My Little Pony: Nine Elements Book 2

by BlueBioWolf

Chapter 10: Sweet and Elite (S2:E9)

Four days prior to Twilight’s 18th birthday, Spike and Rarity sat next to each other on the train to Canterlot.

“So,” Rarity said. “Twilight gave you permission to come with me?”

“Yeah, that’s right,” Spike said. “Since you’re making something special for my mom, I want to come along to help you since you don’t know her for as long as I have. Besides, I have a therapy session with Luna anyway. So, it’s a two birds-one stone kind of deal. Actually, three birds since it gives me a chance to shop for my mom as well.”*

“Ah, I see,” Rarity said. “I do appreciate your efforts.”

“I’ve been saving gold bits for months,” Spike said as he pulled out a burlap sack out of his loose scales and placed it between himself and Rarity. “I have like 700 gold bits in this sack.”

“That is a lot indeed,” Rarity said. Spike had a bit of a sad look on his face. Rarity noticed. “What’s the matter? Are you discouraged at the idea that you might not be able to spend it?”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “Donut Joe’s pretty much the only shopowner in Canterlot that’ll let me buy anything.”

“I see,” Rarity said. “And it wouldn’t be right of me to take your hard-earned bits to buy something for Twilight saying that it’s from you.” She gave him a gentle hug. “After what happened at the Gala, I just can’t in good conscience leave you to your own devices where other elitists could insult you without any protection.”

Spike smiled and returned Rarity’s embrace. “Thanks, Rarity. I knew I could count on you to help me feel better.”

Soon, the train arrived at the station, where Luna and Celestia were waiting.

“Welcome, Rarity,” Celestia smiled. “And hello to you too, Spike.” She noticed the sack of gold bits Spike was lugging over his shoulder. “It’s good to see that you have plenty of bits saved, Spike. Though, it seems a bit heavy for you.”

“It’s okay,” Spike said. “I can manage.”

“I can exchange a hundred gold bits for a platinum bit to lighten the load,” Celestia offered. Platinum bits were the highest bit denomination in Equestria. They were mostly used by at least nobility.

“If you think it’ll help the shopkeepers that aren’t Donut Joe accept my patronage,” Spike said. This caught Luna’s attention.

“I can sense your downhearted feelings,” she said. “What troubles you?”

“I want to buy something nice for my mom’s birthday later this week,” Spike explained. “But, most shopkeepers in Canterlot won’t let me buy anything.”

“I see,” Princess Luna said. “There were still prejudices against you being a dragon, although some have faded since last you arrived at Canterlot.” The princess of the night levitated Spike onto her back. “I'll go with you on your quest to find a good birthday present for Twilight,” she said. “I rather doubt most of these modern ponies would have the - how do you modern ponies put it - misplaced nerve to deny service to a dragon being accompanied by one of the co-rulers of Equestria. Besides, it will allow us to continue our therapeutic chat while you are out shopping.”**

“I did promise that I would not leave Spike on his own during our visit,” Rarity said. “Although, with you and Spike together, he isn’t on his own, so the promise is still being kept.”

“I’ve arranged for you two to share a guest room in the palace,” Celestia said.

“Most appreciated, your highness,” Rarity said, genuflecting before Celestia. “I’ll take our luggage there straight away.”

After having their luggage transported, Rarity looked over the room she and Spike would be sharing.

“It does look quite comfortable,” Rarity said. “There’s a queen-sized bed that would likely be where I’m sleeping and a twin-sized bed for Spike.” She then remembered that she agreed to meet Spike for lunch during the train ride. “Oh! I better get going. I’ll have to ask how he and Luna are doing as well.”

Meanwhile, Spike and Luna were looking for a store while having a therapeutic chat. The chat was interrupted by Spike’s stomach growling.

“Perhaps our discussion shall continue during your midday meal,” Luna said.

“Rarity said she’d meet me for lunch on the train ride here,” Spike said.

“Did she say where?” Luna asked.

“The Teashop,” Spike said.

“A delightful restaurant indeed,” Luna said. She carried Spike to the aforementioned place just as Rarity was arriving with her cat.

“Hello, you two,” Rarity smiled. “How are you getting on?”

“We haven’t decided on a shop yet,” Spike admitted. “We were mostly having a therapeutic chat until my stomach growled.”

“Ah, I see,” Rarity said. “And I take it that has been going well?”

“Sure has,” Spike said. Luna levitated him to a seat at an outside table.

“You two make yourselves comfortable whilst I place your orders,” Luna said.

“Thank you kindly,” Rarity smiled. As Luna went into the shop, Rarity sat next to Spike as Opal climbed onto the table.

“Not for nothing,” Spike asked. “But, remind me again why you brought Opal instead of leaving her with Fluttershy.”

“Because Fluttershy was busy tending to monkeys that were jumping on the bed, falling off, and bumping their heads at the time,” Rarity said.***

“Oh, I see,” Spike said. “Sounds like she has her hooves full with that.”

“Indeed,” Rarity said. “On an unrelated note, I decided to make Twilight a dress for her birthday. My treat.”

“That’s a wonderful idea,” Spike smiled. “She does like wearing dresses every once in a while and she has been looking for a new one.”

Spike then saw a posh pony couple and ducked under the table. The couple consisted of a spring greenish gray unicorn stallion with a dark gray mane and tail, moderate azure eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting three jets (don’t ask how he got it in Equestria) wearing a green polo shirt and a white sweater tied around his neck and a pale, light grayish olive unicorn mare with a pale, light grayish indigo mane and tail with light gray streaks, moderate persian blue eyes with moderate cyan eyeshadow, and a Cutie Mark depicting three dollar signs (again, don’t ask) wearing a white polo shirt with a hot pink sweater tied around her neck. As Rarity sipped her tea, the gem ornament on her hat reflected some sunlight at the couple, accidentally catching their attention. So, they walked over to her. Under the table, Spike was less than pleased with the proximity of the couple.

