A pair of light purple eyes steadily fluttered open as they slowly spun from disorientation. Trixie’s vision spun, her gaze blurry, following all the running she had done. True she spent her time pulling a wagon from town to town, but it had been so long since she ‘actually’ ran so fast and so quickly too. Above her the rest of the Equestrians and Spike stood over her, Twilight waving her hoof over Trixie’s face.
“Are you alright Trixie?” She asked concerned.
“Can you hear us darling?” Rarity added.
“Is she even alive?” Spike asked the group.
“Hey!” Rainbow yelled. “Instead of playing twenty questions, get her some water already!”
Twilight nodded and quickly used her magic to conjure a glass of water, which she gently leaned down so the liquid could trickle down Trixie’s throat. As Trixie drank, slowly but surely, her senses returned one by one. Soon as she was finished, she sat up quickly with a gasp and breathed heavily.
“Thank goodness!” Fluttershy sighed in relief. “We were worried you might not wake up.”
“Ah don’t know ‘bout that Fluttershy,” Applejack disagreed. “Might be takin’ it a bit too far.”
“Either way, we’re just glad you’re feeling better,” Twilight said. “You are better, are you?”
Trixie took a few more breaths, recomposing herself as she looked at all the others around her.
“Trixie hasn’t run like that in such a long time,” She said breathless. “I had no idea how out of shape I’ve truly become.”
“Maybe you could do a trick to make that extra weight disappear,” Rainbow joked.
She laughed at her own humor, but quickly stopped soon as she noticed every pony and Spike, minus Maud, glaring at her.
“I’ll be quiet…”
Twilight turned toward the steps to the Everglot mansion, noting Victor and his parents entering. Quick as a whip, she conjured her magic to turn herself and her friends invisible once more, silently gesturing them to follow. They quickly make their way through the door as the Everglot’s butler, regarding the Van Dorts with barely concealed disdain, closed the door behind the guests.
Once inside, the girls all got a good look around the mansion’s interior. Much like the rest of London, it was dark and gloomy, overall ‘very’ depressing. Many portraits lined the walls, many of which were Mr. Everglot’s ancestors, a majority of which resemble the toad-faced man. A grand piano stood off the corner of the foyer, near the grand staircase which Mr. and Mrs. Everglot stood at the bottom of.
“I rather enjoy the fine décor of this fine establishment,” Rarity commented quietly. “But I do believe a bit of color would really living things up.”
“Yer not kiddin’,” Applejack nodded. “This place is ‘bout as lively as a tomb.”
“Actually, tombs might just be a little livelier,” Rainbow corrected.
“It r-r-really just g-gives me c-chills,” Fluttershy shook fearfully.
Pinkie Pie bounced merrily over her frightened friend, placing a comforting hoof around her.
“Aww it’s alright Fluttershy,” She assured. “There’s nothing scary about this place. I mean aside from the darkness… and the creepy echo of footsteps… and that freak shadow racing across the walls every now and then…”
Fluttershy squeaked and hid herself deep within her mane, trembling harder than before. Pinkie noticed this quickly, realizing the mistake she made… again.
“Oopsie, sorry about that,” She apologized. “Didn’t mean to startle you Flutters! Just remember the song I taught you all that time ago…”
Suddenly, some upbeat music began to play in the background and Pinkie starts getting in the groove
“Oh don’t tell me she’s going to…” Twilight began.
After Pinkie concluded one of her famous songs, Fluttershy slowly peeled her head out from her mane and looked toward her smiling friend. Hearing the familiar tune, along with seeing Pinkie’s infectious smile, Fluttershy felt slightly better. Slowly, she sat up and put on a teeny tiny smile.
Amazing that the occupants of the manor did not even hear that…
Don’t ruin the moment.
“See, that’s better,” Pinkie smiled. “Even Maud got into the spirit of the song. See how happy she is?”
Every pony turned toward Maud, who just stared stone-faced at one of the motionless portraits. It almost seemed like she was in a never-ending staring contest with the frozen face in the picture. Neither one backing down, neither one blinked, the anticipation ran thick as every pony wonder which one was going to…
Are you being serious right now?
No! It’s just so boring I had to ‘try’ to make it fun.
Well, guess what?
What?
It’s not working.
I know…
Anyways… while the ponies and Spike preoccupied themselves, the Van Dorts made their way toward the staircase where the Everglots waited for them.
“Oh my goodness!” Mrs. Van Dort admired. “Oh, such grandeur. Such impeccable taste!”
“Oh, beautifull innit?” Mr. Van Dort asked.
“It’s not as big as our place, dear.”
“Bit shappy really, innit?”
“Shut up!”
As they went back and forth, Emil, the butler, quickly made his way between the two families to make the introductions.
“Lord and Lady Everglot,” He gestured to them. “Mr. and Mrs. Van Dort.”
Mrs. Van Dort gave a courteous bow to the Everglots, while Mr. Van Dort took off his hat in respect. He then attempted to charm the pair, but sadly failed miserably.
“Why, you must be Miss Victoria,” He said to Mrs. Everglot. “I must say you don’t look a day over twenty! No. Oh yes.”
Mrs. Van Dort merely nudged her husband’s side with her elbow, glaring as she cringed with embarrassment. Meanwhile, Mrs. Everglot just sneered and whispered to her husband.
“Smile, darling, smile,” Maudeline told Finish, under her breath.
“Let’s get this over with, shall we?” Finish whispered back.
Mr. Everglot’s lips quivered, shaking with tremendous effort as he forced himself to twist his mouth into a huge, fake, and very forced smile to the Van Dorts. Clearly to hide the fact he really did not care for them in the least.
“Well hello!” He greeted through his teeth. “What a pleasure. Welcome to our home.”
