Two's Company, Three's a Crowd

by Lithe Kamitatsy

Chapter Sixty Six

Vinyl shifted in her seat, trying to get comfortable. Five more minutes… she thought. She hadn’t slept much after what happened the night previous with Allegretto’s abrupt return into her father’s life and the excitement of the wedding.

Wait.... what time is it? she wondered, her eyes shooting open. She quickly sat up, looking at the clock, which read six o’clock. She blinked her eyes a few times, rubbing them as she trotted over to Octavia’s bed.

Octavia was fast asleep, resting as comfortably on her side as her belly would allow. Vinyl leaned forward, gently brushing a few errant locks of Octavia’s mane out of her face, planting a kiss on her forehead.

“Octy, time to wake up,” Vinyl said softly, gently caressing her foreleg. Octavia shifted, her eyes fluttering open as she took in the sight of her soon-to-be wife leaning over the bedrail.

“Morning…” Octavia said softly.

“Today’s the day,” Vinyl said.

“It is… it really is…” Octavia smiled, slowly sitting up and sharing a kiss with Vinyl. The tender moment was interrupted by the doctor entering the room not a few seconds later, folder and release forms in hoof.

“Morning you two, I hope Octavia’s feeling rested and ready for today?” the doctor asked.

“I am, Doctor. Thank you for all your help,” Octavia said.

“Yeah, thanks Doc,” Vinyl said, expressing her appreciation.

“Very good. Just sign these forms and you’ll be good to go. Your parents were just arriving as I walked in so they should be-” the doctor was interrupted as Kester made his entrance, barging in as usual.

“Rise an’ shine, ev’rypony! Ma’ baby’s gettin’ married today!” he exclaimed, a grand smile on his face.

“Papa… please… your voice… it’s too early,” Octavia winced. Vinyl would have responded if not for the ringing in her ears.

“Wha’? A’ can’t be excited for yer weddin’?” Kester questioned.

“That’s not it at all, dear. It’s just that it’s six in the morning and you’re speaking like you’re in a pub,” Madeline said, entering after him, followed close behind Marianna and Rolando.

“Good morning, everypony!” Marianna said cheerily. Rolando gave a heavy yawn, a weary expression adorning his face.

“Dad… are you okay? You look like you didn’t sleep,” Vinyl said.

“I am quite”—Rolando gave a heavy yawn—“Fine,” he said, finishing his sentence. “We shall just say it was from the excitement. My little filly is getting married today after all,” he said with a small smile. Vinyl raised an eyebrow, but chose not to ask any further questions. After everything that had occurred the night previous, the last thing she needed was to cause Octavia any undue stress. The doctor then cleared his throat, grabbing everypony’s attention.

“Now that I have you all present, I’m going to repeat to you what I said to Vinyl last night; the only reason that I am discharging her at this point is on the condition that I am present for the entire event and I have the express directive to stop the event should Octavia show any signs of physical distress. Am I understood?” the doctor stated firmly. The ponies nodded in agreement, and the doctor hoofed over the paperwork to Octavia’s mother. “Just sign the paperwork and I’ll have a wheelchair sent as soon as possible.”

“Very good, thank you,” Madeline said, signing the paperwork and returning them to the doctor.

“Excellent, I’ll see you all at the ceremony,” the doctor said, turning to leave. “Oh, and congratulations you two.”

“Thank you,” Octavia said.

“Thanks!” Vinyl expressed.

The doctor excused himself, Madeline turning to the younger mares.

“Okay, now, where are you two getting ready?” Madeline questioned.

“Rarity offered her Boutique for me,” Octavia said, shifting to get comfortable.

“I’ll be going to Sweet Apple Acres,” Vinyl stated.

“Excellent. I would imagine the others are already up?” Marianna asked.

“I would hope so,” Octavia said.

“Do ye’ need me ta wake up tha’ whole town? A’ll do it and do it with pride,” Kester offered, puffing out his chest.

“While I truly appreciate the gesture Papa, we have only been living here for a short while. I would prefer to keep it that way,” Octavia said. Vinyl then leaned over to Kester, discreetly slipping him the keys to their house.

“This never happened,” Vinyl whispered.

“Aye… A’ knew A’ liked ye’ for a reason,” Kester whispered in return, giving a wink. “A’ think A’m goin’ ta go back to th’ apartment. Gotta get all o’ this lookin’ good,” he said, sweeping a hoof around his face.

“Of course, because Celestia knows you need to find a mare at your daughter’s wedding,” Madeline said, rolling her eyes.

“A’m no’ doin’ it fer anypony but me,” Kester retorted, trying to mimic a fashion model’s expression and failing miserably. “Am A’ doin’ it right?”

“Oh yes, simply splendid,” Madeline lied through her teeth.

“Heh, A’ still go’ it,” Kester said, proud of himself as he trotted out. Madeline watched him go, shaking her head.

“I do ever so love that stallion…” Madeline said with a tired expression. “We will see you at the Boutique later,” she said, trotting over to her daughter and giving her a kiss on the cheek.

“We will see you both later, Vincenza. You said to go to ‘Sweet Apple Acres’?” Marianna asked.

“Yup, that’s the place,” Vinyl said.

“Very good dear. We shall see you then,” Rolando said, giving his daughter a kiss on the forehead, exiting with Marianna in tow. The two mares found themselves alone, each of them giving a sigh.

“I can already tell this is going to be a long day, and it has barely started yet…” Octavia said.

“Yeah… tell me about it,” Vinyl sighed. “It kinda sucks we’re not gonna really be able to see or talk to each other until the ceremony,” she said softly, a small tone of sadness in her voice.

“It does, yes…” Octavia affirmed. Since the two of them had begun living together, they had not been apart from one another for longer than it took to do groceries or run errands, and more often than not they even did that together. Where one was, the other was close by. Even at their performances Vinyl was either asleep in the audience or Octavia covering her ears as she sat behind the turntables. “Well, I know one thing is for sure,” she said.

“What’s that, Octy?”

“I am really excited to see you in your dress…” Octavia said demurely, to which Vinyl couldn’t help but smile.

“Me too, Octy.” The door opened, and a nurse entered with a wheelchair.

“Miss Octavia? We’re ready for you!” the nurse said.

“Excellent,” Octavia said, shifting herself into a position to get out of bed. Vinyl assisted her off the bed and into the wheelchair, wheeling her into the elevator. They rode down to the bottom floor, and exited the hospital. The cool, spring air still carried the remnants of winter’s icy chill but also carried the scent of flowers in bloom. “I love this time of year…” she said softly.

“Yeah…” Vinyl said, the two taking the time to watch as Celestia’s sun begin to peek out over the horizon as they made their way to the Boutique.

---

The pair arrived at Rarity’s boutique, seeing the lights were already on. They knocked at the door and patiently waited, hearing the sounds of multiple ponies milling about within. A moment later, Rarity emerged, her mane in curlers and face devoid of makeup.

“Good morning you two and congratulations!” Rarity exclaimed with glee.

“Thank you Rarity,” Octavia said graciously.

“Octavia darling, why are you in a wheelchair…?” Rarity asked, eyeing the hospital bracelet around Octavia’s fetlock. “My stars, did you just get released from the hospital!?” she said loudly, causing all movement within the Boutique to stop. A multitude of mares stuck their heads out of the doorway, the likes of which being Lyra, Fluttershy, Twilight and Trixie, all of whom were in the process of getting themselves ready.

“Yeah, it was just a false alarm though,” Vinyl explained. “She started having contractions but they went away pretty quick.”

“That worries me a bit Octavia,” Twilight said, pushing her way to the front. “Are you sure you’re feeling okay enough to go through with the ceremony?”

“Well, I am feeling the slightest bit tired, but I think that is just from all the excitement from yesterday. Aside from that I feel fine,” Octavia explained. “The doctor will also be present so if something goes awry he will be able to tend to me. He only allowed me out of the hospital if he could be present.”

“No need to worry Twilight, she’s a-okay. We don’t need you stressing out either,” Vinyl smirked. “Heck, you’re even starting to show a bit!”

“I am!?” Twilight said, examining herself. Her belly had grown just the slightest bit, virtually undetectable by passing glance.

“Relax, you look fine,” Trixie said, sidling up to Twilight.

“Thank goodness you altered my dress a while back, Rarity…” Twilight said, Trixie’s presence putting her at ease.

“Too true darling,” Rarity affirmed.

“Um… I hate to interrupt but we still need to get ready…” Fluttershy said.

“Yeah, we need to get Octavia showered. Vinyl, you should head over to Applejack’s, Bonbon’s already there.” Lyra said.

“Okay, great. I’ll see you later Octy,” Vinyl said.

“Okay,” Octavia said. The two shared a quick kiss, Vinyl turning and leaving, albeit with a heavy heart.

She’ll be fine… no need to worry, Vinyl thought to herself. She’s surrounded by all of her friends. If something happens, they’ll be able to help her. Just keep it cool.

---

With Vinyl on her way to Applejack’s, Octavia felt something was missing. She knew that it would only be a few hours before she would see Vinyl again, but her presence was still missed.

“Before we do anything else, let’s get this hospital band off your foreleg,” Rarity said, summoning a pair of scissors over to her with her magic. She quickly and expertly cut the band, tossing it in the trash. “Done,” Rarity chirped.

“Alright Octavia, let’s get you in the shower,” Lyra said. “If you want I can help you,” she offered.

“Thank you Lyra, I appreciate the offer, but I think I will be fine on my own,” Octavia said. “If you could just help me get up I can manage the rest of the way.”

“Okay, sure,” Lyra said. She trotted around behind the wheelchair, holding it in place as Octavia lifted herself out. Slowly but surely Octavia made it to her hooves, feeling her joints popping as they reaccomodated themselves to her weight.

“I apologize if I am moving a little more slowly than expected,” Octavia apologized.

“Oh, think nothing of it darling, we all made sure we took showers prior to you coming over so the shower would be free for you,” Rarity said as she stared into a mirror, applying her trademark eye shadow.

“Do you need help getting into the shower?” Twilight offered.

“I can help too, um… if you need me to…” Fluttershy offered as well. Octavia couldn’t help but smile.

“I really appreciate all the help, everypony. I think I can manage, but it is very relieving to know I have you all to rely on,” Octavia said earnestly.

“Why, of course you do Octavia. We’re all friends here,” Rarity said with a wink. “Now go get showered so we can do your mane.” Octavia obliged, slowly cantering to the bathroom and finding a fresh set of towels and bath-soap ready for her. She slid the shower door open, finding a shower seat already inside, prepared for her. She gave a small smile and turned the water on, grabbing the soap and taking a seat as the heated water washed over her, a soothing warmth seeping into her coat down to her skin.

As she bathed, she allowed her mind to wander, imagining what life would be like beyond that day. She saw herself as an elderly mare, sitting beside Vinyl, the two enjoying each other’s company as the fireplace of their little home crackled in the background. This brought a smile to her face and a feeling of pure happiness in her heart.

She then rinsed off, turning off the water and drying herself off as best she could. She ran her hooves over the curvature of her belly, feeling at peace when she felt the hooves of her children return the touch. She exited the bathroom, returning to the main area where the other mares were waiting. Rarity looked over, letting out a gasp.

“Oh my, Octavia! You look positively radiant! Truly the look of an expectant mother,” Rarity exclaimed.

“Oh… thank you,” Octavia said with a slight blush.

“Come, come, let’s get started on your mane,” Rarity said, ushering Octavia over to the main mirror, sitting her down on the stool in front of it. Rarity ran her hooves through Octavia’s mane. “Your mane is like silk! I’m almost envious,” she giggled.

“Oh, I make sure to take care of it as much as possible… whereas Vinyl tends to just shake her head and it pops into place like rubber,” Octavia said.

“That doesn’t surprise me at all,” Lyra commented. “I’m kinda the same way. I mean sure, I brush it some, but for the most part it just kinda naturally sticks like this. It drives Bonbon nuts,” she laughed.

“So Octavia, is there anything I should expect in the coming months?” Twilight asked as she applied her mascara.

“Well, I would figure there would not be much advice I could give you based on the fact that you would have already studied up on the subject,” Octavia reasoned.

“While that’s true, every pregnancy is different, so I’m trying to account for any variables,” Twilight said.

“I would be happy to help then,” Octavia said. “For one, whatever weight you think you feel you will be gaining, double it. By the end of the day I am ready to remove my hooves by force if need be. I had morning sickness the first month or so but that seems to have gone away…” Twilight absentmindedly began taking notes as she listened to Octavia, a notepad and quill hovering nearby her head, scribbling everything down. Once Octavia had finished, Twilight went over her notes.

“These notes are super helpful,” Twilight said. “Thank you Octavia.”

“Anytime, Twilight.”

“Hey Twi, you think you can shoot me a copy of that? I wanna have it on hoof in case Bonbon needs it,” Lyra asked.

“Sure thing!” Twilight said.

“I’ve always wondered if I would be a good mother…” Fluttershy voiced.

“Why Fluttershy, you’re the most caring and nurturing of all of us, I daresay you’d be a phenomenal mother,” Rarity said.

“You really think so?” Fluttershy asked. The other mares all stopped what they were doing to look at Fluttershy, eyebrows raised. “Oh… okay…” she said, feeling awkward with so many eyes on her.

“Seriously though Fluttershy, I feel as though you would make for an excellent mother. You have already experienced the miracle of birth many times through the animals you tend to, so perhaps sometime in the future it will be your turn,” Octavia said.

“I hadn’t thought of that…” Fluttershy said, turning a slight shade of pink at the thought of having her own foal.

