Made in Manehattan
Pony's Log Number 516: While it can be more difficult, even ponies in the big cities can share a sense of community and friendship each other...
One day at the Castle of Friendship, Twilight was inside the castle's personal library as she used her magic to pull a book off one of the shelves. She let the book float about in the air before setting it down on her desk. Nearby she had made a two dimensional pyramid out of some books and had two stacks of books at her sides on the desk. Spike was just sitting close by next to a box filled with comic books. Twilight opened the book and began to read it with a bored look on her face, she then grunted and closed the book as she put it onto a stack. She even blew a raspberry at the book and grabbed another book from the opposite stack and opened it. She huffed annoyingly and put the book back on the stack except it was fanned out. She then gave a loud sigh and slumped forward in annoyance.
"I'm bored," said Twilight. Spike glanced at her from his comic book.
"But you're reading," said Spike as a matter of fact.
"I've read all these books already," said Twilight as the view zoomed out to show hundreds of thousands of books behind her on shelves that were dozens of yards high. One might think Twilight was just making excuses, but those who knew Twilight understood that she was fully capable of reading every book in her library...multiple times! Spike just rolled his eyes.
"And...?" Spike replied, "What about those dozens of books Mario bought you this month?"
"Read them all...five times," Twilight replied and stamped her fore-hooves on the desk, "and I'm bored! I wanna do something! Ugh...once again, Mario makes me look like a fool..."
"What did he do this time?" Spike asked.
"He was smart enough to invest his talents and skills in more than just one thing," said Twilight, "I spent my life just studying and learning magic, friendship included of course. Mario did all that and pulls freight trains, helps run both a party business and Rarity's boutiques, and helps Applejack manage the farm! Let's not forget he writes those talking train stories and is nearly done with volume five! He's never bored! Why? Because he puts his time into other things! I didn't! Now I'm bored!" Twilight then face-planted the table. Spike just gave her an unamused look.
"You could always ask Mario to help you find other things to do when he gets back from grocery shopping," Spike pointed out.
"Or I could ask if I can help him out for a change," said Twilight, "Mario makes pulling those trains so much fun! Maybe he can teach me how to pull coaches and freight cars!"
"Just don't use your magic to pull the train," Spike remarked.
"You're never going to let me forget Winter Wrap Up are you?" Twilight retorted annoyingly, "And as I remember, that was your idea!" Spike just shrugged his shoulders and went back to his comic books. Twilight just groaned. It was then Mario arrived inside the library.
"Honey, I'm home!" Mario called out.
"What took you so long!" Twilight complained. Mario flinched and then glared at her.
"Glad to see you too, dear!" Mario snapped and turned to leave.
"No, come back!" Twilight pleaded, "I need you right now!" Mario noticed how upset Twilight looked and hovered over to her.
"What's up my sweetie?" Mario asked as he pulled her into a side hug. Twilight just whimpered as she rested her head on his shoulder.
"I know we already had our routine date this week, but can we go on another?" Twilight asked, "Things have been so slow around here and I just-"
"Twilight! Mario! Twilight! Mario!" called a voice. Twilight and Mario zoomed out of the library and Spike followed. They wasted no time rushing into the throne room where they saw Rarity standing near the cutie map.
"Ooh, Twilight, Mario, darlings!" Rarity called out, "Oh, thank goodness! It seems that my-" It was then Rarity was interrupted when Applejack then burst into the room.
"Whew!" Applejack panted as she wiped her brow, "Got here as fast I-" Twilight, Spike, and Mario then gasped when they saw that Applejack's cutie mark was glowing and then turned to see that Rarity's cutie mark was glowing as well.
"Yes! Finally!" said Twilight excitedly, "We've been summoned! I wonder where the map wants us to-"
"Uh, Twilight?" Spike called out as he moved Twilight's wing to show that her cutie mark wasn't glowing. Applejack and Rarity just walked up with sheepish and apologetic looking smiles on their faces. Twilight felt a little disappointed until she blinked and turned to her husband, who was avoiding eye contact with her and had his wings opened to block his flank.
"Drop 'em, Mario!" Twilight snapped. Mario just sighed as he lowered his wings, showing that his cutie mark was indeed glowing. Twilight shot him a dirty look.
"Heh-heh?" Mario chuckled nervously and looked away. Twilight then groaned loudly and slumped before the cutie map.
(Main Theme)
Back in the throne room with the cutie map, Twilight put on a brave face as Applejack, Rarity, Mario all looked at their glowing cutie marks before an image of their cutie marks floated into the air.
(Cue Mario Odyssey "World Map" Theme)
Flower Sprites: 20
"Where do you think-" Applejack didn't have to finish her question as their cutie marks descended upon a familiar city. Rarity squealed with excitement. Applejack just looked a little worried.
"Manehattan!" said Rarity, "We've been called to Manehattan! Oh, I've simply been dying to go back for a visit! And now I return...with a purpose!"
"Oh yeah!" Mario cheered, excited about the location himself...until he saw Twilight glaring at him and said in a monotone, "Uh...I mean...cool..." Twilight just rolled her eyes at him jealously as she looked at the map.
"Hmmm," Twilight pondered aloud as she showed a part of the city suburbs, "It looks like you've been summoned to this particular neighborhood here."
"We're off the solve a friendship problem in one of the busiest and most vibrant cities in all of Equestria!" Rarity said excitedly as she tightly held Applejack's head and stuck her face into the orange pony's, "Isn't this exciting?!" Rarity then nearly choked Applejack when she wrapped a fore-leg around her neck. She then pushed her nose against the orange pony's nose so Applejack could get a close up of Rarity smiling and biting her lower lip to contain her excitement. Applejack just smiled nervously but Mario could tell she looked very uncomfortable as the orange pony got Rarity to back off a bit.
"Seems a hair odd, though, don't it?" said Applejack, "Map callin' me to a big city like Manehattan?"
"You may be more of a country pony at heart, Applejack," Twilight pointed out, "but the map picked you two ponies..."
"Don't you mean three ponies?" Mario pointed out, offended at being excluded.
"Zip it!" Twilight snapped, "...the map picked you three ponies because you're the best ponies to tackle this particular mission." Spike just nodded in agreement while holding his comic book, but still winced at Twilight snapping at Mario.
"But how will we even know what our mission's supposed to be?" Applejack asked and turned to Mario, "You've been on a few friendship missions, big brother. How do these friendship missions work?"
"This might be a bit vague, little sis," said Mario, "but basically we explore around and usually the friendship problems will just happen to cross our paths. You'll just know from your heart when we've found the exact problem...most of the time."
"That...doesn't make me feel any better or confident, sugarcube," Applejack replied.
"Sorry, AJ," said Mario, "but that's the most accurate way of describing these kinds of missions."
"Cause you're the friendship mission expert!" Twilight remarked in a very sarcastic and demeaning tone. Mario glared.
"How many times do I have to tell you I didn't ask to be part of every friendship mission or to be the bearer of the Flower Sprites!" Mario retorted. Twilight just gave him a raspberry and Mario growled.
"Easy you two," said Applejack, "I'm just saying that this friendship mission isn't going to be easy. That neighborhood probably has twice as many ponies as all of Ponyville."
"Pft. Kch. Ts!" Rarity spat, "More like three times! Why, it's not only home to the Haypacking District - it's also home to the Fashion District!"
"Umm, Rares," said Mario gently as he tilted his head to show that Twilight was feeling very sad and left out of all the excitement.
"Hmm. Shame you weren't called as well, though, darling," said Rarity as she and Applejack gave Twilight sympathetic smiles, "You did end up quite a fan of the hustle and bustle of Manehattan on our last visit.