“Thank you!” Mrs. Van Dort thanked.
The parents come together in an awkward ritual of handshakes, bows and air-kisses. The two mothers offer each other false smiles. Then Maudeline turned toward the Butler.
“We will be taking tea in the west drawing room,” Mrs. Everglot announced. “Do tell Victoria that the Van Dorts have arrived.”
The Butler tipped his head before turning away to inform the young Everglot.
“Oh, do come this way, it’s just through there,” Mrs. Everglot informed the Van Dorts.
“Oh, I love what you’ve done with the place!” Mrs. Van Dort praised.
The parents turn as a group and made their way down the hall into the west drawing room, leaving Victor and the Equestrians to themselves standing in the foyer, completely forgotten. Soon as the coast was clear, the room completely empty, Twilight Sparkle switched off her spell and she, along with the group, are visible once more. Applejack approached Victor’s side, shaking her head as they watched the two familiars leave.
“Ah ain’t never seen such phony-bolonga in all mah years,” She remarked. “Ya can clearly tell them Everglots ain’t too keen on this wedding one bit!”
Trixie nodded, as she and the others stepped forward.
“Trixe may put on an act herself, but hers is always with good intentions of wowing the audience. These folks give us show-ponies a terrible name!”
“You said it,” Rainbow agreed.
“Indeed!” Rarity nodded.
“I may not be very expressive, but at least you always know I’m honest about what I say,” Maud piped in.
Victor sighed, shaking his head as he stood unsure of what to do. He still wasn’t all too glad about this whole arrangement still, even more so than the Everglots themselves. Least he had something in common with his future parents-in-law. Looking around nervously, his eyes glance around the large dreary room with drab, formal paintings. As he rested his hand down, a single note played and he looked down to see he stumbled onto the grand piano, about the size of a small boat. Irresistibly drawn to it, wanting to relieve himself of some tension, Victor sat upon the bench and glanced over the keys.
“Do you play darling?” Rarity asked.
“Indeed I do,” Victor nodded. “Mother always wanted me to take up an instrument as a boy. She believed when I marry one day, it would be polite of me to entertain guests for myself and my future bride.”
“Forgive me for saying this Victor,” Twilight apologized. “It just seems your mother has always been more concerned about marrying you into nobility more than actually being a parent.”
“No offense taken,” Victor sighed. “I’ve already known for the longest time.”
“That’s just awful,” Fluttershy whispered.
“Sorry to hear about that Victor,” Spike said. “At least you learned a pretty cool skill with the piano. How good are you?”
Victor looked upon the tiny dragon and the ponies, offering a slight ghost of a smile.
“I’ll show you.”
Victor touched the keys caressingly and begins to play, at first haltingly, then losing himself in the music. His song is sad but dreamy, a very beautiful and haunting melody. On the piano, a small vase holding a single stem of winter jasmine sat in place.
https://m.His nimble fingers glided gently over the ivory keys of the piano with a sense of grace and poise. Every pony and Spike sat as they listened to him play. They couldn’t help but sway along to the beautiful song.
Rarity immediately though of her husband Erik, noticing how Victor played with the same sort of musical elegance her beloved usually would when working on his latest masterpieces. Applejack and Rainbow sat side by side as they listened to the boy play. As he went on, Applejack slowly leaned her head right along the crook of Rainbow’s neck. Rainbow’s eyes darted over to the country pony leaning onto her, but rather than pushing her off, she smiled and rested her head atop of Applejack’s as they both smiled. Even Maud, normally showing little to no emotion, had a tiny glimmer of a smile curl up in the corner of her mouth. As it turned out, they weren’t the only ones enjoying the performance.
From her room, Victoria Everglot was finished with making herself presentable, as she nervously adjusted her dress and tied her hair into a tight bun. She looked in the mirror, admiring her appearance in her dark-gray, wine-red striped dress. Just then, the sound of music floated toward her and she stopped, transfixed. With her attention caught, she quickly made her way out to see where the music was emanating from.
She reached the top of the grand staircase, looking down to see Victor playing the piano. She cannot help but smile a little. With a lady’s grace, she slowly ascended the stairs with her arms behind her back, as voices speak from the doorway of the drawing room where the parents are gathered. William Van Dort was in the midst of relating a rather boring tale, much to Nell’s chagrin.
“I never understood why men needed black shoes and brown shoes, when a quick coat of paint can turn one into the other!”
Crossing past the door, Victoria quietly walked behind Victor, seated at the piano and his back turned to her. He continued to play, lost in his music.
“How lovely,” Victoria spoke.
Startled, Victor turned to look back at the Equestrians only to catch sight of Victoria, who looks as pretty as a picture, standing behind him. Victor stumbled and nearly knocking over the small flower vase.
“Oh… I… do forgive me,” He obliged, catching the vase.
Victoria just giggled slightly, as she gazed at the young man. She had not taken notice of the ponies or the dragon, who all sat looking at her in anticipation of what she will do when she sees them.
“You play beautifully,” She complimented.
Then Victoria turned toward Victor’s side and noticed the group of Equestrians. Already they were expecting her to scream, perhaps even run and inform her parents. Thy all, minus Maud, flinched and awaited a loud, shrilling scream… one that never came. They all opened their eyes again, looking back at her only to find her smiling toward them all.
“How do you all do?” She asked politely.
This caught them all, even Victor, by complete surprise. When he came into contact with them the first time, they had to stop him from almost having a heart attack. However, Victoria looked at them as though this was completely normal. Wanting to test this, Twilight spoke up.
“You’re not scared of us?” She asked nervously.
To which Victoria just shook her head.
“Not at all,” She answered. “As a matter of fact, I am most humbled and honored to meet you.”