“What about you Rarity? Have you thought about it at all?” Trixie asked.

“What, and ruin this figure? Absolutely not!” Rarity huffed. “...At least, not yet.” She then caught the slightly worried expressions of both Octavia and Twilight. “That- that’s not to say that it will be impossible to fix, just that it will take a great deal of work to fix,” she said, trying her best not to make things worse. To her embarrassment, she failed.

“Gee, thanks Rarity…” Twilight said. Octavia merely hung her head in sadness.

“I think I’ll be quiet now…” Rarity said, going back to her makeup. The mares all continued to chat, doing their manes and readying themselves for the big day. The bridesmares all put on their dresses, assisting Octavia into hers. Once she was fully dressed, they all took a step back to take a look at her, finding themselves stunned into silence.

“You look absolutely beautiful, Octavia…” Lyra said, breathless. Octavia quietly trotted up to the mirror, seeing herself in her dress for the first time. She raised the veil, allowing herself a better view. Rarity had truly outdone herself. She had gotten every nuance of Octavia’s personality down to the last detail.

She raised a hoof, gently touching the amethyst gem that sat on her trademark bow-tie as she eyed the onyx quaver poised neatly beneath her left ear, representative of Vinyl’s cutie mark. The pristine white fabric of the dress seemed to almost glow in the early morning sunlight. The pony in the mirror almost looked like a porcelain doll, mane and tail combed and straightened to perfection, hooves shining a glossy, bright shine.

Octavia could hardly believe she was looking at herself. She felt her eyes well up, but refused to cry and let her makeup get ruined. She would let that happen later. She turned to Rarity, smiling widely.

“It is perfect. I could not have imagined a more beautiful dress,” Octavia said. Rarity dabbed her eyes with a hoofkerchief, thoroughly pleased with herself.

“Thank you darling, but your expression is more of a reward to me,” Rarity said.

“How do I look?” a small voice said from another room. In entered Spike, looking sharp in his brand new tuxedo, tailored specifically to his measurements.

“You look quite dashing Spike,” Octavia said. “A true filly-killer,” she said.

Spike merely grinned, looking himself over. “I do look pretty good…”

“Take it easy Casanova, don’t let it go to your head,” Twilight said. “I need your head in the game, Octavia has a special task for you.”

“I’ve got this,” Spike said coolly, walking over to Octavia. “Congratulations on your wedding, Octavia. You look beautiful.”

“Thank you very much, Spike. That means a lot coming from you,” Octavia said graciously. “Now, as Twilight said, I have something special in mind for you. Are you prepared for this?”

“You can count on me Octavia,” Spike said resolutely.

“Very good. I would like you to be my ring bearer, if you would be willing,” Octavia offered.

“Me? The ring bearer? What an honor! Of course I’ll do it!” Spike said.

“Thank you Spike, that will be a big help,” Octavia said.

“Why me, though?” Spike asked.

“Why not? You are a young, handsome dragon that has been nothing but an upstanding gentlecolt as long as I have known you. I think you deserve it,” Octavia said with a wink. “Rarity, be sure to give Spike the box with my ring as well as his instructions for the ceremony, please.”

“Of course, darling! No need to worry,” Rarity said with a small smile.

I wish Vinyl could see this… Octavia thought, watching the others as they finished getting ready. “Everything is coming together beautifully. I love how elegant your dresses are; the way it filters from white to violet is simply magnificent,” she said. “You never cease to impress, Rarity.”

“Oh stop Octavia, today is your day, not mine! Remember, this is my passion. I thoroughly enjoyed crafting these dresses. I can only imagine how beautiful Vinyl will look in hers,” Rarity said. “I’m also sure you’re dying to see her in it,” she winked. “Sweetie Belle, are you almost ready?”

“I’m ready, Rarity!” a small voice chimed from another room. In entered Sweetie Belle, her mane having been straightened down to her shoulders, just the slightest amount of eyeliner to bring out her olive green eyes. Spike whirled around, taking in the sight of Sweetie Belle. He felt his heart hitch in his chest, suddenly short of breath.

“W-Wow, Sweetie Belle… you look really pretty…” Spike said.

“Oh, um… thanks Spike… you look really nice too,” Sweetie Belle said, blushing at the praise. She looked back at him again. “Oh, your tie is a little crooked…” she said, trotting up to him. She reached forward, adjusting his tie to straighten it, causing Spike to internally short circuit, the scales on his face turning a deep shade of violet. Twilight leaned over to Trixie as the cute scene unfolded.

“I think Rarity just may have been dethroned…” Twilight whispered.

“I think so too,” Trixie giggled.

“You two are absolutely adorable together! I need to take a photo,” Rarity said, retrieving her camera and forcing them to stand together, the two smiling awkwardly as their picture was taken.

“Sweetie Belle, I have an important favor to ask of you,” Octavia said.

“What is it, Miss Octavia?” Sweetie Belle asked, cantering up to her.

“Would you be okay with walking down the aisle with Spike? I want the two of you to deliver my ring to the altar,” Octavia said.

“I’d love to!” Sweetie Belle squeaked happily.

“Thank you so much Sweetie Belle, and I must say you look absolutely darling,” Octavia said.

“Thanks, but you look much more beautiful today,” Sweetie Belle said. “Oh, and congratulations!”

“Thank you,” Octavia said graciously. “Now that everypony is ready, once my parents get here, we will all make our way to the chapel. Oh, and be prepared, my father may be a little… hard to manage,” Octavia said.

“I’m sure we can handle him, how difficult could it be?” Twilight said.

“Clearly you have yet to meet my father…”

“She’s not kidding you guys, I was stuck in their house with her and Vinyl’s parents for two days. They’re a trip let me tell you, especially when they’re all together,” Lyra said.

“Huh… well, I think we’ll be okay,” Trixie said.

“I will say it again; ‘Clearly you have yet to meet my father’.”

---

Vinyl arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, finding Big Macintosh already outside and hard at work.

“Morning, Mac!”

“Mornin’ Miss Vinyl,” Big Mac said as he pulled the till behind him.

“I thought you were gonna come to the wedding,” Vinyl said.

“Can’t. Gotta till the fields first,” Big Mac said plainly.

“Oh… but you’ll at least come to the reception, right?” Vinyl asked.

“Eeyup, once I’m done,” Big Mac assured.

“Okay, great! See you later then,” Vinyl said, content.

“Eeyup. Congrats,” Big Mac said with a small smile, tipping his head in her direction.

“Thanks,” Vinyl said. “Do I just go in through here or…?”

“Eeyup, right through there.”

“Okay, thanks.”

Vinyl pushed the front door open, seeing her own bridesmaids milling about as they got ready. Pinkie was the first to greet her as both Rainbow Dash and Applejack struggled to get her mane under control.

“Gooood morning, Scratchie! Are you excited?! I’m sure excited ‘cause today’s your wedding day!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed with more energy than Vinyl could comprehend.

“Yeeeah, super excited,” Vinyl said, wincing slightly at the sheer volume and pitch of Pinkie’s voice.

“C’mon Pinkie! Hold, still!” Rainbow Dash said as she tried to help keep Pinkie from moving while Applejack used her strength to move the comb through her mane.

“Jeez Pinkie, when was the last time ya did anything to yer mane?” Applejack asked, straining the comb against Pinkie’s mane, the stress causing it to crack and snap in two. “Consarnit, that’s the third brush you’ve broken!”

“Just forget it Applejack, I don’t think we’ll be able to control it,” Bonbon said, rolling her eyes.

“Leave her be you guys, Pinkie’s fine the way she is,” Vinyl said, to which Pinkie gave a grand smile.

“So, you excited?” Rainbow Dash asked as she ran a brush through her own mane a few times to get any stray strands in order.

“Yeah… nervous too,” Vinyl said. “Bonnie, I’m gonna need your help. I’m no good with makeup stuff.”

“No need to worry Vinyl,” Bonbon said, retrieving a suitcase and sliding it onto the kitchen table. She then opened it, revealing an array of different makeups as well as applicators, impressing the other mares. “How do you think Lyra leaves the house looking so good?” she winked.

“You rock, Bonnie!” Vinyl said, giving her a quick hug.

“I know, now go get ready!”

“Right, which way is your shower, Applejack?”

“Down the hall and to the right, can’t miss it. I just got out myself so the water should still be warm. Once you’re done Bonbon can jump in,” Applejack said.

“Got it!” Vinyl said. She made her way down the hallway, seeing numerous photographs of the Apple family. I can’t wait until our family gets to take photos like these… she thought. I should buy a camera.

She then entered the bathroom, finding a fresh towel. She shut the door behind her, stepping into the shower. She turned on the water, letting it soak into her skin. “Oooh, that feels awesome,” she sighed. She sat down in the shower, allowing the water to hit her for a short while before actually washing up.

Once she finished, she stepped out and dried off, giving a sigh as her mane snapped back into its usual position. I kinda understand how Pinkie feels… She then sniffed the air. Does everything in this house smell like apples? she wondered, giving a small shrug as she exited the bathroom.

She returned to the kitchen, finding that they had finally gotten Pinkie’s mane under control. “Wow, I’m impressed,” Vinyl said.

“Yeah, it wasn’t easy, but we did it,” Rainbow Dash said with a grin.

“Five brushes… five,” Applejack said, shaking her head slightly. “Oh Vinyl, remind me ta get my dress Stetson before we go.”

“Sure thing,” Vinyl said, taking a seat in the kitchen.

“Just sit tight Vinyl, I’ll help you do your mane and makeup once I get out of the shower,” Bonbon said as she made her way to the shower.

“Gotcha,” Vinyl said.

“So, you gonna be DJing the reception or is somepony else gonna be doing it?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Nah, not today. It’s actually funny that you’re asking that question,” Vinyl said.

“Yeah! I was there when it happened! Octavia came by to visit me and ask me how things were going so then I told her that one of the DJs got sick with the pony pox and then this other pony offered then Octavia got mad and I left,” Pinkie said in one breath.

“She got mad? Why’s that, Vinyl?” Applejack asked.

“Well… it’s a bit of a long story,” Vinyl said.

“We’ve got nowhere to go until we’re ready, might as well spill it,” Dash said with a small shrug.

“Alright, though I gotta warn you all; I don’t want anypony getting angry or trying to get revenge on my behalf, at least not today,” Vinyl said.

“It’d take somethin’ pretty bad ta get us to that point,” Applejack assured.

“You say that now…” Vinyl said. She then began to recount how she originally met Neon, their partnership-turned-relationship, their breakup, his return into her life and the massive amount of chaos he caused. The other mares were left in silence, Dash scowling heavily.

“What a jerk! Ugh, that makes me so mad! I swear if he even thinks about messing today up for you I’ll—” Dash stopped short when Applejack raised a hoof.

“You’ll do nothin’ of the sort, Dash. Firstly, it ain’t yer place or yer business. Secondly, it’s Vinyl’s weddin’ day, ya ain’t gonna screw that up, not if I have anythin’ ta say about it. Lastly, it’s gotta mean somethin’ if he’s decided ta offer his services for the weddin’,” Applejack reasoned.

“But that’s just it! What if he’s trying to mess with them again?” Dash said.

“Octavia already laid down the law with him. We’re giving him one chance. He mucks this up, he’s gonna regret it,” Vinyl said.

“If you’re sure…” Dash said skeptically.

“C’mon Dashie, if Vinyl thinks he’s worth giving another chance then I say give it to him! Besides, he didn’t seem like a bad pony, just a good pony who did a bad thing,” Pinkie said. “We’ve all done some silly things to ponies we care about, even if what he did wasn’t so silly. Everypony deserves a second chance.”

“Alright, fine! I get it, I’ll back off,” Dash said, acquiescing. “I’m still not a hundred percent sold, but I’ll trust your judgment.”

“I getcha, and believe me, I feel the same way. Thanks though Dash, I know you mean well,” Vinyl said. “He’s not a bad dude, at least I don’t remember him being that bad a dude… hopefully he’s actually changed for the better.”

“I guess we’ll find out soon enough,” Applejack said. Bonbon emerged shortly thereafter.

“Okay, let’s get you ready!” Bonbon said, sitting Vinyl in front of the mirror and opening her briefcase. “If there are any other ponies who need my help with makeup, now would be the time to ask!” Rainbow Dash quietly trotted over to the table, taking a seat.

“I, uh… I’m no good with this stuff either,” Rainbow Dash admitted, blushing slightly in embarrassment.

“No need to be embarrassed, we’re all friends here,” Bonbon said, patting Rainbow Dash on the shoulder.

“I can help, Dashie! Let me help!” Pinkie offered. “I’m suuuuuuper good with makeup! I do it all the time when I do birthday parties for the little foalsies!”

“Probably not a bad idea Dash, I don’t know how long I’m gonna be working on Vinyl,” Bonbon suggested.

“Well… okay I guess,” Dash said. “You’d better not make me look like a clown!”

“Just trust me Rainbow Dash, I’m gonna make you look good!” Pinkie immediately went to work, slathering makeup on Dash’s face in a flurry of hooves.

“Uh, Pinkie, don’tcha think that—” Applejack started, but was ultimately ignored.

“Aaaaaand done!” Pinkie said, whirling Dash around, whose makeup looked surprisingly immaculate.

“Woah… that’s… actually amazing,” Bonbon said. Pinkie held up the mirror, allowing Dash to get a good look at herself.

“Who’s that hottie in the mirror? Oh wait, it’s me!” Dash said with a small laugh.

“Well ain’t that swell, just feed Dash’s ego more why don’tcha?” Applejack sighed, Bonbon laughing at her passing comment.