"It's such an exciting city," said Twilight, "and there's still so much I'd like to do there. So many museums and historical landmarks to visit. Not to mention all the libraries!" Twilight couldn't help but hover into the air as she spoke, her excitement growing especially after she mentioned the libraries.
"But this is your mission, heh-heh," Twilight chuckled as she came for a landing, "Don't worry about me. I've got plenty of...books...to keep me...busy." Twilight then grabbed Spike comic book and started reading it. Spike just scoffed to himself and pouted indignantly. Applejack and Rarity shared funny looks with each other.
"Mm-hmm," said Rarity and Applejack together. Mario then hovered over to his wife.
"Honey..." Mario said gently.
"Just go!" Twilight yelled as she flew off, tossing the comic book at his face and slammed the door. Mario threw the comic book off his face and angrily rushed to the door and opened it.
"Fine!" Mario yelled back, "Maybe I won't come back!"
"Fine by me!" Twilight shouted back before she rushed into the library room and slammed the door.
"UGH!" Mario groaned loudly as he slammed the door and sat in his throne with a huff. The others just watched the scene unfold.
"I better go make sure Twilight isn't wrecking the library," said Spike as he picked up his dropped comic book, "Can't tell you how many times she leaves a mess and I have to clean it up."
"Just leave them wherever she throws them, Spike," said Mario angrily, "It really gets on my last nerve whenever she blames you for not picking up her mess. She can clean those books up herself!" Spike just sighed and left the throne room as Mario just sighed to himself. Applejack and Rarity just looked at Mario with concern. Rarity then gasped.
"I just remembered something!" said Rarity, "The Sisterhooves Social!" Applejack slapped her forehead.
"We'll have to miss it," said Applejack sadly, "No tellin' how long we'll be in Manehattan. I sure hope Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle aren't too upset."
"I can speak to Shenran to see if he'll spend some time with them," said Mario, "He's looking for a chance to build up his friendship with the two fillies."
"I think they would appreciate it," said Applejack. It was then Spike came back.
"Mario, please go settle things with Twilight," said Spike, "She's laying on the floor crying and I can't read my comic book with her crying so loudly!" Mario sighed heavily.
"Go to your wife, darling," said Rarity, "Applejack and I will find Shenran and we'll rendezvous at the train station." Mario smiled and nodded as he headed to the castle library. Rarity and Applejack headed on their way, but the latter couldn't help but look at the cutie map with a worried look on her face as they left.
Once Twilight and Mario had made peace and Applejack had found Shenran and asked him to spend time with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, which he willingly agreed, Mario, Rarity, and Applejack headed to big city of Manehattan. The big city was bustling with activity as the three ponies exited the train station. Applejack was carrying a large chest on her back, which belonged to Rarity. As usual, Mario had offered to carry it, but Applejack said she didn't mind doing it. Mario had also swapped his usual beret with a fedora hat that had a golden M on the front.
"Oh, Manehattan, what you do to me!" said Rarity as she grabbed a streetlamp and leaned forward while holding onto it. Mario then grabbed the other side.
"Start spreadin' the news," Mario sang, "I'm leaving today."
"Ooh! You sound just like Frank Sin-oat-ra!" Rarity said excitedly.
"Oh Rares," said Mario bashfully.
"I want to be a part of it," Mario and Rarity sang together, "Manehattan, Manehattan!" Applejack just rolled her eyes at the two and then blinked as she saw several taxi ponies zoom by in front of her. Applejack gulped nervously and suddenly felt very weak in the fore-knees, making them wobble. Mario and Rarity stopped singing when they noticed how nervous Applejack looked.
"Darling, are you all right?" Rarity asked with concern as she waved a fore-hoof in front of Applejack's face. Applejack shook her head to snap out of it.
"What's wrong AJ?" Mario asked worriedly.
"Ponies move so fast here," said Applejack, "Not at all like back home." Applejack then moved forward and accidently pushed between two ponies.
"Eyes peeled, ears open," Applejack told herself nervously, "Eyes peeled, ears open."
"Sis, you'll be okay," said Mario, "I'm here for you." Applejack gave him a small smile. It was then the traffic pony, named Rivet, blew his police whistle. Applejack then tried to move forward, but was quickly overwhelmed as several ponies bumped her about as they crossed the street in a hurry. Applejack then got bumped again as some ponies from the other side of the street arrived to her side. Applejack couldn't help but feel a little flustered over what had happened. Mario pulled her in for a small hug.
"It's okay, sis," said Mario gently, "You'll figure this out." Applejack just whimpered as they pulled away.
"Remember, Applejack," said Rarity as she walked over to them, "you're in the big city now. No moseying. You've gotta walk with speed and confidence." Rivet then blew his whistle again. Rarity then walked across the street, easily adjusting her path so she didn't bump into anypony and made it to the other side.
"Yoo-hoo!" Rarity called toward Applejack and Mario. The former looked at Mario before snorting and made her way across the street.
"Move it!" a pony named Diamond Cutter shouted rudely.
"Sorry 'bout that," said Applejack as she moved out of the way and right into the path of another pony.
"Ah, get outta my way!" a pony named Strawberry Ice shouted.
"Sorry!" Applejack retorted as she moved again and right into the path of two more ponies.
"Watch it!" the two ponies shouted angrily.
"Hey-Oh, dear," Applejack said wearily as she rushed to the other side of the street and dived for the curve and landed on her stomach. Rarity then noticed that Mario had just been watching the scene unfold and hadn't crossed himself.
"Mario, it's rude to keep a lady waiting!" said Rarity.
"Coming!" Mario shouted as he did a ground pound and then jumped two and a half times his normal height. He then threw his hat forward, using his magic to hold it in the air. Mario then dived at the hat and nimbly jumped off the top of it and moved forward. He then tossed his hat again and dived for it a second time, allowing Mario to easily reach the other side and roll forward a bit to make a smooth landing. Rarity was impressed while Applejack, still on her stomach, was a bit annoyed.
"Butter my biscuits," said Applejack as she stood and dusted herself off, "I can barely cross the street in this town. How am I supposed to solve a-"
"GASP!" Rarity said loudly in horror, "There!" Rarity then pointed to an earth pony mare about to buy a green hat and seemed to like it too despite the fact it covered her eyes. The pony's name was Pearmain Worchester.
"Yes, I think this is the one," said Pearmain Worcester as she went to give the stallion in charge of the hat stand, who was named Stinky Bottom.
"No!" Rarity screamed as she appeared, slapping the bit out of the mare's fore-hoof, "No."
"Excuse me?" Pearmain Worcester remarked, still wearing the green hat on her head.
"That hat clashes with your mane," Rarity explained as she removed the hat from the mare's head, "not to mention it's far too long and will undoubtedly obstruct your vision. Mario! Could you come give me hoof please?"
"Sure," said Mario as he headed over to the stand and the two ponies started searching the stand for a new hat.
"Hmm, I'm not seeing much here, Rares," said Mario.
"Oh, dear, you're right, none of these will do," said Rarity when she saw Applejack had caught up to them, "Oh, Applejack! What good timing!" Rarity used her magic to open the chest so quickly that the top of the chest bonked Applejack on top of her head. Rarity hummed, gesturing for Mario to come help, as the two ponies searched Rarity's collection of hats. Mario then pointed to a hat, which Rarity thought was just right.
"Here," said Rarity when she found a grape colored hat inside her chest, "This will do splendidly." Rarity then put the hat on Pearmain Worcester's head and held a mirror so the mare could see herself with it on.
"Oh, it's lovely!" said Pearmain Worcester, "How much would you like for it?"
"Oh, no-no, please, please, keep it," said Rarity, "I can always make another."
"Thank you!" said Pearmain Worcester and walked happily away. Mario and Rarity exchanged high-hooves with each other.
