them lower and lower, eventually into the darkest corners of London.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you, Johanna, I feel you. Do they think that walls can hide you? Even now I’m at your window. I am in the dark beside you, Buried sweetly in your yellow hair, Johanna…
And all through the night, they walked as Anthony sang…
Vaggie: "So close, yet so far away..."
… Sweeney Todd gazed quietly at the Daguerreotype, now resting on the counter. Eventually, he went right to work shaving a customer, a handsome young gentleman whom Chrysalis positioned on the chair. Todd remained wistful, detached, dream-like… even as he brutally slit the man’s throat as Chrysalis stared at the dying man slumping on the chair.
Sweeney Todd (Sings): And are you beautiful and pale, With yellow hair, like her? I’d want you beautiful and pale, The way I’ve dreamed you were…
Johanna…
While singing, Todd pushed a lever on the newly adjusted chair – the chair becoming a slide – and the Gentleman fell backward, disappearing through a trapdoor in the floor, down a chute – Todd pressed his foot on the lever again and the chair returned to its normal position as Chrysalis quickly cleaned the scene.
Atlanta: "What are you up to this time, mother?"
Anthony and the group proceeded to walk along the docks, hoping, if not praying, that Johanna wouldn’t be there.
Spike (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony (Sings): Johanna…
Charlie: (Sings) "Johanna..."
On the moon
Gallus & Silverstream: (Sings) "Johanna..."
The night would carry on as Todd and Chrysalis continued their work with the next gentleman who came for a shave. First, Chrysalis would make sure the man was comfortable, removing his coat and a few belongings. Then as soon as Chrysalis wrapped a sheet around the man so his clothes wouldn’t be stained, Todd would carefully lather the man’s face with shaving cream before he went to work.
Todd (Sings): And if you’re beautiful, what then, With yellow hair, like wheat? I think we shall not meet again— (Quietly slit the man’s throat) My little dove, my sweet… Johanna…
Alastor: "You know... I used to hate facial hair, but THEN IT GREW ON ME! HA HA!"
Angel Dust: "...What the fuck?"
Charlie Morningstar: "Really, Al? Now's a time for you to make jokes?"
Anthony and the group were now walking past the hanging carcasses of the busy meat market. The display of hanging meat made most of the girls sick, especially Fluttershy, while the butcher kept hacking away at one shred of beef minding his own business.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you, Johanna…
Alastor: "Mmmm-mmm! Those meats are looking good. I should pop in on that butcher shop sometimes for some nice fat steaks and venison."
Another dead Gentleman lay slumped on the chair after choking on his own blood from the cut. Todd pushed the lever, sent the man down the chute to the depths below the shop, Chrysalis would hurl the clothes down with the man, they’d put the chair back in position… and it would go on repeat.
Charlie Morningstar: "He's throwing away a promising career!"
Octavia: "They've gone crackers!"
Down the slums, Anthony and the group were moving past a crowded tenement, redolent of cholera. But they had no time to share their sentiments to the sick. There was ‘one’ person they needed to find, and it seemed they were going nowhere.
Twilight Sparkle (Sings): Johanna…
Silverstream: (Sings) "Johanna..."
Loona: (Tries to sing) "Jo...Jo...Jo..."
While Todd and Chrysalis were handling their own end of the work, Mrs. Lovett descended a long and very claustrophobic series of steps down to the bakehouse. She unbolted and pulled aside a heavy iron door and entered without anyone noticing. A fiery red glow spilled out – the roar of the oven within thundered.
The Beggar Woman stood on Fleet Street. The hellish metropolis glowed, the smoke from a thousand chimneys creating a great pall over the city. The Beggar Woman broke in a demented rage.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Smoke! Smoke! Sign of the devil! Sign of the devil! City on fire! (To disgusted passers-by) Witch! Witch! Smell it, sir! An evil smell! Every night at the vespers bell— Smoke that comes from the mouth of hell— City on fire! City on fire… (She begins to scuttle off) Mischief! Mischief! Mischief!
Alastor: :D
The red glow of sunset filled the shop as Todd and Chrysalis ushered in another customer and prepared to shave him…
Todd (Sings): And if I never hear your voice, My turtledove, my dear, I still have reason to rejoice: The way ahead is clear… Johanna…
Atlanta: "I can't watch this..." (Covers her eyes)
Anthony and the group are moving down a dark alley by now. Shadowy figures lurked along the alley walls, some watching what appeared to be outsiders in their turf. But they paid no mind to wandering eyes, the girls and their friends kept searching.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you…
The Mane Six & Spike (Sings): Johanna…
<>
Todd continued his preparations to shave the customer, as Chrysalis proceeded to hand Todd a clean razor for the ‘treatment’.
Todd (Sings): And in that darkness when I’m blind With what I can’t forget— It’s always morning in my mind, My little lamb, my pet…
Alastor: "Ha ha ha! Good man! Do remember to get the skins off. I want fresh meat! Not bubblegum."
Anthony and the group now moved past a lonely graveyard, not expecting to find Johanna but to try to be as far from any busy streets, especially with the police on patrol.
Todd (Sings V.O.): Johanna…
Anthony & Equestrians (Sings): Johanna…
<>
Todd (Sings): You stay, Johanna… (Quietly cuts the customer’s throat) The way I’ve dreamed you are. (Notices dusk outside the window) Oh look, Johanna-, (Pulls the lever and the customer disappears) A star! (Tossing the customer’s hat down the chute) A shooting star!
<>
Anthony kept singing as he and his group moved past the graveyard toward a quieter part of London.
Anthony (Sings): Buried sweetly in your yellow hair…
<>
Soon, Mrs. Lovett emerged from the bakehouse with a rack of hot pies. She climbed up the stairs, cracking the door open with her shoulder. The fiery roar of the oven within the bakehouse was overpowering…
… and the Beggar Woman scuttled madly along Fleet Street, trying desperately to implore someone, anyone, to listen to her as she pointed frantically toward the smoke over the rooftops.
Beggar Woman (Sings): There! There! Somebody, somebody look up there! (The passers-by just ignored her) Didn’t I tell you? Smell that air? City on fire!
The Beggar Woman approached the pie shop, the agitated music matched her increasing frenzy. She grabbed a stunned Toby – who carried some packages toward the pie shop.
Beggar Woman (Sings panickily): Quick, sir! Run and tell! Warn ‘em all of the witch’s spell! There it is, there it is, the unholy smell! Tell it to the Beadle and the police as well! Tell ‘em! Tell ‘em!
She spotted Mrs. Lovett emerging from the pie shop and exploded in desperation, pointing madly:
Beggar Woman (Sings): Help!!! Fiend!!! City on fire!!!
But Toby merely pulled away from her, as she scuttled off again…
Beggar Woman (Sings): City on fire… Mischief… Mischief… Mischief… Fiend…
Soon she was appealing to other pedestrians, as her mind just flipped.
Beggar Woman (Sings): Alms! … Alms! …
Little had the woman known, Toby did turn and considered the horrible black smoke belching from the chimney of the pie shop. Something about the foul, ebony smoke troubled him. From the steps toward the barber shop, after permitting another customer inside, Chrysalis eyed Toby and noted the way he studied the smoke. A frown formed on her face, as if she ‘knew’ Toby was starting to get suspicious… but for now, she’d keep her eyes on that boy.
<>
Meanwhile, Todd was left standing alone, contemplative, slowly and methodically stropping his razor. Another customer had fallen victim to his very blade, his throat slit, his corpse sent to the bakehouse, and thus far, no one had suspected anything was going on.
Vaggie: "You would not believe how many serial killers have gotten away with murder."
Angel Dust: (To Vaggie) "Speaking from bad experience?"
Octavia: (To Vaggie) "Which is also why Loona's people runs an assassins business to kill people."
Not that Todd was pondering about whether eventually he’d get caught. All he could think about was the last living person who meant something to him… but the more he killed, the more he slowly forgotten what mattered more to him.
Todd (Sings): And though I’ll think of you, I guess, Until the day I die, I think I miss you less and less As every day goes by…
<>
As day broke along the limehouse, Anthony, along with his friends, trudged past the sinister opium dens and depraved taverns of the East End. The Equestrians did their best to ignore it all together, which proved easier said than done.
Fluttershy (Sings): Johanna…
Anthony (Sings): Johanna…
<>
As the day continued, Sweeney Todd completed shaving a customer… only he didn’t try to kill him. It just so happened that the customer wasn’t alone. He happened to arrive with a wife and daughter, sitting in wait. Though it annoyed Chrysalis to let a patron slip away, when she turned to the corner, she could understand ‘why’ Todd wouldn’t kill him them. It wasn’t so much because they needed to slow down as to avoid arousing suspicion nor they couldn’t kill with a pair of witnesses, Todd looked at them and he couldn’t bear to remove a father away from an otherwise loving family.
Charlie Morningstar: "Well, it's reassuring to see he isn't too far off gone..."
Seeing them, it briefly reminded him of how he was before he became… this.
Todd (Sings): And you’d be beautiful and pale, And look too much like her. If only angels could prevail, We’d be the way we were. Johanna…
Soon as the customer paid, Todd and Chrysalis ushered them out with the most pleasant smile they could form. But deep down… their hearts were breaking.
Atlanta: "But for mom...her's had been breaking for over a thousand years. That's a fate worse than death."
Anthony and the group wandered past the high and impenetrable walls of a madhouse, the demented souls within could be seen moving about in silhouette behind barred windows.
Anthony (Sings): I feel you… Johanna…
Something eventually made them stop. The group watched as the man turned, considering the asylum…
On the moon
Silverstream: (To Gallus) "Gallus? Do you think?"
Gallus: (To Silverstream) "...Maybe. But hoping, maybe not?"
Todd shaved another customer, with a beautiful morning just outside the window.
