Equestria Noir's First Season comes to a close with the wedding of Private Phelps Eye and Princess Twilight Sparkle.
The whole of Ponyville is eagerly awaiting the wedding of the year. After overcoming much hardship and fighting numerous battles Private and Twilight finally set to bring themselves together in holy matrimony. As the wedding comes ever closer both ponies begin to examine themselves. Will either of them have the courage to say the words that will bind them forever? I Do.
Equestria Noir Season 1 Epilogue “I Do” By Jacoboby1 Part I
Perspective: Private Eye
I have never seen one town so excited about a wedding. I swear the whole place is being decorated. New planter boxes have been placed around town, and various types of flowers have been planted adding a lot of color to an already fairly colorful town. Streamers and banners have been hung between buildings, and from lampposts. Originally the wedding was going to take place in Town Hall, but a very valid point, namely the sheer number of ponies attending, had been brought up. So it was moved to the Town Square, and a small dias, and an arbor had been constructed to be the backdrop of the actual exchange of vows.
As I walked down the streets of Ponyville everypony was waving as I passed by. All smiled, some of the mares giggled and stallions whooped and hollered about “Ropin’ her in” or something like that.
The ceremony itself was in a couple of days thanks to Celestia’s incredible ability to plan a wedding. I’m thinking that in her immortal life she’s had to have organized a few of these herself. In between fittings, Twilight’s consideration for napkins, and flower arranging I was always on the move. Right now was one of my rare breaks for the day.
I knew exactly who I wanted to spend it with.
I walked down the path and saw her at a small gazebo. She sat there, looking tired herself but smiling blissfully at all this. When she saw me her smile only grew. “Private, sorry I couldn’t get away, Rarity was having me try on fifty different dresses.”
“Knowing you,” I said, walking up to her. “You’d be content to just walk down in your princess or gala dress.”
“I can’t help it if I like simplicity,” she giggled, giving me a playful shove.
We both laughed and I took a seat beside her. She rested her head on my shoulder, wrapping one of her wings around me. “It’s all just so amazing, a year ago I would never have even thought of getting married. I was always so caught up in my studies and adventures with the elements I never found the time.”
“I’m just glad you were willing to put up with me for that long,” I said, nuzzling her affectionately.
She then looked at me. “Isn’t today supposed to be when our families arrive?”
“I’m thinking that’s them now,” I pointed as a carriage dropped down from the sky.
It was rather simple, though the pegasi pulling it had been borrowed from the Day Guard. It was still lavender, with a very familiar star pattern on the side, with shiny brass fittings. The door opened, and Night Light, and Twilight Velvet stepped out, pausing to thank the stallions who had pulled the carriage. We stepped off our seats to greet them and Velvet immediately ran to Twilight and hugged her tight. “My little baby! A princess and getting married! I’m so proud of you!” she cried, tears flowing down as Twilight struggled against her mother’s death grip.
“Uh, it’s okay mom,” Twilight gasped, trying very hard to breath.
“Velvet, I do believe you’re squishing your little filly,” Night Light spoke up.
“I can’t help it Night Light,” she said, hugging a little more gently. “I remember when she was a little filly who would sleep on books after she tired herself out. Oh she was simply adorable.”
“Mom!” Twilight cried, I tried not to laugh.
Velvet finally released her daughter reluctantly. She then went to lean against her husband and I couldn’t help but smile myself. It was good to see that the marriage was intact and filled wi-
I saw another pony leave the carriage. It was Cadence, smiling and skipping out of the carriage toward us. The minute her horn glowed Twilight and I shouted, “Don’t you dare!”
Cadence laughed. “Sorry, like I said, old habits die hard.”
“Some habits I wish just would die,” Twilight grumbled, rolling her eyes.
“At least we made it in time,” Shining Armor’s voice sounded as he came out behind his wife. He was wearing a filly carrier and in it was his daughter Skyla. Gosh, she’s getting bigger every time I see her.
Skyla saw me and Twilight and smiled happily, the filly reached her little forelegs. “Twilie! Privy!”
“Oh my gosh, she can talk now!” Twilight squealed, running over to her niece.
“Not sentences,” Shining explained. “She started speaking about a week ago, and despite what Cadence may say, her first word was daddy.”
“Just hold onto your illusion dear,” Cadence said, standing beside her husband.
Skyla reached for us and Twilight pulled her out of the carrier. She held the little filly and said, “It’s good to see you again my little niece.”
Skyla giggled and looked over at me “Privy!”
“Yeah it’s me,” I chuckled, going to nuzzle the filly. She hugged my muzzle when I got close and laughed a little. “Soon you’ll be calling me uncle Private.”
“Privy!” she giggled, looking at me with her big blue eyes.
“Seems she’s found a nickname for you,” Twilight said, smiling at me.
Velvet smiled and picked up Skyla from her daughter. Skyla smiled wide and squealed, “Gramma!”
“She’s been trying to learn that word her whole trip here,” Night Light explained, nuzzling his granddaughter.
“Anyways, I should get you guys to your hotel rooms,” I said. “Maybe I’ll even give you a tour.”
“That would be great Private,” Cadence said, taking back her daughter and putting her in the carrier.
“Velvet and I are going to just relax a little first,” Night Light said, putting a hoof around his wife. “We’ve had a long trip and just want to soak everything in.”
“Okay,” Twilight said, nuzzling each parent in turn. “We’ll meet up at the hotel later, I still got wedding plans to get to.” “Always so organized,” Velvet smiled. “Even as a filly you would sort your diapers before I changed you.”
“MOM!!!” Twilight groaned, flushing in embarrassment.
We all laughed before I led the royal couple away. I smiled a little, so these are my in laws. I think I won’t have to worry much about them. Except for the fact that Shining could potentially whoop my flank magically if I screwed up with Twilight. I only hope I can keep a cool head until the wedding.
Ever since father fell off the radar in recent days work had been long and tiring. As the head of the company now it fell to me to keep it from collapsing. Luckily the new position allowed for more vacation hours should I need them. I was going to put every minute to good use, especially now that Preventus told me the news he was marrying his beloved.
As I walked down the path I couldn’t help but feel nostalgic about all of this. Granted, my wedding with Sparrow was a quiet affair, father didn’t even attend out of sheer spite. But now, my son was getting married and it was a spectacle. The entire town seemed to want to make this wedding work. Goes to show you just how much these small town ponies care about one another.
I passed by a gazebo and saw a unicorn couple sitting in it. The stallion was around my age, maybe a little younger, with a blue coat and a well kept blue mane. The mare had to be the same age with a greyish coat and a purple and white mane. They leaned against each other, smiling in that special way you do when you’re with the one you love. “To think, both of our babies would become so grand,” the mare smiled.
“I always knew Twilight was a princess, now the whole world knows,” the stallion said. That made me stop. “Shining Armor is a father of his own,” the mare mused. “I thought he’d never get the courage to ask Cadence. A lovely daughter in law she made.”
They had to be...
“Excuse me,” I said, walking up.
“Oh, I’m sorry,” the stallion apologized. suddenly out of his trance “Were we disturbing you, sir?”
“No, forgive me for eavesdropping,” I started, putting a hoof to my chest in apology. “I just couldn’t help but overhear, you are the parents of Twilight Sparkle?”
They looked at each other, smiled and the mare said, “That would be us, the proud parents of a Princess of Equestria.”
“Who would you be sir?” The stallion asked.
I gave a smile and said, “I am Irenius Eye, Preventus Eye is my son and Twilight Sparkle my future daughter in law.” They both gave a look of shock. I’m guessing they were taking into account the suit I wore for the occasion. I considered not bringing it so as not to draw too much attention, but my secretary insisted I wear it to represent the company. They were obviously caught off guard by this sudden reveal.
The stallion was the first one to speak, “I am Night Light, this is my wife Velvet.” He gestured to his wife. “Private never told us that he came from such a, well known family.”
I smiled. “That’s not a surprise, Preventus was never one to flaunt the fact that he came from a privileged childhood.”
“I am glad to finally meet the stallion who raised a good son for our filly,” Velvet smiled, but then her blue eyes blinked. “But, I have to ask, where is Private’s mother?”
My expression turned a little sorrowful. Velvet put a hoof on her mouth as she realized she may have asked too personal a question. Finally I had the courage to say, “She died, giving birth to my youngest.”
“Oh, forgive me for asking,” Velvet apologized. “I had no idea.”
I held up a hoof. “It is alright, I’m beyond the point where I break down over her death. Although it still weighs heavily on my heart.”
“Again we apologize,” Night Light said. “Private never talked much about his past with us.”
“Your daughter, from what I heard, was among the few he completely confided in. You raised a good mare,” I complimented.
“Why thank you Irenius,” Velvet smiled. “What do you say to joining me and Night Light for a self guided tour of this lovely town? I’m sure we have plenty of stories to tell about Twilight.”
“Wait till I tell you about the time Preventus tried to create a fort out of his mother’s dresses,” I laughed.
I held the cushion in my lap, the practice ring on top of it. I gently rolled forward as I tried to balance the ring just like Private told me to. I was in the library trying to practice for the role that Private had given me. I was to be his ring bearer along with Spike being Twilight’s. Well, it’s more accurate to say I had given myself the job. Private tried to talk me out of it but that was about as effective as Granny Smith’s hearing.
I rolled gently forward, trying to balance it on my lap before the stupid cushion fell again. “Darn it,” I groaned, picking it back up. “I’ve been working on this thing for hours, so far nothing. Maybe I need a break, after all I still got a couple of days to get it right.”
I laid the cushion down on a table, taking the practice ring and putting it in my pocket. I then rolled to the door and opened it to the outside. There were a bunch of ponies, out there, all helping with the preparations. Lyra and Octavia were off by the Gazebo practicing their part for the wedding march, Vinyl Scratch was looking through a list, making faces. I guess Private and Twilight gave her their music preferences.
As I rolled down the street I caught sight of the flower trio arranging the flowers around the town. I’ve never seen the town so pretty before. Everypony really wanted to make this wedding work. I can’t wait until this gets started! Private gets to be with Twilight!
I stopped as I came to the street venders. Most of them were out to sell to the guests that came from out of town. I’ve noticed a lot of upper crust ponies walking the stands, maybe they're hoping for a souvenir?
There’s even what looks like an Alicorn, here. She’s really pretty, with a pink coat, and a tri-colored mane and tail. I’ve never seen purple, blond, and pink in a mane before. That’s kind of neat. And on her back is a cute little filly. She doesn't look that much older than Private, maybe a couple of years. Then again, she could be thousands of years old and you’d never be able to tell thanks to her being an Alicorn.
The filly took notice of me, she pointed and said, “Mamma!”
“What is it, now, Skyla?” the pink alicorn asked, sounding amused, then turned to where her filly was pointing. “Oh. Hello.”
“Sorry,” I said, rolling up to them. “I guess she’s never seen a guy in a wheelchair before huh?” I then looked at the filly. “Hi there, what’s your name?”
“Skyla!” she cried happily.
“That’s a pretty name,” I said, smiling at her.
Her mom smiled, “I’m guessing you're a local here?”
“Well, technically I’m from Manehatten,” I explained. “But, after Private brought me here this place has become my home.”
“Wait,” the pink alicorn said, puzzled looking. “You know Private?”
“I think I should,” I smiled. “He’s my bro after all.”
