One hour later...

I had gotten the diamond necklace after answering several questions about the new member of the Royal Family and my future wife. I also had gotten a small tail-ring for Abigail, just so I could give her a little something new to make her feel welcome under my care. But, getting the jewelry was the easy part. The hard part was proposing, and I'm sure I'm not the only stallion who's had trouble asking that big four-word question. Anyway, I hid the necklace box behind my breastplate and walked around the Castle back into the garden. Mom was laying on her stomach in the grass, her muzzle buried in a large patch of roses and Sunflowers.

"Mom?", I asked her. She jumped a little and looked up at me.

"Sweetie?", she said.

"What are you doing?", I asked.

"Oh... it's just a little... fetish", Mom said, blushing a little, "I love the smell of flowers, and every chance I get... I kinda..."

"I get it", I said, "I won't tell anypony". Mom smiled as I laid down next to her, getting a few sniffs of the flowers as well. I too love the smell of flowers, and know you know where I get it from. "Where's Abigail?"

"I'm right here", another voice said. Abigail poked out of a hole in the dirt next to me, like a gopher. "Hi, Glitter".

"Hey, Abigail", I said, "What are you doing down there?"

"Finding some breakfast", Abigail said, "Ms. Celestia told me there's a lot of bugs buried under the garden, so I dug this hole. Oh, hold on". She disappeared back into the hole and returned, crunching loudly on a grasshopper as her head poked out of the hole and burping loudly afterwards. "'Scuze me".

"That's alright, Abigail", Mom said, "And make sure to refill that hole when you're finished. I don't want anything crawling out of there and destroying the garden". Abigail nodded and went back into her hole while Mom looked at me again. "So, Sweetie, what were you out for?" I blushed a little and looked around, making sure no one else was around, especially Zecora. Seeing nothing, I pulled out the necklace box and opened it, showing Mom the necklace.

"I'm gonna do it!", I said, "I'm gonna to make Zecora my Princess!" Mom smiled and pulled me into a big hug.

"That's great, Sweetie", Mom said, "My little colt is growing up so fast". She kissed my muzzle.

"Uh...", Abigail said, having just came back out of the dirt, her mouth full of katydids, "Something I miss?"

"Oh nothing", I said, "Just that I'm about to ask my marefriend to marry me". Abigail smiled and swallowed the katydids.

"Cool", she said.

"Oh, and I got a little something for you", I said. I pulled the tail-ring out of the box and tried to put it on her tail, but her tail was too bushy, and the ring wouldn't fit. Instead, I placed the ring on top of her head, which was a perfect fit. It looked like she was wearing a crown.

"There you go", I said, "Now you've got a crown".

"Ooh!", Abigail said, "It's so pretty and shiny! Thanks, Glitter!" She jumped out of the hole and hugged my neck. I smiled as I sat up and held her as she snuggled into my coat.

"You're welcome, Abigail", I said, "Welcome to the Royal Family".

"Aww", Mom said, "How cute, Sweetie. Who knows? Maybe she'll be a good assistant like Spike".

"Well, I guess", I said, "But I really don't have anything that needs assisting".

"I could be your bodyguard", Abigail said, "I have a good way of defending someone or something, if you know what I'm saying". She waved her tail up and down to signal what she was talking about.

"OK", I said, "I'll think about it. Right now, your my friend, OK?" Abigail smiled.

"OK", she said.

"Alright", Mom said, "How about I cook us some breakfast, hmm?"

"Sure", I said.

"What would you like, Sweetie?", Mom asked.

"I'm thinking... French toast, chocolate chip pancakes, over-easy eggs and hay bacon", I said, my stomach telling my brain what to do, "If it's not too much to ask".

"No no, it's alright", Mom said, "I always cook big breakfasts on Hearth's Warming. Usually, I let Cadence decided what we should have, but since this is your first time in the Tradition, I'm letting you do it". I nodded. "Alright, I'm going to go cook". She stood up and stretched a little. "Are you coming?"

"I think I'll sit out here for a while and play with Abigail", I said as Abigail hopped back into her hole.

"OK, Sweetheart", Mom said, "I'll come get you when it's ready". Mom walked back into the Castle as Abigail came back out, slurping a long worm like a noodle and swallowing it whole.

"'Love worms", she said under her breath, licking her paws.

"So, Abigail", I said, "Where you from?"

"Well", Abigail said, "I lived in the Everfree Forest for a long time with my brother, but he died after eating a red Poison Joke flower. I didn't want to live there anymore, so I snuck on some train and the Crystal Empire found me. Lived there for a while, and then Caddie found me and gave me to you".

"Oh, OK", I said, "Sorry for your loss".

