Beauty is in the Eye of the Tigerby GlueFactoryChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 1Rarity tapped her hoof as she stared with anticipation at the stage being built in Ponyville Square. The small rope separating her from the stage may have well been a sheer, see-through wall. She couldn’t help but marvel at how the town was going all out. Construction ponies set up the lights while roadie ponies worked on the sound system. The more posh unicorns hung up a banner which read: “First Annual Miss Ponyville.” Rarity bit her lip with excitement as they set up a table on stage with a small drop box. She didn’t even notice Applejack trotting up behind her. “Mornin’, Rarity,” she called. Rarity’s ears when straight and her eyes went wide. Looking at back at her friend, she played with her curls while smiling, looking at no pony in particular. “Oh, eh heh. Good morning, Applejack,” she said. “What brings you here today?” Applejack answered with a nudge of her head toward the apple-cart she pulled. “An’ I thought I was the early riser,” she laughed. “What brings you round these parts at this time o’ day?” Rarity pulled her curl so tight it bounced back and bopped her in the face. “Uh heh heh... well... it's called being fashionably....eh, early, Applejack.” AJ crooked an eyebrow. “....... Uh, early for what?” Before Rarity could fabricate an answer, a local colt removed the rope which separated her from stairs to the stage. Rarity rushed up in her most lady-like manner to drop a slip of paper into the entry box. “Thanks for your pre-entry,” said a nearby unicorn, fixing up the curtains. “Good luck.” Rarity beamed as she headed off the stage to a grinning Applejack. “First in line for a beauty show... color me surprised.” Rarity threw her head back, looking away from the Earth pony. “Humph. Go ahead and yuk it up, Applejack,” she replied. “If you must know, this isn't just another vanity project.” AJ responded with a deadpan grimace. “Right.” “Not,” Rarity gave a pause, finally meeting her eyes. “Entirely. I'd be remiss if I didn't at least try. If I compete in the first Miss Ponyville Pageant, it'll be a huge boon to my boutique. But,” she added, smiling towards AJ's hat, “I don't need to tell you that.” “Why not?” asked Applejack. “This,” crooned Rarity, as she pulled an entry slip from on top of AJ's hat with her magic. “Ha ha! Such a coincidence you being here so early. How very business savvy of you.” “What the....?” sputtered Applejack, watching smirking Rarity wave the entry slip in her face. “That ain’t mine,” she yelled. “Y’all know I’m just here to open shop.” “Too late, my dear,” said Rarity, her smile now a full grin. “Say, how about I treat you to breakfast? Say... a fillet of crow.” “Now, you listen here.” started Applejack. “I- “Oh, those poor crows,” said a voice from above. Applejack and Rarity looked up to see Fluttershy, who quickly went from looking wide-eyed and trembling to quickly looking away and rubbing her hooves. “Fluttershy?” said Rarity. The interruption gave her the chance to read the slip. “You’re entering?” Gingerly bracing her legs for a soft landing, Fluttershy kept her eyes from meeting her friends'. “Oh.. um... sort of... not really. Um... you can go back to fighting if you want.” “We're not fighting. That's just good-natured ribbing, sweetie,” assured Rarity. “Sure is,” smiled Applejack, nudging the unicorn. “You prissy early bird.” “Fair enough,” said Rarity, conceding to AJ before returning her attention to Fluttershy. “I thought you didn't like the attention, dear.” “Well,” cooed Fluttershy, regaining her composure. “Being Miss. Ponyville means you get to pick a big town project. And... well... I'd like to see more ponies help taking care of the woodland creatures. I think that would be wonderful.” “That's so sweet,” said Rarity. “Well now, don't let us stop you.” “Oh... okay.” Taking the slip in her mouth, Fluttershy headed to the stage. Several moments passed.... Fluttershy hadn’t moved... “What's wrong, sugarcube?” asked Applejack. “Uh... well..... ” “Yes?” pried Rarity. “I just remembered I don't like the attention,” squeaked Fluttershy. Rarity fought the urge to urge to smack her forehead. Applejack put one leg around the pegasus and gave her a gentle smirk. “Hey now. No need for nerves,” she said. “Tell you what. How 'bout I enter with ya?” A quick stern glance from AJ stifled the sudden giggle from Rarity. “You'd do that for me?” asked Fluttershy, her eyes going wide. “Sure as shootin'. If ol' Applejack can do it, then it's no sweat for you.” “Sure,” smiled Fluttershy, feeling coming back to her legs. “No sweat.” Fluttershy looked and felt much better as she dropped in her slip after Applejack, who quickly scribbled her name on a fresh slip right on stage. Both came back down and Rarity gave Fluttershy a big hug. “Ohhh, good luck Fluttershy,” she said. “You too, Rarity.” Whatever giddiness the two were holding down couldn't be contained. Both Rarity and Fluttershy jumped around giggled like like they already had won, leaving Applejack feeling a little out-of-place before she got a crushing hug from Fluttershy. “Thank you thank you thank you, Applejack,” she said. “Ooof! Heh, no problem. Anything for a friend.” “Pleeeeeese say you'll stop by Sugarcube Corner this afternoon, I owe you for today.” “You got it. If''in you'll give me my legs back first.” “Oh... sure.” That afternoon at Sugarcube Corner, Applejack was into her second “Thank You” milkshake with the rest of the gals, while Fluttershy and Rarity went back and forth, recalling their eventful morning. “After the drawing, the judges will send a special messenger to deliver the acceptance letters by this evening, how exciting,” tittered Rarity. “I don't know if I should be excited or nervous, but I feel great,” whispered Fluttershy. “And I have Applejack to thank.” “Well I for one think it's very commendable of you Applejack,” said Twilight with a smile. “I just wish some ponies could see that.” At the end of the table, Twilight glared at Rainbow Dash, who hid her face with one hoof and banged the table with the other. Twilight tried to reassure herself that it was a step up from earlier with Rainbow guffawing for five minutes straight, but not by much. “AJ in a beauty contest... I... I can't breathe,” snickered Rainbow. “This is too great.” It also didn't help that Pinkie Pie, who was supposed to be serving them, was draped over Rainbow laughing along with her. “Pinkie,” protested Twilight. “I get Rainbow, but you? “I'm laughing cause she's laughing,” snorted Pinkie, as she and Dash finally calmed down to more tolerable giggles. “Forget it, Twi,” said Applejack, giving a tight smile. “'Sides, this work horse ain't interested in that whole song and dance.” “Too bad,” said Rarity. “Because singing and dancing are part of the contest.” “And flower arranging, gymnastics, bird calling, kitty snuggling all sorts of things,” daydreamed Fluttershy, laying her chin on her hooves. “With several types of costume contests, how grand,” added Rarity. Rather than make a face, Applejack slurped the last of her milkshake. “Well let me just say good luck to all of you,” said Twilight. “Okay... okay..” gasped Rainbow. “For real, good luck everypony. Especially you..... ha ha... Applejack. Ahhhh ha ha ha haaaa.” “Hee hee sorry, Applejack,” said Pinkie Pie between snickers. “Can't help it... hee hee.. but good luck. Ahhh ha ha ha.” A ring from the bell on the door to Sugarcube diverted the attention from Pinkie and Dash to a fancy mail unicorn holding a small satchel and taking out a silver envelope with his magic. “Excuse me,” began the messenger. “Oh my stars and garters it's already here,” gasped Rarity, looking away. “How do I look? Is my mane alright? Oh do I have any chocolate on my face?” Fluttershy gulped hard. Seeing the messenger shrank her two sizes down into her chair. “Now hold on an apple buckin' minute,” yelled Applejack, banging the table to grab their attention. “Don't tell me after all that fussin' 'bout this thing, you two are gettin' cold feet?” “You're... you're right Applejack,” said Rarity smoothing out her mane. “Come on, Fluttershy.” She took a deep breath, “Right.” As they approached the messenger they both saw the single letter floating in the air. Rarity suddenly put a hoof in front of Fluttershy to stop her. “Rarity, what are you-” “Could you give us a moment, please?” said Rarity in her most polite voice to the messenger. The posh mail pony shrugged as the envelope continued to float about. “Fluttershy,” Rarity began. “I want to promise something to you.” “What? Why?” “It's only one envelope sweetie, that means only one of us was chosen to compete.” “Oh... I see.” “And I just want to let you know that... if you win... I won't be jealous. In fact, I'll do everything I can to help you win. That is my promise.” “Really?” smiled Fluttershy. “Well then I promise you the same thing. I'll do anything I can to help if they choose you.” “Then it's settled,” said Rarity. “No jealously.” “And one hundred percent support,” said Fluttershy. “Deal.” “Deal.” “Deal,” butted in the messenger. “Now do you mind, I was told I'd find a contestant here and I have a schedule to keep...” “Of course,” said Rarity, batting her eyes. “How rude of me. Yes, the both of us entered the Miss Ponyville Pageant.” “Well okay then,” said the messenger looking at the envelope. “Let's see here.” Both eager contestants drew in their breaths and held hooves, giving the other a “Good luck” nod. “Okay... now... which one of you,” said the messenger, straining his eyes at the envelope. “... is Apple.... Jack?” Chapter 2“It ain't possible,” blurted Applejack again, reading through her acceptance letter for the tenth time. “It just. Ain't. Possible.” “Er, ah, congratulations?” said Twilight, with a nervous smile. “Er... sorry?” “Congratu-sorry?” asked Pinkie Pie. “I'm the one who should be sorry,” said Applejack, looking at Fluttershy. “I made a big ol' mess of things. Can you ever forgive me, Fluttershy?” “It's okay, Applejack,” smiled Fluttershy, giving AJ a loving nudge. “I wasn't really expecting to win anyway.” “But what about your little critters?” “Oh they'll be fine. Nothing wrong with me spending more time with the animals.” “I know you're just trying to make me feel better,” sighed Applejack. “But I'm still really sorry. Same goes for you Rarity, I know how important this pageant was for- …. uhhhh... Rarity?” Rarity hadn't budged the whole time. It had been minutes since the messenger left and the unicorn was frozen with the kind of expression she'd give if someone told her potato sacks were the new chic. Rainbow Dash floated above Rarity, waving and clomping her hooves in front of her face. “Yo, Rarity? Yoo hoo. Equestria to Rarity?” Applejack hung her head even lower. “Um,” said Fluttershy, trying hard to find the words. “Rarity sure is ... eh.... surprised.” “I’ve got this,” proclaimed Rainbow. The others watched as a multicolored blur zipped to the kitchen, breaking a tray of ice cubes into an empty pitcher and filling it with water. Zipping back, she proudly dumped the cold mixture right on Rarity, soaking her through. She didn't even blink. “Okay,” muttered Rainbow. “Wow.” “Great,” said Twilight. “Now Rarity's catatonic and wet. I-.” Twilight tried to catch herself, but it was too late as she saw Applejack head towards the door. “Uh, I-I mean, she sure is surprised, uh right, Fluttershy?” “Forget it gals,” said Applejack, sounding more determined. “I know what I gotta do.” “What's that?” asked Twilight. “Simple, I'm telling who's ever in charge they made a mistake.” “But Applejack,” began Fluttershy. “My mind's made up, Fluttershy. I ain't one for beauty contests,” With that, Applejack exited Sugarcube Corner. The awkwardness and silence hung in the air. Fluttershy and Twilight could only look at each other and shurg. Pinkie was about to say something, stopped, thought about it, tried to say something again, then stopped and thunk about it again. Rainbow, undeterred, scowled in Rarity’s face. “Jeez, snap about it already,” she demanded. “Okay that does it.” Rainbow lifted up one of the unicorn’s ears and leaned in close. Rainbow cleared her throat, took in a deep breath and... “You can't quit!” yelled Rarity. Twilight nearly stumbled over Fluttershy who ducked right under her. With a yelp, Rainbow Dash fell on her back, clutching her chest and breathing heavily, her eye twitching. Pinkie just smiled. “Welcome back Rarity,” she said. “Fluttershy,” said Rarity, frantically reaching for the pegasus. “We have