Friendship is Failure #5: Pride and Punishment

by DakariKingMykan

Rating: everyone
Tags: Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Rainbow Dash, Drama, Original Character, Rarity, Twilight Sparkle
Length: 8237

Twilight and friends try to convince a stubborn yet talented pony to look past his potential.

Twilight, Rarity and Rainbow Dash meet a young pony who is angry at her brother's disinterest in life and his potential of being a great actor.

When confronting the brother pony, it is discovered that he has far too much pride in his own decisions and desires that makes it extremely difficult to convince him to change, and causes bigger rifts with his sister.

LESSONS:

1: Sometimes there's more than ONE WAY to get what you want. Even the MOST COMMON way is not the only way.

2: Give someone a fair chance REGARDLESS of their lack of experience or references. They may just surprise you.

3: You cannot change how somebody feels what is Right or Wrong, nor can you force them to believe in what you believe. All you can do is hope to set an example.

Published 2017-06-17 19:20:07 UTC
Last updated 2017-06-17 19:20:07 UTC

Opening Act: Friendship is Calling

Author's Note

This fic is inspired by THE ULTIMATE OTAKU TEACHER, as well the stubborn inconsiderate people who refuse to listen when I say things.

It's also based on how I would behave in real life if things were like this.

Opening Act: Friendship is Calling

OPENING ACT

Rarity and Rainbow Dash had been summoned to the Friendship Palace as their cutie-marks were glowing. “I wonder what the map is calling us to this time.” wondered Rainbow.

“Whatever the reason, I do hope it is someplace rather glamourous.” said Rarity, but then she got a hole of herself, “Uh, I mean, I also hope we can solve whatever is going on wrong.”

They arrived at the palace, and soon they along with Princess Twilight and Spike were seated at the map and got a good look at the location. “What? The problem is right here in Ponyville?” Rarity asked.

Twilight nodded and motioned at the map. “The map’s even called me to come with you two on this mission, I don’t know why, but there must be some-pony having a serious friendship crisis.”

“Well, what are we waiting for?” Rainbow cried with such enthusiasm, and she flew off so quickly she crashed into a stone column, crumpling it.

“I’m good.” she called.

“Oh, Rainbow...!” groaned Spike.

Soon the friends were on their way, which wasn’t actually far away to go seeing as the area was just a mile away from the palace itself. “Any-pony see anything?” asked Rainbow.

All any of them could see were ponies all happy, going about their business, playing on a beautiful day or sharing with one another, but not a sign of anyone who was having a friendship problem.

Suddenly, they heard the sound of someone shouting, “Get back here!” and that’s when a tannish yellow Earth Pony with a short brown mane and a Cuitemark in the picture of a spotlight, came galloping down the road yelling behind him “Get away from me!” and he galloped right past the gang making such a zooming wind that blew their manes in tangles, Spike fell off Twilight’s back.

“My mane…!” Rarity screamed.

Then, a second Earth Pony, a mare whom was bright yellow with a blue and pink streaked mane came rushing along. Her cutiemark was that of an Olympic medal. “Just wait ‘til I get my hoofs on you!” she shouted as she galloped along, but unlike the stallion, she accidently crashed right into the gang and they all fell into a huge pile.

“Oh, my gosh…!” she cried “Princess Twilight Sparkle… I’m, ever so sorry!”

Twilight and her friends got up, and before any of them could say anything, the very Stallion the mare was chasing, her older brother stood and glared angrily at her!

“Get it straight Ath-Lita…!” he sneered at her “You can chase me and beat me all you like, I’m not interested, and wonder why I avoid you!”

His sister growled angrily, “Talon Ted, you are so stupid it’s not even funny. You have a real opportunity and…!”

“I don’t even hear you!” her brother scoffed, and he put his hoofs over his ears humming loudly was he went off!

Ath-Lita angrily stomped her hoof the ground, while the gang gawked at her, “I think we found the problem victims.” said Rainbow.

Act 1: A Gruff Act to Follow

ACT ONE

Ath-Lita apologized for having run over the princess and her friends again, “I’m also sorry you had to see that. My brother is really stubborn.”

"Um… if I may ask, what were the two of you squabbling about?” asked Rarity.

“Yeah, it looked like you two really had a big fight.” added Spike.

“I’d really rather not talk about it.” said Ath-Lita “It’s a family issue, and I really don’t want anyone else getting involved.”

But Twilight wouldn’t heard of it and insisted, “Can’t you just tell us what’s wrong? We’re actually here to help with a friendship problem, and you just may be who were looking for.”

The others all nodded, and Ath-Lita decided to explain.

She and her older brother Talon-Ted-- a pun of the word "Talented" used to be really close growing up, both of them were extremely gifted; Ath-Lita loved sports and athletics, and her dream was to compete in the Equestria games and win gold medals for all of Ponyville.

“That is so awesome!” said Rainbow, “But what’s this got to do with your brother?”

“I was getting to that…” replied Ath-Lita, and she went on explaining that her brother was a very talented actor, singer, dancer, and impressionist, “He wanted to get into the business really badly, but after he graduated from college and earned his acting degree, he turned down every single offer that was given to him!”