"And you thought we wouldn't discover our purpose here!" Rarity boasted to Applejack, "Pff. Kch. Ts!" None of the three ponies had noticed that Stinky Bottom was giving them a glare.
"Wait...what?!" Mario exclaimed at what Rarity had said.
"Yeah, I'm pretty sure that wasn't it," said Applejack bluntly.
"What?" Rarity exclaimed, "We just saved that poor pony from committing a terrible crime of fashion." Applejack just gave the marshmallow mare a raised eyebrow and a blunt look. Mario just had a blank look on his face.
"Well, she could've been meeting a friend who would've laughed at her new hat," Rarity explained, "and then the friendship could've been ruined forever! And...mmm...it's possible."
"Did your cutie mark glow signifyn' a job well done?" Applejack asked plainly.
"Ye-" Rarity then stopped when she realized her cutie mark wasn't glowing, "No. I suppose it didn't."
"Usually a friendship problem is something much more...unique," said Mario to Rarity, "This was just a routine "Fashion Disaster Prevention"."
"Point taken, darling," said Rarity, "but still, a disaster was averted!"
"Averted?" Stinky Bottom protested as he sternly approached the three ponies, "You just lost me a paying customer!" The three ponies winced.
"Oh, my!" Rarity exclaimed, "I-I-I-I-I'm s-so sorry. I never meant to-"
"Beat it!" `Stinky Bottom yelled, shaking a fore-hoof at Rarity.
"Hey! You can't talk to my sister like that!" Mario yelled back.
"Don't mess with me chump!" Stinky Bottom retorted angrily as the two stallions growled at each other. They were looking ready to fight and Mario was just about to summon a turn battle.
"Wah!" Mario yelped when Rarity pulled Mario back with her magic and she tried to do damage control.
"Uh, please accept my sincerest apologies for the misunderstanding," said Rarity, but Stinky Bottom was still giving the three ponies a death glare and shaking his fore-hoof at them, "and I might add, what a lovely establishment you have here!" Rarity just gave a nervous laugh as Applejack, smiling nervously, pushed the marshmallow mare away. Mario finally broke free of Rarity's magic grip and tried to go for an attack. Applejack grabbed his tail and pulled him back so she could push him away from Stinky Bottom as well. Once the three ponies were a safe distance away, Stinky Bottom finally walked back to his stand. Mario was very annoyed.
"Why'd you do that?" Mario snapped, "He was asking for a fight and I was ready to take him on!"
"Are y'all listenin' to yourself?" Applejack retorted, "Who tells us all the time that fighting never solves anythin'?" Mario huffed.
"Sorry," said Mario, "Guess I got overprotective..." Applejack chuckled.
"Well, no need to lose your cool, Big Brother," said Applejack as Mario nodded in agreement. Rarity then cleared her throat.
"You're right Applejack," said Rarity, "About Mario losing his cool and the friendship problem. The search continues!" Rarity had a determined look on her face while Applejack just looked rather annoyed.
"You know if you've got an idea on how we can find our friendship mission..." Mario pointed.
"Why do ya think I'm looking so irritated?" Applejack remarked, making it clear her irritation was because she had no ideas on what to do. Mario pondered and then got an idea.
"I just remembered that cousin Babs Seed lives in this big city," said Mario, "Maybe she can help us out."
"I like the idea, but there's one problem," said Applejack, "Babs lives on the other side of the city. I don't think she'll be any help." Mario opened his mouth to retort, but then sighed.
"You're right...for once," Mario remarked as Applejack just rolled her eyes at him.
Later on, Applejack was just walking about a very busy street corner.
"Uh, 'scuse me, I was just wonderin'..." Applejack tried to ask but nopony paid any attention to her and just kept walking past her, "Uh, friendship problem, anypony? See, we've been sent here to...A-A map summoned us and, uh...If you could just a take a moment to..." Applejack eventually stop talking and was left feeling rather discouraged. On the other side of the street, Rarity had set up an advice booth between two tall buildings along with a small stool to sit on.
"Friendship advice!" Rarity called out with a smile on her face, "Anypony looking for friendship advice!" Rarity looked about but then rubbed her sore cheeks from smiling so much.
"Good grief," said Rarity in exhaustion as she buried her face into her fore-hooves, "This isn't working." It was then Applejack approached her.
"I'm not sure what we're supposed to do," Applejack sighed, "To be honest, I'm not even sure what the map called me here for."
"Well, these Manehattan ponies could certainly use a healthy dose of country hospitality," Mario remarked as he landed, "I got told off more times than I could count just for standing on the sidewalk."
"I guess your patrol of the area turned up empty," Applejack asked.
"Pretty much," said Mario, "even doing a few acts of generosity didn't get me any leads or subtle clues either."
"Acts of generosity," said Rarity, "would that explain why you're not wearing your hat?" Mario looked at his head and chuckled.
"Well, this young colt was practicing his lines for a play with a trilby hat made out of newspaper," said Mario, "Apparently wearing a genuine hat helped him reach his inner actor and it got him his cutie mark. He needed my hat more than me anyway." Applejack just looked at him bluntly.
"Sometimes I wonder how we're kin and not you and Rarity," Applejack remarked. Mario looked hurt.
"Gee, if you don't want me for a brother I can..." Mario replied, not hiding the sadness in his tone.
"Oh, stop, I didn't mean to upset ya," said Applejack, "I know we have alot in common and I love having you for an older brother. I'm just worried that I won't be as useful to you guys for this friendship mission. That's all." Mario pulled the orange pony in for a hug, even kissing the side of her head, which made Applejack chuckle.
"Oh, try not to worry, Applejack," said Rarity, "The map picked us for a reason. Although how we're supposed to uncover that reason, I haven't a clue. We can't possibly approach every single pony in town until we find out what we're meant to d-ooh!" It was then a flyer that had been floating about in the air suddenly smacked Rarity right in the face. Mario and Applejack were startled by the flyer's sudden appearance as well. Rarity quickly pulled the flyer off and looked at it.
"Please help us restore our long-lost but beloved tradition, the Midsummer Theater Revival," Rarity read aloud, "There's a guest performance by a local theater troupe, the Method Mares..."
"Whoa! The Method Mares! That is so awesome!" said Mario excitedly.
"You know them?" Applejack asked.
"They are my favorite travel playwright group," said Mario, "I used to know one of the mares that's part of the group way back when I was in the Canterlot Junior Theatre Troupe."
"Ahem," said Rarity annoyingly from getting interrupted. Mario smiled sheepishly.
"Heh...sorry..." said Mario, "Please continue..."
"Aside from the Method Mares," Rarity continued, "as well as games, food, and much, much more. This event promises to bring our Bronclyn neighbors together and restore our sense of community, but there's so much to do and we need your help." Rarity mumbled the rest of the flyer as Mario looked at it from the side. Applejack just listened carefully from where she was standing.
"Huh," said Rarity aloud and then gasped excitedly as she showed Applejack the flyer, "Darlings, this is it! The contact on this flyer is Coco Pummel!"
"Oh, right!" said Applejack once she recognized the name, "She's the one you got a job makin' costumes for the designer friend 'o yours."
"She's also the one who helped me find the purple Power Heart and Rarity her key to the crystal chest," Mario added.
"Don't you see?!" said Rarity, "This must be why the map called us here! Oh, and you were so worried!"
"Let's not jump the gun here, Rares," said Mario, "But I will admit that an event that brings the community together sounds like a good place to find a friendship problem."
"Well, I suppose it's at least worth lookin' into..." said Applejack before adding nervously, "that is, if we can ever get off the street corner." Mario wrapped a fore-leg around her.
"Don't worry, Sis," said Mario, "I'll take care of you."
"Just don't go pickin' any more fights, ya hear?" Applejack warned as Mario sighed.