“My goodness,” she said, putting a hoof to her mouth and smiling down at me. “I’m Princess Mi’amore Cadenza, Private is to be my brother in law.”
“Now I know where I’ve seen you before!” I exclaimed in recognition. “You’re the princess from the wedding last year, the one before Twilight met Private.”
“It certainly was eventful,” she mused.
“So Princess Mi...mi amo...mi amogaple...” I tried hard to say her name.
“Just call me Cadence. I think future brothers in law have that privilege,” Cadence grinned.
“Your husband saved my class during the attack, he was so awesome!” I told her. “I can’t believe you and him are going to be my in laws! That’s so cool!”
“I’ll tell Shining he has a fan,” Cadence chuckled. “Looks like it’s going to be huge, doesn't it?”
“The wedding? Yeah by the looks of it,” I nodded. “I can’t wait, I got Private to make me ringbearer”
“Ring wing!” Skyla cried, smiling.
“That’s a pretty important job,” Cadence said. “I’m glad Private trusts his little brother so much.”
Skyla then started reaching for me, babbling a little.
Cadence smiled and picked the filly out of her carrier. “It seems she wants to get to know her future uncle. Well, her other future uncle.”
Skyla reached her hooves excitedly as she was placed on my lap. She looked up at me with the biggest blue eyes I’ve ever seen. She smiled wide and tapped herself. “Skyllie!”
I smiled back. “I’m Tailspin, nice to meet you.”
“Tailspie!” she said, mispronouncing my name but hugged me so cutely I couldn’t hold it against her.
“She really likes you Tailspin,” Cadence said, looking at the scene. “Then again, I don’t think there’s anypony on earth Skyla doesn't adore.”
“Hey Skyla, check this out!” I rolled into a wheelie on my wheelchair, Skyla laughed happily as we rode along. Cadence was smiling as well.
Skyla smiled as she sat on my lap once it was over. “Unca roll! Unca roll!”
“I can see you’re now on her favorite ponies list.” Cadence said with a small laugh.
I smiled myself then I heard the bell toll. “Aw man, I’m supposed to be at Rarity’s in a few minutes.”
“Oh? Oh, probably for your tux for the wedding, right?” the princess asked.
“Yeah, Rarity said I had to get it before she’s swamped by everything else.” I explained.
“Well it’s been awhile since I saw Rarity,” Cadence said, taking back Skyla into her carrier. “Why don’t we both go? I need to ask her about some business with the Empire.”
The journey to the boutique was a pleasant one. The flowers made the whole town smell nice, and all the decorations made everything just seem so festive. We soon reached Rarity’s fantastically styled building. No wonder it’s called the Carousel Boutique.
When we opened the door I saw Sweetie Belle and Applebloom clad in their flower girl dresses. They were both standing in front of a curtained area. But before I could ask what was going on Rarity came strolling in, despite working nearly around the clock she still maintained her happy tone. “Welcome to Carousel-” She stopped when she saw us, “Why your highness, it is a pleasure to see you again.”
“A pleasure as always Rarity,” Cadence smiled wide. “I hope I’m not keeping you from anything.”
“Do not worry your head darling,” Rarity dismissed it with a hoof, “Between myself and my apprentice Cross we have everything under control.”
“Great,” I piped up. “Do you have my tux ready yet?”
“Just give me a minute darling, and I’ll bring it right out.” She then happily trotted away, back to her work.
“Come on Scootaloo!” Applebloom cried from the curtained area “Come on out!”
“No way!” I heard Scootaloo’s angelic voice cry from the other side. “You guys’ll laugh at me!”
I rolled over to the girls and started, “Hey wha-” Suddenly Sweetie Belle shoved a hoof in my mouth, silencing me. “We promise we won’t laugh Scootaloo!” Sweetie said, smiling wide.
“Oh, okay,” Scootaloo’s voice slowly said, the curtain drew and my jaw dropped.
I could almost hear a choir. She looked gorgeous. The dress, itself, was fairly simple, with a minimum of decoration, violet in color, with a minimal lace collar in white, and a simple, wine-colored sash. The way she looked in it, though... It was amazing!
Sweetie Belle removed her hoof and giggled, “So, whaddya think Tailspin?”
Scootaloo saw it was me standing outside, her face slowly turned from orange to red. “Uh, hi T-tailspin.”
“H-hey Scootaloo,” I said nervously “You look amazing.”
“I, I uh, gotta run!!!” She zoomed out of the boutique, her face red as an apple. The fillies giggled as she left, I was left with the image in my mind of Scootaloo in that dress.
Private thinks Twilight is the prettiest mare in the world? Well, I think I found a better contender thank you.
It would seem that young love is in the air. Mutual affection between Scootaloo, and Tailspin. Interesting. I should not meddle, but I can still...
“Rarity?” I asked. “What do you know about the little romance that’s going on between Tailspin and Scootaloo?”
Rarity smiled, “My dear apprentice Cross is Tailspin’s cousin, Tailspin and Scootaloo are very close from what I heard. Tailspin was attracted to her from the moment he saw her. Although I can hardly imagine why he would choose her. The filly has rather boorish manners that I swear Rainbow Dash encourages in her. But, love is love and the two have bonded over this year. They even did a little dance together last hearts and hooves day.”
Oh...my...gosh...
My eyes glowed. “That is so CUTE!” I cheered happily. “Oh my gosh the love was just so pure and innocent!”
Rarity giggled, “Oh it is simply precious is it not?”
Must...resist...urge...to...meddle...
Skyla tilted her head as I fought with every fiber of my being not to dive into this very cute relationship. I watched as a unicorn colt stepped in, levitating a tuxedo with his magic. His coat was green and his black mane messy, his green eyes were covered by black rimmed glasses. He looked at us. “Um, did I miss anything?”
“Oh, just the ongoing romance of your cousin,” Rarity said. “Thank you for finishing that tuxedo Cross, that last button was about as stubborn as Applejack.”
“Hey!” Applebloom cried.
“No offense darling,” Rarity smiled. She trotted over to Tailspin and said, “Now, if you need any help at all getting this on you just yell okay?”
“It’s okay Miss Rarity,” Tailspin said, taking the suit. “I’m sure I can figure it out if you and Cross sowed it. You guys always try to make your outfits easy to get into.”
“Always trying to think of the customer,” Cross said, a smile on his face. It seems he really is Rarity’s apprentice. “Ah gotta get goin actually,” Applebloom said, slipping out of her flower girl outfit. “Applejack wants me tah help with the reception refreshments. Hopefully ah won’t burn the treats this time.”
“I’ll see you later Applebloom,” Sweetie called as the yellow filly left. “We still gotta try and help Dinky with her cutie mark.”
“Dun think Ah fergot,” Applebloom said, smiling back before leaving.
Tailspin rolled into the changing area and then I saw Sweetie walk over to Cross. She smiled at him, “It’s really nice for you to be helping my sister out Cross.”
Rarity was purposefully occupying herself with some fabrics. I slowly smirked as I saw a line of red come to Cross’ face. “Well, yeah, I am her apprentice after all.”
Sweetie’s lime green eyes looked on him. “You work so hard, most colts my age don’t wanna have anything to do with this stuff. But, I’m glad you help my sister. Also, I’m glad to just have you around.”
Must...resist...urge....
“Lov lov!!!” Skyla suddenly cried, I looked over at her and my eyes grew wide in shock, Skyla’s horn was glowing! She was using magic!
A tiny little heart came from Skyla’s horn and flew itself first into Sweetie, and then into Cross. The two looked into each other’s eyes, Cross smiled, “Did I ever tell you how pretty you were?”
Sweetie blushed, “Aww, everypony thinks my sister is the pretty one.” She shuffled her hooves nervously, well this is an interesting turn.
“I don’t,” Cross said, and then raised a hoof to her cheek, lifting her face so their eyes met. “I think you’re the cutest, prettiest, and sweetest filly alive. Plus, I like your voice.”
Sweetie smiled cutely and hummed a tune, Cross’ eyes closed as he listened to it. I have to admit, the filly had quite the talent for singing. Cross seems to think so as well.
The pair blinked as the spell wore off. They looked at each other, turned very red and zoomed away from each other. Cross looked at Sweetie apologetically. “I’m sorry, I don’t know what came over me!”
I looked over at Skyla who was clapping her hooves. “Your first love spell, oh sweetie I’m so proud of you.” I nuzzled her gently as the two foals apologized nervously to one another.
Tailspin then came out dressed in his suit. Sweetie and Cross disappeared into separate rooms. The little ones were probably embarrassed about being part of Skyla’s love spell test. I smiled at Tailspin. “Well, don’t you look like you could sweep Scootaloo off her hooves?”
Tailspin blushed and said, “I’m just gonna carry a ring to my brother, no big deal.”
“Oh don’t act so humble darling,” Rarity said, trotting over. “Why I’m sure you’ll do very well tonight.”
“Thanks Miss Rarity,” Tailspin said, and Rarity’s magic helped him out of the tuxedo. “I gotta get back to practicing.”
“Maybe I can help,” I said, walking over to Tailspin. “I did coach Spike during my own wedding.”
This isn’t an ulterior motive to also coach him about Scootaloo at all. I swear!
“Sure, let’s get going, or rolling in my case,” Tailspin joked, rolling out of the building.
He can really just joke about his handicap like that? I don’t know whether to feel happy he doesn't let it bother him, or sad that he has to cope with it.
Oh well, Tailspin’s a strong colt by the looks of him. I’m sure he’s just taking it like any pony can, one spin of the wheels at a time.
I looked on at the gazebo where in a couple of days I would be wed to Twilight. I sat there on the grass as I thought about this. Maybe I rushed into this, maybe I was so happy to be alive that I never thought to think about if I was ready. On top of all that, Twilight is a princess now. By marriage I’d be royalty, could I really handle all the responsibility it entails? Would she want to keep married to me with all the more experienced Princes around her?
And who for the love of Celestia is tapping me on my shou-
I turned around and looked wide eyed at a blue unicorn mare standing behind me. Her long midnight blue mane was cascading down her shoulders. Her musical note cutie mark graced her flank proudly. Her smile grew as her blue eyes betrayed her gladness to see me. “Well, it’s been awhile hasn’t it Private?”
“Moongale!” I yelled, hugging my friend and she hugged me in return. “What are you doing here? I thought you were on tour.”
“I was,” she replied, letting me go. “But then I heard my old friend was getting married and I figured my talents would be put to better use.”
“How’s Arson?” I asked.
“Doing very well,” she answered, “In fact, his scars have almost completely healed and he’s starting to make more public appearances as my composer.”
“That’s great,” I smirked and jabbed her chest playfully. “And how’s the romance?”
She blushed and said, “It’s going very well, you couldn’t resist asking that could you?”
“Nope,” I said with a shake of my head.
“I remember when you were in second grade and you tried to hook up our teacher with the gym teacher,” Moongale laughed. “You never could look away from a romance.”
“Hey, they were made for each other,” I retorted.
“Yes and they’ve been happily married for years now,” Moongale laughed a little. “So, how goes the wedding preparations?”
I looked down; Moongale’s blue eyes saw me. We knew each other well enough to know what the other is thinking. “Nervous are you?”
“It’s just,” I sighed. “I’m wondering if maybe I rushed into this.”