“What?!” snapped Rarity, and the others gasped in shock.

“Hard to believe but it’s the truth.” said Ath-Lita, “Now all he ever does is just sit on his tail at home all day doing nothing, that is when he’s not at work, and it’s all because of this cash settlement he got a few years back.”

She explained that a few years back, after her brother graduated from college with his degree, he got involved in a terrible coach crash and was awarded one million pounds in gold. “Apart from what little he makes at work, he just lives off the settlement, and it sickens me that he’s wasting his life and potential away like this, but every time I talk to him about he scoffs at me and doesn’t listen to a thing I say. All I’m trying is to make him understand that I want him to have his dream!”

Rarity stood tall and firm, “No!” she snapped “This cannot be allowed to happen! I’ve never heard of such an illogical fallacy!”

Rainbow actually agreed with her, “I’m with you, Rarity. Whatever’s got this guy down, we need to set him straight, or at least get him to understand.”

Twilight nodded in agreement and decided that the first thing to do would be to talk it over with Talon-Ted.

“He works on a loading dock for a delivery service in town square. That’s where you should find him. If not then you got me.”

“Right, come on girls.” said Twilight, and she ran off with her friends, “I’m not a girl so you know.” Spike pointed out.

Ath-Lita wanted to go with them, but she had track practice. She just hoped they could all convince her brother to straight up and fly right.

As Talon walked to work, he could suddenly hear music from a street band playing, and he liked the music so much that he began to dance on his way to work.

Many other ponies saw him; the way he twirled, stepped, flipped so skillfully, by the end of it all and the music stopped, everyone applauded thunderously at him. He really was as talented as the pun of his name suggested, and being courteous, he bowed politely as he continued on his way to work.

That’s when Twilight and her friends caught up with him. “That was amazing.” said Twilight.

“Oh, Princess… well, thank you I guess. If you’ll excuse me now,” and he walked off.

“Wait!” cried Rarity “May we talk with you for a moment.”

Talon couldn’t see the harm in it at first, “Is there anything I can do?”

“Yeah, you see we talked with your sister…” Rainbow said, but hearing that made Talon sigh and roll his eyes, “Goodbye…” and he turned to walked away, but Twilight teleported in front of him, “Please, just wait a minute.”

“I’m sorry but I’m no longer interested, not if my sister has you in this.”

“If you’ll just listen…” said Rarity.

“NO!!” thundered Talon. Every-pony in the streets turned to face him. He apologized for yelling, “Please, I don’t wish to talk about this.” and he walked off.

“Well, that went swimmingly.” said Rarity.

Spike kept eyeing Talon until he was out of sight, “He wouldn’t hear what we had to tell him, it’s like he knew what we were going to say.”

The friends of course were not willing to give in. “Come with me, I have an idea.” said Twilight, and the friends all went off together.

Author's Note

Talon is also a REAL guy's name, but it's meant to be focuses on "Talented"

Besides, even if I named him anything else, my haters would still find some lame excuse ot whine and complain about him

Act 2: Sullen Pride

ACT TWO

Working as a loader. All Talon ever did was move big boxes and packages from the delivery wagons into the stockrooms of the building, or vice-versa. If it wasn't boring it was exhausting, and the only reward other than the money he earned was the exercise that came with it.

Of course, being the gifted and imaginative actor he was, during breaks, he often liked to be alone, and sit himself in quiet corners, and imagine himself in adventure fantasies-- like shooting a movie or being in a cool play.

Today he quietly daydreamed about a space fighter movie. He was the leader, sitting in a fighter ship and that he and his fleet were soaring through space in a cosmic war.

Strangely, he imagined his teammates resembled Twilight and her friends.

“Scout to wing-leader!” cried Twilight, “We’ve got enemies coming at Twelve-o-clock!”

Radar showed many enemy ships and a giant battle-cruiser heading their way. “Weapons armed, let’s party!” said Talon.

“Aye-Aye!” said Spike.

“I what…?” asked Rarity.

“Never mind!” replied Spike.

The ships flew in and engaged battle, firing lasers and missiles. Rainbow shot two bogeys down. “Take that space suckers!”

“Help!” Twilight cried “I’ve got one on my tail! I can’t shake it!”

“I’m coming!” cried Talon, and he maneuvered in and shot the bogey down, “No one threatens my teammate.”

With all the rouges finished off, the team prepared to finish off the mother kill cruiser, piloted by the dreaded Athlitas… the dreaded space pirate. She actually contacted them on their radios, “You and your forces are doomed, Captain Talon. You’ll have no choice but to surrender to me!”

“Not today Athlitas!” shouted Talon.

The kill cruiser began to fire many laser beams and missiles, prompting the team to swerve, roll and maneuver their ships in furious directions.

The ships started to get hit. “Energy systems dropping!” cried Twilight. “We’ll be blown apart!” shrieked Rarity.

“Keep going, we’ve got her in range!”

“Aye-Aye!” said Spike.

“I what?” asked Rarity.