“When you look this good, ego ain’t even a thing,” Dash said. Bonbon continued working on Vinyl, finishing up by applying her lipstick.

“Ugh, this stuff tastes weird…” Vinyl said.

“You say that ‘cause you’re not used to wearing it,” Bonbon reasoned.

“You have a point,” Vinyl responded. She looked at herself in the mirror, impressed. Her eyelashes looked lengthy and full, her eyeliner emphasizing the ruby red of her irises. “Wow Bonnie, you did some awesome work here.”

“Glad you think so, ‘cause I’m not done!” Bonbon said, reaching forward and grabbing a hoofful of Vinyl’s mane.

“Woah, woah, be careful noooooooow!” Vinyl yelled as Bonbon forcibly pulled it back and drove a comb through it in one motion. She tied it back and styled it at the end, leaving only a few locks untamed.

“Just one more thing…” Bonbon said, moving over to Vinyl’s side and clipping on the bow as well as the amethyst treble clef under her left ear, representative of Octavia’s cutie mark. “Done!” Bonbon chirped. Vinyl looked at herself in the mirror, stunned by what she was looking at.

“Wow… I look beautiful…” Vinyl said softly. “I mean, I totally expected to look hot, but I never really thought of myself as beautiful,” she said. I wonder how Octy looks in her dress… she thought.

“Okay Applejack, your turn!” Bonbon said.

“Actually Bonbon, I think I can take care of it myself…” Applejack said, raising her hooves.

“You sure?” Bonbon asked. “Pinkie, you think you can help me with Applejack?”

“Yup! Sure thing, Bonbon! We’re gonna make her preeeetty!” Pinkie giggled, the slightest hint of mischief present in her voice.

“Now c’mon y’all, let’s not do anything hasty…!” Applejack said, suddenly finding herself in a corner as the other two mares bore down on her. Without warning, both Pinkie and Bonbon lunged at Applejack, grabbing her and dragging her into the next room, fighting her to get her makeup on. As they struggled, Vinyl found herself alone with Rainbow Dash, who was adjusting her mane in the mirror for peak coolness.

“So, Dash, I got a question for you…” Vinyl said as she began to brush her tail to straighten it.

“Shoot,” Dash said.

“Are your mane colors natural or do you dye your mane to get them?”

“One hundred percent natural, that’s what makes me awesome,” Dash said smugly.

“No kidding, it’s pretty cool,” Vinyl said.

“Y’know, I also gotta say it’s pretty cool being a bridesmare for one of the best DJ’s in Equestria, who also happens to now be my friend,” Dash said.

“Heh, anytime,” Vinyl said, extending a hoof, to which Dash bumped it in return. Bonbon and Pinkie Pie emerged, a very grumpy and very pretty Applejack in tow.

“I coulda done it myself…” Applejack said flatly.

“Oh come on, AJ. If it helps, you look really pretty,” Vinyl said, batting her eyelashes at Applejack. Dash then proceeded to burst into laughter, banging her hoof on the table.

“Yeah yeah, yuck it up,” Applejack said. “Let’s just get dressed already,” she said as she trotted by Rainbow Dash, whipping a rear hoof out and catching her right on the cutie mark.

“Yeowch!” Dash yelped, rubbing her flank while shooting Applejack a glare.

“Hey AJ, can I borrow one of your ties?” Vinyl asked.

“Sure thing Vy,” Applejack said, reaching back to her mane and untying it, causing her mane to cascade down her shoulders in a flowing river of gold. Everypony present stared at her in awe. “See, this is why I don’t do this in front of anypony, it’s the same thing every durned time! You’d think y’all’ve never seen a blonde pony with her mane down!” she sighed, shaking her head.

“You should definitely do it more often; in fact, as official second bride of today’s wedding, I want your mane down until it’s over,” Vinyl said with a smirk.

“Oh, now you have to leave it down,” Bonbon said.

“Fine, if it’ll get y’all off my back about it,” Applejack said as she passed the tie to Vinyl, who used it to tie the end of her tail together to keep it in order.

“Hey AJ, where’s my dress?”

“Upstairs in my room, I went ahead and made sure ta lay it out for ya before ya got here,” Applejack said as she slipped on her dress.

“Okay, cool,” Vinyl said, getting up and heading upstairs. She entered Applejack’s room, finding her dress laid out on the bed. She quietly slipped it on, adjusting her sleeves as well as the shawl around her neck. She put on the necklace that Rarity picked out for her, and turned to the mirror.

She simply sat there, staring at herself and processing what she was seeing. It was then that it caught up to her. I’m a bride. I’m getting married. To the mare I love, she thought, unable to stop smiling. Her vision grew misty, but she immediately cleared away the tears. Bonbon had worked too hard on her makeup for her to mess it up by crying.

She then left Applejack’s room, hearing commotion coming from the room across from her’s. Vinyl pressed her ear up to the door, hearing what sounded like Scootaloo and Apple Bloom.

“Hey girls, you okay in there?” Vinyl asked, the commotion within coming to a halt.

“Uh… I think I need a little help,” Scootaloo said. Vinyl opened the door, finding Apple Bloom struggling to get the zipper on the back of the dress up. The girls looked to Vinyl, stunned by her appearance.

“Wow Miss Vinyl, you look beautiful!” Apple Bloom said.

“Yeah, super beautiful!” Scootaloo added.

“Thanks, I know,” Vinyl said coolly. “Now, how can I help?”

“My dress is stuck,” Scootaloo said. Vinyl took a look and found that a feather had gotten caught in the teeth of the zipper.

“Alright Scoots, there’s a feather stuck back here. I’m gonna have to pull it out, so this may hurt a bit,” Vinyl said.

“This is gonna hurt a lot…” Scootaloo said, anxious.

“It’s gonna be fine, Scoots. I want you to do something for me, okay?” Vinyl asked.

“What’s that?”

“I want you to show me how tough you are!” Vinyl said, furrowing her brow at Scootaloo. Scootaloo’s entire demeanor changed, giving a small snort as she readied herself.

“Okay, I’ll be tough!” Scootaloo said, doing her best to hide the nervousness in her voice.

“You can do it, Scootaloo!” Apple Bloom said, giving her friend whatever moral support she could offer.

“You gonna be tough!?” Vinyl said, readying to pull the feather.

“I’m gonna be tough!” Scootaloo said.

“One, two, three!” Vinyl said, yanking out the feather. Scootaloo gave a yelp of pain, the filly gritting her teeth against it as tears welled up in her eyes. Vinyl immediately kneeled down to her, looking her in the eye. “Hey, you did it! You were super tough!”

“I, I was?” Scootaloo sniffled.

“The toughest, and guess what, now we can pull your dress up, so now you’re tough and good-looking!” Vinyl said as Apple Bloom slid the zipper up into place.

“Thanks Vinyl, you’re almost as cool as Rainbow Dash,” Scootaloo said, giving her a hug.

“I can accept that,” Vinyl said with a smile, returning the hug. “You two look awesome, you’re gonna knock all the colts dead!”

“Why would we do that?” Apple Bloom asked, Scootaloo mirroring her confusion.

Kids, Vinyl thought. “Nevermind. Either way, now that I helped you, I’m gonna need your help.”

“How can we help?” the fillies chimed in together.

“How would you two like to bring my ring up to the altar?” Vinyl asked. Their eyes lit up as they smiled.

“Heck yeah!” Scootaloo said.

“You can count on us Miss Vinyl!” Apple Bloom said.

“Awesome, I knew I could,” Vinyl said, hoof-bumping the fillies. “Alright, now let’s go downstairs and wait for my parents to show up so we can go to the chapel together.”

“Okay!” the fillies said in unison, darting out of the room together, Vinyl in tow. The fillies made their way down the stairs, the other mares expressing their delight at how cute they looked in their dresses. After a few moments, Vinyl spoke up.

“You guys ready for me?” Vinyl asked.

“C’mon down, we wanna see!” Applejack said.

“Yeah, get on with it!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. With that, Vinyl appeared at the top of the stairs, eliciting sounds of awe from her bridesmares.

“You look so beautiful…” Bonbon said, stunned.

“Thanks, I know,” Vinyl said with a small grin as she made her way down the stairs, basking in the adulation of her friends. Once she made it to the bottom of the stairs, she took a seat. “Right, now all we gotta do is wait for my parents… that’s gonna be fun.”

---

Kester stared into the mirror, eyeing his bushy red beard closely.

“Jus’ one more lil’ snip…” he said softly, quickly cutting what he seemed to be an errant hair that stuck out.

“Kester, you’ve been in there for almost an hour, I need to bathe!” Madeline said.

“A’m almost done, Maddie! Jus’ give me five more minutes!” Kester said, spotting another hair out of place.

“I’m not waiting any longer! Open the door and I’ll just shower with you in there,” Madeline said, exasperated. The door opened, Madeline pushing past her husband and entering the shower. Kester heard the water kick on, turning and seeing his wife’s shapely silhouette in the shower curtain.

“Are ye’ sure ye’… don’ want me ta join ye’?” Kester asked. Madeline peeked her head out from behind the curtain, staring him down.

“Don’t. Even. Think. About it,” Madeline growled.

“Ach, fine! A’ get it, sheesh…” Kester said, immediately backing off. He went back to his grooming… then cast another gaze at the shower. Maybe just a peek… he thought, quietly moving over to the edge of the shower. He gently grabbed the edge of the curtain, pulling it back slightly. To his horror, Madeline was already expecting him, an expression of pure unbridled fury on her face. Kester quickly shut the curtain. “Nope. A’m… uh… gonna go get dressed…” he said, scrambling out of the bathroom as quickly as his hooves could carry him.

As much as I like the fact that he still finds me so attractive, there is a time and place for everything, Madeline thought with a small smile on her face.

Kester made his way back to the main area, retrieving his bag with his suit in it. He opened it, pulling out his coat as well as another bag within. He slipped on his shirt, buttoning it up, then slipping on his coat. He opened the other bag, retrieving his glengarry and kilt, both of which bore the Malt family crest. He put on the kilt, zipping it up and adjusting the crest to be visible, then adjusting his glengarry. Madeline emerged from the shower and smiled at the sight of Kester in his traditional wear.

“Wearing your family garments?” Madeline asked.

“O’ course! Tavi’s a Malt, and we Malts are a proud Scoltish family. It’d be doin’ both her an’ ma’ family a disservice by no’ wearin’ it,” Kester said, puffing out his chest.

“Right right,” Madeline said, sitting in front of the mirror and beginning to comb her mane in the way she wanted. A moment later, she felt a tap on her shoulder. She looked to her left, finding Kester sitting next to her. He quietly slid his tie onto the countertop in front of her, clearing his throat. “Do you need me to help you put on your tie?”

“Perhaps,” Kester said. Madeline rolled her eyes, unable to stop herself from smiling.

“Come here,” Madeline said, putting down her brush. Kester sat in front of her, Madeline grabbing the tie and sliding it under the collar, tying and adjusting it for him. “Sometimes it is glaringly obvious that under all that fur and muscle, you are just a sweet little country colt, Kester Malt.”

“Aye, but A’m yer favorite country colt,” Kester winked. “Jus’ like ye’ are ma’ favorite city filly,” he said.

“That is very true my love,” Madeline responded sweetly. She gently tugged on his tie, pulling his face downward to share in a quick kiss. Madeline then sighed. “Can you believe our baby is getting married today?”

“Ach, don’ remind me, Maddie… A’m havin’ a hard enough time acceptin’ ma’ lil’ Tavi is… m-ma’ baby is…” Kester said, his voice cracking as he found himself surprisingly short of words. Madeline wordlessly wrapped her forelegs around his neck, the stallion unable to contain his emotions. Images and memories surfaced in his mind, such as the memory of the day Octavia first came into the world and the memory of the day he brought her home from the hospital.

“There there, darling,” Madeline cooed, rubbing his back. “She’ll always be our little filly.”

“A’ know, Maddie…” Kester said, wiping his face and blowing his nose into a tissue. “A’ jus’ cannae believe she’s all grown up…”

“Yes she is, Kester… but at the end of the day, she will always be our daughter, and you will always be her father,” Madeline soothed. “In fact, it’s like we have two daughters now. We’ve both grown to love Vinyl like she was our own.”

“Aye, very true…” Kester said with a small smile. “A’m not worried.”

“Neither am I. I knew from the day that we met her, just seeing the way she looks at Octavia that what they have is real. She is going to be just fine,” Madeline said. “Just… fine…” It was then Kester’s turn to do the comforting as Madeline burst into tears, the stallion scooping her into his chest and letting her cry.

“This is goin’ ta be a tough day…” Kester said. After a few moments, Madeline shook herself out of it.

“Now is not the time for tears! I still have to get dressed,” Madeline said, kissing her husband on the cheek as thanks for comforting her, hurrying off to put on her dress. Kester gave a small sigh as he eyed his harp in its case. He contemplated practicing and getting warmed up, but decided against it.

“Does this look okay?” Madeline said from nearby, Kester turning to look. He about felt his eyes bug out of his head, his throat suddenly going dry as he laid eyes on his wife. She was wearing a slim, yet elegant emerald dress, accentuating her eyes. Kester opened his mouth to speak a few times, but words eluded him. Her mane had been done up in a tight bun, her bangs perfectly even across her forehead, two locks coming down the sides of her face and stopping just past her chin.

“Tha’ dress is dangerous, Maddie!” Kester said. “If we hadn’t jus’ spent over an hour gettin’ ready A’d take ye’ were ye’ stand,” he said huskily, to which Madeline blushed.

“Maybe later, we need to go and get Octavia,” Madeline giggled. With that, the two left their hotel room, heading for the Carousel Boutique.

