Meta Sketch is a very special pony. His cutie mark can change. This is his story.
Other ponies don’t think much of me at first, just another artist, they think. Then I work on a new piece, and they realize how special I am. Some ponies are fascinated, others are scared, but when you consider my origins, it makes perfect sense. My cutie mark changes. Sort of. Whatever piece I'm working on is my cutie mark. Landscape? Cutie mark! Still life? Cutie mark! Portrait? Cutie Mark! It's always fun when I make self-portraits... haha! Now, you’re probably wondering how this is possible… well, it’s quite simple, really, but what’s the fun in just telling you the answer? No, I think telling you the story would be much more interesting… and so we begin…
JK, seriously, though, this story starts with my Mom. Her name is Poly Sketch. She's a unicorn, and her special talent is drawing. She mostly does illustrations, but sometimes she'll delve into other things. She grew up in Ponyville, but when she was old enough, she moved to Canterlot. She opened a small art studio, and took commissions as well as selling other various pieces. With hard work and determination, she set up a place for herself in Canterlot, and she was extremely happy... for a while.
Over time, she started to get lonely. There were plenty of stallions around, but she was a small town girl at heart, and all of those big city stallions just didn't seem to understand her on a level she felt necessary. Then, one day a new stallion came trotting into her studio, intrigued by the pieces on display out front. His name was Meta Break, and she immediately knew he was different. Largely because of his unique cutie mark. Like a broken wall with black behind it. You could look at it and know exactly what it meant- he was the type of pony to break walls. Whether they be physical, mental, or meta-physical (i.e. the 4th wall) so she immediately went up to ask him if he'd like a tour. Or so she says. He always said she took over half an hour to actually approach him. But that's beside the point. When he looked at her, he could tell she was different, too. Just not as obviously.
"Uh... sure... that would be nice..." he told her, trying to figure out just how she was different.
"Alright then! Um... my name is Poly Sketch, by the way..." she giggled. As he looked at her, she had the strangest urge to show him a side of her she hadn't displayed since she was a filly! It was still in there, deep down, but she never let anyone see it, lest they think that she was too immature to be on her own.
"Oh! Um... my name is... uh... Meta Break...! Hehe..." he stuttered, clearly nervous, though the reason why was far from clear.
"Nice to meet you... um... this way..." she told him, blushing as their eyes locked. Then, she realized, "Meta Break... like breaking the 4th wall?"
"Uh... sort of... I'm more into the whole 'change' aspect. Breaking down barriers so that change can happen. I, uh... I've always liked the idea of being a diplomat, and well... cutie marks, you know... hehe..." he answered, clearly extremely nervous, though she had no idea why. Or maybe she did...
"I, um... I'm just going to be blunt with you... or else we'll probably be super awkward for the rest of the day or something... um... do you... like me? Like, in any way, shape, or form? Like, possibly interested, but not sure how interested?" she finally blurted out.
"I... uh... yeah, a little... honestly, more than anything I'd like to get to know you better. I'm good at spotting differences... ponies who don't quite fit in, and I can tell you're one of them, but I can't figure out how, and it's killing me."
"Oh, really? Well, I would've thought the accent to be a dead give away!" she giggled.
"... Well now I feel stupid." he said, face-hoofing.
At that, she giggled and put a hoof around him, saying, "Well, everypony feels stupid sometimes. I bet even the Princesses have their moments!"
"Hehe, yeah. I guess you're right... so, um... how about that tour?"
"... I, um... don't have much to tour... what you see is pretty much what you get. Other than the back room, where I keep my WIPs and my snooze couch..."
"Your snooze couch?"
"Oh, um... sometimes I'll wind up staying late, working, and when I get tired, I'll just crash on the couch and sleep for a few hours. So, it's the couch where I do some snoozing, ergo, snooze couch..."
"Huh... that actually makes a lot of sense..." he said after a moment, then, looking her up and down again, he continued, "You actually seem like a pretty down-to-earth pony... especially for a unicorn in Canterlot! What's up with that?"
"Oh, well, um... I'm not actually from Canterlot, I'm from Ponyville. I moved to Canterlot a few years ago to try to become my own mare."
"Oh, that's cool." he said softly, "Independence... woot." he teased.