“Ugh… forget it!” snapped Spike.

The ships continued to maneuver in. “Get ready!” shouted Talon “Fire!” and they all unleashed their missiles to the bridge. Athlitas screamed as the missiles crashed and began to destroy the cruiser.

“Brace yourselves… SHE’S GONNA BLOW!!” shouted Talon!

KAPOW!! The cruisier was destroyed, blown into space junk, and the team was safe.

“All ships check in!” called Talon.

Twilight: “So far, so go!”

Rarity: “Okay, okay! What’s next?”

Rainbow: “No sweat, skipper!”

Spike: “Aye-Aye… and don’t say it!”

With the day saved, the five ships headed off for their next assignment.

That’s when Talon snapped back into reality. He sighed, having felt much better, but someone cleared their throat wanting attention.

"What, I'm on my break!" Talon snapped, but then he realized it was Twilight and he friends stopped at the gate. “Oh, it’s you all again.”

Twilight said to the manager she had important business to talk with Talon, and was granted permission to come in while he was on his break.

“We’d like to talk with you, Talon-Ted.” said Twilight “And as princess of friendship, I insist on it.” her friends supported her. Talon sighed irritably, “Look, I know what my sister’s trying to do and I can assure you that you’re wasting your time. I have no interest in becoming an actor or celebrity.”

“But why ever not…?” Rarity asked “We’ve seen just a little of your skill already and you could be the greatest star in all of Equestria.”

“Yeah, isn’t it your dream to be a superstar?” asked Rainbow “That’s what Ath-Lita told us.”

Talon sighed and rolled his eyes. “My sis may be great at sports and all that stuff, but she’s also the world’s foremost expert on ignoring everything you say, and caring only for herself!”

The others all felt that sounded harsh, but strange at the same time.

Suddenly, a magical letter appeared right before.

He sighed irritably as he read the envelope, “Another invitation from Canterlot Players.”

Rarity’s eyes lit up like the sun, “Canterlot… Players! Why that’s only the most prestigious, most elegant, most inspiring guild of performances in all of Equestria!”

Twilight and Spike remembered going there, during Twilight’s time in Canterlot before coming to Ponyville. They loved the performances and the plays, and were even permitted backstage at times to meet the actors in person, and even get their autographs.

“I can’t believe they sent you an invitation!” cried Twilight.

Talon gazed grimly at the envelope, not even bothering to open it. “Actually this isn’t the first time they’ve done it, and not the first time either I’ve done this…!” and he softly but fiercely tore up the letter into pieces, making the gang gasp and Rarity faint in shock…

“I’ve told them more than enough times that I have no desire to join them, or any acting group.” said Talon.

“But why?” asked Twilight “Why would you want to throw away the chance of a lifetime?”

Talon could see he would have to explain; a story he had explained so many times it was boring him to death.

“I used to dream about being a famous actor. That’s why I practiced non-stop. I would watch performers and how they do it and try to copy them. I would memorize the transcripts perfectly, match their voices, and when I got to meet actors in person I would impress them with my own talents, and they told me… “You should be an actor.”

Unfortunately, I had a dream. I know that most actors required college degrees, or professional lessons, and some even needed to hold up a simple job in order to be accepted into these things.”

A moment of silence followed, “Well, yeah that’s the only way to get into these things now or days.” said Rainbow.”

“Is it!” snapped Talon “Well what about child actors? I don’t see their degrees, and I don’t them having to go through college. Sure they have a few lessons and stuff like that, but they got it easy.

So I felt I didn’t need any of that stuff. I was already talented enough, more than anything any school could teach me, but unfortunately the acting world proved to be horribly biased and full of bigotry.

No one would give me the chance simply because I lacked a degree and the backgrounds they wanted. Therefore" they wouldn't even give me a chance to audition, and just kicked me out.

I tried to protest and begged them to let me try; that my acting was good I could even surprise them-- No luck.

Yet, along came some other ponies with degrees, and they were welcomed in with open limbs. I would them audition, and their acting left much to be desired-- off note singing, lousy dancing, and the impressions-- oh they were so awful!!!

...Yet those ponies were instantly praised and given roles... simply for having a degree!!

Never had I seen such ridiculousness, and yet it seemed to rule over all.

No Degree...
...No Entry!

My sister began to detest the way I approaching things and insisted that I go to school and do things “The Right Way” as she put it. "Get that Degree." she demanded "Stop being such a pathetic disgrace!"

My own sister, just as bigoted as all the rest, and now here she was telling me to forget myself and become just like all the rest.

I tried and I tried to explain to her, but she wouldn’t hear of it, and she ended up signing me in for acting college, and I had no right to refuse… or she threatened to beat me with a bat.

So I went in, and as expected, I didn’t need their training, I was already a big hit and became the top student in class… simply from what I learned by teaching myself.

Classes were still expensive, so I took up a job as a shipper on loading docks to pay for it.

I graduated early and got that ridiculous degree everyone kept preaching to me about.

That's when all the doors to the acing world finally opened before me; the agents were finally willing to give me the time of day, and offers were pouring in like crazy, even though I hadn't even auditioned.