---

“Marianna, are you almost ready? We are burning daylight, dear…” Rolando called out. When he received no response, he merely shook his head and trotted over to the mirror. He looked himself over for what seemed like the hundredth time, making sure not a hair or thread stood out of place on his person. He looked over at a small case standing next to his luggage, and smiled.

Vincenza will love that, I am sure… he thought to himself. He took a seat on the bed, opening his wallet. In it, aside from his personal effects, he kept a small photograph tucked away. He slid it out of his wallet, examining it.

It was a photo of Vinyl, sitting in Rolando’s grip, just old enough to be school-aged, with a big smile and shiny new braces. Her wild mane had been controlled, pulled back into a tight ponytail as she beamed at her father. He remembered it as though it were yesterday…

***

“Come now, Vincenza… Give us a smile,” Rolando said.

“I don’t wanna! They look stupid,” Vincenza said shyly, unappreciative of her mother holding a camera to her face.

“Now darling, why ever would you think that?” Rolando said, sitting in front of her.

“‘Cause the other fillies at school were making fun of me…” Vincenza said sadly, looking downcast. Rolando gently swept her up into his grip, embracing her. “They said my braces made me look dumb…”

“Now let me tell you something about those other fillies,” Rolando said. “They are not Staccatos. They are not my children. You are, and you are the one I care about. You are my daughter, and in my eyes, you are the most beautiful, wonderful and charming little filly I have ever known, and that will never change, braces or not,” Rolando said.

“Really?” Vinyl said, looking up at him with a tender yet hopeful expression.

“Really, and no matter what happens in life, I will always love you,” Rolando said, kissing her on the forehead just above her horn, to which Vinyl smiled brightly.

“I love you too, Daddy…” Vincenza said, hugging him around his neck as Marianna snapped the photo.

***

Rolando sniffled heavily as he watched the scene play out in his mind, bringing the photograph to his heart. He could still feel her little forelegs wrapped around his neck, her bright smile lighting up the room. He felt Marianna sit beside him, leaning her head on his shoulder.

“My little girl is all grown up…” Rolando said.

“She is… she has grown so much. We could not have expected any more from her. She is strong, independent, kind, and gentle. Octavia has brought out the very best in her,” Marianna said.

“You are absolutely right,” Rolando said as he wiped his face. “She must look stunning in her dress…”

“I cannot express my excitement in seeing her all dressed up!” Marianna chirped, quickly shooting off the bed to prepare her mane. As Marianna readied herself, Rolando retrieved the case from his luggage, and exited the room and out to the balcony. He figured now would be a good time to warm up.

The cool, spring breeze blew gently against his coat as he opened the case, retrieving an antique violin that lay within. He gripped the ancient wood, feeling it creak slightly in his grip, but the quality of its design withstood the test of time, the wood holding strong. It belonged to his father, after all.

He drew his bow, and began to play, drawing his bow and starting with a simple melody and making it steadily more complex, layering more emotion into the piece as he played. Once complete, he gave a satisfied sigh, feeling his wrists were now primed and ready. He slid the violin and bow back into its case, latching it shut and entering the hotel room once more.

“That was a lovely piece Rolando,” Marianna said as she put on her earrings. Marianna was wearing a stunning royal blue dress, her mane done in beautiful ringlet curls that sat at her shoulders. She had applied just the smallest bit of makeup to bring out the features of her face.

“You look magnificent, my dear. Are you sure you are not the bride?” Rolando said with a smirk.

“Oh stop it,” Marianna said demurely, giggling as she blushed softly at the compliment. “You look very handsome. You clean up well, as always.”

“Nothing but the very best for my little girl,” Rolando said.

“Absolutely,” Marianna affirmed. “Now, are we ready to go? I am eager to see my daughter,” she said. Rolando nodded, the two exiting the hotel room and locking the door behind them as they made for Sweet Apple Acres.

---

Kester and Madeline made their way down the streets of Ponyville, the early rising ponies already out and about. They made their way up to the Boutique’s front door, knocking.

“Coming!” a voice said from within. Rarity opened the door, smiling. “You must be the parents of the bride, come in, come in!” she said.

“Thank you, you must be Rarity. My name is Madeline.”

“Aye, and A’m Kester.”

“A pleasure to meet you both, Madeline and…” Rarity trailed off as she got an eyeful of Octavia’s father. “...Kester…” she said softly. What a hunk!

“Heh, A’ think she likes me Maddie,” Kester said with a smirk.

“Good, maybe she’ll keep you,” Madeline said with a sigh, rolling her eyes. Rarity shook it off, letting them pass.

“Goodness me, I didn’t expect that…” Rarity said to herself as she closed the door behind them.

“Hey there you two,” Lyra said, coming forward.

“There she is, the maid o’ honor!” Kester said, hugging her. “Ye look marvelous Lyra.”

“Oh, thanks,” Lyra said, blushing at the compliment.

“Let me start out by saying that you all look absolutely beautiful,” Madeline said. “Rarity, your dresses are more beautiful in person. I have many clients who have spoken wonders about you, but now I see they simply weren’t doing your work justice.”

“Oh, please Madeline, this is my passion, my raison d’etre, if you will,” Rarity said.

“Aye, an’ we just wanna thank ye all for bein’ such good friends with ‘Tavi. As parents, all we want is fer our baby ta’ grow up happy n’ healthy. A’ can already see you two will find out soon enough,” Kester said, nodding in Twilight and Trixie’s direction. “Alright, now lemme see ma’ ‘Tavi in her dress.”

“Octavia, come on out,” Lyra called out. With that, Octavia quietly made her way into the room. The moment Kester laid eyes on her, it felt as if the entire world stood still. His eyes slowly widened as he drank in the sight of his daughter, layered in snow white cloth, unable to think or breathe. All he saw was the little filly, looking back at him with the violet eyes he gave her who was also at one point no bigger than his foreleg, now a fully grown mare and clad in her wedding dress.

“How do I look?” Octavia asked softly.

Kester tried to speak, but could not. The lump in his throat had grown too large, the stallion resisting the urge to burst into tears. Madeline had to restrain herself from crying as well, instead cantering up to her daughter, and kissing her on the forehead.

“There are no words to express how beautiful you look,” Madeline said softly. Octavia blushed, embracing her. After a moment, Octavia then made her way up to Kester, who was visibly in emotional distress, but refused to open his mouth. His eyes opened when he felt a pair of smaller forelegs wrap around his neck as Octavia embraced him tightly.

“Please don’t cry, Papa… I’ll always be your little ‘Tavi,” Octavia whispered in her father’s native tongue. With that, the dam burst. Kester’s mighty Scoltish heart dissolved as he openly burst into tears, wrapping a single foreleg around Octavia’s back.

The touching moment between Octavia and her father had most of the mares sniffling; that is, until Kester reached over and grabbed a swatch of Rarity’s fabric to blow his nose with.

“No, no, not that—” Rarity’s voice was drowned out as Kester blew his nose, the action sounding like a foghorn going off in the center of the room. Once he stopped, Rarity sighed. “I suppose I can always make a new one…”

“A’m sorry, ‘Tavi! Ye jus’ look so beautiful,” Kester explained, as he took a breath to calm himself. “A jus’... saw ye grow up ‘fore ma’ very eyes.”

“I know, Papa,” Octavia said, kissing him on the cheek. “Shall we go to the chapel?”

“Aye,” Kester said, grinning from ear to ear. “Let’s get ma’ baby married!”

---

Rolando and Marianna made their way down the well-trodden path to Sweet Apple Acres, taking in the sights.

“This is such a lovely little town… it almost makes me regret not moving here when we married,” Marianna commented.

“Our home has been in the family for generations. I wanted to live there and have Vincenza grow up around her grandparents. I daresay my father was not around much when I was growing up, and when he was, he drove me like a mule…” Rolando stated. “I wanted to make sure that did not happen to her like it did to me.”

“I know dear, I was just making an observation. Did Kester take the proposition well?” Marianna asked.

“He did, in fact. He wants to smooth out some of the details, but he said he was willing. Hoofington is quite a stretch away from Ponyville and I would hate to have our grandchildren constantly moving to and from if they decide to visit.”

“Very good,” Marianna said. “We only met them some time ago and they already feel like they are part of the family. I have not had a friend I can confide in like Madeline in ages, and Kester, for all his quirks, has a heart of gold.”

“That he does, dearest. I still feel a bit ashamed of myself for squabbling with him when we were snowed in, and he got hurt because of me when I had my episode,” Rolando said, a tone of regret in his voice.

“I am certain he holds nothing against you. I would even go as far as saying that he feels the way you do about it all,” Marianna reasoned. “I would think that he would not had gone to the lengths he did to bring you back if he did not care for you.”

“Very true,” Rolando said. “It also goes to show how much he loves Vincenza. They have accepted her with open hooves, and we need to make sure we do the same for Octavia. She is more than deserving.”

“Without a doubt dear,” Marianna said. The two approached the main house of Sweet Apple Acres, knocking on the door. There was the sound of scrambling hooves, then silence. Applejack emerged a few moments later.

“Howdy, ‘n welcome to Sweet Apple Acres! Y’all must be Vinyl’s folks,” Applejack said with a grin.

“Yes we are, and erm… ‘howdy’ to you as well,” Marianna said with a smile.

“Good morning,” Rolando said.

“C’mon inside, Vy’s ready n’ rarin’ ta go,” Applejack said, ushering them inside.

“‘Vy’? What a cute nickname!” Marianna chirped.

The couple entered, taking in the rustic appearance of Applejack’s home.

“What a lovely little home you have here, erm... I am sorry, I did not catch your name,” Marianna said.

“Applejack, ma’am,” Applejack said, introducing herself.

“I am Marianna, enchanted to meet you,” Marianna said, doing the same.

“My name is Rolando,” Rolando said courteously. “Is Vincenza ready?” From upstairs, a loud groan was heard.

“‘Vincenza?’” Rainbow Dash repeated. “Oh. Oh. That’s Vinyl’s real name. Oh, that’s just awesome,” she said, holding back laughter. Marianna then spied Bonbon, who was finishing putting on her mascara.

“Bonbon, there you are! Oh, you look absolutely stunning, dear!” Marianna said as she approached her. Bonbon’s face lit up in a smile, standing up and moving over to Marianna, the two sharing a quick embrace.

“Oh, thank you. The two of you look fantastic,” Bonbon said as Rolando greeted her as well.

“Thank you dear,” Rolando said. “Do you know how much longer she will be?”

“She should be ready,” Bonbon said. “Vinyl, come on down, your parents are here!” she shouted up the stairs.

Showtime, Vinyl said, swallowing hard as she came around the corner, appearing at the top of the staircase. As she came down, it was as though time itself had stood still. Both Marianna and Rolando had been stunned into complete and utter silence. Rolando was seeing something completely different from all the others; he was seeing the same little Vinyl from the photograph he kept in his wallet coming down the stairs, all dressed up for her first day of school. Then he saw her grow a little, now dressed for her first vocal recital. Then again, dressed for her high school prom. He saw her grow a little more, wearing her cap and gown at her high school graduation, to now, in her wedding dress.

“So… do I, uh… do I look okay?” Vinyl asked nervously. Rolando took a deep breath, clearing his head. He then smiled.

“There was only one day in your life that you were more beautiful than you are now…” Rolando said. “It was the day that you were born… the day I held you in my hooves for the very first time.”

“Dad…” Vinyl said, absolutely touched by his words. She felt her heart catch in her chest, having to blink tears out of her eyes. “You’re gonna make me ruin my makeup. Bonbon worked hard to make me look this good…” Marianna moved over to Vinyl, embracing her tightly.

“We are both so proud of how far you have come…” Marianna said. “You have grown up to be a strong, independent and kind-hearted mare.”

“Thanks Mom,” Vinyl said with a soft smile.

“You could not have found yourself a better partner to spend your life with, and you could not have found better friends to surround yourself with,” Rolando said. “To reiterate what your mother said, we are so proud of you, and know that no matter what the future may hold, you always have a home, and we will always love you…” he said, kissing her on the cheek. Vinyl threw her forelegs around her father’s neck, unable to hold back the tears.

“I love you too Daddy…” Vinyl said softly, kissing him on the cheek in return.

“That’s, so, sweeeeeeet!” Pinkie exclaimed, bawling at the touching scene unfolding in front of them. It took a few moments to calm her down, Bonbon smiling and rolling her eyes.

“C’mon Pinkie, we still got time. We can redo your makeup, and then I’ll redo Vinyl’s,” Bonbon said with a small laugh. Vinyl chuckled sheepishly.

“Sorry…” Vinyl said.

“Do you really think I’m gonna be mad over you crying because your dad said such a sweet thing to you? What kind of friend do you take me for?” Bonbon said, nudging Vinyl’s shoulder.

“The best kind,” Vinyl winked.

“Now now, fillies, we can all have a good cry during the ceremony later,” Marianna said. “We need to get going so we can get the ceremony under way.”

“Right… let’s do this thing!” Vinyl said with a smirk.

---

The two wedding parties arrived at the chapel, Octavia’s party arriving through the front and Vinyl’s through the back as to keep tradition of the married party not seeing or interacting before the ceremony. With the brides tucked away in their waiting rooms, the bridesmaids set off to make sure everything was ready for them.

Rarity quickly set off with Pinkie to make sure all the decorations were in place, Fluttershy making her way outside to call to her doves and do one last practice run of their songs. Rainbow Dash quickly made her rounds and cleared the sky of any clouds, making sure not to muss up her mane in the process. Twilight and Trixie went over their spells, making sure they had them all in order. The mares of honor helped out wherever possible, Lyra staying close by to Bonbon in case she needed assistance. That left just the parents, who convened near the chapel entrance.