Moongale walked to me, and put a hoof on my shoulder. “Private, everypony feels like this as the date gets closer.” She then said, “I knew back in Trottingham that you and Twilight loved each other dearly. Just don’t forget that.”
“Thanks Moongale,” I said, looking at her. “I’m sure I’ll sort it out sooner or later.”
“So, are you in need of a wedding singer?” she asked, smiling.
“So the pep talk was a motive so you could sneak your way into the position?” I said, in mock hurt.
She just flipped my hat down. “I just want to celebrate my friend getting married. This is the best way I can help.”
I pulled my hat up and told her, “Sure, talk to Celestia, she’s down at the gazebo overseeing everything. I’m sure she can fit you in somehow.”
Moongale gulped, “Okay, I’m just going to walk up to the most powerful mare in Equestria and ask if I can sing. Alright, no pressure.”
“Come on,” I rolled my eyes. “Everypony is a fan of you after your album came out. She’s friendly and kind, she’ll understand. Just don’t bring up cake.”
Moongale nodded and trotted towards the gazebo.
“Friend of yours Private?” I looked over and saw Shining Armor coming to sit beside me.
“Yeah, she came to volunteer as a wedding singer,” I explained. “Where are Twilight and the others?”
“Enjoying the spa when I left them,” Shining explained. “Mom and Twilie got kind of roped by the twins there into getting a free treatment. I took that as my cue to let them enjoy themselves.”
“I’m glad Velvet is enjoying what Ponyville has to offer,” I said, looking down at the gazebo.
Shining Armor nudged me with his leg. “Pre wedding jitters?”
“How di-” I then nodded. “Right, you’re married.”
“And I went through the same thing,” Shining smiled. “Truth be told, I was a nervous wreck before the wedding and almost didn’t go out.”
This was weird; I’ve always seen Shining Armor as a confident soldier. But, I’m guessing even he crumbles when Cadence becomes involved.
“How did you get over it?” I asked.
“I didn’t really, I just changed the way I thought about it,” Shining explained. “I wasn’t marrying a princess, I wasn’t marrying an alicorn, I was just marrying the greatest friend I’ve ever made.” He then looked at me. “You just think the same about Twilie and you’ll be fine.”
I smiled at him and said, “Thanks Shining, I needed that.”
He closed his blue eyes, “That being said...” He suddenly got very close and glared at me. I began sweating as his blue eyes bore into my very soul. “If you even think about cheating on my little sister, I will personally hunt you down, beat the living crap out of you, break all four of your legs and then shove my spear right up yo-”
“Shining! Private!”
We both looked over and saw Twilight and Cadence walking towards us. Shining smiled and pulled me into a noogie. “Aww hey girls, don’t mind us.”
Twilight narrowed her eyes. “You weren’t threatening my fiancé were you?”
“Threaten? Naw,” Shining smiled innocently. “Just having a little guy talk here with my future brother here!” He ruffled my brown mane under my fedora.
“Hey, cut it out!” I said, squirming out of his grip.
Cadence laughed, and then looked at her husband. “I dropped Skyla off with her grandparents. We’re all going to meet up at the hotel.”
“How was the spa Twilie?” Shining asked as I righted myself.
“Oh it was great.” She flapped her wings. “These have never felt better.”
“You’ll look great for the wedding,” I said, smiling at her.
“Hey, watch it when I’m around man,” Shining retorted.
“You’re not the one marrying her Shining!” I argued.
“Well, even still I’m obligated to look out for her.”
“There’s looking out for and then there’s obess-”
Cadence was giggling.
“What?” Shining and I asked at the same time.
“Sorry, I can’t help it, you two would make just the weirdest brothers.”
Twilight started laughing herself. Shining and I looked at each other and started laughing ourselves. Maybe, it won’t be so bad thanks to having a family like this. Twilight and I smiled at one another.
I wasn’t marrying Princess Twilight Sparkle. I was marrying the greatest friend I’ve ever made, and getting into her rather fun family.
I walked into Tia’s hotel room after I managed to get away from palace duties. Since Lunard’s defeat Tia had been pouring herself into her work on her student’s wedding. Luna and I talked and we figured now should be time for an, as the modern ponies call it, intervention.
I saw Tia at a desk, her golden magic levitating and signing several papers at once. Luna’s moon was outside the window, at nearly it’s highest point. As if it wanted to drive home the point that my love was working herself hard.
“Tia?” I called, stepping near her.
“Oh? Voidera my love it’s good to see you.” She then levitated over some papers my way. “Be a dear and finalize these forms would you?”
“Tia,” I said, as I set the papers aside and she kept working. I noticed that she was working at a very fast pace. “When was the last time you slept?”
“Slept?” She stopped temporarily. “Oh, I suppose it was...” She looked at me guiltily. “Two days ago...”
I frowned and my horn glowed blood red, all of the forms and quills were teleported into a stack on my hoof. I set them aside and said, “Tia, I know what this is.”
“Voidera,” she groaned, walking over to me. “I do love you, but I must return to wedding preparations. I still have a band to organize, Twilight’s bouquet to order and so-”
“Tia, I know why you’re working so hard,” I said, my red eyes not giving any sway.
She stopped at that.
“You did this before, when Solara died you poured yourself into your duties as a princess. You barely slept for a week. I know you do care for your student, but you can’t use her wedding to cope.”
She, slowly bowed her head. “I guess it is a terrible habit of mine. I just...” a tear fell down her eye. “I just, for the first time in fifteen hundred years...father...told me he...was proud of me...”
“Shh...” I walked to Tia and wrapped my dragon like wings around her. Her head went into my shoulder, my dark coat catching her tears. I fought tears myself as I wrapped my hooves around my love gently.
“I know it’s wrong for me to have an excuse like this,” she sobbed, her own hooves clinging to me. “I just, I could’ve lost my father and not have heard him say that. My father...and little sister...both of them suffered so much....and I could do nothing....I had to use my student and her love against him...”
“Tia,” I soothed, gently rocking her. “Just, remove the mask that you’ve worn for so long. Just let it all out. None can see us in here I can assure you.”
With that, Celestia cried fully into me. I held her as gently and firmly as I could. There were only three times I’ve seen Celestia break down like this. The first was when her mother died, the second was when Luna was thought dead after Discord took her, and the third was when Lunard fell. Oh Tia, how much grief have you kept in you since then?
She looked up at me and said, “Voidera, thank you, I needed to remove the mask for a while.”
I pulled her into a tender kiss on the lips. She returned it longingly, pouring her heart and soul into it. I was happy to receive it, Tia needed this, she needed me here with her. I slowly stopped kissing her and she asked, “What’s wrong?”
“I can’t help but feel guilty myself,” I sighed. “I should’ve been here with you. There’s so much guilt and grief within you that I wasn’t there to alleviate. It's my own fault, I followed Lunard to try and seal the miasma. I got myself locked away and you could only watch as I said goodbye.”
She smiled and wiped her eyes with a free hoof. “Had you not have tricked Discord into sealing you and Lunard, the miasma would’ve covered the whole world.” She then laid a kiss on me. “Voidera...”
“Yes Tia?” I asked, and watched her leave my embrace.
Her golden magic unlocked her regala, and she stepped out of her shoes and set them all on the desk. She removed her crown and set it gently in a chest. “Voidera, tonight I’m not Princess Celestia, I’m not a ruler of Equestria or anything like that.” She turned around, all of her royal trappings gone, revealing her as I’ve known her years ago.
Granted her mane was pink back then but times change.
“Then who are you?” I asked, stepping out of my own white shoes and setting them aside.
“Just, Tia,” she smiled, walking towards me and taking my hoof in hers. “A mare, who’s just happy to have her love here with her.”
I smiled and said, “Let it be...like our first time in the sanctuary...”
“Without Izanami here to catch us,” she added and we both laughed...
“Tia, no matter what I love you,” I said, as she led me towards the bed.
“I love you too Voidera,” she said, and then climbed onto the bed. “Let it be, a night for us...”
I then stared into her beautiful violet eyes...and gave into my love for her....
“Guys, I know you’re my friends and all,” I said as I walked forward, I felt Applejack and Rainbow pulling on my foreleg. “But is the blindfold really necessary?”
I was rather rudely pulled away from trying to decide which table cloth would go with which napkin when they pulled me out. Next thing I knew I was blindfolded, and led out into the night away from where I was working at town hall.
“It’s tradition, Sugarcube,” AJ’s voice sounded.
“Yeah, besides you’ve been doing enough work and it’s your last night before you and Private tie the knot,” Rainbow added.
That’s right. Tomorrow...I’m marrying Private!
Oh my gosh in all the excitement I can’t believe that totally slipped my mind! All of this was happening so fast I never really stopped to think about it!
Private and me... the very thought brought a nervous but happy smile on my face. I heard Rainbow groan, “We’d better hurry, before she starts imagining Private sweeping her off her hooves on some boat.” She paused before saying, “Not that I read those kind of books or anything!”
“Whatever you say, Sugarcube,” AJ responded, and then I heard a door opening. I was not so gently shoved inside by them and I felt the blindfold being removed. My eyes opened to see the library had been transformed not unlike it did when I first arrived. The place was filled with balloons, streamers and other decorations. The tables which normally housed books now housed several Sugarcube Corner treats.
I saw guests were everywhere, cheering my entrance. Rarity and Fluttershy walked towards me.
I smiled wide, “Girls, what’s all this?”
“Why darling, it’s your bachelorette party,” Rarity explained, smiling equally as wide. “After all, it is your last night before the big day tomorrow.”
“Your last night of freedom as they say,” Rainbow joked as she slapped me on the back with a hoof.
Pinkie suddenly appeared from the ceiling, “So we decided to make you a super funnerfic party just for you!”
“Guys, thanks,” I said, smiling genuinely. “I really do have the best friends in the world.”
“Yeah less talk,” Pinkie said, pulling out her party canon, “MORE PARTY!” She fired the device that I still have yet to figure out. Confetti and balloons fired from the cannon. Everypony in the room cheered and the party began. Vinyl was doing her thing and providing some very catchy music.
I smiled again, I can’t believe what these guys did for me. I really have the best friends ever.
“Guys, leggo!” I cried as I was literally being carried by what sounded like Raiden and Big Mac. They pulled me away from what I was doing for the wedding and slapped a blindfold on me. Next thing I know I’m being carried like some sort of package on what I could only surmise were their backs. I was not happy as you could imagine.
Raiden’s voice spoke first, “Come on Private, it’s your last night of total freedom, you deserve a party to celebrate right, Big Mac?”
“Eeyup,” was Big Mac’s response.
“Even still, you can at least tell me where we are going,” I said, crossing my forelegs in contempt over the situation.
“Just wait a bit,” Raiden said. “Ah, here we are.”
I heard a door open and was rather ceremoniously dumped inside the building. I used my magic to untie the blindfold and loo-
SURPRISE!!!
I blinked open my eyes and saw that Potso, my best man, had converted his pizzeria into a full on bar. Pretty much all of my guy friends in town were there, including Spike who was waving at me, Applesnack who was brooding over a drink, and Swarm who was in his typical unicorn form. I even saw Shining Armor eating, wait was that a hay dog?
Raiden slid a leg over my shoulders. “Tonight, we celebrate you leaving our circle of bachelors and venturing forth into the jungle that is holy matrimony!”
Everypony else cheered and Potso called, “The finest wines from Bitallia have been opened for such an occasion!” He set some bottles on the table.
