//------------------------------//
// Chapter 6 
// Story: After The Secret 
// by jw278 
//------------------------------//

The early morning sun shines through the window of Spike's bedroom, causing him to wake to the sound of the birds happily chirping outside. As he rubs his eyes and sits up to make sure he doesn’t fall back to sleep, he thinks to himself, “Just once would it kill anypony to let me sleep in?” As a ray of sunlight hits him in the eye, he huffs, “That goes for you too, mom.” After yawning, he decides to get up and go for a shower. As he passes a few photos on the wall on the way, he comes to a stop at a framed magazine and smiles as he looks at it, “I can’t believe it’s almost been a year since she said yes.” 

It was one of Photo Finish's magazines and on the front cover was a picture of him holding Rarity, both with loving smiles on their faces, with the title ‘Friends, Hero’s, Lovers!!!’ With a subtitle saying, ‘Read it here first, how the dragon of Equestria won the heart of his fair lady, full story inside!’

“Well, we did say that she could write our story. I just didn’t know she would use up most of the magazine. Though I guess it really helped us out in the end. Most creatures outside of Ponyville thought we were crazy getting engaged so fast, but after telling our story of how I’ve loved her from the moment we met all the way up to our first date and how I asked her to marry me, everyone could see that even though we’d only been dating for a bit, we’ve loved each other far longer.” Spike thought as he laughed to himself before making his way to the shower with the biggest smile on his face, “And tomorrow, the world is going to see us for the first time as Mr and Mrs.”

After showering and having some breakfast, Spike was cleaning up the dishes. “Wow, I never realised how quiet this place is when no one else is around. It’s kind of creepy,” he thought to himself as he finished cleaning up. Spike let off a little giggle as he thought, “Got to admit, it felt a bit weird sleeping in my old bed again now that I’ve moved into Rarity’s. Has it already been 6 months since I moved out? Where’d the time go?” As Spike smiled he thought, “Then again, I’m still here every day. Maybe that’s why I didn’t notice how long it’s been.”

Spike took one last look around the kitchen to make sure everything was clean before deciding to go for a stroll through Ponyville since he had nothing to do for the rest of the day. As he passed by ponies in the streets, a lot of them were asking if he was ready for the big day or nervous, to which Spike just laughed and said, “Na. I’ve been ready for this for years,” getting a good laugh out of the ponies until he saw Rose and went over to say hi.

“Hey there, Rose. How’s it going?” Spike asked with a smile.

“Hi, Spike. I'm great as always, but shouldn’t I be asking you that? I mean, it is your big day tomorrow,” Rose said with a little giggle as she smiled back at Spike.

Spike laughed as he said, “Na, I’m good. Tomorrow's going to be the best day of my life,” as Spike looked over Rose’s shoulder he saw a cart full of flowers and gave Rose a curious look.

“These are the last few flowers for your wedding tomorrow," Rose said. "I’m just on my way to Canterlot to help set them up now.”

As Spike looked back at Rose, he said, “I could tak-“

Rose held up her hoof, cutting him off and said, “Stop right there, Mr. The Dragon. You know the rules. You’re not allowed in Canterlot till tomorrow, by order of Princess Celestia herself. But thank you for the offer anyway,” Rose said with a smile.

Spike scratched his cheek and giggled as he said, “Well, can’t blame a dragon for trying,” making Rose giggle.

“I’m sure the girls have got everything under control,” Rose said with a smile before saying, “I still can’t believe you’re having your wedding at Canterlot Castle and Princess Celestia is going to be officiating the ceremony. But, I guess it makes sense. You are from Canterlot after all. It’s just a bit weird though. I thought only royalty could get married in castles.”

Spike laughed and said, “Well, yeah. Normally that’s the case, but Celestia made an exception this time given the fact that I am the Friendship ambassador to Dragons and Changelings, hero of the Crystal Empire and Twilight's little brother.” As Spike giggled some more he said, “I say Celestia made an exception, but truth is she all but demanded that the wedding takes place there and let’s just say you don’t want to get on her bad side. Rarity was more than happy at the idea, though, so I’m good with it.”

Rose giggled as she said, “Can you blame her? She gets to marry her prince in a castle. That’s every girl's dream come true.” As Rose stopped giggling she asked, “You had your stag night a few days ago right? How was it?”

Spike laughed and said, “Yeah, it was great. Let’s just say it was a good idea to have it a few days ago, cuz if we didn’t I don’t think I would have made it to the wedding tomorrow.” As Spike finished laughing, he said, “Pinkie asked Cheese Sandwich to be the party planner, which I’m grateful for. That pony knows how to throw a bash. Having it at the Crystal Empire was a good idea. Though, I could have done without Discord making my statue come to life and doing all sorts of poses. Luckily, none of the Crystal ponies freaked out and the others seemed to get a laugh out of it, so all in all I guess it was a hit.”

Rose giggled and said, “Seeing a statue of your baby self come to life and start to do poses sounds like a riot. I’m glad you had fun. I really should be off though. I still got work to do. I’ll see you at your big day tomorrow,” Rose said with a smile as she started walking off.”

As Spike watched her leave, he said, “Yeah, see you tomorrow. Thanks for the help, Rose, and say hi to everyone for me when you see them, ok?” As Spike watched her wave goodbye with a smile, he waved back before continuing his walk through Ponyville. As he was strolling down the street, he saw Scootaloo going off in the direction of the Everfree Forest by herself. Even more unusual, she wasn’t riding her scooter. With his curiosity getting the better of him, he decided to follow her to see what she was up to. Coming to a stop at the edge of the forest, Spike ducked behind a bush and watched as Scootaloo took one last look around to make sure she wasn’t followed before climbing up to the first branch of a tree and jumping off, flapping her wings as hard as she could before hitting the ground with a thump.

“Oh, Scootaloo,” Spike thought as he watched her dust herself off and climb up to the branch above the one she jumped from before with a determined look in her eyes. “I’ve got to stop her before she hurts herself,” Spike thought, as Scootaloo jumps from the branch and starts falling to the ground, she closes her eyes ready for the impact, but Spike manages to catch her before she hits the ground again.

Unsure why she didn’t feel the pain from the hard ground underneath her, Scootaloo opens her eyes to see Spike on his back holding her in his arms. Taken aback, she looks at him and says, “Sp- Spike!”

“Hey Scoots. What’s up?” Spike said as he grins at her.

She quickly gets off of him and lowered her head to the floor embarrassed and asked, “Did you see?”

As Spike sat up he looked at her and said, “If you mean did I see you take a swan dive from that branch, yeah I did. What were you thinking? You could have gotten hurt.”

Scootaloo opting not to say anything started to climb the tree again with a fierce determination in her eyes as she said, “No pain, no gain. I’ll be fine.”

Spike couldn’t believe she was trying to do it again and quickly grabbed her and pulled her towards him to stop her from climbing the tree again. Scootaloo slapped his claws away and said, “Get off me. I got to fly.”

Taken back by this, Spike looked at her and said, “Scoot, what happened? Why are you doing this? Just talk to me, please. I’m your friend.”

Hearing that Scootaloo stopped in her tracks and sat down and sighed before looking at Spike teary eyed and said, “You wouldn’t understand.”

Spike gave her a soft warm hearted smile and said, “Try me. You’ll be surprised by the things I know.”

“No, you wouldn’t. You can fly,” Scootaloo said as she looked at him with a sad face.

“Yeah, that’s true, but I couldn’t always. Up to a while ago I never even thought I was going to get wings,” Spike said as he smiled at her.

Scootaloo shoots back, “That just makes it worse. It means you weren’t born with wings, but as soon as you got them you could fly. I’m a pegasus. I was born with wings and I still can’t fly. Sweetie Belle can use magic cuz she’s a unicorn, Apple Bloom is the strongest filly around and good at farming and stuff cuz she’s an earth pony. So why...” As she looks at Spike tears start to come down her face as she says, “If I’m a pegasus why can’t I fly.”

As Spike wipes the tears from her eyes, he gave her a sympathetic smile and said, “I’m sure you’ll fly one day. And when you do, there’s not a doubt in my mind that you’ll give Rainbow a run for her money.”

Scootaloo starts shaking her head as she screams, “NO I WON’T!!!” Embarrassed at her outburst, she lowers her head to the ground as she says, “I could never be like her.”

Spike sighed and said, “Ok, Scootaloo. I think it’s time you told me what happened to make you doubt yourself so much, cuz the Scootaloo I know is fearless and never gives up, and when it comes to fighting for her friends, her loyalty is only matched by her big sister, the Element of Loyalty herself, Rainbow Dash.”

As Scootaloo lifts her head back up to see Spike giving her a warm smile, she sniffs a few times before asking, “Yo-you really mean that? You think I’m like Rainbow Dash?”

As Spike giggles, he said, “I wouldn’t of said it if I didn’t mean it. Now what’s going on, Scootaloo?”

Scootaloo gets a little smile on her face at the idea of being like Rainbow Dash and says, “I know it shouldn’t matter. Rainbow Dash already said I was awesome with or without flying, but after seeing Featherweight flying yesterday, it hit me. I’m the last pegasus at school that still can’t fly.” Opening up her wings a little she gets a sad look on her face as she says, “It’s because my wings are too small and weak. I’m a pegasus. I belong in the sky. If I can’t fly, then I’m just a freak!”

SLAP!!!

As Scootaloo sat there holding her cheek in shock at being slapped. She looked at Spike staring at her angrily as he said, “I don’t ever want to hear you call yourself a freak again. Do you understand?” As Scootaloo sits there in shock at what just happened and nodded, Spike pulls her into a hug and says, “You’re not a freak. You’re one of the most amazing fillies I know.” After breaking the hug and seeing Scootaloo smile at him, he grabs one of her wings and pulls it open.

“Hey! What do you think you’re doing?” Scootaloo said as she pulled her wing out of his claw and looked at him.

Spike laughed and said, “Sorry. I just wanted to check something and I was right.”

Scootaloo gives him a weird look before asking, “Right about what?”

“Your wings may be small and not fully grown for a filly your age, but they are strong. Strong enough for you to fly I’d wager,” Spike said with a smile as he looked her in the eye.

“That’s not true. If that was the case, then I’d already be flying by now Spike,” Scootaloo said as she stood up.

“Oh, really? Then let me ask you one simple question and if you can answer it I’ll leave you be,” Spike said. As he watched Scootaloo sit back down ready to answer his question, he smiled and said, “If you think you can’t fly because your wings are too small, then how is it a pony like Bulk Biceps, who is clearly two or three times your size, still able to fly even though his wings are smaller than yours?”

For a few moments, Scootaloo said nothing, every now and then she would open her mouth to say something but stop until she said, “I don’t know. I guess that means it really is just me then,” as she folded her arms in annoyance.

As Spike smiles at her, he said, “The way I see it, it’s like when you got your Cutie Mark. You and the other members of the CMC ran around all over the place trying to get them, but it’s only when you stopped trying and helped some other pony discover the meaning behind their Cutie Mark, did you find that helping others discover their Cutie Marks was your purpose and received your own.”

A bit confused Scootaloo asked, “What’s my Cutie Mark got to do with me not being able to fly?”

Spike laughed and said, “In short, you’re thinking too much about it. Just like how you used to run around trying to get your mark. What do you think about when trying to fly?”

“I don’t really have time to think about anything in truth. I’m too busy concentrating on flapping my wings,” Scootaloo said rubbing her head to try and hide her embarrassment.

“Hmmm, is that right?” As Spike stands on his hind legs towering over Scootaloo, he places his claws down, palm side up and says, “I want you to lie down flat on my claws like you’re stretching.”

Giving Spike a confused look, Scootaloo askes, “Why?”

“I want to try something, that’s why. Come on,” Spike said as he looked at her.

Deciding to go along with him, Scootaloo lies down on his claws and Spike begins to lift her off the floor and hold his arms out straight. Now at his chest level, Scootaloo asks, “What’s the point of this, Spike?”

Spike says in a calm voice, “Ok, now I want you to close your eyes and don’t open them no matter what, and do everything I tell you from this point on without question. I want you to Pinkie promise.”

Still unsure what the point of all this was, Scootaloo said, “Ok, Spike. I Pinkie promise to keep my eyes closed and to do what you tell me.”

After she closed her eyes, Spike said, “Now I want you to take a calm relaxing breath.” As he watched her breath in and out slowly, he started to flap his wings slowly to go into the air. As he did he asked, “Now tell me, what do you feel?”

As Scootaloo continues to breathe slowly, she said, “I feel the warm sun on my back and a relaxing breeze going over me. It’s like I’m sunbathing at the beach. It feels so good and relaxing. I want to feel the sun on my back more.”

Seeing a smile come onto her face, Spike lifts her above his head and says, “That’s right. Feel the warm sun rays on your back. Let the wind wash over you.” As he said that, he saw Scootaloo open her wings instinctively and as he smiled said, “The wind isn’t your enemy. It’s your friend and it wants to help you feel the sun more. Don’t fight it. Let it lift you higher and higher, closer to the warm sun.”

As Scootaloo takes another breath and smiles, her wings begin to flap instinctively. Not fast and hard like all the other times she tried to fly, but relaxed and gentle. She began to slowly lift off of Spike’s claws and once he was sure she was ok, he put his arms at his side and flew in front of Scootaloo so he was eye level with her before he said, “Ok, now I want you to open your eyes.”