“Pardon me, miss,” the stallion said. “But, my wife and I couldn’t help but notice the rather elegant looking chapeau on your head.”

“Oh, this?” Rarity asked, gesturing to her hat. “It’s just something I made myself. I don’t believe I caught your names.”

“I am Upper Crust,” the mare said, addressing herself. “And this is my husband, Jet Set. A charming and elegant unicorn mare such as yourself must be a Canterlot resident, but, I have not seen you on our streets until now.”

Rarity suddenly noticed Spike couldn’t be seen. “Spike, where are you?!” she asked in alarm.

“Spike?” Jet Set asked. “You mean Twilight Sparkle’s dragon?”

“That beast is here?” Upper Crust said.

“You don’t know him as I know him,” Rarity said, suddenly defensive. “Spike is no beast! Why, if you even had the heart to get to know him, you would see that he’s truly a kind and caring drake. He certainly wouldn’t do anything so cruel as to call someone a beast!” Under the table, Spike was a bit touched.

Suddenly, another voice chimed in.

“Rarity!” the voice chimed. “Hey, Rarity! It’s me, Hayseed Turnip Truck!” The owner was an earth pony stallion with a pale, light grayish gold coat, a mane and tail in two shades of grayish gamboge, moderate gamboge eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting three turnips wearing a green cap with a turnip patch and a mostly white tank top with smudges. “We met at the big hoedown in Ponyville last fall, ‘member?”

Rarity grew uncomfortable.

“Huh,” Jet Set said. “That would explain why we hadn’t seen you around here before,”

“And your rather defensive behavior towards a beast,” Upper Crust noted. “I wondered why the hat looked a bit… country.”

The two turned their noses up and trotted away from the Ponyville residents. Rarity seethed in anger at the posh couple demeaning Spike as Luna came out to ask what she and Spike would like.

“Rarity?” Luna asked. “What troubles you?”

“That posh couple, Jet Set and Upper Crust had the audacity to call Spike a beast!” Rarity said.

“Oh, they did, did they?” Luna asked. “Well, perhaps I’ll skip them on my patrol of the dream realm tonight.”

Rarity heard this and she took a deep breath to calm herself down. Spike came out from his hiding spot under the table.

After lunch, Spike and Rarity were in the guest room. Spike could tell that Rarity still had the words of the posh couple on her mind.

“Rarity,” Spike ventured to ask. “Are you okay?”

“That posh couple called you a beast and my hat a bit country,” Rarity muttered. “I mean, I can excuse them calling my hat country, but, calling you a beast? That’s where I get angry!” She levitated parchment onto a desk.

“Uh, what are you doing?” Spike asked, growing concern for Rarity’s anger.

“Creativenting!” Rarity said.

“As in creative venting?” he guessed.

“Yes,” Rarity said. “When something gets me angry, I channel it through my creativity so as not to take it out on others.”

So, she grabbed a charcoal stick and drew on the parchment. When she was finished, she revealed a beautiful design of a lavishly eccentric gown and matching headdress.

Later, she was with Spike, buying materials for the dress. She had several bags levitating in her magic.

“We must get back so I can get started right away,” Rarity said. “This design is so ambitious and I cannot waste any time.”

However, Rarity failed to watch where she was going and collided with another unicorn couple. However, unlike with Jet Set and Upper Crust, Spike didn’t hide out of sight. Rarity regained the use of her senses. She levitated the bag that was on the stallion’s head to reveal a charming looking face. He had a light gray coat, glossy finely-coiffed light azure mane, tail, and mustache, matching  eyes with his left adorned with a monocle, a white collared shirt fastened with a purple bow tie, a slate blue waistcoat, and a very dark gray almost black coat with coattails. His Cutie Mark depicted three gold crowns, each one adorned with a diamond cut amethyst. Rarity gasped with shock and surprise. She recognized the stallion from various high society magazines she read.

“Fancy Pants!” Rarity gasped in a star-struck voice.

The stallion looked at Spike and greeted him politely.

“Hello, dear Spike,” he smiled. “It has been over a year since I last saw you.”

“Yeah, Lord Pants—”

Fancy Pants chuckled warmly. “No need for the formalities, my drake. I’m perfectly fine with you calling me, ‘Fancy.’”

Rarity could scarcely believe the scene before her. Fancy Pants, a high-ranking Canterlot elite, was treating Spike with well-deserved dignity.

Spike let out a shy chuckle. “Okay, Fancy. Yeah, it has been a while. I’m in town to assist Rarity and do a bit of birthday shopping for Twilight.” He then leaned closer so only the stallion could hear. “As well as one other piece of business that I would prefer remained secret.” Rarity cleared her throat, reminding Spike of her presence. “Oh, right. Lord Fancy Pants, this is Rarity. She’s one of the new friends that Twilight and I made when we moved to Ponyville. Rarity, this is Lord Fancy Pants, one of the few nobles in Canterlot who actually deserves to be called ‘noble.’”

“You flatter me, my young friend,” Fancy Pants smiled, blushing modestly for a brief moment. “But, your own birthday is in a few months, yes?” Spike nodded. “The enrollment period of Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. Twelve years if I remember correctly.”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “Twilight forgot to tell her friends about it this year and they promised to make it up to me by giving me a party on my twelfth birthday.”****

“Ah, how delightful,” Fancy Pants smiled. The unicorn mare with him gently rubbed the top of Spike’s head while speaking in Prench. She also had a light gray coat, long flowing light magentaish gray mane and tail with heliotropeish white streaks, and pale, light grayish violet eyes with matching eyeshadow. Her Cutie Mark depicted three fleur de lis, two small lavender ones and one large gold one.

“C'est merveilleux de te revoir,” the mare said.

“Bonjour, Fleur,” Spike greeted back. “Comment s'est passée la lune de miel?”

“C’est magnifique,” Fleur responded with a smile.