to stop her.” . “But-” and a quick “mew” was all Fluttershy could muster as Rarity grabbed her and ran out the door. “Well,” remarked Twilight. “Today was certainly.... eventful.” “Seriously....” said Rainbow, picking herself up. “Applejack enters a beauty contest?” “And they pick her?” added Pinkie. “I know hilarious,” said Twlight, rolling her eyes. “Give it a rest already.” Pinkie and Rainbow looked at Twilight like she grew a second horn then looked back towards each other. “We’ve totally gotta get some good seats,” said Rainbow, bouncing and them hovering in the air. “Heck yeah!” shouted Pinkie with an equally high hop impressive for a non-pegasus. “Let’s go before somepony else grabs ‘em!” “Huh?” blurted Twilight, seeing the two leave the shop. “What happened to ‘AJ in a beauty contest, har har har?’” “That airship already sailed, Twi, get with the times,” said Rainbow on her way out. “What do you wanna do to cheer on Applejack?” “Ooooo I know I know,” said Pinkie as she and Rainbow left Sugarcube Corner. “How about apple-shaped balloons? Or some really awesome-looking signs? Oooo! Or since we’re cheering her on, let’s make a cheer! ‘Bric-a-bracka, fire-cracka, sis-boom-bah! Applejack! Applejack! Rah rah rah!’” Twilight was left alone, still trying to process what just transpired. Outside, Applejack found herself cut off by a soaking wet Rarity with Fluttershy in tow. “Applejack, stop,” ordered Rarity. “Won't you think this over?” “Uh, hi,” squeaked Fluttershy. “What the?” said Applejack, taken aback. “Look, nothin' doin'. Okay?” “But it's such a rare opportunity. Pleeeease Applejack,” pouted Rarity. “Look, all the primmin' and properin' may be fun for you, but not this gal, and nothin' you say is gonna change my mind.” As Applejack walked past, Rarity bit her lip tightly. Before she could protest again, Fluttershy halted her. “It's okay, Rarity,” she said, smiling. “If Applejack wants to quit, then we should respect her decision.” Applejack stopped right in her tracks. “What did I hear about quittin'?” she asked flatly. “Oh! Um... I was just saying that-,” Fluttershy could only stammer as Applejack stomped towards her. “Now look here,” she said. “I. Ain't. Quitten'. I'm gracefully bowin' out. Okay?” “Okay..” said Fluttershy. “I'm not gonna waste my time purdyin' up for some contest, okay?” “....okay....” “Okay.... glad to have that settled, then.” Applejack began to trot off, but found Rarity keeping pace alongside her. “Good call, Applejack,” she said, winking behind her towards blankly staring Fluttershy. “Well thank you, Rarity.” “Your decision is both practical and very level-headed.” “I'd like to think so.” “I mean, not everypony can compete in such a pageant.” “Yeah, sure.” “And it's very mature to know your limits.” “Know my...? Wait a sec...” “I mean the very idea of you becoming Miss Ponyville is quite honestly... well....” “Is what?” asked Applejack, stomping her hoof. “There ain't nothin' to it. Just put on a dress an' smile. It's hardly plowin' a field or apple-buckin'.” “Well of course... if that's what you think.” Applejack stopped and gave Rarity a good long stare. “Y'all thinkin' I can't do it.” “Oh Applejack,” cooed Rarity. “It doesn't matter what we think.” “Sure doesn't, ha ha heh....” said Fluttershy, frantically forching herself between the two, beads of sweat on her face. “In fact you should just start ignoring us right now.” “But Fluttershy,” said Rarity with a thick layer of smarm. “I was just complimenting Applejack for knowing when to cut her losses.” “Oh that tears it,” growled Applejack. “I could win this beauty contest hogtied and blindfolded if I wanted.” “Ohhhh, of course you could, Applejack....” said Rarity, rolling her eyes. Fluttershy was practically gnawing on her hooves. “Darn tootin',” yelled Applejack. “See if I don't!” “You will?” asked both Rarity and Fluttershy suddenly. “But I... I can't just...” began Applejack trying to catch herself. But before she could finish, she found herself looking into the hopeful, pleading, wide eyes of a white unicorn. “.....can't just... make a decision like this without hashin' it over with the Apple family y'know.” “Yes, of course,” said Rarity. “You go and... hash.” “Okay then,” said Applejack, heading home. As Applejack turned and walked away, Fluttershy looked at Rarity, then toward Applejack, then toward anyplace sutible for cowering. She finally settled on wrapping her tail around herself like a security blanket and chewed at her lower lip. “I didn’t mean to... I understood why she didn’t... a-all I meant was... “ she studdred when Applejack was out of earshot. “Oh my, what did you do, Rarity? Oh me, what did I do? Oh my goodness, what have we done?” “Really Fluttershy,” smiled Rarity. “Don't you think Applejack could win?” “You.... you really think so?” “Of course. Applejack would make a fantastic Miss Ponyville. She has looks, personality and has a strong character, all the traits needed to win. But I knew she wouldn't go for it so I had to... needle her a bit.” “But.. it doesn't feel right.” “Don't worry, we'll be helping her the whole time.” “Really?” Fluttershy began to smile again. “Really. For now we have to wait. Um, Fluttershy sweetie?” “Yes.” “Why am I sopping wet?” “Ummmmmm...” Chapter 3Applejack wasn't prone to groaning, but being sandwiched between Rarity and Fluttershy, who bounced around like two fillies in a candy shop with her in tow, was as good a time as any. “Soooo it went well?” said Twilight. Applejack pried herself loose from the impromptu group hug. “If you'd call it that. Applebloom was a titter, all: 'What a great idea! You're soooo pretty Applejack!' Ehcccch. Then Granny Smith chimes in sayin' that she used to win beauty contests left and right and had a whole stable of gentlecolt callers....” “Well that's kinda sweet,” smiles Twilight. “And kinda gross,” added Rainbow Dash, under her breath. “I’m looking to Big Macintosh for some support. What do I get?” said Applejack. “Yup?” asked Twilight. “'Yup,” said Applejack. “That's great,” said Pinkie, bouncing between Twilight and Rainbow. “They think you can do it.” “An' how do you expect me to do it?” said Applejack, getting more flustered. “Ah' don't know nothin' 'bout prettifying.” It was then she noticed Rarity and Fluttershy approaching her from both sides. “What now?” Applejack asked. “Oh Applejack, dear sweet Applejack,” said Rarity, putting a hoof around her. “You have nothing to fear.” “I don't?” “Rarity and I made a promise that whoever was chosen for the pageant, we'd do anything and everything to help,” whispered Fluttershy. “This includes you,” said Rarity. “So no need to fret, we'll whip you into grade A pageant material.” “Well now, hold on,” said Applejack, moving away from the two. “I'm not one for puttin' on airs. If I'm doing this, I'm doing it honestly. Got it?” Fluttershy and Rarity exchanged the briefest of glances before they smiled at Applejack, Rarity’s smile being the more tighter of the two. “Oh ho ho, of course,” she said. “We won't make you do anything you don't want,” cooed Fluttershy. “We just want to make sure the judges see the... best parts of you,” added Rarity. “The best parts?” Applejack gave it a seconds thought. “Alright, when do we start?” AJ's remark made Rarity give an excited bounce. “Excellent,” she said. “We can start right now.” “Right now?” asked Fluttershy. “Right now. We have only the rest of the week until the pageant so we need to get cracking. We can start with that....” Applejack couldn't figure out why Rarity was pointing towards her head. Then it dawned on her... “My hat? Uh uh, no way no how.” “Well,” whispered Fluttershy, glancing towards Rarity. Her voice couldn’t help but shake as her volume decended into tiny squeeks “That's okay.... um.... you don't have to... if you... don't want to..... win....” They everypony else strained to hear Fluttershy, Applejack made out enough. She responded by shooting a stink eye to no one in particular. “Oh............ alright,” she relented. Fluttershy gave a nervous smile to Rarity who was hoof-pumping outside of AJ's sight. “Y-you.... you could leave it back at the farm,” reassured Fluttershy. “Heck no,” said Applejack. “Last time I did, Applebloom used it when she lost her slop bucket. I think I'd better leave it with you gals.” “Ooo ooo,” said Pinkie, bouncing toward Applejack. “You can leave it with-” “Me!” interrupted Rainbow. AJ found her head bare as Rainbow swooped down and carried her hat skywards. “Hey,” shouted Pinkie. “Rainbow,” yelled Twilight. “Wha?” said Rainbow, the hat in her mouth. “She asthed.” “It's okay,” said Applejack. “You listen here Rainbow, you take good care of her y'hear?” “Duh, easy peasy jeez-lawezzey,” said Rainbow as she spun the hat around her hove as she headed off. “And don't you go wearin' it either,” called Applejack. Again, Applejack found herself surrounded by her new two-pony fashion team. “All right,” said Rarity. “Let's get to work.” “Hooray,” quietly cheered Fluttershy. “Hooray....” groaned Applejack. For Applejack, the last two days felt like a montage. She first found herself in front of a mirror at Rarity's boutique. Excitedly, the unicorn had a whole swath of haircare products ready. “Ready to get let that mane down?” asked Rarity. “Let's just get this over with,” replied Applejack. “Oh tut tut, Applejack. We just need to smooth out those knots and cut out those nasty split-ends.” Taking out a full-bodied brush with her magic, Rarity began to comb. Or tried to comb.... “Grrrrf. I must ask... rrrrrf. How long..... oof, since you last combed your mane? “Let's see. How long ago was the last Grand Galloping Gala?” “Almost a..... rrrraagh, a year.” “Well then, longer then that, I think.” “You think? Applejaaaeeee.....” Rarity trailed off as she found her brush devoid of bristles. “What? Done already?” “Yes. Done,” said Rarity flatly, tossing the now bare bush aside. “Fluttershy's waiting outside.” Outside, AJ stood perplexed as Fluttershy rolled out a long wide stretch of paper with hoof marks dotting across it. “Hate to tell you hon,” said Applejack. “But someone done walked all over your paper.” “Its a dance sheet,” answered Fluttershy. “It'll teach you all the popular moves, and help you practice how to be light on your feet. This is the Trottingham Two-Step.” “I don't think I need a piece a paper to teach me dancin',” laughed Applejack. “But it's really useful, just one try?” “Fine.” “Okay, I'll go first to show you.” Fluttershy effortlessly twinkled her hooves across the parchment. She turned, spun and neatly landed on the other side with nary a wrinkle on the sheet. “See? Easy. Now it's your turn.” “Kay. Here goes...” BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM Despite Fluttershy taking cover in a nearby bush, Applejack looked mighty proud of herself. “That wasn't hard at all,” she stated. Until AJ looked at the tattered, flaming remains of the dance sheet. “Uh. Heh heh, whoops.” “It's okay,” said Fluttershy, gingerly getting back up. “That was quite...... graceful?” AJ crooked an eyebrow her way. “Maybe,” Fluttershy continued. “Just for fun we'll try it a few more times.” The spa went just as swimmingly for Applejack, first getting a manicure. “This should smooth out those tough ol' hooves,” said Rarity. On AJ's hooves, both her and Rarity found out that, yes, even a nail file can catch fire with enough speed and friction. AJ could also count herself the first in the spa's history to injure several massage ponies trying to loosen up her back. Fluttershy almost went horse with the apologies. Back at the boutique, Rarity attempted to get one thing accomplished for Applejack. Sitting at a table, Applejack watched as Rarity cracked a raw egg into a glass. Her grimace increased with every egg, from two, to four and finally to eight raw eggs swimming in a glass. “Blech,” said Applejack, until she started scratching her chin. “Oh, I get it.” Rarity turned away in order to read more of her book,”The Perfect Facial.” GULP GLUP GULP Her eye twitching, Rarity slowly turned to see an empty glass and Applejack wiping her mouth. “Ok, what else ya got?” Rarity didn't reply. She’d already passed out. Chapter 4“That bad, huh?” asked Twilight. “I thought it would be fun,” said Rarity. “But Applejack is so... rrrrf... impossible.” “Rarity,” silently protested Fluttershy. “She's doing her best.” “I know I know. But she has the manners of a goat and the grace of a sick buffalo.” “Well that's rather harsh....” “Harsh, but true.” “I hardly think it's true...” “Well a heh, um,” interrupted Twilight. “Maybe