Todd (Sings): Wake up, Johanna! Another bright red day! (Slit the customer’s throat) We learn, Johanna, To say… Goodbye…
As the note continued, Chrysalis pulled the lever and watched the customer disappear down the chute…
<>
Anthony and the Equestrians stared up at the asylum… and through the bars of the window, Johanna herself looked down toward the group sadly.
Anthony (Sings): I’ll steal you…
Capper Dapperpaw: "Eureka! They've found her!"
While the music concluded, Todd picked up the faded Daguerreotype and again sat in his barber chair. He gazed at the picture, lost in revery. Eventually, he sealed the Daguerreotype shut as if permitting himself to draw himself away from painful memories, accepting the fact that his family are better off gone. This hadn’t gone unnoticed, even as Chrysalis cleaned the blades of any blood and discarded all the rags to eventually throw into the fire, she watched Todd reflecting on the life that was taken from him… a sight that made her shed a single tear down her face.
“Anthony… Twilight…” Johanna whispered, out the window. “How did you find me?”
“We had to sneak around to avoid drawing attention,” Twilight whispered back. “But our guts told us we’d find you here.”
Cheese Sandwich: "That...and of course, my Pinkie Pie's pinky senses were tingling..."
“Oh Johanna… we’re so sorry this happened to you,” Fluttershy sighed sadly.
“Beadle said I could leave if I agree to marry the Judge,” Johanna informed. “I’d rather die… if he should marry me, what shall I do? I’ll die of grief.”
“We have a plan,” Anthony assured her.
“What can we do with time so brief?”
“We’ll fly you out of there, Johanna,” Rainbow Dash assured confidently. “Maybe not tonight, but we’ll set you free.”
Gilda: "What do you mean, not tonight? Just get it over with already!"
“How? They won’t let just anyone get through the gate.”
“Be not afraid, Johanna,” Anthony assured. “I’ll steal you away somehow; I love you.”
“Sir… I did love you even as I saw you,” Johanna reflected. “Even as it did not matter that I did not know your name…”
“It’s me you’ll marry, that’s what I’ll do,” Anthony declared. “When we get you out, we’ll marry at St. Dunstan’s. Hold a private ceremony, and we’ll leave London, go somewhere far away.”
On the moon
Gallus: (Quoting Robin Hood) "And for your honeymoon! London?"
Silverstream: (Giggles as she joins Gallus and roleplays Maid Marian) "Yes!"
Gallus: "Normandy?"
Silverstream: "Yes!"
Gallus: "Sunny Spain?"
Silverstream: "Why not?" (Takes Gallus by the claw)
“And we’ll be there to make sure no one tries to ruin this special moment,” Twilight Sparkle promised.
“Twilight… I knew somehow that you’d be there for me one day,” Johanna smiled sadly. “Even not knowing who you were or any of your friends. I feared you’d never come, that you’d been called away by the police. That you’d be killed, had the plague, in a debtor’s jail, trampled by a horse, gone to sea again, arrested by the—”
Vaggie: "Okay! Okay. We get it the details. No need to get anymore graphic..."
“Calm down, sugar cube,” Applejack gestured, looking around. “We ain’t gonna be able to git you out now. We have to lie low a while till the police dies down. Once we’re in the clear, we’re getting’ ya out of there in a jiff.”
Angel Dust: "And how long will that be?"
Suddenly, the girl looked back as she could hear a door opening. Realizing what was coming, she turned back.
“You have to go… now!” Johanna urged. “Hurry! Before they find you!”
Johanna reeled back from the bars, leaving the group only a brief moment to see her. Now they knew where Johanna was, and also aware the place must be heavily guarded, they could only hope that they could put whatever plan they had into motion before something awful happens to their friend. For now… they left the asylum before someone caught on to them. If this plan was going to work, they had to rely on something to keep the public occupied…
Angel Dust: "Here's an idea! Just nuke the whole asylum with your magic! End of story!"
Charlie Morningstar: (To Angel Dust) "With Johanna still inside? Absolutely not."
Back in Fleet Steet, amidst the chaos ensuing to rescue Johanna, the Beggar Woman sat crouched on her haunches, peering up from under her few greasy locks of hair. She watched something intently. A few pedestrians moved quickly down the sidewalk past her, excited. They chattered back and forth eagerly, the Beggar Woman uncoiled and followed toward what she’d been watching…
Mrs. Lovett’s wretched establishment had been transformed and things were going better than ever. She had created a modest outdoor eating garden with tables, surrounded by glowing Chinese lanterns. A fresh coat of paint, a few bushes in pots and birds in cages add to the feeling of upward mobility. The entire place had been restored to its former glory as if the shop looked just like ‘new’ again.
Even a new sign hung proudly over the entrance to the pie shop: “MRS. LOVETT’S WORLD-FAMOUS MEAT PIES!”. And then in smaller letters: “LIKE MOTHER USED TO MAKE.”.
Alastor: "Hmmmm. My mother's cookings were just as good! Perhaps we could trade secrets about our mothers' cookings some times, Mrs. Lovett."
Not only that, but the eating garden was also already crowded, the benches at the tables are filled with a whole new assortment of customers eager to try her new meat pies. All the other customers yet to seated stood and milled about. Everyone else was eating, eating, eating…
… The most delicious looking meat pies one could ever imagine. Crispy crust. Thick, luxurious gravy. Tart and tangy meat. The customers take great, hungry mouthfuls; the steaming gravy oozing down greedy faces. Chomp. Chomp. Chomp. But they had no idea of the ‘true’ ingredients amidst all these new pies.
Everyone in the audience were all just as disgusted, whilst Alastor licks his chomps, eager for a sliver of the meat pies, new and improved.
The Beggar Woman stood across the street, just outside the shop, ravenously hungry. She finally got the nerve to approach when Toby, wearing a spiffy new outfit with apron, burst from the shop, and circulated through the customers to stir up more business the only way he knew how… singing.
Toby (Sings): Ladies and gentlemen, May I have your attention, perlease? Are your nostrils aquiver and tingling as well At that delicate, luscious ambrosial smell? Yes, they are, I can tell…
Charlie Morningstar: "Wow. He's certainly a talented kid with the voice of a thousand angels!"
Angel Dust: (To Charlie) "Aw, you're too kind, princess."
He moved through the greedily eating customers in the outdoor garden and toward the street…
Toby (Sings): Well, ladies and gentlemen, That aroma enriching the breeze Is like nothing compared to its succulent source, As the gourmets among you will tell you, of course.
Soon the boy arrived at the street and drummed up more business:
Toby (Sings): Ladies and gentlemen, You can’t imagine the rapture in store— (Indicates the pie shop) Just inside of this door!
Toby proceeded to lead more customers into the shop and seat them at their own tables. Making his way out the back door to the shop, he returned to the outdoor dining garden. More hungry patrons ravenously ate the meat pies like they were going out of stock.
Grand Pear: "That's because they have no idea what they're eating!"
Mrs. Lovett helped to serve the many customers in between, pouring them ale or serving them more pies ‘fresh’ from the oven.
Toby (Sings): There you’ll sample Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies, Savory and sweet pies, As you’ll see. You who eat pies, Mrs. Lovett’s meat pies Conjure up the treat pies Used to be!
As Mrs. Lovett swept from the pie shop with a tray of hot, steaming pies, like her shop, she too had been transformed as well. She wore her somewhat gauche notion of ‘fancy dress’. Buckets of decolletage and her hair had been dyed a rather unique aubergine color.
Random Dude: "Wow! Who are you and what have you done to Bellatrix Lestrange?"
“Toby!” Mrs. Lovett called out.
“Coming!” Toby replied, pushing past a customer. “’Scuse me…”
“Ale there!” Lovett indicated a beckoning customer.
“Right, mum!”
“Quick, now!”
The customers suddenly exclaimed their joy through awkward mouthfuls of pie:
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
On the moon
Loona: [Texts on her phone]: "Christs on a stick. There is a god."
Toby scurried inside to fetch a jug of ale, whisking back out and started filling tankards as Mrs. Lovett circulated grandly. She was a bundle of activity – serving pies, collecting money, giving orders, addressing the patrons individually and with equal buoyant insincerity:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Nice to see you, dearie… How have you been keeping?... Cor, me bones is weary! Toby--! (Indicates a customer) One for the gentleman… Hear the birdies cheeping— Helps to keep it cheery…
Suddenly, Mrs. Lovett spotted the Beggar Woman approaching, a grimace came upon her face, and she responded with unusual ferocity:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Toby! Throw the old woman out!
Discord: "YEAH! Throw the old woman out!" (Looks at Granny Smith)
Granny Smith: "WHAAAA!" (Tossed onto the moon)
Granny Smith was NOT an imposter.
Storm Shield: (To Discord) "You're seriously abusing your power to toss everyone onto the moon, y'know that?"
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Nodding in response, Toby grabbed a dish towel and walked toward the old beggar. He shooed the Beggar Woman away, swatting the towel at her, and the homeless woman quickly scampered away from the shop… but soon came skulking back.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): What’s your pleasure, dearie?... No, we don’t cut slices… Cor, me eyes are bleary!... (Toby is about to pour for a drunken customer) Toby! None for the gentleman!... I could up me prices— I’m a little leery… Business Couldn’t be better, though—
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Knock on wood. (And she does) What’s your pleasure, dearie? (Spilling ale) Oops! I beg your pardon! Just me hands is smeary— (Spotting a freeloader trying to sneak out without paying) Toby! Run for the gentleman!
Toby caught him, collecting the money, as Mrs. Lovett turned to another customer:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Don’t you love a garden? Always makes me teary… (Looking back at the freeloader) Must be one of them foreigners—
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good that is delicious!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): What’s my secret? (To a woman) Frankly, dear – forgive my candor— Family secret, All to do with herbs. Thinks like being Careful with your coriander, That’s what makes the gravy grander--!
The customers are getting more rabid now – stuffing in the gorgeous meat pies in great fistfuls—
Vaggie: "Ew! And I thought Alastor has bad table manners..."
Alastor: "I heard that!"
