Chapters Chapter 1: The Beginning
Many ponies in Equestria love the sweet taste of a piece of candy. The luscious flavor and the feeling of it overwhelms the mouth. Now Princess Luna may want ponies to start eating healthier, but it won’t stop ponies from enjoying their favorite sweets. Some ponies have even got their cutie marks because of them.
But there has to be ponies in Equestria to make all this candy. Some of the most popular brands are the Hoofies Chocolate Factory on Hoofies Ave in Manehattan, or the Lunar Incorporated Factory in Canterlot.
However, every candy company falls below the lines of one particular company. For you see the most popular Candy Factory in Equestria, situated just outside of Ponyville, it the Pinkie Pie Chocolate Factory.
Now this wasn’t an ordinary Chocolate Factory. No…for you see this factory was the largest in the World. It was a good fifty times as big as any other. Built by the strongest of ponies, on the flattest land in the area, the factory was built to be dazzling.
It was thanks to this factory that Ponyville had grown as much as it had over the years. More and more ponies came to live in town as to be closer to the factory. They were all thrilled to be working in such an interesting place.
…But that was some time ago.
Now I do believe we should meet the pony who will lead us on our wonderful journey.
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“And with that, Princess Luna was banished to the moon. There she stayed for one thousand years before…”
The school bell range, cutting off the purple/pink pony at the front of the room. Freezing, she looked up at the clock.
“Oh my, it seems I’ve been talking for too long. Now remember to have chapter 18 read by Monday class” she said as the students began to pack up their supplies.
Soon all the students had scurried out of the room…all expect for one. At the back of the room, at the far right, sat a small earth pony. She had a bright red mane, which was tied with a bow, and a yellow pelt.
The foal was still packing her things into her saddlebags. But unlike all the other foals, she was taking her time. All her pencils and paper were carefully put in their proper place.
The pink pony at the front, who was now sitting at her desk, looked over at the foal.
“Apple Bloom, aren’t you going to head home. Not that I wouldn’t mind if you’re staying. It does get lonely sifting through papers alone all evening” she said.
“Don’t worry Miss Cheerilee; I’m heading out. I just wanted to make sure everything was in the right spot” said Apple Bloom. She tossed her saddlebags onto her back, and headed for the door.
“Do be careful walking home, the snow will make things slick” said Cheerilee.
“I will. See you Monday Miss Cheerilee” said Apple Bloom. And with a swift motion, she was out the door.
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Apple Bloom walked through the crowded hallway on her way to the front doors. Many foals were either walking to different locations in the school, or getting things out of their locker. Thankfully Apple Bloom had all of her stuff with her, so all she needed to get from her locker was her scarf.
Reaching her locker, located just around the corner from the front door, Apple Bloom began to swirl the dial to the right numbers.
“10…10…10” said Apple Bloom. She kept thanking herself that she got the easiest combination in the school.
Pulling the locker open, she pulled her scarf down from the hook, and flung it around her neck.
“Hey Apple Bloom” said a voice.
Turning around, Apple Bloom saw a foal with a curly red mane, an off white pelt, and two candy canes in the shape of a heart as a cutie mark.
“Oh, hey Twist. What’s going on” asked Apple Bloom, giving her locker a buck shut as she did so.
“I was about to head home, and was wondering if you’d like to come with. Your house is a little further along, so you wouldn’t have to walk that much farther” said Twist.
Apple Bloom’s face became questionable. “Would we go down Hoof Street or Buck Ave” she asked.
“Hoof Street, it’s the fastest” said Twist with a big smile.
Apple Bloom rubbed the side of her leg. “Oh, well you see Twist…I have to go down Buck Ave. Applejack wants me to pick up some stuff for the farm” she said.
Twist showed a face of disappointment. Looking down at the floor, she gently moved her hoof in circle. “Oh, okay then. Maybe some other time” she said.
“Right, some other time” said Apple Bloom. As she began walking towards the corner, she looked back at Twist. “See you around Twist. I promise we’ll walk home together some day” she said.
“Yeah, okay” said Twist, and then she walked down the hallway.
Apple Bloom turned the corner and headed for the door. “Sorry Twist, but I just really wanted to go by it” she said to herself. Reaching the door, she swung it open and walked outside.
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The strong just of cold wind blew on Apple Bloom’s face. Snow picked up off the ground and swirled around her. Not even her scarf could keep her as warm as she wanted.
“Sweet Celestia, why is it we have school on days like this” she asked as she walked down the steps of the school.
Once at the bottom, she turned to the left and started walking down the sidewalk. Every once in a while a stallion pulling a cart would pass by on the street, spaying snow everywhere at the same time.
Ponies wearing winter halts and scarfs would also pass by; carrying packages and parcels. No doubt these would be gifts for Hearth's Warming Eve in a month’s time.
But as Apple Bloom walked along the sidewalk, her mind was only on one thing.
Once she reached the intersection of Hoof Ave and Buck Road, she walked across the street and took Buck.
Nothing seemed particularly special about Buck Ave: The houses were normal, the shops were normal, and the ponies were normal. But one thing made it very special.
For halfway down the street, in full view of Ponyville, was Pinkie Pie’s Chocolate Factory; the Largest Chocolate Factory in HISTORY!!!!
The many chimneys that protruded from the rooftops puffed out smoked that swirled through the air. And the sweet smell of fresh chocolate could be smelled for miles.
But the whole factory had dull grey color to it. Not that it detracted from the splendor of the factory. Even the wall around it, with the large iron gates at the front, looked amazing.
And as Apple Bloom walked beside the front wall, she looked up at the chimneys, taking in the smell of chocolate as she did so.
But before she knew it, she was standing right in front of the main gates. Turning to the right, she looked through them towards the three large front doors.
“Why is it that I never see anypony going in or out” she asked herself.
However Apple Bloom couldn’t look long, because now she had passed the gate and had to turn left; this was the right way home.
Walking across the street, she headed down the sidewalk that would take her out of town.
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Once Apple Bloom had left Ponyville, she walked down a small dirt road. The snow was covering most of it, but it wasn’t deep enough that she was having a hard time getting through.
And soon a large, red, snow covered barn came into view.
“Thank Celestia, it seems to get longer and longer every time I walk down here” she said as she walked through the front gates.
Besides a few odd buckets and racks, the yard was completely empty. The trees were so barren that you could see for miles behind them.
Reaching the door, Apple Bloom gave it three hard knocks.
“Coming, Coming” said a voice on the other side.
Suddenly the door flew open, basking light over Apple Bloom and the surrounding area.
And in the doorway stood an orange earth pony with a blond mane, a cowboy hat, and three apples as a cutie mark.
“Apple Bloom, good to see you made it home. What took you so long” asked the mare as Apple Bloom walked past her.
Rubbing her hooves together, Apple Bloom threw her saddle bags into a nearby chair. “Sorry Applejack. I went a different way this time” she said.
“Well I’d suggest going the faster route next time. We don’t want ya being out there in this kind a weather” said Applejack.
“Yeah, I know. But right now all I want is to get warm. Is there a fire going” asked Apple Bloom as she hanged her scarf on a hook.
“Yep. Granny should be sitting by there to, but I think she’s taking her nap” said Applejack.
But Apple Bloom wasn’t listening. She was already out of the kitchen and in the living room. Almost immediately warmth came around her.
The fireplace sat on the wall to her right. Pictures of a baby Big Mac, Applejack, and Apple Bloom could be seen. A few others of Hearths Warming Eve days and birthdays were also hanging around the room.
In front of the fire place was a rocking chair, which currently held an female earth pony. She was a sour apple green, with a grey mane, and an apple pie as a cutie mark.
Her head was slopped down, and she was snoring loudly. Not even the sound of Apple Bloom walking beside her could wake her up.
“Same old Granny; taking a nap during the day” said Apple Bloom. But right now she was more focused on getting warm. She happily rubbed her hooves together in front of the fire. The heat coming off it made her hooves feel good.