you’re going at it the wrong way?” “But I'm an expert at make overs,” said Rarity. “I can turn around any kind pony.” “Applejack isn't any kind of pony,” said Twilight. “Think about it, what do you know about her?” “Well,” said Fluttershy. “She's honest, kind, reliable....” “Good head for business and a pro at farming...” added Rarity. “Strong, tough, a little bit...... aggressive....” “Chews with her mouth open.” Rarity is responded to with glares. “Oh, I'm not the only one here who notices,” she shot back. “She's a work horse,” stated Twilight. “Of course all this pampering wouldn't work.” “So what you're saying is...” began Fluttershy. “We have to stop coddling her, and start getting tougher,” finished Rarity. “Oh. But I'm so good at coddling....” “Twilight is correct Fluttershy. For her sake, it’s the only way to turn that country gal into a Southern Belle.” “But she said she wants to win honestly. What if she get's upset? What if she gets angry?” “Do you want her to win or don't you?” “I do... but-” “Then the kid gloves have to come off, I'm afraid.” “Can't we leave.... one kid glove on?” “Well good luck,” smiled Twilight. “I hope it works ouuuuuuuuuuu...” All three ducked in time to avoid a low-flying cloud. “Yeeeeee-haawwwww,” yelled Rainbow Dash, wearing Applejack's hat and riding on the cloud. “Get along little cloudie!” The cloud dived and rolled through the sky, trying to buck off Rainbow. Flying so close to the rooftops, she didn't see Pinkie on top of Sugarcube Corner with a fishing pole. “Wooo hoooo, yippie-ki-yo-ki-hey,” Rainbow felt AJ's hat snatched off her head and saw it quickly reeled in to Pinkie, who grabbed it and jumped back into her upstairs room. “Pinkie Pieeeeaaaahhhh...” said Rainbow as the cloud finally bucked her off into Ponyville fountain. “Sorry,” called Pinkie Pie as Rainbow stink eyed her from her new soggy home. “I can't hear you over the fact I've got AJ's hat.” The next morning at Sweetapple Acres, Applejack slept soundly in her bed. So soundly, in fact, she didn't hear the pair of hooves tromping into her room. Bweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet! “Yeeeaaaaah!” AJ fell off her bed in a tangle of blankets and sheets. Standing up, she came face to faces with Rarity and Fluttershy sporting sweat shirts, and whistles. Rarity wore a baseball cap, while Fluttershy made do with a blue cloth cap. “Straighten that mane.” ordered Rarity. “Chin up, head straight, and keep those hoofs together.” Maybe AJ was still tired, as she started to comply with Rarity's demands. “Hey, what the heck is....” started Applejack, realizing what she was doing. “Did I politely give you permission to talk?” Rarity was now in AJ's face. “Huh?” “Your performance has been...” Fluttershy tried hard to put on her best tough girl face. “Not very good.” She then leaned in close to Applejack. “I actually thought you were doing great,” she whispered. “But the time for pampering is over,” said Rarity “We're being tough, is that okay?” whispered Fluttershy. “No more mollycoddling this time.” “I wouldn't have minded a bit more.” “Are you two kiddin’ me?” groaned Applejack. “Ain’t we done enough?” “Well of course,” said Rarity. “I mean, it’s only your first beauty contest, so your chances are may not be....” “Beg pardon?” responded Applejack flatly. “Uh, don’t worry Rarity,” said Fluttershy, patting Applejack on the back. “I’m sure they give out “Good Effort” awards.” “Sure,” said Rarity. “Wouldn’t it be nice for the judges to say: “Nice try, Applejack?” “That’s it,” yelled Applejack, cutting the two off. She glared at Fluttershy, who broke out in a sweat and then turned to Rarity who tried but could just barely could meet her eye to eye. “The both of you...,” she said. Fluttershy and Rarity looked at each other with increasing worry. “Can do your worst.” Applejack beamed a confident smile to the two, who dropped the tough act to give a sigh of great relief. ““Well do better than that,” said Rarity. “We’ll do our best,” said Fluttershy. She couldn't help but give a hug to Applejack. The rest of the week for AJ was like a montage in fast forward. “Ninety-six,” counted Rarity. “Ninety-seven, Ninety-eight....” Doing one-hoof push-ups was natural for Applejack. Wearing a girdle being tightened by Fluttershy with every push however, made them torturous and exhausting. “Ninety-Nine. One Hundred.” “Hoooooof,” sighed Applejack as the girdle finally loosened. “Lots more to do AJ,” said Rarity. “No pain no gain.” “Then I'm expecting a big return on my investment,” said Applejack. The next day, Fluttershy's crash course in dancing had an emphasis on “crash.” As her coach and dance partner, Flutterhsy taught AJ every waltz, trot, two-step, slide, fling, samba and salsa she knew. AJ's legs felt like rubber, which is where Rarity stepped in. At the spa, the liberal use of a power-sander was just enough to smooth out Applejack's hooves. At Fluttershy's cottage: “Hiiiii-yaa,” yelled Applejack. “That's it Applejack,” yelled Fluttershy. “Show 'em who’s boss.” “I'm the boss,” answered Applejack. “I'm the boss I'm the boss I'm the boss.” And with one last gentle swing, Applejack arranged the last flower in the vase. “Perfect,” said Fluttershy. The day before the pageant, Rarity and Fluttershy trotted alongside Applejack who, while wearing high-heels and carrying a stack of books on her head, was starting to outpace her coaches. “Keep going,” said Rarity. “You're a regal machine, a beautiful, well-groomed, polite regal machine.” “You're gonna eat lightening,” said Fluttershy. “And then politely ask for thunder for dessert.” Trotting though Ponyville Square in the late afternoon, the three reached to the top of the steps at Ponyville Village Hall. Reaching the top, AJ couldn't help but rear back in triumph. “Yo Rar-i-ty, I did it.” Sugarcube Corner was as dead silent as it was dark. The lone pony stood against many. They thought they could run, hide. But they we're doomed from the start. “Thirteen 'gainst one?” she said, lifting the brim of her hat on her pink puffy mane. She grimaced and chewed on a candy cane. “Ya bought too too few.” Fanning her frosting bag like a pistol, Pinkie fired around after around. In moments, all the cupcakes lay dead.... frosted. Pinkie blew on the end of her frosting bag before squeezing a generous helping for herself on her tongue. “Ah ha,” shouted Twilight. “Yipes,” screamed Pinkie as the lights suddenly turned on. “Oh ha ha- hi Twilight. Fancy meeting you at Sugarcube Corner....” “Pinkie... you work here.” “Oh.. um... Twilight, you won't believe it. A brutish band of baked baddies bushwacked the bakery. Good thing Sheriff Pinkie Pie was here to send them back to their maker.” Sheriff Pinkie rubbed her tummy and licked her chops. “T'wernt nothin' ma'am,” she added, tipping her hat. “Nice try,” said Twilight flatly as she lifted AJ hat off of Pinkie Pie. “Awwww. Oh well, it sure was fun while it lasted. Hey, how did you know I'd try on AJ's hat?” Pinkie suddenly gasped. “Do you have a Pinkie Sense too?” “Yeah,” said Twilight. “Only I call it 'common sense.'” Pinkie thought long and hard about the concept. “Hmmmmm....... nope, never heard of it.” Twilight signed. “Good bye, Pinkie.” Floating AJ's hat on her magic, Twilight joined Rarity and Fluttershy outside. “Sorry for the wait girls,” she said. “So how's Applejack doing?” “Wonderful,” said Rarity. “All that tough love really does work. Applejack is a shoe-in for the pageant now.” “She a real quick learner,” said Fluttershy with pride. “She picked up every dance step I taught her, I even broke out my old waltz steps.” “Uh, waltz?” asked Twilight. “I don't really see Applejack learning to waltz.” “Oh it was easy,” said Fluttershy. “All you have to do is say she can't do it and then-” “Wait, what?” interrupted Twilight. “Fluttershy, are you sure that's a good idea? Applejack can get really competitive. Especially when you say she can't do something.” “Oh well – I – I – uh,” stammered Fluttershy. “It's for her own good Twilight,” interjected Rarity. “She was abysmal at first, now she has a solid chance.” “But didn't she say she didn't want to do anything she wouldn't normally do?” asked Twilight. “Well.... sure,” admitted Rarity. “But she needs to be better than normal for the pageant.” “We're just,” said Fluttershy, with a hint of nerves. “Just reminding her why she's competing.” Twilight paused. “Come to think of it. Why is she competing?” The silence between Rarity and Fluttershy could fill Ghastly Gorge. “Well you see....” “It's kind of like...” “We were thinking...” “And Applejack was....” “Um....” “Er......” “Sure.” “Exactly.” Twilight crooked a very inquisitive eyebrow their way. Beads of sweat started to form on the both of them, but thankfully the town bell gave a resounding ring. “Oh dear,” Rarity said, uncomfortably louder then usual. “Just look at the time. We have only a few hours to get our champ ready, come Fluttershy.” “R-right,” said Fluttershy, following. “Please say you'll be there, Twilight?” Rarity and Fluttershy took off towards Sweetapple Acres, leaving her with a heap of questions. “Wouldn't miss it,” she called. “Tell Applejack good luck for me.” “Rarity,” said Fluttershy. “I think Twilight may have a point.” “About what?” asked Rarity with sarcasm. “How not to be a winner?” “But we put Applejack through a lot, I just hope it was worth it.” “Don't worry, it'll be worth it once we win.” “You mean, 'she'?” “Of... course... heh, 'she.'” Chapter 5Twilight and Spike thought they arrived early to Ponyville’s first beauty pageant, but they didn’t count on the town’s enthusiasm for contests. It was a full turn out, with not only the stadium seating filled to capacity, many were comfortable sitting right on the ground. Up toward the front, Twilight and Spike took their seats next to Rainbow and Pinkie amongst the many many ponies surrounding the now lavishly done up stage. “Hey Rainbow, Pinkie.” “Yo Twlight,” said Rainbow. “You missed the tailgate party.” “Party? This is only the first Miss Ponyville Pageant.” “Sure is,” said Pinkie. “That's why we wanna make sure it lasts. Popcorn?” Pinkie was wearing a snack vendor's tray around her neck. “Part-time job?” asked Twilight. “Nope,” said Pinkie. “Bought out the vendor. Anywho, peanuts? Pizza poppers? Bubble gum? Gumdrops? Sourballs? Soda? Licorice? Lollipops? Chips? Cracker Jacks? Jaw breakers? “Um, maybe later,” said Twilight. The lights illuminating the crowd went low as the curtain began to part. “Hey, it's starting,” shouted Rainbow. The crowd began to calm down as a the Mayor stepped up to the stage. “Fillies and Gentle-colts. Welcome to the first annual Miss Ponyville Pageant. Tonight, we will see which among our contestants will be crowned, with the duty and honor, of Miss Ponyville. Too all of our competitors, we wish them the very best of luck. And to the hundreds gathered here.... She took a deep breath. “Llllllet's get ready to pageaaaaaaaaaaaaant!” Even with all the clomping around her, Twilight found them drowned out by Rainbow whistling and Pinkie screaming. Backstage a dozen other ponies were tightening their dresses, putting on the last of their make up and checking their teeth as they stood in line. As the first pony was called to the stage to thunderous applause, Applejack, Rarity and Fluttershy were at the end of the line, making last minute preps. AJ's hair was done in a tight bun and her light blue one-piece dress had all the accoutrements typical of Rarity. She slipped into her high heels while Fluttershy touched up her eyeliner. “One last time, what are your legs made for?” asked Rarity, pacing around Applejack. “Dancing,” sounded-off Applejack. “What's your hair made for?” “Dazzling.” “What are you made for?” “Winning.” “Miss Applejack,” called a stagepony. “Your up.” “Hold on,” said Fluttershy. She straightened a stray hair in AJ's mane, smoothed out her dress and popped a breath mint in her mouth. “Okay,” she said. Applejack began trotting in place. “Thanks,” she said, biting into her mint. “And our final contestant,” called out the Mayor. “Hailing from the flat plains of Sweetapple Acres, give it up for Applejack.” Applejack proudly trotted out to meet the applause of the crowd and stood among the other contestants out on stage. Rainbow and Pinkie excitedly unfolded a pair of signs and raised them high. Rainbow's was colored orange and read: “AJ - 3:16.” Pinkie's was colored pink with Applejacks cutie mark surrounded with flames and read: “Born to Buck.” Applejack winked to her friends as a pony dressed as a referee came on stage. “Here