“Ah, please pardon me,” Fancy Pants said. “Rarity, this is my good lady wife, Fleur de Lis.”

“Fleur de Lis?” Rarity asked. “The top Prench model for the most prestigious couture fashions?!”

“The very same,” Fancy smiled. “And the love of my life.”

“How did Spike learn Prench?” Rarity asked.

“Zat would be my doing,” Fleur said in accented Ponish. “Whenever Twilight Sparkle brought leetel Spike to one of my husband’s parties, I would take zee time to teach him Prench when he was old enough to talk.” She sighed sadly. “Sadly, zere has been leetel opportunity in zee last few years.”

“I’ve been keeping up my studies when I get the chance to,” Spike said. “Especially since I now have pony friends I can talk to. And they don’t look down on me.”

“We’ve ‘eard of what happened at zee recent Gala,” Fleur said.

“That reminds me,” Fancy said. “I do apologize we were unable to attend.”

“Hey,” Spike said. “You and Fleur were on your honeymoon in Prance. Besides, you wouldn’t have missed much.”

“On the contrary,” Fancy said. “It would have been satisfying to see a few of those bigoted fellows getting knocked down a few pegs.”*****

“Oui,” Fleur agreed. “Especially zat bourgeois Blueblood.”

The three friends couldn’t help but laugh. Rarity remembered that she had bumped into the unicorn couple.

“Oh!” Rarity exclaimed. “I am so terribly sorry to have bumped into you two.”

“Oh, it’s quite alright,” Fancy Pants assured her. “As young Spike would say, no harm, no fowl.”

“It’s true,” Spike said. “I do say that.”

“I must say,” Rarity said. “You two are the most polite elites to Spike I’ve encountered thus far.”

“We try our best anyway,” Fancy said. “My father believed in diversity and raised me to believe likewise.”

“That is wonderful,” Rarity smiled. She then thought of a question. “What if, and I’m speaking hypothetically here, what if you learned of an interspecies or interracial couple?”

“It would make no difference to me,” Fancy Pants said. “Were it not for interracial breeding, unicorns and pegasi would have died out long ago. At the end of the day, we’re all ponies with a common ancestor. Besides, our princesses have traits from all three races.”

“I sincerely wish that the Canterlot elitist ponies took a page out of your book,” Rarity said. “You would be a marvelous teacher towards them.”

“Sadly,” Fancy Pants said. “I’ve learned long ago that no matter how much time may pass, there will always be bigotry in the world. But, if it’s any consolation, my reputation gives me a rather strong influence. Lesser nobles often change their minds automatically to align with my own.”

“Kind of pathetic, if you think about it,” Spike said.

“Indeed,” Rarity said. She then remembered. “Oh! It was lovely meeting you both, but, Spike and I must get back to our suite at the castle. If I’m to make the ensemble for Twilight’s birthday, I mustn’t delay.” She levitated Spike onto her back.

“Ah, yes, of course,” Fancy smiled. “It was lovely meeting you, Rarity, and it was wonderful seeing you again, Spike. I do hope we can meet again while you’re still visiting.” He levitated them VIP tickets to the Wonderbolts.

“Au revoir,” Fluer said.

Back at the suite, Rarity was pacing the floor.

“I’ve seen this before,” Spike said to himself before saying to her directly. “Conflicting thoughts?” Rarity nodded. “Maybe I can help.”

“It’s to do with the tickets he gave us,” Rarity said. “If I go, I would lose valuable time I need for making the dress for Twilight’s party. If I don’t go, I could potentially upset Fancy Pants, one of few elite ponies who treat you with respect. The most important pony in Canterlot where nobility is concerned. His approval could mean big things for me here.” 

“Just you?” Spike said, crossing his arms in disappointment. Rarity quickly corrected herself.

“Uh, you, too, of course,” she said sincerely. “After what you’ve endured, his approval could help you, too.”

“Hmm,” Spike said. “That is a conundrum.”

“I just don’t know what to do,” Rarity said.

Spike could see Rarity was upset and confused. “Tell you what,” Spike said. “We can go to the Wonderbolts today and work on the dress when we get back.”

Hearing this, Rarity got out of her funk. “Ah, yes,” Rarity said. “As long as it’s only one social gathering, I should have plenty of time to work on the dress afterwards. And if need be, we can leave early. Spike, you’re a genius!” She hugged the little drake tightly. “I’ll give you a bowl of emeralds for dinner.”

“Thanks, Rarity,” Spike said, slightly strangled from the tightness of Rarity’s embrace. “Though, right now, oxygen would be nice~”

Rarity realized how tight she was hugging and released him. “My apologies. I suppose Pinkie must have influenced me a bit with that.”

At the derby, Rarity and Spike walked up to the Canterlot Aerial Arena. Rarity presented the security stallion with their VIP tickets. She made sure Spike was with her so he could do the same. Fancy Pants greeted them.

“Ah, Rarity, Spike,” he said happily. “I’m so glad you both could make it.”

Jet Set and Upper Crust witnessed Rarity and Spike being welcomed. They couldn’t believe their eyes.

“Wait,” Jet Set whispered to Upper Crust. “Fancy Pants welcomed that country bumpkin and a dragon into the skybox while we sit in the bleachers?!”

Rarity carried Spike up to the skybox. The two saw the skybox and were amazed. It was lavishly comfortable and various high society ponies were in attendance with Fancy Pants and Fleur de Lis. Three ponies turned their attention to Fancy Pants. One was a light amber unicorn mare with a light raspberry mane and tail with pale, light grayish rose streaks and brilliant cornflower blue eyes wearing a long sleeved magenta blouse with a white cravat, a long blue skirt, and a matching hat with an intricate swan decoration on the brim. Another was a grayish amber unicorn stallion with a pale, light grayish gold mane and tail, brilliant cobalt blue eyes, and a Cutie Mark depicting a gavel wearing glasses and a tuxedo. The third was a medium gray earth mare with brilliant amber eyes and a grayish blue mane and tail with phthalo bluish gray streaks wearing an orchid and yellow Edwardian style dress with a yellow hat with orchid and grayish violet feathers. A pair of spectacles rest on the bridge of her nose. The three approached Fancy Pants.