“Oh my stars Madeline, you look simply marvelous!” Marianna gushed as she embraced her soon to be co-mother in law.

“No more lovely than you do my friend,” Madeline said, returning the embrace. Kester and Rolando approached one another, shaking hooves.

“Ye clean up well Roly,” Kester said with a toothy grin.

“I daresay I could say the same about you. I must say, the glengarry and kilt are a very nice touch. I can definitely appreciate paying homage to family lineage,” Rolando said, looking Kester up and down.

“Well how abou’ tha’?” Kester said, looking to his wife with a confident smirk. “Somepony likes ma’ weddin’ attire,” he said with a toothy grin.

“I never said it looked bad,” Madeline sighed.

“But ye’ were thinkin’ it,” Kester pointed out. Madeline opened her mouth to protest, but elected not to.

“Well, hello! You must be the parents of the brides!” Another voice said as another pony trotted up to them. A mare with a wavy white mane and tan coat wearing glasses and a navy blue suit appeared, smiling brightly. “Good morning everypony, my name is Mayor Mare. I am the Mayor of Ponyville and I will be officiating the wedding today.”

“Oh, splendid to meet you Mayor,” Madeline said, bowing her head out of courtesy, to which the others did as well. “Thank you for taking the time to officiate Octavia and Vincenza’s’ wedding.”

“It is my absolute pleasure. Weddings are momentous occasions, bringing together two families in a way that no other bond can. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world,” Mayor Mare smiled warmly. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to prepare. See you all in a moment!” she said as she hurried off

“Well Kester, shall we make our way to the altar and get warmed up?” Rolando offered.

“Aye, we’ll see ye’ durin’ the ceremony,” Kester said to the mares, the two stallions taking their instruments further into the chapel. Madeline then turned to Marianna.

“Could you point me to where Vincenza is? I would love to see her before the ceremony starts.”

“Oh, right down the hall, first door on the right,” Marianna said, pointing behind her. “I would imagine Octavia is down that way?”

“She is,” Madeline winked. The two mares parted, making their way towards the rooms that held their daughters.

---

Marianna arrived at Octavia’s room, gently knocking on the door. “Octavia? It’s Marianna,” she said softly.

“Come in,” Octavia said from the other side of the door.

Marianna opened the door, and what she saw took her breath away. Octavia was seated on a stool, gently brushing her mane as she looked in a mirror. Save for the pregnancy belly, she looked as delicate and beautiful as a porcelain doll.

“Oh, Octavia… you look so beautiful,” Marianna said as she approached her soon to be daughter in law.

“Thank you Marianna,” Octavia said as she rose to greet her.

“No no, please do not get up on my account, I will come to you,” Marianna said as she closed the distance and embraced Octavia. “I had wanted to see you before the ceremony.”

“I appreciate it. I… am quite nervous,” Octavia said, her voice trembling slightly.

“No need to worry, dearest. You are with the ponies who love you…” Marianna then smiled as she took one of Octavia’s hooves into her own. “Rolando and I were speaking about it earlier. We could not be more proud that Vincenza found you. You have influenced her life in so many positive ways that we couldn’t hope to count them. You complete her, and it makes us so happy to see that she completes you, too. She may have her quirks and her faults… but I have never seen her love and cherish another pony so deeply as she does you. We could not be more honoured to be your in-laws, and we are oh so excited to meet the little ones,” Marianna smiled brightly as she gently placed her hooves on Octavia’s belly, feeling her grandchildren return her touch.

Octavia resisted every urge to cry, feeling a few tears escape the corners of her eyes. “Thank you, Marianna. I cannot tell you how much it means to hear that from you. I do not know if he told you… but I idolize Rolando as a musician. He was one of the reasons I took up the cello in the first place.”

“He told me,” Marianna said with a warm smile as she retrieved a hoofkerchief to wipe away Octavia’s tears. “That is what makes this all the more wonderful. The love of our daughter’s life has a blessed gift that she can contribute to this family that will make it flourish and blossom like a meadow of flowers. All the more reason for us to be proud of her… and you,” she said as she embraced Octavia. “Now, no more tears until after the wedding. We love you very much.”

“I love you too,” Octavia squeaked out past the lump in her throat.

“Come, it is time to get you into position,” Marianna smiled as she assisted Octavia to her hooves.

“Okay, Octavia said softly.

---

Vinyl paced around the room nervously. “This is it… this is it. I’m getting married. Holy heck this is it!” she said to herself.

“No need to be so nervous,” a voice said. Vinyl jumped back, anxiety apparent in her eyes as she eyed Madeline.

“Oh… it’s just you Maddie…” Vinyl breathed.

“How could a mare that looks as beautiful as you do, be so nervous?” Madeline smirked.

“I know, right?! I’m going crazy in here!” Vinyl said.

“Relax, take a deep breath, and focus on me,” Madeline said, putting a hoof on her shoulder. She breathed along with Vinyl, and within moments Vinyl felt her heart settle back to its normal rhythm.

“Thanks,” Vinyl said with a small smile. “I don’t know what I’d do without you and Kester.”

“I should be saying that to you,” Madeline said. “Kester and I don’t know what we’d be doing without you in our daughter’s life.”

“Maddie…” Vinyl said, her eyes widening.

“I want you to know something. Something that only my husband, my doctor, and my daughter know,” Madeline said. “I’m infertile. I can’t have another foal.”

“That… that’s so sad,” Vinyl said, feeling her heart sink.

“I was sad for a while… until you walked in my front door. The bright smile on your face, the eagerness and desire to make my daughter smile, the look of pure, endless love in her eyes every time she looked at you. That’s something above and beyond anything we could have asked for. I realized then that I didn’t need to birth another foal…” Madeline said.

“Maddie, no…” Vinyl said, her chin quivering as tears threatened to escape her eyes. “Stop it… you’re gonna make me cry…”

“Why would I need to birth another foal when I have you?” Madeline said with a small smile. “You’re the best thing that has happened to our little family since Octavia came into the world. I’m going to say something that I don’t ever want you to forget, and you need to promise me you’ll never forget this, okay?”

Vinyl merely nodded, unable to find the right words.

Madeline then wrapped her forelegs around Vinyl’s frame, cradling her in the same way a mother would with her child. “You are as much a daughter to Kester and I as Octavia is. You will always have a home with us. You are family now, and as Kester will tell you, that is something that we hold in very high regard.” That was all it took. Vinyl’s emotions overcame her and she began to cry in Madeline’s embrace, Madeline soothing her much in the way she would Octavia when she was a filly.

“There there,” Madeline cooed.

“I can’t tell you… how good that makes me feel,” Vinyl choked out after a few minutes. Madeline raised Vinyl’s head, quickly grabbing a napkin and dabbing at the corners of Vinyl’s eyes to clean up the running mascara. “I was so scared I’d do something to mess up what you guys thought of me. I’m scared of messing up the wedding and disappointing Octy…”

“Oh, come now Vinyl, it would take something short of a miracle to ruin today, and even then, it would only make it all the more memorable,” Madeline winked. “And don’t ever think that you could change our opinions of you. Again, it would take something very severe to change that, and I don’t think there is a single mean bone in your body.” Vinyl shook her head, affirming Madeline’s words. “Listen… relax, okay? We love you, and Octavia loves you. Don’t forget that.”

“I love you too second Mom,” Vinyl said innocently, which elicited a small laugh from Madeline.

“I could get used to that,” Madeline said. “Now let’s go. Octavia’s waiting for you.”

“Yeah, let’s do this,” Vinyl said, taking a deep breath and walking out the door behind Madeline.

---

The chapel was now filled to the brim with ponies from both ends of the family. Kester and Madeline’s extended family filled the left side of the chapel, Marianna and Rolando’s filling the right as they eagerly anticipated the arrival of the brides. The bridesmaids all stood in two separate lines at the entrance, waiting for the procession to begin. Madeline and Marianna quickly crossed paths as they made their way to the opposite ends of the chapel where their daughters waited just outside.

“Alrigh’ Roly… let’s get this weddin’ under way,” Kester whispered.

“Indeed,” Rolando said. Mayor Mare made her way up the aisle, taking her spot at the pulpit at the center of the altar. It was then that the remainder of Octavia’s ensemble quietly entered through the back door of the chapel and took their places at their respective instruments beside Kester and Rolando.

“We’re not late, are we?” Frederic asked softly.

“Just in time boyo,” Kester grinned. Harpo nodded, Beauty Brass slipping on her sousaphone as they all readied to play.
“The sheet music is laid out for you,” Rolando said, pointing at the sheet holder sitting atop the keyboard of the piano.

“Excellent,” Frederic said, flipping it to the first page. "For the record, it is an honor to play with you," he said to Rolando. "We are all big fans of your work.

"Good to know. We will touch on that topic later," Rolando said.

Frederic began to play his piece, one member of each bridal party walking up together in pairs and taking their respective spots on the altar. Frederic’s hooves danced masterfully across the ivory keys, setting the tone of a wedding beautifully. Once all of the bridesmaids had found their spots, it came time to introduce the brides.

Frederic completed his piece, Kester and Rolando beginning to play theirs. The doors on both sides of the chapel opened, letting in beautiful rays of sunlight as Madeline and Marianna entered first, followed by their daughters. As the sound of Rolando’s violin filled Vinyl’s ears, she immediately bit down on her lip to keep from crying. She instantly recognized the tone of the violin as the one her beloved grandfather Ostinato had used.

Grandpa… I miss you so much right now it hurts. I wish you could be here… she thought. Suddenly, a gentle breeze swept by her cheek, a familiar presence filling her heart then fading a moment later. Vinyl gave a soft smile. Thank you…

They met in the center, the mothers then gracefully stepping aside and allowing the brides to finally see each other. Vinyl’s jaw almost dropped to the floor as she soaked in Octavia’s beauty. Octavia was likewise stunned, drinking in every last feature and facet of Vinyl’s current appearance.

“You… you look stunning…” Octavia breathed.

“Can… can I just kiss you now?” Vinyl asked, similarly breathless, which drew a small blush from Octavia.

“In a minute,” Octavia winked. Madeline and Marianna shared an embrace at the altar, then sat by their husbands. Octavia and Vinyl made their way up the altar, standing in front of their respective bridal parties.

“Fillies and gentlecolts, I wish you all a wonderful morning. It is a beautiful day in our lovely little town of Ponyville, and today I welcome you all with a smile on my face and a song in my heart. Today, two of our newest residents, Octavia Philharmonica and Vincenza Staccato are to be wed. It is with great pleasure that I am the one officiating the ceremony for you all. What we have here is the prime example that love can take on any form, whether it be a stallion and mare, two stallions, two mares, or anything in between. Love is blind, love is just. It knows no borders, no genders, and no ideals,” Mayor Mare said. “Moving forward from that, I now request the rings be brought to the altar.”

First came Scootaloo and Apple Bloom, happily walking side by side as they jointly carried Vinyl’s ring to the altar, hoofing it over to her, who gently clipped it to Octavia’s left ear.

Spike and Sweetie Belle followed a moment later, eliciting a bright and colorful wave of adulation from the audience; Sweetie Belle had tenderly wrapped a foreleg around Spike’s arm as he carried the ring with his free hand. Spike sported a bright violet blush, Sweetie’s face a bright pink as she smiled sheepishly, narrowing the distance between them ever so slightly as they walked. Once Spike handed the ring to Octavia, she gently reached over and clipped it to Vinyl’s left ear.

With the delivery of the rings concluded, Mayor Mare spoke again, gesturing to Octavia. “Octavia Philharmonica, born to Kester Malt, a humble Scolt from the beautiful countryside of the Hayland Islands in Scoltland and Madeline Philharmonica, a proud and talented musical coordinator from Birminghoof, became a well-known and celebrated cellist from the humble hamlet of Hoofington. She has traversed our great land of Equestria and settled in Canterlot for a time, where she met her fiance.”

Mayor Mare then gestured to Vinyl. “Vincenza Staccato, born to the also well-known and celebrated violinist Rolando Staccato and Marianna Rosada, a similarly accomplished floral artist, also settled in Canterlot, where she met Octavia. This shows that no matter what backgrounds a pony can come from, love can be found in any corner of the world. One would do well to remember that. Without further ado, please allow our brides to share their vows,” Mayor Mare said. “Octavia, you may begin.”

Octavia found herself at a loss for words. The reality of the moment had sunk in, and it was her time to truly pour her heart out for Vinyl and the rest of those watching for all to see. Octavia took a deep breath, and began to speak.

“In the years that we have known each other, you have quietly worked your way into my being. Your quirks, your habits, your energy… all of it. I was hesitant to let such a loud, erratic measure of music into the symphony I call my life, especially when I found out I was pregnant… but I realize now that I needed it. I needed you. You have brought me such happiness in my time with you that I cannot even contend with the idea of you not being by my side. It took me time to accommodate myself to you, but I have grown to love every last part of you. I cannot fathom loving you any less than I do at this moment, nor can I express the limits of my excitement as to what our future holds together,” Octavia said. “I promise to be by your side and to be the best mother to our foals that I could possibly be by supporting them with you at my side as we raise them together. Through richer or poorer, through sickness and in health, until death do us part.”

Vinyl was stunned. She had the basic idea of what she had wanted to say, but Octavia’s words had single-handedly obliterated it from her mind.

“Vincenza, you may say your vows,” Mayor Mare said. Vinyl swallowed hard, then began to speak.