are the rules,” she said, addressing the contestants. “Each pony will compete once for every round and be scored by the judges until there are only four left, after that they pick who'll be Miss Ponyville. Keep the cat-calls to a minimum and keep those hooves where I can see 'em. Okay, now touch hooves and come out strutten'.” In true sportsman fashion, the ponies all touched hooves. “Let's get it on,” shouted the ref. DING DING DING A fashionably done-up stage pony displayed a sign saying: “Round 1.” The first round was easy enough. A catwalk across the stage ending with a lavish pose. Simple, as it more showcased each contestant. Still, as Applejack posed for the crowd and judges she kept seeing Fluttershy and Rarity silently gesturing her to “smile more,” or “Smile way more then that.” DING Round 2 consisted of bird calls. Thanks to Fluttershy's coaching, AJ was able to call several sparrows, a few robins and a flock of geese. One pony was disqualified after she accidentally called a moose to the stage. But she wasn't too sad, seeing as she now had a ride home. DING By round 4, three ponies were already disqualified. AJ tore up the make shift dance floor with her moves, wearing a diamond-studded leisure suit and gold chains designed by Rarity. “Woo hoo,” cheered Rainbow. “I didn't know AJ liked disco.” “AJ?” asked Pinkie, “Where?” “Up there.” “That doesn't look like Applejack.” “Well it is.” “And she doesn't act like Applejack.” “It's her okay?” “Ooooo-k, if you say so...” “Ugh, whatever.” Twilight could only glance aside, hoping Rainbow and Pinkie wouldn't notice her worried face. DING Ditzy Doo held the “Round 9” sign until she flipped it right side up. Applejack stumbled exhaustively backstage to her coaches. Rarity already had her next outfit ready to go. “I thought you said (pant) only one (gasp) song and dance number...,” said Applejack. “Sure,” said Fluttershy. “One in classical, one in oldies, one in modern. You still have the freestyle left.” AJ couldn't help but wince a little. “You're doing great,” reassured Rarity. “Remember: step, turn, step, step, pivot, spin, step, pivot, turn.” “Step and.... wha?” “Five minutes ladies,” called a stagehand. “You heard them,” said Rarity. “Go go go.” In one swift movement she pulled AJ's ensemble off, spinning her into some nearby supplies. DING It was now the end of round 12. If Applejack looked worse for wear, you'd wouldn't be able to tell with all the makeup and her hair now done up in flowers. She gargled and spat water into a nearby bucket and let Fluttershy get back with the makeup touches. Rarity paced back in forth, shaking with nerves. “Okay,” she said. “Okay, we're in the finals but we can't relax. We have one last chance to make a good impression, so we have to be absolutely, positively perfect.” “Uh huh,” said Applejack to no one. “No room for the slightest error. Leave nothing to chance, and... Fluttershy,” Rarity yelled. She sighed, heavily, the eyeliner in her teeth. “What?” “You're not using enough eyeliner.” “Any more and she'll have a black eye.” “Stop being so frugal and give it here.” “I know what I'm doing,” Fluttershy was quite close to raising her voice. “And I know better,” Rarity tried to use her magic to grab the eye liner but Fluttershy had it in a vice grip in her jaws. “Give it here.” “No.” “Give....” “No.....” Bweeeeew Weeeeeeeeet! AJ's whistle brought the near-fight to a stop. “Ladies?” asked Applejack. “Could I get, maybe, five minutes alone please?” Begrudgingly both stepped out of the dressing room. “Nice, Fluttershy,” said Rarity. “I'm not the one being a..... big... silly.... bossy-boots,” said Fluttershy. The door closed before Rarity's response could be heard. Alone, Applejack sighed once again as she looked at herself in the mirror. The eyeliner made her twitch a little, the blush made her sneezy and the flowers in her hair were itchy. It was then suddenly when the door flew open again. “Look I said-” began Applejack. “Huh?” Three minutes later, Rarity and Fluttershy came barging back in. “Hello, Applejack,” sing-song'ed Fluttershy. “Ready to be crowned Miss-” said Rarity. The dressing room was empty. Rarity let her two cups of tea fall to the ground. Applejack?” said Rarity. “Where is she?” asked Fluttershy. “I don't know.” “Where did she go?” “I don't know.” Fluttershy gasped. “Oh no. What if she left? What if she left because we pushed her too hard? What if she's mad at us? What if she's really mad at us?” “D-don't be silly. Applejack wouldn't just leave. She's dependable... stalwart....and worked half to exhaustion... oh dear, we need to find her.” The two rushed out of the dressing room and scoured backstage, asking stageponies and two of the contestants. They then dashed to the third contestants dressing room. “They said this way,” said Rarity, running along side Fluttershy. “If she not here...” Fluttershy could only gulp. Both opened the dressing room door to the third contestant, Apollo. Only to see Applejack sitting next to her. “I'm just afraid that they wouldn't really like me,” said Apollo. “Why wouldn't they?” asked Applejack. “You were cuttin' a whole lotta rug out there.” “Well,” said Apollo. “I do love ballet. I call it the 'sweet science.'” “I could tell. You were having a blast out there.” “But now, oh what if I'm not good enough?” “We're you being yourself out there?” “Well.... yeah.” “Then you ain't got nothing to worry about. When you're being yourself, you're way better than good enough. My friend Rarity would say: 'You're fabulous.'” “Thanks Applejack. You think I've got a chance?” “Hey, it ain't over 'till it's over,” said AJ with a wink. “Good luck out there Apollo.” “Thanks, Applejack,” she said. “Sorry for barging in like that.” With a wink, Applejack left Apollo's dressing room, quickly noticing Rarity and Fluttershy. “Hey you two. I kinda had to step out for a sec. Hope ya’ll ain’t too worried.” Both of their eyes were big and pleading as they stared at Applejack. “Okayyyy,” she said. “Kinda gettin' weirded out here.” “I'm so sorry Applejack,” cried Rarity. “We're the worst friends ever,” joined in Fluttershy. “We've been pushing you so very hard.” “And-and, we kept making you do stuff you didn't like....” “Oh I am a big silly bossy boots.” “How could ever forgive us for-” Both Rarity and Fluttershy found themselves in a big double-hug courtesy of Applejack. “Ain't nothing to forgive,” she laughed. “‘Sides, I'm just as much to blame.” “But,” said Rarity. “We kept chiding you...” “It wasn't right,” said Fluttershy. “An' it’s just as much my fault for letting you,” said Applejack. “Every time I hear 'AJ can't do this or that' well then I've always gotta prove 'em wrong. No matter what. The blinders go on and suddenly I ain't seein' straight.” “But Applejack,” said Rarity. “If you knew that, why did you let us push you so hard?” “Well don't you both think I can win?” she asked with a grin. “If there's anyone who deserves to be Miss Ponyville,” said Fluttershy, “It's you.” “Absolutely,” said Rarity. “Then I reckon I got the best darn team any pony could ask for,” said Applejack. “Oh stop it Applejack,” said Rarity. “You'll make me tear up.” Before AJ could respond, they both got another crushing hug from Fluttershy. “(Sniff) I love you guys,” she cried. AJ and Rarity would respond, if they could breathe. Thankfully another stagepony passed by. “Gear up, ladies. Final round starts now.” Reluctantly, Fluttershy let them go. “Welp,” said Applejack, heading towards the stage. “This is it.” “Not quite,” said Rarity, stopping her. “Fluttershy, I'll need your help.” “Right, she said, with confidence. Taking Applejack to her dressing room they let down her mane and took out the flowers. They replaced her dress with a green scarf, and a brown vest. “And one last thing,” said Rarity. “It's not exactly your old hat but...” She took out a beige colored ten gallon cowboy hat, placing it on AJ's head. “Woo doggy,” she said. “Ain't that snazzy. Y'all sure about this?” Both proudly nodded. “Okay, one last thing.” Applejack grabbed a rag, spat into it and rubbed it on her face, removing the makeup. “Much much better.” Fluttershy gave a nervous grin while Rarity twitched her face to resemble something of a smile. On the stage, the crowd was thoroughly pumped. Applejack stood at attention along with the other contestants, including Apollo who stood beside her. AJ gave a brief wave to her friends in the audience. “And now,” said the Mayor, indicating to an envelope sitting on a table. “The moment you've all been waiting for. The winner and soon to be crowned, Miss Ponyville.....” Applejack found her hoof being gripped by Apollo, shaking with nerves. Backstage Rarity and Fluttershy held each other, eyes fixated on the show. Silence fell on the crowd. Twilight and Rainbow leaned in almost off their seats. “Is.........” said the Mayor, opening the envelope. All was quiet. Quiet. “Oh there's Applejack,” said Pinkie. “Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh,” went the audience. “Miss Apollo!” AJ folded her ears back hearing Apollo scream, which was just as loud as the audience. AJ and the other contestants gave her a congratulatory hug and pats on the back as she headed up to have a crown placed on her head. After shaking hooves with the other contestants, Applejack headed backstage. Her two-pony team tried to put on brave faces, but they looked more disappointed then anything. But before they could say anything... “Shucks I didn't think I'd get this far,” said Applejack. “Thanks.” Beaming with pride, the three walked off stage in unison. Back at Twilight's Tree: “Dear Princess Celestia,” started Rarity, talking to Spike with quill and parchment in hand. “There's nothing wrong with helping a friend, but sometimes you start to think you know what's better for them then they do. Even gong so far as to deliberately manipulate them while telling yourself it's for the best.” “But really,” added Fluttershy. “It helps nopony. Even if your trying to help, you should always respect the wishes of your friends. If you want to help, asking is enough, you don’t have to cover it up.” “I gotta say Applejack,” said Rainbow. “That was crazy intense, maybe I should try out next year and show you up.” “Oh really,” said Applejack. “Hey fashion team, RD here's thinking of trying out next year. Got any ideas?” Rarity and Fluttershy looked at each other with a pair of sly grins. “Oh do we,” said Rarity. “I could definitely see Rainbow in a Summer dress.” “Of course,” said Fluttershy. “We'd have to teach her the etiquette of a proper tea party.” “Summer dress?” asked Rainbow. “Tea parties? No thanks.” “Is it just me Fluttershy,” said Rarity. “Or would Rainbow look better as a blonde?” “Sure,” said Fluttershy. “Right after we touch up her wings with some pink bows and-” “Okay okay,” interrupted Rainbow. “Yeeeech. Never mind.” After a good laugh, Pinke bounced toward Applejack. “You were a dancing machine Applejack,” she said with a boatload of enthusiasm. “Tango, limbo, disco, I didn’t know you liked that stuff.” “Well... to be honest,” said Applejack, sheepishly. “We understand,” said Fluttershy. Rarity nodded. Applejack smiled. “Hey Spike?” “Way ahead of you,” said Spike with a fresh piece of parchment. “There’s nothing wrong with trying new things, in fact I encourage it,” said Applejack. “But if you try something and you don’t like it, don’t be afraid to say so. Being a good friend doesn’t just mean having a lot of similarities. It’s okay to have differences and not to feel obliged do stuff your not comfortable with. You should never be afraid to say no.” “Annnd done,” said Spike. Sending the two letters off to Canterlot. “I reckon y’all learned some real valuable lessons, ya done good pilgrim,” said Twilight. “Huh?” said pretty much everyone. “Shucks howdy,” she responded. This posse is lookin’ more nervous then a long tailed cat inna room full a rockin’ chairs. Buck up, partners.” “Twilight,” said Applejack. “Yes ma’am?” “Is that my hat?” “........ yes.” “Uh huh.” “I couldn’t help it,” Twilight smiled. “It just looks so..... dashing. Sorry.” “Heck, I knew none of y’all could resist,” smiled Applejack looking at Rainbow and Pinkie. With her magic, Twlight placed the hat back on AJ’s head. “Ah, glad to have you home,” she said. She then looked over toward Fluttershy and Rarity. “Any one else wanna take her for a spin?” “Really?” asked Fluttershy with excitement. “Can I go next?” asked Spike. “I appreciate the gesture Applejack, but” said Rarity, then starting to blush. “............ maybe just once.” The tree couldn’t help but be filled with laughter.