Customers (Sings): More hot pies! More hot! More pies!
The bell above the barber shop rang loudly as the door opened and Mr. Todd stepped out to the top of the stairs to observe the atmosphere below. Chrysalis stepped out behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder as they stood watching the street hungrily. Sweeney looked at her hand on his shoulder for a moment before placing his own hand atop hers. Just then, he noticed his next customer talking with a smiling Mrs. Lovett, to which Chrysalis noticed too.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Incidentally, dearie, You know Mrs. Mooney. Sales’ve been so dreary— (Spotted the Beggar Woman again) Toby! (Continues with the customer, about Mrs. Mooney) --Poor thing is penniless. (Indicates Beggar Woman to Toby) What about that loony? (To the customer as Toby shoos the Beggar Woman away again) Lookin’ sort of beery— Oh, well, got her comeuppance— (Hawklike, to a rising customer) And that’ll be thruppence – and
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good that is de have you.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): So, she should.
Customers (Sings): Licious ever tasted smell such Oh my God, what more, that’s pies good!
“Well, time to work my own magic,” She grinned wickedly.
Chrysalis soon sauntered seductively down the steps just as the man made it to the bottom of the staircase.
Atlanta: (Covers her eyes) "I'm so ashamed."
Random sinner: "Work that money maker, bug queen!"
He looked up and saw a beautiful blonde lady coming down the staircase, her sleeve tucked slightly to expose a bare shoulder. The poor man was instantly entranced, unaware that his fate was sealed.
Mrs. Lovett & Toby (Sings): Eat them slow and Feel the crust, how thin I/she rolled it! Eat them slow, ‘cos Every one’s a prize! Eat them slow, ‘cos That’s the lot and now we’ve sold it!
Mrs. Lovett hung up a ‘Sold Out’ sign.
Mrs. Lovett & Toby (Sings): Come again tomorrow--!
She soon spotted the man climbing up the stairs, in need of a shave, beckoned by her blonde associate.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Hold it—
Customers (Sings): More hot pies!
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Bless my eyes--!
Lovett saw Chrysalis luring the man up to the barber shop. Todd still stood at the top of the stairs. They smiled secretly to Mrs. Lovett as they ushered the man inside. Seeing this brough a smile to Mrs. Lovett’s face, as she realized they weren’t sold out of pies… just yet.
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Fresh supplies!
The man soon entered the barber shop as she happily took down the ‘Sold Out’ sign and turned again to the customers:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): How about it, dearie? (Expecting more pies) Be here in a twinkling! Just confirms me theory— Toby--! God watches over us. Didn’t have an inling… Positively eerie…
Toby (Sings, simulatenous with above): Is that a pie Fit for a king, A wondrous sweet And most delectable Thing? You see, ma’am, why There is no meat pie—
Once again, the Beggar Woman snuck in trying to prove that her crazy theory was true and that there was something off about all this. Mrs. Lovett again spotted the Beggar Woman, and she spun to Toby with truly shocking viciousness:
Mrs. Lovett (Sings): Toby! THROW THE OLD WOMAN OUT!
Random sinner: "HOW MANY TIMES DO YOU HAVE TO LEARN YOUR LESSON YA OLD HAG?!"
Mrs. Lovett watched intently as Toby quickly approached the Beggar Woman and led her away to the front door of the building, closing the door behind her as it locked. The customers, meanwhile, are building to a pure frenzy of mastication – chewing and gulping and snapping at the heavenly pies…
Customers (Sings): God, that’s good that is de have yo Licious ever tasted smell such Oh my God, what perfect more that’s Pies such flavor God, that’s good!!
As the music reached a rousing conclusion, Mrs. Lovett stood at the door to her shop… triumphant. For the first time in her life, her business was a rousing success, everyone was buying her products… and nothing was going to take that from her. Just then, she noticed a customer approaching the counter. Carrying a basket with gloved hands, it seemed to be a woman who's entire framed was covered by faded pinkish dress covering her neck to the tip of her toes. A wide brimmed hat covered her head; her face shrouded in a thick veil.
“Pardon me, ‘dearie,” The woman greeted, raspy like. “Do you perchance have any more of those ‘delicious’ pies? I’d like to buy some to go?”
“Ooh… sorry dearie, we just about sold out today,” Mrs. Lovett spoke regretfully.
Undeterred, the lady reached into the basket and dropped in a pile of coins along the counter. Not wanting to disappoint a paying customer, Lovett turned side to side, leaned down below the cabinet and pulled out a secret pie hidden from prying view. She took a gentle blow on the pie and placed it before the woman.
“Here… have a special one, on me,” Mrs. Lovett insisted.
“Bless yer kind heart, Mrs. Pie lady…”
The lady casually placed the pie into the basket and proceeded to walk away toward the door. Toby unlocked the door allowing the patron to leave, passing the beggar woman who stood out in the dead of the night. The mysterious lady casually placed some coins into the woman’s reaching hands, and the Beggar Woman seemed fixated on the ‘alms’ in her palms. Once far away from the shop, the woman lifted her veil slightly…
Revealing herself to be the humanized Pinkie Pie, briefly looking back toward the shop… suspicion in her eyes as she dropped the veil and passed through the town in secret back to her friends.
Discord: "YEAH! Throw the old woman out!" (Looks at Granny Smith)
Granny Smith: "WHAAAA!" (Tossed onto the moon)
Granny Smith was NOT an imposter.
Storm Shield: (To Discord) "You're seriously abusing your power to toss everyone onto the moon, y'know that?"
Dramamaster: Okay, that's it! It is DEFINITELY Discord! He's got to be the imposter!
Random Guy: But he was with us in the theater when all the Changelings and that Cherry Pie lady got knocked out.
Dramamaster: I'm not talking about the imposter outside the theater. Bear with me... there are 'two' imposters, but they couldn't have been out knocking out our friends all at once. One of them would be waiting with us in plain sight while the other would be out doing the work. Meanwhile, Discord would have 'any' and 'all' reasons to want to suddenly throw out a bunch of random guests to the moon. He was willing to throw out Princess Celestia when she was literally trying to explain her side of the story, he wanted to throw out the Student Six just because they'd likely be the most suspicious, he threw out all the others... well, mostly out of enjoyment... AND... LOOK AT HIM!
*Emphasizes Discord*
Dramamaster: He's 'literally' a former bad guy! He's got an imposter-looking face!
Random Guy: *Raises hand* But what would an imposter look like?
Dramamaster: *Pause for five seconds* I don't know. But whatever it is... he's got it!
<>
*From the moon*
Loona: *Studies Discords face on her cellphone, texts on her phone*: "No, no, I see it."
I love your writing and this series of books so much! And I have an idea of the mane 6 and spike going to the world of Miraculous Ladybug, either as ponies or humans, and I wanted to know if you would want to do that for a sequel book after this one, not right after this one just if you decide to do it in the future lol.
Oh he DEFINITELY had it coming to him for a long while now
I wonder if Pinkie is gonna find out about what’s in the pies
Twilight did good. However, I'm afraid that it isn't over until Todd get what he wants, Turpin dead by his blade.
After seeing Across the Spider-Verse, I've been getting mad Deja vu moments in this chapter because this all seems oddly familiar....
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Twilight went full Miles vs Miguel in that moment and it was awesome!
Well that rescue didn't go so well. But at least Twilight gave the judge what he deserved. Now they got another chance to rescue Johanna. They better make it count this time.
Mr. E, you madman! You worked it in!
Edit: And Kiss Me as well! (And now I'm wondering if you'll be adding the short song where Todd is teaching Anthony about the different shades of hair)
I think that after this one is finished, you should do Transformers: Rise of the Beasts next, I could imagine the dialogue between The Mane Six, Autobots, and Maximals being absolutely hilarious.
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It has already been indicated that Mr. E would do "Ice Age 1"
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Okay, I didn't see that that part.
Interesting
I've finished watching the film. I got to say, the girls and Spike are lucky not to be thrown in the nut house like Johanna was.
I await the commentaries for this.
Extra Cuts
Me: *stands beside Twilight* And if that's not enough, I'll add to it! *show my hand which glows with a holy light which in turn horrifies Turpin*
Me: Yeah, don't rub it in.
*As we raced after the cab, two figures with glowing eyes watched from the shadows*
*I keep an eye out for the police as well, knowing they'd never stand a chance against my magic or skills as Nightwing. The figures still watch in the shadows*
Anthony And I (Sings):
Johanna…
The Mane Six, Spike & I (Sings):
Johanna…
Anthony, Equestrians & I (Sings):
Johanna…
Anthony & I (Sings):
Johanna…
Me: Of course...
*Having found the place, we now had to make a plan*
Me: I'll even help out for extra measure.
*As we walk back to figure out a plan, I feel a familiar presence. I light my horn and see a man in victorian attire drinking a bottle of wine*
static.zerochan.net/Blitzo.full.3213284.jpg
Blitz: *notices me* Oh, hey Cinema.
Me: Blitz?! What are you doing here? Don't you have a business run back in Hell?
Blitz: Yeah, business has been rather slow lately and Mox and Milly have a special thing goin on. So I thought I'd visit a time period where there was plenty of misery to enjoy.
Me: Uh huh... Well, the Girls, Spike and I are in the middle of trying to help an innocent girl out of an asylum and we can't have the police catching us.
Twilight: *coming over* Cinema, what's wrong? *sees Blitz* Wait... is that...?
Blitz: Hey Princess.
*The others and Anthony come over and the girls and Spike recognize him even when disguised*
Spike: Is that Blitzo?
Blitz: THE O IS SILENT ASSHOLE!
Rainbow Dash: What is he doing here?!
Anthony: You all know this man?
Applejack: He ain't no man Anthony, he's an imp from Hell.
Anthony: *stunned* What...?
Rarity That ruffian tried to kill a friend of ours saying his clients payed him.