“Okay, wait a minute!” Rainbow interrupted. “How are you so cool with this? Everyone else we’ve ever met for the first time, we’ve either had to stop them from screaming, fainting, or a combination of both. You’re the only one that hasn’t done either yet.”
“Terribly sorry for the interruption,” Victor spoke up. “But I’m afraid I must agree.”
Victoria just knelt down, holding out her hand before them. Hesitantly, Twilight inched her way forward till she felt Victoria’s slender fingers scratching under her chin. It felt so good she couldn’t help but twitch her leg as she sighed in contentment. Spike, and every pony else (Again, not Maud), had to stifle their laughter as they saw Twilight behaving like a common dog.
“When I was a child, I had this strange connection with animals,” Victoria explained. ‘Whenever I walked through town with my parents and came upon any animal, I would always stop and talk to them. Never could understand why but they always listened intently, and I could understand them.”
“It doesn’t even bother you some of us are Pegasi and Unicorns?” Rainbow asked.
“Or a dragon?” Spike added.
“I will admit it is a little unusual yes, but I love all manner of creatures just the same.”
This caused everyone to smile, calming themselves. There was not a single trace of falseness in her words nor any indication she was joking. Victoria truly did seem like a kind, down-to-earth young lady. Eventually, she stopped scratching Twilight’s chin and the lavender alicorn Princess stopped twitching.
“My name is Victoria by the way,” She introduced herself.
“It’s very nice to meet you Victoria,” Twilight said kindly. “I’m Twilight and this is Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Trixie, and Maud.”
“Ahem!”
Twilight looked down toward Spike, seeing his arms crossed.
“And my favorite little assistant Spike, of course.”
Spike nodded, as he scampered onto Twilight’s back.
“Very lovely to meet you all,” Victoria said, with a slight curtsy.
With introductions in order, Victor finally spoke up over what just happened.
“I-I-I do apologize, Miss Everglot,” He apologized. “How rude of me to—well—excuse me…”
Once again, Victoria giggled a little as she herself walked over to the piano impetuously.
“The song… what is it called?” Victoria asked.
“Oh, it was…” Victor stammered. “Just something I came across.”
“Came across where?”
“Well… it was inside of me, I guess.”
“How nice you found a way to let it out.”
Victoria’s fingers slide across the keys.
“Mother won’t allow me near the piano,” She continued. “Music is improper for a young lady. Too passionate, she says.”
“No offense or anything Victoria, but your mother sounds horrible,” Rainbow said bluntly.
“RAINBOW!” Applejack yelled.
“SHH!!!” The Equestrians hushed, checking the drawing room door.
“What? It’s the truth,” Rainbow said defensively.
“If I may ask, M-Miss Everglot, where is your chaperone?” Victor asked nervously.
Victoria merely smiled, as she slowly approached Victor.
“Perhaps, in view of the circumstances, you could call me, ‘Victoria’,” She said sweetly.
Victor chuckled nervously, rubbing his knees as he slowly backed away.
“Yes, yes, of course,” He chuckled. “Well, Victoria…”
“Yes, Victor?”
“Tomorrow, we are to be… m—m—”
“Married?” Victoria guessed, with a smile.
“Yes, m-married,” Victor nodded.
Once again, Victoria walked back over to the piano and sat along the bench.
“Since I was a child, I’ve dreamt of my wedding day,” She said fondly. “I always hoped to find someone I was deeply in love with. Someone to spend the rest of my life with. Silly, isn’t it?”
“Yes, silly,” Victor chuckled, quickly realizing his mistake. “N-No. No, not at all.”
“It’s not a silly idea at all Victoria,” Rarity said. “Coming from some pony who met and fell in love with an amazing man such as myself, marrying the one you love is the most magical moment of all.”
“Abso-positive-olutely!” Pinkie nodded enthusiastically. “Love is even better than chocolate cake covered in molten layer peanut butter and topped with red chili flakes.”
Everyone looked at Pinkie with raised eyebrows in confusion.
“The Great and Powerful Trixie has no idea what you’re talking about,” Trixie spoke.
“Oh, that’s right!” Pinkie giggled. ‘Guess those pregnancy cravings never really left.”
The others just shook their heads, Victor and Victoria laughing nervously as they moved a tad closer. Victor leaned on the piano a little too far and accidentally knocked over the tiny vase and the flowers in it.
“Oh dear, I’m sorry,” He apologized quickly.
Seeing the mess, Pinkie Pie pulled out a handkerchief from her mane and handed it to Rarity, who hastily cleaned the spill. But as she looked up toward the Lady Everglot, she slowly stopped and seemed surprised.
Victoria, however possible, didn’t seem to mind as she picked up the flowers and smiled as she took in their scent. She handed the flower to Victor who smiled as he took it. Every pony else smiled over the cute scene unfolding before them. Two people, who before today had no prior meetings or communication, yet the way they interacted just now felt as if they’ve known each other forever. That perhaps they actually might have something a little more, and…
“What impropriety is this?”
The moment was ruined, as everyone quickly turned spotting Mrs. Everglot standing there and looked upon Victor and Victoria with a look of upmost disapproval. Thankfully, Twilight casted her spell quickly so every pony and herself were out of sight before the lady could see them.
“You shouldn’t be alone together! Here it is one minute before five, and you’re not at the rehearsal. Pastor Galswells is waiting. Come at once!”
Mrs. Everglot proceeded back into the drawing room, as Victor and Victoria looked after her in dread. Eventually, they found their feet under them and started towards the drawing room as well. Twilight and the others watched them walk off and couldn’t help but feel sorry for them.
“Why’d that old crone have to come and wreck the moment?” Rainbow grumbled.
“I agree!” Rarity nodded. “It really felt like they were actually bonding there. Perhaps even starting to fall for one another.”