Chapter 1Rarity tapped her hoof as she stared with anticipation at the stage being built in Ponyville Square. The small rope separating her from the stage may have well been a sheer, see-through wall. She couldn’t help but marvel at how the town was going all out. Construction ponies set up the lights while roadie ponies worked on the sound system. The more posh unicorns hung up a banner which read: “First Annual Miss Ponyville.” Rarity bit her lip with excitement as they set up a table on stage with a small drop box. She didn’t even notice Applejack trotting up behind her. “Mornin’, Rarity,” she called. Rarity’s ears when straight and her eyes went wide. Looking at back at her friend, she played with her curls while smiling, looking at no pony in particular. “Oh, eh heh. Good morning, Applejack,” she said. “What brings you here today?” Applejack answered with a nudge of her head toward the apple-cart she pulled. “An’ I thought I was the early riser,” she laughed. “What brings you round these parts at this time o’ day?” Rarity pulled her curl so tight it bounced back and bopped her in the face. “Uh heh heh... well... it's called being fashionably....eh, early, Applejack.” AJ crooked an eyebrow. “....... Uh, early for what?” Before Rarity could fabricate an answer, a local colt removed the rope which separated her from stairs to the stage. Rarity rushed up in her most lady-like manner to drop a slip of paper into the entry box. “Thanks for your pre-entry,” said a nearby unicorn, fixing up the curtains. “Good luck.” Rarity beamed as she headed off the stage to a grinning Applejack. “First in line for a beauty show... color me surprised.” Rarity threw her head back, looking away from the Earth pony. “Humph. Go ahead and yuk it up, Applejack,” she replied. “If you must know, this isn't just another vanity project.” AJ responded with a deadpan grimace. “Right.” “Not,” Rarity gave a pause, finally meeting her eyes. “Entirely. I'd be remiss if I didn't at least try. If I compete in the first Miss Ponyville Pageant, it'll be a huge boon to my boutique. But,” she added, smiling towards AJ's hat, “I don't need to tell you that.” “Why not?” asked Applejack. “This,” crooned Rarity, as she pulled an entry slip from on top of AJ's hat with her magic. “Ha ha! Such a coincidence you being here so early. How very business savvy of you.” “What the....?” sputtered Applejack, watching smirking Rarity wave the entry slip in her face. “That ain’t mine,” she yelled. “Y’all know I’m just here to open shop.” “Too late, my dear,” said Rarity, her smile now a full grin. “Say, how about I treat you to breakfast? Say... a fillet of crow.” “Now, you listen here.” started Applejack. “I- “Oh, those poor crows,” said a voice from above. Applejack and Rarity looked up to see Fluttershy, who quickly went from looking wide-eyed and trembling to quickly looking away and rubbing her hooves. “Fluttershy?” said Rarity. The interruption gave her the chance to read the slip. “You’re entering?” Gingerly bracing her legs for a soft landing, Fluttershy kept her eyes from meeting her friends'. “Oh.. um... sort of... not really. Um... you can go back to fighting if you want.” “We're not fighting. That's just good-natured ribbing, sweetie,” assured Rarity. “Sure is,” smiled Applejack, nudging the unicorn. “You prissy early bird.” “Fair enough,” said Rarity, conceding to AJ before returning her attention to Fluttershy. “I thought you didn't like the attention, dear.” “Well,” cooed Fluttershy, regaining her composure. “Being Miss. Ponyville means you get to pick a big town project. And... well... I'd like to see more ponies help taking care of the woodland creatures. I think that would be wonderful.” “That's so sweet,” said Rarity. “Well now, don't let us stop you.” “Oh... okay.” Taking the slip in her mouth, Fluttershy headed to the stage. Several moments passed.... Fluttershy hadn’t moved... “What's wrong, sugarcube?” asked Applejack. “Uh... well..... ” “Yes?” pried Rarity. “I just remembered I don't like the attention,” squeaked Fluttershy. Rarity fought the urge to urge to smack her forehead. Applejack put one leg around the pegasus and gave her a gentle smirk. “Hey now. No need for nerves,” she said. “Tell you what. How 'bout I enter with ya?” A quick stern glance from AJ stifled the sudden giggle from Rarity. “You'd do that for me?” asked Fluttershy, her eyes going wide. “Sure as shootin'. If ol' Applejack can do it, then it's no sweat for you.” “Sure,” smiled Fluttershy, feeling coming back to her legs. “No sweat.” Fluttershy looked and felt much better as she dropped in her slip after Applejack, who quickly scribbled her name on a fresh slip right on stage. Both came back down and Rarity gave Fluttershy a big hug. “Ohhh, good luck Fluttershy,” she said. “You too, Rarity.” Whatever giddiness the two were holding down couldn't be contained. Both Rarity and Fluttershy jumped around giggled like like they already had won, leaving Applejack feeling a little out-of-place before she got a crushing hug from Fluttershy. “Thank you thank you thank you, Applejack,” she said. “Ooof! Heh, no problem. Anything for a friend.” “Pleeeeeese say you'll stop by Sugarcube Corner this afternoon, I owe you for today.” “You got it. If''in you'll give me my legs back first.” “Oh... sure.” That afternoon at Sugarcube Corner, Applejack was into her second “Thank You” milkshake with the rest of the gals, while Fluttershy and Rarity went back and forth, recalling their eventful morning. “After the drawing, the judges will send a special messenger to deliver the acceptance letters by this evening, how exciting,” tittered Rarity. “I don't know if I should be excited or nervous, but I feel great,” whispered Fluttershy. “And I have Applejack to thank.” “Well I for one think it's very commendable of you Applejack,” said Twilight with a smile. “I just wish some ponies could see that.” At the end of the table, Twilight glared at Rainbow Dash, who hid her face with one hoof and banged the table with the other. Twilight tried to reassure herself that it was a step up from earlier with Rainbow guffawing for five minutes straight, but not by much. “AJ in a beauty contest... I... I can't breathe,” snickered Rainbow. “This is too great.” It also didn't help that Pinkie Pie, who was supposed to be serving them, was draped over Rainbow laughing along with her. “Pinkie,” protested Twilight. “I get Rainbow, but you? “I'm laughing cause she's laughing,” snorted Pinkie, as she and Dash finally calmed down to more tolerable giggles. “Forget it, Twi,” said Applejack, giving a tight smile. “'Sides, this work horse ain't interested in that whole song and dance.” “Too bad,” said Rarity. “Because singing and dancing are part of the contest.” “And flower arranging, gymnastics, bird calling, kitty snuggling all sorts of things,” daydreamed Fluttershy, laying her chin on her hooves. “With several types of costume contests, how grand,” added Rarity. Rather than make a face, Applejack slurped the last of her milkshake. “Well let me just say good luck to all of you,” said Twilight. “Okay... okay..” gasped Rainbow. “For real, good luck everypony. Especially you..... ha ha... Applejack. Ahhhh ha ha ha haaaa.” “Hee hee sorry, Applejack,” said Pinkie Pie between snickers. “Can't help it... hee hee.. but good luck. Ahhh ha ha ha.” A ring from the bell on the door to Sugarcube diverted the attention from Pinkie and Dash to a fancy mail unicorn holding a small satchel and taking out a silver envelope with his magic. “Excuse me,” began the messenger. “Oh my stars and garters it's already here,” gasped Rarity, looking away. “How do I look? Is my mane alright? Oh do I have any chocolate on my face?” Fluttershy gulped hard. Seeing the messenger shrank her two sizes down into her chair. “Now hold on an apple buckin' minute,” yelled Applejack, banging the table to grab their attention. “Don't tell me after all that fussin' 'bout this thing, you two are gettin' cold feet?” “You're... you're right Applejack,” said Rarity smoothing out her mane. “Come on, Fluttershy.” She took a deep breath, “Right.” As they approached the messenger they both saw the single letter floating in the air. Rarity suddenly put a hoof in front of Fluttershy to stop her. “Rarity, what are you-” “Could you give us a moment, please?” said Rarity in her most polite voice to the messenger. The posh mail pony shrugged as the envelope continued to float about. “Fluttershy,” Rarity began. “I want to promise something to you.” “What? Why?” “It's only one envelope sweetie, that means only one of us was chosen to compete.” “Oh... I see.” “And I just want to let you know that... if you win... I won't be jealous. In fact, I'll do everything I can to help you win. That is my promise.” “Really?” smiled Fluttershy. “Well then I promise you the same thing. I'll do anything I can to help if they choose you.” “Then it's settled,” said Rarity. “No jealously.” “And one hundred percent support,” said Fluttershy. “Deal.” “Deal.” “Deal,” butted in the messenger. “Now do you mind, I was told I'd find a contestant here and I have a schedule to keep...” “Of course,” said Rarity, batting her eyes. “How rude of me. Yes, the both of us entered the Miss Ponyville Pageant.” “Well okay then,” said the messenger looking at the envelope. “Let's see here.” Both eager contestants drew in their breaths and held hooves, giving the other a “Good luck” nod. “Okay... now... which one of you,” said the messenger, straining his eyes at the envelope. “... is Apple.... Jack?”
Chapter 2“It ain't possible,” blurted Applejack again, reading through her acceptance letter for the tenth time. “It just. Ain't. Possible.” “Er, ah, congratulations?” said Twilight, with a nervous smile. “Er... sorry?” “Congratu-sorry?” asked Pinkie Pie. “I'm the one who should be sorry,” said Applejack, looking at Fluttershy. “I made a big ol' mess of things. Can you ever forgive me, Fluttershy?” “It's okay, Applejack,” smiled Fluttershy, giving AJ a loving nudge. “I wasn't really expecting to win anyway.” “But what about your little critters?” “Oh they'll be fine. Nothing wrong with me spending more time with the animals.” “I know you're just trying to make me feel better,” sighed Applejack. “But I'm still really sorry. Same goes for you Rarity, I know how important this pageant was for- …. uhhhh... Rarity?” Rarity hadn't budged the whole time. It had been minutes since the messenger left and the unicorn was frozen with the kind of expression she'd give if someone told her potato sacks were the new chic. Rainbow Dash floated above Rarity, waving and clomping her hooves in front of her face. “Yo, Rarity? Yoo hoo. Equestria to Rarity?” Applejack hung her head even lower. “Um,” said Fluttershy, trying hard to find the words. “Rarity sure is ... eh.... surprised.” “I’ve got this,” proclaimed Rainbow. The others watched as a multicolored blur zipped to the kitchen, breaking a tray of ice cubes into an empty pitcher and filling it with water. Zipping back, she proudly dumped the cold mixture right on Rarity, soaking her through. She didn't even blink. “Okay,” muttered Rainbow. “Wow.” “Great,” said Twilight. “Now Rarity's catatonic and wet. I-.” Twilight tried to catch herself, but it was too late as she saw Applejack head towards the door. “Uh, I-I mean, she sure is surprised, uh right, Fluttershy?” “Forget it gals,” said Applejack, sounding more determined. “I know what I gotta do.” “What's that?” asked Twilight. “Simple, I'm telling who's ever in charge they made a mistake.” “But Applejack,” began Fluttershy. “My mind's made up, Fluttershy. I ain't one for beauty contests,” With that, Applejack exited Sugarcube Corner. The awkwardness and silence hung in the air. Fluttershy and Twilight could only look at each other and shurg. Pinkie was about to say something, stopped, thought about it, tried to say something again, then stopped and thunk about it again. Rainbow, undeterred, scowled in Rarity’s face. “Jeez, snap about it already,” she demanded. “Okay that does it.” Rainbow lifted up one of the unicorn’s ears and leaned in close. Rainbow cleared her throat, took in a deep breath and... “You can't quit!” yelled Rarity. Twilight nearly stumbled over Fluttershy who ducked right under her. With a yelp, Rainbow Dash fell on her back, clutching her chest and breathing heavily, her eye twitching. Pinkie just smiled. “Welcome back Rarity,” she said. “Fluttershy,” said Rarity, frantically reaching for the pegasus. “We have to stop her.” . “But-” and a quick “mew” was all