“Lovely seeing you again, Fancy Pants,” said the first mare.

“Likewise, Swan Song,” Fancy Pants said.

“And who are your charming new friends,” the second mare asked. “They do look a bit familiar, but, I could be mistaken.”

“I believe you should recognize them upon closer inspection,” Fancy Pants said. “Having seen them when the Princesses announced the Elements of Harmony all those months ago.”

The three looked at Spike and Rarity closely and recognized them right away. “Two of the Guardians of Harmony!” gasped the stallion with delighted elation.

“You know of us?” Rarity said.

“Naturally,” Fancy Pants said. “They were near me when you were introduced to the public. They respect you for humiliating Blueblood last Gala.” He then gestured to the three. “Introduce yourselves, if you please.”

“I’m Swan Song,” the first mare said.

“Golden Gavel is my name,” said the stallion.

“And my name is Silver Frames,” said the second mare.

Swan Song looked at Spike with keen interest.

“Uh,” Spike said. “Can I help you, miss?”

“I must apologize,” Fancy Pants said. “Ms. Song has a keen interest in zoology.”

“I am well aware you’re not an animal in the traditional sense,” Swan Song said. “But, I’ve always loved learning about different creatures ever since I was a filly on my family’s animal sanctuary. I’ve always had a particular fondness for swans.”

“What exactly is your job?” Spike asked.

“I’m a part time broadway actress,” Swan Song answered. “The rest of the time, I’m a songwriter.”

“Ah, that’s cool,” Spike said.

At that moment, the announcer spoke. “Fillies and gentlecolts, welcome to the Wonderbolts Derby! The competitors are taking their places at the starting line and the race will begin momentarily.”

“I’ll be rooting for Rapidfire, of course,” Fancy Pants said.

Fancy Pants’ colleague agreed with the stallion. Rarity, however, had her own opinion.

“Oh, Rapidfire doesn’t stand a chance against Fleetfoot,” Rarity said. “What say you, Spike?”

“I’m not sure,” Spike answered honestly. “Let’s just see who wins the race.”

The race began and the Wonderbolt competitors zoomed around the course. After record-breaking time, the winner crossed the finish line.

“And it’s Fleetfoot by a nose!” the announcer called.

“Huh,” Spike said. “Looks like you called it.”

“Bravo, Rarity,” Fancy Pants smiled. “However did you know that Fleetfoot would be victorious?”

“My friend, Rainbow Dash, talks about the Wonderbolts all the time,” Rarity said. “She said that what Fleetfoot lacks in size, she makes up for in speed.”

“If I’m not mistaken,” Silver Frames said. “Rainbow Dash bears the Element of Loyalty.”

“Yes, that’s right,” Rarity replied. “She’s an avid Wonderbolts fan and dreams of being one herself.”

“That is quite an ambition,” Fancy Pants said.

“It sure is,” Spike said. “She collects quite a bit of Wonderbolts merchandise.”

“Truly fascinating,” Golden Gavel said.

Later, Spike and Rarity were on a walk with Fancy Pants’ entourage with Spike eating a carrot dog.

“...And then she said, “Puh-lease, that isn’t a hat,’” Rarity said, concluding a story. “‘That’s a natural disaster that somehow landed atop your head!’”

The three elites laughed in response.

“Oh, you are a delight, Rarity,” Silver Frames smiled after her laughing. “You and Spike both are so wonderful. Allow me to personally invite you two to attend my art gallery opening this evening.”

“And my charity auction tomorrow morning,” Golden Gavel said.

“And my dinner party tomorrow night,” Swan Song said.

“Those do sound wonderful,” Rarity said. She then remembered that she needed the time to work on Twilight’s dress. “But, I’m afraid I must decline the invitations.”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “Rarity has to work on a dress for a friend’s birthday this weekend.”

The three elite ponies listened to Rarity and Spike’s reasons.

“Well, it is disappointing,” Silver Frames said. “But, I do understand. Still, should you change your mind, the offer is still open.”

“I extend my offer as well,” Golden Gavel said. “In case you have a spare moment, of course.”

“Likewise,” Swan Song put in.

Later at the suite, Rarity gave Spike a bowl full of emeralds as she promised.

“Here you are, Spike,” Rarity smiled.

Spike ate the emeralds and swallowed before saying, “I have business to do with Fancy Pants. I’ll be out of your way so you can work on my mom’s dress.”

“Alright,” Rarity smiled. “I’m putting trust in Fancy Pants to look after you. I’ll see you when you return.”

As soon as Spike was out the door, Rarity thought about the invitation from Silver Frames.

“It turns out bumping into Fancy Pants in town turned out very well for both Spike and myself,” she said to herself. “Twilight’s dress is my top priority, but, I can’t disappoint the Canterlot elites by declining their invitations.” She headed off to Silver Frames’ event. “Oh, do forgive me, Spike,” she thought to herself in slight guilt.******

Later at the museum, Silver Frames was delighted to see Rarity.

“Ah,” she said. “So glad you could make it. Though, where is little Spike?”

“He said he had business with Fancy Pants,” Rarity said.

“Ah, that’s understandable,” Silver Frames said. “He is a sweet thing. Though, I’ve heard that Spike can have a rather nasty temper when his friends make mistakes.”

“He does,” Rarity said. “I only hope I can be back before he realizes I’ve left and that he’ll be able to forgive me if I’m not.”

“I see,” Silver Frames said. “Well, time for the ceremony.”

Little did either of them know that at that very moment, Spike and Fancy Pants were at an enchanted gem shop down the street.

“This’ll do nicely,” Spike said.

“Forgive me,” Fancy Pants said. “I was under the impression that magically active gems had the unfortunate side effect of giving you indigestion and nausea.”