"Oh, haha, very funny, Mr-"
dingalingaling
"Oh, customers! I'll get back to you, but every bit counts in this business!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Of course, the two of them eventually went on a date, and then another, and another. It wasn't until they'd been seeing one another for a month, however, that Meta learned just how different Poly was.
"Oh my word, Meta, it was so weird! I mean, seriously, when I first used the bathroom this morning, it was yellow, but then, I used it a few hours later, hadn't had anything to drink, and it was clear! I'm telling you, it just doesn't make any sense!"
"Um... Poly... why are you telling me this?"
"Because it's weird, and- wait... oh... hehe... sorry... filter fail... I'm usually better about that..." she answered, clearly embarrassed, and suddenly seeming a bit nervous.
"Poly? What's wrong? You can tell me. I swear I won't tell anypony if you don't want me to." he said to her, laying his hoof on hers.
"Meta... I... I don't think like other ponies do. As a filly, all the other foals seemed to know exactly what was expected of them, without even being told, but... I didn't. I had to piece things together from what I was told, and half the time I still didn't have an answer. I have harder time focusing on things for long periods of time, which is why I'll work on one piece for 30 minutes and then turn to another piece, even if I'm almost done with the first one. It's the only way for me to keep working without getting constantly distracted by every little thing. I hate staring ponies in the eyes, though I can do it for a little bit if necessary. I just... I'm so different from everypony... sometimes I even talk about things that nopony wants to hear about! I just don't know what's wrong with me!" As she finished, she collapsed into him, letting him wrap his hooves around her protectively as they cuddled, though for comfort instead of the usual pleasure.
"It's okay, Poly. There's nothing wrong with you. You are you, and there's nopony I'd rather you be."
She looked up at him with tears in her eyes, "Meta?" she whispered, "I think I love you..."
He looked down at her, smiled, and whispered back, "I think I love you, too..."
Weeks passed, and their love blossomed. With every passing moment, they became more and more sure of their love for one another, but then...
"Meta... I have to go away for a while..."
"What? Why?" he exclaimed.
"My Mom is really sick, and you've never met a pony who hates hospitals more than her! If Ponyville had an herbalist, she'd probably go there, but the best we've got is Granny Smith's apple-based recipes, and they may help with some things, but I don't think she's got anything that'll help my Mom. I have to go home and help take care of her, make sure she comes out alright."
"Oh, Poly... I love you... hey! What if I came with you?" he exclaimed excitedly.
"Oh, Meta! That would be wonderful, but I need you here!"
"What?"
"Nopony else knows me like you do, you know my work almost as well as I do, and you're the most qualified to run the studio while I'm away."
"What? Me, run the studio? But I'm not an art pony! I'm a diplomat pony!"
"I know, but even the best art ponies wouldn't understand my art the way you do. There are some pieces that another art pony might feel is worth only a few bits, but to me is worth at least 100, and there are others that might inspire somepony to pay 100 bits, when all I ask for it is 10. You know the value I place in these works, and I trust that you will sell them for what they're worth, not for what they're priced."
"Oh, Poly..." he sighed, caressing her cheek with his hoof. "I'll do it... but don't be mad if you come back and find I totally botched it, because you're the one who's asking me to do this!"
She laughed and said, "That seems fair enough. Au revoir, mi amore!" and kissed him on the cheek before running to catch the train to Ponyville.
And so, Poly Sketch went to Ponyville to take care of her Mom, and Meta Break stayed in Canterlot to watch the studio. The following months were wrought with letters...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Meta,
My Mom is as stubborn as expected! Which is almost a relief seeing as how that means I was able to plan for it! It feels strange to be back in Ponyville after all these years, and what is strangest of all is all the ponies that still remember me... why, just today I went to a place called Sugar Cube Corner, and it's run by one of my old classmates and her fiance! Chiffon Swirl is such a wonderful mare, and her cupcakes are simply divine! Perhaps, after all of this is over, we could come back here sometime together and I could show you around! Honestly, if it wasn't for the medical expenses, I would've loved for you to come. The more I think about it, the more I wish I'd said yes... oh, how I miss you! I just know Mom would love you! How is everything going at the studio? Any sales? Has "Bubbles" sold yet? You know how curious I am about that one! Oh, I love you! Sincerely, Poly Sketch
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Poly,
Well, you sure seem excited? Or maybe you're nervous? Nerv-cited? Oh, Poly, all of that sounds wonderful, and I'd love to meet your Mom. As for the studio, some upstart named "Fancy Pants" came in here, offering to buy the place out! I politely declined, and shooed him away. As for "Bubbles"... nothing yet. The stupid upstart was the only person to come in today. Of course, I love you, too... I got bored, so I actually wrote something for you...