"I'm sorry," said Mario sadly, "When I saw that guy shaking his fore-hoof at you and yelling, I thought he was gonna hurt you guys. I know you two can handle yourselves, but I can't help but be protective sometimes. I'm the big brother of our little group, remember? I love you guys." Applejack and Rarity chuckled.
"Well, we love you too and we wouldn't mind an escort either," said Rarity as she wrapped a fore-leg around one of Mario's and Applejack did the same with Mario's opposite fore-leg.
"I can work with that," Applejack added. Mario just smiled and the three headed side by side to the address of Coco Pommel.
The sun was already setting once they found the building where Coco currently lived. The building was a tall apartment located in the heart of Bronclyn and just across the street from the public park. Coco was more than happy to see the three ponies as she welcomed them into her humble apartment home and served a kettle of tea and plate of mini jelly sandwiches on a table. The three ponies took a seat on a sofa across from the fashion mare.
"I can't believe you found my flyer," said Coco happily a she reclined slightly on a flat cushion, "Quite a coincidence, don't you think?"
"Applejack, Mario, and I were specifically summoned here to be of service," said Rarity as she grabbed a tea cup with her magic, "and you, my dear friend, are in need of help. It's no coincidence, darling. It's fate!" Rarity sipped her tea as Applejack and Mario each grabbed a sandwich to eat.
"This Mid Summer Revival -," Applejack asked after she swallowed her sandwich, "what is it exactly?"
"An outdoor play held at the community park," said Coco as she opened a book filled with pictures, "Many moons ago, local theater troupes would perform and ponies in the neighborhood would help make the costumes and design set pieces, prepare food to share during the performance." She showed them a picture of ponies watching somepony perform at a small outdoor theater, then another picture of ponies making the costumes, and a third picture showed Coco herself as a small filly as she painted the backdrop. She then turned to page to show some of the ponies preparing some food. Rarity, Mario, and Applejack smiled as they looked at the pictures.
"Y'all do look like you're enjoyin' each others' company," said Applejack, "Kinda reminds me of Ponyville."
"It reminds me of something I used to do with the Junior Theatre Troupe back in Canterlot," said Mario.
"I didn't know you used to do acting, Mario," said Coco.
"He's quite an exceptional actor," said Rarity before Mario could answer.
"But he's got stage fright issues," said Applejack as Mario blushed timidly. Coco chuckled.
"But the Midsummer Theater Revival does sound lovely, darling," said Rarity.
"It was," Coco replied until her smile turned into a sad frown, "up until several moons ago." The three ponies shared concerned looks.
"What happened?" Applejack asked. Coco then pointed to picture that had her filly self as well as some other fillies and an elderly mare with apricot fur and a two toned blue mane and tail. She was also wearing a purple sweater with a white feather boa, beaded necklace and large red glasses over her face.
"Hey, I recognize her!" said Mario, "Mom, or Princess Celestia, used to have tea and refreshments with her whenever she had a chance to see a play here in Manehattan. I think I might have met her once or twice, but I was too shy to say much."
"That's Charity Kindheart," Coco explained as she turned the page to show that it was Charity Kindheart who had given her the fabric floral hairpin she was always wearing, "She as a well-known costume designer on Bridleway. She started the Midsummer Theater Revival as a way to share her passion for theater in the neighborhood. No matter how busy she was, she always made time for the Revival." Coco then closed the book and headed over to her balcony, by now it was already nightfall and she could see some stars twinkling above the cityscape.
"But when she moved away to be closer to her grandfillies," Coco continued, "the neighborhood lost the special tradition she had started, and worse, the sense of community it fostered." It was then at the ground level an elderly mare was crossing the street when a taxi pony barely stopped in time to avoid running her over.
"Hey, I'm trotting here!" she yelled angrily. The taxi driver and its passenger just glared back at her before the driver took off behind the elderly mare. Applejack, Rarity, and Mario shared worried looks with each other.
"Nopony else stepped up to take over for Charity?" Applejack asked.
"I've been trying to," Coco answered, "But I've just gotten a last-minute request to alter costumes for the cast of My Fair Filly, and I'm afraid I haven't made much progress. Oh...There's just so much to do to bring back the Midsummer Revival, and my flyers haven't attracted a single volunteer!"
"Reminds me of the time the Canterlot Junior Theatre Troupe disappeared," said Mario.
"What do you mean?" Rarity asked.
"I never really quit the Theatre Troupe," said Mario, "My Mom loved watching the plays, which gave me the incentive to learn how to be a good actor and find a way to overcome my stage fright. Plus it was the first time I had ever made any friends. One you know was an actress in Hinny of the Hills and the other is now part of the Method Mares. After the second year, the pony in charge retired. Nopony else wanted to step up. Mom was so disappointed because she enjoyed seeing the plays, and seeing me in them. I actually tried to step up, and I'll admit that I was hoping to earn my cutie mark doing so, but it just wasn't meant to be. Even with my two friends helping me, nopony else believed I could be a leader and I was too shy to really convince others to help me support my cause. Soon we just accepted that the Troupe was over and parted ways. Our last visit was the first time I had seen one of those two friends since that day we separated. I just hope the second friend will remember me."
"I'm sure she will, darling," said Rarity, "When friendship is real, is lasts forever no matter how far you are apart. In fact, when you two see each other again, it will feel like it was just yesterday."
"I hope so," said Mario, "But in the end, continuing the Canterlot Junior Theatre Troupe was too much for me to handle. I pretty much had no choice but to deem it a lost cause and move on, which also meant finding another way to make friends. And that wasn't until I started magic school and met my future wife and the Canterlot group."
"I see," said Coco sadly, "So...should I just accept that the Midsummer Theater Revival is now in the past? Is trying to restore the tradition a lost cause?" Mario looked at her sadly before a determined look appeared on his face.
"I couldn't save the Junior Canterlot Theatre Troupe because I was a colt with only two very young fillies trying to take over a job meant for an adult," said Mario to Coco as he walked up to her, "That isn't the case here. And you've got friends who are here to help you out! Right my sisters?"
"Say no more!" said Rarity as she walked up to the two ponies and spoke to Coco, "You finish up your work, and by this time tomorrow, you'll be up to your mane in ponies who want to lend a hoof. Applejack, Mario, and I will make sure of it!"
"You will?" Coco replied with a large and hopeful smile on her face.
"You bet your boots we will!" said Applejack.
"Oh, I don't wear boots," said Coco, "I find they chafe my calves when I walk." Rarity and Applejack just winced as the latter gave Coco a blunt look.
"It's just an expression," said Applejack bluntly. Coco then gave the three ponies a very embarassed blush and smile.
"Don't worry," said Mario, "My little sis's countryisms can catch a pony off guard if you're not used to hearing them." Coco just giggled to herself and felt better.
The next morning, Applejack, Rarity, and Mario were at a local newspaper stand as Rarity explained the situation to the local vender, named Fine Print.
"So you see," said Rarity as she and the other two ponies smiled, "The Method Mares are only available on this one day, and we need all the help we can get with preparation."
"Yeah, not a good time right now," said Fine Print as a customer purchased a newspaper, "Heh. What am I saying? It's never a good time!"
"Try making time," Mario remarked as Rarity nudged him to keep quiet and they walked away. The group later appeared and Rarity explained the situation once more to a popcorn vender pony named Chock-full Carafe.
"Well?" Rarity asked as she finished her explanation and cleared her throat, "What do you think?"
"I got my own problems," Chock-full Carafe said rudely as the pony handed some popcorn to some other ponies standing in line, "You think I've got hours to dedicate to somepony else?"
"Helping others can bright your day," Mario remarked, "And did we mention the Prince of Friendship is helping out with the Revival?" Mario opened his alicorn wings. Chock-full Carafe snorted.