“Raiden, are we really going to make it that kind of party?” I asked.
Raiden rolled his eyes. “Come on dude, for once in your miserable life learn to cut loose and act totally crazy!”
“Alright, I’ll try to cut loose,” I sighed.
“PARTY TIME!!!” Raiden cried, flying over and grabbing his electric guitar before going nuts on it.
Everypony cheered as I took a wine glass from the bar. The guys around me were engaged in loud raucous behavior. I just smiled as Swarm transformed into Raiden and performed an air guitar motion.
I sat in a chair as I finished opening a present from Derpy. I smiled wide, “Thanks Derpy, I always loved your muffins.”
She smiled sweetly and said, “Anything for you guys, but uh, you might wanna hide them in case I decide to let my tummy take over.”
“Good plan,” I said, closing the box and putting it in the pile beside me. Everypony here had been giving me gifts left and right. I’m guessing it’s a tradition here in Ponyville. I was a little hesitant to accept so many but then I was reminded that this was my party and I should enjoy what everypony worked so hard to give.
Derpy smiled and trotted back over to the crowd. So far I’d received the muffins, some things for Owlicious from Fluttershy, some amazing pies from Applejack, also some crystal berries from Cadence (I made a reminder to myself to hide them from Private, I think he’s addicted to them). Rainbow came up with a rather small package and said, “One awesome present from me.”
I smiled and began unwrapping it with my magic. “Thanks Rainbow, you got me-” I stopped when I saw what it was. “An autographed picture of yourself?”
“Hey just think, in a couple years when I’m a Wonderbolt it’ll be worth a fortune,” she said proudly.
I simply rolled my eyes and smiled. “I’ll keep that in mind.”
Rarity then came up with another wrapped package. I gave her a look. “Rarity, you already spent nearly a week on my wedding dress, you didn’t need to get me anything.”
“Not to worry darling,” Rarity smiled. “I did not make this, I simply bought it for you from a lovely store in Canterlot.”
“I’m not going to change your mind am I?” I asked with a laugh.
“No darling, not at all.” She levitated her present over to me.
I read the little tag. “Do not open until the honeymoon?”
“Yes darling, suffice to say it’ll all make sense then,” Rarity said, a rather mischievous smirk gracing her face.
I could use a transparency spell to see what’s inside, but I didn’t want to ruin whatever surprise Rarity had in store. It felt like it would be a clothing box of some sort though.
“Thanks Rarity, I’ll put it with the other stuff,” I said, putting the box with my other presents.
“Use it well darling, I had it picked out especially for you and Private,” Rarity said cryptically before rejoining the party.
For me and Private?
Before I could think more of that, the door opened and Princess Celestia came in. Everypony in the room bowed as she entered, I was bout to as well before my wings reminded me that I was technically the same rank as her.
She smiled and lifted her hoof for everypony to rise, Luna followed behind her and my mentor said, “Do not stop your celebration for us, my sister and I wanted to join as well.”
“Well, the more the merrier I always say!” Pinkie cheered, hopping happily around the princesses. That earned a laugh from both of them.
Luna smiled, “I shall also endeavor to make sure the cake does not disappear when my sister get’s a hold of it.”
“Luna!” Celestia yelled, her flush showing her embarrassment.
I couldn’t help but smile, here was a mare I’ve admired for so long being teased like anypony else. I smiled and walked to them. “Come on then, if anypony deserves a party to relax at it’s you two.”
Celestia smiled and said, “Very well, let it begin!”
Everypony cheered and the party continued in full swing.
After Raiden’s mini rock concert I found myself sitting at a table. Raiden got down from the stage as a cake was rolled in by Swarm, a very large cake I may add. “Pinkie made it for the occasion.”
“Alright! Now the party can really start!” Raiden cried, zooming over to the cake.
“It’s just cake Raiden,” I said, walking over. “It’s not exactly a rare occurrence during a ponyville party.”
“Not when I got a sweet surprise inside!” Raiden laughed, rubbing his hooves together.
“Raiden, ah dun think that’-” Big Mac began.
“Aww, don’t be squares, guys,” Raiden said with a wave of his hoof. He looked to Swarm “Pop open that sucker!”
Swarm took a knife and was about to cut the cake when it suddenly burst open. Before my eyes County was there, her blond mane covered in cake and her bronze coat showing sweat. She had a whisky bottle in her hoof. “Bout time! Ya have no idea how hot it is in there!”
“County?” I said in shock. “What’re you doing here?”
“Oh howdy Private,” she smiled. “Fancy runnin’ into you here, ah was comin’ by fer the weddin’ and somewhere between here,” she pointed to the top of her bottle. “And here,” she pointed to the bottom, “Ah ended up at that Sugar Cube corner area. Next thing ah know ah ended up replacing some perdy mare and ended up in the cake.” She smirked at me, “Ya wouldn’t happen ta all be havin’ a stag party now are ya?”
“We were until you showed up,” Raiden said.
County suddenly glared at Raiden. “You...”
“Crap,” Raiden gasped, looking very nervous.
“Yer that no good rock star that groped my flank durin’ that party years ago!” County shouted, climbing out of the cake and stomping over to Raiden. “Ah dun take too kindly to stallions who like to touch what ain’t there's.”
Raiden gulped, “Come on, it was years ago, I have a marefriend now.”
County just smirked and gave him a shove that sent the pegasus on his back. “Jus’ so long as you remember how hard ah kick, Raiden Bolt, we’ll be fine.”
“I can feel the pain resurfacing on my face from sheer memory,” Raiden winced, feeling his cheek.
Big Mac laughed, “Mighty good tah see ya, County. Braeburn talked a lot about ya in his letters.”
“Well you must be Big Macintosh,” County said. “Ah heard you roped in a pegasus yourself, some sweet thing named Fluttershy.”
Big Mac blushed as us guys laughed. When it came to Fluttershy, Big Mac was all shy and quiet himself. Again, made for one another in my opinion.
“Now ah’d love tah stay and chat with y'alls,” County said, tossing her whisky bottle in a recycle bin, “But Ah’ll let you boys have some fun.”
As County left, I couldn’t help but notice her head was hanging a little. Her black cowpony hat was drooping a little. I looked at the others, “I’ll be back in a sec.”
I met County outside and asked, “County, are you okay?”
“Sure, right as rain Private,” she lied through her teeth “Ah got whisky in mah belly, Raiden’s ego smashed and got a weddin’ tah see tommara. Everythin’s great.”
“County, I know when something’s wrong,” I said flatly.
She sighed, “Ah guess it’s no bother lyin’ ‘bout it. Yer one of the few ponies who could see through it all.”
“Why are you really here County?” I asked her firmly. “What happened with you and Braeburn?”
She closed her gold eyes for a minute and said, “Ah made a damn fool of mahself.”
“County...” I said in that tone you use whenever somepony made a mistake but you’re trying to be as gentle as you could about putting it.
“The idiot had tah go and fall fer me,” she said somberly. “The reason Ah’m not Appaloosa is because he did it. Ah honestly though he was sly fer a while, cause ever since we’ve started workin’ tahgether he ain’t never looked at another mare. When ah asked him about it he said he wasn’t sly, that he just had his eye on a mare and he didn’t feel right lookin’ at another.”
“That mare was you?” I guessed.
“Yep,” she said, looking down. “Thing was ah didn’t think he would fall for me. So ah went over to where his date was going to be so ah could see the perdy mare he was fallin’ fer. Turns out, the date was fer me.”
“County...you didn’t...”
“What was ah supposed to do? Lie and pretend ah was anythin’ more than a no good drunk hick who would probably go and break his heart anyway?!” She yelled at me. “Private ah couldn’t stay there, it’d just make things complicated. Sides, he’s better off without a mare like me.”
“Is that you, or your mom talking?” I asked firmly.
She stopped talking at that.
“Your mom treated you like trash after your dad left. County, you can’t let what she said color your view of yourself.”
“Ya can’t talk like that Private,” She said, looking away. “Yer family home was right and comfortable. Mine was loud, cramped, and stank of alcohol.”
“Braeburn deserves to at least hear why you won’t let anypony in.”
“Don’t you dare bring up Rawhide!” she screamed.
“I think I should because it’s why you won’t ever get close to a guy!” I yelled at her. “He destroyed whatever opinion you had of guys. While you were a miserable wreck I carried you across town on my back, that’s hard to forget County.”
County looked down, and then back up. “If ah dun run away, then you gotta promise you won’t neither.”
“Huh?” I asked, tilting my head.
“Ah knew you’ve got some weddin’ day jitters in ya,” County smiled. “Ah’m tellin ya right now city boy, ya ain’t gonna run off, got it?”
“All of this was to make sure I didn’t run off?” I said quizzically.
She shrugged, “That, or ah really did end up in the cake anyways.”
“So, where are you going to go now?” I asked.
“Some city boy pointed out that ah shouldn’t run away,” she said, smiling at me before turning. “Twi’s lucky tah have ya, ah pegged you two together from the start.”
“If you even think of showing up to the wedding drunk, I will kick your flank though,” I said firmly.
She chuckled and galloped off into the night. I returned to the bar and saw that Raiden had another cake. “Sweet! Maybe this one has the dancer in it!”
“That or it could-a just be Berry Punch,” Potso laughed.
“Laugh it all you want Potso!” Raiden yelled. “But we’ll be getting our exotic dancer right now!”
Suddenly the cake burst open to reveal....
The Doctor?!
“Wow, it’s actually kind of tight in there.” He turned and saw me. “Oh, hello Private, been a while. And look! You got a bachelor party together! I knew this was the right cake!”
“Do-” I cut myself off and said, “Doctor Time Turner? What are you doing here?”
“Well somepony-” He giggled a little, I gave him a glare. “Sorry, um, right, somepony sent me an invitation remember?”
Right, I did stick an invitation on the Tardis.
“Hey! Where’s the exotic dancer?” Raiden asked, sticking his head into the now empty cake.
“Well, I am technically exotic, not much of a dancer though,” the Doctor quipped. “Anyways, allow me to show you all a good time! I’ve been to more bachelor parties then I can count but every one is a ship load of fun!”
With that, The Doctor joined our party. Music was added and he began stranger jigs then I’ve seen Twilight dance. And that’s saying something.
I laughed a little and went up to the bar. What County talked about rolled over in my mind. Potso walked over to me. “As your best stallion and friend I think I should ask for your thoughts.”
I sighed, “Posto, do you think I rushed into this?”
“The wedding?” Potso asked, cleaning a wine glass. “The speed of the preparations was-a something to behold, but I don’t know if rushing into it is the right word.”
I leaned my head on a hoof and said, “It’s just, tomorrow is my wedding day. I’m going to spend the rest of my life with Twilight. Will I be a good husband to her? A good father to our kids? Will I be able to handle being married to a princ-”
Potso laughed.
“What’s so funny?” I asked.
“It’s just, you sound so much like your marefriend right now. Constantly questioning yourself over which actions should-a be taken. My friend, I believe all you have are wedding day jitters. You’re facing a big time in your life and nopony here can-a blame you for being nervous.”
“This is why you're my best stallion,” I smiled.
“You have-a nothing to worry about. So long as you remember that you are marrying a wonderful, beautiful mare, and the rest will be easy. Just say I Do up there and everything will-a work out.”