Fluttershy could muster as Rarity grabbed her and ran out the door. “Well,” remarked Twilight. “Today was certainly.... eventful.” “Seriously....” said Rainbow, picking herself up. “Applejack enters a beauty contest?” “And they pick her?” added Pinkie. “I know hilarious,” said Twlight, rolling her eyes. “Give it a rest already.” Pinkie and Rainbow looked at Twilight like she grew a second horn then looked back towards each other. “We’ve totally gotta get some good seats,” said Rainbow, bouncing and them hovering in the air. “Heck yeah!” shouted Pinkie with an equally high hop impressive for a non-pegasus. “Let’s go before somepony else grabs ‘em!” “Huh?” blurted Twilight, seeing the two leave the shop. “What happened to ‘AJ in a beauty contest, har har har?’” “That airship already sailed, Twi, get with the times,” said Rainbow on her way out. “What do you wanna do to cheer on Applejack?” “Ooooo I know I know,” said Pinkie as she and Rainbow left Sugarcube Corner. “How about apple-shaped balloons? Or some really awesome-looking signs? Oooo! Or since we’re cheering her on, let’s make a cheer! ‘Bric-a-bracka, fire-cracka, sis-boom-bah! Applejack! Applejack! Rah rah rah!’” Twilight was left alone, still trying to process what just transpired. Outside, Applejack found herself cut off by a soaking wet Rarity with Fluttershy in tow. “Applejack, stop,” ordered Rarity. “Won't you think this over?” “Uh, hi,” squeaked Fluttershy. “What the?” said Applejack, taken aback. “Look, nothin' doin'. Okay?” “But it's such a rare opportunity. Pleeeease Applejack,” pouted Rarity. “Look, all the primmin' and properin' may be fun for you, but not this gal, and nothin' you say is gonna change my mind.” As Applejack walked past, Rarity bit her lip tightly. Before she could protest again, Fluttershy halted her. “It's okay, Rarity,” she said, smiling. “If Applejack wants to quit, then we should respect her decision.” Applejack stopped right in her tracks. “What did I hear about quittin'?” she asked flatly. “Oh! Um... I was just saying that-,” Fluttershy could only stammer as Applejack stomped towards her. “Now look here,” she said. “I. Ain't. Quitten'. I'm gracefully bowin' out. Okay?” “Okay..” said Fluttershy. “I'm not gonna waste my time purdyin' up for some contest, okay?” “....okay....” “Okay.... glad to have that settled, then.” Applejack began to trot off, but found Rarity keeping pace alongside her. “Good call, Applejack,” she said, winking behind her towards blankly staring Fluttershy. “Well thank you, Rarity.” “Your decision is both practical and very level-headed.” “I'd like to think so.” “I mean, not everypony can compete in such a pageant.” “Yeah, sure.” “And it's very mature to know your limits.” “Know my...? Wait a sec...” “I mean the very idea of you becoming Miss Ponyville is quite honestly... well....” “Is what?” asked Applejack, stomping her hoof. “There ain't nothin' to it. Just put on a dress an' smile. It's hardly plowin' a field or apple-buckin'.” “Well of course... if that's what you think.” Applejack stopped and gave Rarity a good long stare. “Y'all thinkin' I can't do it.” “Oh Applejack,” cooed Rarity. “It doesn't matter what we think.” “Sure doesn't, ha ha heh....” said Fluttershy, frantically forching herself between the two, beads of sweat on her face. “In fact you should just start ignoring us right now.” “But Fluttershy,” said Rarity with a thick layer of smarm. “I was just complimenting Applejack for knowing when to cut her losses.” “Oh that tears it,” growled Applejack. “I could win this beauty contest hogtied and blindfolded if I wanted.” “Ohhhh, of course you could, Applejack....” said Rarity, rolling her eyes. Fluttershy was practically gnawing on her hooves. “Darn tootin',” yelled Applejack. “See if I don't!” “You will?” asked both Rarity and Fluttershy suddenly. “But I... I can't just...” began Applejack trying to catch herself. But before she could finish, she found herself looking into the hopeful, pleading, wide eyes of a white unicorn. “.....can't just... make a decision like this without hashin' it over with the Apple family y'know.” “Yes, of course,” said Rarity. “You go and... hash.” “Okay then,” said Applejack, heading home. As Applejack turned and walked away, Fluttershy looked at Rarity, then toward Applejack, then toward anyplace sutible for cowering. She finally settled on wrapping her tail around herself like a security blanket and chewed at her lower lip. “I didn’t mean to... I understood why she didn’t... a-all I meant was... “ she studdred when Applejack was out of earshot. “Oh my, what did you do, Rarity? Oh me, what did I do? Oh my goodness, what have we done?” “Really Fluttershy,” smiled Rarity. “Don't you think Applejack could win?” “You.... you really think so?” “Of course. Applejack would make a fantastic Miss Ponyville. She has looks, personality and has a strong character, all the traits needed to win. But I knew she wouldn't go for it so I had to... needle her a bit.” “But.. it doesn't feel right.” “Don't worry, we'll be helping her the whole time.” “Really?” Fluttershy began to smile again. “Really. For now we have to wait. Um, Fluttershy sweetie?” “Yes.” “Why am I sopping wet?” “Ummmmmm...”
Chapter 3Applejack wasn't prone to groaning, but being sandwiched between Rarity and Fluttershy, who bounced around like two fillies in a candy shop with her in tow, was as good a time as any. “Soooo it went well?” said Twilight. Applejack pried herself loose from the impromptu group hug. “If you'd call it that. Applebloom was a titter, all: 'What a great idea! You're soooo pretty Applejack!' Ehcccch. Then Granny Smith chimes in sayin' that she used to win beauty contests left and right and had a whole stable of gentlecolt callers....” “Well that's kinda sweet,” smiles Twilight. “And kinda gross,” added Rainbow Dash, under her breath. “I’m looking to Big Macintosh for some support. What do I get?” said Applejack. “Yup?” asked Twilight. “'Yup,” said Applejack. “That's great,” said Pinkie, bouncing between Twilight and Rainbow. “They think you can do it.” “An' how do you expect me to do it?” said Applejack, getting more flustered. “Ah' don't know nothin' 'bout prettifying.” It was then she noticed Rarity and Fluttershy approaching her from both sides. “What now?” Applejack asked. “Oh Applejack, dear sweet Applejack,” said Rarity, putting a hoof around her. “You have nothing to fear.” “I don't?” “Rarity and I made a promise that whoever was chosen for the pageant, we'd do anything and everything to help,” whispered Fluttershy. “This includes you,” said Rarity. “So no need to fret, we'll whip you into grade A pageant material.” “Well now, hold on,” said Applejack, moving away from the two. “I'm not one for puttin' on airs. If I'm doing this, I'm doing it honestly. Got it?” Fluttershy and Rarity exchanged the briefest of glances before they smiled at Applejack, Rarity’s smile being the more tighter of the two. “Oh ho ho, of course,” she said. “We won't make you do anything you don't want,” cooed Fluttershy. “We just want to make sure the judges see the... best parts of you,” added Rarity. “The best parts?” Applejack gave it a seconds thought. “Alright, when do we start?” AJ's remark made Rarity give an excited bounce. “Excellent,” she said. “We can start right now.” “Right now?” asked Fluttershy. “Right now. We have only the rest of the week until the pageant so we need to get cracking. We can start with that....” Applejack couldn't figure out why Rarity was pointing towards her head. Then it dawned on her... “My hat? Uh uh, no way no how.” “Well,” whispered Fluttershy, glancing towards Rarity. Her voice couldn’t help but shake as her volume decended into tiny squeeks “That's okay.... um.... you don't have to... if you... don't want to..... win....” They everypony else strained to hear Fluttershy, Applejack made out enough. She responded by shooting a stink eye to no one in particular. “Oh............ alright,” she relented. Fluttershy gave a nervous smile to Rarity who was hoof-pumping outside of AJ's sight. “Y-you.... you could leave it back at the farm,” reassured Fluttershy. “Heck no,” said Applejack. “Last time I did, Applebloom used it when she lost her slop bucket. I think I'd better leave it with you gals.” “Ooo ooo,” said Pinkie, bouncing toward Applejack. “You can leave it with-” “Me!” interrupted Rainbow. AJ found her head bare as Rainbow swooped down and carried her hat skywards. “Hey,” shouted Pinkie. “Rainbow,” yelled Twilight. “Wha?” said Rainbow, the hat in her mouth. “She asthed.” “It's okay,” said Applejack. “You listen here Rainbow, you take good care of her y'hear?” “Duh, easy peasy jeez-lawezzey,” said Rainbow as she spun the hat around her hove as she headed off. “And don't you go wearin' it either,” called Applejack. Again, Applejack found herself surrounded by her new two-pony fashion team. “All right,” said Rarity. “Let's get to work.” “Hooray,” quietly cheered Fluttershy. “Hooray....” groaned Applejack. For Applejack, the last two days felt like a montage. She first found herself in front of a mirror at Rarity's boutique. Excitedly, the unicorn had a whole swath of haircare products ready. “Ready to get let that mane down?” asked Rarity. “Let's just get this over with,” replied Applejack. “Oh tut tut, Applejack. We just need to smooth out those knots and cut out those nasty split-ends.” Taking out a full-bodied brush with her magic, Rarity began to comb. Or tried to comb.... “Grrrrf. I must ask... rrrrrf. How long..... oof, since you last combed your mane? “Let's see. How long ago was the last Grand Galloping Gala?” “Almost a..... rrrraagh, a year.” “Well then, longer then that, I think.” “You think? Applejaaaeeee.....” Rarity trailed off as she found her brush devoid of bristles. “What? Done already?” “Yes. Done,” said Rarity flatly, tossing the now bare bush aside. “Fluttershy's waiting outside.” Outside, AJ stood perplexed as Fluttershy rolled out a long wide stretch of paper with hoof marks dotting across it. “Hate to tell you hon,” said Applejack. “But someone done walked all over your paper.” “Its a dance sheet,” answered Fluttershy. “It'll teach you all the popular moves, and help you practice how to be light on your feet. This is the Trottingham Two-Step.” “I don't think I need a piece a paper to teach me dancin',” laughed Applejack. “But it's really useful, just one try?” “Fine.” “Okay, I'll go first to show you.” Fluttershy effortlessly twinkled her hooves across the parchment. She turned, spun and neatly landed on the other side with nary a wrinkle on the sheet. “See? Easy. Now it's your turn.” “Kay. Here goes...” BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM Despite Fluttershy taking cover in a nearby bush, Applejack looked mighty proud of herself. “That wasn't hard at all,” she stated. Until AJ looked at the tattered, flaming remains of the dance sheet. “Uh. Heh heh, whoops.” “It's okay,” said Fluttershy, gingerly getting back up. “That was quite...... graceful?” AJ crooked an eyebrow her way. “Maybe,” Fluttershy continued. “Just for fun we'll try it a few more times.” The spa went just as swimmingly for Applejack, first getting a manicure. “This should smooth out those tough ol' hooves,” said Rarity. On AJ's hooves, both her and Rarity found out that, yes, even a nail file can catch fire with enough speed and friction. AJ could also count herself the first in the spa's history to injure several massage ponies trying to loosen up her back. Fluttershy almost went horse with the apologies. Back at the boutique, Rarity attempted to get one thing accomplished for Applejack. Sitting at a table, Applejack watched as Rarity cracked a raw egg into a glass. Her grimace increased with every egg, from two, to four and finally to eight raw eggs swimming in a glass. “Blech,” said Applejack, until she started scratching her chin. “Oh, I get it.” Rarity turned away in order to read more of her book,”The Perfect Facial.” GULP GLUP GULP Her eye twitching, Rarity slowly turned to see an empty glass and Applejack wiping her mouth. “Ok, what else ya got?” Rarity didn't reply. She’d already passed out.