My answer was "No!" to all them!!

…No surprises, they were shocked and appalled that I refused every single offer given to me!

I told them that I was angry; angry with them, with my sister, and with the entire acting community, for making me go against my pride. I wanted to prove to the world that you didn’t need a degree or such things like a job or professional lessons to get into the business.

Now that I actually have a degree, there’s no way I can prove that! If I were to audition and accept roles, it would mean becoming just like they were-- bigoted, biased, and extremely hypocritical. Ponies would laugh at me behind my back.

What?! NOW... I was suddenly good enough for them... just because I had some ridiculous piece of paper?! I wouldn't, I couldn't... become one of them, and hurt my pride all the more.

So, I gave up on becoming an actor all together; continuously rejecting any and all offers thrown my way. Of course along the way I had that accident and broke my back legs for a while, but they gave me a huge cash settlement and I healed, so I don’t really need to be an actor anymore.”

The rest was pretty much history. The others could tell that ever since, all Talon ever did was work as a docks loaders and then return home to do nothing but laze about, or act and dance every now and then.

“I.. de… urgh!” Rarity choked on her words and felt like her brain was going to explode from what she had just heard. “I’ve never heard such nonsense!”

The others were inclined to agree; giving up on something so good that could make so many happy because of self-pride?! “That is my decision!” said Talon, “And the last thing I need is more ponies like you telling me what I should be doing.

Now, if you'll excuse me, my break is over. I have to get back to work."

Twilight refused to let something like this go. “Talon, listen to me. You need to understand, you’re just making things hard for yourself and for those who care about you.”

Talon was finding it harder to maintain his temper. “All right, Princess," he said looking her deep in the eye, "If you think it's so wonderful, YOU get a degree, and then YOU become a huge celebrity that way.

...BUT GET OFF ME!!"

With that, he stormed off leaving Twilight and friends aghast.

"How rude!" sneered Rarity.

"What a jerk!" added Rainbow "We're just trying to help him, and I balks at us like that."

Twilight felt just as upset about it too, but she still wasn't willing to give in. "Come on, gang. We've got thinking to do."

Act 3: Inconsiderate Consideration

ACT THREE

Ath-Lita did well in her track practice, she was thinking about her brother and his stubbornness, which fueled her anger and rage at him and allowed her to run faster and jump incredible heights. “Talon!” she grumbled, and all she could picture was herself beating him up and abusing him until he would comply with her demands that he pull himself upright and make the right decision!

Her coach of course, not knowing the reason behind this, was actually pleased with her progress. “You keep this up; you’ll be a fine champion, Lita.”

“Thanks, coach.” panted Lita, and she went to her gym-bag for her towel and water-bottle, when Twilight and her gang came along, and you can bet when they told her the way Talon behaved, her eyes lit up like a burning torch. “That overbearing stubborn old mule!” she growled.

Rarity took great offense to that, “Please, kindly refrain from using that word. It’s so horrible.”

“She wasn’t saying it to you.” Rainbow muttered.

Lita sulked as she sagged down onto the bench, “I can’t believe he used his pride as an excuse again! Why can’t he understand?”

“Um, actually he said he does understand; he just doesn’t care.” said Spike.

Whether she heard him or not, Lita felt angrier than ever. “When I get hold of him, I’ll…!”

“Uh… I think maybe we should think of some other way than violence and torture.” said Twilight “To be honest, that could be part of the reason why he turns offers down. Maybe you’re putting too much pressure on him.”

“Yeah, like you did when you forced him to get his degree.” Rainbow pointed out.

“Rainbow!” sneered Twilight, “No, she’s right.” said Lita “Maybe I am a bit harsh, but I can’t stand it; the way he acts so proud and makes himself such a burden all the time. He blames every-pony else for his problems except himself.”

“I really think…” Spike cut in “Maybe he just has to find out what he’s been missing out on.”

A long moment of silence followed, and Rarity never felt so inspired before. “That just may work, Spike.”

Even Twilight agreed, “It could help, but how would we do it.”

“I remember one time,” said Rainbow “Mom and Dad took me to my first ever Wonderbolts show. At first I didn’t want to go, thinking it would be boring. So they tricked and instead set me up to meet them there, and when the show started, it was the most magical thing I ever saw.”

Rainbow sighed softly as she gazed off into space, but all this gave Twilight a great idea, “We can organize a charity theatrical production, to raise money for the poor. No one can say no to that.”

“I can think of one who might.” muttered Lita.

Indeed, when the gang went to Talon-Ted’s house that he shared with his sister. He was sitting about reading a book of a play he always hoped he would star in, but put it behind him.

“No!” he said at the proposal, “I refuse completely, and that is final!”

Lita growled furiously and wanted to lunge over and attack, “I’ll show you what’s final. Just wait until I...!” Rainbow held her back, but Lita’s attitude proved Talon right, she really was an abusive control freak at times.

Talon sighed, “I might’ve known you had something to do with this, sis. When are you going to get it into your head... You cannot tell me how to live my life!”