“They do,” Spike said. “But, this is something I plan to give Rarity and say that I’m saving it for my birthday dinner in case she rejects it.”

“My goodness,” Fancy Pants said. “That is incredibly generous.”

“Rarity doesn’t know what magically active gems do to me,” Spike said. “That makes it easy for her to believe that birthday dinner story.”

“I noticed the gemstones as her Cutie Mark,” Fancy Pants said. “She must like gems especially.”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “She takes me on gem hunts as a form of bonding.”

“Aww, that does sound delightful,” Fancy Pants smiled. He then noticed a dull, fire colored gem on display. “Perhaps a Fire Ruby will suffice.”*******

“A Fire Ruby, huh?” Spike said. “Well, rubies do represent love, so it would work.” He looked at the price. “200 GB********? Perfect! I can pay two platinum bits!”

So, Spike puts the two platinum bits on the counter for the salespony. With Fancy Pants present, the purchase was made with minimal fuss.

“Thanks again for your help, Fancy Pants,” Spike smiled. He stored the gem in his loose scales. “I better get back to the suite.”

“Allow me to escort you there.” Fancy Pants said. “I wouldn’t want to break Rarity’s trust by leaving you to venture on your own at night.”

“Thanks,” Spike said.

When the duo made it to the suite, Spike opened the door and found Rarity nowhere to be seen.

“Huh?” Spike said. “Where is she?”

“I would have thought she would be here working on the ensemble for Twilight,” Fancy Pants said. At that moment, Rarity was making her way back. Fancy Pants sees her. “Ah, there you are, Miss Rarity.”

“Oh,” Rarity said with trepidation. “You’re here. I can assume Spike is likewise?”

“Why, yes,” Fancy Pants said. “He’s right inside. We’ve only just returned. I’ll leave you two to your affairs.” With that, Fancy Pants took his leave.

Rarity nervously entered the suite and saw Spike there, crossing his arms with a stern look on his face.

“You want to tell me what’s going on?” he asked.

Rarity sighed. She knew she couldn’t hide her little secret, so, she took a deep breath and told Spike the truth. Spike patiently listened to every word. “I feel simply awful for abusing your trust, Spike,” Rarity said with sincerity.

Spike didn’t say anything until Rarity was finished. “While I’m not glad that you went out to spend time with Silver Frames instead of working on the gift for my mom, I do appreciate that you told me the truth. So, I’m going to give you another chance. I’ll be away on business with Fancy Pants again tomorrow and when I come back, I expect the dress to be done. Okay?”

“Alright,” Rarity said. “Thank you for forgiving me, Spike.” She nuzzled the top of his head. “We best get to sleep now.”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “We both have a busy day ahead of us.”

The next morning after Spike left, Rarity got started on Twilight’s dress, but, she had Golden Gavel’s charity auction on her mind.

“Well, charity is a good deed, of course,” Rarity muttered to herself. But, she also remembered her promise to Spike. “No! I simply cannot break his trust again.” Rarity tried to get back to work, but, she couldn’t focus. She looked at what she made so far. The dress was a simple yellow base with white trim and a pink ribbon around the waist. Frustrated with her lack of progress, she decided, with extreme reluctance, to go to the auction, rationalizing that if she went, she’d have one less distraction on her mind. She wrote a note about the ordeal first before she set off. “I can only hope Spike will be able to forgive this as well.”

Soon, she arrived at the auction house. Golden Gavel was pleased to see Rarity. Though, Rarity looked visibly guilty. “Are you alright, Rarity?”

“I feel simply dreadful taking advantage of Spike’s trust,” Rarity said.

“Oh, dear,” Golden Gavel said. “I did want the charity auction well, but, not at the expense of another’s well-being.”

“I’m afraid it’s too late to turn back now,” Rarity said. “At least I’ll have one less distraction to worry about and I’ll be supporting a good cause.”

“Well, if you’re certain,” Golden Gavel said.

Deep down, Rarity wasn’t as certain as she hoped she sounded. On one hoof, she was supporting charity as her Element of Generosity would dictate. On the other hoof, she felt she was betraying Spike’s trust again.

During this time, Spike was with Fancy Pants at a different shop. Spike purchased a tanzanite brooch for Twilight.

“Her birthstone, as you know,” Spike said. “And it should look good pinned to all the clothes she has.” He paid a platinum bit.

The shopkeep, in the presence of Fancy Pants, said as politely as she could, “Thank you for your patronage.”

The brooch was gift-wrapped and Spike stored it in his loose scales.

“Where to next?” Fancy Pants asked.

“Well,” Spike said. “How about the hardware store for gem cutting tools?”

“Ah, I do happen to know of one close by,” Fancy Pants smiled.

Later, Rarity returned from the auction to find Opal waiting impatiently.

“Oh, dear,” Rarity said. “I must have missed your feeding time.” She levitated food for Opal. “I’ll give you a smidgeon extra to make it up to you.” Opal seemed satisfied with the offer and proceeded to eat. Rarity resumed work on the dress. However, a gurgle from her belly reminded her that she hadn’t eaten herself since breakfast. She decided to get some lunch herself.

After sundown, Fancy Pants returned Spike back to the suite. They found that Rarity was once again absent.

“What?!” Spike said. “Again?!”

Fancy Pants looked at the ponyquin in the suite. “My word,” Fancy Pants said. “Is that what Rarity has been working on for Twilight?”

Spike looked at it and sighed. “At least she started this time.”

Just then, Rarity returned. She saw Spike once again looking stern. Fancy Pants, once Rarity had returned, left the two. Rarity once again sighed and explained what had happened that day.

“I just couldn’t help it, Spike,” Rarity said. “The auction was for charity and I am the Element of Generosity.”

“Well, I can’t really fault you on that,” Spike said. “And you do need food as well in order for you to do your best.”