“I say we follow them in,” Twilight suggested.
“Ah agree with Twilight on this one,” Applejack agreed. “Who knows wht kinda tomfoolery them parents ah them’ll put them poor kids through?”
“The Great and Powerful Trixie for one think spying on them would be quite rude,” Trixie piped in.
“Don’t worry guys,” Twilight assured. “We’ll just go in and watch them rehearse, then we’ll be gone. We’ll be in and out in no time.”
<>
The group gathered in the drawing room to rehearse the wedding ceremony. Seated are Finish and Maudeline, William and Nell. The front of the room has been set up as a makeshift altar. An elaborately carved table holds a pair of candles and a chalice. Pressure is high. It’s the social event of the decade, and Maudeline Everglot has left nothing to chance, obsessively planning to the tiniest detail. An event… that feels like three hours of torment for one alicorn mare.
Twilight banged her head on the floor of the west drawing room, wishing this would just end already. Everyone else slumped along the floor, completely bored out of their minds. Normally, a wedding rehearsal doesn’t take this long. However, with a nervous groom like Victor Van Dort, you better be ready for a long road ahead.
“Three… whole… HOURS!” Twilight groaned.
“I told you we should’ve just left and waited elsewhere after the first half hour!” Spike told her.
Twilight slowly turned and glared at the little dragon, who upon seeing her heated gaze slowly stepped backward and whistled awkwardly.
“Somebody please just strike me down now before I die of boredom!” Rainbow moaned.
“Normally I’m all for the beauty of a wedding rehearsal,” Rarity sighed. “However, three hours is just far too long.”
While they laid upon the floor, slowly wasting away, the rehearsal continued up in the front of the altar. Pastor Galswells, a rather large and skinny man in priest’s robes holding a crook, overlooked the rehearsal. He was generally a tame man but did not like having his time wasted. Right here and now, with a stern, forbidding glare, his patience was being pushed to the limit as Victor trembled in nervous agony.
“Master Van Dort, from the beginning… AGAIN!” He said impatiently. “With this hand, I will lift your sorrows. Your cup will never empty, for I will be your wine. With this candle, I shall light your way in darkness. With this ring, I ask you to be mine.”
They had gone over these vows for the longest time and still Victor was yet to even make it past the first line. Each time he looked back at his parents, they tried to be as supportive as they could while still wanting him to move along. Then there was the Everglots, looking completely annoyed and upset. Needless to say, not really a whole lot of support and motivation to get this right. Nevertheless, he tried his best to move on.
“Let’s try it again,” Pastor Galswells said.
“Yes, yes sir,” Victor nodded. “With this candle…”
Victor attempted to light the ceremonial candle, but for whatever reason it refused to light.
“This candle…”
But again, the candle refused to light.
“This candle…”
Still nothing…
“Shall I get up there and do it for him?” Mrs. Van Dort whispered harshly.
“Don’t get all aflutter, dear,” Mr. Van Dort answered quietly.
“Poor Victor…” Fluttershy whispered, sympathetically.
“Just… give him a chance…” Rarity replied, anxiously. “
“Rarity, he’s already stumbled over the hand lifts and the steps,” Rainbow grumbled. “How many more chances can he get?”
The priest cleared his throat, drawing Victor back to the front of the altar as he once more tried to at least pass the candle bit. And to his amazement, the candle actually lit to his relief.
“With this candle…”
A chuckle escaped Victor’s lips, which accidentally doused out the tiny fire. Moans and groans were heard from the parents, even Trixie twisted her own hat anxiously. While Maud Pie… well it was difficult to tell what she was thinking.
“Continue!” Galswell called out.
*BONG!”
The large doorbell of the Everglot’s door rang, Galswells’s right eye twitched over the unwanted interruption.
“Get the door, Emil!” Mr. Everglot gestured.
Emil the butler parted from drawing room and made his way to answer the door.
“Let’s just pick it up at the candle bit,” Galswells grumbled.
Before they can proceed on schedule, Emil quickly returned to Mr. Everglot’s side with a single card in his right hand.
“A Lord Barkis, sir,” Emil spoke, handing the note.
Mr. Everglot takes the notecard from Emil, who quickly scampered away. Reading the note was the name ‘Sir Barkis Bittern’. Suddenly, another set of footsteps draws the Equestrians to a stranger approaching the front of the alter. A handsome, yet mysterious man who resembled that of a lawyer judging by the way he dressed. They wondered what manner of business he had and if he were in relation with that of either the Van Dorts or the Everglots.
“I haven’t a head for dates,” The man replied smugly. “Apparently, I’m a day early for the ceremony.”
Mrs. Everglot took the note sharply from her husband’s hand, reading the name as Mr. Everglot leaned beside her.
“Is he from your side of the family?” Mr. Everglot questioned.
“I can’t recall,” Mrs. Everglot replied. “Emile, a seat for Lord Barkis.”
Barkis leaned down as Emile quickly grabbed a chair and positioned it for the man to sit. He brushed the knee of his pants, as Victor and Victoria looked on anxiously. Even the Equestrians studied the man very deeply, eying some sympathetic disapproval (A sense of a private scheming thought).
“Do carry on,” Barkis gestured.
“Let’s try it again, shall we, Master Van Dort?” Galswells asked Victor.
“Yes. Yes, sir,” Victor nodded. “Certainly…”
Victoria managed to light Victor’s candle while no one else was looking or even paying attention. An action that did not go unnoticed by Twilight Sparkle, who smiled a bit for the bride to be. Holding the candle in his right hand, Victor lifts his left.
“Right,” Galswells muttered.
“Right,” Victor nodded, realizing his mistake. “Oh, right!”