Pink bubbles fly, Life passes by, I have nothing to do, When I'm without you, I hope you're home soon, I'll get you a balloon, We'll go out to dinner, Call me a winner, Because I'll finally be with you.
With all my heart, Meta Break
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Meta,
That... that's just... oh, I wanna hug you so much! I love you! I suppose it is a bit silly to expect "Bubbles" to have sold so soon... but do let me know if it does sell! Also, I've had an idea for a new picture! This one aught to turn some heads! I'll make cutie marks that resemble their ponies! Like Chiffon, her cutie mark is 3 cupcakes, so I'll have a blue cupcake wrapper (that's her coat color) with swirly pink icing (like her mane!) and a little apron on top instead of the cherry! I just know it'll be a hit! Also, Mom is doing as well as can be expected, thanks for asking. ;)
Love, Poly
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Poly,
Woops... I'm really sorry about that... and, guess what? "Bubbles" sold! Already! A young stallion came in here, looking for a gift for his special somepony, and when he saw it, he said it was just perfect for her! He seemed vaguely familiar, though, I wonder why? That idea sounds amazing, by the way... I wonder if I could commission a piece? ;) Wait... you were teasing me about not asking about your Mom, weren't you? Darnit! Now I feel silly... I'll leave it in anyways because I know it'll make you laugh, and if your Mom is as stubborn as she sounds, you could probably use the comic relief. Well, I hope she gets well soon, so you can come home and we can cuddle! I miss your cuddles...
Sincerely, Meta
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Meta,
He seemed familiar, hm? Could it have been that "upstart" you mentioned before? If he's as snobbish as he sounds, I certainly wouldn't put it past him... and I couldn't agree more with the cuddles! The misunderstanding was truly a joy, and Mom especially loved it... ;) As for the piece... we'll see. If you're a good boy, perhaps...
Love and kisses, Poly
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Poly,
No, it wasn't that upstart Fancy Pants. Fancy Pants has crowns for a cutie mark, this young stallion had a shield with a star inside it. Also, REALLY. You shared that with your Mom? Not cool... :C Also, "Bubbles" went for 120 bits! He really wanted it, bad! So I brought the price down a bit. I hope you don't mind!
Love, Meta
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Meta,
A shield with a star in it? That sounds like the rumored boyfriend of Princess Cadence! Nopony's been sure if they were a couple or not! If he bought "Bubbles" for his special somepony, and she gets seen with it, it'll be confirmed that they're an item! This is so exciting! I'm perfectly fine with the price coming down, especially if it's true! Oh, by the way, I just found out that a couple of my old classmates got married! Bright Mac and Pear Butter! I never would've guessed they were interested in each other, the way their families hate each other, but looking back, there were so many signs! Oh! I wish you could meet everypony! Another time perhaps... oh! I've run out of time to write today. Mom has to go to the doctor... love you!
Sincerely, Poly
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Poly,
That... that's just... wow. I'll be keeping a closer eye on the tabloids from now on! Also, the marriage thing... is Pear Butter part of the pear family? I hear they're opening up a place in Vanhoover, and they're gonna ship their products all over Equestria. (I love pears... ;* hehe...) Anyways, I would love to meet everypony. Hope everything goes well!
XOXO, Meta
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Meta,
Coming home. Mom... I... I'll tell you when I get home. I can't wait to see you again.
"Shh... Shh... It's okay, Poly, it's okay... it'll be alright..."
"I... I...ohh...." Poly called, sobbing.
She'd been back for almost a week now, and she was still sobbing about the passing of her mother. Meta just didn't understand it... but then, he'd never been particularly close to his mother, and in fact, he couldn't think of anything better than her passing. Except, well, maybe...
"Poly? I know we haven't been together very long, and this probably isn't the best time to ask this, but I'm starting to get desperate for ways to make you feel better, so now is as good a time as any..."
"Meta, I just... I just need some time to be sad, okay? It's how I deal with things... I actually kind of feel like making a new piece..."
"Wha- does that mean you're feeling a little better?"