“Actually, it was our idea.” Twilight said, “And I can’t believe you. It’s event that can benefit every pony in Ponyville, even yourself.”

Talon scoffed, “Do you sense the part where I sound the least bit interested?”

Everyone else felt very insulted.

“Look, I thought I made it perfectly clear that I don’t want to go against my pride. I don’t want to be an actor, and to be honest, the way you’re all pressuring me like this… I think you’re being selfish and inconsiderate!”

A moment of silence followed. “Selfish? You think I’m being selfish?” sneered Lita.

Her brother growled, having told his sister this many times before but she refused to listen, but in the view of their guests he came out clean, “You wanted me to go to college because YOU wanted that, even though I told you exactly one-hundred times that I didn’t want to.

And now, look at you, pressuring me all these years into taking up a place that I don’t want, just because YOU don’t want me to waste potential! It’s all about what YOU want, Lita, and if I don't comply, you try to beat me up!”

Even Twilight was growing cross at this point, but before she could say anything, he had thrown them all out of his bedroom and shut the door, locking it.

Much as Twilight could have picked the lock or teleported right in, she stomped her foot in frustration! “I cannot believe him!” she sneered “A chance to help others, as well as himself and he turned it down!”

“Welcome to my world.” said Lita “I have to put up with stubborn attitude every single day!”

“Well, so much for the idea.” said Spike.

“Oh, I wouldn’t say that, Spike.” Rainbow cut in, and she huddled everyone around to explain her idea. The plan would still go on, just without Talon knowing about it.

“I don’t think it’ll work.” said Lita “I know my bro. He may not look like it but he’s pretty clever at times.”

Ignoring the possibilities, the gang decided to go ahead with their plans.

Within a week, rather than putting up posters or a news ad in the papers, Twilight and Spike made invitations and handed them out to every single pony Ponyville, telling them about the charity play they were throwing, but it was to be held in secret with no one watching close by. All ponies were told to remain away from the stage area but stay close enough to see what would be happening.

As weird and as strange as every-pony thought that, they couldn’t resist, especially considering what play would be done; The Phantom of the Stage! One of the most classical and romantic plays that ponies had ever known, and even had some darkness thrown into it.

The stage was being built, and Rarity was in charge of the costumes, a job she truly took pride in.

As the weeks passed, and things were set up, the cast was selected, though Talon’s role as The Phantom; a role he had always wanted, was held blank, and merely written as a surprise guest star.

All was to be held at Sweet Apple Acres, where there was plenty of room to set everyone up and so everyone invited could remain in hiding but still be able to see and hear everything.

Talon of course still knew nothing of what was going on… until one day, about three weeks later, the night before the performance was to take place…

As Talon was finishing up his shift at the loading dock, he noticed the couple of the other loaders were chattering. He couldn’t hear about the play, and his co-workers suddenly saw him and quickly changed the subject.

“So um… we’re going bowling tomorrow night, right?”

“Yeah, we are, I’d rather go bowling than to some dopey play or anything.”

“So I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

“Yeah, tomorrow night…”

As soon as one of the co-workers left, Talon approached the other one and said “Coin Slot… That performance by the two of you was terrible!”

“I don’t know, I thought I was pretty good.” replied Coin Slot, “Er… I mean… Oh!”

Talon nodded his head suspiciously, “Coin Slot, what’s really going on?”

“I can’t tell. I promised I wouldn’t.”

“Uh… how about if I cover your shifts tomorrow…?”

Unable to argue with a day off at his hoofs, Coin Slot confessed everything, “…It’s all a plan to get you to come out of your shell. I was just going for the show.”

Talon nodded and patted Coin’s shoulder, “I like your style… it’s honest. Now if you’ll excuse me, I some work to do.”

“What, but we’re off shift.”

“Not that kind of work.”

As Talon walked off, “So, they just can’t take a hint.” he muttered himself “They want me to perform for them? Well, I’ll give them a performance they’ll never forget!”

And as he walked along, he imagined himself in a musical number. He was a criminal mastermind, surrounded by men in suits as his gang, and they sang a song… while also acting out a small scene…

The point was, Talon was prepared to teach everyone coming to the play a lesson about pushing him, especially his sister and Twilight Sparkle!

Act 4: Pride and Performance

ACT FOUR

The big night came, the stage was already prepped and ready, and the cast had already gone over their lines. As for the audience, they arrived as planned and made their donations, but as they were instructed, they hid will out of sight within the fields, but they could still see and hear everything that was about to happen.

Applejack and her family were invited to do some stage work, and Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy were taking donations. “Wow, we’ve risen so much already!” cried Pinkie as she showed Twilight the balance, and she was surprised, “Some pony pledged one-thousand bits?!”

Everyone huddled around to see. That one donation alone was enough to help many starving ponies, but whoever it was didn’t leave their name. “Whoever did this must be the most generous pony ever.” said Fluttershy.

Soon with was time for everyone to take their places for the play to begin. “Oh, the stars look so elegant!” Rarity cried as she gazed at the actors in all the beautiful outfits she had made for them.