Chapter 4“That bad, huh?” asked Twilight. “I thought it would be fun,” said Rarity. “But Applejack is so... rrrrf... impossible.” “Rarity,” silently protested Fluttershy. “She's doing her best.” “I know I know. But she has the manners of a goat and the grace of a sick buffalo.” “Well that's rather harsh....” “Harsh, but true.” “I hardly think it's true...” “Well a heh, um,” interrupted Twilight. “Maybe you’re going at it the wrong way?” “But I'm an expert at make overs,” said Rarity. “I can turn around any kind pony.” “Applejack isn't any kind of pony,” said Twilight. “Think about it, what do you know about her?” “Well,” said Fluttershy. “She's honest, kind, reliable....” “Good head for business and a pro at farming...” added Rarity. “Strong, tough, a little bit...... aggressive....” “Chews with her mouth open.” Rarity is responded to with glares. “Oh, I'm not the only one here who notices,” she shot back. “She's a work horse,” stated Twilight. “Of course all this pampering wouldn't work.” “So what you're saying is...” began Fluttershy. “We have to stop coddling her, and start getting tougher,” finished Rarity. “Oh. But I'm so good at coddling....” “Twilight is correct Fluttershy. For her sake, it’s the only way to turn that country gal into a Southern Belle.” “But she said she wants to win honestly. What if she get's upset? What if she gets angry?” “Do you want her to win or don't you?” “I do... but-” “Then the kid gloves have to come off, I'm afraid.” “Can't we leave.... one kid glove on?” “Well good luck,” smiled Twilight. “I hope it works ouuuuuuuuuuu...” All three ducked in time to avoid a low-flying cloud. “Yeeeeee-haawwwww,” yelled Rainbow Dash, wearing Applejack's hat and riding on the cloud. “Get along little cloudie!” The cloud dived and rolled through the sky, trying to buck off Rainbow. Flying so close to the rooftops, she didn't see Pinkie on top of Sugarcube Corner with a fishing pole. “Wooo hoooo, yippie-ki-yo-ki-hey,” Rainbow felt AJ's hat snatched off her head and saw it quickly reeled in to Pinkie, who grabbed it and jumped back into her upstairs room. “Pinkie Pieeeeaaaahhhh...” said Rainbow as the cloud finally bucked her off into Ponyville fountain. “Sorry,” called Pinkie Pie as Rainbow stink eyed her from her new soggy home. “I can't hear you over the fact I've got AJ's hat.” The next morning at Sweetapple Acres, Applejack slept soundly in her bed. So soundly, in fact, she didn't hear the pair of hooves tromping into her room. Bweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet! “Yeeeaaaaah!” AJ fell off her bed in a tangle of blankets and sheets. Standing up, she came face to faces with Rarity and Fluttershy sporting sweat shirts, and whistles. Rarity wore a baseball cap, while Fluttershy made do with a blue cloth cap. “Straighten that mane.” ordered Rarity. “Chin up, head straight, and keep those hoofs together.” Maybe AJ was still tired, as she started to comply with Rarity's demands. “Hey, what the heck is....” started Applejack, realizing what she was doing. “Did I politely give you permission to talk?” Rarity was now in AJ's face. “Huh?” “Your performance has been...” Fluttershy tried hard to put on her best tough girl face. “Not very good.” She then leaned in close to Applejack. “I actually thought you were doing great,” she whispered. “But the time for pampering is over,” said Rarity “We're being tough, is that okay?” whispered Fluttershy. “No more mollycoddling this time.” “I wouldn't have minded a bit more.” “Are you two kiddin’ me?” groaned Applejack. “Ain’t we done enough?” “Well of course,” said Rarity. “I mean, it’s only your first beauty contest, so your chances are may not be....” “Beg pardon?” responded Applejack flatly. “Uh, don’t worry Rarity,” said Fluttershy, patting Applejack on the back. “I’m sure they give out “Good Effort” awards.” “Sure,” said Rarity. “Wouldn’t it be nice for the judges to say: “Nice try, Applejack?” “That’s it,” yelled Applejack, cutting the two off. She glared at Fluttershy, who broke out in a sweat and then turned to Rarity who tried but could just barely could meet her eye to eye. “The both of you...,” she said. Fluttershy and Rarity looked at each other with increasing worry. “Can do your worst.” Applejack beamed a confident smile to the two, who dropped the tough act to give a sigh of great relief. ““Well do better than that,” said Rarity. “We’ll do our best,” said Fluttershy. She couldn't help but give a hug to Applejack. The rest of the week for AJ was like a montage in fast forward. “Ninety-six,” counted Rarity. “Ninety-seven, Ninety-eight....” Doing one-hoof push-ups was natural for Applejack. Wearing a girdle being tightened by Fluttershy with every push however, made them torturous and exhausting. “Ninety-Nine. One Hundred.” “Hoooooof,” sighed Applejack as the girdle finally loosened. “Lots more to do AJ,” said Rarity. “No pain no gain.” “Then I'm expecting a big return on my investment,” said Applejack. The next day, Fluttershy's crash course in dancing had an emphasis on “crash.” As her coach and dance partner, Flutterhsy taught AJ every waltz, trot, two-step, slide, fling, samba and salsa she knew. AJ's legs felt like rubber, which is where Rarity stepped in. At the spa, the liberal use of a power-sander was just enough to smooth out Applejack's hooves. At Fluttershy's cottage: “Hiiiii-yaa,” yelled Applejack. “That's it Applejack,” yelled Fluttershy. “Show 'em who’s boss.” “I'm the boss,” answered Applejack. “I'm the boss I'm the boss I'm the boss.” And with one last gentle swing, Applejack arranged the last flower in the vase. “Perfect,” said Fluttershy. The day before the pageant, Rarity and Fluttershy trotted alongside Applejack who, while wearing high-heels and carrying a stack of books on her head, was starting to outpace her coaches. “Keep going,” said Rarity. “You're a regal machine, a beautiful, well-groomed, polite regal machine.” “You're gonna eat lightening,” said Fluttershy. “And then politely ask for thunder for dessert.” Trotting though Ponyville Square in the late afternoon, the three reached to the top of the steps at Ponyville Village Hall. Reaching the top, AJ couldn't help but rear back in triumph. “Yo Rar-i-ty, I did it.” Sugarcube Corner was as dead silent as it was dark. The lone pony stood against many. They thought they could run, hide. But they we're doomed from the start. “Thirteen 'gainst one?” she said, lifting the brim of her hat on her pink puffy mane. She grimaced and chewed on a candy cane. “Ya bought too too few.” Fanning her frosting bag like a pistol, Pinkie fired around after around. In moments, all the cupcakes lay dead.... frosted. Pinkie blew on the end of her frosting bag before squeezing a generous helping for herself on her tongue. “Ah ha,” shouted Twilight. “Yipes,” screamed Pinkie as the lights suddenly turned on. “Oh ha ha- hi Twilight. Fancy meeting you at Sugarcube Corner....” “Pinkie... you work here.” “Oh.. um... Twilight, you won't believe it. A brutish band of baked baddies bushwacked the bakery. Good thing Sheriff Pinkie Pie was here to send them back to their maker.” Sheriff Pinkie rubbed her tummy and licked her chops. “T'wernt nothin' ma'am,” she added, tipping her hat. “Nice try,” said Twilight flatly as she lifted AJ hat off of Pinkie Pie. “Awwww. Oh well, it sure was fun while it lasted. Hey, how did you know I'd try on AJ's hat?” Pinkie suddenly gasped. “Do you have a Pinkie Sense too?” “Yeah,” said Twilight. “Only I call it 'common sense.'” Pinkie thought long and hard about the concept. “Hmmmmm....... nope, never heard of it.” Twilight signed. “Good bye, Pinkie.” Floating AJ's hat on her magic, Twilight joined Rarity and Fluttershy outside. “Sorry for the wait girls,” she said. “So how's Applejack doing?” “Wonderful,” said Rarity. “All that tough love really does work. Applejack is a shoe-in for the pageant now.” “She a real quick learner,” said Fluttershy with pride. “She picked up every dance step I taught her, I even broke out my old waltz steps.” “Uh, waltz?” asked Twilight. “I don't really see Applejack learning to waltz.” “Oh it was easy,” said Fluttershy. “All you have to do is say she can't do it and then-” “Wait, what?” interrupted Twilight. “Fluttershy, are you sure that's a good idea? Applejack can get really competitive. Especially when you say she can't do something.” “Oh well – I – I – uh,” stammered Fluttershy. “It's for her own good Twilight,” interjected Rarity. “She was abysmal at first, now she has a solid chance.” “But didn't she say she didn't want to do anything she wouldn't normally do?” asked Twilight. “Well.... sure,” admitted Rarity. “But she needs to be better than normal for the pageant.” “We're just,” said Fluttershy, with a hint of nerves. “Just reminding her why she's competing.” Twilight paused. “Come to think of it. Why is she competing?” The silence between Rarity and Fluttershy could fill Ghastly Gorge. “Well you see....” “It's kind of like...” “We were thinking...” “And Applejack was....” “Um....” “Er......” “Sure.” “Exactly.” Twilight crooked a very inquisitive eyebrow their way. Beads of sweat started to form on the both of them, but thankfully the town bell gave a resounding ring. “Oh dear,” Rarity said, uncomfortably louder then usual. “Just look at the time. We have only a few hours to get our champ ready, come Fluttershy.” “R-right,” said Fluttershy, following. “Please say you'll be there, Twilight?” Rarity and Fluttershy took off towards Sweetapple Acres, leaving her with a heap of questions. “Wouldn't miss it,” she called. “Tell Applejack good luck for me.” “Rarity,” said Fluttershy. “I think Twilight may have a point.” “About what?” asked Rarity with sarcasm. “How not to be a winner?” “But we put Applejack through a lot, I just hope it was worth it.” “Don't worry, it'll be worth it once we win.” “You mean, 'she'?” “Of... course... heh, 'she.'”
Chapter 5Twilight and Spike thought they arrived early to Ponyville’s first beauty pageant, but they didn’t count on the town’s enthusiasm for contests. It was a full turn out, with not only the stadium seating filled to capacity, many were comfortable sitting right on the ground. Up toward the front, Twilight and Spike took their seats next to Rainbow and Pinkie amongst the many many ponies surrounding the now lavishly done up stage. “Hey Rainbow, Pinkie.” “Yo Twlight,” said Rainbow. “You missed the tailgate party.” “Party? This is only the first Miss Ponyville Pageant.” “Sure is,” said Pinkie. “That's why we wanna make sure it lasts. Popcorn?” Pinkie was wearing a snack vendor's tray around her neck. “Part-time job?” asked Twilight. “Nope,” said Pinkie. “Bought out the vendor. Anywho, peanuts? Pizza poppers? Bubble gum? Gumdrops? Sourballs? Soda? Licorice? Lollipops? Chips? Cracker Jacks? Jaw breakers? “Um, maybe later,” said Twilight. The lights illuminating the crowd went low as the curtain began to part. “Hey, it's starting,” shouted Rainbow. The crowd began to calm down as a the Mayor stepped up to the stage. “Fillies and Gentle-colts. Welcome to the first annual Miss Ponyville Pageant. Tonight, we will see which among our contestants will be crowned, with the duty and honor, of Miss Ponyville. Too all of our competitors, we wish them the very best of luck. And to the hundreds gathered here.... She took a deep breath. “Llllllet's get ready to pageaaaaaaaaaaaaant!” Even with all the clomping around her, Twilight found them drowned out by Rainbow whistling and Pinkie screaming. Backstage a dozen other ponies were tightening their dresses, putting on the last of their make up and checking their teeth as they stood in line. As the first pony was called to the stage to thunderous applause, Applejack, Rarity and Fluttershy were at the end of the line, making last minute preps. AJ's hair was done in a tight bun and her light blue one-piece dress had all the accoutrements typical of Rarity. She slipped into her high heels while Fluttershy touched up her eyeliner. “One last time, what are your legs made for?” asked Rarity, pacing around Applejack. “Dancing,” sounded-off Applejack. “What's your hair made for?” “Dazzling.” “What are you made for?” “Winning.” “Miss Applejack,” called a stagepony. “Your up.” “Hold on,” said Fluttershy. She straightened a stray hair in AJ's mane, smoothed out her dress and popped a breath mint in her mouth. “Okay,” she said. Applejack began trotting in place. “Thanks,” she said, biting into her mint. “And our final contestant,” called out the Mayor. “Hailing from the flat plains of Sweetapple Acres, give it up for Applejack.” Applejack proudly trotted out to meet the applause of the crowd and stood among the other contestants out on stage. Rainbow and Pinkie excitedly unfolded a pair of signs and raised them high. Rainbow's was colored orange and read: “AJ - 3:16.” Pinkie's was colored pink with Applejacks cutie mark surrounded with flames and read: “Born to Buck.” Applejack winked to her friends as a pony dressed as a referee came on stage. “Here are the rules,” she said, addressing the