Victor quickly switched the candle to the other hand and lifted his right hand, as the Equestrians looked on nervously.
“With this… this…"
“Hand!” Galswells reminded.
“With this hand…” Victor stumbled, escorting Victoria forward. “I… with…”
*BAM!*
Victor’s knees accidentally hit the table. The Equestrians, minus Maud, cringed while they watched.
“THREE STEPS, THREE!” Galswells explodeded. “Can you not count? Do you not wish to be married, Master Van Dort?!”
“No! No…” Victor answered.
“You do not?” Victoria asked in surprise
“No! I meant, no, I do not-not wish to be married. That is, I want very much to…”
*WHACK!*
Pastor Galswells hits him with the crook right on his head.
“PAY ATTENTION!” Galswells called out.
“Ooh… I can’t bear to watch!” Pinkie moaned, covering her face.
“You and me both,” Spike nodded, biting his nails.
“Have you even remembered to bring the ring?” Galswells asked.
“The ring… yes!” Victor remembered. “Of course…”
Victor pulls the ring out from his pocket, Mr. Van Dort giving a thumbs up slightly. A bit of hope raised for the Equestrians hoping the boy will get it right. But unfortunately, Victor fumbled and dropped the ring. The moment it touched the ground, everyone, but Maud, gasped at this sacrilege.
“Dropping the ring!” The Pastor thundered.
“Oh no!” Twilight moaned.
“He dropped the ring!” Fluttershy added.
“This boy doesn’t want to be married!” The pastor spoke to the heavens.
Victoria looked on worried as Victor raced for the ring.
“I’ll get it!”
Victor scrambled on his hands and knees, desperately grasping for the ring as it rolled under Mauddeline’s chair. He reached, fumbling blindly under the hem of her long dress as she gasped and stared at him with barely contained outrage. Even Rarity gasped, as she fainted before Applejack and Rainbow Dash caught her. Victor scrambled to his feet, holding up the ring triumphantly.
“Got it!”
As he does this, Victor accidentally knocked over the other lit candle and Maudeline’s dress caught fire. Finnis quickly raced to his wife.
“Out of the way, you ninny!” He cried, shoving Victor aside.
Everyone desperately tried to put out the fire, Finnis Everglot stomped on the flame while Mrs. Van Dort fanned it.
“Oh, dear! Oh, my!” Mr. Van Dort cried. “Giddy on, there’s a woman on fire! Help! Emergency!”
“Oh, I hope it doesn’t stain,” Mrs. Van Dort replied.
“Stop fanning it, you fool!” Mrs. Everglot cried out.
Amidst all the chaos, Pastor Galswells sighed heavily as he slapped his book shut, shaking his head in utter shame. The Equestrians could only look on in horror as all the relatives tried to get the flames out, but to no avail.
“Get a bucket!” Mrs. Van Dort ordered her husband. ‘Get a bucket!”
“I’m on my way, dear,” Mr. Van Dort assured. “Yes. Oh, dear.”
As Mr. Van Dort searched for a bucket of water, a single hand with the cup of wine held out over the fire… and tipped down. The wine fell upon the flame, dousing it instantly to a simmering smoke, and left a slight stain on the hem. The Equestrians looked and saw Barkis, holding the cup, casually tossing it aside while Emil caught it with a tray in hand. The man merely rubbed his finger along the neckline of his suit, as Twilight and her friends studied him.
“Show off!” Rainbow muttered.
“Takes one to know one,” Applejack replied.
“ENOUGH!” Galswells called out, furiously. “This wedding cannot take place until he has properly prepared!”
The Pastor slowly turned toward the timid groom, as a bony finger pointed directly toward the door.
“Young man, learn… your… vows!”
Victor looked toward the furious Priest, then toward the Everglots, who merely stared at the boy. They glared at the young Van Dort with a look of disdain. Even his own parents looked on, the father a slight concerned but the mother… mortified that her own child would embarrass their family name. Humiliated, the boy backed away toward the door, fumbling for the door handle, until his hand clasps upon the knob, and he breaks out of the room. The Equestrians looked toward him with pity and sympathy.
“We better follow him,” Twilight informed the group. “To make sure he’s okay.”
They all nodded in unison and quickly made their way out of the Drawing Room while the door was still open. The only pony who didn’t leave was Maud, who had been staring out front the entire time… mostly toward the gentleman Barkis.
“Well, he’s quite the catch, isn’t he?” The man asked, with a hint of sarcasm.
All Victoria could do was look on as Victor rushed away in a panic. Maud glanced at the pair, with a face unreadable, barely blinking once.
“Hmm…” Maud uttered.
Then Maud slowly turned away and followed her sister and her friends at her own pace, departing from the Everglot Manor and made off to follow Victor Van Dort. Without a doubt, the rehearsal have proven to be a rather disastrous moment for both families.
If the rehearsal is bad, I can’t say I’m confident about the wedding…
Not now, sir…
Believe it or not faithful readers, but even weddings happen to have rehearsals. And like any rehearsal you've heard of, anything and 'everything' can go wrong before the big day. In which case... A LOT goes wrong.
The sad thing is that it seemed Victor and Victoria were starting to get to know each other, as if they had known each other far longer than perceived. But for whatever reason, the weighing stress of the wedding makes it very difficult for Victor to get through the wedding. So much so in fact, he sets his own mother in law's dress on fire just for trying to get the ring out. And it doesn't help that some mysterious stranger comes into the rehearsal to watch it all, with some of the Equestrians bearing some strong suspicions over the man's intentions.
It is a most humiliating moment for Victor and its not even his wedding day yet. And if we think things cannot possibly get worse for the man right now... just wait... just wait.
This scene was just a comedy of errors, and I love every moment of it. I’m talking about the movie itself, not the story.