“Just one thing though…” Applejack pointed out, “What are we gonna do about the main star. Ya know, you-know-who?”

“Oh, he’ll be here.” said Spike “Rainbow Dash and Ath-Lita have that covered.”

Talon-Ted was just coming home after a long day at work, especially covering two shifts. “What a day!” he groaned “It’s great to be home again.”

He also noticed that Ponyville seemed to be rather quiet for this time of the night. “Where is every-pony?” he wondered.

Suddenly, he was tapped from behind with a baseball bat and knocked unconscious, and then he was placed in a burlap sack by Rainbow Dash.

“Did you really have to hit him so hard?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh, it was just a little tap. He’ll be fine.” said Lita “Just go, get him to the show. I’ll see you there.”

Rainbow took off, and soon she was at the grounds. The play had already started, just as Talon began to awaken. “What’s going on!” he thundered.

“Shh!” snapped Twilight “It’s a play rehearsal; their doing The Phantom of the Stage.”

Hearing the name of the play did spark his interest, slightly. “Wait a minute! What’s all this about?”

That’s when some of the actors who weren’t on stage approached him. Some of which Talon remembered form acting school…

“Curtain Call…! Spot Light…! Star glow?”

His former classmates nodded at him, and expressed their apologies.

“We’re rehearsing for our big production for Canterlot Players, but our lead performer called in ill.”

“We were hoping at least you could take his place, just for tonight.”

“We’re sure he’ll be well to help us by then, but we do want to practice tonight. Please… please Talon. You’re the only one who can help us.”

The others agreed, and insisted he do it.

Talon never felt so irritated in his life. “You just never give up, do you?” he said. “Fine…! I’ll do this, just this once, since this isn’t some big show or anything.”

Everyone was overjoyed, and soon Talon was dressed up and performing on stage with them all. The best part of the show was when he sang the show’s most special song, “Music of the Night.”

That song was so touching, many of the ponies cried softly.

By the end of the show, there was a loud noise that sounded like wind over the fields, only, it wasn’t the wind at all, but the sound of an applauding audience that came rushing over the hills, praising the cast for a stupendous performance, especially towards Talon-Ted.

Many were even throwing roses at him, some even threw money, and the best of it all was some ponies, whom were agents and producers that’s Twilight had personally invited. Many of them gave Talon many offers to consider.

“You’re the most talented Pony we’ve ever heard.”

“Please come and star in our movie.”

“We’re looking for a star. You’d be perfect.”

Talon seemed rather excited, but he still acted uncertain if whether or not he should take any of them. “Oh, come on!” snarled Ath-Lita “How can you not accept, after everything every-pony has seen you become.”

Twilight and her gang agreed as well.

“The reason is simple…” Some-pony said. Everyone turned and saw someone standing in the shadows by the curtain, “Because he’s not who you think he is.” The pony said, and he stepped forth revealing himself to be Talon-Ted.

Everyone gasped, and the crowds and producers were in shock! That’s when the other pony removed a latex mask to reveal himself as a pony named Spotlight. He was another classmate from acting school and an aspiring actor. He had great talent, but sadly he was rejected from the school as the professors felt he didn’t meet their standards and expectations.

Talon knew he was very talented, and decided to help him get some well-deserved recognition and payback. So he paid him to help him in his scheme, and paid a makeup artist to make him look just like Talon. Spotlight was easily able to fool everyone with his vocal talents, and Talon had coached him on just what to say.

Many of the ponies were now outraged! “I can’t believe you!” said Twilight “You tricked us!” added Rarity.

“Kind of like the way you all tried to trick me I suppose!” sneered Talon. Everyone fell silent. Talon did not let it slide that he learned this from Coin Case as he was trying to protect a friend.

“I don’t get it!” said Lita “How… why would you do all this, after everything we tried to do for you. I care for you, and I wanted you to be happy!”

Talon glared at his sister. “You wanted…” he said in a deep dark voice “You wanted… it was always about what YOU wanted. That’s exactly why I did this, Ath-Lita, to finally stand up to you and all the rest of the bigots and ignoramus from controlling the industry of acting!"

More gasps followed and many felt insulted.

Pinkie Pie tried to break up the squabble “Aw, come on. There’s no need to be angry. We’re all friends here.” But this only earned her a fierce snarl from Talon. “Or, maybe not…!” Pinkie whimpered as she slithered sheepishly away.

Talon then narrowed his eyes at his sister, “I’m angry that none of you listen to me! You claim to be helping me, but are so incredibly selfish! I wanted to do things my way- MY way-- not yours…!

I was already skilled and talented without the degree, and I could’ve been just as successful without it too.

l could have proved there’s more than one way to get the job done, and give others who struggle more home. Who knows, maybe I could have been a pioneer and improved the acting industry...

...More actors could be born simply by being given the right chances and a fair play at a shot, instead of having to always do it the way others tell them too.

But noooooo… It always had to be what YOU wanted, what made YOU happy!

And if I refused to go along with you, you beat me senselessly with your sporting gear."

Many gasps were heard, and eyes were focusing on Ath-Lita.