"No, but it might help to put my feelings down in art. Might sell it, might not, depending on how I feel about it later. Could I just have some time alone?"
"I... alright. Don't go and try to kill yourself, though! I'd be devastated!"
Poly giggled, though she was still clearly upset, "I won't. I'm not that upset. I just feel kind of... hollow... and I need time to figure out how much space I need to fill..." she finished, adding in a wink.
"Okay... I'll go see if anypony needs some marriage counseling..."
"Okay-wait, what?"
"Oh, um... a wife came in here while you were away, angry with her husband. I offered her some advice, and the next day the two of them came in, saying that my advice had pretty much fixed their marriage... so, I've been thinking of becoming a marriage counselor. Yay, diplomacy!" he answered, somewhat timidly.
"That... that sounds amazing. I mean, you'll finally have a chance to start paying some of the bills!" She teased.
"Feeling better, are we?"
"I... hehe, yeah, a little..." then, picking up the broom, swatted him on the head, "Meanie."
"Wha? What do you mean, 'meanie'?" he exclaimed, his only answer being a small smile and a wink, before she went into the back room to work. "Huh... the silly filly is definitely starting to feel better... I guess she really does just need some time... but I'm starting to get hungry, and while counseling might help, it'll only help so much... I hope she feels better soon..."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A few hours later, Poly finally left the back room, nearly finished with her self-expression, to get something to eat, only to find a table set for two.
"What the hay is going on here?"
"What else, but a romantic dinner for two?" came a voice in that cliche french accent we all know and love.
"Meta? What are you doing?" she giggled, as he came out of the shadows, wearing a silly fake mustache and a bow tie, with his mane slicked back all fancy.
"I ahm being romantic, of course! For my one and only love, Poh-lee" he answered, laying the accent on thick, making himself look that much sillier. Until Poly burst out laughing. "Hahve I dohne sahmthing wrohng, my love?"
"No! No! It's just... you sound and look so silly! I can't take you seriously! And honestly, "Poh-lee"? Really? You make my name sound so silly! I just... I can't take you seriously at all!" she cried out, laughing all the while.
"Hohoho! I have sohcceeded in my tahsk! Hohoho!"
"BAHAHAHA...!" she called out, rolling on the floor, before he came over, taking off the mustache and mussing his mane, and helped her back on her hooves.
"I knew I could do it, if I just did it right." he smiled at her, now speaking normally.
"I'm glad. And I really do feel so much better. I don't think I'll ever be able to fill the hole perfectly, but this has certainly helped. You're absolutely amazing. I don't know what I would've done without you!" she told him, with a hug.
"I'm just glad you're feeling better! Now, I'd really rather not let this marvelous dinner go to waste... shall we?"
"We shall!"
And so, they spent the rest of the evening in peace and quiet, simply enjoying one another's company. Or so they claim... if you ask me, I doubt that's all they did... two ponies, just sitting there, eating, staring at each other? For a whole evening? No way. But that's what they claim, and no amount of questioning has changed their answer.
"Shining Armor? I wonder who that could be?" she posed aloud, going and sitting down for some tea, as she continued to ponder. Then something occurred to her. "Meta?" she called, only to hear some stumbling and crashing before...
"Yes? Did you need something? More paint? New brush? Hayburger?" he answered excitedly.
"While I was away, you said a young stallion came in and bought "Bubbles" for his special somepony... was his name Shining Armor, by any chance?"
"Um... yeah, actually, now that you mention it, that sounds right..."
"Well, he's sent me something!"
"What? What is it?" he asked, coming closer.
"I don't know, I haven't opened it yet."
"Well, what are you waiting for? Open it already!"
She giggled before opening it, and out came a letter... and two golden tickets. "Hm? What are these? They... look familiar... maybe the letter will explain..." she pondered, before turning to the letter. ___________________________________________________________________________________ | | | | | Dear Poly Sketch, | | My special somepony was extremely delighted with the gift I gave her... a | | piece of yours called "Bubbles". When I told her that I got it from a small shop | | that most ponies are largely unfamiliar with, she asked what your name was. | | At the time, I didn't understand why, but I looked into it, and gave her your | | name. Now, I understand. She was so thrilled with your work that she felt you | | deserved a chance to mingle with potential customers and investors alike. She| | has procured for you two tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala, one for you, and| | one for a +1 of your choice. I do hope we get the chance to see you there, as | | we intend to make our relationship known at the Gala. Yes, it's a secret. I have | | a feeling you know who she is. | | Enjoy, | | Shining Armor | |__________________________________________________________________________________|
"The... the... the... the..." Poly stuttered, unable to finish her sentence from sheer shock.