Blitz: Easy now lady, that's in the past now. Besides, Margaret and Chris are now at Princess Charlie's hotel. Plus, I just love to be around my favorite girls and dragon. *squeezes Twilight's cheeks*
Twilight: Uh huh...
Blitz: So CL here says you're trying to save a girl?
Twilight: Yes, you see...
*One Explanation Later...*
Blitz: THE F***?! A judge wants to marry this girl who he raised as a daughter?! That's the most f***ed up thing I've ever heard!
Spike: Boy do we know it...
Blitz: You know what, that girl needs to get out of there. So I'm gonna help you out whether you like it or not!
Sonata Dusk: You know guys, maybe he could be of help to us. I mean sure, he tried to axe off Carrie and Darek, but I think now he could be a nice allie.
*Twilight and I ponder and Twilight reluctantly nods*
Twilight: Alright Blitz, you can help us.
Blitz: Great~!
Twilight: On two conditions! You keep your disguise on unless necessary, and try not to kill anyone, we don't want to police to immediately come after us.
Blitz: No problem. I know how to keep things going for friends.
Twilight: Right.
*We head off to come up with a plan*
Me: By the way Blitz, how'd you manage the human look?
Blitz: Oh I had a bit of help from Stolis and his book.
Good for you, Twilight!
Welcome back, Lord Enigma!
It just gets bad to worse for our heroes. Soon as a certain someone lets it slip they plan to get Johanna out the house, the Judge is determined to lock her in a place where she can never leave. Our heroes were just lucky they weren’t arrested but after this fiasco they’ll be watching their backs anywhere they go.
Business is definitely picking up at Lovett’s. And it’s all thanks to a key ingredient courtesy of Sweeney Todd and Chrysalis.
My commentary's gonna be awhile; I'm busy all weekend with my County's Fair.
Things are definitely heating up, (hehe... made a pun) the ending is getting me anxious and excited, nice undercover skills Pinkie XD, welcome back Lord E
Hm~ What does Pinkie got in mind?
I'm getting better at synching music up with readthroughs lately. Also, I like those moments where Twilight shows she's not a pushover, while still not breaking the plot.
(First of all, Welcome Back Mr. E, I hope you recovered well after your incident, and hope you continue to remain safe from harm)
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Discord's Theatre, Galaxy Branch
Ben Solo: She seems really nervous.
Leia Organa: Remember, it's her first time going outside, to escape from one who has kept her as somewhat of a prisoner.
Postwar: Kind of like Rapunzel did. *Everyone looks at him confused* Long story.
Mando: It's her first experience doing something unknown. I remember how scared I was when I took Grogu in. *Grogu babbled a bit whilst waving his little arms*
Galen Marek: Or sooner, no thanks to Anthony.
Sunset Shimmer: Oh come on, don't blame him, he didn't know the Judge was going to be in there.
Ahsoka Tano: If there's one thing I've learned during my time with the Jedi Order, is that the unexpected can always happen around the corner.
Postwar: Agreed, fate has a way of hitting you in the face without warning.
Postwar: Actually she does, more than you can imagine.
Ben Solo: She does?
Leia Organa: How do you know?
Postwar: Just wait and see.
Ahsoka Tano: Whoa, is she serious?
Postwar: She is. She and Sunset have in common, both of them were Princess Celestia's students and both of them excelled in their magic and didn't want to make friends. Only difference is, Sunset became arrogant in her abilities, thinking that she was better than anyone else, and let her Temper and Impatience constantly get in the way as it led down to some disasters, whilst Twilight constantly tried to please her teacher by constantly kissing up to her, has a habit of overthinking things and is somewhat mentally unstable and a massive case of OCD, even if she did change over the years.
Galen Marek: OC what?
Sunset Shimmer: OCD or known as obsessive compulsive disorder. And he does have a point of her not thinking things through. When I asked her what would happen if she brought an Equestrian artifact to my old school, she didn't have an answer and I insulted her over it.
Postwar: Pff, like you knew the answer to that, until you learned the hard way when the magic turned you into a monster when it sensed the wickedness in your heart?
Sunset Shimmer: *Looked offended and wanted to say something, but then realized he was right, causing her to sigh in defeat* Point made.
Ahsoka Tano: *smiles* Wise words Twilight. Wise words indeed.
Sunset Shimmer: Agreed. Wish I had learned that long ago.
Postwar: As I mentioned once before...Fate has a funny way of changing your path.
Postwar: Don't jinx it, Twilight.
Ben Solo: What does Jinx mean?
Postwar: It's sort of like a bad omen. Like when you say "At least it can't get any worse", then something bad will automatically happen.
Ben Solo: It does?
Mando: He's not wrong, especially when someone kept on saying "I've got a bad feeling about this"
Ahsoka Tano: Mando's right. You wouldn't believe how many times that happens to us on a daily basis.
Postwar: And she jinxed it.
Ben Solo: Oooh, now I see what you mean. I'll try to be mindful of that in the future.
Galen Marek: After seeing that...same here.
Postwar: Typical Judges, thinking that titles gives you power when it just makes him a bigger fool.
Sunset Shimmer: And I thought Chancellor Neighsay was bad back in the day.
Leia Organa: Same goes with the so-called Regional Governors when he dissolved the Imperial Senate.
Mando: That's nothing, you should've seen the Bounty Hunter guild when the Empire took over.
Sunset Shimmer: Typical. Not having the stomach to face him.
Galen Marek: Judges tend to do that whenever they face a threat.
Mando: Those with deeper pockets tend to do whatever it takes to get what they wanted.
Ahsoka Tano: Or who would do anything to please the Emperor.
Galen Marek: Oh, come on, how is it they kept getting overpowered so easily?
Postwar: That's nothing. Rainbow tends to talk a big game, but it always blows up in her face. Hence why miss "Fastest Pegasus Alive" got easily overpowered by a bunch of Caballeron's thugs.
Sunset Shimmer: *Giggles* I remember that. Twilight and the others never let her live that down and Rainbow's been embarrassed about that for years.
Galen Marek: Oh sure, now they do something.
Postwar: It's called staying undercover, doofus, or did you not know the meaning of the word? Kind of like the second rule of the Assassin Brotherhood, "Hide in plain sight."
Sunset Shimmer: Hey, I remember that.
Postwar: Seriously, that girl never think things through. And some of the folks I worked with once thought of her differently.
Sunset Shimmer: Really? What did they say?
Postwar: Uh, let's just say it was a...very heavy insult. *Sunset flexed her eyebrow on that, with Postwar sighing and revealing* That they said that she's a country hicked bumpkin who's not too bright when it comes to fixing problems.
Sunset Shimmer: *Outraged* WHAT?!!
Postwar: Believe me, I was unhappy about it too.
Mando: I know that look, it's a look on a man who is dead set to kill those who stands in his way.
Leia Organa: He won't give up, will he?
Postwar: Those whose hearts are as black as souls, are doomed to their own downfall.
Ahsoka Tano: Agreed. People like him won't rest until they get what they want.
Sunset Shimmer: *Worried look and muttered* Be safe, Twilight.
Postwar: And so their killings have begun. *Looks at Leia* You'd better shield Ben's eyes from this.
Leia nodded in agreement and did just that.
Some were now getting tensed and worried at the same time, but Postwar kept his heart hardened for just in case, with Galen doing the same and holding Sunset's hand.
Everyone, minus a few, watched in shock and horror as the deeds were slowly being carried out.
Mando: He's beginning to piece things together.
Postwar: He's a smart boy, but I fear for his safety.
Leia Organa: Same for us. *Continues to shield Ben from the horror happening in front of him*
Sunset Shimmer: Looks like they've found Johanna.
Ahsoka Tano: But the question is, how do they free her?
Postwar: Good question. Though I think we'll know soon enough.
Mando: If it were up to me, I'd create a distraction long enough for folks to be drawn away from this.
Sunset Shimmer: But how, they don't know anyone else there that could help.
Postwar: Remember, they're in London, it's riddled with tons of gangs. I'm sure that they would find some help there.
Some began to feel sickened as they realized what she was doing, even Sunset could barely keep her lunch in, for she is a former pony after all.
Postwar smirks as he knows who that is.
Sunset Shimmer: Who could that be?
Galen Marek: Something tells me we'll find out soon enough.
Sunset Shimmer: Pinkie?!
Postwar: Heh, knew it. Her senses never fail her. For she had a feeling something felt off about this place.
Leia Organa: You think she'll tell the others about this?
Mando: She will. Her friends need to know what's going on.
Welcome back, Mr. E! Hope you are well.
Also…
Inner Me: (To me in real-life) “WAKE UP!!! Okay, man. Pity party is over! You’ve got work to do! Lots and lots of it! Now get that brain of yours in working order now! Everybody’s waiting for you!”
<<Previous
Canterlot Mall Theater, Discord's Branch
Arctic was on his way back to the theater room with Fluttershy by his side as he looked over to the shy girl
Arctic: Hey, you feeling alright now? (He asked the shy girl
Fluttershy: (would nod her head slightly) I-I think so. T-thank you. (She said as she held onto his arm a bit)
Arctic: No problem, Fluttershy.
The two of them entered back into the movie theater and sees the of Fluttershy friends in their seats drinking some bottled water
Arctic: Hey, Girls. You all feeling better now? (He asked a bit worried)
Sci-Twi: W-Will be ok, I think..
Juniper: Let’s.. just try and finish the rest of this.
Arctic would nod his head and gets back in his own as Fluttershy sits in her’s as they continue to watch the movie again.
Rarity: Poor Johanna, she seems nervous about all of this.
Juniper: After everything she’s been through, i wouldn’t blame her for getting worried
Sci-Twi: I wouldn’t say that, me and even the princess could relate to her, being in our own world and not opening up to others.
Arctic: But, since then you both grown and met wonderful people who’re your friends (he said with a small smile)
Pinkie Pie: And we’re happy to have you as part of our group! (She said with a big grin)
Arctic and The Equestrian Girls smile softly hearing the words from the Princess
Rainbow Dash:…. She jinxed it didn’t she?