Someone in the audience then recognized her. "I remember you now... you're that angry pony from grade school who pushed me in the mud because I didn't pass you the basketball, even though we won the game."

Another pony recognized her, "I was delayed in helping you seek out a sports team to join, and you threateningly pointed a baseball at me, forcing me to change my entire schedule."

Even Twilight and friends were horrified to hear this, especially the way Ath-Lita began to tremble with worry and fear, further incriminating herself.

"You're nothing but a low-down blackmailing bully, sis-- caring for no one's satisfaction but your own. People either have to do as YOU tell them, or they get beat up, and even when they tried their hardest, you still threw a tantrum like a wild pony and got your bat, and beat them up!

You claimed you were trying to help me get my dream job out of concern, when really you were only thinking about how it would affect your own public image and your own satisfaction!

You're not showing love and care, you're showing selfishness, mental instability as well as a lust for power and control!

While admittedly, I showed a little of it myself, but I had an excuse far greater than an overbearing bully like you would ever understand! I was trying to stand for Freedom and Rights, while you were opposed to this like some kind of war dictating sadist!"

Ath-Lita finally snapped, and she began to charge at her brother roaring like a maniac, "I'LL KILL YOU FOR THIS!!" and she really looked ready to tackle him to the ground and lay waste to him... had Twilight not levitated her up high.

"ENOUGH!!" she thundered. Finally fed up with Ath-Lita's true colors.

Still, everyone was just as mad at Talon for his own attitude.

“We were trying to help you see the fault of your ways." insisted Rainbow. "You had so many great opportunities, and you could have made your life better, but you were missing out on!”

Talon looked ready to flip out as well. "Weren't you listening to anything I just said? Oh, of course you weren't, because you're just as bigoted and as stupid as the rest."

More gasps followed.

One of the producers tried to explain to Talon, “Sir, we did ask for you to join us, but you rejected every single time and why… simply because you have a degree in dramatic arts. I’d say it is you whom is selfish.”

"Aha!" snapped Talon "Further proof and perfect illustration of my point."

The producer stammered and tried to come up with an excuse. "Well... er... it's just-- It's just the way it's been! We prefer to seek Talented Poneis with Degrees as proof of their gifts and skills. They are the ones truly deserving!"

“But wait a moment…" protested Spotlight "I don’t have a degree. I don’t have any fancy training, and yet just a moment ago you were amazed by my skills and talents, which you judged by actually viewing, and you were willing to give me the chances you never gave Talon.

Matter of fact, I tried to audition, but just like Talon, I was denied even a chance because I had no degree.

If you know I had no degree, you would've just kicked me out into, just like you did Talon many times.”

The judge and producers, finally exposed as the bigoted scoundrels they were, felt every eye in the field squarely focused on the.

"What?!" snapped the judge "It's simple common sense."

"No sir..." insisted Twilight. She finally began to see Talon's point of view. "What you imply is neither common sense or good judgment, especially when you don't give ponies a chance. Every-pony deserves a fair shot, regardless of who you think does or doesn't."

Many ponies in the crowd cheered her on for that, and Talon felt very pleased.

“Looks like I proved my point.” said Talon “I never needed any silly degree. Talent isn’t written on a piece of paper, it’s what you have inside that counts.

All I needed and wanted was a chance, and I never got it because you were all too formal and too pushy. It always had to be done your way.

I wanted to be an actor WITHOUT getting a degree, and without fancy training.

I wanted to prove there were other ways to get there, but because you all forced me against my pride, and made me get a degree... what else was I supposed to do?

I HAD to reject offers when I got it, or I would’ve become a hypocrite, a laughing-stock. I’d have become the very thing I was scoffing at! Nobody wants a reputation or thoughts like that plaguing them. Would you like it people talked like that about YOU behind your back?”

Now feeling convinced, Talon walked off, but Ath-Lita was still really upset, “So you’re saying you want to keep being a burden all your life huh? Fine, see if I care. I don’t want any part of your sloth and misery anymore…You selfish loser!”

Talon stopped dead in his tracks. This was the last straw! His sister refused to listen to anything that was said to her, so he knew exactly what to tell her, “You call me "Slothful?" Why just because I don't get the job you want me to have? Even though I had job that did help the community and I still paid bills and taxes.

I did try to become an actor, but nobody gave me the chance out of bigotry, and you have the gall, the absolute nerve to call me "A Sloth."

No, Ath-lita, you're just proving that it's YOU who's the selfish loser, not me."

The others realized that was true. His job, as small as it was seemed pretty useful to help parcels and shipments make it to their destinations.

Talon then continued, "You think a selfish pony would donate one-thousand bits to a charity like yours?"

Everyone gasped again. “Talon donated the money?” asked Fluttershy.

“That’s right,” replied Talon “And that money came from my work at the loading dock, not from my cash settlement. True, I donated the money as part of spite for my sister and to help expose the bigotry in the industry, but what difference does it make. the whole point of a charity is to get money, not to judge the doner for their lifestyle!

But I guess that's just not good enough for you. To you, I'm just selfish, slothful, and a burden, and it's all because you can't stand it when others don't do things your way worse than I ever do.