Taking another relaxing breath, Scootaloo opened her eyes to see Spike in front of her smiling. Confused why he was smiling, Scootaloo said, “Ok, Spike, so what was the point of all of this?”

Spike giggled, realising that Scootaloo hadn’t noticed that they were flying and said, “Hmmm, good question.” As he folded his arms and then stroked his chin with a claw as he looked at Scootaloo and said, “Why don’t you tell me?” As he grinned at her.

Just then, it dawned on her that she couldn’t feel the ground. Not just that, she couldn’t see the trees. That’s when her eyes opened wide like plates as she looked down only to see she was in the air. Not only that, but she looked at her sides to see her wings flapping. She was flying and doing it by herself. As she looked at Spike the biggest smile came on her face and she shouted, “I’M FLYING!!! I’M REALLY FLYING!!!”

Spike burst out laughing and said, “Yep. That you are,” as he smiled back at her.

Scootaloo goes to give Spike a high five but starts to fall. As Spike goes to grab her he shouts out, “Remember that feeling of the sun on your back!”

As he said that, Scootaloo stops descending and comes back into eye line with Spike and giggles as she said, “I guess I still got a lot to learn.”

As they both descend to the ground slowly, Spike decided not to say anything and just let Scootaloo get used to the feeling until they were both back on the ground safely. Once back on the ground, Scootaloo started hopping around like a bunny as she happily said over and over again, “I can fly! I can fly!”

Spike just giggled and said, “Well, I wouldn’t call it flying just yet. You're really hovering in one spot, but it’s a good start. And luckily for you, you happen to know one of the best flyers in all of Equestria and I’m sure she would be more than happy to teach you the ropes.”

Scootaloo stops jumping around and looks at Spike and says, “I was really flying, right? It’s not a dream?”

Spike laughed again and said, “Yep, you really were. I saw it with my own two eyes.”

As he said that, Scootaloo jumped into his arms and wrapped her hooves around his neck as she began to cry into his chest and said, “I’m not a freak. I really can fly.”

As she broke their hug, Spike smiled at her and said, “That’s right, Scoots. It’s like I said before, you’re amazing.”

As they both began to laugh again, Scootaloo stopped and said, “I don’t get it. How did you get me flying when I’ve been trying for so long?”

Spike smiled at her and said, “I didn’t know it was going to work, to be honest, but I realised that you were always trying too hard to fly. It's like you said before, Sweetie Belle can use magic and Apple Bloom is good at agriculture. That’s the magic in them just like flying is the magic in you. You all have a magic inside of you, but everypony is different. Everypony has to discover how to reach it their own way, I say that, but the truth is it's more instinct than anything. Just like you today when you were flying. You weren’t thinking of flapping your wings or trying to fly. All you were doing was feeling the sun on your back and the wind in your mane."

Scootaloo’s eyes got wider as she said, “It’s just like our Cutie Marks. When we stopped trying to get them and helped Diamond Tiara with her Cutie Mark problem, we got ours."

Spike giggled and said, “Yep. That’s right. But like getting your Cutie Mark and finding out what it means you have to practice. That’s why Sweetie Belle is still learning how to do magic and why Apple Bloom works so hard on the farm, and that’s why you still need to practice flying as well.”

Scootaloo giggled and said, “Wow, Spike. You really do know a lot, don’t ya.”

Spike laughed and said, “Thanks, but what did you expect? When you’re the number one assistant to a mare like Twilight, you pick up a few things.” After sharing another laugh together, Spike smiled at Scootaloo and said, “Well, I’m sure you’re going to want to show all your friends now, so why don’t we head back into Ponyville?”

As Scootaloo nods her head, she said, “Yeah. Hey, Spike, thank you for all your help today, but I have a favour to ask, if that’s ok.”

As they begin to walk back to Ponyville, Spike said, “Sure. What is it?”

Scootaloo looks at Spike and says, “Can you Pinkie promise not to tell anypony that I can fly now? I kind of want Rainbow Dash to be the first one to see and I know she’s in Canterlot helping set up your wedding right now.”

As Spike smiled at her, he said, “If you’re sure that’s what you want, Scootaloo, I Pinkie promise I won’t say a word to anyone. I know it’s not a Pinkie Pie cute-ceanera party, but how does me treating you to an ice-cream sundae at Sugarcube Corner to celebrate sound?” 

As Scootaloo smiles happily back at Spike she said, “I’m sure I want Rainbow Dash to be the first to see,” before running off a head of him and shouting, “Now come on, Spike. That ice-cream sundae won’t eat itself,” as she happily ran towards Ponyville.

“Kids,” Spike thought to himself as he shook his head and smiled before running after Scootaloo and shouted, “Wait for me, Scoots.”

After getting to Sugarcube Corner and saying hi to Mr. and Mrs. Cake, Spike ordered an ice-cream sundae for Scootaloo and a coffee for himself. As he sat there watching Scootaloo chowing down on her sundae with the biggest smile on her face, Spike couldn’t help but giggle as he picked up a napkin and started to wipe her face. After squirming a bit, Scootaloo took the napkin of him with a giggle and said, “Jeez, cut it out, Spike. I’m not a little filly anymore. I can wipe my own face.”

Spike laughed and said, “Sorry, Scoots,” as he smiled warmly at her and took a sip of coffee as he watched Scootaloo wipe the rest of her face clean.

Scootaloo slowed down as she carried on eating her ice-cream sundae, not wanting to make a mess again and as she did, Spike sat there with a warm smile on his face. That’s when Scootaloo said, “Hey Spike, I wanna say something to ya and it may sound a little weird but I don’t want you to take it in a funny way or anything. Is that ok?”

Curious what she wanted to say Spike said, “Go ahead, Scootaloo. You know you can tell me anything.”

Scootaloo stopped eating and said, “It’s funny, you know. All these years I’ve known you and watched as you ran around working so hard to help everypony, never asking for anything as a baby dragon, now after you’ve grown up. I don’t know. You seem different. I mean you’re still you, but different. It’s like today.”

As Scootaloo leans in and whispers to make sure no pony hears her, she says, “Like how you helped me learn to fly,” and as she sits back in her chair, continues, “Even now while you’re sitting there. You kind of remind me of my dad. He does the same thing. He just sits there smiling at me with this gentle caring look in his eyes, I can’t explain it. You give off this vibe, I guess. Like I know no matter what happens I’m going to be safe with you and I know it’s not just me. You’d do the same for Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle too. For everypony. Not just here in Ponyville, but all of Equestria. It’s like you’re protecting us. Like you’ve always been protecting us and keeping us safe. I just never noticed before,” as Scootaloo starts scratching her cheek a bit embarrassed, she said, “Uh, I don’t know where I was going with this, but I just wanted to say thanks, I guess.”

As Spike let off a little giggle, Scootaloo said, “See? I told you it was going to sound weird.”

As Spike gently shook his head, he said, “No Scootaloo. It doesn’t sound weird to me at all. Thank you. That’s one of the nicest things anyone has ever said to me.”

Seeing a smile come on to Spike’s face and happy with what she said, Scootaloo continued to eat her ice-cream sundae as Spike enjoyed his coffee. 

Just then, Apple Bloom comes bursting into Sugarcube Corner followed by Sweetie Belle. “There ya are, Scootaloo. We’ve been looking all over for ya,” Apple Bloom said, as she made her way over to the table before looking at Spike and saying, “Howdy, Spike.”

“Hi, Apple Bloom. Hi, Swee-“ 

Spike was cut off by Sweetie Belle jumping up and hugging him. As she hugged him, she giggled and said, “Hi, big bro.”

Spike laughed and hugged her back as he said, “Hey, little sis,” getting another laugh out of her as she broke the hug.

Apple Bloom shook her head and smiled as she said, “You know he’s not your big brother till tomorrow, right?”

Scootaloo chimed in, “And that the wedding is for him and Rarity, not so you get a new big brother.”

Sweetie Belle just shrugs her shoulders at them both as she says, “It’s all the same. I get a new big brother. Don’t get me wrong, Rarity’s great and all, but I always wanted a big brother to play with.”

Spike laughed and said, “And I’ve never had a little sister before, so I can’t wait.” As he smiled at Sweetie Belle he asks, “Did you guys want anything while you’re here? My treat?”

“Thank ya kindly, Spike, but we’re gonna have to take a rain check on that. We have plans to go and play with Diamond Tiara today,” Apple Bloom said as she smiled at him.

Just then Scootaloo smacked her forehead and said, “Was that today?”

Sweetie Belle squeaked as she said, “Don’t tell me you forgot? Why do you think we’ve been looking all over Ponyville for you? Just what have you been doing that was so important that you forgot about our plans?”

Scootaloo giggled nervously and she tried to think of something to say before Spike said, “That was my fault, girls. I was doing something and Scootaloo was giving me a hoof. Sorry about that.”

“Well, I guess it couldn’t be helped then, but we really need to go. Otherwise we’re going to be late,” Apple Bloom said as she looked at her friends.

“Right. Let's go then,” Sweetie Belle said as she and Apple Bloom started running towards the door and they both shouted, “See you later, Spike,” as he waved goodbye to them.

Scootaloo stood up and started to run towards the door as she said, “Wait for me,” before stopping and taking one last look at Spike and shouted, “Thanks again for everything, Spike. See ya later.”

Spike just chuckled and waved as he watched the little filly disappear out of Sugarcube Corner before ordering another coffee and watched the ponies living there day to day lives as they pass by the window. As he took a sip of his coffee, he couldn’t help but giggle as he thought, “I hope those little fillies don’t get into too much trouble.”

After finishing his coffee, Spike decided to go for a walk to kill some time. He even went to the tree where he asked Rarity to marry him and after a while he decided to go back home. As he was making his way back to the castle he saw the CMC and Diamond Tiara covered head to hoof in mud, being lectured by Spoiled Rich. Curious about what was going on, Spike walked over to see what the problem was.

As he got closer he heard Spoiled Rich say, “Diamond Tiara, what have I told you about playing with these country bumpkins,” as the CMC gave Spoiled Rich a sour look after being insulted.

Diamond Tiara stepped forward and looked at her mother as she said, “Mother! These are my friends. Please don’t be so mea-“

“And today of all days when you’re father is bringing some important ponies over to discuss some very important business,” Spoiled Rich said, cutting Diamond Tiara off. As Spoiled Rich looked at her daughter she continued, “I’ve allowed you more freedom and I even tolerate the fact that you are friends with them, but you need to understand that you are a member of the upper crust and spending too much time with them will hurt you in the long run. Why can’t you see I’m just doing what’s best for you.”  

Just as Diamond Tiara was about to say something, Spike stepped in and said, “Your mother’s right,” shocking everypony there, even Spoiled Rich. Before anypony had a chance to say anything a grin came onto Spike’s face as he continued to say, “But luckily for you, the CMC don’t care about social standing, cuz if they did they wouldn’t associate with lesser ponies, like your mother.”

As Scootaloo let out a few sneakers of laughter, Spoiled Rich turned to look at Spike and said, “Are you suggesting that they are too good for my little Diamond?” 

Choosing not to answer Spoiled Rich, Spike looked at Diamond Tiara and said, “Clearly, you get your smarts from your dad and not your mom, cuz if she had any brains she’d realize that Scootaloo is the little sister of one of the best, if not the best flyer in all of Equestria, and a member of the elite wonder bolts, Rainbow Dash. Sweetie Belle is the little sister of my soon-to-be wife, Rarity, one of Equestria’s greatest fashion designers and Apple Bloom. Well, she is the little sister of Applejack, one of the hardest working ponies around, not to mention she will one day inherit the title of the head of the apple family; a family that is spread all over Equestria and has more land and bits than any pony. They just put it all back into their businesses.” As Spike giggled he said, “Oh yeah, I almost forgot. Their sisters are some of the greatest heroes Equestria has ever known. That’s who these little fillies are.”

As Spike turns to look at Spoiled Rich, he grins and says, “What is it you’ve done again?” as his grin gets bigger he says, “Oh yeah, that’s right. You pretend to be more than you are while your husband runs a little shop, a shop, if I understand rightly, he only got because of the apple family.”

Spoiled Rich looked at Spike with venom in her eyes as she shot back, “And what would you know? You may be bigger now, but all you are is a pet that the princess allows to help her. If I was the princess, I would have gotten rid of you a long time ago.” She said as she stood there with a grin on her face as the little fillies all looked shocked at what she just said.

Before any of them had a chance to say anything, Spike burst out laughing, surprising everyone. As he wiped a tear from his eye, he said, “That’s a good one. I haven’t heard that one in a long time.” As he got closer to Spoiled Rich’s face, Spike smiled showing off his sharp teeth as he said, “I assure you, little pony, I am much more than a pet.”

Seeing his teeth, Spoiled Rich took a worrying step back as a bead of sweat came down her forehead. Just then, out the corner of her eye, she saw two royal guards and shouted, “Guards, help this creature is attacking me!” As a grin came on her face.

The two guards came running over and one of them asked, “What’s going on here?”

Spoiled Rich turned to look at them and put on her best acting chops as she said, “This dragon was threatening to attack me and these little ones, please help us!”

In unison the four fillies said, “WHAT!?!”

Before any of them had a chance to say anything, the other guard raised an eye and said, “Wait, this dragon right here?” as he pointed at Spike. Seeing her nod, the guards looked at each other before bursting out into laughter.