“Well… uh, I had something in mind, but I can’t really compete with that so I’m just gonna adlib it. Octavia, I love you. I love you more than any other pony in the world, and there’s no other pony I’d rather be yelled at by, or get smacked by when I do dumb things, or make smile like you do when I’m with you. You’re the love of my life, and I can’t imagine not waking up to you every morning and sleeping next to you every night. You’re not just the pony I love. You’re my…” Vinyl stopped, finding herself choked up as tears began to course down her cheeks. “You’re my best friend. You’re my confidant. You’re somepony I respect and even look up to at times. You’re my strength, the wind at my back, and the one sane thing in all this crazy. You keep me together. It’s that simple,” she said.

Vinyl then drew a small piece of paper from her dress pocket. “I did do a bit of reading- shocking, I know- when I had the chance and I found something interesting,” she said. She then began to read from the paper she was holding. “‘They say that in ancient times, long before Celestia and Luna were alive, whoever created us originally made us with two heads and eight legs. Because we had so many limbs, they became afraid of us and our strength, so they separated us. They forced us to spend the rest of our lives searching for our other halves,’” Vinyl concluded. She then looked to Octavia with tear filled eyes. “I found my other half. I’m done searching. You’re it. I promise everything you promised and more, and I promise that I’m gonna be the best danged mom those foals could ever have- and not even death’s gonna keep me from you or them, so I hope you know what you’re getting into ‘cause you guys are stuck with me!” Vinyl exclaimed, to which Octavia smiled through her own tears. Vinyl then whipped her head around to look at Mayor Mare. “Can I just kiss her already?!”

Vinyl was met with raucous laughter at her exclamation, the chapel settling down a few moments later. Mayor Mare nodded. “Without further ado, by the power invested in me as the Mayor of Ponyville by Celestia and Luna, Princesses of Equestria, I now pronounce Octavia Philharmonica and Vincenza Staccato officially married! Everypony, please stand to greet your newlywed couple, Octavia and Vincenza Staccato-Philharmonica! The brides may now kiss!” Mayor Mare said proudly as she stamped the seal of Ponyville on their marriage license. Vinyl quickly stepped forward and kissed Octavia, which was eagerly reciprocated. The crowd stood up and expressed their jubilation with uproarious applause. Twilight and Trixie set off their firework magic, small, colorful bursts of light igniting just above them.

Rolando was on the verge of tears, Marianna wiping her face as Madeline leaned on her for support. Kester had been trying his hardest not to cry, but it all came undone as Octavia and Vinyl sealed their marriage with a kiss, the massive stallion bursting into tears and instinctively grabbing the nearest pony to him, who just so happened to be Rolando.

“Muh- muh- muh baby’s married!” Kester sobbed loudly as he squeezed what little tears remained out of Rolando. Rolando attempted to respond, but could not find the strength or the air necessary to make noise beyond a raspy wheeze and breaking bones.

“Kester you’re killing him, let go!” Madeline said, attempting to pry Rolando from his grip before the wedding became a funeral. With that, Kester let go of him, readjusting Rolando’s suit.

“S-sorry there, Roly… A’ jus’ couldn’t hold it in anymore,” Kester said. Rolando merely grinned.

“Believe me I understand. What kind of fathers would we be if we did not cry at our daughter’s wedding?” Rolando said, patting Kester on the shoulder.

Octavia and Vinyl broke the kiss, looking around at their friends and family, smiling all the while. Mayor Mare then spoke once more.

“With our brides now happily married, I hereby conclude this ceremony and present to them their official marriage license, signed and sealed by yours truly. Now we must all look to the future as we happily spend the years to come with these newlyweds here in Ponyville, and eagerly await the arrival of their children into the Ponyville family!” Mayor Mare said as she hoofed over their certificate, which Octavia and Vinyl held up together.

“Hold onto this for a sec Octy,” Vinyl said as she moved away towards the pulpit. She then propped herself up.

“On behalf of Octavia and myself I wanna say thanks to everypony that came out to help us celebrate our wedding. The ceremony may be done, but the real party’s just about to start! We’re gonna have food, music and dancing at the reception hall just next door, and we’re gonna party until the sun comes up! Thanks again!” Vinyl said, taking her spot beside Octavia again, turning to look at her.

“Hey, Octy?”

“Yes Vinyl?”

“We’re actually married… isn’t that crazy?”

“A little… it still has yet to sink in.”

“Well… maybe what I’m about to say next will help it sink in a little better.”

“What would that be?”

“I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

“Can we go party now?”

“We can go party now.”

Vinyl smiled, wrapping a foreleg around Octavia’s as Fluttershy began to lead the doves in a splendid rendition of the Wedding Canter as they made their way down the aisle, the congregation following right behind them.

---

With the ceremony now behind them, the festivities began. The congregation that had decided to stay and celebrate with the newlyweds filtered into the reception hall. As per tradition, the last ones to arrive would be the couple, so Octavia and Vinyl found themselves waiting outside until their cue was given.

“How are you feeling?” Vinyl asked.

“Fairly well, all things considered. I was nervous getting ready, but aside from that nothing out of the usual,” Octavia said.

“That’s good,” Vinyl said. “Y’know, I kinda like this.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well… dressing up,” Vinyl said with a small blush. “Y’know, getting all pretty and stuff.” When she saw the growing smile on Octavia’s face, she immediately backpedaled. “That doesn’t mean we’ll do it all the time, though!”

“Oh, of course. Far be it from me to make it any less special than it is now,” Octavia grinned.

“Honestly, I feel kinda sexy in this dress…” Vinyl said, her mouth curling into a coy smirk. “You know… we do have a little time…” The moment Octavia’s grin disappeared, Vinyl began to laugh. “I’m kidding… or am I?”

“You had better be.”

“Then I’m not.”

“Then I am going to have to fix that.”

“Ooh, yes, fix me all night, you know I love that!”

“Vinyl, you-!” Octavia felt that little vein in her forehead she had affectionately named after her lover beginning to throb, and took a deep breath. “Not today.”

“C’mon, you don’t think I’m even a little sexy in this dress?” Vinyl said, giving Octavia a sultry wink as she gently shifted the frills of her dress, revealing just the slightest bit of thigh.

“...Perhaps a little…” Octavia said under her breath as she blushed furiously.

“What was that?” Vinyl said, tilting an ear in her direction.

“Nothing I will ever repeat,” Octavia said, raising her chin indignantly. Vinyl merely shook her head as she laughed, trotting up to Octavia.

“See, this is what I meant when I said my vows. This little moment we just had?” Vinyl said as she gently touched her forehead to Octavia’s. “I live for them.”

“I can tell, and truth be told… so do I,” Octavia said softly.

“The fact that we get to do it for the rest of our lives…” Vinyl began.

“...Is the best thing I could have ever asked for,” Octavia finished as they shared another kiss, the moment frozen forever in their minds as time itself seemingly ground to a halt. After what seemed like an eternity, a voice broke the temporal bubble around them.

“As much as I hate to interrupt this sweet little moment, you’re up!” Lyra said, poking her head out the nearby door.

“Awesome. You ready to knock ‘em dead, Octy?” Vinyl asked, standing by her side.

“As ready as I will ever be,” Octavia winked as the two made their way inside.

The congregation stood up, stamping their hooves in applause as Octavia and Vinyl made their way to the elongated table where their parents sat. Once they were seated, the food was brought out.

“Finally! I’m starving,” Vinyl said, hungrily digging into her plate. “Oh wow, this is amazing,” she said.

“Agreed,” Octavia said simply as she dug into her own plate. They talked and laughed with passersby as they ate, accepting many well wishes and congratulations from their guests. Just nearby, Rainbow Dash spied the two eating, and smirked.

“You ready, Pinkie?”

“Suuuure am!”
With that, Rainbow Dash began to tap the edge of her champagne glass against her hoof, causing a gentle clinking of crystal. The other ponies in attendance followed suit, Octavia and Vinyl looking over. As was customary at weddings, when the guests clinked their glasses together, it was a call for the married couple to share a kiss. Vinyl looked around, trying to figure out who had started it. She caught Rainbow Dash’s cheeky grin and smiled. Vinyl then stood up.

“While I’m still gonna kiss my wife, because Rainbow Dash so kindly started it, I think I’d like her to demonstrate for all of us how a real kiss is done,” Vinyl grinned evilly. Rainbow Dash’s face lit up a bright magenta, the pegasus quickly ducking down into her seat, caught completely off-guard. “Maybe next time,” Vinyl added, sitting back down and sharing a kiss with Octavia, feeling thoroughly satisfied as the audience cheered.

“Ya ain’t gonna do that again, are ya Dash?” Applejack grinned.

“Nope…” Rainbow Dash replied.

“Aww, I would have kissed you Dashie!” Pinkie said with a bright smile.

“I appreciate it, but no thanks.”

Once enough time had passed and stomachs had been filled, Lyra and Bonbon made their way up to the small podium with a microphone.

“Thanks everypony for coming out to celebrate Octavia and Vinyl’s wedding. As the mares of honor, we’ve both prepared small speeches to toast our friends on their happy day,” Lyra said. “My name is Lyra Heartstrings, and I am Octavia’s friend and mare of honor. I have known Octavia for many years, and for a lot of them, we didn’t quite see eye to eye, to put it lightly. We got into quite a few arguments, but thankfully, that chapter in our lives has been closed and we’ve buried whatever issues we’ve had in the past. I’m proud to call her my friend, and it was truly an honor to be her mare of honor.”

Lyra took a step back, allowing Bonbon to step forward. “My name is Bonbon Heartstrings, I’m Lyra’s wife and Vinyl’s best friend. I met Vinyl a couple of years ago through Lyra and Octavia’s many, many, many arguments. More often than not it would be us standing on the sidelines and catching up on life while those two,” Bonbon gestured to both Lyra and Octavia, who smiled sheepishly to the laughter of the audience, “tried to skin each other like wild cats. Not pretty. If I could describe Vinyl in two words, it’d be these; loud and proud. She marches to the beat of her own drum and doesn’t care who thinks otherwise. She’s larger than life, and has an even bigger heart. I’ve seen their relationship blossom from friendship to what it is now, and I couldn’t be prouder of them. Congratulations, you two!” Bonbon said as she lead those in attendance in a round of applause. “With the speeches out of the way, it’s time for their first dance as a married couple!”

Octavia and Vinyl stood up, making their way to the dance floor. A familiar light blue unicorn moved over near the dance floor as well, carrying a microphone. Octavia and Vinyl carefully watched him as he prepared, ready for anything.

“Good afternoon everypony, my name is Neon Lights. I worked with Vinyl for a few years as her MC and as her partner. She and I haven’t exactly been on good terms as of late for reasons I won’t get into, but I’m ecstatic to be here to perform the song for her first dance with Octavia on her special day. I would like to personally thank them for the opportunity,” Neon said, bowing his head to Octavia and Vinyl, who nodded in return. “Vinyl and Octavia are special ponies who truly deserve happiness, and I can’t picture them being happy without each other. I know for a fact that these two will go the distance, and they’ll be splendid parents to their children. Without further ado, let’s all draw our attention to the newlyweds as they dance together,” he said.

“Are you ready?”

“Yeah… you’re gonna have to guide me though, I’m kinda rusty,” Vinyl smirked.

“Just follow my lead,” Octavia winked. Neon nodded to the pony working the music, who pressed the play button on the console. Suddenly, the sound of several voices singing in perfect harmony filled the air, the voices sounding remarkably like Neon’s, just in different ranges.

“Is that really Neon singing?” Octavia asked as they slowly twirled on the spot.

“Yeah, he’s really good. He’s just like me. It’s actually how we met. I’ll tell you about it sometime… for now, let’s just enjoy this…” Vinyl said as she held Octavia a little closer.

“Agreed…” Octavia said, her voice barely above a whisper. Neon then picked up the microphone, singing directly into it, his voice sounding as clear and pristine as crystal. His horn lit up slightly, his throat glowing a soft white as he used his magic to adjust his range. Suddenly, Neon hit a surprisingly low octave range, eliciting a small wave of murmurs from the audience.

To the married couple, the entire world had disappeared. It was just them, dancing alone in an empty reception hall. They stared into each other’s eyes, a connection of boundless, enrapturing love being made between them.

In each other’s eyes they saw their future together; a cozy, comfortable home with their children. Their children would grow to be happy and healthy, eventually finding ponies of their own to love. The little foals they brought into the world would one day spread their wings and leave the nest, returning with their own families in tow. Their little family would grow, both in number and in happiness. This was a future that both of them truly desired from one another, and mentally resolved to make it become reality.

“I love you so much…” Vinyl said softly.

“I love you, too… more than you know,” Octavia returned, the two sharing another kiss as they slowly danced.

Neon concluded his song, taking a bow as he received thunderous applause for his performance, Octavia and Vinyl smiling at him. He smiled in return, then took to the microphone again.

“Alright fillies and gentlecolts, with the formalities over and done with, I think it’s time to kick this party into high gear!” Neon said. He loaded a disc into the turntable console and pressed play. “The next event on our list is the removal of the wedding garter!” he called out. Lyra and Bonbon brought out a seat for Octavia, setting it in the center of the dance floor for all to see. Octavia took a seat, Vinyl giving a devilish smile.

“I hope you’re ready, Octy…” Vinyl said.

“Be gentle…” Octavia asked, her eyes wide. Vinyl raised Octavia’s dress, disappearing halfway as she made her way underneath it. “Oh goodness Vinyl, your hooves are freezing!” Octavia exclaimed as Vinyl pressed her hooves on her inner thigh, mentally thanking whichever deity came first for this moment. Vinyl bit down on the garter, Octavia reflexively shifting in her seat and blushing brightly as Vinyl removed it, sliding it off her leg. The crowd yelled their approval.