"Oh please," the pony remarked, "The real Prince of Friendship is much fatter than you!" Mario squeaked in shock and his wings went limp as he looked on the verge of bursting into tears. If there was one insult that hurt him more than being called worthless. It was being called fat, especially since he told his closest friends that he had a potbelly when he was a little colt.
"It's okay, darling," said Rarity as she and Applejack gently pulled a still devastated Mario away, "let's just get going!"
"Just shake it off, sugarcube," Applejack added gently, "You know that's not true." Mario just whimpered like a sad puppy in reply. Once Mario had recovered, the group headed toward some park area as Rarity, once again, explained the situation to stallion named Uptown Clover, even including Mario's involvement to see if it would help.
"Ah, yes," he replied, "Charity's Midsummer Theater Revival. Such wonderful memories. And the Prince of Friendship is helping out this year as well."
"So you'll help us?" Applejack asked.
"Oh, don't be ridiculous," Uptown Clover laughed, "I run a very important oat and hay import/export business. I can't spare even a moment for such things! Besides, if that's supposed to be the Prince of Friendship, you've got his appearance all wrong! He's much shorter and those wings look fake!"
"Hey!" Mario said, feeling very offended. Uptown Clover was then seen reclining lazily on a floatation sofa as some duck quacked nearby. Mario snorted.
"Yeah, you look so busy," Mario remarked bitterly. Rarity and Applejack just gave him sympathetic looks. Despite their best efforts, by mid-day, they had come up empty handed. Coco was very disappointed.
"This is a nightmare," Coco said sadly.
"Oh, not at all, darling," said Rarity as she picked up a hat with her magic, "It's quite lovely."
"I think she was talkin' about the Midsummer Theater Revival," said Applejack.
"I'm also talking about the way ponies were so disrespectful to Mario," said Coco, pointing to the alicorn Prince just sitting sadly on her sofa with a glum look in his face, "If it had been Princess Celestia, they wouldn't have dared said such things to him! I still don't understand why Suri had the nerve to do so! Mario is such a sweetheart! He saw the good in me long before I ever found the courage to stand up to Suri and follow my own path!"
"Glad to know at least you respect me," said Mario with a sad smile on his face. Coco smiled back before just sighing sadly.
"I'm glad you're feeling better, Mario, but it still doesn't solve my problem," said Coco, "I finished the alterations for My Fair Filly, but I've barely started on the costumes for the Revival, and the Method Mares are coming to the park tomorrow for a costume fitting and rehearsal."
"Well, I could help you with the costumes," said Rarity.
"But what are going to do about the rest?" Coco asked, "The park is in desperate need of repairs, and the sets still need to be built!" Coco bit her fore-hoof nervously. Mario and Applejack looked at Coco before exchanging smiles with each other.
"Well I know a thing or two about buildin' and fixin' things," said Applejack, "it's kinda, well, my thing. Could be the reason the map called me here!"
"Possibly," said Mario as he walked up and stood beside his sister, "and I can build and fix things too. So I'm good for whatever you need help with the most!"
"You see, dear?" said Rarity to Coco, "We went out looking for volunteers when all the help you need is right here."
"You're right, Rares," said Mario, "if we want this Revival done right, we can do it ourselves. Three adult ponies should be able to do what three foals weren't able to."
"Uh-huh," said Applejack in agreement as the three ponies stood side by side of each other.
"The map wouldn't have chosen just Applejack, Mario, and I if it was more than we could handle," said Rarity as the three ponies smiled, "Everything is going to be just fine!"
However, when they reached the area of the park where the festival was going to take place, the three ponies were immediately left stunned and overwhelmed. The park was a complete mess. Weeds were growing everywhere, The Outdoor Theater was very run down and looked like it could collapse at any moment. The sitting benches were rusty and moldy. It looked like the area hadn't been touched in moons.
"Homina, homina, homina, homina, homina..." Mario muttered in shock.
"Perhaps I spoke too soon..." said Rarity wearily.
"Oh, dear, you're right," said Coco, "Are you sure you can manage this just you and Mario?" Mario shook his head a bit to snap out of his shock.
"Well, there's a lot to do, but Rarity's right," said Applejack, "The Map wouldn't have called us here if we weren't up for the challenge. You two go on and take care of the costumes. Mario and I can handle this, right big brother?"
"It's a tough task," said Mario, "I can't use my freight cars and I didn't bring my mini-Mario toys for help, but...I've never turned my back in a tough challenge so let's do this!"
"Yee-haw," said Applejack, "Mario and I will see you at the dress rehearsal." Rarity and Coco smiled and headed back the latter's apartment. Applejack just gulped and winced nervously.
"Big Brother," said Applejack timidly.
"Yeah?" Mario asked.
"I'm not even gonna try and be stubborn about this," said Applejack, "I don't think we can do this. I don't know why I said we could. I'm gonna let everypony down I just know it!" Applejack buried her face into her fore-hooves. Mario grabbed her fore-hooves with his own.
"All we can do is try, little sister," said Mario, "and we Apples don't give up without a fight!"
"Darn tootin' we don't!" said Applejack feeling much more confident.
"Ready..." Mario called as he squatted before the orange pony.
"...Yeah!" Applejack shouted as she mirrored him and the two siblings shared a firm high-hoof.
"Yee-haw!" they cheered.
"Now let's get started!" Mario said confidently.
"You betcha!" Applejack added as the two ponies got to work. Applejack then pushed a wheelbarrow in front of herself as she got to work pulling some weeds. Mario had his own wheelbarrow as he got to work. It was a good hour or so when they had both filled up their wheelbarrows with pulled up weeds. Applejack went to wipe her brow when she noticed that they had barely cleared maybe a couple of square yards of weeds and there was still alot of ground to cover that were covered in lots of weeds. Applejack just face-hooved herself as Mario groaned annoyingly.
A little later, Mario continued on the weeds as Applejack used a push-powered lawnmower to trim the grass. Mario took noticed that Applejack was moving so quickly that she didn't notice that a low tree branch had knocked off her stenson hat. Mario tried to continue using both his fore-hooves and magic to pull more weeds and made his way toward the hat when he saw Applejack coming back. Mario gasped when he saw that her hat was right in front in her path and she wasn't stopping!
"AJ!" Mario cried out, "STOP!" Applejack gave him a glare and was about to tell him to be quiet when...
WHIRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
Applejack drove the lawn mower right over her hat.
"I was trying to tell you that your hat was on the ground and you were gonna run over it," said Mario as Applejack picked up the now damaged hat and looked at it sadly.
"Don't worry, Sis," said Mario gently, "It was an accident. When this is all over, I'll try and fix it." Applejack smiled, but she was still feeling sad that she had damaged her favorite hat.
Next, Applejack and Mario continued to try and clear out as many weeds as they could. Then Applejack found herself struggling to pull out a stubborn weed. Then the weed snapped, causing Applejack to roll backwards into a statue that began to wobble dangerously and started falling right at her.
"SIS!" Mario screamed and with a WHOOSH, he pushed her out of the way just in time as the statue came crashing down on the floor. The statue was damaged from the impact and while Mario had saved Applejack, her stenson hat had fallen off and was underneath the damaged statue. Applejack just looked more dejected. Mario looked at her sadly before he used his magic to lift the statue so he could salvage her hat and not damage it further.
"Sorry," said Mario sadly as he handed her the hat. Applejack saw how sad he looked and gave him a small smile.
"It's alright, sugarcube," said Applejack, "Now let's get back to work!" Mario agreed as he gathered all the bags of weeds and grass clippings and sped away to deliver them to a compost bin. However, despite his speed, Mario took a long time to return and was still gone as Applejack found herself feeling exhausted. She went to sit down on a nearby dirty and moldy bench, but then it collapsed underneath her. Applejack was now feeling very depressed.