“Apple Bloom, can you go get some apples from the cellar. I need some for dinner tonight” called Applejack from the kitchen.
“Can do” Apple Bloom called back. Then she picked herself up and walked off to the cellar.
When she came back, with a bucket of apples on her back, she found something surprising. Granny Smith was awake and staring happily at the fire.
“Nice to see you’re up Granny” said Apple Bloom as she approached the fire.
Granny turned and looked at the young foal. “Why hello there dearie. What are you doing with all those apples” she asked.
“Applejack asked me to get them. She says she needs them for tonight’s dinner” said Apple Bloom with a smile.
“Well I hope she doesn’t use too much. We don’t want to go through all our apples too fast” said Granny, sounding like she was annoyed and concerned.
“I’ll be sure to tell her that” said Apple Bloom, and she turned away from Granny and walked towards the kitchen door.
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“Thanks for bring the apples” said Applejack after putting the bucket of apples on the counter.
“No problem sis. But can I go back to the fire now, I’m still a little cold” said Apple Bloom. She was beginning to feel cool in her hooves again, and wanted to warm up more.
“Go ahead. In fact I might join you; takes a little while for the stove to heat up” said Applejack.
“Alright” said Apple Bloom with a smile.
But before the two could even turn towards the living room, the back door burst open. Gust of cold wind blew in, throwing lose snow all over the place. Then a big earth pony walked in, before shutting the door behind him.
The pony was a dark red color, with a blond mane, an apple cut in half as a cutie mark, and was wearing a large brown collar and green scarf.
“Nice to see you made it home without turning into a popsicle Big Mac” said Applejack.
“Eeyup” said Big Mac as he put his scarf on a nearby chair.
“Well since you just got out of the cold, you should come and join us bro. We’re going to warm up by the fire” said Apple Bloom.
Big Mac nodded, and the three of them walked into the fire lit room.
Granny heard them come in, and looked around as they neared the fire. “Aw, so you’re all coming to spend some time with your granny” she said as they sat down in front of the fire. Big Mac threw a few more logs on to keep it hot.
“Just until the stoves warmed up Granny. Then I have to get back to making dinner” said Applejack.
“That’s fine. So, what yall want ta talk about” said Granny.
“I’ve got something to ask actually” said Applejack, then she looked at Apple Bloom. “Care to explain why you were so late today”?
Apple Bloom looked at the fire, keeping her gaze away from her sister. She had this sense were she could tell if someone was lying or not, so there was no reason not to tell the truth.
“I was late getting home because…because I…went down Buck Ave” said Apple Bloom.
Applejack smiled smugly “Aw, so you went by the factory hu” she said.
“Yeah. I just really like the taste of Chocolate, and it smells like chocolate every time I walk pas there. So I took a detour so I could get a whiff” said Apple Bloom.
Applejack chuckled “I can’t blame you. When I first had some of Pinkie’s Chocolate, I felt like I was in heaven. Every time I could I would by one of her chocolate bars. Of course…that was before that happened” she said, her voice suddenly turning sad.
Apple Bloom looked confused “What do ya mean? What happened” she asked.
The faces of Granny, Applejack, and Big Mac scrunched up; as if they wanted to say something, but didn’t know how to.
“Go on and tell her, but start from the beginning” said Granny. She to sounded sad and serious.
Applejack took in a deep breath, and then let it out. “Alright. This is what happened”.
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“About twenty years ago, a small shop opened up here in Ponyville. Now this wasn’t strange at all, since lots of people decide to set up shop here. But this wasn’t no ordinary shop.
It was a sweet shop, going by the name of “Pinkie’s Sweets”. And as its named suggested, it was run by a mare named Pinkie Pie. She was young for a candy maker, but that didn’t stop her.
At first the shop had some competition from other sweet shops, but soon ponies were lining the side of the street to get inside. Every time I went there after school, I’d be standing on the sidewalk for half an hour before I got it.
The shop sold all kinds of candy. Chocolate bars, chocolate ice cream, lollipops, nerds, taffy, rock candy, and much more. We even had a small contract with Pinkie to provide apples for her Candy Apples.
Soon ponies from all over Equestria were asking for Pinkie to send them her candy. And that’s when Pinkie got an idea.
Five years after opening her shop, Pinkie announced she was going to build a factory to mass produce her confections. Now all of Equestria could taste her sweet treats.
Hundreds of earth ponies, unicorns, and Pegasus moved to Ponyville to help with the building of the factory. An area was cleared away outside of town, and four years later the factory was done. But it wasn’t just any ordinary factory; it was the largest chocolate factory in the world. A good fifty times as big as any other.
And for the next few years, life was pretty sweet. More ponies were hired to work in the factory, drawing more business to Ponyville. Builds were popping up left and right, more than doubling the size of the town.
But nothing good last forever. Pinkie wasn’t the only candy maker in Equestria, but she was the best. This caused the other candy makers to get jealous. They needed to find a way to compete with her…and their answer wasn’t good.
They decided they needed to get their hands on her recipes so they could either keep up with her, or drag her down. They sent ponies to work in the factory and get her trust. Then they’d sneak the recipes out and give them to the other companies.
Soon Hoofies started making an Ice Cream that would never melt. Lunar Incorporated made a gum that never lost its flavor. Then a company called Slugworth’s began making candy balloons that would could blow up to incredible sizes.
The thievery was getting worse and worse. At this rate, Pinkie wouldn’t have anything left.
Then one day without warning, Pinkie did something strange. She told every single one of her workers to go home. Once they were out she closed the gates, and then announced that she was closing her Chocolate Factory… forever.
And after that, Pinkie’s shop in town was closed. Letters to the factory demanding it be reopened were piling up in the post office. People sometimes would just stand in front of the factory, looking at the chimneys. But no smoke rose out of them.”
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“But it didn’t close forever. It’s open right now” said Apple Bloom.
“Well that was a surprise for all of us. The factory was closed for three years. Ponies that had moved here to work at the factory stayed around; hoping that Pinkie would reopen the factory. Then one day, some ponies saw smoke rising from the chimneys; the Factory was open again” said Applejack.
“Did everypony get their job back” asked Apple Bloom.
“Nnope, no one did” said Big Mac.
The family sat in silence for a moment. The only sound that could be heard was the crackle of the fire.
“But there must be ponies working there” said Apple Bloom.
“Think about it sis; have you ever seen a single pony going into that factory, or coming out of it” asked Applejack.
Apple Bloom put a hoof to her chin, thinking. “No, the gates are always closed.”
“Exactly” said Big Mac.
“But then, who’s running the machines” asked Apple Bloom.
“Nopony knows. It’s one of the biggest mysteries surrounding that factory” said Applejack.
“Hasn’t somepony asked Pinkie Pie” asked Apple Bloom.
The room was silent again, but not for long.
“Nopony sees her anymore; she never comes out. The only thing that comes out of that place is the candy; already packed and addressed” said Granny, who had remained quiet while the others spoke.
“Eeyup” said Big Mac.
Applejack rose up from the floor. “We I’d better see if the stoves heated up yet. I’ll call when dinners ready” she said. And turning swiftly, she walked out of the room.
“And I have to get some more firewood” said Big Mac, spotting the small amount of logs by the fire. Then he too got up and left the room.
Apple Bloom and Granny were left alone.
“And to think; I was hoping to one day go inside that factory. Now, I guess I won’t be able to” said Apple Bloom, lowering her head to the floor.
Granny looked down at her, with a warm smile on her face. “Nothing’s impossible dearie. You may just get your chance one day”.
“Yeah…maybe” said Apple Bloom.
And until Applejack called them for dinner, the two sat it silence, looking at the fire.
Chapter 3
There are many magical places in Equestria, both literately and figuratively. There’s the rainbow falls, Neighagra Falls, Cloudsdale, and much more. Each one of them fills the viewer with awe and calmness.