Shocked by their reaction, Spoiled Rich said, “What’s so funny about this?”

As one of the guards tried to stop laughing, he said, “Look lady, that’s Spike the Dragon. He wouldn’t hurt a fly,” as his laughter stopped he got a serious look on his face as he looked at Spoiled Rich and said, “Well, that is unless that fly tried to hurt somepony he cared about and if that was the case, I wouldn’t like to be that fly, and there’s not a Royal Guard in Equestria that’s stupid enough to try and stop him either. Even when Spike was still a baby, he could beat a squadron of royal guards without breaking a sweat. The only one that could fight him to a standstill was the former Captain of the Guard Prince Shining Armor, and even then you could tell they were both holding back.”

The other guard chimed in by saying, “Heck, now he’s grown up, if he got serious I’d wager that the only ones strong enough to stop him would be the princesses themselves, and even then it would probably take all four of them.” As the two guards looked at Spike, he smiled and gave them a quick wink before they both looked at each other and smiled, realizing that Spike was just teaching the mare a lesson before the one guard said, “Well, we best be off. Congrats on the wedding, Spike. We’re all looking forward to it.”

As they both started to walk off waving, Spike said, “Yeah, thanks guys. See ya tomorrow.”

As Spoiled Rich stood there watching them walk away, she heard the guards say, “See, this is why I like to come to Sweet Apple Acres and get my own apples. It’s never a dull moment around here.”

The other guard said, “Can you believe that crazy mare wanting us to try and stop Spike? What’s up with the ponies around here? It’s like they don’t know who he is.” As they both started laughing, he then said, “Wait till we tell the others about this. They’re going to crack up when they hear this.” 

Just then, Scootaloo excitedly said, “Wow, Spike. I had no idea you were so strong,” as she and the other fillies all giggled and agreed with each other.

Spoiled Rich slowly turned around to look at Spike as he let off a light chuckle and said, “I’m not that strong. I think they were just being nice,” as he looked at Spoiled Rich, he grinned and said, “I am Twilight’s number one assistant for a reason after all. I was trained in all sorts growing up. Celestia saw to that.” As Spike saw a nervous Spoiled Rich still looking at him, he continued to say, “I was hatched and raised in the capital. From your point of view, I would be considered an elite upper crust pony. After all, some of my oldest and closest friends are ponies like Fancy Pants and Fleur de Lis.” Seeing Spoiled Rich’s mouth drop open at hearing some of Equestria’s most well known high end ponies made Spike grin even more as he said, “Only silly ponies judge a book by its cover. Wouldn’t you agree, Mrs. Rich?”

Snapping out of her shock as she looked at Spike smiling at her, she understood that he was giving her an out. A way to apologize and still save face. So after clearing her throat she said, “Yes, quite right, Spike. Girls, I’m sorry for snapping like that and to you as well, Spike. I tend to get a bit carried away sometimes. I just worry about my little Diamond so much,” as she lowered her head to them all to show she really was sorry.

As Spoiled Rich raised her head to look at Diamond Tiara, she said, “But with that being said, my little Diamond, that still doesn’t excuse you coming back covered in mud knowing full well that it’s an important day for your father.”

As Spoiled Rich looked at her daughter, she was waiting for her to protest her innocence or make up some kind of excuse. So she was shocked when Diamond Tiara lowered her head sadly and said, “Yes mother. You’re right. I’m sorry. I guess I was just having so much fun that I got carried away.”

Surprised by her honesty, Spoiled Rich gave a little smile as she thought, “Hmm. It seems spending time with these filly friends of hers is starting to rub off on her,” before she cleared her throat and said, “I’m glad you understand. I suppose these things happen from time to time. We should get you cleaned up before your father gets back and we can talk of a suitable punishment later.”

Seeing her daughter nod her head in understanding, Spoiled Rich looked over at the CMC girls and said, “Your friends best come with you. I can’t send them back to their parents looking like that.” Seeing the smile on her daughters face, Spoiled Rich couldn’t help but smile as she said, “I’ll have Randolph, prepare some dinner for you all as well while you get cleaned up.”

Watching the girls get excited about getting to go to Diamond Tiara’s house to play for the first time, Spoiled Rich couldn’t help but chuckle a bit as she stood next to Spike and watched them. She said, “I’m sorry, Spike. I didn’t mean to call you a pet.” After a quick sigh and turning to look at Spike, she said, “No, that’s a lie. I did. It’s just I want so bad to give her the best in life that I will do anything to make that happen. I guess I’ve got so used to hurting others and fighting for what I want to give her, I sometimes forget that she is just a child and just to let her have fun. I am sorry though,” she said as she gave him a smile.

Spike smiled back and said, “It’s only natural to want to give your child the best in life, but take a look at that,” as he pointed to the fillies all jumping around happily making plans for when they go over to Diamond Tiara’s house to play, Spoiled Rich watched as Spike continued to say, “You’re not the only one fighting for her. She’s made some true friends that will stand by her side no matter what. Even if she lost everything, she will never be alone. She’ll always have a place at their side.”

Spoiled Rich couldn’t help but give a warm smile as she heard Spike say that and watched the little fillies playing together before she said, “I suppose your right. Thank you, Spike.”

Just then from behind her, Spoiled Rich heard her husband’s voice as he said, “Speak of the mare.”

As she turned around she saw Filthy Rich walking up to her with two very posh looking ponies as she smiled nervously at her husband and said, “Darling, what are you doing here? I wasn’t expecting you for a few more hours.”

Filthy Rich laughed as he hugged his wife and gave her a quick peck on the cheek before he said, “Well, we thought we’d get an earlier train.”

Diamond Tiara happily came running over, hearing her father’s voice and went to give him a hug before Filthy Rich stuck out his hoof to stop her and gave her a raised eyebrow as he said, “Diamond Tiara, just what in Celestia have you been doing? Look at the state of you. You knew daddy had some important ponies coming to visit daddy’s business today.”

Diamond Tiara lowered her head and looked sadly at the floor as she said, “Yes, daddy. I’m sorry. I was playing with my friends and things kind of got out of hoof.”

Just then Filthy Rich rubbed Diamond Tiara’s head, making her look up at him as he gave her a loving smile and said, “Seems I’m not the only one who’s had a busy day. It's only mud just as long as you’re not hurt. I’m happy you had fun, but let’s not make this a habit ok?”

Giving him a big smile Diamond Tiara said, “Yes, daddy.”

Seeing the CMC come running over to stand next to Diamond Tiara, Filthy Rich just chuckled looking at the state of them all as he thought, “I wonder what adventure they went on today.” Before he cleared his throat and said, “Please forgive my daughter's appearance, but I’d like to introduce my family,” as he turned to look at the two ponies behind him. He then pointed to Diamond Tiara and Spoiled Rich.

As the two ponies stepped forward the mare giggled slightly and said, “That’s quite alright, Mr. Rich. Children will be children after all.”

As the stallion laughed, he said, “It’s the job of the young to get up to mischief. It’s what keeps us adults on our hooves after all.”

Filthy Rich laughed and said, “So true. Dear, Diamond, this is Mr. and Mrs. Oran-

Just then, Apple Bloom cut him off by screaming, “Aunt and Uncle Orange! What in Celestia are ya doing here? It’s not time for an apple family reunion?”

They both laughed as Aunt Orange said, “No little, Apple Bloom, it’s not. We’re thinking of selling our orange jams here at Mr. Rich’s Barnyard Bargains. And I must say from everything we’ve heard from Granny Smith, it’s looking like a good business opportunity for both parties involved.” 

Uncle Orange smiled at the little filly as he said, “We wanted to get a sense of what his business and family were like. As you know, we may not have apples on our flanks, but we’re apples at the core and that means family.” Making Apple Bloom giggle before he said, “We also still need to go over the finer details with Granny Smith. Celestia knows what she’d do to us if we went and did this behind her back after all.”

Apple Bloom laughed a bit louder and said, “Good call. I wouldn’t want to imagine what would happen.”

Spoiled Rich stood there with her mouth slightly open as she thought, “These high class ponies are a part of the apple family? It’s just like Spike said earlier; the apple family are all over the place.”

As Aunt Orange saw the look on Spoiled Rich’s face, she giggled and said, “We may not look the part of farmers, but I can assure you we have no problems getting our hooves dirty for our business. But like all apples at the core, family is first and foremost. So it’s important to us that anypony we do business with understands that value. I’m curious, Mrs. Rich. What part do you play in your family business? We’ve heard from Mr. Rich how much time and care he puts into Barnyard Bargains but what is it that you do?”

Snapping out of her train of thought, Spoiled Rich started to nervously giggle as she rubbed her head, not knowing what to say. After all she understood how important this was to her husband’s business, but she was a housewife. Most of her days were spent bossing Randolph around and trying to teach Diamond Tiara how to be better than everypony else.

Diamond Tiara seeing her mother getting nervous, stepped forward and said, “My mother has an active role in the community of Ponyville and is head of the school board.” Seeing Aunt Orange look at her, Diamond Tiara got a grin on her face much like when she would plan to do something bad back in the old days when she didn’t like the CMC, which made Spoiled Rich very nervous, as Diamond Tiara continued to say, “However, since I am now getting older, my mother has started to look more into how my father runs Barnyard Bargains. In fact, just a few moments before you turned up, she was saying how important it was for me to understand how our business was started and how important it was to understand how it was a family-run business and that family was at the core of how Barnyard Bargains should be run. That's something we have learnt by doing business with the apple family for so long, no doubt.”

As Diamond Tiara watched her father raise an eyebrow at what she was saying, Aunt and Uncle Orange both smiled in understanding. Just then, a grin came onto Apple Bloom’s face, much like the one Diamond Tiara had, as she stood next to her friend.

“That’s right, Aunt and Uncle Orange. Which is why starting next week after school, Diamond Tiara will be working on the farm with me,” Apple Bloom said with a smile. Before she continued to say, “Mrs. Rich said she couldn’t think of a better way for Diamond to understand how Barnyard Bargains was started than to start at the farm where it all began.”

Just then, Uncle Orange spoke up, “Well it’s clear to me that the Rich family understands how important family is in business and that having good relationships with their business partners is key. Well said, children.”

As Spoiled Rich breathed a sigh of relief, Apple Bloom chuckled and grinned at her before saying, “Oh, that’s not all. Mrs. Rich said since Diamond Tiara is getting older now, she wants to get more hooves on and involved in the family business. That is why starting next week she will be working at the farm alongside Diamond Tiara. She said it will be a good way to spend more time with Diamond as well, killing two birds with one stone as the saying goes.”

Filthy Rich’s mouth fell open as Aunt and Uncle Orange beamed with delight. Spoiled Rich, on the other hoof, was completely in shock and her eyes were as big as dinner plates. This is when Spike leaned over and whispered in her ear with a little giggle, “Those little fillies can be quite crafty when they want to be. It seems they didn’t take too kindly to being called country bumpkins. I guess this is going to be your punishment, so let this be a lesson to you. Don’t get on their bad side. Because you’ll never beat the CMC,” as Spike continued to chuckle, he said, “On the plus side, you couldn’t ask for three greater fillies to stand by your daughters side.”

Hearing what Spike said snapped Spoiled Rich back into reality and as she saw the Oranges and Filthy Rich looking at her, she whispered to Spike, “I suppose your right. Those fillies got me good.” As she saw the excited smile on Diamond Tiara’s face as she put an arm around Apple Bloom and giggled, Spoiled Rich couldn’t help but smile warmly as she said, “But as punishments go, I don’t think getting to spend more time with my daughter is much of one. If it makes my little Diamond this happy, then that’s fine by me.”

Spoiled Rich cleared her throat and looked at Filthy Rich as she said, “Like Apple Bloom said, I want our little Diamond to understand how Barnyard Bargains started, and since I also want to get more involved, I thought we could do it together. I hope that’s ok with you, dear.”

Filthy Rich beamed with pride when he heard Spoiled Rich say that and said, “Are you kidding? I couldn’t be happier,” as he passionately kissed her. The kiss didn’t last long as the giggling from the fillies and hearing Scootaloo say it was gross, made them stop.

Spoiled Rich moved her face away from Filthy Rich, a bit flustered and said, “Dear, not in front of company.”

This made Filthy Rich give off a low giggle as he whispered in her ear, “Then I guess we’ll just have to pick this up later.” Making Spoiled Rich go bright red in the face.

Just then, Filthy Rich cleared his throat and said, “Where are my manners? We got so caught up in business talk that I forgot to introduce everyone.” Filthy looked at the Oranges and said, “These little fillies are my daughters other friends, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Together with Apple Bloom they are known all over Ponyville as the CMC.”

As the girls happily waved at the Oranges, Aunt Orange giggled as she said, “Oh, we are well aware of the CMC, thanks to Apple Bloom.”

Filthy Rich laughed as he said, “Yes, I suppose you would be,” before looking at Spike and saying, “And this here is Ponyville’s resident dragon and number one assistant to the Princess of Friendship, Spi-“

Uncle Orange laughed, cutting Filthy Rich off and said, “Oh, Mr. Rich, we are well aware of who this dragon is,” as he looked at Spike and smiled. Before he continued to say, “Hello, Spike. It’s been awhile has it not? Congratulations by the way on your wedding tomorrow.”