"I need my big brother," She whimpered, wishing Mario would come back that very moment and give her a hug.
Once she had recovered, she got to work trying to give the theater a new coat of paint. She was also looking rather dirty and had spots of paint on herself. It was then Mario arrived.
"Where in tarnation have ya been?!" Applejack snapped, "I could really use your help right now!" Mario just gave her a glare.
"It's not my fault I had to go all the way to the Manehattan harbor to find a stupid compost bin," said Mario, "Plus I just had to hit every single red light! Every single one! Make it stop! MAKE IT STOP!" Mario then made a chasse sofa magically appeared and started crying just like Rarity would.
"This is no time for ya to be acting like Rarity right now, big brother!" said Applejack sternly, "We're falling behind schedule and I need your help scoping the theater for the repairs!"
"Sorry, Sis," Mario sniffled as got off the chasse sofa and made it magically disappear, "I got frustrated and needed to cry it out a bit. I'll get to work on those renovation blue prints so I can start the repairs."
"That's all I ask," said Applejack as she got back to painting and Mario started quickly zipping about and sketching the theater for some repair blue prints. It was then Rarity and Coco arrived with a rolling clothing rack that had the completed costumes on it.
"I know it looks bad, but we're movin' as fast as we can," said Applejack, "Even Mario's speed seems to have been affected by red traffic lights and far away compost bins." Applejack then accidentally stepped into the can of paint and tried to shake the can off her fore-hoof. Mario then stepped over to Applejack and pulled the can off himself as he started scanning his newly made blueprints and took notes on the materials he would need.
"Don't worry, we've still got plenty of time," said Rarity, "Everything's going to be-"
"Um, excuse me?" said a male voice. It was then the three ponies noticed two stallions and two mares standing nearby. Their leader was a stallion named On Stage.
"Sweet Celestia, the Method Mares are early!" said Mario.
"Is this where the Midsummer Theater Revival is supposed to be, perchance?" On Stage asked as he lowered his sun glasses. Mario then noticed a purple mare wearing a grape juice colored sweater and beret on her head. Mario blinked when he recognized her.
"Razzle?" Mario asked, using her old nickname, "Is that you?" Her professional demeanor melted away into surprise.
"Do I know you?" she asked puzzled. Mario smiled.
"The best actors channel their fear into their acting," Mario said gently, "using it as a drive to give their best performance." Raspberry Beret then smiled.
"Mario!" she exclaimed as the two shared a hug together, "Oh my stars! It's been so long!"
"Indeed it has," said Mario, "Nice to see you're living your dream as an patron of the theater." Raspberry Beret giggled.
"Well, I'm certainly looking forward to working with you for the Revival," Raspberry Beret replied before she noticed the run-down theater, "Assuming there still going to be a Revival. We're here for the dress rehearsal?"
"Oh, yes!" said Coco as she walked over to the clothing rack, "We've just put the finishing touches on the costumes."
"At least those look professional," said a stallion named Late Show to another mare named Stardom.
"Will you be performing with us, Mario?" Raspberry Beret asked.
"I just got here to help with fixing up the area for the Revival," said Mario, "I don't even know the script." Raspberry Beret just chuckled.
"I'm sure you could learn it," said Raspberry Beret, "Plus we used to be quite good at improvisation back in the day."
"Yeah, the good old troupe," said Mario with a sigh, "Good times...except for my stage fright."
"Ooh, that I remember all too well," said Raspberry Beret, "Considering you're a Prince. I'm assuming public speaking doesn't make you pass out anymore, hmm?" Mario blushed.
"Thankfully no," said Mario, "But I still get nervous." Raspberry Beret just smiled as she headed over to Coco.
"We'll do a dry run of the play first," Raspberry Beret told the fashion pony, "and then the fitting." Raspberry Beret then headed to the stage. Mario and Applejack gasped.
"Razzle!" Mario called out.
"No, wait," Applejack added, "We haven't gotten a chance to-" It was then Raspberry Beret stepped onto the stage and suddenly the entire structure began to wobble. Applejack pushed her out of the way just as the entire stage collapsed.
"Razzle, are you alright?" Mario asked as he helped both her and Applejack to their hooves. Raspberry Beret nodded as they all looked to see the stage had completely fallen apart.
"...reinforce the stage yet," Applejack finished wearily. Mario groaned as he tossed his blue prints aside. He wouldn't be needing them anymore.
Later that day, Coco was just observing the wreckage from her balcony window. With the whole stage collapsing, the Method Mares had decided to just rehearse elsewhere and that included the dress rehearsal. But nothing was near ready for the Revival.
"I just wanted to live up to Charity's example," Coco sighed, "to bring my neighborhood together again. But the park is still a mess, we haven't even thought about what refreshments to serve during the performance, and even if we had, we don't have a stage for the Method Mares to perform on! It's hopeless...just hopeless!" Applejack, Rarity, and Mario just shared glum looks with each other.
"So much for being helpful..." Mario said sadly, but also in a hushed tone.
"I don't understand," said Rarity in the same tone, "The map summoned us here to solve a friendship problem. We're clearly found it, but why did it send the three of us? Why not Twilight? I'm sure she could have used her magic to transform this park in an instant! Wait...Mario why didn't you use your magic?" Mario snorted.
"Found out unicorns, or alicorns in my case, have to own a permit to perform large scale magic like that," said Mario, "and since we're on a time crunch, I doubt anypony would want me to deal with the Manehattan Bureaucracy." Applejack and Rarity winced and shook their heads in reply.
"Anyway, I've been thinkin' the same thing," said Applejack, "I mean, I can at least see why you and Mario are here - Coco's your friend, and you both have an eye for costumes and all, even if Mario didn't help with that I'm sure he would have been fully capable - but me? I was never gonna be able to finish a project this big. Even with Mario's help!"
"Sorry I let you down..." Mario trailed off sadly and covered his face with her fore-hooves.
"We'll return to Ponyville as failures!" Rarity said dramatically as she leaned into Applejack's foreleg and started to cry, "Why must this be, Applejack? Why? Why? WH-" Rarity was then cut off when Applejack shoved a fore-hoof over her mouth.
"Now hold on there," said Applejack, "I'm not suggestin' we pack up and go home."
"Then what are you suggesting," said Rarity in a muffled tone before spitting out Applejack's fore-hoof from her mouth, "Then what are you suggesting?"
"Yeah, because I'm fresh out of ideas," said Mario in a glum tone as he stood beside his sister.
"I'm suggestin' we stop worrin' about what we can't do and start doing what we can," Applejack suggested as they all walked up to a rather depressed Coco, "I think I've got a plan. It won't be anythin' big or fancy, but it'll be somethin'. And somethin's gotta be better than nothin' right?"
"I suppose so..." said Coco in a half-hearted tone.
"That's the spirit!" said Applejack but then shared worried look when she saw how depressed Coco looked, "Sorta..." Rarity and Mario exchanged worried looks with each other.
KNOCK-KNOCK-KNOCK
"I'll get it," said Mario as he quickly teleported to the door and opened it. He was surprised to see Raspberry Beret at the door.
"Razzle?" Mario asked, "What brings you here?"
"On Stage needs to know if there is going to be a performance at all tonight," Raspberry Beret replied, "In spite of yesterdays...misfortunate circumstances." Coco just looked at the ground as Rarity and Applejack gave Mario some smirks.
"If there was one thing our old theater troupe taught us," said Mario, "is that the show must go on! Applejack has an idea to ensure that the Method Mares will be able to perform by tonight."
"Splendid," Raspberry Beret replied, "Because On Stage was able to add a minor adjustment to the play script."
"What kind of adjustment?" Coco asked worried since the play script has remained fairly unchanged since she was a filly.