But they all fall when it comes to the Crystal Empire.
As the name suggests, the whole empire is made of crystal. From the shops to the homes, and even the streets. Not only that, but the ponies there shine like a fresh crystal to.
And sitting in the middle of the empire is a glorious crystal castle. In it lives the Prince and Princess. They watch over and protect the empire, making sure no evil harms the ponies.
This was one place ponies from all over Equestria come to see.
But now, most ponies weren’t paying attention to the buildings and the castle. Instead, most ponies were gathered on a single street. They crowed around a small shop halfway down, with conversations going on all over the place.
“It’s really in there?”
“Can’t believe ones been found already!”
“Think we could get in and see it?”
And inside the shop, things were just as crazy.
Ponies with cameras and notepads were shouting things out so fast it was hard to comprehend.
“Truffle, over here please!”
“Smile for the camera, it loves ya!”
“Mind answering a few questions?”
“Let’s see that gold!”
The ponies were all shouting at a small foal that was standing up near the shop register.
The foal’s coat was gray, with a dark brown mane and tale. His cutie mark was a knife and a fork. And…he looked a little chubby.
Next to him stood an older mare, most likely his mom. She had a light grey coat, a short cut black mane, and a spoon as a cutie mark. Like her son, she looked chubby.
But the foal was also holding something in his hoof. Laid out where everyone could see it was a rectangular sheet of golden paper. But, inscribed on the front were the words: GOLDEN TICKET.
“Truffle Shuffle, would you mind telling us how you found the first Golden Ticket” asked a pony, using magic to write things down on a notepad.
The foal, Truffle Shuffle, smiled. “Of course I will. So I was eating my eight Pinkie Bar of the day as usual. Normally I eat it, and an hour later I get a new bar. But this time, something was off. I tasted something that wasn’t chocolate. Or coconut . . . or walnut, or peanut butter . . . or nougat. Or butter brittle, or caramel, or sprinkles. I spit out what I tasted, and it looked like gold. So I looked down at the bar, and found the Golden Ticket right there.”
“Amazing story Truffle. So how are you celebrating this marvelous achievement” asked another reporter, this one with a camera?
“That’s easy; I eat more candy” said Truffle. Then, from out of nowhere, he pulled out a Pinkie Bar. Ripping off the paper, he took a big chunk out of it and began to chow down.
“Any comments on your son’s achievement Mrs. Shuffle” asked a pony in the back.
“Well I just knew that Truffle would find the Golden Ticket. He eats so many Pinkie Bars a day that it was not possible for him not to find one” said Mrs. Shuffle.
“Are you excited to be going to the factory Truffle” asked a reporter in the front.
Truffle finished the Pinkie Bar he had been eating. “Of course I am. I love Pinkie Bars, and now I get to go to the factory. This would have to be the best moment of my life. And I have to give Pinkie credit for this contest. She’s going to be earning a lot of money thanks to all those ponies buying bars” he said.
“Come on Truffle, show off that ticket more” screamed another pony with a camera.
So Truffle held the ticket up high, and all ponies with cameras started taking pictures.
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Meanwhile, back at the Apple Farm, Granny Smith and Apple Bloom were listening to the broadcast live on the radio.
“The first Golden Ticket has been claimed, and there are now only four more left” said the announcer.
“What did I tell you? I knew he would be a porker” said Granny.
“Come on Granny, don’t say things like that” said Apple Bloom.
Applejack walked in from the other room and over to the two.
“Any big news” she asked sitting down.
“They found the first Golden Ticket up in the Crystal Empire” said Apple Bloom.
Applejack snorted “As if that place didn’t need any more publicity” she said.
“And things have just gone up in excitement around her folks. For you see Princess Cadence has just arrived. I’m not kidding, she’s actually here. We’re be right back to see if we can get a comment” said the announcer.
The Apples were surprised by this recent news.
“The Princess is there to” asked Apple Bloom.
“Makes sense if you think about it. This is a big thing for the empire, so the Princess most likely wants to see it” said Applejack.
“Alright ponies, it’s actually happening. We’re about to get a word from the Princess on all of this” said the announcer.
The Apples listened, leaning forward so they could hear better.
“Hello Princess, thank for so much for giving us a moment of your time” said the reporter.
“It’s no trouble at all, I don’t mind answering a few questions” said Cadence.
“Now Princess, what is your word on the finding of the first Golden Ticket by Truffle Shuffle” asked the reporter.
“I think I speak for everypony here when I say who happy I am that the first Golden Ticket was found here in the Crystal Empire. I am also very proud of Truffle Shuffle for his achievement. It is always a pleasure to see a young filly or colt accomplish something great” said Cadence.
“That’s a beautiful thing to say Princess. Now may I ask a different question? Are YOU hunting for a Golden Ticket as well” asked the reporter.
The princess chuckled “No, I’m afraid I’m not. And if I had been, I would have stopped after today. I wouldn’t want to take the spotlight away from Truffle. I want him to remain the Golden Ticket finder of the Crystal Empire” she said.
“Once again, that is beautiful Princess” said the reporter.
“Thank you. Now I hate to cut this short, but I’d like to go in and congratulate Truffle” said Cadence.
“Of course Princess. Thank you for your time” said the reporter.
Applejack got up and turned the radio off.
“Well one’s been found. Now the question is who’ll find the others” she said. Then she turned around and walked back towards the kitchen.
“Whoever it is, they’re going to have to speed up their search to find them before everypony else does” said Apple Bloom.
“Yep. Now that they found one, things will really get crazy” said Granny.
Chapter 4
There are many grand and high class places in Equestria. Places where the rich and the fancy spend their time with others like them.
And in Equestria, that place would have to be Canterlot.
Situated on the side of a mountain, it is the hub of fancy and high class ponies, who mostly spend their time shopping or trying to get ponies to invest in their company.
It is also where Princess Celestia rules over Equestria. Her castle is in full view of the city, and from the mountain she can see over all of her subjects. It is also where she raises the sun in the morning and lowers it at night.
But she is joined also by her sister Princess Luna. As princess of the night, she guards Equestria while the ponies sleep through the darkness.
It almost seemed like nothing could overshadow all of this.
But something could, and something did.
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There is a place in Canterlot called the “Upper Sector”. This was where everypony that was rich and powerful stayed. The houses that lined the street were large and elegant. Each had a large iron gate at the front, and spectacular gardens leading up to the front steps.
It was on one of these streets that a large crowd had gathered. They stood in front of the largest house in the sector. It had large iron gates wrapping around the grounds, with bushes planted on the outside. The front yard was clean and had a walkway up to the large wooden doors. Columns where placed around the house, giving it even more splendor.
The crowd was stuck behind the iron gates, but there was commotion coming from inside.
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Inside the house, another crowd of ponies were standing in the entrance hall. It had large white walls with pictures of beautiful mares and handsome stallions. A large staircase stood at the end, which lead two ways to the rooms upstairs. A few plants stood in areas around the room.
The ponies in the crowd had cameras, notepads and pens, as well as microphones. They were all facing towards the stairs, where a stallion, a mare, and a young filly stood in front of the stairs.
The stallion was a light brown earth pony with a black mane which was styled back. He wore a white collar and a red tie with a dollar symbol on it. Three bags of money were his cutie mark.
The mare was a light blue earth pony with a purple mane with a white streak running through it. She wore a purple jacket, and had an engagement ring in a box as her cutie mark.
The filly was a light pink earth pony with a dark purple mane with a white streak running through it. A tiara sat on her head, and it was also her cutie mark. But the filly was also holding something in her hoof. A golden piece of paper that read: GOLDEN TICKET.
“Diamond Tiara, that’s a wonderful name. But could you spell that for us please” shouted a reporter with a notepad in his hoof.