"The what now? What the hay is 'The Grand Galloping Gala'?" asked Meta.
"You don't know about The Grand Galloping Gala?" Poly exclaimed, "Why, it's only the biggest social event of the year! The connections I could make there would be invaluable! Think of the attention, the customer acquisition, the sales! This is quite possibly the biggest opportunity of my career!"
"Um... okay... but isn't 'social event' another way of saying party? A really fancy party? What would you wear? How will you pay for it?"
Poly blanched. "Oh... oh, you're right! I don't have anything nearly good enough for an event of this caliber! Then there's my +1! What am I going to do? Oh!" She cried out.
"Who were you thinking of taking?"
"Oh... um... well... I would've actually thought that quite obvious. You... assuming you were willing to come, of course. I would never make you go if you didn't want to." she answered, somewhat sheepishly.
"Well, I actually already have a tux, and for stallions, practically any tux will work for practically any fancy party. It's rare that you need a different tux. Plus, I wouldn't mind at all. As long as I'm with you." he smiled.
"That doesn't solve the issue of my dress, though it certainly alleviates some of the pressure. To get a dress suitable for the Grand Galloping Gala, it would cost so many bits! I likely would have to sell everything in order to both get the dress and keep the store running! And I would require those pieces in order to draw in new customers!"
"Sounds like you're stuck between a rock and a hard place, but don't worry. We have plenty of time. Based on what it says on the tickets, we have at least a couple of months before you'll need a dress. We'll figure it out." he told her, wrapping his hooves around her comfortingly.
"Heh... I guess you're right. We still have time. I just hope it's enough time..." she sniffled, because she'd been about ready to cry.
"Now... how about you work on some of your pieces? Best get them done sooner rather than later, so that they're ready to sell, and we can make that many more bits for your dress!"
"Good idea. Right after I finish my tea!" she giggled.
"Thank you, and have a wonderful day!" Poly called after her latest customer. "Ah... finally! Time for lunch! Ooh, I can't wait to tell Meta the news!" she squealed.
~~~~~~~~~~~
"Alright, see you next week, same time! And don't forget, breathe!" Meta called after his last clients of the morning. "Alright... next up, lunch! Oh, I can't wait to tell Poly the news!" he quietly exclaimed.
~~~~~~~~~~~
"Meta! Oh, I have something to tell you! Something amazing!"
"Oh, really? Well, I have some news for you, too!"
"Oh? Well then, you first!"
"No, fillies first!"
"Hey! I said you first!"
"You first!"
"No, you!"
"How about we just say it at the same time?"
"No- oh, yeah, I guess that works." she giggled.
"One... two... three!"
"I have enough money to pay foryour/mydress!"
"Wait, what?" she exclaimed. "Just how much are you earning?"
"I just got a new couple, and apparently I'm earning quite the reputation, so they offered me 3 times as many bits as I would normally get if I could help them, and I did, so, yeah. What about you? How are you suddenly able to afford a new dress suddenly?"
"A designer came into the shop today and offered to make me a dress for half the price in exchange for a custom piece! I already had half the price saved, so, yeah! Wait... what are we going to do with the excess money, now?"
"Oh, don't worry... I have an idea..."
"Already?"
"Yep! If it's not for your dress, I know exactly what I want it for."
"Well, alright then. It's your money, you can do with it what you want."
"Alright... so, what's for lunch?"
She giggled.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you have it ready, yet?
Almost. I just need one more gem. The centerpiece. Do you have what I need?
As it just so happens, I do. I recently got a big tip, so this should cover it. Is it enough?
Plenty. Once she sees this, there's no way she'll be able to resist you. Any mare would say yes.
Good. I don't want anything to go wrong. This has to be perfect.
"Poly, if you don't hurry, the carriage will go on without us, and we'll have to walk! Do you want to walk all the way to the castle?" Meta called, shifting his shoulders as his tux was a bit tight... he must've gained a few pounds since he last wore it.