“Alright! Who’s ready to catch this thing? No magic or wings allowed, we gotta make it fair for everypony!” Vinyl called out as mares and stallions alike prepared to catch it. She turned around and used her magic to fling it into the air. Many jumped up to reach it, but none succeeded as Vinyl had shot it too high and too far.

---

Spike had made his way to the soda fountain, filling his cup when suddenly something soft landed on his head, blinding him momentarily. “Woah, woah! What is this thing!?” he exclaimed as he pulled it off his head. Suddenly, the little dragon found himself hoisted in the air, stallions and mares alike cheering for him. “What’s going on!? What is happening!?”

“You caught the garter, little guy!” a white unicorn yelled from beneath him.

“What does that even mean!?” Spike responded.

“It means you’re gonna be the next guy to get married!”

“Isn't he a little young for that, White?”

“Oh hush, Scroll!”

Spike’s eyes widened. All of a sudden, finding Rarity became of utmost importance, but she was nowhere to be seen at the moment. Octavia then stood up, holding the bouquet.

“Alright, here we go!” Octavia said as she leaned forward and hurled the bouquet behind her. Not knowing her own strength, it flew past the crowd and landed in the hooves of three ponies. Three young, troublemaking and cutie-mark-seeking ponies. Spike followed the bouquet’s path, hoping against hope that Rarity would catch it, but felt his jaw drop when Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo emerged, all holding chunks of the bouquet. They all looked to see who had caught the garter, their faces curling into mischievous smiles as they trained their sights on Spike.

Spike tugged on his collar, swallowing hard. If there had ever been a moment that Spike wished he could crawl back into his egg, it would have been this very moment.

---

With the formalities concluded, Neon took to DJing the party as he had volunteered, ponies enjoying themselves with drinks and dancing as the hours wore on. Rainbow Dash and Applejack finished chatting with the others, making their way to the dance floor.

“C’mon AJ, let’s dance! It’ll be fun!”

“Alright, alright, keep yer mane tied,” Applejack said reluctantly. As they made their way forward, Rainbow Dash accidentally stepped on the hoof of another pony and almost tripped.

“Hey, watch where you’re…” Rainbow Dash started as she turned to face the one who almost caused her to fall and embarrass herself. The image of a handsome, emerald green pegasus with a turquoise mane peered back at her, a slightly confused expression on his face.

“Going…” Dash said softly, finding herself in a spot she hadn’t expected.

“‘Going’? I’m going to the dance floor,” the stallion said. “I don’t suppose you’d like to join me…?” he said smoothly as he extended a hoof.

Oh my gosh, what a hunk! “Uh huh…” Dash said, gingerly placing her hoof in his as she looked at Applejack, an expression of pure incredulity on her face. “Are you seeing this?!” she mouthed.

“I’ll leave y’all alone to yer dancin’,” Applejack winked as she returned to her seat, Rainbow Dash giddily following her new dance partner to the floor.

“The name’s Emerald Sky, by the way,” the stallion said.

“I’m Rainbow Dash,” she responded.

“Nice to meet you Dash! Now, shall we?” he asked.

“Yeah!” Rainbow Dash smiled.

---

Fluttershy viewed the dance floor from her table, seeing all of her friends enjoying themselves. If only I had the courage to ask somepony to dance... that looks like fun... she thought. She stood up, deciding to get some punch when she accidentally bumped into a light green pegasus who was also facing the dance floor, oblivious to his surroundings as he sipped his drink. “O-Oh, my goodness, I’m so sorry I-”

“It’s alright, no harm done...” the stallion said, turning to face her and freezing when he took a good look at her. She... she’s beautiful... he thought to himself, swallowing hard as he brushed a lock of his black mane out of his face. “Hi...”

“H-hi...” Fluttershy squeaked in response. Oh my goodness he’s so handsome! He must think I’m so impolite!

“I’m... uhh...” he stammered, his brain blowing a fuse as he tried to speak up.

She tried to speak, but her voice was barely above a whisper. The two sat there trying to speak to one another, both failing miserably at it. Finally, the stallion shook his head, ruffling his wings at his sides.

Okay... let’s try this again, he thought. He mustered up his courage, and spoke. “I’m Star Chaser,” he said, introducing himself. “I think you look beautiful.” Way to be creepy, she’s probably gonna run away. Nice going!

Fluttershy’s face lit up to a shade of pink deeper than her mane. “I- I’m Fluttershy...” she said softly. He does!? Oh my goodness I’m going to shake my feathers off! Maybe he’ll even ask me to dance!

“W-would you like to dance?” Star asked nervously, his heart racing in his chest as he offered her a hoof.

“I think I would...” Fluttershy smiled demurely, blushing all the while, gingerly taking his hoof into hers and following him to the dance floor.

---

Applejack returned to her seat, watching as Rainbow Dash and her newfound dance partner made their way to the dance floor. She took a sip of the champagne and set her glass back down.

“Shoulda let me take care of the drinks, this champagne ain’t ta my likin’,” Applejack murmured to herself.

“What I’d give for a ice-cold mug of hard cider right about now…” a voice said from beside her. She turned to head to look, seeing a rather bored, yet slightly bemused pegasus. He was wearing military dress blues, his golden brown coat standing out against the black of his jacket. On his shoulder sat the Equestrian Royal Crest, as well as a single gold bar signifying his rank. His green eyes blankly stared out at the dance floor, his reddish yellow mane tied neatly behind his head. He looked over, catching Applejack looking at him. “Can I help you, ma’am?”

“Oh, t’wasn’t anythin’ important, just overheard ya wishin’ for some cider,” Applejack said.

“You have no idea. I’m not much of a champagne pony myself,” the stallion replied, shifting his wings slightly.

“Tell me all about it,” Applejack chuckled. “The name’s Applejack,” she said, extending a hoof.

“Second Lieutenant Comet Trail, 105th Battalion, ERAF. A pleasure to meet you,” the stallion said, introducing himself as well as he shook her hoof.

“Likewise. How do ya know the brides?” Applejack asked.

“I know Vinyl’s dad. Met him years back during a concert held for Princess Celestia’s birthday. Nice guy. Vinyl’s a sweetheart. Shame she’s taken,” Comet chuckled.

“Huh, every day’s a school day,” Applejack said, slightly impressed. He’s kinda cute…

“Sure is,” Comet said. He then looked at her again. “Wait a second, I know who you are! You’re the Applejack Apple, proprietor of Sweet Apple Acres!”

“The one ‘n only!” Applejack smiled.

“Wow, I gotta say, I love the fall cider you guys put out every year. You add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the barrels, right?” Comet said.

“That’s exactly right,” Applejack said, now thoroughly impressed. “You’ve got good taste.”

“I consider myself a bit of a cider connoisseur,” Comet said with a smirk. “Boot camp’ll do that to you.”

“I can imagine…” Applejack said. “Hey, how’s about we get outta here and get some actual cider?”

“Sounds like a plan,” Comet said. The two stood up, leaving the reception hall as Rarity, Twilight and Trixie looked on.

“My my, it seems a few of our friends have been bitten by the lovebug, haven’t they?” Rarity said, giggling slightly.

“Sure seems like it!” Twilight said. “Whatever makes them happy.”

“Agreed,” Trixie said as she sipped on her own champagne.

“I almost wish my own stallion would show up and sweep me off my hooves,” Rarity said with a small laugh, rolling her eyes. She looked around, spying a certain pianist that was known to play with Octavia as part of her ensemble. “Ooh, he seems like a fine specimen. I think I’ll go mingle. Tata darlings,” Rarity winked as she made her way over to the unsuspecting stallion.

“Guess that just leaves you and me,” Twilight said.

“You gonna go find yourself a stallion too?” Trixie said with a small smirk.

“Nah, I think I’m good,” Twilight said, nudging Trixie’s shoulder.

---

“No, I should get first dibs!”

“Why you? Just ‘cause you caught a slightly bigger piece doesn’t mean anything!”

“It don’t mean nothin’ if we can’t come to an agreement over this!”

Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo all sat in a circle, trying to come to an agreement over what was to be done with Spike, who sat nearby, chin in his hand.

"Maybe we can share him!"

"Nope, I ain’t sharin’!"

"Me neither!"

"Uh, girls, I'm right here..." Spike said.

"Shush Spike, let us figure this out!" Sweetie Belle said, to which Spike rolled his eyes.

"Well, can't we just like, split up the time?” Scootaloo suggested. “Maybe I get him on weekends, you can get him Monday and Tuesday, he stays home Wednesday, then Sweetie gets him Thursday and Friday."

"But that means you get him first! I want him first!" Sweetie Belle protested, latching onto Spike.

"That ain’t how this works!" Apple Bloom said.

"I'm not a pet!" Spike exclaimed. It was then that Spike gave an exasperated sigh. Whoever said it was a good thing that girls are fighting over you, either never had it happen or is a total liar, Spike thought to himself as Sweetie Belle quite literally snarled at the others when they approached them.

---

Allegretto sat alone, enjoying the scenery by himself when he heard a chair get pulled up next to him. He looked over and nearly jumped out of his seat when he saw it was Rolando.

“Oh… hello, brother.”

“Hello Allegretto,” Rolando slurred. The scent of alcohol was apparent on Rolando’s breath. He had been drinking since the reception started, Kester already a few shades to the wind and singing Scoltish shanties with Pinkie Pie at the DJ booth.

“I figured you would be yelling at me by this point,” Allegretto said after a few pregnant moments of silence between them.

“Not today,” Rolando said, taking another sip of his champagne. “It is my daughter’s wedding day. The last thing she needs is her father to ruin it for her. I have also had far too much to drink, which why I am even here talking to you now,” he said as he watched Vinyl, laughing her heart out as she sang along with her father-in-law. “Just keep your mouth shut and try not to ruin this moment.”

“Fair enough,” Allegretto said. A few moments later, Allegretto blinked in shock when he saw Rolando’s hoof extended.

“There is still a lot to make up for… but coming to your niece’s wedding is a start,” Rolando said. Allegretto merely smiled, shaking his brother’s hoof.

“Indeed,” Allegretto said. The two brothers continued to watch the festivities, managing to catch the magnificent sight of Kester drunkenly crashing through a table, sending ponies, food and table settings in every direction, uproarious laughter erupting from the crowd. “I hope he is not hurt…”

“That stallion fought a bear by himself and lived,” Rolando said.

“Seriously?”

“Seriously,” Rolando finished.

“Well, I suppose I have a lot of catching up to do.”

“Indeed you do.”

---

As the sun set and the moon rose to take its place, the festivities eventually wore down and ponies began to leave, thoroughly partied out and ready to go home. Twilight and Trixie made their way back to the Library with Spike in tow, the CMC going back to their respective homes as well, but not before vowing that there would be a resolution to their predicament.

Pinkie Pie and Rarity left together, laughing as they went. While neither of them had been “bitten by the lovebug” as Rarity had put it earlier in the evening, she did get acquainted with Frederic, finding him a rather charming stallion. They exchanged information and set up a day for him to come by and have a new suit tailored. Pinkie was content all the same. Completely satisfied the party she had planned had been such a rousing success, she had already begun planning the next.

Applejack and Comet Trail found themselves drinking and chatting at the local bar, talking the night away. Comet courteously escorted her home before taking off back to the hotel room he had rented for the evening. To his surprise, Applejack had stated that their evening together was “refreshing” and at his leisure could come back to call on her again, which he definitely planned on doing.

Fluttershy and Star Chaser spent the evening talking with one another, becoming quick friends. As he escorted her home, Star mentioned his desire to become an artist, and Fluttershy willingly offered her assistance in helping him create art of her animals if he so chose. Star gladly accepted her offer, promising he would contact her soon to set up a day for it. Fluttershy secretly hoped that he would come back to visit her sooner than later once he had dropped her off at her cottage.

Rainbow Dash and Emerald Sky immediately bonded, the two of them finding similar qualities in each other that they had seemingly not found in any other ponies they had met. Their evening ended with Rainbow Dash inviting Emerald back to her cloud home just outside of Ponyville for coffee.While neither of them slept, coffee was not the reason for it. Not even a little bit.

Lyra and Bonbon courteously assisted Marianna and Madeline with leading their drunk and cried-out husbands back to their respective hotel rooms, making sure that they were all settled before heading home themselves. They quickly entered their home and went to bed. No activities were had, except all of them.

This left Octavia and Vinyl alone, chatting and laughing as they made their way home.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen my dad cut loose like that,” Vinyl said with a laugh. “I could get used to that!”

“We only need one drinker in the family Vinyl. My father is more than enough,” Octavia said, rolling her eyes as she smiled.

“Oh, come on! You gotta admit it was at least a little great,” Vinyl said, leveling her eyebrows at Octavia.

“...Oh, alright, I suppose it was,” Octavia acquiesced. “I can only imagine the bill we will be getting for the table Papa destroyed.”

“Now that was awesome!” Vinyl said. “Kester’s the best.”

“He definitely has his moments,” Octavia said fondly.

“Y’know… today was pretty amazing,” Vinyl said.

“Agreed. I would even venture to say it was perfect,” Octavia said.

“Only ‘cause I got to spend it with you,” Vinyl said with a wink.

“Oh, hush…” Octavia smiled demurely, gently pawing at Vinyl’s shoulder.

“It hasn’t really sunk in for me yet. I mean, we’re married. You’re my wife, and I’m your wife,” Vinyl said.

“Yes, we are. Is that really so hard for you to believe?” Octavia said.