“Why of course. D-I-A-M-O-N-D T-I-A-R-A, Diamond Tiara” said the filly.
The pony quickly wrote that down, that others did the same.
“Diamond Tiara, would you mind telling us how you found the Golden Ticket” asked a unicorn.
But before Diamond Tiara could say anything, the stallion next to her interrupted. “I’d actually be very glad to answer that particular question for you” he said with a smile.
“But wouldn’t Diamond Tiara know about getting the ticket Filthy” said the unicorn.
The stallion cleared his throat “Mr. Rich will do just fine. And this isn’t the case, right sweet heart” he said, looking at Diamond.
Diamond looked uneasy for a second, but then flashed a smile. “Of course daddy” she said.
Mr. Rich turned back to the crowd. “You see as soon as my precious Diamond told me she had to have one of these Golden Tickets, I started buying up all the Pinkie Bars I could lay my hoofs on. Thousands of them, actually hundreds of thousands. But it was going to be difficult for Diamond to get through all those bars. So I simply did what any high business pony would do at this stage: use what you have available.”
“And that’s exactly what I did. I own three businesses’ here in Canterlot, and one specializes in manufacturing goods for the common pony. The workforce that builds each machine are all unicorns, which was perfect for my needs.”
One Week Ago
Mr. Rich walked along the gantry walkways above a large factory floor. The room was large enough to hold a size fifteen air ship, and conveyors spanned the distance. Along the sides of the conveyors where tables where pairs of three unicorns were sitting.
Mr. Rich walked up to a large podium on the walkway, and then the mic was turned on.
Mr. Rich cleared his throat “Morning fillies and gentlecolts, I have some urgent news to give you. Until further notice you will no longer be building the normal machines that you make every day. Instead you shall be pealing the wrappers off these Pinkie Bars as they come down the conveyor. You are to search for one of Pinkie’s Golden Tickets. If the bar you open does not contain one, put is back on the conveyor and move on to the next one. The pony that finds the Golden Ticket will get a one hundred bonus in their pay. Good luck, and let the conveyors roll” he said.
Suddenly the conveyors sprang into life, and soon piles and piles of Pinkie Bars were coming along with them. And it wasn’t long before the unicorns were using their magic to tear open the bars.
“Three days went by and we had no luck, it was terrible. My little Diamond got more and more upset each day” said Mr. Rich.
“Where’s My Golden Ticket, I Want My Golden Ticket” asked Diamond, stomping her hoof on the ground.
“We’re searching as fast as we can right now dear. We’ll get it to you as soon as possible” said Mr. Rich.
“BUT I WANT IT NOW!” screamed Diamond Tiara.
Present Day
“And as you can tell I just hated to see my little girl feeling unhappy like that. I vowed I would keep up the search until I could give her what she wanted. And just a few days later, one of my unicorns found a Golden Ticket. My little girl was so happy to have one, you should have seen the look on her face” said Mr. Rich.
Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes, but continued to smile for the camera.
That was the story that her dad had told her they were going to tell. He didn’t want his whole search for the ticket to look like a waste of time, so they made up a new one. Diamond still remembered how she really found the ticket.
Two Days Ago
Diamond Tiara was walking back and forth across her room. It was large enough to hold a good fifty ponies and still have enough leg room. The walls were all painted pink, and the bed was so large you could hold a fancy dinner on it.
Diamond had a glare on her face, and moved from looking at her bedroom door to the large window, then back again.
“Why hasn’t daddy found my Golden Ticket yet? He has a whole factory floor of ponies looking for it, and five days later they still haven’t found it. And somepony else has already found the first ticket. I WANTED IT TO BE ME” she said, screaming the last part.
“Well, what do you think” she asked, turning to a pony who was sitting on a cushion near the middle of the room. The pony was a dark gray mare with a light gray mane, which was tied in a brad at the end. She had a silver spoon as a cutie mark, and wore a set of blue glasses and a fine pearl necklace.
Next to the pony was a pile of opened Pinkie Bars, and six non-open ones sat on the other side. She continued to open them, and didn’t look up.
“I think you should be happy your dad’s doing this for you. You could be like me and have to do it all by yourself. My family bought the bars, but then said I had to open them myself. You have an army of unicorns looking for yours; count yourself lucky” said the pony, still not looking up as she opened two more bars (both with no ticket) then tossed them in the pile.
“I know Silver Spoon, but I want my ticket now! I’m just so angry and sad” said Diamond as she continued to walk back and forth.
“Why not do something to make you feel better, that’s what I usually do when I get angry” said Silver Spoon as she opened another empty bar. Now there was only one left.
“Your right, I could always do what most mares do when they get upset” said Diamond.
Then just as Silver Spoon was reaching for the last bar, Diamond walked past and swiped it up, not even looking down as she walked toward the door.
“Drown my sorrows in Chocolate” she said.
Silver Spoon looked sadly at her. “But that one was…oh never mind. I can just get my dad to but more” she said.
“Good, because I need this” said Diamond, ripping off one end as she did so. But before she took a bite, something flashed across her face.
Diamond looked down, and her eyes widened at the sight in front of her.
Sitting above the chocolate was a gold piece of paper. And on the front read “GOLDEN TICEKT”.
Diamond was speechless for a minute, but then she pulled out the ticket and jumped as high as she could. “I FOUND IT! I FOUND THE GOLDEN TICKET” she screamed.
Silver Spoon turned to her, mouth hanging open like it was broken. “You found the Golden Ticket, in the bar that I was about to open” she said.
“BUT YOU DIDN’T OPEN IT, I DID! AND NOW I GET TO GO TO THE FACTORY! WAIT UNTIL EVERONE HEARS ABOUT THIS” she screamed. And with one last jump into the air, she ran to the door, flung it open, and raced out.
*************************
Present Day
Back at the Apple Farm, Apple Bloom was sitting next to the radio with Granny Smith.
“And that’s how she found the Golden Ticket. Now that’s all we have from our sources right now, but don’t you worry we’ll be back just as soon as we can. Until then we’re going to kick things over to our mane mare Vinyl Scratch for your music. Take it away Vinyl” said the reporter.
“Hey everypone, this is D.J. Pon-3 bringing you the latest music that’s hot and tripping. Here’s the latest from Sapphire Shores’ newest album…” said Vinyl.
“That girls even worse than the fat one. The foal with the ticket, not the music one” said Granny, making sure Apple Bloom understood.
Apple Bloom huffed “Well I don’t think that’s very fair. She didn’t find the ticket herself. She resorted to others to find it” she said.
“Don’t worry kido, she’s spoiled. And nothing good comes from being a spoiled foal. Although I do believe she deserves a good kick in the flanks” said Granny.
Apple Bloom chuckled, and Granny Smith did the same.
They were laughing so hard they didn’t notice Applejack and Big Mac walk in. Both were wearing saddlebags that were stuffed full of items.
“What are you two laughing about” asked Applejack.
Apple Bloom and Granny looked over at the two.
“Oh, it’s nothing. We were just talking about stuff” said Apple Bloom, still letting a few giggles escape her.
“By the way, were have you two been. You didn’t tell us you were leaving” said Granny.
“We had to go out and get some supplies, that’s all Granny” said Applejack.
“We seem to be going to the stores a lot these days” said Apple Bloom.
“Blame the writer” said Big Mac.
“What was that” asked Granny.
“Nothing” said Big Mac.
Applejack rolled her eyes. “Anyway, there is something we wanted to say to you Apple Bloom” she said.
Apple Bloom looked nervous. “Whatever it was I didn’t do it” she said.
“No, it’s nothing bad. You see when we were out, we talked about how you haven’t been able to search for a Golden Ticket like everyone else. And we thought you should at least have one shot to find it before we can decide on anything” said Applejack, and she reached back into her saddlebag. “So in exchange for reducing our amount of cabbage, we bought you this.”