Arctic and Applejack: Eeeyup…
Fluttershy: O-Oh no…
Juniper: She’s right, so you have no right to talk. (She said with a glare)
Sci-Twi: That coward! (She said in anger)
Applejack: Doesn’t have the courage to face them, and got the police to do it. (She said with a glare of her own)
Arctic: This is why I hate corrupted power hungry people like him. Abusing his status like this.
Rainbow Dash: The heck?! They shouldn’t be getting overpowered like that!
Fluttershy: M-Maybe they’re trying to blow their cover to him?
Rainbow Dash: At this point, Fluttershy. That judge needs deserves a blast of magic in the face.
Rainbow Dash: Now that’s more like it!
Juniper: Bet his not so high and mighty now. (She said with a smirk)
Rainbow Dash: Yeah! You better run!
Arctic: Oh definitely, he had all of that coming.
Sci-Twi: Agreed.
Rainbow Dash: You know it.
Rarity: Someone needed to teach that brute a lesson.
Pinkie Pie: Yikes, talk about brutal honesty
Applejack: (would cover her face with her hat a bit)
Fluttershy: I-I hope they’ll be able to find her..
Arctic: I hope so too, Fluttershy. (He said towards the shy girl)
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Pinkie Pie: I’m getting a really REALLY worried.. (she said nervously)
Fluttershy: (would hold onto Arctic arm and hides her face in his shoulder)
Arctic: (comforts the shy girl a little bit and looks over) you girls gonna be alright? (He asked)
Rarity: Y-Yes, will be alright.. probably. (She said getting a bit of dread in her stomach)
Everyone couldn’t help but feel a bit of dread and are horrified with what was happening
Pinkie Pie: C-Can we go back to the fun adventure now. (She said feeling a bit scared)
Fluttershy: P-Please, let it end soon. (She said with a muffled voice in Arctic shoulder)
Applejack: Smart boy, his starting to get suspicious about all of this
Juniper:…I hope he doesn’t get caught, because if he finds out then he’ll be a pie. (She said with worry)
Juniper: They found her!
Pinkie Pie: That’s good, but how’ll they get her out?
Sci-Twi: They can’t be reckless. They’ll need a way for them to get in and out easily without causing to much attention
Arctic: Hopefully this goes well.. Johanna and Anothoy deserve happiness
Applejack: She’s getting more suspicious.. that ain’t a good sign. (She mentioned)
Fluttershy:(would look up a little bit) I-I’m worried what’s gonna happen to her…
The Equestrian girls felt sick to their stomach from this as they tried to keep their stomach settled
Pinkie Pie: I-I don’t think I can eat pies for awhile after this…
Sci-Twi: I don’t know who I should feel bad for more… the customers or the women
Juniper: I say both… because, they don’t know what’s in them pies. As for the women, she starting to get more and more suspicious that could… be her last mistake she made
Rainbow Dash: (gets a bit green) Man, even just hearing them say it’s good is disgusting
Rarity: I’m gonna need a long rested break after this..(she said feeling a bit green)
Applejack: E-Eeyup. (The cowgirl said also turning green)
Everyone started to feel a little sick now from this as they held their stomachs a bit
Pinkie Pie: Yeah… definitely no pies for a long while
Arctic: Yeah, probably a good call (he mentioned feeling a bit nauseous)
Juniper: Pinkie Pie? what was she doing there?
Arctic: She probably also notice something is going on, with how popular the pies are with that “special” ingredient… I just hope they found out before they taste it.
The Equestrians Girls and Juniper their heads as they all started to get up and to get some fresh air and more water with Arctic following close behind, before they continue the final moments of the movie
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Future G5
Discord Memorial Cinema
In a short span of a few minutes, Sunny hyperventilated and passed out. I dashed off and grabbed some ice packs and placed them on her head while Zipp and Pipp fanned with their wings.
Hitch checked her pulse and chest for any movements. He sighed when he felt breathing.
Hitch: She’s alive.
Izzy: YES!!!
Pipp: Oh, thank hoofness! (stops fanning, wipes brow) I don’t know how long I can keep this up.
Zipp: I could do this for hours.
Pipp: Of course, you would.
Soon enough, Sunny slowly opened her eyes.
Me: (relieved) Oh, thank God. Sunny, are you okay?
I helped her into an upright position.
Sunny: Y-yeah…maybe…I-I don’t know. (moves into fetal position) I just…I can’t believe that—that Todd and Chrysalis would…it’s not fair what happened to them.
I sighed, hanging my head low. This was going to be a difficult conversation, and I really wished there was a much better time for it—it had to happen sometime—but Sweeney Todd rushed it exponentially.
Me: Sunny, there is something I need to tell you, and it is not pleasant.
I sat down in front of her.
Me: There are some people out there in the world that do and have done some disgusting, despicable acts of evil. Things that you can’t even imagine, me too.
Sunny: Wh-what do you mean?
Me: As you know, Todd, Chrysalis and Lovett are about to go on a murder spree with cannibalized meat pies. But there have been people, real people throughout actual history, who have also done evil acts like them, and some were even worse.
Sunny: (confused and scared) But…but Todd’s just a barber. And his family was taken from him! And his wife was—!
Me: And that’s the thing, Sunny. (sighs) I understand why you’re uncomfortable, anyone would be. Sweeney Todd was sent away and had his family ripped away from him, and yet he comes back and decides to enact his revenge by going on a murder spree. Chrysalis had her love ripped away from her and she decided to enact her revenge by trying to take Shining Armor from Cadance on their wedding day and thereby Canterlot and all of Equestria. Their motivations and backstories are tragic and unjust, I will not deny that, but actions speak louder than words or memories. They chose to use their anger and hatred to hurt and kill innocent people.
Poor Sunny started sobbing, and I couldn’t blame her. Izzy and Pipp offered comforting hugs, Hitch gave a supporting backrub. Zipp however was processing the whole thing.
Zipp: Wait, you said “even worse.” What do you mean by that?
I clenched my fists like I was bracing for impact.
Me: It’s what I have heard called the Banality of Evil: that even the most normal person or creature alive can do the most evil things. And human history speaks for itself. Decades ago, there was a man named Ted Bundy.
I cringed as I mentioned his name, as if so much repressed pain was suddenly resurfaced.
Me: He was handsome and charismatic, with a very convoluted and unfortunate birth and childhood, and intelligent. He was able to charm his way into and out of any situation. (darkens) He was also one of the most infamous serial killers in history.
The entire mood changed.
Hitch: He was a serial killer?
Me: You wouldn’t think that if you looked at the guy, but the evidence and his actions speak for themselves. He would lure women and young girls, kidnap them, torture, rape, and sexually abuse them until he murdered them. No one knows how many he killed, at least thirty last I checked.
Zipp: 30?! At least 30?!
Sunny: Why?! Why did he do it?!
Me: I don’t know! I…I don’t know. Maybe it’s because he loved having control and inflicting fear and pain on others.
Hitch: (sick) This is a lot to take in. Did they ever catch him?
Me: Last I heard, he was caught and sent to prison; I don’t know if he was executed or not.
Sunny: But…but what if…what if…
Me: Just because Ted Bundy was a nice guy to have a conversation with, or because Hitler was a family man and loved his family, or if Jim Jones had a wonderful speaking voice, it does not excuse the horrible atrocities they committed. Neither man showed remorse for their actions, and the world’s better off without them.
The silence was uncomfortable. It was hard for these ponies, who knew sunlight and rainbows, even if they had all been in the grips of systematic paranoia and bigotry for years. Humans by comparison had it much worse, because evil was a fundamental level.
In the silence that followed, we all returned to our seats.
Me: Sunny, I see you’re very uncomfortable so maybe it’s best that you—
Sunny: NO!! (calms down) No…I-I leave without knowing Princess Twilight and her friends will be okay.
Me: (reluctant) All…alright, then. Let’s continue the film.
Maybe Equestria had finally evolved to the point where their technology can scan and identify the exact functions of the brain. I wasn’t holding out any hope, really.
Zipp: Oh, geez. Turpin’s on his way and they have no idea.
Pipp: Dramatic irony at its finest.
Sunny: (scared) Y-Yeah, eheh…because he never got his shave so he’s coming home early.
Izzy: (gasps) Was that a jinx?
Me: (cringes) I dunno.
Sunny: Why is she so sad?
Me: (cringes) Yeesh…she’s had it bad.
Hitch: Oh, boy.
Sunny: The world’s not all evil. When you have a friend it can be much better.
Izzy: (hugs Sunny) That’s my bestie!
Me: (aside) I mostly kept to myself when I was young. I wasn’t the kind of kid who would go to giant and rowdy parties or hang around giant crowds.
Sunny: I don’t understand.
Sunny: …wow. I…never knew that.
Me: I can relate on a personal level. It was nice to be around people I knew and shared common interests with, but most of the time I was on my own.
Zipp: I was like that too.
Izzy: Mmhmm, me too! That was until I met all my best friends!
Me: Oh, shit.
Izzy: JINXIE!! JINXIE!!
Hitch: Not good! Get out of there!
Hitch: Dude, he’s a frickin’ child!
Izzy: (hiding under the table) Jinxie! Jinxie! Jinxie! That man is jinxie!
Zipp: You’re an old man and she’s underage! You’re deluding yourself!
Me: (cringes) Ugh~…I have just been reminded of Turpin’s solo song from the original stageplay and was purposely cut for the adaptation.
Pipp: Dare I ask…what it means?
Me: I don’t speak a word of Latin, so no. And I think I’m better off not knowing.
Sunny: New…new lodgings?
Zipp: I do not like the sound of that.
Posey: Keep that old creep away from me!
Sunny: (gasps) Does that mean they’re here for Turpin?
Hitch: Wait—oh, no…they’re here with Turpin.
Sunny: Huh?
Hitch: (sighs, glaring) He’s used his influence as a Judge to bribe and manipulate the police as his henchmen.