Those characters are portrayed by......Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter ??
But....Despite looking very gothic with one of them being a literal reanimated corpse, they act....So......Normal.......
At least, compared to their more "famous" appearances in other movies that star the two of them together.
10747934
Yep, a comedy of errors where nearly everything goes wrong. And I should know about things that can go wrong, with years of dress rehearsals in musical theater. Course nothing has ever been set on fire (Fortunately), but all the times my cast mates kept forgetting all their lines for one reason or another and the patience pushed to the limit from all the directors I worked with... yeah, it gets nerve-wracking.
10747946
Well we haven't gotten to Helena's character just yet. But they do act rather 'normal' in an outlandish landscape, least in the realm of the Dead (Which we haven't gotten to yet either). But not to worry, still plenty more to come.
my reacation to lord Everglot’s smile
( go to 0:28)
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It's kind of like Robin in the original Teen Titans forcing himself to smile when he had to take Killer Moth's kid to prom on the Yacht or risk having an army of moths eating the entire city.
Nice chapter
Man, and I thought only a Toon Cat and Mouse could make anything wedding related a complete disaster...
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We did our best for this chapter. The rehearsal scene alone was a ton of work.
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Nah tons of weddings were ruined long before Tom and Jerry were involved. Slight correction, wedding 'rehearsals'.
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I was being facetious.....
and being a product placement sell out.
Poor Victor, and he and Victoria really seemed to get along
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They truly were starting to get along. But the stress of the wedding really got to Victor that time. Everything was happening so fast before his life was even going to begin. It's like for whatever reason something terrified him so much that he ended up embarrassing himself in front of the few who gathered just for the rehearsal.
Now that was a messed up rehearsal. But how could it have been ok with pressure on by family and all that
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Family, especially parents, always put so much high expectations on their children especially during weddings. There are so many countless reasons as to why parents act a certain way. But in this case between the families of this period, it's not really so much about their children loving each other its all about the social and financial climb for both families. The Van Dorts want to be treated as respected members of a society that barely knows they exist, while the Everglots will only put up with the marriage because the Van Dorts made enough money to support themselves through the fishing industry. And if this marriage doesn't work, it won't be enough that the Everglots lose 'all' of their money but they'll also lose the home and be out on the streets. Whereas for the Van Dorts, but mostly the mother, they will forever be unhappy knowing they will never get to sit with the rich and the aristocratic because they'll always just be fish merchants and nothing more.
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Yeah. I wonder who they mysterious person was too...
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That's why I hate arranged marriages between royalty or nobles. The families make it all about them and their legacy living on rather than what their own children think or want.
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That's the thing with that Barkis guy, we hardly really know much about him (Least not till later). He just happened to come into town one day, heard about a wedding involving one of the richest families in London, and naturally he came to observe and determine if there's a way he can sneak himself into the picture.
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He sounds like a jerk
Well I got to say that both Vics are absolute treasures around the ponies. I also like everyone's immediate reactions to the gloomy atmosphere of a Tim Burton movie and after already being to the Conjuring, that's saying a lot. Do also believe this is the first story we've had with the Danny Elfman soundtrack if I'm not mistaken.
Victor and the ponies (and Spike) meet the young man's fiancee: Victoria, who gives us all a surprise by having a most natural reaction to our protagonists, very similar to April Perron and SpongeBob SquarePants. But it seems that will be the only positive, since the Everglot are not at all like her daughter. And it seems that the wedding rehearsal is an example of Murphy's Law, it has gone wrong in every way possible (although within the comic, but it does not subtract humiliation).
We see here that Maud loves the piano, enough to make her smile; and she may have seen something in Barkins that the others may have missed. Although here it would be perfect for someone to say that things could get worse, because this has been the calm before the storm, because something is coming on them that is going to change everything.
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thumbs up/ aye
I just got back from work. It was an exhausting day today. I got the PM from Mr. E.
Very nice, I always did like that piano piece; the other musical pieces of the songs are amazing too.
I always loved watching this film when I was younger; when I was ever on a long drive to somewhere with my parents I would always hook up my portable DVD player to the car and watch it in the backseat just to kill a couple of hours.
Tim Burton films always spoke to my darker side of entertainment; much like The Addam's Family and other gothic type shows.
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Oh yes they are absolute treasures all right. Least the ponies made themselves two friends during their brief time in 'this' London.
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Victoria is definitely among the rare few who can see colorful, pastel-coated ponies and not feel the least bit freaked out. She is definitely one of the special ones. And yes, the piano music during this movie is very beautiful to listen to.
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Take all the time you need, Doc. Mr. Enigma and I are currently working on the next chapter as we speak.
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Tim Burton films may not always be positively received, this movie being an exception, but there is something about his atmosphere (Whether it's the gloomy darkside or the colorful environments) that audiences find slightly alluring.
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I love how Mauds just acting kinda like raven just in a more calm sense by how fascinated she is by the world and everything thats unfolding in this gloomy realm. Seems like shes intrigued by mr barkins and more goth than i though. (guess she has quite the eye for details to if gift of the maud pie is anything to go by. Nice to see Victoria calmy react to the ponies instead of freaking out (makes for a nice switchup) Despite the situation and everything it was cool seeing the couple have a moment together. Poor Victor tho getting so nervous over a big occasion thanks to his parents being pressuring jerks. Not a fan of them.
(sarcastically) Well, that went well.
(normally) That's what I like about the marriages in Equestria. They are meant for love and not....well, not what the parents have in mind.
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*cough Beetlejuice is one that's good* Cough cough
speaking of which, if and when we stop there, I wonder if the writers will incorporate some of the musical's songs and maybe some of it's demos too.
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Batman, too.