Apple Bloom watched as Applejack took something from the saddlebag and placed in front of the foal. It was a chocolate bar, but not just any chocolate bar. With its party background wrapper and curly letters, there was only one thing it could be: A Pinkie Bar.
“Well, what are ya waiting for, Open It” said Applejack.
Apple Bloom rubbed her hoof. “I…I don’t know. Maybe I should wait until tomorrow” she said nervously.
“Girl for the past two weeks you’ve been saying that the moment you get a Pinkie Bar you’re going to rip it open. Now one’s right in front of you and you don’t even want to touch it? You won’t know you’re a winner until you open it, so go ahead and do it” said Granny.
Apple Bloom looked at the three family members, then down at the bar. Slowly, she reached out and pulled it towards her. She took a deep breath, then began to peal the paper away from the right end, doing the same to the left. Now all that was left was to rip the paper off.
“Now Apple Bloom, you mustn’t be disappointed if you don’t, you know, get the ticket” said Applejack.
“And remember, whatever happens you’ll still have the chocolate” said Big Mac.
Apple Bloom took a deep breath, and then pulled at the wrapper with all of her might. The wrapper flew off and landed on the floor next to her.
After staying quiet for a second, she looked down at the bar.
Nothing. Nothing but chocolate.
The family stood in silence for a moment, with nopony saying a word.
“Well, that’s that. Nothing more we can do about it” said Granny, looking sadly at the plain bar.
“Sorry Apple Bloom, but look on the bright side. You still got the chocolate, like Big Mac said” commented Applejack, with a hint of disappointment in her voice.
“Yeah” said Apple Bloom sadly.
“Well we gotta go put some stuff away. You enjoy yourself” said Applejack. Then she and Big Mac walked out of the room.
Apple Bloom took the bar and gave it a good look over.
“Well, not much to do now. Over the lips, between the gums, look out stomach, her she comes” said Apple Bloom. And then she took a large bite out of the bar.
She began to feel better.
Chapter 5
Apple Bloom ripped the paper of the Pinkie Bar in her hoof. As soon as it was cleared away she saw the glorious Golden Ticket lying on the dull chocolate.
Apple Bloom took the ticket in her hoof and threw the chocolate away.
“I FOUND A GOLDEN TICKET, IT’S ALL MINE” she screamed, jumping up and down as she did so.
“MINE, ALL MINE, MINE…”
*************************
“Apple Bloom…Apple Bloom…APPLE BLOOM!”
Apple Bloom’s neck went straight as she heard the voice calling out to her. Turning her head away from the window, she saw Ms. Cheerilee and the rest of the class looking at her. Only the students had amused faces, while Ms. Cheerilee had on her “You Got Busted” face.
“Apple Bloom, I don’t appreciate ponies’ day dreaming in my class. Now start paying attention or I’ll be sending you down to Principle Faust’s office” said Cheerilee sternly.
A few of the students started to whisper and snicker at what was happening. Only one or two looked sorry for Apple Bloom.
Apple Bloom shook her head and sighed. “Sorry Ms. Cheerilee, I’ll start paying attention” she said, pulling her notebook closer together.
“Good, now where was I? Oh that’s right, the defeat of Lord Tirek” said Cheerilee, turning back to the board.
*************************
An hour passed by with Apple Bloom and the rest of the foals trying to stay awake through Cheerilee’s presentation about some evil dude who wanted to rule Equestria.
But while some of the foals simply paid attention and others fell asleep, Apple Bloom went back to looking out the window (But in a more forward way so she didn’t look like she was daydreaming).
“That dream was great, albeit a little too eccentric. I want that Golden Ticket more than anyone, but I’ve only opened one bar. At this rate they’ll all be gone” she thought to herself.
But she was soon shaken from her thoughts as the school bell rang. Foals who were close to or had fallen asleep quickly packed their things and ran out the door. And as usual, Apple Bloom was the last one.
But as she approached the door, she was stopped.
“Hold on a minute Apple Bloom, I want a quick word with you” said Cheerilee.
Apple Bloom mentally kicked herself in the head. Whenever anypony was held back after class, it usually meant trouble. Last time Feather Flight was held back and apparently was given a long, loud lecture about poking mares in the flanks to impress his friends.
But Apple Bloom didn’t recall doing anything that bad, not in the last few weeks anyway. So what could Cheerilee want to talk to her about?
Apple Bloom walked over to Cheerilee’s desk, where she looked down at her. But her face didn’t look like how Apple Bloom had expected. Instead of it looking annoyed or angry, it looked normal and kind.
“Apple Bloom, I think its quiet obvious why I held you back, wouldn’t you say” asked Cheerilee.
“Uh…wasn’t it because I was daydreaming in class” asked Apple Bloom.
“Well that’s part of the reason. The other reason is because you seem to be less…happy. A few weeks ago you were smiling and taking your life in strides. Now you just seem more depressed. As a teacher it’s my responsibility to talk to you if you are depressed and help you in any way I can” said Cheerilee, in a proud voice.
Apple Bloom gave a small smile. “Thanks Ms. Cheerilee, but I’m fine. I’ve just had a lot on my mind right now. I’ll try and be happier” she said.
“Well, if you’re sure about that, then I’ll let you handle it. But remember to come to me if you have anything you need to talk about” said Cheerilee.
“Will do Ms. Cheerilee, see you Tomorrow” said Apple Bloom, and she walked out the classroom door.
*************************
Apple Bloom walked down the cold sidewalk with her scarf wrapped tightly around her neck. The snow wasn’t deep enough that it was hard to walk, but it did mean she had to walk slower.
She continued to walk down the sidewalk until she came to a stop. She had stopped in front of a large oak tree. But this tree had a door at the front, windows, and a balcony at the top. A few snow covered paths ran from the front door to as far as they could go until they reached the buildings next to the tree. A large sign that sat at the front read: “Golden Oak Library”.
Apple Bloom walked the small path up to the front door. A nice hoof mate had been placed in front of the door that read “Reading is Magic”. A sign on the door gave the hours of the library, and a message saying that all theft will be reported to the local authorities.
Apple Bloom gave the door a push and watched it swing open. A small bell rang above the doorframe. Not a second later a warm breeze blew all over Apple Bloom, warming her up.
She walked into the main lobby and closed the door behind her. Rows of books stacked on shelves built into the wood circled the small area. A few tables with comfy pillows to sit on were also stationed around the room. Only one other pony was in the room, a grey earth pony who was reading at one of the tables.
“Welcome to the Golden Oak Library, were knowledge is power and books are magic. I’ll be with you shortly” called a voice from one of the other rooms.
Apple Bloom walked over to one of the tables and sat down on what looked like the comfiest pillow. She pulled a book out from her saddlebag and began to read. It was a fiction book about a pony who finds himself in a maze with no memory and has to find a way out with a bunch of other ponies. Apple Bloom found this book very interesting.
Her eyes were glued to the book for a good ten minutes before another pony walked into the room. She looked up from the book and at the pony that had walked in.
The mare was a purple unicorn with a dark purple mane with dark pink streaks running through it. Her cutie-mark was a dark pink six point star with five miniature white ones around it.
When the mare spotted Apple Bloom, she smiled and walked over to the table.
“Hello Apple Bloom, nice to see you again. You haven’t come by in a while. I haven’t been able to check your homework” she said.
“Hello Twilight. And sorry about that, I’ve just been more…occupied with other things. But I’m here now, I just don’t have any homework for you to check” said Apple Bloom as she put her book away.
Twilight smiled “Then how about we talk over a cup of tea. I have the kettle on upstairs”.
“Oh, well okay. A warm cup of tea sounds nice” said Apple Bloom.
“Great, follow me” said Twilight, and she walked towards a staircase placed away from the main lobby.
Apple Bloom picked up her saddle bag and fallowed Twilight up the stairs.