My friends know me so well. Cake, and soda, a little wine, but not too much, especially with Sour Grapes watching the alcohol intake.
“You’re a light-weight, Twilight. That’s all there is to it. Also, you don’t need to be hung over on your wedding day.” Leave it to Grapes to tell you the truth, no matter how bad it hurts. Luckily our wedding was late enough in the day that everypony else who did drink a lot would have, hopefully, recovered. With the exception of poor Berry Punch, she’s a lost cause and ended up having to be let out before she drank all the wine.
I looked over and saw Celestia walking towards me, cake levitating beside her. “Quite a get-together your friends have done, Twilight.”
“I’m just lucky to have the best friends in the wo-” I stopped when I noticed it. “Princess, what happened to your crown?”
Celestia felt her head, sure enough her crown was gone “It seems in all the excitement it got away from me. I wonder where it went?”
Celestia and I soon found it. Standing on the table, looking a little tipsy, was Derpy, on her head was Celestia’s crown. A balloon was on her wing. She cried out, “I Princess Derpina, declare that all be given muffins!”
I panicked and was about to run over and get the crown away from Derpy but Celestia beat me to it.
“Oh, gracious princess, all are to be given muffins?” Celestia asked, then looked thoughtful. “I have to say that’s a declaration I can eagerly support.”
“Then let it be so oh faithful subject!” Derpy declared, the crown tilting down her head as it was too big for her. “I shall also raise the sun!!” Her wing flapped and the yellow balloon floated into the air, I couldn’t help but smile at just how adorkable Derpy can be. Celestia seemed to take this all in good humor.
Celestia touched her horn to Derpy’s head and the grey pegasus then fell asleep. My mentor gently picked Derpy up in her magic and set her down on a cleared couch. She then took the crown and said, “I think, you would make a fine Princess Derpina.”
Derpy smiled in her sleep and mumbled, “Muffin throne...”
Celestia just smiled and replaced her crown on her head.
“As much fun as this has been, I’ve got to get some air. Will you all be alright without me, for a bit?” I asked.
The other guests all gave varying voices of approval. I stepped outside into the night and looked up at Luna’s sky. I began wondering and thinking over all that’s going on. Am I really ready for this? I know I said ‘yes’ but... This is a pretty big step. As big as becoming a princess, in some ways. Am I truly ready to be married?
“And there you are, looking all worried. Somepony’s got pre-wedding jitters?” Cadence asked, as she came out to stand beside me. I sighed.
“I’m just wondering if I jumped into this too quickly,” I admitted. “I mean, sure we’ve known each other for a year, but... This is a pretty big step, you know?”
“I know. I went through the same thing, too,” Cadence replied. “Sure I’d known Shiny since we were teenagers, and he finally got up the courage to ask, but I was still seriously nervous about the whole thing... I think it helped to remember that I wasn’t marrying The Captain of the Royal Guard, but the nicest stallion I’ve ever known. And he didn’t want me because I was a princess, but because he truly loved me, the nice girl who foalsat his sister.”
I smiled, put a hoof to my chest and took in a breath, letting it out in perfect imitation of her. We both laughed and I said, “Maybe you’re right. It is probably just wedding day jitters.”
She smiled in turn and whispered in my ear, “I’m sure you’ll do fine, I’m sure you’re eager for the wedding night too.”
Wedding... Night...? Me and Private... Doing... things... Oh... My... GOSH!
Was I drooling? And when did it get so hot, out here? I looked over at Cadence who was laughing the whole way back. OH MY GOSH! Did I really just have one of those dreams?
I sure hope Luna didn’t see it. I don’t think I’d hear the end of it from Celestia.
I looked down the street and saw Private walking away from Potso’s pizzeria. Hmm? Did he leave his party too? Well, it’s going to be the last time I get to see him until I walk down the aisle. Better make the most of it.
In fact...the moonlight makes his coat shade just ri... NO Brain, you stay away! Stay away from those thoughts! I’m warning you... Wow, he looks goooood like... NOT AGAIN!
I walked up the hill, glad to be away from the party for a bit. I sat down and looked up at Luna’s night sky. I mulled over everything Potso and the others were saying. They were right, I was just nervous and scared about taking this big step. But every stallion or mare in this situation would be scared.
I heard hoof-steps behind me and saw a great sight. Twilight had come over from the Library. She was smiling at me, but looked a little... flushed. I hope she was all right.
“Hey, Private,” she said quietly. “Party get a little too much for you, too?”
“Yeah,” I nodded as she came to sit beside me.
“Are you nervous, too?” she asked.
“Yeah, I mean...” I looked over at her. “I’m about to marry the single most beautiful and smart mare in the universe, that’s a lot of pressure on a guy.” Twilight giggled, blushing even more, if that’s possible.
“And I’m marrying the smartest, cleverest, and handsomest stallion in Equestria, who’s been knighted for being a national hero, for saving Equestria from a genocidal madstallion. So... Who’s got the most pressure on them?” Twilight asked, with a raised eyebrow.
I just smiled and nuzzled her affectionately. She returned my nuzzle and I said, “I’m excited to start our life together.”
“Me too.” She laid a kiss on my cheek, “I’ve been waiting for the day for a long time.”
“Well, it’s a few hours before you have to disappear on me,” I pointed out. “Bad luck to see the bride before the wedding and all.”
She smiled, “Well, there is something I want to do.” Her eyes became a mischievous half lidded. “Now that we’re alone together.”
“Oh,” I smiled slowly, “And what might that be?”
“Hmm,” Twilight pondered. “How about... you serenade me? Please?”
“Serenade?” I laughed. “Seriously?”
“Well, maybe a girl wants to have her fiance just go nuts romantically,” she said, nuzzling my neck tenderly.
I smiled and took her in my forelegs, dipping her slowly and began to sing,
I can’t fight this feeling any longer,
And yet I’m still afraid to let it flow.
What started out as friendship has grown stronger,
I only wish I had the strength to let it show.
I tell myself I can’t hold out forever,
I say there is no reason for my fear.
‘Cause I feel so secure when we’re together,
You give my life direction, you make everything so clear.
And even as I wander, I’m keeping you in sight.
You’re a candle in the window on a cold, dark winter night.
I smiled and set her down on the earth, her amethyst eyes twinkling in the starlight. I continued on, happy I didn’t completely botch it.
And I’m getting closer than I ever thought I might.
I can’t fight this feeling, anymore.
I’ve forgotten what I’ve started fighting for.
It’s time to bring this ship into the shore, and throw away the oars, forever.
‘Cause I can’t fight this feeling, anymore.
Suddenly, before I went into the next repeat of the chorus...
SPROING!
Twilight blushed brightly as her wings became fully erect. I covered my mouth with a hoof as she cried, “Don’t laugh! Geez! It’s not my fault I can’t control them yet!”
“It’s flattering Twilight,” I chuckled, setting myself down beside her as she tried to flatten her wings. “It shows that you find my singing tolerable.”
She blushed and rubbed her hooves nervously. “Well um, it helped that it was you.”
I smiled and simply laid a kiss on her. She looked over and suddenly I was pulled into her forelegs, our lips fighting to get at one another and our legs wrapping around each other. We kissed, our hooves rubbing each other’s backs, and this went on for a while, until Twilight pushed herself away, panting a bit. “Sorry,” she panted. “Got a bit... carried away.”
I just held her tenderly as we laid in the grass. “It’s okay. I said I’d wait until you were ready. I plan to keep that promise, Twilight.”
She snuggled into me and said, “I don’t think I’m as nervous anymore. I can’t wait until after tomorrow.” She then looked up, “Just, promise me that no matter what happens, we’ll still love each other.”
“I promise,” I said, kissing her lovingly. “I’m not about to let you go again, Twi, I made that mistake before.”
She returned my kiss and then we parted. Twilight and I stood, looked at each other and Twi said, “See you tomorrow, Preventus.”
“You too, Twi,” I said, smiling at her.
She blew a kiss towards me and trotted off back to the library.
I wasn’t nervous anymore. I was about to marry the most wonderful mare I’ve ever known. Somehow, I was looking forward to tomorrow with excitement not fear.
I love her, more than anything this world can offer...
“Per l'amore di Celestia Private, will you stop fidgeting?” Potso complained as he tried desperately to straighten my bow tie.
“Sorry,” I said. “I’m just nervous.”
We were in the changing room which was really just one of the rooms at Ponyville’s Hotel lobby. The place was converted for everypony to use as a dressing room. Right now, I felt like I was being grabbed all over the place. In between Raiden and Big Mac running lint rollers over the suit jacket, Swarm buzzing over my head trying to get my hat mane into some measure of decency, and Potso fighting my bow tie, it was hard to find breathing room.
Finally they let go of me and I was allowed to look at the results in the mirror. I was clad in a suit specially made for me by Rarity and Cross. The tuxedo was a traditional black with a white shirt and red bow tie provided by the Doctor. Hey, bow ties are cool, remember?
It’s been almost non stop working since this morning. I was forced awake by Raiden and dragged down to the spa to get ready. I swear Lotus and Aloe looked about ready to scream when they saw me. Next thing I know, I’m dragged here by my best stallion and put into my tuxedo. It all happened so fast I took a breath just to try and handle it all.
Potso slid a hoof over my shoulder “Ha ha, look at you Private, off to get married to la ragazza dei tuoi sogni.”
Yeah, no pressure.
The other groom’s stallions left me alone with my thoughts. I looked in the mirror, and loosened up the bangs on my mane a little. It was only about an hour before I had to be up there. I was beyond nervous at this point. Part of me wanted to run away from Ponyville and forget the whole thing. But then I reminded myself who I was marrying.
A smile came to my face and I said to my reflection, “Just say I Do, and you’ll be fine.”
The door opened and I turned to see Tailspin, Dad, and Cross enter. Tailspin rolled up to me excitedly. “You look great Private! I can’t wait for it all to start!”
“Are there any loose strings or tears Private?” Cross asked, examining my tuxedo.
“No, I’m fine Cross, you and Rarity did a good job,” I smiled at my cousin.
That earned a flush of embarrassment from Cross. He always acted like that whenever I praised him for using the talent he got, not what he wanted.
Dad looked on me, his blue eyes looked, almost misty. “Dad?” I asked, concerned.
“Forgive me,” he said, shaking his grey head and righting himself. “I just wish Sparrow could see you now, so grown up and about to marry a wonderful mare.”
“Dad,” I said, a smile on my own face. “I’m glad we made up in time for this.”
Dad smiled and walked over to me, before pulling me into a hug. At first I didn’t know what to do, then for the first time in a while, I hugged my dad. Dad beamed as he held me, “You’ve made more proud than any father could possibly be. Know that above everything.”
“Dad,” I choked, trying not to get misty eyed myself.
He let me go and said, “I’m sure Sparrow thinks the same.”
“I still miss her dad,” I admitted.
“I know, but I’m sure she’s smiling as wide as she can be in the life after this one,” he smiled.
Tailspin and Cross were discussing the wedding while Dad and I talked. “Dad, I’m still nervous about all this. Will I be able to say the vows?”
“In truth, I was just as nervous when I was about to marry your mother,” Dad admitted.
“You were?” I asked, a little surprised.
“Yes, I bumbled my way through the vows during rehearsal. I was just blown away by the idea I was marrying my best friend for years. But, that all changed, when she walked down the aisle in her wedding dress. Once I saw her like that, all anxiety just melted away. Just focus on Twilight, and you’ll be fine.”