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And the Nightmare Before Christmas. Oh, and Edward Scissorhands. Maybe Pee-Wee's Big Adventure?
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I'm trying to image this story as some unique form of Live action/ 2d animation hybrid, but instead of live action, it's Claymation
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and so far, next to scooby and shaggy ( & the spongebob cast), they have been the most okay and level headed about 2d animated pastel horses and their dragon friend.
Behind the Scenes:
Originally, Albert Finney was supposed to play Grandpa Joe in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. But when Burton came into the production, he replaced him with David Kelly. So to make things up for dear old Al, Tim decided to give him the part of Victoria's father Finis Everglot, a role that was turned down by Sam Neill.
Well that was nice of Tim.
Speaking of Charlie, Burton wasn't the only one who had to work on these two films at the same time. While Johnny Depp was playing Willy Wonka in Charlie, he also had to voice Victor in Corpse Bride, which by the way marked his first animated role.
Very intriguing.
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A reminder on Albert he played Oliver Warbucks in 1982 Annie
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Interesting.
Another great chapter! But, not so great for the groom-to-be that he must be under the pressure and cause blundering mishaps. Although, the chemistry between Victor and Victoria was charming and cute despite the circumstances.
Great chapter!!! I can't wait for Phantom-Dragon's commentary tomorrow! I feel bad for Victor and Victoria
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Yes the chemistry between the two was rather cute. Even though the wedding rehearsal truly turned out to be a disaster.
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Eeyup! And this is the just the one creaking step into the real curtain of the creepy tale soon enough.
Meanwhile, back in the movie theaters
Scootaloo: "I don't know about you girls, but they kinda make Squidward look happy." (The CMCs, including Gabby and Babs Seed, all the foals and colts around their age, exchange random agreements)
---Equestria Girls---
Juniper Montage: "They kinda make Grumpy Cat look happy." (The Rainbooms, Shadowbolts, Wallflower Blush, and the Dazzlings exchange agreements)
---From both theaters---
Everyone (sans the Dazzlings): "Oh, Pinkie!"
Aria Blaze: "Gee, what a pinhead."
i.pinimg.com/originals/9f/1d/da/9f1dda10df1ba896fd432ff21169de72.jpg
Gilda: "UGGGGHHH!!! Godfather of Grover, please no!" (Covers her ears, while Gabby looks eager and excited)
---Equestria Girls---
Pinkie Pie: "Ooh! My pinkie senses are tingling! I feel a song coming on!" (Light bulb flashes on) "OOOH!! OOOH!! I got an idea! Hey! HEY!" (Breaks the fourth wall) "Mister Doctor Phantom-Dragon Dude! C-C-Can we a do a sing-along? Like make this a karaoke thing?"
Me: "I'm not a doctor Pinkie, but...knock yourself out, party girl..."
Applejack: "Uh...Pinkie? Who are ya talkin' to?"
Gilda: "Give me strength..."
---Equestria Girls---
At the same time, Human Pinkie Pie was singing along with her pony counterpart in the movie screen.
Adagio Dazzle: "Hmph. We can sing better."
Aria Blaze: (To Pinkie Pie) "You're too pitchy!"
Sonata Dusk: (Cheers loudly) "Knock 'em dead, girl!"
---Equestria Girls---
Aria Blaze: "Really? That's it?"
Lil'Cheese clapped his hooves happily at his mother's song, wanting an encore.
---Equestria Girls---
Sugarcoat: "Okay. So laughter makes you feel less scared sometimes...too bad it doesn't solve all of your problems with work stress, sickness, or disaster."
Sunset Shimmer: "And...there goes the mood."
Me: (Cringed, while keeping up with my Vincent Price impression) "I'm afraid young Victor's father was never quite the 'lady's man.'"
Big Mac: "Nope."
Me: (Shaking my head, still in my Vincent Price impression) "I've seen better and more genuine charming smiles on other goth types, such as one Inky Rose."
Inky Rose: (Slightly blushing) "Oh, you like my...smile?"
Moonlight Raven: "It really expresses your heart and soul."
Sunshine Smiles: "It makes me jealous to see you smile!"
In Discord's movie theater, in Ponyville, Grand Pear couldn't help but look down in shame, recalling just how strict he was towards his own daughter, and how he ultimately paid the price for it, by forcing something against her choosing.
The piano's spell also took affect in Discord's movie theaters, both in Ponyville and in the Human World. The audience were all finding themselves, swaying and bouncing to the sound of the piano play.
Sweetie Belle: "Wow, he plays almost as good as you, Erik!"
Erik: "...Hmmm, I've played better."
In the Ponyville theater, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo both exchanged uncertain looks with each other, as they looked away.
---Equestria Girls---
All of the girls in the theater exchanged mischievous grins towards the human Rainbow Dash and human Applejack in the seats, as they both blushed a shade of pink.
Rainbow Dash: "Stop looking at me."
There was an awkward silence in the theater.
Gallus: "Uh....what just happened?"
Smolder: "Where's the screaming and the emotional freak out?"
---Equestria Girls---
Wallflower Blush: "Uh...did she not noticed that they're dragon and pastel colored ponies?"
Sugarcoat: "Well clearly, they're the only dragon and pastel colored ponies in a gothic setting, so yeah, it's pretty obvious and out of the ordinary..."
Flurry Heart: "Auntie Twilight?!" (Giggles)
Princess Cadence: (Giggles) "Nice to see some things haven't changed."
---Equestria Girls---
Some of the girls in the theater turned to look at Sunset Shimmer, as if wanting to try out the same thing on the fiery unicorn-turned-girl.
Sunset Shimmer: (Points her wand in a threatening manner) "Don't even think about it."
Gabby: "And my favorite pen pal!"