*************************
When Apple Bloom and Twilight reached the top of the stairs, they found themselves in a large kitchen area. A large fridge and stove sat in the corner and a counter with a sink and other appliances ran along the wall. A round table with chairs and a fancy looking center decoration was close by. Another staircase was next to the fridge. That probably led to the bedrooms above.
“Make yourself at home, I’ll get the tea ready” said Twilight, walking towards the stove.
“Thanks” said Apple Bloom, and she headed over towards the table.
“So how’s the family doing? Last time I spoke to Applejack it was during cider selling season. You guys sure were getting a lot of money from that. But that just proves it’s hard to own a farm during the winter” said Twilight.
“Yeah, we have to spend our money wisely. We can’t grow anything until Spring, so we only eat and buy what’s necessary” said Apple Bloom.
“That’s a smart thing to do. If you keep doing that you’ll get through this winter with items to spare” said Twilight. She was walking over to the table with a tray of tea and biscuits levitating next to her. She placed the tray down on the table and floated a cup in front of Apple Bloom. “Cream or sugar” she asked.
“Creams fine” said Apple Bloom. Twilight levitated the cream mug and tipped it over the cup.
“So, changing topics, how have you been handling the Pinkie Contest” asked Twilight, who then took a sip from her cup.
Apple Bloom took a sip from her cup as well. “Oh, well me and Granny have been following it pretty closely, yet I’ve only opened one bar. I really want to win, but how can I if I can’t open ten bars an hour. Others can, so they’re going to be the ones to find them.”
Twilight smiled. “Don’t count yourself out so soon. You have as much a chance as anybody does. It all comes down to luck, not how many you buy. Although, the amount you buy does help your luck.”
“That part about me having a chance is exactly what Granny said to me” said Apple Bloom, who then took a large bite out of a biscuit.
“Then that just proves your Granny speaks wise words. But you are right; ponies who can afford to buy bars every day are really determined to find those tickets. It’s almost unhealthy” said Twilight with a disapproving look.
Apple Bloom cocked an eyebrow “You sound as if you know somepony who is like this”.
Twilight pinched in-between her eyes. “I know two, and both are determined to find that ticket more than anything.”
“Mind telling me who they are, if you don’t mind” said Apple Bloom.
Twilight let out a large breath. “I’ll tell you the first, and then show you the second. You said you’ve been fallowing the contest closely right?”
“Yeah” said Apple Bloom, a little questionably.
“Do you remember what Princess Cadance said about the contest” asked Twilight.
“Yeah, she said that she wasn’t taking part in the contest and even if she was, she would stop because she doesn’t want to take the spotlight away from Truffle” said Apple Bloom.
“You see that’s how all princesses in Equestria should be like. However, one of them isn’t like that” said Twilight, looking down at her half empty cup.
“Don’t tell me it’s Princess Luna” said Apple Bloom “She’s the one who’s trying to get ponies to eat healthier.”
Twilight sighed “No, it’s not her…it’s her sister”.
Apple Bloom’s mouth fell wide open. “Princess Celestia is trying to win this contest” she asked.
“Yes she is, and it’s almost like an obsession” said Twilight.
“But why does she want to win so badly, she’s the Princess after all” said Apple Bloom.
“Well this happened just five years after Pinkie closed her factory. Princess Celestia called Pinkie Pie to Canterlot for a personal meeting with her. Naturally Pinkie accepted, and she met with the Princess a few days later. She was shown the entire castle and grounds, and they say Pinkie was so inspired she said she was going to make a new kind of candy because of it. Then Princess Celestia took Pinkie into the throne room. Besides a one or two guards, there was no one else in the room. Princess Celestia sat on her throne, and told Pinkie she had something to ask her” said Twilight.
“Well what was it” asked Apple Bloom, eager to find out.
“She asked Pinkie if she could have a personal tour of her factory. She explained that she had always been a fan of Pinkie’s chocolate, and she wanted to see what the factory was like. Now if you were in Pinkie’s situation, what would you say” asked Twilight.
“I would say yes. It’d be an honor to have the Princess visit your factory” said Apple Bloom.
Twilight leaned in closer to Apple Bloom. “Well get this. Pinkie, as if she was answering what her favorite color was, said NO!”
Apple Bloom almost fell of her chair in surprise. When she regained her balance, she looked over at Twilight. “How could someone say no to the Princess” she asked.
“I don’t know, but Celestia wasn’t going to give up so easily. When Pinkie said no, Celestia wanted to know why. Pinkie said she was protective of her privacy, and that included her factory. Celestia told Pinkie she wouldn’t tell a soul anything about the factory, but she wouldn’t go for it. That’s when things got tense. Celestia said that she would use her powers to force Pinkie to let her in. But the high council said that Pinkie had rights as well, and therefore Celestia couldn’t force herself into the factory. After that Pinkie left Canterlot, saying she would never visit again and that she was canceling the candy idea she was thinking of” said Twilight.
“Wow, Pinkie must have nerves of steel to stick up to the Princess like that” said Apple Bloom.
“Yep, and ever since that day Celestia has been trying to find a way she can see the factory. When the contest was announced, she ordered for boxes of Pinkie Bars to be shipped directly to the Castle. Now she has guards looking through the bars trying to find a ticket” said Twilight.
“She almost like that Diamond Tiara” said Apple Bloom.
“Yeah, only a lot less mean and greedy. She’s still the heartwarming Princess everyone knows, but she gets serious when it comes to Pinkie’s Chocolate” said Twilight, who took another sip of her tea.
“By the way, didn’t you’d say you were going to show me something” asked Apple Bloom.
Twilight set her empty tea cup down on the table. “Oh yeah, I did. Well come on then, I’ll show you” she said. She hopped down from her chair and walked towards the upward staircase. Apple Bloom jumped off her chair and fallowed her.
*************************
Twilight lead Apple Bloom up the winding stairs. Soon they came to two blue doors: One on the left, and one on the right. Twilight turned to the one on the left and knocked three times.
“Not now Twilight, I’m busy” called a voice from behind the door.
“I’ve got another box for you” said Twilight. Apple Bloom was confused by this because Twilight had no box with her.
“Oh, alright then. Come on in” said the voice.
Twilight turned the handle and pushed the door open. She walked into the room and Apple Bloom fallowed her.
The room was a fairly normal sized bedroom. A large bed with purple and green bedspreads sat in a corner next to a large window. Bookcases with Comic Books and Manga lined the walls, except for two places where a small desk and closet sat. Posters with superheroes on them were pinned to the ceiling.
But when Apple Bloom walked into the room, she felt something on her hoofs. Looking down, she saw tore up Pinkie Bar wrappers lying on the floor. And when she looked up, she noticed something on the bed.
It was a dragon. A small baby dragon with purple and green scales. It was sitting on the bed with a box next to him. When the two walked in, he looked at Twilight.
“Hey, where’s the box Twilight? You said you had one for me” said the Dragon as he opened another Pinkie Bar.
“Sorry Spike, I just told you that. I wanted to show Apple Bloom how obsessed you’ve got in finding a Golden Ticket” said Twilight with a disapproving face.
Spike huffed and threw the torn wrapper on the ground. “It’s not an obsession, it’s just a hunt. There are tons of ponies out there doing the same thing as me, some are even more extreme.”
“And they’re just as crazy as you are” said Twilight. Then she turned to the foal behind her. “Come on Apple Bloom, I think Spike would prefer if we left him alone”.
“Oh yeah, sorry you had to see my room this messy Apple Bloom” said Spike. He reached inside the box and began rummaging around. He pulled something out of it. “Here, catch” he said, and tossed the item towards her.
Apple Bloom caught it and looked down: It was a Pinkie Bar.
“Wow, uh, thanks Spike” said Apple Bloom.
But then Twilight picked Apple Bloom up in her magic and carried her over to the door. “We’re leaving” she said. And as soon as they passed through the door, she dropped Apple Bloom and shut the door behind her.