Spike laughed and said, “Yes, it has been some time, and thank you very much, Mr. Orange.”

“Wait a minute here,” Apple Bloom said jumping in and looking at Spike before saying, “How do you know my Aunt and Uncle Orange?”

This made the three of them laugh as Aunt Orange said, “Why, little Apple Bloom, there isn’t a high class pony in all of a Equestria that doesn’t know of Spike the Dragon. After all, he grew up in Canterlot Castle and was always around at parties and such with his friends. In fact, if memory serves, Spike here was there the day your uncle asked me to marry him.”

Seeing the shocked look on Apple Bloom's face, Spike laughed and said, “Yeah, that’s right. I was with Fancy Pants and the others,” as Spike scratched his head, he continued to say, “Though I was a lot smaller back then,” making Aunt and Uncle Orange laugh.

“Hmm, I had no idea,” Filthy Rich said with a smile as he looked at Spike before he said, “We should probably get going to speak to Granny Smith and get this business sorted with before it gets too late.”

Aunt and Uncle Orange both nodded in agreement and then Aunt Orange looked at Apple Bloom as she said, “You should probably come with us, dear. You’re caked in mud and could do with a good bath.”

Before Apple Bloom had a chance to say anything, Spoiled Rich cleared her throat and said, “Actually, I told Diamond she could bring her friends over to ours to get cleaned up and I thought they could play in her room for a bit while we get some dinner started for them. You don’t mind, do you, dear?”

Seeing the hopeful smiles of his daughter and her friends, Filthy Rich laughed as he said, “No, not at all. Just as long as they don’t get too carried away.” Seeing the little fillies jumping around in excitement, Filth Rich couldn’t help but smile as he looked at his wife watching them as she let out a little giggle and smiled at the girls.

As Spoiled Rich looked over at her husband and saw him smiling at her, she blushed a little before moving a bit of her mane out of her face as she cleared her throat and said, “Yes, well since you’ve got to go past their homes, would you mind just letting Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo’s parents know where they are and tell them I’ll escort them home later?”

Filthy Rich couldn’t help but giggle a little at how cute Spoiled Rich was acting before he said, “Yeah, can do.”

“Well I should probably get going myself,” Spike said with a smile as everyone looked at him. “I got a big day tomorrow and I need to get an early night. I got a feeling it’s going to be a long day.” Seeing the other adults snickering, he looked at the Oranges and said, “Mr. and Mrs. Orange, always a pleaser,” before giving a little bow then looked at Filthy Rich and Spoiled Rich as he said, “Take care.” Before he started to walk away, as he waved, he shouted back, “Oh yeah, girls. Have fun and try not to give Mrs. Rich too much of a headache.”

To which the four fillies giggled and shouted back in unison, “We will,” as they waved back and Spoiled Rich could be heard saying, “What!?!” As he saw the little fillies run off and Spoiled Rich chasing after them while Filthy Rich and the Oranges started making their way to the apple farm laughing.

Now walking back into the castle, Spike let out a happy sigh as he said to himself, “Well, it’s been an interesting day to say the least.” After making some dinner and deciding to just take it easy with a good book, Spike couldn’t help but wonder what his friends and his beloved were up to as he took a sip of coffee and smiled.




************




Rarity is walking down the corridor with a smile on her face and a bounce in her step as Fleur de Lis happily giggles as she says, “I must say, Rarity, I was half expecting you to be a mess. I mean it is the day before the wedding. Celestia knows I was all over the place the day before my and Fancy’s big day.”

Rarity smiles at her friend and says, “Yes, I imagine I would have been if not for the help of my friends. With Twilight’s organization and planning skills, I haven’t really had to do anything. Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Starlight are setting up the room while Pinkie Pie is baking her heart out with Chef Walnut. I tried to help, but Twilight insisted that I not lift a hoof. Applejack has even brought some of her family’s famous apple cider. I tried to tell her she didn’t have to, but she said it’s an apple family tradition. When I pointed out we weren’t apples, she just laughed and said, ‘You and Spike may not be apples on the outside, but the way I see it yer apples at the core and that’s good enough for me.’ Rarity said with a warm smile as a tear came down her cheek.

Fleur de Lis giggled slightly as she wiped a tear from her friends face and said, “It must be hard for one so generous to be on the receiving end of all that generosity and kindness.”

Rarity giggled a bit and said, “Yes, it’s a lot to take in. To be blessed with such wonderful friends and a dragon that loves me so, I wonder sometimes how I got so lucky.”

Fleur de Lis just smiled as they came to a stop outside of a guest room and as Rarity pushed the door open, they made their way inside. When they went into the room, Opalescence greeted her owner with a quick rub around her legs as she purred and then found a nice cool place on the floor to sleep. Fleur de Lis just stood there for a few moments before she let out a gasp and said, “Oh Rarity. It’s beautiful.”

“Thank you. It was quite hard to make without Spikey seeing it,” She said with a giggle as they both stood looking at Rarity’s wedding dress before Rarity continued to say, “And thank you for suggesting we hold the reception in the garden. It will give the guest more room to move around instead of trying to cram them all into one room.”

Fleur de Lis giggled slightly before smiling and saying, “Well, in truth, that garden holds some great memories for me.” As she saw Rarity smiling warmly at her Fleur de Lis askes, “But still, I wonder why Princess Celestia told Spike he wasn’t allowed in Canterlot till tomorrow.”

Rarity thought for a moment before she said, “Maybe it’s the same reason why Twilight and the girls don’t want me to help; they want to give us the perfect day and don’t want us to worry about anything. And you know Spike. If he were here, he would be running around trying to help everypony set everything up. That’s just what he does. He can’t stop himself,” making her and Fleur de Lis bust into a fit of giggles.

As the laughter died down, there was a knock on the open door. Rarity looked over and saw Rose standing there with a smile and said, “Rose, dear. What a pleasant surprise. Please come in.” 

As Rose starts to walk into the room, she says, “Hi, Rarity. I just thought I’d let you know that all the flowers were delivered and have all been sorted now.”

As she comes further into the room, Rarity smiles and says, “Thank you, darling. I’m sure it looks wonderful.” Before looking at Fleur de Lis and saying, “Forgive my rudeness, Fleur de Lis, this is Rose. She owns the best flower shop in Ponyville. I dare say in all of Equestria.”

Rose goes to shake Fleur de Lis’s hoof with a smile. But just then, everything was happening in slow motion. Rose stood on Opalescence’s tail making the cat hiss as she shot across the room and scratched and clawed her way up Rarity’s wedding dress, before using it as a stepping stone to reach a high book shelf for safety, knocking it to the floor in the process as some books fall from the shelf onto the desk below, which in turn knocked some ink onto the floor and all over the white dress, now on the floor.

For a few moments nopony said anything. They just stood in utter shock at what just happened as Opalescence lay perched on the shelf, now cleaning her tail. Rose was the first to speak as she said, “Ra…Rarity, I…I’m so sor-

She was soon cut off by Rarity running over and clinging to her dress as she burst out into tears and screamed, “THIS IS THE WORST POSSIBLE THING!!!!!”




************


After stretching and finishing his book, Spike looked outside to realize it was now night time. He stood up and started making his way up to his old room to sleep, knowing full well that tomorrow was going to be one of the best days of his life. He wanted to make sure he was well rested and ready for what was going to be a long day. As he got into bed with a smile, he thought, “Tomorrow, my love. Sleep well.”


************



As the sleeping dragon laid peacefully asleep in his bed, he was awakened by a sudden loud noise. As he shot up in surprise and ended up falling to the hard floor below, “AAAHHH!!! What’s going on? What’s happening?” Spike said as he looked around in a haze.

“Why it’s your wedding day Spike. That’s what’s happening.” The draconequus said with a little giggle as he floated in front of Spike before clicking his talons together to get rid of the oddly shaped Fluttershy alarm clock floating in mid air.

As Spike stood up rubbing his head and looked at Discord. He sighed and said, “Not that I don’t appreciate the wakeup call, Dizzy, but most creatures tend to do it without giving someone a heart attack.”

Discord giggled and smiled at hearing Spike call him Dizzy, before saying, “But I had to wake you up for your big day and where’s the fun in waking someone up like everypony else? I am the lord of chaos after all. You can’t expect me to be like every other creature. Could you imagine how boring that would be if I was?” The draconequus said with a disgruntled look on his face, making Spike chuckle a bit.

“Anyway, hurry up and go take a shower. Otherwise, your breakfast will get cold,” Discord said as he clicked his talons once again, making Spike’s bed for him as he started to walk out of the room.

Spike raised an eye as he asked, “You made me breakfast? Is it safe to eat?”

Discord turned to look at Spike with a shocked look on his face as he said, “I am capable of doing things normally you know. I just choose not to. Now hurry up or you’re going to be late for your own wedding,” as he walked out the room closing the door behind him.

After having a shower and making his way to the dining room to eat, Spike was pleasantly surprised to see Discord had made some haycakes and coffee for him. As he sat down and started to eat, he looked at Discord and said, “Thanks, Discord. These are pretty good.” As he sipped some coffee, he saw a small smile on Discord’s face, before saying, “After I’ve eaten, I’ve got to go grab Big Mac and the girls. Then, we can go to Canterlot.”

Discord chuckled a bit as he said, “No need. I’ve already dropped them off at Canterlot.”

Getting a bad feeling in his gut and seeing the grin come onto Discord’s face, Spike asked, “Discord, tell me you didn’t wake them up the same way you did me?”

Discord laughed and said, “You should have seen their faces.” As Discord clicked his talons, he grinned as photos of Big Mac and the CMC girls appeared in front of Spike as he said, “Oh wait, you can.”

Spike looked at the photos of the terrified faces of said ponies and said with a sigh, “I told you waking somepony up like that wasn’t a good idea,” as the photos disappeared. Spike took a sip of his coffee before saying, “I wonder what ponies will say when they hear Discord, Lord of Chaos and Disharmony, is being so helpful and punctual, I mean, that doesn’t sound very chaotic after all,” Spike said with a grin.

Discord laughed and said, “And this is why I am the Lord of Chaos. After all, everyone expects me to be late and do some crazy stuff. So what better way to throw them all off than by doing everything on time and right for a change? They’ll never see it coming. That’s what makes chaos so much fun: the not knowing,” as he continued to chuckle.

Spike just rolled his eyes as he grinned before finishing his haycakes and coffee. After breakfast was done, he cleaned up a bit before looking at Discord and saying, “Well, I think we’re good to go. You mind popping us to Canterlot?”

Discord gave Spike a funny look as he said, “What am I? Your taxi? You can do it yourself.”

Spike just ginned and said, “Nope. You’re my best draconequus. It's your job to help me today.” As Spike’s grin got bigger, he laughed as he said, “And can’t you just imagine the smile on Fluttershy’s face when she finds out just how much help you’ve been?”

Discord’s face went red as he started to mumble something before he brought his talons together and said, “That’s a dirty trick, Spike. Well played.” As Discord clicked his talons together, he couldn’t help but smile as a flash of light came over them both.

Now standing in a corridor of Canterlot Castle, Spike chuckled as he looked at Discord and said, “Thanks. Now I guess all I need to do is find my room and get dressed.”

And just as Spike finished saying that, Shining Armor came walking down the hall and said, “Hey, Spike. Right on time. Come on, little bro. Can’t have your big day without the right clothes.”

Spike smiled and said, “Hey, Shining,” as he gave his brother a quick hug before laughing and saying, “Could you imagine what Rarity would do to me? I don’t think even Celestia would be able to stop her if I turned up without my suit. Especially today,” making Discord and Shining Armor laugh.

As Shining Armor and Spike started walking off, they turned to look at Discord as Spike said, “Aren’t you coming? I mean you need to get dressed as well, right?”

Discord just grinned as he clicked his talons and was now standing there in an orange suite as he said, “Done. Now I’m going to go see what fun I can have before all this boring wedding stuff starts.”

As he starts to float off down the hall, Spike and Shining Armor look at one another before Spike said, “Say hi to Fluttershy for us,” with a grin.

Discord stopped in his tracks and looked back over his shoulder and glared at Spike who was now giggling. Before huffing and saying, “I’m sure I don’t know what you mean,” and continued on his way down the hall.

As Spike stopped laughing, Shining Armor looked at him and said, “You sure it’s such a good idea to wind him up on your wedding day, Spike? I mean he is still the Lord of Chaos.”

Spike just smiled and said, “Don’t worry about it. Discord knows I’m only playing. Besides, he and I both know that’s exactly where he’s going. You heard him yourself. He’s going to go have fun. He may be chaotic, but his idea of a fun time is getting to be around Fluttershy.”

Shining Armor grinned as he looked at Spike and said, “Oh, just like a certain little dragon and his lady?”

Spike smiled as he nodded and said, “Exactly. Just lik-“ Spike stopped hearing Shining Armor giggling and said, “Hey! I see what you did there.”

As they both started to laugh, they made their way down the corridor and into a room. Once inside, Spike walked over to a hanging rack to take his suit out of its black protective cover, so he could get dressed. As he unzipped it, he looked at the suit inside with a confused face and pulled it out and turned to look at Shining Armor while holding it in claw as he said, “Hey, what gives? This isn’t the suit I was meant to wear, this is-“

Shining Armor smiled and said, “No, it’s the suit Celestia wants you to wear. Don’t worry. Rarity approved it as well.” Cutting Spike off.