Gilda: "He's your only pen pal."
Gabby: "Which is why he's extra special and more precious than any griffons can understand!"
Gilda: "Seriously, what do you even see in that guy?"
Gabby: "He and I have a lot in common! And he's fun to talk to, he tells fun jokes and shares lots of amazing stories. Plus, he's kinda cute..." (Blushes a shade of pink)
Gilda: "...Well, to each her own, I guess..."
Gallus: "Oh, you don't know half of it. Ever heard about that one time their friendship was so good, they made Professor Rarity stark raving jealous?" (Gilda looks intrigued)
Gabby: (To Gallus) "Uh, she doesn't need to hear about that."
Gilda: "No, actually..." (To Gallus) "You're talking about the marshmallow pony? What's she jealous about?"
Gallus: (Chuckles) "Well, get this. Professor Rarity was actually crazy jealous for Spike when she found out he and Gabby are friends, and that Spike's been going out with her more than he does with the Professor. Ha! And that says a lot, since I was under the impression she doesn't even care about his feelings, and wouldn't even miss him if he was gone from her life."
Sweetie Belle: "Uh, 'crazy jealous' might be an exaggeration."
Lyra Heartstrings: "Nope. That's actually what happened."
Bon Bon: (Chuckles) "Yeah. I remember seeing that mad look Rarity had on her face when she saw Spike and Gabby having milkshake together. And the cherry on topping was when Gabby fed Spike a cherry. I thought it was cute."
Gabby: "Hehehe...you saw that?"
Gilda: "So the marshmallow got jealous for the little dragon dude? And yet, she and 'Ghostface' over there got hitched." (Erik looks insulted and annoyed and Gilda's nickname for him) "Sounds to me she only wanted Spike back just to break his heart."
Sweetie Belle: "That's not how it went!"
Gabby: "Uh, can we just get back to watching what's on the movie screen? Please?"
Smolder: "Gee...what a killjoy..."
---Equestria Girls---
Pinkie Pie: "And love makes you feel like a 700 foot robot that's invading a city!"
Wallflower Blush: "A robot?"
Pinkie Pie: "Exactly! Hit it boys!"
Giant Robot Love – Daffy Duck
Adagio Dazzle: (Deadpan) "...That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard."
Aria Blaze: (Grins sadistically) "I don't know. I kinda like the part where the manager gets insanely jealous and stabs 'em with a trident..."
Sonata Dusk: "I LOVE IT!"
Sweetie Belle: "OH COME OOOOONNNN!!!!"
Doctor Whooves: "Three whole hours? But it's only been a minute and a second for us..."
Starlight Glimmer: (Still struggling to breathe in her costume) "Well, obviously, time flows differently between one world and the next."
Ember: (Holds up the Bloodstone Scepter) "DO NOT GLARE AT MY FRIEND THAT WAY! He's right!"
Smolder: "Yes he is!" ("Norberta(a)" blows a raspberry)
Garble: "Who is that guy?"
Even the audiences in both movie theater were all finding it hard to watch.
Gilda: (Yawns) "Wake me up when it's over? I'm gonna catch a few Zs."
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Discord: "HAHAHAH!!! Look at her face! Priceless!"
Discord: (Laughs out loud) "Oh, this is priceless! And they weren't even crashing an ACTUAL wedding!" (Rolls on floor laughing)
Discord: "Well. I think that went well."
The audience: "DISCORD!"
Discord: "What?"
---Equestria Girls---
Sugarcoat: "That was terrible."
Me: (Once again, in my Vincent Price impression) "Alas, tragedy has befallen upon poor young Victor, for he has fumbled with his wedding vows and has unintentionally shamed both his family names and sweet Victoria's. Consumed by fear, the stresses and strain, the peer pressures of his parents, and the struggle for the blessings of Victoria's parents, without a doubt, this is the nightmare of every gentlemen have gone through in holy matrimony. Caught unprepared, off-guard, unrehearsed, and surprised, Victor has entered a battlefield for which he has no strategy for victory."
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You always amaze my friend
10748909
Loved the commentary, great job as usual!
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Thank you... Sugarcoat.
Wonderful job with the commentary all the same, Ph.D.
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True Toonwriter 'did' officially make the commentaries for the series, while at the time of 'Scooby Doo' the way you handled it was merely for fun (Mostly a response to us for leaving Spike out... which we still kind of regret to this day). BUT... when we needed a commentator and Toonwriter was NOT making himself available (Regardless of circumstances we didn't entirely need to know), you were the one person we knew who could help when we needed it and thusly we turned to you. And it was our determination that since you were more reliable, we simply had to fill you from a temporary position to permanent and you'd always let us know when you were most available. Communication... very important in the business field, something I fear Toonwriter will NEVER survive (Especically given his unwanted temper).
BUT... the fans wanted Toonwriter back as Silver Shill's subordinate so bad, despite the fact he pretty much written his own suicide which is VERY INAPPROPRIATE IN OUR GROUP!!! But you're right... the fans may have had a say about Toonwriter's fate, but ultimately it's not MY or YOUR decision to bring him back... it's the boss. If 'he' says Toonwriter can come back, then it's official.
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Me: Dang...
Me: Double Dang!... when you put it like that, they make Lucy Loud from The Loud House look like William Shakespeare.
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Very funny, as I always love your spectator dialogue, especially since you include all the characters. Flurry must have remembered Scooby Doo when Victoria petted Twilight, and the same thing happened to me as Discord when I saw this scene.
Gosthface? The reference is very good, but it is logical that Erik did not take it well, since he is a very sinister horror icon. And Vincent Price, how great, present in both live action films ("The House of Wax") and animated films ("The great detective mouse"), I would like to see a drawing of you dressed as him.