"Just a little added act so that my old acting partner can have a part in the play," Raspberry Beret replied with a smirk.
"Wah?!" Mario yelped in surprise, "Oh please, Razzle, I'm so rusty..."
"Are you kiddin' me?" Applejack replied, "You're a better actor than you think Big Brother. Plus I've seen you memorize entire books in just a couple of nights. I can handle my idea without ya, now go on."
"We would love to see what Raspberry Beret has in mind for you," Rarity added. Mario sighed as Raspberry Beret pulled him away.
"Come on," said Raspberry Beret, "It'll be just like old times!"
"The fact your dragging me on stage against my will already brings back the nostalgia," Mario remarked sarcastically as Raspberry Beret laughed. Applejack and Rarity just snickered to each other and got to work.
By the time the sun was setting in the sky, Applejack had managed to quickly put together a small and simple stage for the Method Mares, which now included Mario, to perform on.
"Alright, y'all, it's ready!" said Applejack and Coco and Rarity, who were sitting on the sidewalk. Coco was rather impressed at the simple stage when On Stage peaked out of the curtain.
"Should we go ahead and start?" On Stage asked.
"Before y'all do, how's my big brother?" Applejack asked as she took a seat beside Rarity.
"He's fine," On Stage replied, "he did try to pretend to pass out once and Raspberry wasted no time reviving him with a good smack to the stomach."
"Yeah," Mario said in a strained tone, "Hurt back in the day too." Applejack and Rarity snickered as Coco gave a firm nod for them to begin. The curtain them opened as On Stage stood before a drawn prop desk and had a paper over his cutie mark as part of his costume. It was then Raspberry Beret appeared on stage dressed in her costume.
"Excuse me," said Raspberry Beret, "I'm Charity Kindheart. I'm here about the open design position. I brought some samples of my work. I'm sorry I'm late. I had the hardest time finding my way here." As Raspberry Beret continued, a mare was walking down the street when they noticed the play and decided to sit down and watch.
"I just moved here, and I keep getting mixed by the street names!" Raspberry Beret continued as she began to cry, "I had a map, but I dropped it in a puddle, which only made the street names harder to read!" Then another mare was walking by with a little Pegasus colt. The colt, named Cloudy Daze, noticed the performance.
"What is that?" Cloudy Daze asked.
"I dunno, sugar," said the mare, who name was Blueberry Curls, "looks like some kinda play."
"Well, can we stay and watch it please? Please, can we, can we?" Cloudy Daze pleaded, even shaking Blueberry Curls as he got into her face.
"Oh, alright," Blueberry Curls conceded as she pushed him away from her face, "I suppose we could stay for a minute." Back on stage, Late Show came into the stage.
"Excuse me, but your next appointment is here," said Late Show.
"Alright. Send him in," On Stage replied before turning to Raspberry Beret, "I'm sorry, but based on these samples, I just don't think this is the place for you." Raspberry Beret gasped dramatically.
"Don't get me wrong," said On Stage, "These clothes are all exquisite and well-made, but more theatrical then avant-garde. Have you considered costume design? I have a contact on Bridleway! If you are interested, I can put you in touch with him...And scene." The curtain closed. Applejack, Rarity, and Coco turned around to see that several ponies were not muttering and taking seats to watch the play. The three ponies exchanged smiles with each other as the curtain opened for the next act. Coco blinked and smiled when she saw the scene.
"I actually know this scene," Coco told Rarity and Applejack, "Charity had originally wanted this scene as part of the play, but due to time constraints she had it removed." The backdrop was a painted drawing of what appeared to be the backstage of the main theater on Bridleway as Raspberry Beret walked on stage from the left to Late Snow, now donning a new costume that both Applejack and Rarity knew Mario had put together himself last minute.
"Can I help you?" Late Show asked rather snootily.
"Hello there, a contact of mine asked that I show my...costumes...to your head producer, Smash Hit?" Raspberry Beret asked.
"For the last time!" Mario barked from off stage, playing the role of Smash Hit and speaking with a Scottish flux, "Just because we don't have proper costumes yet doesn't mean that the show should be brought to a standstill!" Raspberry Beret flinched at the yelling.
"As you can see, Mr. Hit is rather busy..." said Late Show when Mario appeared on stage. Applejack and Rarity had to bite their tongues not to cheer loudly when they saw him in his costume.
"What's going on here?" Mario demanded sternly, "I am not paying you to stand around all...who is this?"
"Um, well...s-s-sir," said Late Show as Mario stared him down.
"The name is Charity Kindheart," said Raspberry Beret, "I was sent to show you my costumes." Mario kept on a blank expression as he walked over and examined the costumes first hand.
"You know, Ms. Kindheart, I am not an easy stallion to impress," said Mario snooty, "I've invested alot of bits into being a successful producer and I don't want just anypony to be our costume designer. They've must have charisma, talent, and share my vision of making my productions touch the hearts and souls of the ponies who watch them. These costumes must serve more than just allowing ponies to identify with my characters, but bring those characters to life!"
"I...I understand sir," said Raspberry Beret timidly. Mario gave her a stern look.
"As I said before, Ms. Kindheart," said Mario bluntly, "I'm not easily impressed." Raspberry just smiled nervously before a warm smile appeared on Mario's face.
"But these costumes impress me," said Mario as Raspberry Beret smiled excitedly, "How would you like to be my head costume designer?"
"Oh I would be honored Mr. Hit," said Raspberry Beret happily.
"Just call me Smash," said Mario, "...and Scene." The curtain closed to end what was literally a last minute bonus act. Applejack and Rarity clapped lightly.
"Wow, Mario was such a good actor," said Coco in a low voice, "He could have become a theater superstar if he wasn't the Prince of Friendship."
"I kind of surprised myself," said Applejack in the same tone, "But big brother is a pony of many talents." Rarity nodded in agreement as the curtain opened to show Raspberry Beret pushed a prop cart as she approached Stardom, who was playing an elderly mare that was supposed to be feeding some birds.
"Charity dear, is that you?" Stardom asked.
"Hello, Mrs. Pearblossom!" said Raspberry Beret, "I didn't see-oops!" She pretended to accidentally drop a garment on stage.
"Oh, let me help you, dear," said Stardom as she picked up the garment and handed it to Raspberry Beret, "Are these the costumes you've been working on?"
"Yes, I was supposed to be finished by now," said Raspberry Beret, "but there's just so much to do, and I still have a few last minute alterations to make before opening night! I'm sorry I couldn't get enough tickets for everypony in the neighborhood. I hope Mr. Pearblossom wasn't too disappointed. I know Trotter on the Roof is one of his favorites."
"Oh my dear filly, don't worry about that," said Stardom, "We're so proud of you. We shall be with you in spirit!"
"Thank you!" Raspberry Beret replied, "You've all made me feel so welcome here and have become like family to me! I just wish I could share this experience with you and the others!" As the play continued, the crowd watching the show was continuing to grow as passerbys took notice and took a seat in the middle of the street.
"Eh, what's going on?" a pony named Rivet asked a mare named Luckette.
"It's the Midsummer Theater Revival," said Luckette, "The Method Mares are performing!"
"The Revival," Rivet replied with a content sigh, "Mhm, yeah. My pop used to bring me." He put his hat over his chest as he took a seat to watch the show. By the time the sun was setting, the play was coming to an end. The street was now filled with a large crowd of ponies watching the play. On stage, Raspberry Beret was pretending to sew as Stardom was with her.
"So nice of you to put on this play for the neighborhood," said Stardom.
"I couldn't have done it without everypony's help!" said Raspberry, "I know it's not Bridleway, but-"
"Oh, pish-tosh!" said Stardom, "It's perfect, dear!" On the audience, a pony named Strawberry Ice was eating some popcorn as she watched the play. A small filly ran about as she held onto a balloon. Then an elderly mare named Pearly Stitch appeared looking for a place to watch the play. A young stallion scooted over so she could have a place to sit.