“Bu…but Shining, this is Royal Guard formal wear. I was never in the guard. Plus, it's captain class. It’s just like your one,” Spike said as he looked at his brother.

Shining Armor giggled as he made his way over to Spike and placed a hoof on his shoulder, before saying, “Spike, you may not have been a member of the Royal Guard, but you trained with us. Heck, there isn’t a guard in Equestria that doesn’t know about you. The way I see it, you’ve been guarding our sister and keeping her and the others safe for a long time now. As far as any of us are concerned, you may not hold the title, but you are most definitely a knight of Equestria, little brother." 

Spike just stood there speechless as he thought, “Sure it’s no secret amongst the Royal Guard that I can hold my own and I’m pretty good with a sword, but this...” 

As Spike looked at the suit and back at his brother’s smiling face, he said, “Shining, it’s not that I’m not grateful, cuz I am, but I can’t wear this. It's captain class. You know better than any there is only one Captain of the Royal Guard at any given time. That’s the reason you had to forfeit the role when you moved to the Crystal Empire.”

Shining Armor just happily smiled as he listened to Spike finish and then said, “Yep, that’s right. There is only one captain of the Royal Guard at a time. That’s the way it’s always been.” As he laughed he said, “But I think you are forgetting something, Spike.” As Spike looked at Shining Armor, he continued, “Celestia makes the rules. She can change them as well.” Just as Spike was about to say something, Shining Armor stopped him by saying, “Besides, both the current captain and the princesses agreed that it was ok since you’re not an official Royal Guard. Just think of this as your wedding gift from the guards.” As Shining Armor smiled lovingly at Spike, he said, “This is their way of saying that any Royal Guard would proudly follow you into battle and so would I.” 

As a tear rolled down Spike’s face, Shining Armor wiped it away and said, “Now hurry up and get dressed. You wouldn’t want to disappoint anypony would you.”

Spike just smiled before shaking his head and decided to get dressed. After putting on the suit he turned to look at Shining Armor and said, “Well, what do you think?”

Shining Armor smiled as he chuckled and said, “It looks good on you, Spike. I mean, not as good as it does on me, but it’s a close second.”

Spike grinned and said, “Oh really? Then maybe I should have been a royal guard instead of Twi’s number one assistant. I mean you never could beat me in a fight.”

Shining Armor let out a big fake laugh as he patted Spike’s head a big harder than needed before he said, “Oh, Spike, we both know I was going easy on you back in the training days. Don’t let all this attention go to your head, little brother.”

As Spike pushed Shining Armor’s hoof away from his head, he said, “Oh really? Cuz if memory serves, it was me that was taking it easy on you!” As he fake giggled.

Shining Armor smirked and said, “Oh, how cute. Well, you were a baby dragon. You probably just couldn’t tell. Not to brag little brother, but I could of beat you blind folded.”

“Oh, yeah? Well I could have beaten you with both claws tied behind my back.” Spike said as he smirked back.

Shining Armor pushed his nose against Spike’s and pushed Spike’s head back a little as he said, “Oh, really? I’d like to see you try!”

Spike not missing a beat, pushed back and said, “Fine by me. Just don’t come crying back to Cadance when I beat you!”

As they both stood there pushing their noses together and glaring at each other, both smirking, they were soon brought out of it with a smack to the head with some rolled up parchment. They looked over at the door to see Twilight with a not-so-happy face.

As they both went to say something, Twilight just stood there with her rolled up parchment in her magic and said, “I came to check up on you and make sure things were running on time and what do I find when I get here? Both my brother’s acting like foals.”

Spike whispered to Shining Armor, “Oh great. Another Twilight lecture.” Getting a laugh out of him, before they both got another smack to the head with the rolled up parchment.

“I’ll never understand why guys feel the need to see who has the bigger ego.” Twilight said as she sighed.

“Aww, come on, Twily. We were just playing around. Right, Spike?” Shining Armor said as he smiled at Spike.

“Yeah, it was just a bit of harmless fun between brothers. No need to get so worked up, Twi,” Spike replied as he smiled.

Looking at both her brother’s smiling faces, Twilight just shook her head before rolling her eyes and made her way over to them. After giving Shining Armor a quick hug, she went to give Spike one before stopping and using her magic to sort out his collar as she said, “There, perfect.”

Spike laughed and pulled her into a hug as he said, “Thanks, sis.”

After breaking the hug, Twilight sat there with a warm smile on her face and said, “My little dragon’s all grown up,” making Spike chuckle slightly.

“Aww, come on, Twily. Don’t start getting all mushy on him,” Shining Armor said as he looked at his sister.

“I’m his big sister. It’s my right to get mushy about him on his wedding day,” she said it so straight faced that it sounded like it was a fact out of one of her books.

Spike couldn’t help but laugh, before he said, “That just means it’s your turn to get married next, Twi.” Before he gave her a chance to object or say anything, Spike grinned and continued, “I’m sure your prince charming is out there somewhere.”

Seeing the slight blush come onto Twilight’s face, Shining Armor held his head up with pride and said, “Hmmm. well, anyone that wants to get to my little sis is gonna have to go through me first.”

“Oh, please Shin-“ Twilight started to say as Spike laughed out loud cutting her off.

Spike finished laughing and said, “Don’t worry about that, bro. After all, I’m a dragon and we don’t give our treasure away to just anyone,” as Spike looked at Twilight and smiled, he continued, “And she is one of the rarest treasures of all, my one and only big sister. Only the best will do for her. Anything else will simply not do, and if they try they’ll be sorry.”

Twilight’s face got redder as she smiled at Spike and Shining Armor burst out laughing as he wrapped an arm around both his siblings and pulled them in close as he said, “You hear that world? Only the best for our sister. Anything else and you’ll answer to us.”

As Twilight went even redder in the face, Spike shouted out, “You got that right,” as him and Shining Armor started laughing.

After a few minutes of just enjoying the closeness of her brothers, Twilight broke the hug and said, “Ok, you two, whatever you say. Now I need to go get dressed. The guest will start arriving soon if they haven’t already.” As Twilight started making her way towards the door, she looked over her shoulder at Spike and said, “You look great, Spike. Rarity’s one lucky mare.”

Spike smiled at her and said, “Thanks, Twi.” Just then a look of horror came on to Spike’s face as he said, “Oh no. How could I have forgotten it?”

Twilight turned back around and asked, “What? What’s the matter, Spike?”

“I got distracted talking to Discord this morning and completely forgot to bring my sapphire necklace. It’s still on the bedside cabinet. I’ll have to quickly pop back and get it.”

Twilight breathed a sigh of relief, before saying, “Don’t worry and hold still.” Just then her horn lit up and a flash of purple light appeared around Spike's neck. When the light died down, Spike’s sapphire necklace was around his neck.

As Spike held the sapphire in his claw and looked at it sparkle, he looked at Twilight with the biggest of smiles and said, “Thanks, Twi. You really saved me. Rarity would have killed me if I forgot to wear this.”

Twilight just giggled as she started making her way back out the door and said, “What are sisters for? I’ll see you in a bit.”

As Spike looked at his sapphire necklace with a smile on his face, Shining Armor asked, “So you nervous?”

Spike giggled and said, “Na. I’ve been waiting for this day since the first moment I saw her.”

Shining Armor raised an eye and said, “What? You knew she would be the mare you married?”

Spike held his necklace in his claw and smiled as he said, “No, but I knew I loved her from the moment I saw her and I held out hope that she would love me back.” As Spike let go of the necklace, he looked at his big brother and said, “Besides, what mare could resist my charms?” As he giggled.

Shining Armor laughed as he wrapped his arm around Spike’s neck and started to give him a nuggy as he said, “I don’t know about that, little bro. Maybe you’re not as charming as you think. I mean, Rarity held out for quite awhile.”

Spike laughed as he pushed Shining Armor off him and said, “Hey, dragons are nothing if not patient, I’d wait an eternity for her.”

Shining Armor just laughed as he started to walk towards the door and as he looked back over his shoulder with a grin, he said, “Ok, Romeo, waitings over. Let’s go and get you married.”

Spike started to walk towards the door and said as he giggled, “You know, technically we’re already married, but it would be nice to see her in a wedding dress.” To which Shining Armor just rolled his eyes and laughed along as they made their way out of the room and down a few corridors before coming to a hall.

As Spike and Shining Armor made their way inside and started to walk down the aisle towards the altar, Spike was surprised to see it was already full of guests from all over Equestria. Dragons, Yaks, Changelings, Hippogriffs, Griffons, even some Crystal Ponies. Spike wondered how they managed to fit them all in. There were a lot of ponies from Ponyville as well. They were all smiling happily at him, some even giving him a wave. Spike started to smile nervously as he continued up the aisle as he could hear some ponies whispering about what he was wearing.

Shining Armor leaned over as they walked and said, “I thought you weren’t nervous,” as he grinned at his little brother.

Spike responded, “I’m not nervous about marrying Rarity, but you know how I get around big crowds,” as he waved back at a few of his friends in the crowd before letting off a quiet sigh and saying, “You sure this was a good idea, me wearing this?”

Shining Armor grinned as he placed a hoof on Spike’s shoulder and whispered, “They seem to be ok with it,” using his eyes to gesture to the Royal Guards around the outer edge of the room. As Spike looked where Shining Armor was looking, he could see the guards all standing proud with smiles on their faces as they watched them walking down the aisle.

Spike couldn’t help but smile at the sight and as they got closer to the altar. He spotted some of his friends from Canterlot in the crowd with some of the biggest smiles on their faces. He even saw Platinum Night and Hazel Walnut. As he got to the altar, he saw Ember, Garble, Novo, Rutherford, Thorax, Gilda and even grampa Gruff all sitting together. As Spike smiled at them all and gave them a quick wave, they all gave a quick slight bow of their heads to him, except Gruff, who was too busy complaining how uncomfortable the chairs were, which made Spike laugh.

Shining Armor pulled Spike into a hug and said, “Well, I got to go find my princess. It’s almost time.” As they broke their hug Spike watched Shining Armor walk off back out the hall.

A few moments after he left, Princess Celestia and Luna came walking out of a side room and walked onto the altar as they both smiled at Spike. Celestia stood there and held her hoof up and as she did the crowd of creatures went quiet and she said, “Mare’s and gentlecolts,” getting some funny looks from some of the creatures, Celestia blushed slightly and cleared her throat before saying, “Welcome everycreature. Please stand as the bride makes her way to the altar.” As soon as she said that, everyone stood as music began to play and the doors opened.

As everyone stood looking, the CMC happily made their way down the aisle spreading flowers as they went, with baby Fluffy Heart on Sweetie Belle’s back holding the rings. Shortly followed by Shining Armor and Cadance, as well as Fancy Pants and Fleur de Lis. Rainbow Dash and Applejack were next, then Discord and Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich. As each one made their way to the altar, they smiled at Spike. The guys stood by Spike’s side as the girls all stood to the right and waited for the bride, the last to come was Twilight and Blueblood. As they made their way up the aisle, Twilight couldn’t help but smile as tears began to flow down her cheeks.

As Spike stood there with a warm smile watching, Shining Armor leaned over and whispered, “Liquid pride,” as he laughed.

Spike not taking his eyes off his sister, simply said, “Yeah, I heard it runs in the family," as a tear came down his face.

As they got to the altar, Blueblood stepped to the side and stood by the others, Twilight didn’t move for a few moments and just stood there looking at Spike. As he looked back at her, Twilight smiled as Spike wiped the tears from her cheek and she said, “It’s time, Spike.”

Spike pulled her into a hug as a few tears rolled down his face and he said, “No matter what, I will always be your baby dragon and number one assistant. No power on this earth could ever change what you mean to me, Twi.”

As everyone watched, Twilight broke their hug and wiped the tears from Spike’s face as she said, “And I will always need my best friend and little brother by my side, now and always,” before gently kissing his forehead and standing by the other girls.

As Spike smiled at his sister and his friends, the wedding music started and as he looked over at the entrance, he saw Hondo Flanks all suited up and Rarity looking more beautiful than he ever thought possible. His jaw just stayed open as he watched his mare make her way towards him. As they stood in front of Spike, Hondo Flanks laughed as he said, “You know, son, you’re going to have to take her hoof. Otherwise, this isn’t going to be much of a wedding.”

Spike shook his head, bringing himself out of his trance as he took Rarity’s hoof and smiled as Hondo Flanks kissed his daughter before taking a seat. As Spike looked at her, he asked, “Tha…that dress?”

As Rarity giggled, she responded, “Yes, it goes well with the Fire Ruby, wouldn’t you say, my Spikey-wikey?”

Spike shook his head and said, “No, I mean yes, but I mean-“

Rarity placed a hoof over his mouth stopping him and smiled as she said, “I know what you mean, dear. There was a slight accident and the dress I had planned to wear got ruined. Luckily for us, we happen to know a mare that had a wedding dress I could use.” As Spike quickly looked over to Fleur de Lis as she giggled. 

Spike looked back at Rarity as she continued, “Although I was against it at first, she quickly reminded me that it was given to her by a dear friend when she was in need of a dress. She said that it only seemed right that she now passed it on to another friend in need. That, and if I was going to marry my prince I needed a princess dress,” Rarity giggled as she finished.