“I also attended Swan Song’s dinner party,” Rarity admitted shamefully.

“Well,” Spike said. “While it is disappointing to learn all of this from you, I do see that you were able to get some work done on the dress for my mom. You have a two more days to finish it.”

“And they will be spent finishing the dress,” Rarity said. “No more high society events, I promise.”

“This time,” Spike said. “I’m staying to make sure you actually do it.”

“I understand,” Rarity said. “It’s clear that I can’t be trusted alone in Canterlot. I feel awful abusing your trust.”

Spike could sense that Rarity really did feel guilty and he gave her a hug. “I’ll ease up a bit when we get home.”

The next morning after breakfast, Rarity was having trouble getting into the flow of work. Spike noticed this.

“What’s wrong?” Spike asked.

“I started working on this as a means of venting my anger,” Rarity said. “That anger has since ebbed away.”

“I see,” Spike said. “So, what are you going to do?”

“I’m afraid I don’t know, Spike,” Rarity said. “My creative process is stifled. You do know of Twilight more than I do. Is there any way I can modify this to put this in theme with her interests that you can think of?”

“Hmm,” Spike said, thinking as he looked over the dress. “Well, this dress is simple and practical. Kind of like my mom.”

Both he and Rarity looked at the dress. They could also picture Twilight wearing the dress as it was presented.

“But, what if she requests modifications?” Rarity asked.

“I don’t think that’ll be a problem,” Spike said. “Remember when you made her and the others dresses for the Gala?”

“Ah, yes,” Rarity said. “The ones meeting their specifications were terrible.”

“Which is why they’ll accept anything you make them from now on,” Spike said.

“You’re right, Spike,” Rarity said. “It may not be as fabulous as I imagined it would be in my sketch, but, if it was, it would be more of a gift for myself. Besides, I can find other uses for the extra materials I bought.” She stretched her back. “What do you say we get some fresh air?”

“Sure,” Spike said. “Hopefully, somewhere where you and I can both be safe.”

Rarity lowered herself so Spike could climb onto her back. He did so and held onto her gently.

During the walk through Canterlot, the two ran into Twilight’s parents, Night Light and Twilight Velvet.

“Aww, hi, Spike~!” Night Light said.

“And hello, Rarity,” Twilight Velvet smiled. “We heard that you were visiting for the week.”

“We’re actually going to have to leave for Ponyville today,” Rarity said. “To make it in time for Twilight’s birthday tomorrow.”

“Ah, I see,” Night Light said. “We hope you had a lovely visit though.”

“Despite some elites speaking down to Spike,” Rarity said. “Yes.”

“Something tells me you met Jet Set and Upper Crust,” Velvet said, her normal chipper demeanor faded to annoyance. She then levitated Spike over to her and embraced him. “Don’t let them get to you, sweetie.”

“Believe me, Rarity was more upset with them than I was,” Spike said.

“At first,” Night Light said. “We thought Twilight wasn’t ready to raise you and that you’d end up like other dragons. But, the two of you have proven us wrong.”

“How do you mean by other dragons?” Rarity asked. “Had you met other dragons before?”

“We knew that dragons had a bad reputation as greedy, violent monsters,” Velvet said.

“But, had you met one that was like that?” Rarity asked.

“No,” Night Light admitted. “Nor did we plan to meet any dragons. Now, here we are, proud grandparents of one.”

“Yes, Spike is a marvel,” Rarity said. “But, it wouldn’t be fair to compare Spike to other dragons if you hadn’t met other dragons to make a comparison to.”

“Yes,” Velvet said. “We know that now.”

“Thank you, Rarity,” Night Light said. “For looking after our grandson.”

“He has kept me in line for most of this week as well,” Rarity said. “But, I’m glad I could help.”

When Rarity and Spike returned to their suite, they saw an envelope on the floor inside.

“Huh?” Spike said. “What’s this about?” He picked it up and saw it was addressed to both himself and Rarity.

Rarity opened it and read the letter inside. “Dearest Rarity and Spike, your presence is requested at the Canterlot Garden Party tomorrow afternoon.” She was surprised. “The Canterlot Garden Party?! Aside from the Grand Galloping Gala, that is the premier event in Canterlot!”

“Uh, you seem to be forgetting something,” Spike said.

Rarity gasped. “You’re right. If I was to attend this soiree, I won’t be able to make it to Twilight’s birthday party.” She found herself conflicted again. “Whatever am I to do?”

Spike began thinking. He then had an idea. “Maybe we can arrange for my mom and her family to have the party here in Canterlot!” he suggested.

“You can do that?” Rarity asked.

“Remember how at first, I could only send or receive messages to or from Princess Celestia?” Spike asked.

“Why, yes,” Rarity said.

“Luna’s been teaching me to send messages to the other Guardians of Harmony and my mom’s family,” Spike said.

“Ah, that is wonderful,” Rarity smiled. “I wonder if I should tell Twilight that this is because Opal’s too sick to make the journey.”

“Now, you know that wouldn’t be right,” Spike said. “You were able to tell the truth to me earlier and I don’t want you to lie now. Speaking from experience, lying about something won’t end well. You’re better off telling the truth even if it hurts.”

“You’re right, Spike,” Rarity said. “You really are a precocious young drake. I can only hope Twilight will forgive me for abusing your trust.”

“Once you explain the situation,” Spike said. “I’m sure both she and Fancy Pants will.” He then looked at the letter and gasped when he saw who the letter was from. “Oh, no! It’s from Jet Set and Upper Crust!”

“What?!” Rarity gasped. “I thought it was from Fancy Pants or one of his entourage ponies considering you were also invited, by name, even! I suspect there’s a foul plot ahoof.”

“Hmm,” Spike said. “I think it would be better to invite Mom and her friends here after all. I think I have a plan. For good measure, I better invite my grandparents and Uncle Shining Armor.”

“Oh, Spike, you are clever,” Rarity said. “And it would be good in the sense they would want to spend time with Twilight on her birthday, too.”