Me: I mean, there’s a reason why “incompetent police” is a trope of detective mystery fiction and old comic books.
Me: (cringes, seethes) I swear someone, from the holographic memories, is having PTSD right about now.
Zipp: I think Seed and his cult of a family would get along with this guy very much.
Sunny: No, no, no, no, no, no! They can’t go to jail! They did nothing wrong!
Hitch: Clearly, there’s no reasoning with Turpin. But they gotta do something. Didn’t they spend a year training with the League of Shadows? Surely they put those skills to good use right about now!
Pipp: Where’s Anthony?!
Zipp: Well, that’s just great! Now they gotta rescue her again!
Hitch: DO SOMETHING!!!
Izzy: DO SOMETHING!!!
Me: (picking up a fake phone) DO SOMETHING!!! (immediately throws it away)
Zipp: (laughs) Yes! I was waiting for that!
Hitch: Wow! Normally I don’t condone violence…but he had it coming.
Sprout: She’s got some strong hooves.
Sunny: …still surprises me every time she does this.
Me: Well, now. Turpin’s afraid.
Sunny: Uh…
Me: Psh! Nah, girl! That was fucking awesome what you just did there.
Me: Brutally honest.
Hitch: (sighs) I’ve been there before.
Me: Yeah, especially with—honestly—the most gruesome musical number of all time.
Zipp: Oh, boy.
Sunny: I know they will find Johanna, and rescue her. (mumbles) I hope…
Me: You know, here’s Chrysalis with Todd getting down on her hands and knees and getting herself covered in dirt and wood dust. Something about him is bringing out a different side to her…it’s so strange.
Pipp: I never took them for carpenters.
Me: I’ve done DIY projects before, but it still impresses me every time.
Sunny: It, uh…looks nice?
Izzy: Yeah, uh…a perfect fixup for…them…
Me: And so it begins. The most grisly number in the whole musical of a bloodbath and a citywide search.
Sunny: Oh, no…
Izzy: Uh…what minor adjustments is he talking about?
Me: Something else is happening simultaneously…
Sunny: What?
Zipp: (scared) It’s…Todd and Chrysalis, isn’t it?
Me:…eeyup.
Sunny: (cringes uncomfortably)
Izzy: That’s uh…c-clever unicycling! (meekly) I think…
Hitch: Yeah…evil, but clever…
Me: I must admit, that’s rather impressive engineering. (aside) But hey, Syndrome was also an intellectual and technological genius too, and look where he ended up…
Me: Yeah, I can understand why Ember would be put off by songs like this one. It’s just basically repeating her name over and over again.
Sunny: W-where is she?
Me: So…that’s it? You know that Turpin will never let her go so you just gave up on her? Dude, you are a shitty parent.
Zipp: Uh…yeah, I see your point.
Sunny: Why not…why isn’t he searching for his daughter?
Hitch: I’m not sure about his choice of words. I mean, I get what they’re trying to do, but still…
Pipp: Artistic license? Probably not…
Me: “You’re gone, you’re mine”. Christ, man, make up your mind!
Zipp: Uh…to be fair, does he even have a mind to make logical decisions with anyway?
Me: Yeah…fair point.
Me: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) Great, now I’m doing it. Curse my love for musical theater.
Pipp: That woman’s creeping me out, and not in a good horror flick kind of way…
Izzy: Do you think she can see the Sparkle of that place? Because I can…and it’s black and burning bright orange. (cringes) So much black and orange…
Pipp: Lots of blood too…
Izzy: (cries into her hooves)
Pipp: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) Yeah, it is a bit repetitive…
Zipp: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) Ah, dangit!
Me: Well, that guy’s dead now, and we’ll never know what Todd’s gonna justify his death with.
Sprout: (on the ground; fetal position) So much death…!
Me: (sings) Maria…~! (coughs, then speaks) Sorry, wrong Sondheim musical. God, these songs are so similar.
Me: This is beyond depressing.
Hitch: (shocked and confused) Just what is he thinking?
Zipp: (dismissive) His mind’s broken, so who knows?
Hitch: Taken out of context, he sounds like a creepy stalker.
Zipp: Yeah, I totally hear that.
Me: Lady, the London Fire was centuries ago!
Hitch: London was on fire?!
Me: Centuries ago, like I said. So was Chicago, too.
Zipp: He might be onto something.
Hitch: He’s a smart kid…hopefully it doesn’t get him killed.
Me: (aside) Or go insane while singing “Patty Cake”.
Me: He just keeps killing and killing and killing…and it’s to the point where he’s forgotten why he started killing in the first place, or what brought him back in the first place.
Hitch: (gulps) That is so terrifying.
Pipp: And thought provoking at the same time. (gets looks) What? I like horror movies.
Zipp: This…?! Yeah, it’s pretty horrifying.
Me: (sings) Johanna… (speaks) I swear, I’m getting West Side Story flashbacks.
Zipp: Seriously?
Sunny: Heh…h-hey, they spared them. They took pity on them. Maybe they aren’t so—
Me: I’m gonna stop you right there. Because you’re sounding like you’re justifying the many senseless murders of so many other men just because this one guy was spared.
Sunny: But he had a family! Just like…like Todd did.
Me: And Todd would have murdered him had that family not been there.
Sunny: What?
Hitch: Woah. This reminds me of Arkham.
Pipp: Except not so...gothic. And crazy looking.
Me: With how cunning these two are, why don’t they put that to use and go and rescue Todd’s own goddamn daughter?! But no, he’s decided to forget about her.
Sunny: (gasps) There she is! They’ve found her!
Izzy: YAY!
Zipp: Wait, where is she?
Me: Shit…that’s an insane asylum. Most likely it’s a segregated one specifically for women only. Yet another outdated social norm.
Me: It’s still so weird to see Chrysalis in a three-dimensional light instead of being yet another one note villainous personality. Honestly, I think she was like that before.
Sunny: I don’t understand.
Me: About why Todd spared that one guy?
Sunny: (meek) Yeah.
Me: It’s possible those other men they killed also had families, and that one man just so happened to bring them to the shop. As if the wind was blowing in the right direction, once in a blue moon. They killed many people with no rhyme or reason, and they just “happened” to be kind this one time.
The poor mare held her head over the table, as if she was going to be sick again.
Sunny: How can someone so normal be so…w-why?
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Sunny: (sadly) Poor Johanna. She doesn’t deserve this.
Zipp: (deadpan) Really?
Me: Was that meant to rhyme?
Me: I feel like that’s referencing a song that was not included in the adaptation…
Zipp: Is she serious?
Izzy: It’s adorable!
Pipp: (uneasy) Eh…?
Me: This is even stupider than the original Romeo and Juliet, and by extension every adaptation of West Side Story aside from Speilberg’s 2021 remake.
Zipp: Oh, come on! Even she’s in on it! Why?!
Hitch: This whole young love trope is more dangerous than anything.
Zipp: Yeah! You can’t just rush your feelings like this. It’s bound to get you in serious trouble!
Sunny: You can trust them, Johanna!
Pipp: How are they going to rescue her?
Izzy: (gasps) Maybe…they can glitter bomb the building and free all of the prisoners!
Me: One: the building’s made of brick and glitter are lighter than feathers. Two: maybe it’s not such a good idea for a mass breakout involving potentially dangerous people?
Izzy: Aw…
Sunny: But what if—?
Me: I said potentially. The truth is we don’t know anyone specifically—besides Johanna—who is in there.
Hitch: I see what you mean. And there could be pandemonium in the streets where many innocent bystanders could get hurt, or worse.
Pipp: (gulps) Dare I ask what Todd’s up to?
Me: There’s that whimsical Dies Irae just like with Pirelli.
Zipp: Don’t tell me: they’re using…what-his-name for the meat part.
Me: Advertisement in the 19th Century is such an ancient marvel.
Zipp: This is literally the most uncomfortable I have ever been when watching a movie.
Hitch: (gags) I’ll be fine…this time, maybe.
Pipp: It’s basically a reprise of his song about Pirelli. Honestly, it fits much better here…
Pipp: He hasn’t lost his way from working with Pirelli.
Izzy: Remember: he was using a fake name.
Pipp: I know that. It’s just I literally can’t remember his real name.
Me: That poor kid has no idea what he’s hawking.
Audience: WHAT?!!!
Zipp: Do they have any idea what they’re eating?!
Pipp: Apparently not.
Me: Hey! That lyric was from the original stageplay that was cut from the film version! It fits in seamlessly.
Me: Looks like Alastor’s making the audience sample the meat pies without their consent…as usual.
Sunny: They won’t…eat them, right?
Me: (shrugs) Can’t say. (rubs neck) Jesus, my throat’s been killing me all night. (drinks lemonade)
Me: Jesus, what a bunch of gluttons.
Zipp: Did you guys see that?
Pipp: Oh, yeah. In full focus.
Izzy: What does it mean?
Me: I have my suspicions, but I can’t say for sure yet…
Me: Oh, boy. There she goes again. I’ll bet Shining Armor’s having PTSD flashbacks right about now.
Sunny: Why—oh, it’s about the wedding, right?
Me: Yeah. (aside) And when he and his family, the princess and Twilight’s friends, were held captive in the Changeling Hive.
Me: That poor sucker.
Me: Wow. Just…wow. Listening to this film version with the original stage chorus lyrics…I have finally now understood why Sondheim is recognized as the God of Musical Theater.
Hitch: It would be if the subject matter didn’t scar me for life! (gags)
Izzy: I’ll never eat another pie again!
Me: (holds a pie) Blueberry?
Izzy: YES!! (proceeds to gobble it like a bear) THANK YOU, SO MUCH!!!
Me: You’re welcome.
Sunny: Wait…she looks familiar…
Zipp: Yeah, and I swear I’ve heard her voice before…
Me: I’ve had the same sensation with recognizing actors across different movies and TV shows.
Hitch: Please…don’t eat it!
Me: (surprised) Oh…did not expect that.