Spike held her cheek and as he moved in to kiss her, he whispered, “You’re no princess. You’re my queen,” before he passionately kissed her on the lips. As they continued their kiss, they were brought to a stop as Luna cleared her throat and said, “Correct me if I’m wrong dear sister, but I believe that comes at the end of the ceremony, not at the start.”

Hearing everyone snickering and laughing, Rarity and Spike broke their kiss now both with red faces. They turned to look at Celestia as Spike rubbed his head whilst giggling and Rarity was trying not to go any redder.

Celestia smiled warmly at them both before nodding her head and everyone sat back down. As Celestia took one last look around the room at all the creatures gathered for today, she turned back and looked at Spike and Rarity before she started, “Dear creatures of the world, we are gathered here today to bear witness to the union of Rarity and Spike. It is no secret to anyone here that they have done, along with their friends, some amazing things for all the creatures of this world.”

As Celestia said that, some of the crowd started shouting out random facts, “Nightmare Moon, Hero of the Crystal Empire, the Storm King, Chrysalis...” That’s when a loud bang went off and a spotlight went on to Discord as party streamers and confetti came down as he shouted out, “ME!!!” Making everyone burst out into laughter.

As the laughter died down, Celestia shook her head and finished giggling, before she said, “Like I was saying, it is no secret to anyone that they have been a big help and played some very important roles in making Equestria what it is today. The strength of their commitment is clear. The love they have, not only for each other, but their families and friends is undeniable,” as Celestia looks to the side, Cadance uses her magic to float Flurry Heart over with the rings. 

Floating in front of Spike and Rarity with a cushion that had two rings on, Flurry Heart starts to giggle and gurgle as she says, “Ike, Ike.” After Rarity and Spike both take a ring, Spike gave baby Flurry Heart a nuzzle and a quick kiss on the head, making her giggle some more before she was floated back over to Cadance.

As Spike placed a ring on Rarity’s horn and she placed a ring on his claw, they stood there and smiled at each other lovingly, as Celestia said, “By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Now, you may kiss your bride,” making a few of their friends chuckle.

As Rarity leaned in to kiss Spike, he grabbed her and spun her around and into a dip, which caught her by surprise as she looked up at him. He gave her that same goofy look she loved so much and as she placed a hoof on his cheek, she said, “You are such a dork sometimes, you know that Mr. The Dragon?” As he moved his face closer to hers.

Spike chuckled slightly and said, “Yeah, but now I’m your dork, Mrs. The Dragon.”

Rarity giggled and whispered, “You most certainly are mine,” before their lips connected. They stayed like that for a few seconds as the crowd roared and cheered and after breaking their kiss and holding each other for a moment. They soon found themselves being pulled in to hugs as their friends congratulated them both.

After a few moments, Celestia raised her hoof once again and the room went quiet. As Spike turned to look, expecting to see a smile on Celestia’s face, he was shocked to see her sad looking face. Before he had a chance to say anything, Celestia spoke, “My dear guest, although this is a joyous day, there is something I must tell you all.”

As everyone looked on worried, Spike was about to ask what was wrong, before Celestia said, “I’ve been keeping a secret from you all that I can no longer keep.” Hearing her say that Spike’s heart started to pound in his chest and as he went to say something, Celestia placed her hoof on his lips and gave him a loving smile, before continuing to say, “Spike the dragon, is not who he says he is.”

As the crowd starts chattering and whispering, Spike begins to get even more worried as she carries on speaking, “It is true he is a hero, a friend and number one assistant to Twilight Sparkle,” after she takes a breath she holds her head up and says, “But he is also, my son.” 

Spike looks at her almost in tears himself as he says, “Cele-“

“NO!!!” Celestia shouts, cutting him off as she starts to cry and the crowd goes silent, she places her hoof on Spike’s cheek and says, “Not today. Not on your wedding day. Just one day where we don’t have to pretend. Just let me hold you without having to worry what anyone else thinks. Just let me be your mom.” As she says that, she and Luna both place their crowns on the floor, at his feet, to the gasp of every creature in the room.

Spike pulls her into a hug and starts to cry as he says, “You are my mom, you silly old mare.” After that he pulls Luna into the hug as well and they hold each other.

Celestia whispers, “Forgive me, Grandpa, but the only wish I ever had was to be able to hold my child like a mother on his wedding day. I just wanted to join in on your happiness without having to hold myself back because of some stupid crown.”

Spike just chuckled as he said, “There is nothing to forgive. You really are your mother’s daughters. I never could say no to my little filly Lilly either.” Making Celestia and Luna both giggle.

After parting from one another, the three looked at the crowd of silent creatures. Just as Celestia cleared her throat to go and say something, the crowd roared with cheers, making the three blush. Some of the ponies even shouted out, “What’s wrong with a mother wanting to show her son some affection? It’s only natural.” As the three of them smiled, Spike wrapped an arm around both Celestia and Luna and said, “Your citizens have spoken. You have a duty to fulfill,” as he kissed Luna on the cheek and then just before kissing Celestia, he said, “You wouldn’t want to disappoint anypony, right mom?” Before kissing her on the cheek making her blush as the crowd continued to cheer.

As the cheers died down, Spike laughed and bent over and picked up the two crowns off the floor and as he placed them back on their heads, he said, “Silly aunty and mother, you seemed to have dropped these. What would you do without me?” making a few of the creatures in the crowd snicker and giggle.

After one more quick hug from both of them, Luna laughed and said, “Who knows, my nephew? Maybe we should ask your wife,” before using her magic to turn him around and push him towards a waiting Rarity.

Spike giggled as he looked at his beloved and was about to say something before Rarity jumped into his arms and said, “Mine,” as she kissed him. As everyone started to clap and cheer once again, one of the guards shouted out, “Jeez, Spike. What’s yer secret with the mares?” making everyone laugh.

Spike broke his kiss with Rarity and as he smiled at her, he shouted out, “Patience and natural charm,” making Rarity giggle as she gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

Just then, the CMC started getting excited as Apple Bloom said, “Wait a minute. If Spike’s Celestia’s son, does that make him a prince?” Then Sweetie Belle said, “If Spike’s a prince does that make my sister a princess?” Then Scootaloo looked at Sweetie Belle and said, “Wait, if Rarity’s a princess does that make you a princess now too?”

Rarity laughed getting the girls attention as she said, “Oh, girls. Why would Spike want to be a prince?” Getting a funny look from the CMC, Rarity continued to say with a smile on her face, “Why would he settle for the title of prince when the title of number one assistant is so much more?” As Spike pulled her into a hug she kissed him and said, “Besides, he’s always been my knight in shining scales. What more could a girl ask for?” 

Celestia smiled and said, “Well, with that, I think it’s time to move on to the reception in the garden, if the bride and groom would be so kind to lead the way.”

Just then, a few Royal Guards walked down the aisle and stood on either side and drew their swords, making an arch. A bit confused, Spike raised an eye as the captain stood there and said, “What? It's tradition to have a knight and his lady leave like this.”

Rarity giggled slightly as she bowed and held out her hoof, before saying, “Well, my knight, would you be so kind as to escort me to this soiree?”

Spike chuckled as he bowed and kissed her hoof before he said, “It would be an honor, my lady.” As they started walking down the aisle, creatures were throwing flower petals at the happy couple. As they come to the doors, one maid opened her side with a smile, whilst the other older one on Spike's side opened it and lowered her head to bow to him. Spike stopped and said, “No, you don’t have to do that, I’m-“

The mare raised her head and smiled at him and said, “I remember you’re just Spike, the number one assistant to Twilight Sparkle. I haven’t forgotten,” cutting him off.

As Spike smiled back and nodded he and Rarity carried on and as they went through the door, Rarity caught a glimpse of a scare on the mare’s arm. As they walked down the corridor Rarity asked, “Spike, was tha-“

Spike smiled as they made their way towards the garden and said, “Yeah, that was the head maid. I told you she still worked here,” cutting her off.

Once Spike and Rarity, along with the other guest made it to the garden, the music started to play and everyone watched as Spike took Rarity’s hoof and escorted her to the middle of the dance floor for their first dance as a married couple. They stood on their hind legs and waltzed around the dance floor like they were gliding on ice as everyone watched. Spike never took his eyes off Rarity even for a second. As the song came to an end, Spike dipped Rarity and passionately kissed her to the cheers of the crowd. 

After their dance was over and more music began to play, Spike told everyone to come join in and dance. For a few seconds, however, no other creature moved. That was until surprisingly Fluttershy, known for being shy, came onto the dance floor dragging Discord along with her, making a few creatures giggle and whisper. As Spike and Rarity watched the shy mare take charge, Rarity couldn’t help but giggle as she said, “Well, I never thought Fluttershy would be so bold.”

Spike laughed as he winked at a now red faced Discord and said, “When it’s for the ones we love, even the shy can become brave. I think this is just Fluttershy’s way of trying to tell a shy draconequus that she’s ok with being seen with him like this, that she wants more. The fact that the Lord of Chaos, who can come and go as he pleases, didn’t do so is his way of showing her how much he cares for her.”

Rarity giggled as they continued to slow dance and said, “Hmm. It sounds somewhat familiar wouldn’t you agree, my husband?” 

Hearing Rarity say that made Spike laugh as he nodded his head. Shortly after Fluttershy and Discord started to dance, more creatures came on to the dance floor. One pair that surprised Spike was Ember, dragging a red faced Garble on the floor, as he shouted, “I don’t wanna!” To which Ember just firmly said, “Tuff. If this is something ponies do at wedding, we’re going to do it too,” a bit red faced as she stood him up to dance.

Spike chuckled and shouted over to Garble, “Just give up and submit. You aren’t going to win against her, Garble.”

Ember turned around to look at Spike and shouted back, “You want a piece of me, Spike!?” All red faced.

Spike laughed back and said, “Na. I’ll leave it to Garble. Who knows? With enough training he may just be what the Dragon Lord needs.”

Seeing Ember glare at him, Spike nervously giggled, before he watched Garble turn her around to face him before he bowed slightly and held out his claw and said, “Wou…would you do me the honor of dancing with me, my Dra…Dragon Lord?”

Ember went completely quiet and even redder in the face as she saw Garble looking up at her with a nervous look.

Ember cleared her throat and took his claw as she said, “It’s about time. Now it’s time to show these ponies a thing or two.”

Rarity giggled at the sight as she said, “Oh my. It seems Garble has learnt how to be a bit more of a gentledrake from watching you, Spikey-wikey.”

Spike just laughed at hearing that and said, “Well, who better to learn from than the master. Right, my lady?”

Rarity giggled and wrapped her arms around Spike as she said, “Who indeed,” before kissing him.

As they broke their kiss, Spike and Rarity heard Applejack and Rainbow Dash arguing as they made their way to the dance floor, “I’m the better dancer, RD.” Applejack said, as Rainbow scoffed back, “You wish, AJ. I could out dance you any day.”

As Spike watched them starting to dance together, he said, “I’d wish they would stop pretending that they are just competing with each other and just be honest about how they feel. It’s kind of funny how the Elements of Honesty and Loyalty can’t be honest and loyal to their own feelings.”

Rarity watched as the two got closer together when they thought no one was watching and smiled as she said, “Hmmm. But I’m sure they’ll get there on their own some day. The important thing is when that time comes, we’re there for them, ready to support them like the friends we are.”

After saying that, they see Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich off in a quiet part of the dance floor, surprisingly being very normal and quiet. This was a surprise in and of itself. They both just smiled and put it down to the fact that even party ponies like to have some quiet time together from time to time.  

Just then, Spike stops dancing and sees Twilight standing on the edge of the dance floor by herself. Just as his body starts to move towards his sister, Rarity stops him and points at Blueblood, who is making his way over to Twilight. Rarity placed her hoof on Spike’s shoulder and smiled warmly at him.

Spike smiles back at her before looking over at Twilight and watching as Blueblood comes up next to her and says, "Hi." Thanks to his dragon hearing he could hear everything, even over the music and as he watches on, Blueblood nervously asked Twilight if she wanted to dance with him. She blushes slightly and says she doesn’t know how to dance. At which point Blueblood said, “I could teach you if you want.” As she looks at him, he starts to go red in the face and says, “I mean, I know how much you like to learn new things and I already know how, so it makes sense if you think about it.”

“Using logic. Nice thinking, Bluey,” Spike thought to himself as he chuckled slightly as he watches on. Twilight went a bit red in the face and looked down at the floor as she said, “I…I wouldn’t want to embarrass you,” at which point Blueblood lifted her chin up and said with a serious face, “Nothing you could do, would ever embarrass me, Twilight Sparkle.”

At this point Spike laughed and said, “Smooth one, Blueblood.”

Rarity jabbed Spike in the side getting his attention and said, “No fair. I can only see them. I can’t make out what they’re saying, Spikey.”

Spike looked at his mare and giggled as he said, “Sorry, sweetheart. Long story short, I think Blueblood's efforts are going to pay off very shortly,” as he looked back over to Twilight and Blueblood, he heard Twilight say, “Tha…that’s sweet of you Blue, but you’re a prince and I wouldn’t want to make you look like a fool in front of everyone.” Hearing that Blueblood laughed and said, “And you’re a princess. I say we go out there and just have fun. Who cares if we look like fools? There’s nopony I’d rather have by my side, foolish or otherwise, than you.” Blueblood grabs Twilight's hoof and drags her onto the dance floor as he says, “Let’s show these creatures how we royals have fun.” For the first time in her life, Twilight was lost for words and completely red in the face as they stood there on the dance floor.