You’re going to have a long time to think about that, Lita, but while you're at it... think about what else is coming your way.” he motioned at all the angry ponies who were glaring furiously at her; now seeing her for the disgusting, heartless, bullying criminal she really was.

Even Twilight herself was not willing to let her off the hook.

Author's Note

People say he rescinded his donation, but he never did. It doesn't matter if it's implied... implications don't equal fact

Final Act: Bust or Not Bust

FINAL ACT

News of the performance and the aftermath struck all over Equestria and affected things majorly, especially the acting agencies and movie productions. They were forced now to give more ponies a chance and let go of their biased habits of rejecting those with no degree.

Princess Twilight was quite right: "Every pony deserved a fair chance."

It would also mean, more ponies could realize their dreams, and the productions would have more luck in finding gifted actors they needed.

Spotlight, despite still not having his degree or proper training in acting was still offered jobs from acting agencies and was well on his way to becoming a top-star actor, all thanks to Talon’s actions.

Talon was neither looked down upon nor treated differently by others, but he was still very upset for his sister, what she and Princess Twilight and her friends had tried to do, but most of all for being called selfish and slothful despite his kind donation and his hard work at the loading docks.

He was especially angry with her for all the times she whipped, battered, and beat him senselessly.

He wasn't the only one either...

Loads of ponies, especially those whom were threatened and/or beaten up by her in the past finally had their fill, and were planning to throw the book at her hard.

She was charged for...

-Assault...
-Battery...
-Blackmail...
-As well as Conspiracy...

All this would have had her thrown in jail for at least twenty-five years, but she got lucky; Princess Twilight managed to convince the courts that Ath-Lita needed more professional help to control her rage and anger; much more than she and her friendship lessons could do.

So Ath-Lita was sentenced to three years probation, and during that time she was instructed to get psychiatric help for her instability.

Sad to say, this did not help her dreams and goals. She was kicked off her sports team; they no longer wished to have a rude and angry pony, and her bad reputation was alerted to other sports teams and official leagues.

It would no be a miracle if she could ever make her dreams of being a professional athlete come to pass.

Talon found it super hard to feel any real sympathy for his sister; feeling more she was being justifiably punished for her ways and the trouble she caused him and others before.

Still, he had his pride and he had proven what he always wanted to thanks to Spotlights new fame, which was all from his actions. Thanks to that, many new aspiring actors had better chances of getting into the business.

With that settled, he no longer had shame of losing his pride, and finally accepted an offer from an agency in Fillydelphia. He had many other offers to take up after which and would be away from home for a long time, which suited him just well.

He no longer was willing to put with his sister's bad behaviour, and felt she, too, would need time by herself to wake up and realize her faults...

…but he promised to support her by sending her money from what he would earn, as well as leaving her a good sum of his cash settlement.

“YOU!!!” yelled Ath-lita. "You ruined my life! You dashed all my dreams, and now I've been publicly humiliated and labeled!"

"No, sis..." protested Talon "You brought this on yourself, and you're only making it worse by not admitting to it.

Until you straighten yourself out, and realize you don't have all the answers, it's best we not see each other anymore. It'll give you time think, as well as plan out what to do with yourself."

Then he began to walk off to catch a train to his new life, but he stopped a moment and looked pitifully at Twilight. “By the way, Princess… this came in my mail for you.” he said handing Twilight a letter from Princess Celestia.

Twilight Sparkle…

I am very disappointed in what you and your friends have caused-- aiding and being an accessory to a conspiracy.

While I understand that your intentions were pure and you did raise a good sum of money for charity, your behavior was very unprofessional and uncalled for; forcing a pony to accept your views was nothing less than appalling.

We are going to have a long talk about this, we and your friends when you return to the palace.

…Princess Celestia!

Twilight shuddered. The Princess only left out “Dear…” and “your caring teacher” when she was really upset with her.

Talon got a letter from the princess as well, expressing that she was pleased for having shown everyone new ways to accomplish tasks, but she was appalled by his temper as well.

Talon took it well though, “I suppose I am a bit of a temperamental guy, but then again none of us is perfect.” that was all he said before leaving to catch his train “Have good one.” he called to everyone.

“Brother…” cried Lita. She bowed her head and began to cry. The others all comforted her, but really not one of them knew what to say or do.

All that had happened over the past weeks, what or who was more right and what or who was wrong? It seemed both ways seemed to have good and bad points, but in the end, while Talon finally got his dream to be a real actor, the two siblings did not make up, which was pretty much the whole point of the entire friendship mission… which was a total flop!

“Well, we did raise lots of money for Charity.” said Fluttershy.

“Yeah, and we did help the guy find his way to his dream.” added Rainbow.

Despite these facts, Twilight didn’t feel any perkier, “I guess there’s one lesson we all learned: That a true friend would be understanding, and listen to what someone wants, rather than enforcing their beliefs and their ways on you…

Badgering and pushing someone can only cause more harm than help.”

Everyone was inclined to agree.

The mission was a bust, but the lessons were strong!