*************************
“Sorry you had to see that. I can’t stand Spike when he’s doing something stupid. Not to mention he’s using library funds to buy all those Pinkie Bars” said Twilight as she and Apple Bloom walked back down to the Lobby.
“It’s alright; I didn’t find it that weird. At least he’s got a goal he’s shooting for” said Apple Bloom.
“He should have a goal that’s more productive. Like reading a book in a week or making something that’ll help other ponies. Opening candy bars to win a contest doesn’t help anyone but himself” said Twilight.
The two reached the bottom of the stairs and entered the now empty lobby.
“Well thanks for the tea Twilight, but I better get going. Applejack doesn’t want me outside too late. Not after what happened last time” said Apple Bloom.
“What happened last time” asked Twilight.
“Let’s just say you can do a lot with a chicken and four bags of jelly” said Apple Bloom.
“What can…you know what, never mind. Anyway thanks for stopping by Apple Bloom. It’s always nice to see you” said Twilight.
“Same here Twilight. Well I’ll see you later” said Apple Bloom. She walked over to the door and pushed it open.
“Bye Apple Bloom” said Twilight as Apple Bloom walked out the door.
Ticket #3
Chapter 6: Ticket #3
But the moment Apple Bloom walked out the door; something smashed into her face, and covered it.
“Hey, what’s going on” she asked as she pulled at the thing that had blown onto her. But with a good huff, she managed to pull it off. Looking down, she saw that it was a newspaper.
“And when are you from?” she asked. She turned to the front page (ignoring the front story) and looked at the date. “Oh, it’s todays. Well let’s see what’s…GOLLY” she screamed, seeing the title on the front page.
*************************
Back at the Apple Farm, the Apples were sitting around the fireplace. A stack of cards sat in the middle of their circle, and each was looking at the others with great care.
“So Big Mac…got any fives?” asked Applejack.
“Nnnope…Go Fish” said Big Mac.
Applejack groaned as she picked up another card.
“Alright Applejack, do you have any…”
Big Mac couldn’t even finish his sentence before the front door burst open. Apple Bloom came running in with a newspaper in her saddle bag.
“Everypony, I got news. They found another one” said Apple Bloom as she took the newspaper out of her bag and placed it over the deck of cards.
“What in hogs name are you talking about sis” asked Applejack.
“Just read the page, you’ll see” said Apple Bloom.
So the three Apples looked down at the front page.
It was mostly filled with a large image of a young filly. Her smile spread across her entire face, and she was holding something in her right hoove. And at the top, the headline read: “Third Golden Ticket Found!”
“Well I’ll be a hog tied buffalo. I can’t believe they found the next ticket so fast” said Applejack.
“I don’t count anything against fillies and foals nowadays. So who’s the lucky filly” asked Granny Smith.
Applejack read the paragraph beneath the photo. “The third ticket was found by a filly called…Scootaloo.”
*************************
Of all the cities in Equestria, there is one that is so much different from the rest. Not only is it occupied by just Pegasus, but it’s the only one that can travel around the country.
And the name of this great city is called Cloudsdale.
This city is, not surprisingly, made entirely of clouds. All the buildings, streets, machines, and pretty much everything else is made of clouds. Because of this, the only Pegasus can live there as they are the only ones who can walk/touch clouds.
But Cloudsdale also serves a very important role in the life of Equestria. Whenever a town starts winter, Cloudsdale comes and delivers fresh snow clouds for the Pegasus’ to move into place. And the Rainbow Factory is where all rainbows in Equestria come from.
But today, ponies in Cloudsdale weren’t worrying about any of that. Instead, all the Pegasus reporters from across the land were converging on a house in the middle of the city. Non reporters lined the streets, while those who either got there first or were very important were inside.
A few unicorn reporters were there to, since they knew a spell allowing them to walk on clouds. And one determined earth pony had tied balloons to his middle section to allow himself to get a good story.
And the story they were trying to get was from a small Pegasus filly standing in the middle of a large trophy room. Shelves upon shelves of trophies lined the walls along with blue ribbons and pictures. Each one showed a blue Pegasus winning competitions.
The filly that was in the middle of it was a Pegasus mare with a dark purple mane and an orange pelt. And held in her hoof was a rectangular piece of gold paper with the words “GOLDEN TICKET” writing in large black letters.
Next to the filly was a much older Pegasus mare. She had a mane that was all the colors of the rainbow and a light blue pelt. Her cutie mark was a thunder cloud with a lightning bolt coming out of it. But the lightning bolt was also all the colors of the rainbow.
And both were grinning for the flood of photographers that were in the room with the reporters.
“Scootaloo, are ALL the trophies in this room YOURS” asked a reporter.
The filly smiled “No, these trophies all belong to Rainbow Dash. She’s the one who competes in and WINS all the competitions.”
The blue Pegasus rubbed Scootaloo’s head. “Hey, I didn’t find a Golden Ticket? That’s all on you Scoots, and I know you’ll blow all the other ponies out of the water.”
“So Rainbow Dash, what exactly are you to Scootaloo? Mother, Sister, Cousin, I don’t think we have a clear idea” asked the Earth Pony reporter.
Rainbow Dash let out a small laugh. “No, I’m not any of those things. I’m her friend/sister figure. We’re not related, but I fill the role of sister in her life. And, not to brag, but I’m her personal coach as well.”
The reporters quickly wrote down the touching/inspiring information.
“How did you achieve this goal Scootaloo” asked another reporter.
“Well when I heard about the competition, I started buying up all the Pinkie Bars I could get. Course when I heard that two other ponies had already found tickets, I got a little nervous. But I kept looking, and eventually I found one,” said Scootaloo.
“Ever persistent, just like I taught her” said Rainbow Dash.
“So Scootaloo, how happy are you to be going to see Pinkie’s Chocolate Factory?”
“I’m really excited. The poster said that one of the visitors will win a really special prize. Personally I don’t care who those other four are. The foal that’s going to get that prize, and be better than all the rest, is going to be me” said Scootaloo confidently.
“Tell them why Scoots” said Rainbow Dash with a smile.
*************************
“Because I’m going to be a winner, Just Like Rainbow Dash!”
The Apple Family was gathered around the radio by the fireplace listening to the report on the third Golden Ticket find. The news stations had been talking all about it since the story first broke out.
“That filly doesn’t sound right in the head to me. And I don’t mean she’s crazy or mentally challenged. I mean she’s too hung up on winning and nothing else” said Applejack.
“Eeyupe” said Big Mac.
“Sounds pretty despicable to me” said Granny Smith.
“But she still got one. And now there are only two Golden Tickets left” said Apple Bloom.
“Yeah, makes you wonder when they’re going to pop up” said Applejack.
“And we once again give our congratulations to…hold on, we’re getting some breaking news from our outside sources.”
The Apple Family listened closely.
“What’s going on now?” asked Apple Bloom.
“…SWEET CELESTIA FOLKS, We have some fantastic news to share. It seems the FOURTH Golden Ticket has been found!”
The whole Apple Family gasped.
“And the name of the lucky foal…is…Button Mash!”
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The early morning sun sneaked its way through the curtains in Apple Blooms room. Soon it found its mark: Apple Bloom’s face. The young filly, who had been sleeping soundly, cringed as the bright light shown across her.
She turned over, blocking the sun’s rays with her back. But now she was awake, and after trying to fall back into a deep slumber for two minutes, decided it was time to get up.
Walking to the nearby dresser, she grabbed the hook in her mouth and pulled it open. Inside, neatly arranged in rows, were lots of pink bows. Picking one out at random, she quickly tied it around her hair.
“Looking good girl” said Apple Bloom as she looked into a nearby mirror.
After making her bed and picking up a few odd things here and there, she left her bedroom and headed down the stairs.
When she reached the bottom, she found Big Mac putting logs into the now empty fireplace.