The next day at noon, Rarity and Spike were getting ready. Rarity was wearing a pastel yellow cloak with a gold fastener and oval-shaped spinel in the center. Her long curled tail was accented with blue and white flowers. Spike was wearing an emerald green tuxedo Rarity made out of spare materials. Rarity also put a white daisy in his left lapel.

“Are you ready, Spike?” she asked.

“I certainly am,” he answered. “Thanks again for the tuxedo.”

The duo made their way to the door. Rarity opened the door to find the friends they invited had just arrived.

“Ah,” she said. “I see you all got the letters.”

“We sure did,” Applejack smiled.

“Your ensemble looks lovely, Rarity,” Fluttershy said politely. “And Spike, you look so dapper.”

“I’ve invited you over because of this,” Spike said, giving Shining Armor the invitation from Jet Set and Upper Crust. Shining Armor looked over the invitation carefully.

“Hmm, that is suspicious,” Shining Armor said. “I know those two and I know they wouldn’t even consider inviting a dragon, let alone have their proper name written. They wrote your name sloppily while everything else is perfectly neat.” Twilight looked it over herself.

“What do you think, Twilight?” Rainbow asked.

“This is bait for an elaborate trap if ever I saw one,” Twilight said. “Jet Set and Upper Crust don’t even like Spike. They’re clearly trying to find a way to humiliate him.”

“That’s terrible!” Pinkie gasped. “That is a poor use of a party!”

“Well, they won’t get away with this ‘long as we have somethin’ ta say ‘bout it,” Applejack said.

“And we want to help any way we can, too,” Velvet said.

“I think I have an idea,” Twilight said. “We’ll look for traps under the guise of being rowdy partygoers.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow said. “If anypony knows how to get rowdy, it’s us! Especially Pinkie.”

“When there’s a good party,” Pinkie said. “I just got to shake my tail at it!”

“Oh and before I forget,” Rarity said. “Twilight, I have your birthday gift ready.” She levitated the dress to Twilight.

“Oh, Rarity,” Twilight smiled. “It’s simple, practical, and so me! It’s perfect for my birthday. Thank you so much. I love the colors and the shape.”

Later, the group made their way to the castle ballroom.

“Luckily, we were able to convince Princess Celestia to have our party here,” Shining Armor said. “Right within proximity of the garden party.”

“Indeed,” Rarity said. “And it’s remarkable that it was decorated so quickly.”

“You’re welcome,” Pinkie said before making a squeaky toy noise with a smile.

“So, everypony ready ta party down?” Applejack asked.

“And check for traps,” Rainbow said.

“Let’s do this!” Night Light said eagerly.

Loud music was played on a phonograph. The friends and family started dancing around gleefully, even doing a conga line. Rarity and Spike made their way to the garden party.

Out in the garden, the orchestra ponies from the gala were playing elegant music. Despite the fact that it was late autumn, it seemed as though there were hints of spring notes in the air.

“We’re here,” Rarity said.

“Darling,” Upper Crust said in a saccharine sweet voice to Rarity. “So glad you could make it.”

“So, happy to see you and Spike here,” Fancy Pants smiled.

“We’ve prepared hors d'oeuvres that will accommodate your dragon,” Jet Set said, gesturing to a pile of rocks on a plate.

“Uh,” Spike said, feigning politeness. “Thank you.” Deep down, he was deeply offended. Rarity could sense this. Though, I have a feeling that this isn’t the worst offense they have planned for me, Spike thought to himself.

“One of them might be a geode,” Rarity whispered to Spike.

“Somehow, I doubt that,” Spike whispered back. Spike carefully checked each rock in the pile. Only one was a geode and it had quartz. Spike seemed to perk up at this. “Huh, look at that.”

I bet they weren’t expecting that, Rarity thought to herself.

“You are an oddity,” Jet Set said. “You have a perfectly good selection of rocks to dine on.”

Spike chose not to dignify that with a response. Rarity wanted to give Spike a chance to cheer up, so she made an excuse for him. “Oh, all of those hors d'oeuvres do sound delicious. Perhaps we should partake in the ones at the refreshment tables.” She stepped up to the refreshment tables, bringing Spike with her. They then elaborately walked back to Twilight’s party.

“You find any traps?” Shining asked.

“Only a pile of rocks they’re trying to pass off as hors d’oeuvres for me,” Spike said.

“That’s speciesist on their part,” Velvet said, upset.

“How exactly?” Rainbow asked. “Aren’t gems rocks anyway?”

“Regular rocks don’t have a taste to them,” Spike said. “I tried eating one once and it tasted like garbage.”

“And on top of that,” Rarity said. “You don’t eat grass that’s been walked upon, do you, Rainbow?”

“We all kind o’ do, Rarity,” Applejack said. “Where dya think the hay in restaurants comes from?”

“Oh…” Rarity said sheepishly. “Right. There’s that analogy wasted. How about this: you wouldn’t eat rotten fruit, would you?”

“No way,” Rainbow said. After a beat, she got the idea. “Oohhhh~ Sorry, Spike.”

“Other than that, any traps?” Twilight asked.

“I didn’t see any yet,” Rarity said. “But, I’m going to keep checking.”

“Let’s go, Rarity,” Spike said.

Together, the two went back to the garden party. Spike carefully marked likely spots to check for traps. He reviewed them with Rarity in a subtle manner, but, Rarity was able to catch on with her Mystic Eyes.

Soon, the two reported the possible trap locations to the attendees of Twilight’s party.

“Understood,” Shining said. “We’ll keep our eyes open on those locations from here.”

“Looks like it’s time for Operation: Pinkie Fodder!” Rainbow said.

“I really wish we hadn’t let Rainbow name the plan,” Twilight said. “Anyway, let’s move out!”

“Can I use my party cannon?!” Pinkie asked.

“Fire away, Pinkie!” Spike said excitedly.