"Coming, coming! Ack, my mane! Alright, that's better. Here I come!" she called, before stepping out into Meta's sight.
"Whoa... Poly, you look... amazing... I... I don't know what to say..."
"Say nothing, unless it's praising my artistic skills in front of potential customers!" she teased.
"Oh, haha. Come on, let's go." he responded, motioning towards the carriage. As he got in, something fell from his pocket.
"Hm? Oh, Meta! You dropped something!" Poly said, levitating the small box into reach. "Hm? This looks like a jewelry box... Meta?"
"Oh, um... it's... a, uh... surprise..." he nervously coughed out, quickly taking the box from her.
"Meta, what are you planning?" she smiled, suspicious.
"If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise, now would it?" he smiled back.
"Fine. Now, I have 3 pieces in particular that I want to talk about..." she began, as they went off to the Gala.
~~~~~~~~~~~
"Welcome, fillies and gentlecolts, to the Grand Galloping Gala!" Princess Celestia announced.
"Well, I'm sure this evening will be thoroughly entertaining. What about you, dear?" Meta asked, smiling suspiciously.
"Hm... well, I'm sure it will turn out to be profitable, at the very least. Entertaining has yet to be seen. And why are you looking at me like that?"
"Like what? I'm just happy to be here with the mare I love."
"Hm... I've got my eye on you, mister." She giggled.
Then, a mare approached, asking, "Who are you?"
"My name is Poly Sketch. I'm an artist." she responded, with a smile.
"How did you get tickets to the Gala?"
"I sold a piece to a stallion with sway."
"And who might that stallion be?"
"Shining Armor. I hear he plans on making an announcement tonight."
"Indeed? I heard that Princess Cadence intends to make an announcement as well... how odd."
"Perhaps not as odd as you might think, if you think about it enough."
"I'll leave you two to chat, while I go strike up conversations elsewhere, alright, dear?" Meta asked.
"Of course, Meta, you know what to do!" she told him, and he was off.
~~~~~~~~~~
That was close, earlier... too close. Thankfully, they were at the Gala now, and he was now free to go get everything ready. He'd made connections over the past few months, connections that would allow him to make everything just perfect. Everything had to be perfect. He couldn't bear to think what would happen if things weren't perfect.They had to be perfect.
Later that evening...
"Meta, where are you? Meta, if you don't answer me I will undo that cloaking spell, so help me!"
"Boo."
"WHAAA. META! UGH. STALLIONS. Where in Equestria have you been?"
"Were you really going to undo the cloaking spell?"
"That's not an answer... but, possibly. If I got upset enough."
"Well then, I guess it's a good thing I found you when I did. Come with me."
"Meta, I- hey!" she called out, as he began to pull her along.
"Over here, silly filly. I've prepared something just for you."
"Meta, what could you possibly- whoa. Meta, this is..."
They had gone out into the garden, and little dots of light floated all over the place, lighting up the garden just enough to make it feel enchanted. Across the way, a picnic blanket had been set up, with a basket to boot, and a slender pony stood off to the side, with a canvas and easel.
"Come." Meta whispered, guiding her to the blanket, where they sat down.
"Meta, this is-"
"Shh. Here." he told her, pulling two gourmet hayburgers, fries, and a bottle of cider from the basket. "Eat. You must be starving."
"I... I guess I am. I didn't even think about how hungry I was... wow... I..."
"Eat. Enjoy. Be happy."
"Alright." she consented, enjoying the meal, and the scenery. Giggling when a rabbit tried to pick a fight with a flamingo. The Mare in the Moon seemed to smile down on them during this moment of tranquility. "Meta... it's so beautiful tonight. I feel inspired. I wish I had my supplies... I want to take down this moment for all eternity, but I'm scared I'll forget it before we get home."
"No need, Poly. That's why he's here. To record what's happening. To record what's about to happen."
"What do you mean, what's about to happen?"
Meta Break pulled the box out of his pocket, "Remember this, from earlier? Well, it's time you find out what's in it." He knelt down, and opened the box, revealing a ring. An engagement ring. "Poly, I can't imagine living without you. I would be honored if you would be my wife."
"Meta... I... I... I love you!" she exclaimed, attacking him with a hug. "Of course I'll marry you! Oh!" she cried, levitating the ring into place, just as cheering erupted inside.
"What the?"