Zipp: Yes! I knew it!
Izzy: (gasps) It must be her Pinkie Sense that brought her here!
Hitch: I…don’t know how I should feel about that.
Sunny: Her Pinkie Sense must have made her suspicious about what’s…(gulps) going on in the shop.
Me: And we have just entered into Act Two. And only so few have decided to leave; I'm holding out for a new record over here.
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Mea Culpa- "my fault"
Mea Maxima Culpa- "all my fault"
You'll often hear this phrase during a Catholic confession, and if you've watched Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame, you hear that phrase during one section of "Hellfire"
Hope that helps!
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Honestly, if you look at the song "Kiss Me"through a more critical lens, as well as the character of Johanna from the stage play, it could be implied that Johanna is so desperate for genuine affection that she's turned a bit mad. So going after a stranger just to escape her guardian's home seems just a touch more sinister.
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Me:"X2, were that completed clones of her there"?
X2:"No, the DNA they had was too old, the clones they made end up dead when they use on them"(https://i.etsystatic.com/11757966/r/il/44168d/2159030095/il_1588xN.2159030095_79og.jpg)"In order to make a perfect clone of her demon, they need this jewel and a fresh DNA sample of Sunset Shimmer".
Me:"Which means we on alarm in case, Post, you and Rex take Azula and Asajj to a holding cell and until the ships ready, X2, have your team on stand by, I'll take care of the jewel"(X2 hands Me the Demon jewel)"we best keep quiet from the others just in case".
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Post: Got it. *uses the Force to put them to sleep, allowing two hidden Ones to grab them* Take them in the stasis cells. That'll keep them quiet.
Post, Rex and Hidden Ones take them away.
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Me:(radio)" We also better keep eye on Sunset Shimmer as well, She will be targeted".
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Rex and I will take a couple of hidden ones with me to help make sure she's safe. I've already left more hidden ones to guard Azula and Asajj. They're highly skilled and know how to deal with benders and sith. I've briefed and trained them to ensure that doesn't happen.
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Look on the bright side, he taught us the #1 rule of being a superhero...
NO CAPES
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Tell that to Superman, Batman, or Thor.
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Those three were around for decades so they had plenty of time to know their way around a cape, while Syndrome was just some wannabe with zero experience in the superhero world.
Sorry to keep you waiting, Mr. E.
Meanwhile, back at Discord's Theater
Husk: "I hate to burst your bubbles, bitches. But you ain't goin' nowhere. Your so-called knight-in-shining-armor has gone let the cat out of the bag, and now you're all going to die like Hell..."
Charlie Morningstar: (To Husk) "Think positive, Husk."
Husk: (To Charlie) "I'm positive that everyone are going to die inevitably."
Husk: "No. You're all going to die..."
Big Mac: "Nope."
On the moon
Gallus: "My thoughts exactly about Professor Snape. Though, I hate to jinx it, but I seriously hoped that Dumbledore will have him fired before the next year at Hogwarts starts."
Silverstream: (To Gallus) "C'mon, Gallus. He's not all that bad. Don't forget, he did try to save Harry at the Quidditch game."
Smolder: (To Silverstream) "Yeah, well it ain't like we can expect him to award us any points anytime soon... Those are reserved to Slytherin."
Angel Dust: "Yeah. Listen to the LGBT bitch. She's got the hair and the tail to show for it, and she knows it."
Husk: "Hmph. Smart bitch."
Angel Dust: "Don't I know it? It's not all sunshine and rainbows in the real world, kid. That's life. And it's already a hell before hell."
Charlie Morningstar: "Still, that's why there's a thing called a leap of faith. You just gotta take the chances, to know you're gonna–"
Angel Dust: (Interrupts Charlie) "Crash and burn?"
Charlie Morningstar: (To Angel Dust) "Fly. I was going to say fly."
Husk: (To Charlie) "Yeah. If humanity was meant to fly, then God would've given them wings. Which he didn't, because he doesn't love us."
Charlie Morningstar: (To Husk) "Or...maybe he just wants us to be more...down-to-earth?"
Angel Dust: (To Charlie) "...And where is Hell again?"
Husk: "Yeah. That's how life works. It moves on without you bitch."
Octavia: "Hmmm. I kinda know the feeling."
Loona: [Texts on her phone]: "I was trapped in a pound for nearly 18 fucking years of my life."
Big Mac: "Eeyup!"
On the moon
Princess Celestia: "And I'm glad I did!"
Sunburst: "Story of my sister, Sunset Shimmer..."
Mina: "Yeah! Just like what Doc's taught me. Life's all about taking chances and making risks. But we need to take the initiatives to make them happen."
Angel Dust: "I'm afraid it's gonna happen sooner than ya think, equine bitch."
Angel Dust: "Told ya."
Pharynx: "Well, that's it. We're dead. The whole mission is dead. Our friends are dead. We're all gonna die. Might as well just dig our graves to get it over with."
Thorax: (To Pharynx) "Oh. Like we weren't dead already when you decided to mob Princess Celestia and had her tossed onto the moon before she got the chance to explain herself?"
Pharynx: (To Thorax) "I had a very good reason too. And I say what I did was justified!"
Atalanta: (To Pharynx) "That wasn't justice! That was vigilantism! Also, tossing a monarch onto the moon is like enacting a war with the ponies."
Charlie Morningstar: (To the changelings) "Will you guys knock it off? Can we just focus on the current issue?"
Thorax, Atalanta, and Pharynx: (To Charlie) "STAY OUT OF THIS!"
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I have to say, few villains, both from Equestria and from the other worlds our ponies have visited, have managed to piss off Twilight to the point of making her lose her composure, but Turpin hits the jackpot. It was about time someone gave that smug smug delinquent a good punch in the face. They can't stop Johanna from being taken to an asylum (which at the time, was worse than prisons), but at least they know where she is. I hope her plan to get her out succeeds (if a certain guy keeps his mouth shut).
"Johanna" is the best song in the movie for my taste, showing the impact that the same girl has on these two men: The lover who is prevented from being with the love of his life and the father who lost his daughter. Anthony may be the equivalent of Sweeney Todd when he was Benjamin Barker and he met and fell in love with Lucy. But while Anthony prioritizes love and seeks to save Johanna, Benjamin/Sweeney is blinded by rage and wants only to kill Turpin.
Speaking of which, seeing Sweeney killing those men who just wanted a shave makes me cringe and pity, and just because he couldn't kill Turpin at the time. And what better way is there to cover up a crime than to make the body "disappear"? "? Mrs. Lovett is capitalizing on this new ingredient to get her business back afloat, with surprisingly positive results (I confess, after seeing this movie for the first time, I didn't eat pies for months, meat or otherwise). class).
At least Todd doesn't kill everyone; and although it is logical to think that he does it so as not to have witnesses or to attract too much attention, it is evident that he does it because, despite his madness, he still has some humanity and empathy left.
But as careful as Todd, Chrysalis and Lovett are, they can't fool everyone. The beggar and Toby become suspicious (the poor boy has no luck with his tutors, he run away from the fire to fall into the embers). And what a surprise to see that Pinkie also begins to suspect something. I only hope that when she finds out the truth, she can recover from the trauma she'll have.
Meanwhile, back at Discord's Theater
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Granny Smith: "Harlots?! My flank!"
Big Mac & Sugar Belle: (To Granny Smith) "GRANNY!"
Granny Smith: (To Big Mac and Sugar Belle) "What? Them's fightin' words...
Angel Dust: "Mmmmm. I could just fuck myself looking at that ass all day."
Vaggie: "I'm sure any damsels-in-distress would rather be somewhere else than with you..."
On the moon
Gallus: "...Uh. No offense, Professor Snape. But you're more of a grandpa than a father..."
Charlie Morningstar: "You tell him, Johanna!"
On the moon
Silverstream: "YEAH!"
Vaggie: "...Say what?"
Sweetie Belle: "Uh...I know I'm going to regret asking this but...what does he mean by that?"
Octavia: "Uh oh. I've seen this before with mom."
Audience: "OH NOOOOO!!!!"
Party Favor: "No! YOU CAN'T ARREST OUR FRIENDS! You haven't even read their rights yet! You've skipped the part where you're supposed to read: You all have the right to remain silent! Any words you say will and can be used against you!"
Husk: (To Party Favor) "They do have the right to remain silent, dipshit. It's just the pink bimbo who is lacking the capacity."
Cheese Sandwich: (To Husk) "What'd you say about my wife?!"
Charlie Morningstar: "NOOOOOOO!!!!"
Angel Dust: "...Are you sure those bitches and Spikey-Wikey are the Equestrian Heroes? I'm no good guy, but I'm pretty sure this is the part where the heroes throw off their secret identities and fight the bad guys with their superpowers and rescue the damsel-in-distress..."
Discord: "...Yes. And this is also what we the writers call a plot hole."
Loona: [Texts to Discord] "You mean an asshole?"
Discord: (To Loona) "Not like that! Dirty hoe!"
Alastor: "Put that dog out! She's in a time out!" (Snaps his finger)
Loona gets tossed!
Derick: (To Alastor) "Was that necessary? She was our friend!"
Alastor: (To Derick) "Oh most indeedy, my dear boy! I don't like dogs, and dogs don't like me. In fact..."
On the moon
Katherine Proudpaws: "AAAAH!!!"
Fiona Floppyears: "RUH ROH!"
Moonbeam Twinkletail: "WAAAAAHHH!!!"
Jennino Lanternlight: "JINKIES!"
Indiana Embereyes: "JEEPERS!"
Ambrosia Muffinbuns: "ZOINKS!"
Next>>
Meanwhile, back at Discord's Theater
<<Previous
On the moon
Capper Dapperpaw: (Plays a harmonica)
Loona: [Texts on her phone] "Discord's Theater is getting a one star review."
Ocellus: "The moon's getting very crowded."
Princess Celestia: "I'm sure it was very lonely when Luna was here."