Spike chuckled and watched as Blueblood held her up and started to teach her how to dance. Of course, she stepped on his hooves a lot and they even bumped into a few other guests, but they looked happy.

After a few more dances, Spike and Rarity, along with their friends, decided to take a break and sit at a table and just relax. As they all sat there chatting happily away and drinking, the CMC girls came running over to hang out with them for a bit.

It’s at this point Scootaloo started to get a bit nervous and kept looking at Rainbow Dash. Of course, Rainbow noticed and said, “Hey, squirt. You either want to ask me something or you need to pee. Which is it?”

Scootaloo started to dig at the floor and said, “I want to ask you something, I just don’t know how.”

Rainbow raised an eye at that and said, “Well, just come out and say it. I’m listening.”

At this point, Scootaloo quickly glanced over at Spike and as he smiled at her, he breathed in and out slowly. Closing her eyes and remembering what she learned, she breathed in slowly and said, “I’d rather show you.” Just then she spread her wings and slowly started to fly up into the air as everyone looked on in amazement and silence. When she was high enough up in the air, she looked back down and smiled at Rainbow Dash as she said, with a tear in her eye, “I was hoping you could teach me the ropes on how to fly.”

Rainbow sat there with her mouth open for a few minutes before bolting up into the air and grabbing Scootaloo and spinning her around in a hug before saying at the top of her voice, “You can fly, squirt! Of course, I’ll show you the ropes! when I’m done with you, you’ll be the fastest pony in the skies!" 

As they landed back on the ground, Scootlaoo couldn’t stop smiling as everypony congratulated her. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle jumped on top of her and they all fell to the floor laughing. As they all got back up, Apple Bloom asked, “How did you learn to fly, Scoots?” Before Scootaloo had a chance to answer, Sweetie Belle asked, “When did you learn to fly?”

Scootaloo laughed and said, “Yesterday is the when and as for the how,” as she quickly glanced over at Spike and back to her friends, she said, “I learned that just cuz you flap your wings hard doesn’t mean you’re going to be able to fly. I learned that it’s the magic in me that lets me fly just like how you can use magic as a unicorn, Sweetie, or how you’re so good at all that farming stuff, and really strong, Apple Bloom. It all comes from the magic inside of us. I just had to find it.” As she rubs the back of her head, she says, “I guess it just took me awhile is all.”

As Rainbow pulled her into a hug and rubbed her head she said, “Who cares how long it took you, you can fly?” As she happily squeezed her.

Scootaloo broke the hug and laughed as she said, “Well, I wouldn’t call it flying just yet. More like hovering in one spot. But it’s a good start.”

Rainbow Dash laughed and said, “Yeah, it is.”

Apple Bloom jumped up and said, “Come on, girls. We gotta go show the others. Just wait till they see you flying, Scootaloo.” Apple Bloom grabs Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo and they go running off to find their friends.

After the girls are out of sight, Rainbow Dash took a drink from her cup and smiled as she looked at the table and said, “Thanks, Spike. I don’t know how you did it, but you really helped her. I owe ya one.”

Spike looked away and nervously laughed as he said, “I don’t know what you mean, Rainbow. I didn’t do anything,” as he picked up his cup and started to drink from it, whilst still laughing.

Rainbow Dash didn’t shout or make a fuss. She just looked at him and smiled calmly as she said, “Give it up, Spike. You're a worse liar than AJ, and that’s saying something. Did you forget who you’re talking to? I saw her glance at you when she was talking to the girls. I just wanted to say thanks, is all.”

Spike put his cup down and smiled at her as he said, “You don’t have to thank me, Rainbow. Scoots means a lot to me too. She’s my friend after all.”

Rainbow Dash leaned over the table and said, “Ya just made yourself 20% cooler in my books, dragon boy,” before taking Spike and everypony there by surprise and kissing him.

Spike leaned back in his chair as Rainbow Dash started to laugh and Rarity shot up and screamed as her horn started to spark and shouted, “Rainbow Dash, just what do you think you are playing at?!”

Rainbow Dash gulped at seeing the anger in Rarity’s eyes as she stopped laughing and said, “Wait, wait. Look sure I like Spike and all just fine, but not like that.” As she looked up at Rarity with a sad face she continued, “I’m… I’m not very girly. Being all fru-fru, is your thing. It’s just dragon boy there did something super amazing and it was the only way I could think of showing how grateful I am. It was a thank you is all. I thought you fru-fru types, do that sort of thing all the time.”

As Spike smiles warmly at Rarity, she starts to calm down as she looks at Rainbow Dash and says, “Firstly, I am not fru-fru, and secondly we don’t kiss others on the lips, Rainbow Dash!” As Rarity glares at her, she says, “But most importantly, friend or no, if you ever kiss my dragon on the lips again, no pony will ever find your body.”

She said it in such a calming manner that a chill ran down Spike’s back as he said, “Rarity!” Surprised and shocked at what she just said.

Rainbow Dash just laughed and smiled as she said, “I hear ya, Rarity,” before looking at Spike and saying, “It’s cool. I respect that. A mare’s got a right to fight for what’s hers,” before she smirked at him and said, “It seems dragons aren’t the only ones that are protective of their treasure,” as she let out a laugh before saying, “But consider that a preview of what married life’s gonna be like, if you ever get on her bad side, dragon boy.”

As Rarity turns to look at Spike and bats her eyelashes at him all innocently, Spike gulped and said, “Thanks for the warning,” as Rarity kisses him on the cheek and the other girls begin to laugh.

Just then, Pinkie Pie pops up in front of Rarity with a grin and says, “Oh, Rarity, you silly filly, it’s just a kiss.” As she says that, she grabs hold of Rarity’s face and plants a big wet kiss right on Rarity’s lips, before wiping her mouth and laughing. 

As the girls sat there laughing at the shocked look on Rarity’s face, Spike chuckled and said, “Who else but Pinkie?” Making everyone laugh some more at the pink ponies antics.

Twilight stopped laughing and put her glass down and looked at Spike and asked, “While it’s great that Scootaloo can fly now, I am curious just how you managed to help her Spike.”

Spike picked up his glass and giggled as he said, “Well, I did spend all that time studying with you, Twi. I was bound to learn some things.” As the others giggled at hearing that, Spike grinned a little before saying, “Besides, who do you think taught Lilith to fly when she got her wings?” 

The girls all just looked at Spike as he took a sip from his cup and smiled at them. Just then, the music finished playing and Sapphire Shores made her way onto the stage. As she looked around at everyone she said, “Now, I don’t normally do weddings. Not my thing. But I’ll make an exception for a dear friend,” as she looks over at Spike sitting there and smiles at him. Before saying, “Now if the groom would be so kind as to come onto the dance floor for a moment.”

As all the guests look at Spike, he shrugs his shoulders and stands up and walks onto the dance floor and looks at Sapphire Shores curiously. She lets out a little laugh as she looks at him before saying, “Now many of you here probably don’t know this, but a certain dragon we all know just so happens to be very talented in a number of things and it got me thinking. What could I give him as a wedding gift?” As Spike raised an eye at her, she continued to say, “Then it hit me. He studied music for a long time back in his Canterlot days, and luckily for me, I just so happen to know the daughter of his former teacher,” as she said that, she turned and gave a now giggling Octavia, who was making her way off stage with her friends behind her, a quick wink before looking back out at the crowd and saying, “So we spent some time going through some of his old work and wouldn’t you know, I just so happened to come across an old song he wrote.”

As the color drained from Spike’s face at where this was going, Sapphire Shores smiled and said, “So I thought since it was his wedding day and it was well written and composed, I thought I may sing it for you all.” As she looked at Spike starting to shake his head, embarrassed, the crowd started to cheer. She just smiled at him and said, “Tell me if you remember this, Spike," before she began to sing.

Think of every fellow creature,
Lend them a helping claw,
Put a little love in their hearts.

Just then, a piano started playing as the curtain opened from behind her and Fancy Pants was sat playing at the Piano as he began to sing.

The day is getting late,
Please do not hesitate,
Tomorrow could be one day too late,
Put a little love in their hearts.

Spike stood there shocked at what he was seeing. Just then, a number of cleaning, cooks and other staff from Canterlot castle came on to stage and started doing a choreographed dance number. From the side of the curtain, Fleur de Lis came walking out in an old cleaning uniform with a smile. As some of the guest gasped at her, she began to sing.

If you want the whole world to show,
You won't let hatred grow,
Put a little love in their hearts.

As she made her way over to Fancy Pants’ side, she sang,

For you, 

And they both sang,

And me,

As Fleur de Lis sang,

You just wait and see,

Just then, Hoity Toity came walking out and sang,

If you want the whole world to show
You won't let hatred grow,
Put a little love in their hearts.

Followed by Photo Finish coming out and singing,

And the world,

As she sang, the staff followed 

(And the world) 

Will be a better place,
All the world (And the world) will be a better place,
For you (For you) and me (And me),
You just wait (Just wait) and see,

As Photo Finish was singing, Sapphire Shores made her way onto the dance floor and smiled at Spike as she took the shocked dragon by the claw and led him up onto the stage. As the staff danced, his friends all gathered around him by the piano and smiled at him, Sapphire Shores giggled and said, “Take it home, sugar.”

Spike snapped out of his trance and looking at all his friends. He smiled as a single tear rolled down his cheek as he belted out, 

Look closely all around you,
And you will understand,
Put a little love in their hearts.

As the crowd cheered, Sapphire Shores smiled and sang,

And the world (And the world) 

Followed by Fancy Pants,

Will be a better place,

Then Fleur de Lis,

And the world (And the world),

Hoity Toity was next,

Will be a better place,

Followed by Photo Finish,

For you (For you) and me (And me),

And then they all sang together,

You just wait (Just wait) and see,
Put a little love in their hearts.
Put a little love in their hearts.

As things were wrapping up, they all looked at Spike. As Fancy Pants played the last few notes, Spike sang.

Look closely all around you,
And you will understand,
There's no greater art,
Than putting love in their hearts.

As his friends all hugged him, the crowd roared with excitement and cheers of joy as Spike looked out at the crowd to the table where Rarity was sitting. He could see his friends all cheering while Pinkie Pie was bouncing up and down, excited. As he looked over at his wife, she was just sitting there with a smile on her face looking at him and no one else.

Sapphire Shores shooed Spike and her other friends off stage, as the crowd still cheered before she began to sing a few songs. Spike and his friends made their way over to Rarity and the others. They all greeted each other before pulling up a few extra chairs and sat down at the table.

Fleur de Lis giggled as she asked, “So how did you all like our little show?” As everyone told her how much they enjoyed it, she smiled and said, “I’m glad you all liked it. You wouldn’t believe how much we all practiced to make sure we got it right.”

Fancy Pants laughed and said, “Yes, it turned out well, I think. It’s a good thing Spike here still remembered the words, otherwise that could have been embarrassing.”

As everyone laughed, Spike said, “Like I would forget the words to one of my own songs,” before taking a sip from his glass and asking, “How did you manage to get the staff involved? Also, what’s with the uniform anyway Fleur?”

Fleur de Lis laughed and said, “Well, getting the staff involved was easy. We just told them what we were planning and asked if they wanted to take part.” As she looked down at her uniform, a soft warm smile came onto her face before she said, “As for this, I don’t know. Being back in the royal garden with you, I guess I just got a little nostalgic for the good old days. It kind of felt right to wear it for one last time, ya know.”

Spike couldn’t help but smile at that. Just then, a flash went off and Photo Finish said, “I think this group photo will do very nicely for the collection,” as she smiled at Spike.

Hoity Toity laughed and said, “This may be your wedding day, Spike, but you know it’s not a Canterlot party unless we’re all together.” As he nods his head, some waiter ponies came over holding a few bottles of wine and as he popped one of them, he grinned and said, “I know you Ponyville mares like a good party, but right now we’re not in Ponyville and this little group of friends has their own way of doing things.”

Applejack laughed and said, “I like the way you think, Hoity,” before grinning and pulling out a barrel from underneath the table, with an apple sticker on and placing it on the table as she said, “But how about you put down that water and join us in a real drink?”

Rainbow Dash’s eyes lit up as she said, “Oh yeah, now the fun's really getting started,” as she licked her lips.

Hoity Toity laughed as he held out his glass and said, “By all means, my dear. I’m not one to turn down a ladies invitation for a drink.”

As Applejack started pouring drinks, Blueblood, Discord, and Cheese Sandwich all came over and Discord magic upped some chairs for them all. As drinks were handed out, Fancy Pants said, “Before we drink, it’s kind of one of our things to have a little toast,” as Fancy smirked at Spike, he said, “If you wouldn’t mind, Spike.”

Spike sighed as he said, “Why is it always me?”

Sapphire Shores walked over to him from behind and said with a smile, “Because, we like it when you make the toast.” As Fancy Pants hands her a glass, Discord makes a chair for her to sit down.

Spike grins and says fine, “As I look at you all sitting here, I realize just how lucky I am. The Magic of Friendship truly is a wondrous thing,” as Spike’s grin gets bigger, he says, “My friends are the best of friends, loyal, willing and able. Now let’s get to drinking! All glasses off the table!” Everyone starts to laugh as Spike says, “Cheers.”