"Oh, I was going to tell you, Shining Armor found me and said that he was going to make his announcement soon, but you didn't let me, and then I got distracted. I'm guessing that everypony just found out that Princess Cadence has a boyfriend."
"Oh. Alright then. You wanna go back in?"
"No. I wanna stay right here, forever." she sighed.
"We can't stay here forever, we'll never get married!" he teased.
She giggled, answering, "You know what I mean."
So, that's what they did. A while later, the artist came over with the finished product.
"I love it. Oh, Meta. Tonight has been just perfect. In fact, I think it was the best night ever."
"Alright. That's another 40 bits towards the wedding!" Poly quietly exclaimed, clearly excited.
Meta chuckled before saying, "We've still got a long ways to go, Poly. Weddings aren't cheap. If I'd realized just how much it would be, I would've raised my prices months ago." he smiled at her, before kissing her cheek.
"I know, but a bit saved is a bit earned, and every bit counts! Oh! We should start figuring out who to invite! I'll definitely invite the Cakes... oh, and Bright Mac and Pear Butter simply have to come! I wonder if Mayor Mare would like to attend... oh, and we really should invite Shining Armor and Princess Cadence! I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't come, but it would be nice, and certainly polite! What do you think, dear?"
"Uh... maybe we should keep the guest list small? Keep things intimate, you know. Too many ponies could get overwhelming..." he answered, with a nervous edge to his voice.
"Meta, are you nervous? Is something wrong? You don't want to break it off, do you? 'Cause if you do, I swear-"
"No, no, that's not it! I just..." he sighed... "You have so many friends and ponies that care about you enough to attend. I don't have anypony. My mom wouldn't care if she were bit by a love bug, I never knew my dad, and my siblings take after Mom. Before I met you, I didn't know anypony. Not really, anyways. I knew a few names, but that was it. Everypony I know, I know because of you. If you invite a lot of ponies, they're all going to be confused and probably wind up pitying me for not knowing anypony that wanted to come to my wedding. I'm sorry. I know this is a big occasion and you want to share it with everypony you care about, but I just..."
"Hey, it's okay. I didn't realize. Life must've been pretty rough growing up. Come to think of it, you never really told me much about your life before we met. How did that happen? Meta, if you want to talk about it, we can close up shop for a bit and just talk. I'm here for you, no matter what. Okay?" she told him, putting a hoof around him.
He smiled, "It's okay. I'd really rather try to forget all about that time. It really wasn't that great. Besides, we can't afford to close up shop. We have a wedding to pay for. Plus, I have an appointment in ten minutes. Even if I wanted to, we couldn't take the time to talk. Well, I should get to the office before my clients arrive. Arriving after them certainly wouldn't look good!" he chuckled, relieved to get off of the topic of his past, and glad that Poly was willing to scale down. It also meant the wedding might not cost as much as most, seeing as how they wouldn't have very many ponies attending. He was glad for that, and gave her a hug before heading off to his office to meet his next clients. Now he just had to focus on making ponies happy, and he shouldn't have to worry about Poly asking him about his past ever again. It was finally out of the way.
The arches were laden with flowers and vines, their perfume laid thick in the air, intoxicating with their beauty. She couldn't wait to finally do this. To be joined with the stallion she loved. As she peeked from her place, she could see everypony, waiting for the ceremony to begin. She smiled as he trotted into place, his face slightly red- he was nervous. But a good nervous. He didn't want anything to go wrong. It was their wedding day. If something went wrong... that would be horrible. So she refused to think about it. Then...
"Are you ready, dear?" he asked.
"What about the cue, dad?"
"We want to be ready, don't we?" he chuckled.
"Alright," she giggled. "Don't make any jokes, though. I shouldn't be giggling as I walk down the aisle!"
"Alright, darling. I'm just so happy for you. What was his name again?"
"Dad! I told you, no jokes!" she giggled, shoulder-bumping him.
"Alright, alright." he answered, then, the music began to play. "Oh! That's our cue!"
The two walked down the aisle, and Meta couldn't help but be entranced. He always told me, "The way her hair fell over her shoulder, like a golden waterfall. Oh, and the white dress practically sparkled against her coat, the white and pink mingling beautifully. Oh, and her veil... that little tiara looked so cute on her. I should really make her wear it again sometime... but I just couldn't stop staring. The priest actually elbowed me, because I was starting to drool!"