“Dad, thanks,” I smiled. “I needed that.”
“Also,” Dad added, “I’ve gotten Celestia to take you both to your honeymoon on that private island I bought back.”
“Dad, you didn’t have to,” I said. “Twilight and I would’ve been happy with a honeymoon at Manehatten or some other city not so expensive.”
“Well, I’m not about to have my grandchildren conceived in just some drafty hotel room in the city.”
“DAD!!!” I yelled, my cheeks flushing at the thought.
Dad laughed as Tailspin rolled up to him. “Dad come on, we’re going to be late and I have to practice some more.”
“I’m coming Tailspin,” Dad said, following Tailspin and Cross before stopping and looking behind me. “Think on what I said, and you’ll be fine Preventus.”
“Sure dad,” I said, smiling.
With that, I was left alone in my dressing room. I looked at my reflection and said “I Do...”
“All right, everypony, this is my greatest work. IF THERE IS SO MUCH AS A DROPPED HEM...”
“Geez, Rarity, we get it,” Rainbow muttered with a roll of her eyes, and very grateful that she was on preening duty, with Fluttershy.
“Okie dokey, we’re going to get your hair all curly-whirly to look really bride-er-riffic!” Pinkie enthused.
“‘Brid-er-riffic’?” I uttered, sounding concerned.
“Relax, Twilie-wilie, just let your Auntie Pinkie take care of the mane, kay?”
“... Pinkie, I think we’re about the same age,” I said.
“Eh, minor detail,” Pinkie dismissed. “AJ! Pass me that spray whatzit!”
“Ya mean tha mane spray?” Applejack asked dubiously.
“Duh, you gotta stay on top of things AJ!” Pinkie declared. I groaned. This is turning into a disaster, and I haven’t started to get cold hooves, and even if I did, I’d never make it out of here, grab Private and elope to where we wouldn’t have to deal with crazy ponies, with crazy mane styles, and crazy dresses getting ready for a crazy ceremony... Wow, I sound like I did when I first came here.
“FINALLY!” Rarity gasped, obviously unused to her masterpieces in the hooves of amateurs. “Twilight, darling, why don’t you take a look?”
I turned to the mirror, and could not believe my eyes.
“Is... Is that ME?!” My jaw dropped a little as I stared into the reflective surface.
“You look beautiful Twilight,” Fluttershy complemented, hovering over my shoulder.
“Why if Private dosen’ faint at the sight of ya Ah’d be surprised.” Applejack chuckled.
“He’s gonna be all like,” Pinkie pulled Private’s hat out of nowhere, “Who the hoary horseradished hay is that!” She then pulled Celestia’s crown out of nowhere. “Uh, that’s the mare you’re getting all marry warry’d to!” She put Private’s hat back on. “WHAAA!!!!”
Rainbow laughed, “Well, at least your wings look good. Just don’t try and fly off with them, we don’t need a repeat performance at Canterlot where you almost dropped Private.”
I couldn’t help but smile and shake my head at all this.
“It is my finest work Twilight,” Rarity said, smiling wide herself, but then frowned, “If you and Private don’t see this through I’m killing you both!”
“Don’t worry Rarity,” I said, still looking at my reflection. “I’ll be fine, you girls should get ready yourselves.”
“Let’s all hop to it then!” AJ said as the others followed her out the door. I was left alone for the first time all day.
So today is the big day. I’m marrying Private... I’m marrying Private. Oh... And I thought I was over being nervous! What am I going to DO?! What do I do? What do I say? What if I mess up? What if I trip, and ruin the dress? Rarity would never forgive me! Wait... Wait... Getting through this means... Wedding night, and... Oh... Oh yeah... Me and Private... It will be so worth the wait...
“Twilight?” The door suddenly opened and my mother came in. Just when I was about to... Oh right, probably not a good idea. Wings could very easily go ‘sproing’ and then I’d be in trouble for messing up the preening job.
I turned around and my mom almost broke down in tears as she saw me. Her blue eyes started tearing up already as Dad walked in behind her. Mom wiped her eyes with a hoof and sobbed, “I can’t believe this, my little baby is getting married. I used to hold you in my forelegs while you sucked your little hoof.”
“Mom!!” I yelled, embarrassed that she kept bringing up stuff like that. But, I guess I couldn’t really blame her.
“We’re really proud of you sweetheart,” Dad said, walking to me and taking me in. “You’ve made us some of the proudest parents in the world.”
“Thanks Daddy,” I smiled.
Mom then walked to me, and hugged me as best she could without ruining anything. “No matter what happens, you’ll always be my little filly. Never forget that Twilight.”
“I won’t mom,” I said, hugging her as best I could. “You won’t let me forget it.”
Mom let go of me reluctantly and joined Dad to head outside. I smiled at them, maybe after I’m married I should try and spend more time with them. They deserve to have their daughter care about them.
Another pair came through the door, Shining Armor and Cadence walked through. Cadence smiled wide upon seeing me. “I don’t think you need my love spell for today Twilight.”
I smiled at my sister in law, “I would do our greeting, but then Rarity would kill me in my sleep for ruining her masterpiece.”
Both of us laughed as Shining Armor came up, clad in his uniform.
I smirked, “No liquid pride this time?”
“Trying to hold it back,” he said, smiling tenderly. “My little sister’s grown up, give a guy a break.”
“I’m just glad I had a good example to go on for what my husband should be.” I said, smiling at him.
He smiled in turn and looked at Cadence. “Come on, let’s get our seats.”
Cadence nodded in turn and looked at me. “We checked, no changeling invasion this time.”
We both laughed a little as they left. I was really happy for both of them. I was about to return to the mirror when one last pony entered. My mentor, Princess Celestia was standing there. She lifted a hoof to her mouth and a tear fell from her eye. “Princ-I mean, Celestia, what’s wrong?”
“Forgive me.” She wiped her eye with a hoof. “I just, am proud to see you like this. To have come so far and have all your work rewarded.”
I smiled, “I couldn’t have done it without you.”
She smiled in turn, “I wish you and Private all the best in your coming lives. I’m also proud you chose to remain mortal.”
I looked at her a little puzzled, “I thought you’d be mad that I didn’t conduct that ceremony.”
“Twilight, I speak from experience that immortality is not something I would honestly wish on anypony. It ruins how one sees the world and the lives of others. But, you’ve brought faith back in me of mortals. You’ve been the daughter I wish I had and my finest student I’ve ever trained. You’ve come farther than any who have come before. I wish you nothing but happiness in the days to come.”
I tried to fight tears myself. It was, just so amazing to hear her say all that. I wanted to run and hug her myself. But again, Rarity would kill me in my sleep. I just said, “I only hope, that when I take on a student, that I can be as great a teacher as you are.”
Celestia smiled, “It is almost time, I should get to my position. It seems I have another royal wedding to perform.”
With that, my mentor left. I turned back to the mirror, no longer nervous and scared like before. I had all these wonderful ponies backing me up. They put a lot of faith in me, it’s time I put that into action.
So here I am, up on the dais, looking around at all the decorations from the perspective I hadn’t seen them, before. The decorations are all for the audience, of course, and I’m a part of them. I took a deep shaky breath, looking at the ever-serene Princess Celestia, standing under the arbor that framed her podium, it too festooned with flowers to celebrate the occasion. The planter boxes looked fresh and new, the ribbons on the lampposts all faced the audience, naturally, and I could see a sea of ponies, all... staring right at me. I swallowed hard. Is it too late to elope?
Potso smiled over at me in an attempt to try and calm my nerves. It helped a little but it didn’t detract from my overall nervousness of what was to come. I looked over at Celestia but all I got from her was a small smile.
I felt my legs shaking a little. I’ve never felt this nervous in my whole life. I tried not to let it show but it was getting harder and harder as time went on. But then, Raiden took to the piano and began the wedding march. Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Dinky came down the aisle throwing flowers everywhere... That’s...
Dear sweet Celestia... That’s... Twilight?! I could feel my jaw drop, as I took her in. Oh... My... She was dressed in white, I have no idea what the material was, but it looked very light and airy. It shimmered as she walked, the train floating, so it would not get dirty, but it was still rather long, lacy and seemed to twinkle with a thousand little tiny jewels. Her dress shimmered in the sunlight, it was white, but it had different colors, too, like mother-of-pearl. The sleeves were poofy, with vertical dags, with magenta fabric in the openings, Twilight beamed as she looked up toward me, her hair styled into gorgeous ringlets, and it looked like her wings had been preened to a glossy shine. On her head was her crown, but a wedding veil hanged from it, I could see Twilight’s smiling face a little. How in the hoary horsradished hay did she keep all that... looking so good?
Any doubt that I was going to marry her blew away with the wind. I smiled at her, and watched as she took her place beside me. I felt nothing but assuredness as I gazed into her violet eyes, accented a with a little make up. I wanted to lift her up in my hooves and declare my love for her in the most cheesiest way possible. But, then Celestia raised her wings for everypony’s attention.
Twilight and I turned up to the princess as she spoke, “Mares and Gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of two very special ponies. Ponies that Equestria owes debts to that can never be repaid. Sir Preventus Phelps Eye, and Princess Twilight Annamarie Sparkle. These two ponies have given much, sacrificed much, and have done a lot for the betterment of Equestria, and now, it is only fitting that they get a small something for themselves.” She raised a hoof to each of us in turn. “For they are more than deserving. Now, I have the honor of bringing them together in holy matrimony.” The Princess then looked out at the crowd, and smiled in a very mischievous manner, her eyes twinkling with mirth. “Should any pony have any reason for these two not to be joined in glorious matrimony... They can take it up with me, and they will be enjoying new digs on the moon,” Celestia said with a very impish grin, obviously joking. The audience chuckled. Twilight, and I did, too.
Any lingering nervousness... Well, nothing like a little levity to help calm the nerves.
“Bring forth the rings,” Celestia declared. I looked over to see Spike and Tailspin coming. Each of them held Twilight and mine’s respective rings. Both of them smiled at us as they held the rings before us. We used our magic to levitate the rings. Twilight’s was the one Spike made. Mine was a simple gold band that Twilight had made for me.
Both Twilight and I stood facing one another as Celestia spoke, “Do you, Twilight Annemarie Sparkle, take Preventus Phelps Eye to be your lawfully wedded husband? To have and to hold, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, for better or worse, until death do you part?”
Twilight looked at me, her eyes beaming as she said with confidence, “I Do.”
Celestia then spoke again, “Do you, Preventus Phelps Eye, take Twilight Annemarie Sparkle as your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to hold, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, for better or worse, until death do you part?”
I looked at Twilight, for a moment I couldn’t say anything. My throat dried up and I just couldn’t speak for a moment. But then, I looked at Twilight, remembered not what I was marrying, but who I was marrying. I slowly smiled and said, not confidently, but just gently, “I Do...”
I looked at Twilight’s amethyst eyes and said, “Twilight, from the moment I met you, you’ve had such an indescribable influence on my life. Your laugh, your talent, your heart, all so many things I could say about what I love about you. But, above all, you were my friend as well as my love. I vow to remain beside you, to always be there to hold you, to care for you, until my very last breath I will be beside you.” I lifted the ring and gently slid it on her horn. “With this ring, I thee wed.”