“No no, it’s not that… it’s just…” Vinyl pondered for a moment as she carefully sorted through her vocabulary. “I guess the only word I can think of is awesome.”

“I agree with you there,” Octavia said.

“It doesn’t hurt that I also have the best wife ever,” Vinyl said with a grin.

“Yes, yes you do,” Octavia winked. “As long as you keep that in mind, we will have no issues.”

“And you’d better not forget you’ve got the sexiest wife,” Vinyl said, waggling her eyebrows at Octavia.

“I suppose I can say that,” Octavia said with a cheeky smile.

“You ‘suppose’? That’s a weird way of saying ‘I totally agree with you Vinyl’,” Vinyl said, grinning widely..

“Perhaps, perhaps not. We will never truly know, now will we?” Octavia said cryptically.

“Oh, I’ll know. Maybe not tonight, but definitely tomorrow,” Vinyl purred.

“We shall see,” Octavia returned.

“We shall see indeed,” Vinyl said. The two of them approached their home, Vinyl drawing her key and opening the door. They entered, shutting the door behind them. They made their way upstairs to their bedroom, Vinyl making sure not to step on the squeaky floorboard that had scared her senseless. They then entered their bedroom, shedding the pieces of their dresses and collecting them on the armoire across from the bed. They slipped into bed, cozy under the covers, snuggling up to each other.

“Hey Octy,” Vinyl said.

“Yes Vinyl?” Octavia asked.

“Guess what?”

“What?”

“I love you.”

Octavia smiled. “I love you too,” she replied. The two shared a gentle kiss, holding each other as a calm, peaceful sleep drifted over them both.

Comments

[Glitch Hooves]

I was honestly expecting EVERYTHING that could go wrong would've, glad I was wrong, can't wait to see the baby pop in.

[Stahlseele]

Took you bloody long enough to get another chapter out!
And it's a good one too. Very little in terms of mistakes as well

“Hold onto this for a sec Octy,” Vinyl said as he moved away towards the pulpit. She then propped herself up.

“White, isn’t he too young for that?”

i think i had found one paragraph where the grammar was off, but i can't find it again in a quick search, sorry <.<

[The 72nd Huntress]

“W-Wow, Sweetie Belle… you look really pretty…” Spike said.
“Oh, um… thanks Spike… you look really nice too,” Sweetie Belle said

My shipping senses are tingling

they had finally gotten Pinkie’s mane under control

HOW!?!?!?!

“Five brushes… five,”

THAT'S NOT NOT AN EXPLINATION!!!

but in all honesty, I nearly teared up

[Ratsenkio]

hoofkerchief

I love you.

[Dustchu]

Awwwwww, this was such a sweet and heartwarming chapter, I loved it! Hehehehe, nice to see Kester again, and that everything was so awesomely well done! Nice job man, nice job! So many potential stories branching off from this one point~

So much was going on, I love it! Good show man, good show!
Was listening to this while I read, it fit in some parts methinks!~

[Aurora Dimmet]

“Are ye’ sure ye’… don’ want me ta join ye’?” Kester asked.

Kester remains my favorite character. He's my spirit horse.

[ThatBatJess]

6748893 He's awesome. I think he's my favorite male character, even.

[ShadowLDrago]

“While I truly appreciate the gesture Papa, we have only been living here for a short while. I would prefer to keep it that way,” Octavia said. Vinyl then leaned over to Kester, discreetly slipping him the keys to their house.
“This never happened,” Vinyl whispered.

I love these two.

“I’m sure we can handle him, how difficult could it be?” Twilight said.

“Five brushes… five,”

Wow.

“Aaaaaand done!” Pinkie said, whirling Dash around, whose makeup looked surprisingly immaculate.

“One hundred percent natural, that’s what makes me awesome,” Dash said smugly.

“Tha’ dress is dangerous, Maddie!” Kester said. “If we hadn’t jus’ spent over an hour gettin’ ready A’d take ye’ were ye’ stand,” he said huskily, to which Madeline blushed.

“There was only one day in your life that you were more beautiful than you are now…” Rolando said. “It was the day that you were born… the day I held you in my hooves for the very first time.”

Daaw!

“I want you to know something. Something that only my husband, my doctor, and my daughter know,” Madeline said. “I’m infertile. I can’t have another foal.”

Oh, oh, jeez, I, wow, I, I don't have anything clever to say.

“Excellent,” Frederic said, flipping it to the first page. "For the record, it is an honor to play with you," he said to Rolando. "We are all big fans of your work.

You forgot to put an ending quotation mark after work.

"Good to know. We will touch on that topic later," Rolando said.

Good to know he has his metaphorical priorities straight.

Vinyl then whipped her head around to look at Mayor Mare. “Can I just kiss her already?!”

I positively ADORE this mare.

“Good afternoon everypony, my name is Neon Lights. I worked with Vinyl for a few years as her MC and as her partner. She and I haven’t exactly been on good terms as of late for reasons I won’t get into, but I’m ecstatic to be here to perform the song for her first dance with Octavia on her special day. I would like to personally thank them for the opportunity,” Neon said, bowing his head to Octavia and Vinyl, who nodded in return. “Vinyl and Octavia are special ponies who truly deserve happiness, and I can’t picture them being happy without each other. I know for a fact that these two will go the distance, and they’ll be splendid parents to their children. Without further ado, let’s all draw our attention to the newlyweds as they dance together,” he said.

I REALLY like this. Yes, he may not be that happy about it, but, he's over it, and he's not going to be a big enough asshole to ruin the wedding.

“You caught the garter, little guy!” a white unicorn yelled from beneath him.
“What does that even mean!?” Spike responded.
“It means you’re gonna be the next guy to get married!”

You poor poor dragon.

“Alright, here we go!” Octavia said as she leaned forward and hurled the bouquet behind her. Not knowing her own strength, it flew past the crowd and landed in the hooves of three ponies. Three young, troublemaking and cutie-mark-seeking ponies. Spike followed the bouquet’s path, hoping against hope that Rarity would catch it, but felt his jaw drop when Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo emerged, all holding chunks of the bouquet. They all looked to see who had caught the garter, their faces curling into mischievous smiles as they trained their sights on Spike.

Hey Spike? RUN.

"Uh, girls, I'm right here..." Spike said.
"Shush Spike, let us figure this out!" Sweetie Belle said, to which Spike rolled his eyes.

Poor kid.

“There is still a lot to make up for… but coming to your niece’s wedding is a start,” Rolando said. Allegretto merely smiled, shaking his brother’s hoof.

Aye, perhaps things will get better.

“Seriously?”
“Seriously,” Rolando finished.

And WON. I think.

Rainbow Dash and Emerald Sky immediately bonded, the two of them finding similar qualities in each other that they had seemingly not found in any other ponies they had met. Their evening ended with Rainbow Dash inviting Emerald back to her cloud home just outside of Ponyville for coffee.While neither of them slept, coffee was not the reason for it. Not even a little bit.

Hm, I'm debating between Let's Get It On, and George Takei saying Oh My, what do you guys think? ALso, you forgot to put a space between coffee and while.

“Now that was awesome!” Vinyl said. “Kester’s the best.”

He really is.

[ElJorro]

All that's left is the birth!

[cr4zy4zn]

"Execute order 66."

[Nostromo_Crew]

So if this last chapter was 19 k words, are we to expect the birth chapter to be even bigger? I gotta know so I can clear my social calender to read it.

[RoboRed]

This was worth the wait. They're finally married now.

Also, that dance song for Vinyl and Tavi. My god...amazing.

[Tchernobog]

Wedding's fine and all... but... really? Random OCs for the mane cast? Just a bit (too) contrived.

[Web of Hope]

6781678 you're just mad that AJ and Dash didn't dance the night away

6748792 what do you mean 'nearly'?? I had to take breaks from reading because I couldn't see my phone!

[Tchernobog]

6795120 A bit, but it could've been anyone else we knew, any combination, not just oh so convenient and 'fitting' OCs :P

[Web of Hope]

6795144 true, but on the other hand, most of this story's felt almost as contrived, though not necessarily in a bad way, and I kinda felt like it fit.

[Tchernobog]

6795172 It felt a little like that, sure, but it's not at big enough amount/level to really be that bad. This just felt completely in your face :P

[The 72nd Huntress]

6795120
I have no soul.
Also, I lied. I DID TEAR UP!!!

[Lithe Kamitatsy]

6795144

Fun fact: Those OCs were not random! Emerald Sky belongs to Scy Storm, my good friend and editor-when-he-feels-like it. Star Chaser belongs to JuanRock, another friend of mine and the amazing artist who's done great work for this story. This was my little way of saying thanks for all their help.

Also Comet Trail belongs to yours truly and applehorse belongs to meeeeee

~Lithe

PS: Everything in this chapter will have effects in the future sequel!

[Super_Big_Mac]

Wow, I am actually gonna do a running commentary, huh? Firstly, Kester continues to be my Scottish Soul-self. Way to ruin the mood, Rarity. You don't talk about ruining your physique while in the presence of pregnant mares. It's simply not ladylike. Harrumph! Oh no, Spike's gonna be wielding the rings? I know he's a bit more mature than show Spike, but I fear for any gems that might be on those rings... Oh good, Sweetie will be able to stop him. Unless she ends up wondering what a diamond tastes like... What, Mac's gonna miss it? Aww. Oh, Neon. That's right. They tamed Pinkie's mane?! ...And she's a great stylist, huh? Damn. Oh no, Cutie Mark Crusader Ring Bearers, yeah! Kester is still amazing. I wish I had some idea of my Scottish background, but I've never met anyone on me dad's side of the family. Vinyl as a filly was adorable AF. Rolando, your violin is the one that will piece the heavens! And Kester my boy, I just watched I've of my long time friends propose. Having known him since fourth grade... I too know what it's like to shed tears of pride, if not for a daughter, than for a lifetime companion. And the wedding is going well! Oh, Vinyl... Only you could get away with that at the altar; and that's why we love you. x3 Yes! Please! Kiss her! Oh good, Neon's being a good colt. And Spike, my man! You got three little beauties chasing you now! I don't know if that makes you lucky or not, but good luck! You're gonna need it. Okay, okay, come on. Rainbow or Flutterbutter. One or the other. Both of them seemingly finding their OTP is just a tad ridiculous. ... And now Applejack too, huh? Well, I'm fairly certain that Rarity's gonna fail, so I guess it's not as bad as it could have been... Oh good, the CMC are trying to figure out who gets to be the Tsundere, Yandere, and Kuudere, aren't they? Drinking buddies, animal art amores, and a first night lay? Dads are both sloshed, and the night was perfect. Let's hope it wasn't too perfect. Babies await!

[Draco Loco]

I don't know why, but "Love is in Bloom" started playing in my head as soon as the reseption started, no matter how hard I tried to stop it.

[Twisted_Paradox]

Cant wait till this is completed. Best FIMFiction/ OctiScrath Fic I have ever read. Congrats to you Lithe Kamitatsy.

[AppleTank]

derpicdn.net/img/2013/4/11/294318/large.png

[DJ SNE4K-3]

Its been great watching this fic get better and better since I found it almost five years ago. After rereading the existing chapters yet again, I can only look even more forward to the ending few.

Fantastic work <3
itsnotdeadright

[Jake The Army Guy]

*sigh*

I miss this story...

[Fetch]

It's been nearly a year. Where is Chapter 67? Needing to know if Octavia has any more false alarms, or long time in labor, or very short time in labor.

[Angrynickle]

I don't even remember some of the story it's been so long I have to know what happens next

[bronyp0ny]

I just binge read this in two days and it is bucking amazing!! When is the next chapter!!!!

[CBM8]

7615254 It may never come back, but maybe that's okay now. I'll still wait for it, though.

[RK_Striker_JK_5]

So... is this fic actually done? May not be marked 'complete', but it seems to have a good ending point.

[Bronzedragon]

this story.

2013 one chapter
2014 Nothing
2015 Three Chapters
2016 nothing
2017 nothing so far
I'm not holding my breath waiting for any of his stories to be finished.

I really like the writing but like too many he just walks off without a word.
the last time I sent PM after PM no answer. Finally received a reply from another author who gave me a short answer that I really appreciated. Will leave the track and the follow but I am really out of hope. Hope things work out for you.
BD

[Jerrrry]

One day I hope to wake up and see a new chapter.
Even without one it has been a wild ride that I must thank you for.

[Diamond Night]

That so sweet and i love the fact that vinyl vinyl would wear a dress for tavi! I love this kester character. This was amazing took my sis a week to read it all me 2-3 days

[Diamond Night]

Are you still there? I really need the last chapters i want to see there children

[AppleTank]

wow das dead.

[SamuelK28]

Wow , took me 3 days but finally got to the end of this. People can say what they will but to have the determination and drive to continue a fic of this length and over time is a true testament. It may be sad that it is now more than likely over, but hay we may be surprised. The only way it could have been been better if Unts had got between them for that final kiss.

[Jahbraz]

I think the ??? chapters detail their child ([SPOILERS]at the time, it was not revealed they were having twins, so there's only one foal recording)

[_-Sky-_]

Will there be a continuation?

[RDDash]

for some reason this story just showed up in my list, even though I don't remember reading it. Assuming that the story never been updated since 2015 I think it's abandoned.

[Porozil]

Although this story is probably never gonna be finished, it's still by far one of my all time favorites.

[jileel]

I'll wait.

[Twisted Visions]

And the wait continues...

We are all aware that the author is likely in their late 20's at the earliest, right?

[Sugar Spoon]

Author chose the funniest chapter number to abandon this fic on.