The music ended, and the priest began, "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Poly Sketch, and Meta Break. Any who wish to oppose, speak now, or forever hold your peace."
You all know how that goes, I'm sure, so I'll skip the boring stuff. They said their "I do's" and kissed and lived happily ever after blah blah blah, then the reception!
"Oh, Meta, Poly, I'm so happy for you two. Poly, I absolutely loved your dress. I hope that some day, I can have a wedding as beautiful as this."
"Thank you." they said in unison, before laughing.
"And I'm sure you will, Princess, I'm sure you will." Poly said, winking, then glancing over at Shining Armor and back. Princess Cadence simply blushed.
"Oh, I don't know. It feels like that'd be an awful long ways off." she answered.
"You never know! When Poly and I first met, I never would have thought this possible! Yet, here we are!" Meta told her.
"Hey, sorry, Buttercup and Bright Mac were telling me about their latest discovery. What did I miss? Oh, congratulations! Sorry, I'm a bit frazzled. Guard training, y'know."
"Latest discovery? Is it some sort of special jam? Oh, I'm gonna go ask, ok?" Poly asked, excited, before hurrying over to the two.
"I should stay with her... y'know. And Shining, ask your girlfriend." Meta smiled, winking and Shining Armor before hurrying after Poly.
"What? Alright, fill me in." Shining Armor asked Cadence. She flushed red in response. ---- "Hey you two! Hugs!" Poly said to Buttercup and Bright Mac. "So, I hear you've made a discovery? Tell me all about it!"
"Hey, not without me!" Meta called as he walked over.
Buttercup giggled, "Well, it looks like we have more than one thing to celebrate. I hope you'll be able to come to Ponyville... for, well..." she blushed, so excited she seemed to be struggling to say it.
"For the baby shower!" Bright Mac blurted, before turning as red as an apple.
"Baby shower? You're pregnant?" Poly exclaimed. "Oh, Celestia! This is amazing! Of course! I can't think of anything better! When is it?"
"Well, we were originally going to do it next week, but when we got your invitation, we decided to push it until next month, so you could have time to get ready for it without worrying about your wedding as well."
"Next month? Uh, Poly, isn't that art show next month?" Meta asked.
"Oh, um. That's right... um..." She looked at Bright Mac and Buttercup, and decided. "It isn't important. I still make plenty of bits, and with your counselling business, we'll be fine. We don't need to go to the show. We'll be fine."
"If you say so, darling. I'm looking forward to seeing the two of you again. However, I believe it's time for my bride and I to get some time to ourselves..." he smiled.
Poly giggled, "Oh, yes. I think I agree. See y'all next month!" she called as the two walked away, nuzzling each other in preparation for that night...
When they got back to the room, they were excited. It was finally time. She giggled in anticipation. He simply smiled as they climbed into bed...
What, did you actually think I was going to talk about that? You guys are sickos. Why would my parents tell me about that? Instead I'll tell you a story. A different story. A story a friend told me. Alright? So, it takes place in this alternate dimension, with creatures called humans that walk on two legs. I know, weird, but still.
The story begins with a girl. I forgot her name, so, let's call her... Sunshine. She worked at her grandmother's coffee shop. They had a competitor right next door, and they were ruthless. The girl and her grandma didn't get a lot of business. It all went to their neighbors. Largely because it was 'cool' while the grandma's shop was old and super old-fashioned, and none of the kids in the town liked that. Plus, the neighbors sold really fancy coffee. Espressos and stuff, as well as using high quality beans that were organic and stuff.
Now, Sunshine was a good human. Very good. She just didn't get to express it much. So, she lived her life. Then, one day, she was taking out the trash, and found a young man sleeping outside behind the coffee shop. It was raining, and cold, so she felt sorry for him, and decided to give him a cup of coffee, and some chocolate covered coffee beans. What she didn't realize, though, was that he was actually an angel, in between missions. He resolved that her kindness couldn't go unpaid, and offered her a wish.
She didn't want it though.
Long story short, he was sweet and goofy and she started to fall for him, and he kept trying to get her to make a wish for something she actually wanted. Eventually she did. She wished for him to get what he wanted most. And he disappeared. Oh, and the other coffee place was secretly using the cheapest beans possible and saying they were organic and stuff so they could charge more. They got their comeuppance. The end.