Loona: [Texts on her phone] "You talking about me?"
Gilda: "Don't just stand there gawking! SAVE HER!"
On the moon
Silverstream: (Singing) "In the light of day~"
Audience: "Ooooh!!"
Princess Cadence: (Impressed) "Wow! Twilight!"
Shining Armor: "That's my sister!"
Husk: "Well, the bitch can bite after all."
Flurry Heart: "GO AUNT TWILIGHT!"
Bulk Biceps: "YEEEEEEAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!"
Charlie Morningstar: "Alright, Twilight!" (Her eyes turn demonic) "CRUSH HIIIIIIIIMMMM!!!!" (Looks at the surprised looks from Vaggie and her friends) "Well, I want her to win."
On the moon
Gallus: "Yeah, that's right, Professor Snape! Go home and cry to your mommy!"
Big Mac: "Nope!"
Discord: "I'd give you ten points...if you were a Hufflepuff..."
Bulk Biceps: "YEEEEEAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!"
On the moon
Loona: (Tries to howl) "Arf...ar...aroo...aroo..." *Clears her throat* "Arooo....HRK!" *Coughs* [Texts on her phone to howl for her]
*Wolf Howling SFX*
Katherine Proudpaws: (Gives Loona a cup of tea) "Sore throat? Here, have some tea."
Husk: (Sarcasm) "No...ya think?"
Crazy Steve: "You want the truth? YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH!"
Alastor: "Under normal circumstances, it would've been as simple as to skip across the entire pages and chapters to the very end of the story. But why bother spoiling the surprises? We're barely scratching the surfaces to the good part it seems."
On the moon
Silverstream: "Oh wow! This is getting so intense! The suspense is killing me! I hope they find Johanna and save her before it's too late!"
Smolder: "As long as they don't screw up, like that time with Sunset Shimmer...then yeah, they'll find Johanna and save her before it's too late."
Gallus: (To Silverstream) "Don't worry, Silver. I'm sure they will. I know I would do the same for you."
Silverstream: (To Gallus) "Really?"
Gallus: (To Silverstream) "For sure! Because for what it's worth, you're a girl worth fighting for, and I'll be your hero."
I'll Be Your Hero
… I'm no Superman, I can't take your hand
Can't fly you anywhere you wanna go, yeah
I can't read your mind like a billboard sign
And tell you everything you wanna hear, but
I'll be your hero
I, I can be everything you need
If you're the one for me
… Like gravity, I will be unstoppable
I, yeah I believe in destiny
I may be an ordinary guy without his soul
But if you're the one for me
Then I'll be your hero
Could you be the one? Could you be the one?
… Could you be the one for me?
… Then I'll be your hero
… Could you be the one? Could you be the one?
Could you be the one for me?
… Then I'll be your hero
… Searchin' high and low
Tryin' every road
But if I see your face, I won't ignore it
… I put my trust to fate
That two will come away
And if it's right, it's undeniable, yeah
I'll be your hero
I, I can be everything you need
… If you're the one for me
Like gravity, I will be unstoppable
I, yeah I believe in destiny
I may be an ordinary guy without his soul
… But if you're the one for me
Then I'll be your hero
Could you be the one? Could you be the one?
Could you be the one for me?
I'll be your hero
Could you be the one? Could you be the one?
Could you be the one for me?
Yeah, I'll be your hero
So incredible, some kind of miracle
That when it's meant to be
I will become a hero
So I'll wait, wait, wait, wait for you
Yeah, I'll be your hero
I, I can be everything you need
If you're the one for me
Like gravity, I will be unstoppable
I, yeah I believe in destiny
I may be an ordinary guy without his soul
But if you're the one for me
Then I'll be your hero
Could you be the one? Could you be the one?
Could you be the one for me?
Then I'll be your hero
Could you be the one? Could you be the one?
Could you be the one for me?
Then I'll be your hero
Next>>
Lost On The Moon
Meanwhile, back at Discord's Theater
<<Previous
Thorax: "Then why am I not smiling?"
Pharynx: "Yeah! Be prepared! You'll be she's prepared! ....For what?"
Silverstream: "Like Robin Hood and Little John?"
Smolder: (To Silverstream) "You and Gallus are way into that Disney movie, y'know?"
Silverstream: (To Smolder) "Well, you've got to admit. The songs are catchy!"
Sandbar: (To Smolder) "Can't argue there."
Yona: (Agrees with Sandbar) "Yona like Hamsterdance song!"
Vaggie: "So close, yet so far away..."
Atlanta: "What are you up to this time, mother?"
Charlie: (Sings) "Johanna..."
On the moon
Gallus & Silverstream: (Sings) "Johanna..."
Alastor: "You know... I used to hate facial hair, but THEN IT GREW ON ME! HA HA!"
Angel Dust: "...What the fuck?"
Charlie Morningstar: "Really, Al? Now's a time for you to make jokes?"
Alastor: "Mmmm-mmm! Those meats are looking good. I should pop in on that butcher shop sometimes for some nice fat steaks and venison."
Charlie Morningstar: "He's throwing away a promising career!"
Octavia: "They've gone crackers!"
Silverstream: (Sings) "Johanna..."
Loona: (Tries to sing) "Jo...Jo...Jo..."
Alastor: :D
Atlanta: "I can't watch this..." (Covers her eyes)
Alastor: "Ha ha ha! Good man! Do remember to get the skins off. I want fresh meat! Not bubblegum."
Vaggie: "You would not believe how many serial killers have gotten away with murder."
Angel Dust: (To Vaggie) "Speaking from bad experience?"
Octavia: (To Vaggie) "Which is also why Loona's people runs an assassins business to kill people."
Charlie Morningstar: "Well, it's reassuring to see he isn't too far off gone..."
Atlanta: "But for mom...her's had been breaking for over a thousand years. That's a fate worse than death."
On the moon
Silverstream: (To Gallus) "Gallus? Do you think?"
Gallus: (To Silverstream) "...Maybe. But hoping, maybe not?"
Capper Dapperpaw: "Eureka! They've found her!"
Next>>
Meanwhile, back at Discord's Theater
<<Previous
Cheese Sandwich: "That...and of course, my Pinkie Pie's pinky senses were tingling..."
Gilda: "What do you mean, not tonight? Just get it over with already!"
On the moon
Gallus: (Quoting Robin Hood) "And for your honeymoon! London?"
Silverstream: (Giggles as she joins Gallus and roleplays Maid Marian) "Yes!"
Gallus: "Normandy?"
Silverstream: "Yes!"
Gallus: "Sunny Spain?"
Silverstream: "Why not?" (Takes Gallus by the claw)
Vaggie: "Okay! Okay. We get it the details. No need to get anymore graphic..."
Angel Dust: "And how long will that be?"
Angel Dust: "Here's an idea! Just nuke the whole asylum with your magic! End of story!"
Charlie Morningstar: (To Angel Dust) "With Johanna still inside? Absolutely not."
Alastor: "Hmmmm. My mother's cookings were just as good! Perhaps we could trade secrets about our mothers' cookings some times, Mrs. Lovett."
Everyone in the audience were all just as disgusted, whilst Alastor licks his chomps, eager for a sliver of the meat pies, new and improved.
Charlie Morningstar: "Wow. He's certainly a talented kid with the voice of a thousand angels!"
Angel Dust: (To Charlie) "Aw, you're too kind, princess."
Grand Pear: "That's because they have no idea what they're eating!"
Random Dude: "Wow! Who are you and what have you done to Bellatrix Lestrange?"
On the moon
Loona: [Texts on her phone]: "Christs on a stick. There is a god."
Discord: "YEAH! Throw the old woman out!" (Looks at Granny Smith)
Granny Smith: "WHAAAA!" (Tossed onto the moon)
Storm Shield: (To Discord) "You're seriously abusing your power to toss everyone onto the moon, y'know that?"
Vaggie: "Ew! And I thought Alastor has bad table manners..."
Alastor: "I heard that!"
Atlanta: (Covers her eyes) "I'm so ashamed."
Random sinner: "Work that money maker, bug queen!"
Random sinner: "HOW MANY TIMES DO YOU HAVE TO LEARN YOUR LESSON YA OLD HAG?!"
On the moon
Loona: [Texts on her phone]: "Smart girl."
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Dramamaster: Okay, that's it! It is DEFINITELY Discord! He's got to be the imposter!
Random Guy: But he was with us in the theater when all the Changelings and that Cherry Pie lady got knocked out.
Dramamaster: I'm not talking about the imposter outside the theater. Bear with me... there are 'two' imposters, but they couldn't have been out knocking out our friends all at once. One of them would be waiting with us in plain sight while the other would be out doing the work. Meanwhile, Discord would have 'any' and 'all' reasons to want to suddenly throw out a bunch of random guests to the moon. He was willing to throw out Princess Celestia when she was literally trying to explain her side of the story, he wanted to throw out the Student Six just because they'd likely be the most suspicious, he threw out all the others... well, mostly out of enjoyment... AND... LOOK AT HIM!
*Emphasizes Discord*
Dramamaster: He's 'literally' a former bad guy! He's got an imposter-looking face!
Random Guy: *Raises hand* But what would an imposter look like?
Dramamaster: *Pause for five seconds* I don't know. But whatever it is... he's got it!
<>
*From the moon*
Loona: *Studies Discords face on her cellphone, texts on her phone*: "No, no, I see it."
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As soon as this is over, everyone on the moon is gonna have a nice, long chat with Discord.
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On the bright side, they won't be subjected to eating fresh meat pies.
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I agree, the theater is about watching movies, not for throwing folks onto the moon for no reason.
Is Discord asking to be turned back into a statue? Because Fluttershy wouldn't be please with his nonsense.
I love your writing and this series of books so much! And I have an idea of the mane 6 and spike going to the world of Miraculous Ladybug, either as ponies or humans, and I wanted to know if you would want to do that for a sequel book after this one, not right after this one just if you decide to do it in the future lol.