They all sat around the table as they watched Trixie performing her magic show with the help of Starlight as laughter and chatting filled the air. As the magic show came to an end with a round of applause, Octavia and her friends made their way back on stage and started to play some music. A grin came onto Fleur de Lis’s face as she looked at Rarity and asked, “Rarity, I know it’s your wedding and all, but would you mind terribly if I stole a dance with a certain dragon,” still looking at Rarity, Fleur de Lis giggled and said, “It just occurred to me that I never got the chance to dance with him before.”

As Rarity giggled, she said, “Not at all, Fleur, my dear.”

Fleur de Lis looked at Spike and grinned as she said, “Well, Spike, it’s been a few years but would you like to dance?”

As Spike laughed, he stood up and bowed his head as he stretched out his claw and said, “Fleur de Lis, would you care to join me for a dance?”

As Fleur de Lis laughed she stood up and bowed, now with a smile on her face she took his claw and said, “It would be my honor, kind sir.”

Just then, Fancy Pants stood up and said, “Well, in that case, Mrs. Rarity, would you do me the honor of a dance?” as he bowed to her.

Rarity giggled and said, “I would be delighted, Mr. Fancy Pants.” As she took his hoof and they all made their way to the dance floor and began dancing. Shortly after, the others all came to the dance floor with their respective partners to join in on the fun.

As Spike looked around, he couldn’t help but smile at his friends and even let out a little giggle as he watched Twilight dancing with Blueblood and doing much better this time. As he looked over at his wife, he said to Fleur, “Thank you, Fleur.”

She looked at Spike a bit confused and said, “For what, Spike?”

“For giving Rarity your princess dress. I know how important that was to you.” Spike answered with a smile.

Fleur de Lis giggled and said, “Yes, well, I already got my prince, it only seemed right I helped her get hers. Besides, it suits her, don’t you think?”

Spike laughed and said, “Yeah, it really does.”

As their dance came to an end, Spike made a point to dance with each of his friends and Rarity did the same. She made sure to have a dance with her father as Spike shared a dance with her mother.

As Spike and Rarity began to leave the dance floor together, he saw the dragons laughing and having fun with some other creatures. He looked at Rarity and said, “You got one more dance in you, Rarity?”

As Rarity followed where Spike was looking, she grinned and said, “I believe I do, my Spikey-wikey.” Before she kissed him and they made their way over to the table the dragons were sitting at.

As they got to the table, Ember smiled and said, “Hey, Spike. Hey, Rarity. Congratulations again,” As she picked a gem from a bowl and munched on it, she said, “It was nice of the ponies to have some gems here for us dragons. Don’t get me wrong, the food's good, but you can’t beat a good gem.”

As Spike picked a gem out of the bowl and quickly munched it, he laughed and said, “I know what you mean.” As he smiled at Ember he said, “I was hoping the Dragon Lord would do me the honor of sharing a dance with me?”

Ember coughed a bit and said, “I don’t know, Spike, I’m not that great a dancer.”

Spike gave her the doggy eye look and said with pouty lips, “But, it’s my wedding day and I want to dance with my friend.”

Ember smirked and said, “Fine. As Dragon Lord, I guess I could manage a dance with you. But you’ve been warned, dragon.” As she took Spike’s claw, he laughed and they made their way to the dance floor.

Rarity stood there and watched as Garble was looking at Spike and Ember. A smile came onto her face as she cleared her throat to get his attention. Garble looked at her with a raised eye, wondering why she was standing there with her hoof raised, looking at him.

Rarity giggled and shifted her eyes to the dance floor, then back to him. Garble finally got the hint and said, “Look, I’m not really into this whole dancing thing, ok?” But as he looked over at Ember and Spike one more time, he sighed and said, “But I guess one dance with a pony won’t kill me. Come on.”

As Garble started to walk, he turned back to see that Rarity hadn’t moved and said, “Well, you coming?”

Rarity raised her eye at him and said, “Well if this is how you treat a lady, how do you hope to find a nice dragoness to be your mate with manners like that?”

Garble sighed heavily and said, “Fine.” As he held out his claw he asked, “Would you like to dance?”

Rarity giggled as she placed her hoof in his claw and said, “You still need work, but that’s better. I would love to dance. Thank you,” and they made their way onto the dance floor.

As Spike watched them come onto the dance floor, he laughed as he looked at Ember, who kept looking down at her feet. She looked up and glared at him as she said, “Are you laughing at me!?” I told you dragons don’t do dancing, we’re not like you, you know.”

Spike giggled and said, “Well, I was trained from a very early age, but if you would like a tip, the trick is not to look down at your feet and just go with the flow as it were.”

As Ember looked at Spike, he could see she was still thinking where to step and put her feet, so he smiled and asked, “How’s Garble doing? Is his training going well?” In hope it would take her mind off of the dancing.

Ember smiled and said, “Yeah, his coming along really well. In fact, he’s doing better than I thought he would. He really is working hard.”

It seemed to have worked as Ember was talking she stopped thinking about her feet placement and just went with the flow of the dance. A smirk came onto Spike’s face as he thought, “I wonder,” before saying, “Maybe it’s not the training. Maybe he feels like he has something to prove, or just maybe he’s trying to get the attention of a certain dragoness.”

Ember’s face went red as she said, “What!?! Don’t be silly, Spike.”

Spike laughed and said, “I don’t know, Ember. He hasn’t stopped looking at us since I asked you to dance.” As Spike said that, Ember quickly looked over and saw Garble looking at them and after they made eye contact, Garble quickly looked away as Ember turned back around to look at a now giggling Spike, with an even redder face.

After they finished dancing, they made their way back to the table and Spike bowed slightly as he said, “Thank you for the dance, Ember.”

As Rarity wrapped her arm around Spike’s, she giggled and said, “Yes, thank you, Garble. Although, you still have much to learn in the ways of how to treat a lady,” she looked at Ember and smirked as she continued, “I’m sure with the right inspiration, you could become a true gentledrake.” Letting off another giggle seeing Ember starting to go a bit red in the face.

As Spike and Rarity started to walk away, Spike said, “Well, we’ll leave you kids alone to enjoy yourselves,” as he waved a claw and Rarity giggled along as she said, “Have fun. Tata.” As they continued to laugh as they walked away, Ember’s face got redder, as Garble just shoved a bunch of gems in his mouth.

As Spike and Rarity sat at the table cuddled up next to each other, watching all their friends enjoying themselves, Spike passes Rarity her drink as he takes a sip from his cup and asks, “So, my love, is this the wedding you always dreamed of having?”

Rarity lets out a sigh of happiness as she smiles at Spike and says, “No, it’s even better than I dreamed and that’s because I got to marry the dragon of my dreams,” as she giggled and kissed him on the cheek.

Spike smiled warmly at her and said, “Glad to have been of service, my lady,” before kissing her, which made Rarity giggle slightly.

Just then, Luna and Celestia showed up behind them carrying some cake and asked if they could join them. Rarity smiled and said, “But, of course.”

As Luna sat down with a few slices of cake, she said, “This has turned out rather well, I think.”

As Rarity happily nodded and smiled in agreement, Celestia was still standing and said, “If it’s not too much trouble, do you think I could pinch Spike for a dance?”

Rarity laughed and said, “Why, of course, not,” as Spike stood up with a smile and led Celestia to the dance floor. The guest moved to the outer edge of the dance floor and watched as Spike and Celestia stood in the middle.

Celestia smiled as she raised her hoof, getting Octavia’s attention and said, “If it's not too much trouble my little pony, could you play something with a bit more of a beat and a faster pace.”

As Octavia happily nodded, Spike smirked and took off Celestia’s crown and shouted, “Luna, heads up,” as he threw the crown towards Luna and she caught it in her magic as she carried on eating her cake, with a smile.

As the music began, Spike and Celestia got ready to start their dance as Spike said, “Wouldn’t want that falling off as we danced now would we, mom?”

Celestia giggled and said, “Try to keep up, my little dragon,” as she smiled at him.

They started to do the quick step as the onlookers watched in awe as they danced around the floor, neither one missing a step. After a few minutes, as the music was coming to an end, Spike spun Celestia and they both bowed as the music finished. The crowd cheered as they both stood up with smiles on their faces.

Both gasping for air, Celestia smiled and said, “Seems those lessons paid off in the end.”

As they made their way off the dance floor to cheers and applause, Spike laughed and said, “You’re not bad yourself. Didn’t think you could dance like that.”

As they made their way back over to the table, Celestia smirked and said, “Please, I’m a princess,” making them both laugh.

As Celestia took her crown back from Luna and was given a piece of cake as she sat down, Spike sat down next to Rarity and smiled seeing all his friends and family at the table laughing and happily smiling.

The party continued as day turned to night, filled with laughter and joy. Rarity was happily chatting away with her friends when she asked, “Has anyone seen that husband of mine?”

Celestia giggled as Twilight said, “You know Spike. It may be his wedding, but he never stops working.”

Before Rarity had a chance to say anything, Celestia said, “He felt bad that the ponies that were on shift weren’t able to join in on the festivities, so he took some of the food and drink inside the castle and set up a table for them all to have something to eat and drink.”

Just then Rarity looked over at the entrance to the castle and saw Spike walking out laughing with Fleur de Lis, who was now out of her old uniform, Fancy Pants, Photo Finish, Sapphire Shores, Hoity Toity, Hazel Walnut and Platinum Night. As she watched him laughing with his friends, a warm smile came onto her face as she thought, “Always thinking of others.”

As Spike and his friends made their way over to join the others, Rarity happily pulled Spike into her embrace and passionately kissed him. After breaking their kiss, Rarity smiled and thought, “To have such a kind hearted dragon to call my own, I have been truly blessed,” as she smiled at that goofy look on Spike’s face she said in a whisper, “Such a gentledrake,” before kissing him once again to the laughter and giggles of their friends.

As the night went on, more and more guests started to leave until in the end, it was just Spike, Rarity, and a few of their friends remaining. Spike was sitting there in a fake huff as they all laughed, because he was trying to help tidy up and was scolded by the cleaning staff. After a bit more fun and laughter, they all decided to call it a night and one by one left.

As Spike and Rarity made their way towards the guest room, they came to a stop at the door as Spike smiled and picked Rarity up and opened the door with his tail, getting a little giggle out of Rarity as he carried her into the room and closed the door. As Rarity kissed him, he made his way over to the bed and gently placed her down as they carried on their kiss.

As they broke their kiss, Rarity looked away. Spike got concerned by this and asked, “What’s the matter, Rarity?”

For a few moments, Rarity said nothing until she sighed and said, “I’ve always dreamed of meeting my prince, the stallion that would love me like no other. Now here I am with a creature that not only loves me, but is so much more than I ever dreamed possible. And the truth is I’m scared. What if I can’t make him as happy as he makes me? What if I’m not good enough?”

Spike giggled slightly and moved her head back to look at him as he smiled and said, “Rarity, you are the only one for me. No one else could ever be better than you. You make me happier than you could ever know. I love you, and that will never change.” As Spike finished saying that, he kissed her.

As they broke their kiss and Spike looked into her loving eyes, Rarity blushed and looked away again. Spike, confused by her action, was about to say something when she said, “Spike, I’ve never...” clearing her throat she continued nervously, “I…I’ve…never...you know, and I don’t want to disappoint you.”

Seeing her go even redder, Spike caught on to what she meant and started to go red in the face and said, “Oh, neither have I, Rarity.” As Rarity turned to look at him with a bright red face, Spike gulped and said, “But I know one thing, you could never disappoint me.”

Rarity placed her hoof on Spike’s cheek and looked at him lovingly and said, “Kiss me, my dragon.”

As Spike leaned in to kiss her, Rarity used her magic to turn the lights off and the last thing she said was, “Mine.”



************




Rarity was in the kitchen placing some toast onto a plate as she shouted, “If you don’t hurry, you’re going to be late for school, sweetie.”

Just then, hooves could be heard running down the stairs. As Rarity turned around to start washing up, a voice said, “I can’t be late today. Thanks for the breakfast.” 

As Rarity turned back around, hearing the door open, she said, “It’s very un-lady like to run with food in your mouth, dear.” 

After hearing a few quick munching sounds, the voice shouted back, “Done. See you later. Love you mom and dad,” before the door slammed shut. 

Rarity shook her head and giggled as she went back to washing up and said, “Where does that girl get her manners?”

As Spike walks up behind Rarity, he laughed and said, “Don’t ask me. I’m the perfect gentleman,” as he pulled her into an embrace and kissed her.

Rarity giggled and kissed him back and said, “You most certainly are, my knight in shining scales,” before passionately kissing him again.

Just then they hear someone say, "Gross," behind them. As they turn around, they saw their daughter standing there, making a funny face as she continued to say, “I came back to get my bag cuz I forgot it and what do I walk in on? You two making kissy faces,” sticking her tongue out to show her displeasure at what she was seeing.

Rarity laughed and said, “Oh, you’ll understand one day, my little diamond.”

Spike scowled at that and said, “But not for a very long time if I have anything to say on the matter,” making Rarity giggle before he said, “Now didn’t you say you were going to be late, my little one?”

Hearing Spike say that she grabbed her bag and ran out the house slamming the door behind her again as Spike shook his head and grinned.

Just then, Rarity looked at him and smiled before she said, “Now, where were we before we were rudely interrupted?” And with a giggle passionately kissed her dragon.



The End.