Twilight held my ring in her magic as her eyes gazed into mine from behind her wedding veil. “Private, you’ve been the greatest friend I’ve ever had. Always there, always keeping me sane and feeling loved in everything we’ve done together. We’ve had our arguments and fights, but we always came back to each other in the end. I promise never to leave you, and never forsake the love I hold for you, so long as you love me in return.” She raised the ring and slid it on my horn. “With this ring, I thee wed.”
Twilight and I looked at each other as Celestia spread her wings and declared, “Then, by the power vested in me as Princess of Equestria, and in the company of all these witnesses; I now pronounce you, husband and wife. You, may kiss the bride.”
I lifted Twilight’s veil with my magic and pulled her into the most love filled kiss I could muster. She kissed back with equal tenderness and love, I felt her tears but I knew they were tears of joy. I just poured all the love I held for her into our first kiss as husband and wife.
The crowd roared, Cadence screamed, “YES!” and I think someponies yelled, “Goooooooooal!” or something. But, I was too focused on my wife right now.
Wife... Twilight’s my wife now...
Twilight and I broke our kiss and simply looked at one another, our eyes showing so much love I think Swarm was going to have an overdose.
I then heard Fluttershy say, ”Oh I’m so happy for them I could just scream!” She took a big breath and sounded a quiet, “yay”
Rainbow face hoofed. “You gotta be kidding me! Fluttershy! Our friends just got married! You can make it louder than that!”
“Um, yay?” Fluttershy said, a little louder.
“Louder!” Rainbow commanded.
“Yay!
“Louder!”
“YAY!”
“LOUDER!!!”
Fluttershy took the biggest breath she could muster and then… “YAY!!!”
Rainbow was blown back into a nearby flower bed from the sheer force of Fluttershy’s cheer. The butter yellow pegasus flew to her friend. “Oh my gosh! Rainbow Dash are you okay?”
“That was music to my now bleeding ears,” Rainbow groaned, her eyes dizzy.
We all laughed as Twilight and I walked down the aisle together. We walked hoof in hoof, not really paying attention to all the cheers whoops and cries from the crowd. It was just us two.
The party was in absolute full swing. Pinkie had transformed the Ponyville’s park area into a reception for the ages. Streamers, balloons, a nicely separated dancing area, and the buffet. Ponies all around us were dancing, enjoying the food, and Vinyl was providing the music up front. I was sitting with Twilight at the head table, laughing as we saw everypony having fun.
I was in the best mood I’ve been in years. I couldn’t help but smile at everything. I was married now! I got past the hurdle and finally said I Do. I was the happiest stallion alive! Twilight was all smiles as well. She would impulsively pull me into a kiss every now and again.
When the last song was over from Vinyl, Raiden flew up to the mic. “Are you all enjoying this party?!” he shouted to the crowd.
Everypony cheered, several mares screamed, “WE LOVE YOU RAIDEN!!!”
They would be getting a talking to from Rainbow later that’s for sure. Raiden just chuckled, “So anyways, to provide some entertainment for our awesome bride and groom, I thought it would be fun to do a little open mic. I mean, I’m sure you’d all love to hear me sing all night, but I think there could be some hidden talent here.”
Everypony clamored to try and get the attention of Raiden, finally Raiden pointed to Big Mac who was sitting with Fluttershy. “Come on big guy!”
Before Big Mac could protest, Swarm and Pinkie began shoving him on stage. I knew Raiden meant this as a joke. Nopony has ever heard Big Mac sing before. Well, nopony outside his family at least, and when he was seen singing, it was usually part of a larger group, so nopony knew what his voice, alone, would sound like.
Applejack yelled from where she was standing at the buffet, “Come on Big Mac! Show em how Apples sang round ere!”
Big Mac looked at the mic, than at the crowd, than he whispered something to Raiden. Raiden nodded and told Vinyl. She gave him a “You can’t be serious” look. Raiden just rolled his eyes and said something more. Vinyl sighed and fiddled with her turn table.
By Celestia’s flowing mane can this guy sing. Everypony was just stunned by his baritone voice that sang with such a soul that even Vinyl was speechless. Big Mac took the mic and started walking with it in his hoof around the crowd.
Your love, there’s no tellin’ where Ah’d be, without your love,
Stumblin’ in the dark, would be pretty rough
when Ah get down, yer the one,
That lifts me up
I thank the stars above,
for your love...
He eventually, came to Fluttershy whose eyes were only focused on him. Twilight and I smiled at each other and a lot of ponies smiled themselves at the sight. Big Mac, was singing to his love Fluttershy.
Fluttershy couldn’t help but smile as Big Mac’s voice reached her ears and she realized the lyrics were about her.
In this day and time, the right one’s hard tah find
Girl that’s why, Ah’m holdin’ onto you!
Each and every night, when we turn off the light
There’s no mistaken what we have is true...
Fluttershy looked about ready to burst with happiness at this. I couldn’t help but smile and laugh a little at her expression. She was just so happy it was Big Mac singing this. Twilight nudged me and asked, “Did I look like that ever?”
“When I proposed,” I said, giving my wife a kiss on the cheek. That earned a smile on her face and a nuzzle as Big Mac went on.
Soulmate, Ah hope old together
Soulmate, in the good and bad,
and even through, the heartache
We’ve got a special bond, that’ll never break...
Big Mac walked to Fluttershy, took her hoof in one of his free ones and pulled her onto the dance floor. Everypony cheered loudly and cleared a path for them. Fluttershy would’ve shrank normally at this gesture. But I think she was too focused on Big Mac’s song to care about being the center of attention.
‘Cause darlin you and ah, are soulmates...
The pair began dancing as Big Mac sang into the mic as best he could, thankfully it was wireless. After a minute, Twilight’s horn glowed and she levitated the mic over Big Mac so he could freely sing and dance at the same time.
In this day and time, the right one is hard to find
Girl that’s why, Ah’m holdin’ onto you
Each and every night, when we turn off the light
there’s no mistakin’, what we have is true
Big Mac gazed into Fluttershy’s filled with tears of joy eyes and sang just to her.
Soulmate...until the end of time you’re mah,
Soulmate...
I’ll love you till ah get to heaven’s gate...
We’ve got a special bond, that’ll never break
‘Cause darlin you and ah are, soulmates...
Yeah Ah know Ah’ll never find,
Big Mac embraced Fluttershy and sang the last words,
Another...soul mate....
The crowd practically exploded into cheers, everypony including me was so impressed we yelled and screamed in absolute awe and wonder. Fluttershy would’ve joined in if she wasn’t so busy kissing Big Mac like she was gonna die tomorrow.
Raiden on the stage was trying to look cool. “Okay, that was pretty good I’ll admit. But you still got about twenty percent more training before you become as good as me.”
“This country and romantic stuff is driving me nuts!” Vinyl cried. “Let’s spin this shiz!” She slapped on another record and suddenly everypony was dancing again. Open mics were forgotten as everypony’s dancing took priority.
Then suddenly space was being made in the center, as everypony started watching a pair of dancers. Wait, was that Grapes and Stormfront? They were there, moving their hooves to the driving beat, and when the singing started, they took each other’s hooves and began to move to the melody. They spun, strutted, and generally were... Well amazing was the only way to describe it. There seemed to be a lot of Salsa, or something, mixed with something akin to ballet, especially when Stormy lifted Grapes to the tune of the chorus. No wonder everypony just had to stop and stare. Those two were GOOD.
“And that, ladies and gentleponies, is why she has the VIP pass!” Vinyl declared. She then looked over and saw Octavia coming. “Oh, seems you can’t resist my charms for long can you, Octy?”
“Despite what you may believe, Vinyl, not everypony worships you,” Octavia said, rolling her eyes. “I’m just here to tell you that the next selection is, how to say it, more my speed.”
Vinyl snored, her eyes obscured by her sunglasses.
“Oh stop it!” With that, she shoved Vinyl off the stage and spoke in the mic. “Ladies and Gentlecolts, I wish to inform all of you that Moongale will be taking the stage.”
I saw Sweetie Belle zoom over. “Oh my gosh! THE Moongale!? I have all of her albums!”
Twilight and I smiled and laughed a little. Seems Rainbow isn’t the only one with a super fan among the CMC.
“Also, Moongale requested that this be the couple’s first dance as husband and wife.” Octavia went on.
All eyes fell on me and Twilight, we smiled and took each other’s hooves. We walked out onto the dance floor as Moongale and the others took the stage. Octavia, Lyra, Frederick Horseshopin, and Harpo took the stage, and played... Well it wasn’t classical, but it was rather musical. Moonegale took the mic, and began to sing.
For all those times you stood by me,
For all the truth that you made me see,
For all the joy you brought to my life,
For all the wrongs that you made right,
“Did you choose this song?” I asked Twilight, as we waltzed in the middle of the dance floor.
“No, but it does seem rather appropriate, doesn’t it?” she replied, as she listened to the lyrics.
For every dream you made come true,
For all the love I found in you,
I’ll be forever thankful, baby.
You’re the one who held me up, never let me fall.
You’re the one who saw me through, through it all.
You were my strength, when I was weak.
You were my voice when I couldn’t speak.
You were my eyes, when I couldn’t see.
You saw the best there was in me.
Lifted me up, when I couldn’t reach.
You gave me faith, because you believed.
I’m everything I am, because you loved me.
Twilight and I looked into each other’s eyes. That... That was us. More specifically, that was me. I don’t know how Moongale managed it, but she seemed to capture my every emotion for Twilight I felt. She even caught on to how much Twilight had helped me change from the hardened cynic I was becoming to the stallion I am, today. I looked over at my childhood friend and she just winked at me. I couldn’t help but smile myself.
I looked at Twilight, and danced with her as I said, “Twi, thanks for changing me.”
Twilight smiled in turn, “All I did was help you rediscover your noble spirit, that had been buried under all the cynicism, and disappointment. Anyway, you’ve helped me as well Private. I’m more confident, more sure about myself than ever. You inspired me in more ways than I could ever say.”
I just kissed her on the lips with all the love I held for her. Moongale’s voice sang as we danced and kissed in the center.
You were always there for me,
A tender wind that carried me,
A light in the dark, shining your love into my life.
You’ve been my inspiration.
Through the lies you were the truth,
My world is a better place because of you.
With that, she repeated the chorus a final time, and ended the song.Everypony went nuts for Moongale’s singing. She smiled and thanked fans left and right, until a small white unicorn made her way up to the stage. She looked nervously up at Moongale, my friend smiled and looked down at her “Why, hello there, what’s your name?”
Sweetie Belle gulped, “Sw-Sweetie Belle, I-I wanna be a sin-singer too! Jus-Just like you!”
Moongale smiled at her and lowered herself down to the filly’s level. “Maybe one day it’ll be you who’s up on stage. I noticed your cutie mark. I can't wait to see you perform one day Sweetie Belle.”
Sweetie was probably fighting every urge to squeal. It was honestly really cute seeing her idolize Moongale.Then again, if anypony should be the role model for Belle, it should be Moongale.
Twilight and I laughed together as Moongale went about signing Sweetie’s picture of my friend. Moongale took it all with smiles and words of encouragement.
I, only hope I can inspire somepony like that one day.
I stood just on the outskirts of the party. I watched as Twilight and Private danced with one another. I’ve never seen my grandson so happy before. After all he suffered he very much deserved a mare like Twilight to relieve the pain on his heart.