“You finished that project?” Rarity asked.

“How else do you think I set up these decorations so fast?” Pinkie asked. “When I need quick party prep or I want to spread much-needed confetti everywhere, I call upon my secret weapon: my party cannon!” She pulled out a blue cannon with pink wheels sporting flower hubcaps. “It took me months to get it right.”

“Pinkie, will you ever cease to amaze us?” Rarity asked with a smile. “Anyway, I’m ready when all of you are.”

The attendees of Twilight’s party made their move. Pinkie led the congo, firing her party cannon and launching confetti in the open air. Rainbow checked the croquet field. She didn’t see any sign of a trap there. Fluttershy checked near the trees. She didn’t see anything there, other than the birds that nested in the trees. Even when she questioned them, they answered that they hadn’t seen anything where they were at out of the ordinary aside from Fluttershy and her friends. Pinkie was distracted by the refreshments. However, in a cake she was eating, she found an ink pack trap.

“I found something!” Pinkie called. She pulled out the pack.

“An ink pack in a cake?” Applejack asked in alarm. “Well, that’s not very well-planned. What if somepony broke open that ink pack ‘fore Spike?” She did some digging and discovered pit traps. “Ah-ha! Found somethin’ over here, too!”

While all this was happening, Twilight was dancing intentionally horribly to draw attention away from her friends. Shining Armor was cheering her on.

“Go, Twily, it’s your birthday,” he sang. “Yes, really, it’s her birthday.”

Jet Set and Upper Crust were growing irritated.

“Why is it so difficult to incriminate a little dragon?!” Jet Set blurted for all to hear.

The garden party attendees looked at the two snobbish ponies in shock. The attendees of Twilight’s party gave knowing glances. It was at that point Jet Set realized his mistake.

“So that’s why you invited Spike,” Fancy Pants said. “Jet Set, Upper Crust, I am appalled by your awful intentions.” The other attendees made murmurs of agreement.

“Well,” Upper Crust said. “The filthy beast has no place here. Nor do those ruffians.”

“Ruffians, nothing!” Fancy Pants said sternly. “Those so-called ruffians are the Guardians of Harmony and Spike is an honorary member of said group.”

“It’s more than he deserves,” Jet Set said.

“Now, now,” Fancy Pants said. “There will be none of that sort of nonsense. Not unless you want me to tell Princess Celestia that you tried to throw her personal student and her friends out of her own birthday party. And frankly, it's rather ungrateful, given that these ponies and this drake have saved Equestria twice by this point.”*********

“That won’t be necessary,” said the familiar voice of Princess Celestia.

Spike and the ponies turned to see their benevolent leader walking into the garden. Celestia had a very stern look on her face. Clearly, she was not happy with Jet Set and Upper Crust’s plan or their attitude towards Spike.

“Are you aware of the charges you face?” she asked the posh couple.

“Because if you’re not,” Shining Armor said, walking up next to Princess Celestia. “I’ll be more than happy to fill you in. I may be out of uniform, but, I’m still Sergeant of the Royal Guard.” The posh couple grew nervous. “You stand accused of conspiracy to incriminate a minor, exploitation of a public event, attempted poisoning, and digging on castle grounds without a permit.”

“They certainly look guilty if you ask me,” Golden Gavel said.

“Sergeant,” Celestia said. “Place them under arrest until they can have a trial.”

“Yes, your highness,” Shining Armor said with a salute. He then got onto his responsibility.

As Jet Set and Upper Crust were taken away, Princess Celestia faced Rarity. “I trust you’ve learned something from this experience?”

“Yes, Princess Celestia,” Rarity said. “I learned that no matter where I go in life, I must remember that I am the product of my upbringing and no matter what that may be, I must never be ashamed of it. I also learned that I shouldn’t abuse the trust of my friends.”

“A very valuable lesson to learn,” Princess Celestia smiled.

“What’s this about abusing a friend’s trust?” Twilight asked. Spike, thinking quickly, gave Twilight the present he got her. Twilight, seeing the gift box, opens it to reveal the tanzanite brooch. “Oh, Spike~ it’s so beautiful! Thank you so much.” She hugged the little dragon while looking sternly at Rarity. “We’ll discuss this later.”

Rarity nodded understandingly.

The next morning, the other Guardians of Harmony helped with Rarity’s luggage as she explained her story to Twilight. Twilight listened and didn’t say anything until after Rarity finished.

“I’m not happy with you abusing Spike’s trust the way you did,” Twilight said. “However, I can see that you regret doing so.”

“Oh, I did regret doing so,” Rarity said. “And still do. I may not have known Spike for as long as you have, but, he does mean a lot to me. I have every intention of making it up to him and you.”

“In a way,” Twilight said. “You did already get a start at doing that by inviting my friends, my family, and myself up to party here. You also made sure Spike was safe in the garden party.”

“And you made sure Spike wasn’t on his own,” Fluttershy said.

“I promised him and myself that I wouldn’t,” Rarity said. “After what I’ve seen first hoof, I would have never forgiven myself if I left him alone in Canterlot. I was initially worried about Fancy Pants and Fleur de Lis discriminating against him. Luckily, that wasn’t the case.”

“True,” Twilight said. “Though, I admit, I probably could have told you that if I thought you’d run into them.”

Rarity and Spike shared a giggle. “We did run into them,” Rarity said. “Quite literally as a matter of fact.”

“Huh,” Twilight said. “I meant it figuratively and it literally happened.”

“Yeah,” Spike said. “Luckily, he wasn't hurt.”

With that, the Guardians of Harmony boarded the train to Ponyville. As they were traveling, Rarity couldn’t help but wonder to herself.

I see that Spike got that lovely tanzanite brooch for Twilight, Rarity said internally. Likely thanks to Fancy Pants for his help. I wonder what other business Spike had with him? Perhaps I’ll leave him to it and trust that if he does want to tell me, he’s more than welcome to.

End of chapter.