“Morning Big Mac” she said.
Big Mac looked over at her and smiled “Morning” he said. Then he went back to the fire.
Apple Bloom walked to the nearby door and into the kitchen. Applejack was standing by the stove, stirring something that smelled really good.
“Morning Applejack” said Apple Bloom, not seeing her mouth being to water because of the good smell.
Applejack stopped stirring and looked over at her. “Good morning Apple Bloom. Sleep well” she asked.
“Yeah, it was great. I’m full of energy and ready for the day” said Apple Bloom happily.
“Well that’s great, because I have a job for ya” said Applejack. She pulled a list from off the counter and set it in front of Apple Bloom. “I need ya to run into town. We’re running low on a few vegies and I need ya to go get some more” she said.
Apple Bloom’s face fell “But I haven’t even gotten breakfast yet” she complained.
“Well the faster ya get home, the sooner ya get breakfast” said Applejack.
Apple Bloom groaned, but she put on her scarf, grabbed the list, and headed out the door.
*************************
Apple Bloom trudged through the fresh morning snow. It was much harder than it had been the day before. Now she had to work even harder to make it through. Sometimes the snow reached up to the top of her legs, and she had to hop to get farther.
Thankfully she reached the town edge, where the snow was much more walkable thanks to the ponies whose job it was to clear snow.
But Apple Bloom noticed something strange when she walked onto the sidewalk. A group of ponies were gathered around a nearby street lamp. Some in the back were jumping so they could see whatever they were looking at.
“Maybe a colt got his tongue stuck to it” she thought. But she decided to get a straight answer. So she walked over the group, and started pushing her way towards the front.
But when she reached the front, she didn’t find a colt stuck to the pole. Instead, she saw a poster hanging from it instead. Even thought it was up high, Apple Bloom was still able to read it.
DEAR PONIES OF THE WORLD
I, PINKIE PIE, HAVE DECIDED TO ALLOW FIVE FOALS TO VISTIT MY FACTORY THIS YEAR. THESE LUCKY FIVE WILL BE SHOW AROUND PERSONALLY BY ME. AND WILL LEARN ALL THE SECRETS AND MAGIC OF MY FACTORY.
FIVE GOLDEN TICKETS HAVE BEEN HIDDEN UNDERNEATH THE ORDINARY WRAPPING PAPER OF FIVE ORDINARY PINKIE BARS. THESE FIVE CANDY BARS MAY BE ANYWHERE: IN ANY SHOP, IN ANY STREET, IN ANY TOWN, ON ANY LANDMASS IN THE WORLD.
IN ADDITION, ONE OF THESE FOALS SHALL RECEIVE A SPECIAL PRIZE BEYOUND ANYTHING YOU COULD EVER IMAGINE. GOOD LUCK TO ALL. AND HAPPY HUNTING!
PINKIE PIE
Apple Bloom stood there with her mouth hanging open for a few minutes. While all around her, ponies were talking.
“I can’t believe it; she’s actually going to let ponies in!”
“Where do you think the Golden Tickets are?”
“Wherever they are, I’m going to find one!”
“We’ll see about that, I’ll find one before anyone else can!”
“GAME ON!”
Soon the ponies of the group began to go back to what they were doing before. But Apple Bloom continued to stare at the poster for a few more minutes.
“I could…win a trip to the Factory” she said silently. She leaned over and looked at the factory in the distance.
“Alright, better hurry home and tell the others” said Apple Bloom. So she ran down the street towards the shops.
After buying all the veg. on the list, Apple Bloom ran down the street back to the Apple Farm.
But everywhere she looked, it was chaos. All the sweet shops were overloaded with ponies. They crowded around the inside and outside, screaming and trying to push their way in. A few foals sneaked out from under the adults, with Pinkie Bars overflowing their saddlebags.
“They’ll all be sold dry by noon” said Apple Bloom.
Then as she passed the pole with the poster, she reached up, yanked it down, and shoved it in her saddlebag. “Better than telling em” she said. And then she bolted down the sidewalk.
When she finally reached the barn, she kicked open the door and ran inside. Applejack was pouring whatever she had been cooking into bowls. She looked over when Apple Bloom ran in.
“Hey sis, you sure got home quick. Ready for some delicious breakfast” she asked.
“Yeah, but not now. You have to see this” said Apple Bloom. She pulled out the poster and set it on the table. “EVERYPONY, COME CHECK THIS OUT” she screamed.
Big Mac and Granny walked in a moment later.
“What is it dearie” asked Granny.
“Come look at his poster; it was hanging from a bunch to street lamps out in town” said Apple Bloom.
The family gathered around and looked at the paper. But with each line they read, their eyes grew bigger and bigger. And when they finished, they too were silent for a moment.
“I can’t believe my eyes; Pinkie is going to let ponies into her factory” said Applejack, still in awe about what she had read.
“Eeyup” said Big Mac happily.
“Don’t get your hopes up you two. She says foals are allowed to visit, and there are only five golden tickets. If anyone has a chance in this family, its little pintsized here” said Granny, rubbing Apple Bloom’s mane.
“Really, you think I have a chance” said Apple Bloom hopefully.
“You have as much chance as anypony does” said Granny.
“So can I go start loading up on Pinkie Bars” asked Apple Bloom.
Applejack’s face fell. “Can’t say sis. Remember we have limited money during the winter. Until we can see what it’ll cost to keep us going until spring, we’ll have to hold up on buying chocolate” she said sadly.
Apple Bloom’s face fell as well. “Alright, I understand. But you should have seen the mob of people outside all the sweet shops. They were fit to burst, and I bet every one of them wanted to buy Pinkie Bars” she said.
“Eeyup, this is going to be a crazy contest” said Big Mac.
*************************
And Crazy wasn’t even close to what this contest was doing.
All over the world, stores carrying Pinkie Bars were being overrun with ponies. All of them were waving a bag of bits and demanding ten or twenty bars at a time. Some just threw their bags on the counter, grabbed some bars, and ran out the door.
Cities like Manehattan and Las Pegasus had to call in the police to keep the crowds under control. And small towns all over Equestria were offering Pinkie Bars to those who helped keep the crowds under control.
And when a store ran out of bars, some ponies camped outside so they could get in first when the new shipment arrived.
Filly Delphia was even reporting that some ponies had tried to sneak into the warehouses and steal the incoming Pinkie Bars.
*************************
At the Apple Farm, Granny Smith and Apple Bloom were sitting in the living room. Granny was in her favorite rocking chair, and Apple Bloom was sitting on some cushions. A radio was placed above the fireplace; with the volume turned up to they could hear. A report on the Golden Ticket search was being sent through.
“Already we have reports coming in that the response to the contest is phenomenal. Pinkie Bars are beginning to disappear from sweet shop shelves at a rate to boggle the mind. Truly it is incredible the way that Pinkiemania has descended upon the globe. While the world searches, we watch and wait, wondering where the pursuit will lead and how long the spirit of pony will hold up under the strain.”
“They’ll tear towns apart looking for those tickets” said Granny.
“All the shops in town are already sold out. And ponies are spending every cent they can spare on Pinkie Bars” said Apple Bloom.
“Wasting so much money on chocolate, it’s just not right. Buy a candy bar if you have some spare money, but don’t spend it all on forty bars” said Granny.
Just then Applejack walked down the stairs. When she saw Apple Bloom and Granny listening to the radio, she walked over to them.
“What are you two listening to” she asked.
“Latest update on the contest. They’ve already sold out all the shops in Ponyville, and ponies are demanding they get their next shipments in” said Apple Bloom.
“Geez, ponies sure are gathering up lots of Chocolate. Must hurt when they spend all that money and don’t get a Golden Ticket. But I do suppose they can eat all that chocolate to make them feel better” said Applejack.
“Well I can tell you one thing; the pony that finds the first ticket will be fat, Fat, FAT” said Granny.