"Oh, you're such a dear, thank you!" Pearly Stitch replied, "This is so nice. Haven't seen the neighborhood this friendly since Charity moved away!" Coco, who had heard the remark, blushed shyly to herself as Applejack and Rarity gave her some supportive smiles. Applejack and Rarity then exchanged a hoof bump as the play ended and the crowd cheered and applauded. The four Method Mares ponies as well as Mario, stood on stage and bowed for the audience.
"Thank you fillies and gentlecolts," said On Stage, "and let's give a warm thank you to Prince Mario, our honorary fifth member of the Method Mares, for taking part in our little production on such short notice." The crowd cheered and applauded as Mario just blushed and took a bow.
"And now," said On Stage, "Please give a warm welcome to the one who made this entire event possible - our neighbor Coco Pommel!" Coco gasped as she was surrounded by ponies cheering and applauding her. She then found herself lifted into the air and carried gently over to the stage. Once Coco was back on all four hooves, she turned to face the crowd.
"Thank you all so much for coming," Coco said to the crowd, "The Midsummer Theater Revival was always something that meant so much to me, and it seems it means quite a lot to all of you as well. I really can't take all the credit, though. My dear friends Rarity, Applejack, and Prince Mario helped me ever so much." It was then Mario stepped up so he was standing beside Coco as Rarity and Applejack walked up on stage. The former was able to keep her composure while the latter felt a little shy and just blushed and waved at the audience.
"Oh, darling, please, It was just a few costumes," said Rarity modestly.
"It was just a small scene in the play," Mario added.
"Aw, shucks, I just happen to be good with a hammer is all," said Applejack, "To be honest, we had much bigger plans to start. When those fell through, we decided to simplify. This here was the result."
"Oh, don't be so modest," said Rarity, "Coco, Mario, and I were lost."
"You bet your boots we were!" said Coco, giving the orange pony a wink. Applejack just smiled and winked back.
Soon everypony was just chatting with each other and having a good time. Rarity, Applejack, were just watching all the friendly chatter when Raspberry Beret appeared and wasted no time giving Mario a hug.
"You are splendid, Mario," said Raspberry Beret as she pulled away, "and here you were saying that your acting skills were rusty." Mario chuckled.
"I guess once an actor, always an actor," said Mario, "Thank you for the opportunity to perform."
"And you handled your stage fright so well," said Raspberry, "You are certainly not that shy little colt I used to know."
"Well, I wouldn't say I've fully gotten over my shy nature," said Mario, "But I have learned to be more assertive and stand my ground."
"Good to hear," said Raspberry Beret and looked at something behind her, "I think I'm being called but it was nice seeing you again Mario. I hope we can keep in touch."
"Of course," said Mario, "and if you're ever in Ponyville, let me know." Raspberry Beret nodded and headed back to the crowds. It was then a mare named Viola and Uptown Clover appeared.
"We just wanted to say how much we enjoyed the Midsummer Theater Revival and how much it inspired us!" said Viola.
"Oh, yeah?" said Applejack.
"I used to think that to help my community I had to do something big," said Uptown Clover, "Heh-heh. And let's face it - in this day in and age, who has the time for such a commitment? But here, you did something as simple as building a stage and putting on a play and, heh, look at how it's brought everypony together. I also want to extend an apology to Prince Mario. I didn't mean to sound so insulting before. Alot of us here in Manehattan could never imagine that a pony of such high royal standing would ever be interested in the community and welfare of ponies like us." Mario just smiled and nodded to accept the stallions apology.
"I saw Coco's flyers for volunteers but didn't think anything I'd have time to do would be that useful," said Viola, "Now I wish I'd offered to help, even if it was just pulling a few weeds or planting a few flowers." Applejack, Mario, and Rarity smirked.
"Not sure if you noticed," said Applejack as she looked at the still existing wreckage of the park, "but the park is far from bein' fixed up. I imagine if you look around, you'll find there's lots of little ways for you to get involved in changin' this place for the better."
"And I will!" said Viola.
"And I don't think we'll be alone!" Uptown Clover added as he and Viola walked away. The three ponies then flinched when they looked to see that their cutie marks were now ringing.
"Yee-hoo!" Applejack cheered as she, Mario, and Rarity shared a group hug together.
"That's not all you guys," said Mario as he pointed up. Applejack and Rarity looked up as three Flower Sprites floated down above their heads. The three smiled and jumped up to grab them.
(Cue "You got a Flower Sprite" fanfare)
The Flower Sprites floated down as the three ponies stood on their hind legs. Then each pony grabbed their Flower Sprite, twirled once and then held it above their heads.
"WA-HOO!" Mario cheered before the three Flower Sprites floated above Mario's head and entered his body for safekeeping. Rarity then gasped.
"I understand now!" said Rarity as she walked off a bit, "It all makes perfect sense!"
"Huh?" Applejack asked.
"What does Rares?" Mario asked. Applejack was then taken aback when Rarity used her magic to grab Applejack's tattered stenson hat and dumped it into a nearby waste basket.
"Should I..." Mario asked, knowing how much that hat meant to the orange pony.
"It's alright," said Applejack. Rarity then found Stinky Bottom and gave him a bit for an exact copy of Applejack's hat, but now brand new, and put it on the orange pony's head.
"I know why the map called you here," said Rarity to Applejack.
"You do?" Applejack remarked.
"If Twilight had used her magic to fix the park, it wouldn't have fixed the real problem," Rarity explained, "which is that these Manehattan ponies didn't think they had time to do something for their community! But by building that stage and making sure the play went on, you showed them that just by doing something small, you can make a big difference!"
"That's true," said Mario, "Even a little effort can have a huge impact. All you gotta do is at least try." Applejack was most impressed.
"Well, I'll be!" said Applejack.
"Seems you have more in common with the Manehattan ponies then you thought!" Rarity pointed out as Mario chuckled.
"Heh-heh," Applejack chuckled, "But all the same, I'd sure like to head back to Ponyville on the next train. I want to check in with Apple Bloom and find out how the Sisterhooves Social turned out, especially since Shenran said he was going to be lookin' out for both my sister and Sweetie Belle."
"Oh, absolutely, my dear," said Rarity as the three ponies headed to the street corner and then got a panicked look on her face, "Just as soon as I stop that pony in the shop over there from purchasing that dreadfully hideous scarf! Stop! You're making a terrible mistake!"
"Here we go again! Hoo-hoo!" Mario told Applejack before going after the marshmallow mare.
Applejack just sighed and smirked as she watched Rarity and Mario run off. It had been a long and busy day. Despite the fact the orange pony agreed with what Rarity had told her.
She was always going to be a country pony at heart.
Bet none of you expected Mario to actually be in the play. Hope you enjoyed his small role.
As I said before, don't worry too much about keeping track of the Flower Sprites. The inconsistent numbers just imply that there have been friendship missions and Flower Sprites that were never seen during the season.
Plus the hat hopping move Mario used is based on an advanced parkour move from Super Mario Odyssey. Only expert players can pull it off perfectly.
I liked Raspberry Beret, especially her outfit and later her personality when she came back in season 8. After all, with Mario having such bad stage fright, there had to be somepony to keep him calm and relaxed and get him on stage when he couldn't move in his younger days. Besides, there's only one other one-time pony that Mario is going to claim to know this season, but that won't be til much later.
Next chapter actually takes place back in Ponyville during the same time this chapter was going on. Since Mario can't be part of the plot, Shenran will take center stage as he helps Big Mac...embrace his feminine side?! (oh boy...)
Peace Pony Fans!