I turned, and saw my son Irenius walking up to me. He looked at me and asked, “Why are you not enjoying the party mother?”
I just kept looking at the couple as they joined in the festivities. “Private tried to invite me but I told him why. I’ll tell you it as well. Adamus is still out there somewhere, until he’s stopped I can’t step in and be an active part of Private’s life. I know it pains me...but...”
“Mother,” Irenius said firmly, “You can’t keep hiding from him.”
“I’m not hiding from Pri-”
“I’m talking about Tailspin,” Irenius said, walking up to sit beside me.
I sighed, “I told you why I can’t.”
“Because you don’t want him to feel pain if something happens to you?” Irenius answered for me.
“I’m old Irenius,” I said. “I’m still absolutely hot, but old nonetheless.” That earned a laugh from both of us. “What I’m saying is, I’d just complicate things.”
“Don’t you think Tailspin deserves to know he has a grandmother?” Irenius asked. “Who fought tooth and hoof to keep Father’s dogs away from his life?”
I sighed, there was no stopping him now. “Sparrow’s made you quite stubborn Irenius. Very well...”
With that, I walked into the party. I moved my way through the crowd trying not to draw attention to myself. Nopony is going to notice an old mare while a star is on the stage. I slowly made my way to the children’s area...and I saw...him....
He was eleven now, his blue coat was mostly covered by the suit he wore as he talked with his friends. I noticed Lazarus’ son Cross among them. There was also a pinto and a red coated earth pony. The colts were all chatting with one another.
I caught a break when Tailspin left his friends for the punch bowl. I got my first good look at my grandson since he was a foal. He inherited his mother’s coat and mane. Even as he moved about in a wheelchair he gave off this aura of genuine love for the world. His blue eyes were his father’s, in fact, it was hard to see myself in him. But, that was of little consequence.
I just, had to talk to him.
No, I shouldn’t, he doesn't need another complication in his life. What would I even say? Would he even want a grandmother that was never there for him? That never held him in her lap and bored him with tales about days long gone? Who never sewed him a tacky sweater during the holidays? Who... stayed out of his life because she was afraid... he would hate her...
“Ma’am?”
I blinked and looked down, Tailspin was right there in front of me. I choked up, unable to say anything at all.
“Um, are you okay ma’am?” he asked, his voice sounding ever so polite and charming. “You’ve been staring off into space for a while.”
I got my bearings and said, “It is well, Tailspin.”
He raised an eyebrow. “I’ve never seen you before, how do you know my name?”
This, was the hardest part... could I ...even...
“Wait,” Tailspin spoke up, “You look a lot like dad and Cross’ dad.”
He’s...
“Are you, a relative of mine or something?” Tailspin asked.
He, he got it right on his own. It seems Private wasn’t the only one with a deductive mind.
I smiled slowly and said, “Well, you are my grandson, so I should think so.”
Tailspin dropped the cup of punch he had in his hooves. His blue eyes stared into my green ones. Here it comes, where were you? Why didn’t you tell me? I hate you get ou...
I felt him...hug me....
He was hugging my chest, his head on my black evening dress. I noticed he was crying. “Tailspin?” I asked, my voice laced with shock.
“I have a grandma,” he sobbed, looking up at me. “I-I hoped somewhere I had one. I’m, glad to meet you finally, Grandma.”
I felt the tears fog up my glasses but I didn’t care. I held Tailspin in my forelegs and embraced him tightly. My grandson, he’s my grandson.
“Grandma are you okay?” Tailspin asked, his voice laced with concern.
“Forgive me, Tailspin.” I looked at him, wiped my glasses with a hoofkerchief in my magic. “You’ve just, worked your way into this old mare’s heart.”
He smiled and took one of my hooves in his. “Come on, I’ll introduce you to my friends.”
With that, I was pulled into Tailspin’s world. Both figuratively and literally.
The song ended and everypony cheered as the dancing had come to a close. I looked over as Mr. and Mrs. Cake began rolling a wagon towards us. That was a huge cake. It was festooned with lacy frosting, and sugar flowers, pillars, and little fondant figurines of myself and Twilight at the top. Thankfully it was, also, large enough to feed a field of ponies, who all wanted some. It was almost too pretty to eat, but the top layer was floated down by Grapes, with a slight smirk, and set in front of Twilight and me.
Twilight gave me a look as I held a stethoscope to it. “Private, what are you doing?”
“Just making sure nothing’s going to pop out, dear,” I explianed, removing the stethoscope.
“And suddenly, I know not to have Raiden in charge of parties,” Twilight quipped.
I smiled, took the cake knife and cut a piece of the cake off. I floated it over to Twilight and she did the honors of taking the first bite. She smiled and said, after swallowing. “An excellent cake, as always.”
“We worked very hard on it. After all you two have done for Ponyville you both deserve it,” Mr. Cake said, leaning against his wife with a smile.
“Let me have a taste,” I said, taking the cake slice but slipped and...it landed on my face.
Twilight laughed as I wiped the cake off. I licked my hoof and said, “Hm, vanilla my favorite.”
Twilight laughed even harder at my appearance. I smirked and took some cake in my hoof and smeared it on her cheek. I started laughing in turn and so did she.
“WHOO HOO! FOOD FIGHT!” Pinkie declared, coming flying at the cake.
Raiden cried, “LAUNCH SWARM MISSILE TO INTERCEPT!”
Suddenly Shining Armor threw Swarm at Pinkie Pie and the two collided in the air before Pinkie could get at the cake. They both landed on the ground and Pinkie looked a little disappointed.
“Awwww, but-”
“No, Pinkie,” Swarm said. “We’d rather eat the cake, not have it thrown all over the place.”
I laughed and looked at the cake, I noticed another slice had been cut, two in fact. I saw crumbs leading under the tablecloth and looked under there. There was Celestia, with both slices of cake. She looked at me, gave me a look and said, “You, did not see anything.”
“Yes ma’am,” I saluted, coming back from under the table and letting everypony else have at the cake. Swarm was feeding Pinkie a piece, who concluded the cake was too “tasteriffic” to be used as ammunition. And I saw Tailspin taking a couple of pieces. One for Scootaloo, obviously, and one for... Grandma?
So, you finally conceded, huh Grandma? Now I know how to get extra gingerbreads delivered during hearth’s warming.
As the cake gorging went on Twilight mingled with the guests a little. I found myself at a table, then I saw Luna coming to sit beside me. “A fine gathering this has been, Private Eye.”
I smiled at her, “You can thank your sister, she did a lot of the work.” I then said, “Thanks for the good night by the way.”
“It is kind of you to say such things,” she said, smiling in turn. “I only wish there was more I can do.”
I reached into my coat jacket and pulled out Nocturne’s medallion. I held it before her in my hoof. “You slipped this into my pockets during the battle. I never got to return it what with everything that’s going on.”
She touched her hoof to mine and pushed it towards me. “Keep it, it is technically your heirloom anyways. Nocturne would want his descendant to be able to protect the ones he loves.”
I put the medallion in my jacket and smiled, “Thanks Luna, you really are a good friend.”
She put a hoof on my cheek and said, “Twilight, is truly a lucky mare. I only hope, that you both will spend your mortal lives in love.”
“Bet on it,” I nodded.
Luna smiled and went to join the rest of the guests. It was, good to see her smile like that. Luna spent a lot of time recovering these few years. It’s good to see that she’s reached the point where she can smile again.
I looked on as the cake was almost completely gone. I then went up to the stage to find Vinyl eating her cake as it was spinning on a record. How she managed to do so is a mystery I’ll file away in the Pinkie section of my brain.
She smiled as everypony finished their cake. “Whaddya say we top this all off with a classic?”
“Toss me the mic,” I smirked. “It’s time we took this one home!”
Vinyl tossed the mic to me as the last song began. I held it in my magic and sang,
Love is in bloom!
A beautiful bride-
I saw Twilight teleport to my side and add,
A handsome groom!
Two hearts, become as one!
We both sang together
A bond, cannot be undone because,
Everypony cheered loudly as we sang surprisingly well together.
Love is in bloom!
A beautiful bride, handsome groom!
We said love is in bloom!
We’re starting a life, and making room
For us....
Vinyl continued the beat as a carriage rolled up to the party. Twilight and I walked toward it, as the parted crowd, together singing to ourselves as we made for the carriage. I saw Dad and Tailspin on my side and I went to them.
Tailspin cheered, “You did it bro! Twilight’s my big sis now!”
“This doesn't mean you can charm her into making me raise your allowance, bucko!” I quipped, rubbing his mane.
Dad laughed and said, “Enjoy your honeymoon, my son, I’ll look after Tailspin while you are away.”
I smiled and hugged both of them. I saw behind them Grandma was just smiling at me. I gave a wave and she waved in turn. Grandma was never one for the spotlight. She got her wish tonight, to see us before I started this new chapter in my life.
I turned around as Twilight’s parents said words only meant for them. She hugged them both along with her brother and sister in law. She kissed Skyla on the forehead, eliciting a giggle from the filly.
Finally, Spike walked up to both of us. He said, “I’m glad to see a family come together like this.”
Twilight and I looked at each other, and I told him, “Spike, thanks for sticking with us.”
“Hey, anything for you guys,” Spike smiled wide.
Twilight and I hugged the dragon as Rarity walked up to us. She smiled and wiped her eyes with a hoof. “I’m so happy for you both, I promise to attend to Spike while you two are enjoying your honeymoon.”
“Thanks Rarity,” Twilight smiled.
“GROUP HUG!!!” Pinkie cried as the other four elements joined in hugging us. We all laughed as we righted ourselves. After they let us go, Twilight and I walked into the carriage. I closed the door behind me and watched as Twilight collected her bouquet.
I smirked and whispered something into her ear. She smiled and moved to stick her head out the window. She held the bouquet in her magic and the bridesmaids came like timberwolves to a piece of meat. Twilight waited a bit, calculating her trajectory, and threw it.
The bouquet soared over the crowd, dodging two grabs by Rarity who barely missed. The bouquet dodged several bridesmaids, helped a little by Twilight’s magic. Before it finally plopped itself into Fluttershy’s hooves.
She looked at Twilight and I as we stuck our heads out the window. I yelled at Big Mac, “You promised me that I’d be an Alicorent! I think that’s a good candidate for a mother right there big guy!”
Fluttershy blushed brightly, Big Mac as well. But the pair smiled and simply held one another. Aww yeah, I was getting that Alicorn Child real soon.
Twilight and I went back into the carriage after waving goodbye to everypony. Twilight and I sat in the carriage, she put her head on my shoulder and said, “So, our new life begins.”
“I can’t think of anypony I’d rather spend it with,” I said, nuzzling Twilight lovingly.
A year ago, I would never have dreamed of all this. Every case, every battle, every villain, it felt like it was all leading to this. This moment when I would be lying against this mare, riding towards our honeymoon.
I felt, there are no words to really describe how I felt. I just knew, right here and now, the Private Eye of old was long gone. The cynical and hopeless detective who lived his life only day by day. Now, I looked forward.
I saw a great life, it won’t be an easy one. But then again, what life is worth living if it’s easy? I was going to be facing some new challenges in my life. Somethings I still wonder if I’m prepared for.
I knew now though, that they weren’t so terrifying...