contestants. “Each pony will compete once for every round and be scored by the judges until there are only four left, after that they pick who'll be Miss Ponyville. Keep the cat-calls to a minimum and keep those hooves where I can see 'em. Okay, now touch hooves and come out strutten'.” In true sportsman fashion, the ponies all touched hooves. “Let's get it on,” shouted the ref. DING DING DING A fashionably done-up stage pony displayed a sign saying: “Round 1.” The first round was easy enough. A catwalk across the stage ending with a lavish pose. Simple, as it more showcased each contestant. Still, as Applejack posed for the crowd and judges she kept seeing Fluttershy and Rarity silently gesturing her to “smile more,” or “Smile way more then that.” DING Round 2 consisted of bird calls. Thanks to Fluttershy's coaching, AJ was able to call several sparrows, a few robins and a flock of geese. One pony was disqualified after she accidentally called a moose to the stage. But she wasn't too sad, seeing as she now had a ride home. DING By round 4, three ponies were already disqualified. AJ tore up the make shift dance floor with her moves, wearing a diamond-studded leisure suit and gold chains designed by Rarity. “Woo hoo,” cheered Rainbow. “I didn't know AJ liked disco.” “AJ?” asked Pinkie, “Where?” “Up there.” “That doesn't look like Applejack.” “Well it is.” “And she doesn't act like Applejack.” “It's her okay?” “Ooooo-k, if you say so...” “Ugh, whatever.” Twilight could only glance aside, hoping Rainbow and Pinkie wouldn't notice her worried face. DING Ditzy Doo held the “Round 9” sign until she flipped it right side up. Applejack stumbled exhaustively backstage to her coaches. Rarity already had her next outfit ready to go. “I thought you said (pant) only one (gasp) song and dance number...,” said Applejack. “Sure,” said Fluttershy. “One in classical, one in oldies, one in modern. You still have the freestyle left.” AJ couldn't help but wince a little. “You're doing great,” reassured Rarity. “Remember: step, turn, step, step, pivot, spin, step, pivot, turn.” “Step and.... wha?” “Five minutes ladies,” called a stagehand. “You heard them,” said Rarity. “Go go go.” In one swift movement she pulled AJ's ensemble off, spinning her into some nearby supplies. DING It was now the end of round 12. If Applejack looked worse for wear, you'd wouldn't be able to tell with all the makeup and her hair now done up in flowers. She gargled and spat water into a nearby bucket and let Fluttershy get back with the makeup touches. Rarity paced back in forth, shaking with nerves. “Okay,” she said. “Okay, we're in the finals but we can't relax. We have one last chance to make a good impression, so we have to be absolutely, positively perfect.” “Uh huh,” said Applejack to no one. “No room for the slightest error. Leave nothing to chance, and... Fluttershy,” Rarity yelled. She sighed, heavily, the eyeliner in her teeth. “What?” “You're not using enough eyeliner.” “Any more and she'll have a black eye.” “Stop being so frugal and give it here.” “I know what I'm doing,” Fluttershy was quite close to raising her voice. “And I know better,” Rarity tried to use her magic to grab the eye liner but Fluttershy had it in a vice grip in her jaws. “Give it here.” “No.” “Give....” “No.....” Bweeeeew Weeeeeeeeet! AJ's whistle brought the near-fight to a stop. “Ladies?” asked Applejack. “Could I get, maybe, five minutes alone please?” Begrudgingly both stepped out of the dressing room. “Nice, Fluttershy,” said Rarity. “I'm not the one being a..... big... silly.... bossy-boots,” said Fluttershy. The door closed before Rarity's response could be heard. Alone, Applejack sighed once again as she looked at herself in the mirror. The eyeliner made her twitch a little, the blush made her sneezy and the flowers in her hair were itchy. It was then suddenly when the door flew open again. “Look I said-” began Applejack. “Huh?” Three minutes later, Rarity and Fluttershy came barging back in. “Hello, Applejack,” sing-song'ed Fluttershy. “Ready to be crowned Miss-” said Rarity. The dressing room was empty. Rarity let her two cups of tea fall to the ground. Applejack?” said Rarity. “Where is she?” asked Fluttershy. “I don't know.” “Where did she go?” “I don't know.” Fluttershy gasped. “Oh no. What if she left? What if she left because we pushed her too hard? What if she's mad at us? What if she's really mad at us?” “D-don't be silly. Applejack wouldn't just leave. She's dependable... stalwart....and worked half to exhaustion... oh dear, we need to find her.” The two rushed out of the dressing room and scoured backstage, asking stageponies and two of the contestants. They then dashed to the third contestants dressing room. “They said this way,” said Rarity, running along side Fluttershy. “If she not here...” Fluttershy could only gulp. Both opened the dressing room door to the third contestant, Apollo. Only to see Applejack sitting next to her. “I'm just afraid that they wouldn't really like me,” said Apollo. “Why wouldn't they?” asked Applejack. “You were cuttin' a whole lotta rug out there.” “Well,” said Apollo. “I do love ballet. I call it the 'sweet science.'” “I could tell. You were having a blast out there.” “But now, oh what if I'm not good enough?” “We're you being yourself out there?” “Well.... yeah.” “Then you ain't got nothing to worry about. When you're being yourself, you're way better than good enough. My friend Rarity would say: 'You're fabulous.'” “Thanks Applejack. You think I've got a chance?” “Hey, it ain't over 'till it's over,” said AJ with a wink. “Good luck out there Apollo.” “Thanks, Applejack,” she said. “Sorry for barging in like that.” With a wink, Applejack left Apollo's dressing room, quickly noticing Rarity and Fluttershy. “Hey you two. I kinda had to step out for a sec. Hope ya’ll ain’t too worried.” Both of their eyes were big and pleading as they stared at Applejack. “Okayyyy,” she said. “Kinda gettin' weirded out here.” “I'm so sorry Applejack,” cried Rarity. “We're the worst friends ever,” joined in Fluttershy. “We've been pushing you so very hard.” “And-and, we kept making you do stuff you didn't like....” “Oh I am a big silly bossy boots.” “How could ever forgive us for-” Both Rarity and Fluttershy found themselves in a big double-hug courtesy of Applejack. “Ain't nothing to forgive,” she laughed. “‘Sides, I'm just as much to blame.” “But,” said Rarity. “We kept chiding you...” “It wasn't right,” said Fluttershy. “An' it’s just as much my fault for letting you,” said Applejack. “Every time I hear 'AJ can't do this or that' well then I've always gotta prove 'em wrong. No matter what. The blinders go on and suddenly I ain't seein' straight.” “But Applejack,” said Rarity. “If you knew that, why did you let us push you so hard?” “Well don't you both think I can win?” she asked with a grin. “If there's anyone who deserves to be Miss Ponyville,” said Fluttershy, “It's you.” “Absolutely,” said Rarity. “Then I reckon I got the best darn team any pony could ask for,” said Applejack. “Oh stop it Applejack,” said Rarity. “You'll make me tear up.” Before AJ could respond, they both got another crushing hug from Fluttershy. “(Sniff) I love you guys,” she cried. AJ and Rarity would respond, if they could breathe. Thankfully another stagepony passed by. “Gear up, ladies. Final round starts now.” Reluctantly, Fluttershy let them go. “Welp,” said Applejack, heading towards the stage. “This is it.” “Not quite,” said Rarity, stopping her. “Fluttershy, I'll need your help.” “Right, she said, with confidence. Taking Applejack to her dressing room they let down her mane and took out the flowers. They replaced her dress with a green scarf, and a brown vest. “And one last thing,” said Rarity. “It's not exactly your old hat but...” She took out a beige colored ten gallon cowboy hat, placing it on AJ's head. “Woo doggy,” she said. “Ain't that snazzy. Y'all sure about this?” Both proudly nodded. “Okay, one last thing.” Applejack grabbed a rag, spat into it and rubbed it on her face, removing the makeup. “Much much better.” Fluttershy gave a nervous grin while Rarity twitched her face to resemble something of a smile. On the stage, the crowd was thoroughly pumped. Applejack stood at attention along with the other contestants, including Apollo who stood beside her. AJ gave a brief wave to her friends in the audience. “And now,” said the Mayor, indicating to an envelope sitting on a table. “The moment you've all been waiting for. The winner and soon to be crowned, Miss Ponyville.....” Applejack found her hoof being gripped by Apollo, shaking with nerves. Backstage Rarity and Fluttershy held each other, eyes fixated on the show. Silence fell on the crowd. Twilight and Rainbow leaned in almost off their seats. “Is.........” said the Mayor, opening the envelope. All was quiet. Quiet. “Oh there's Applejack,” said Pinkie. “Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh,” went the audience. “Miss Apollo!” AJ folded her ears back hearing Apollo scream, which was just as loud as the audience. AJ and the other contestants gave her a congratulatory hug and pats on the back as she headed up to have a crown placed on her head. After shaking hooves with the other contestants, Applejack headed backstage. Her two-pony team tried to put on brave faces, but they looked more disappointed then anything. But before they could say anything... “Shucks I didn't think I'd get this far,” said Applejack. “Thanks.” Beaming with pride, the three walked off stage in unison. Back at Twilight's Tree: “Dear Princess Celestia,” started Rarity, talking to Spike with quill and parchment in hand. “There's nothing wrong with helping a friend, but sometimes you start to think you know what's better for them then they do. Even gong so far as to deliberately manipulate them while telling yourself it's for the best.” “But really,” added Fluttershy. “It helps nopony. Even if your trying to help, you should always respect the wishes of your friends. If you want to help, asking is enough, you don’t have to cover it up.” “I gotta say Applejack,” said Rainbow. “That was crazy intense, maybe I should try out next year and show you up.” “Oh really,” said Applejack. “Hey fashion team, RD here's thinking of trying out next year. Got any ideas?” Rarity and Fluttershy looked at each other with a pair of sly grins. “Oh do we,” said Rarity. “I could definitely see Rainbow in a Summer dress.” “Of course,” said Fluttershy. “We'd have to teach her the etiquette of a proper tea party.” “Summer dress?” asked Rainbow. “Tea parties? No thanks.” “Is it just me Fluttershy,” said Rarity. “Or would Rainbow look better as a blonde?” “Sure,” said Fluttershy. “Right after we touch up her wings with some pink bows and-” “Okay okay,” interrupted Rainbow. “Yeeeech. Never mind.” After a good laugh, Pinke bounced toward Applejack. “You were a dancing machine Applejack,” she said with a boatload of enthusiasm. “Tango, limbo, disco, I didn’t know you liked that stuff.” “Well... to be honest,” said Applejack, sheepishly. “We understand,” said Fluttershy. Rarity nodded. Applejack smiled. “Hey Spike?” “Way ahead of you,” said Spike with a fresh piece of parchment. “There’s nothing wrong with trying new things, in fact I encourage it,” said Applejack. “But if you try something and you don’t like it, don’t be afraid to say so. Being a good friend doesn’t just mean having a lot of similarities. It’s okay to have differences and not to feel obliged do stuff your not comfortable with. You should never be afraid to say no.” “Annnd done,” said Spike. Sending the two letters off to Canterlot. “I reckon y’all learned some real valuable lessons, ya done good pilgrim,” said Twilight. “Huh?” said pretty much everyone. “Shucks howdy,” she responded. This posse is lookin’ more nervous then a long tailed cat inna room full a rockin’ chairs. Buck up, partners.” “Twilight,” said Applejack. “Yes ma’am?” “Is that my hat?” “........ yes.” “Uh huh.” “I couldn’t help it,” Twilight smiled. “It just looks so..... dashing. Sorry.” “Heck, I knew none of y’all could resist,” smiled Applejack looking at Rainbow and Pinkie. With her magic, Twlight placed the hat back on AJ’s head. “Ah, glad to have you home,” she said. She then looked over toward Fluttershy and Rarity. “Any one else wanna take her for a spin?” “Really?” asked Fluttershy with excitement. “Can I go next?” asked Spike. “I appreciate the gesture Applejack, but” said Rarity, then starting to blush. “............ maybe just once.” The tree couldn’t help but be filled with laughter.