"That's OK", Abigail said.

~~~~~~~~~~

Seven hours later...

After more time in the Castle, enjoying the Tradition, Caddie went home and I went back to Zecora's Hut with her. I proposed to her right before we left, and you'll never believe how much Zecora was surprised and happy she was, and I got the answer I wanted. Zecora was my fiancee, and we were gonna get married. The carriage pullers dropped Zecora off at her hut, but I had them drop me and Abigail off at the library so I could tell Twilight about my engagement. Being that the door was unlocked, I let myself in, seeing nothing but complete darkness.

"Surprise!!!!!!!!", a couple of voices yelled out as the light flashed on. Looking around, I saw it was a party being thrown for me, just like last time. Only instead of almost all of Ponyville, it was just Twilight and Spike. I smiled and placed Abigail on the floor.

"What's all this?", I asked playfully as we all sat down at the coffee table, which was full of party snacks.

"It's a party, duh", Spike said, sitting himself in my lap, "For you. You know, because you're getting married".

"You know already?", I asked.

"Yes", Twilight said, "Princess Celestia told us. You're getting married to Zecora, right?"

"Mm-hmm", I said.

"What history this will make", Twilight said, "The first ever zebra to ever become a royal. Congrats, Glitter".

"Thanks, Twilight", I said. I heard Abigail clear her throat. "Oh, right". I picked Abigail up and set her on table. "Twilight, Spike, this is Abigail, my skunk friend. Abigail, this is Twilight Sparkle and Spike".

"Hi", Abigail said.

"Well, aren't you a cutie?", Twilight said, petting Abigail's head, making her purr lightly.

"So, I want to speak to Twilight alone for a while", I said, "Spike, could you and Abigail go upstairs for a bit?"

"Sure", Spike said, "C'mon, Abigail. I'll show you my Power Ponies collection". Abigail smiled and followed Spike upstairs as I grabbed a cake pop from the table.

"Well, what is it?", Twilight asked, also grabbing one.

"Well, Zecora and I have decided to schedule the wedding the Saturday after next", I said, "She's very excited to tie our knot. Since the wedding is in such short time, do you think you and your friends could repeat your duties from Caddie's wedding to support mine?"

"Of course, Glitter", Twilight said, "Anything for a friend's special day. I'll let them know shortly".

"Thank you", I said, nuzzling the purple Unicorn, "That means a lot to me".

"So how was the Tradition?", Twilight asked.

"It was the best thing ever", I said, setting the cake pop stick on the table, "Never before have I had a perfect Hearth's Warming like I had last night. It was too bad you and Spike couldn't come".

"Don't say that, Glitter", Twilight said, "The Royal Family Tradition was between you and your family only. I'm just your best friend".

"I don't think of you as my best friend", I said, "To me, you're like my little sister. Now I see how Shining Armor feels to have such a sweet Unicorn for a sister".

"Glitter~~!", Twilight whined playfully, a hot blush forming on her face, "You're making me blush!" I smiled and kissed her cheek lightly.

"You know, I wonder how you would look with wings", I said. Twilight giggled.

"Spike said that too", she said, "He said I would look like a smaller and purple version of Princess Celestia".

"I'd say you'd look more like Caddie", I said. She giggled again. After spending two more hours with Twilight and Spike and enjoying the party, I was ready to get home to my future wife.

"Abigail", I said to Abigail, "Time to go". Abigail blushed a little.

"Uh, Glitter?", she said, "Can I stay the night with Ms. Sparkle? I wanna get to know Spike a little better".

"That's up to Twilight", I said.

"Of course you can, Abigail", Twilight said, "Spike's been wanting a friend to play with while at home for a while, so I think it would be good to have her stay for a while".

"Then, sure", I said, "Be good for Twilight, OK?" Abigail nodded happily and went upstairs. "Thanks for the party, Twilight. And please tell Spike I said thanks when he wakes up".

"Will do, Glitter", Twilight said, kissing my cheek.

"Oh, and can I take the rest of those cake pops with me?", I asked, "They're pretty good".

"Go ahead", Twilight said, using her magic to give them to me, "I'm trying to get Spike to lay off the sugar anyway. He get's more hyperactive than a foal after its birthday". I giggled and took the cake pops.

"Thank you", I said, "Alright, I'll see you later".

"You too, Glitter", Twilight said, "Goodbye".

After walking for about twenty minutes, I reached Zecora's Hut. I walked in and locked the door behind me. I saw Zecora sitting on the edge of her bed, combing her mane with the comb she made out of sticks and vines. I smiled and set the cake pops on the coffee table.

"Zecora, good news!", I said, "Twilight and her friends have agreed to support our wedding! Therefore, our wedding will be able to take place in two Saturdays!" Zecora looked at me with a confused look.

"Huh?", she said.

"What do you mean 'huh'?", I said, "We're gonna tie our knot!" Zecora then started speaking in her own foreign language. I couldn't understand it, so I decided to translate her. But before I could even light my horn, the back door opened, and Zecora had walked in. Wait, two Zecoras?

"Oh, Glitter", the Zecora that had walked in said, still not rhyming in the spirit of Hearth's Warming, "Did your pony friends agree to help support our wedding?"

"Uh... yeah...", I said, "Uh... why are there two of you?" Zecora chuckled.

"That's my younger twin sister, Uru", Zecora said, "She's here on one of her rare visits".

"Oh", I said, starting to feel kinda stupid, "Well, nice to meet you, Uru". Uru began speaking foreign again.

"Uru doesn't speak a pony's language", Zecora said, "I would recommend using that horn of your's to translate". I nodded and activated a Translator Spell on myself.

"Say again, Uru?", I asked.

"It's nice to meet you too, Mr. Glitter", Uru said. I smiled as she spotted the cake pops on the table. "Ooh! Cake!" She grabbed nearly half and quickly scared them down.

"She get's hyperactive", Zecora said, "Kind of like your pink pony friend".

"Oh, OK", I said, "Completely opposite twins, huh?"

"Pretty much", Zecora said, "Anyway, I'm so glad you and I are going to become one!" She kissed me full on the lips.

"Become one?", Uru asked, swallowing a huge mouthful of cake pop, "You mean married?"

"Yes", Zecora said, speaking her own language, "He proposed to me nearly four hours ago, and I said yes. He and I are to wedded on the eighth day of January". Uru huffed and rolled her eyes.

"Pig", she said.

"What did you just say to me?!", Zecora said.

"You heard me", Uru said.

"Oh, you little son of a-!", Zecora said.

"Whoa whoa whoa", I said, "Is there something I missed?"

"No no, hon", Zecora said, using the nickname we gave each other, "It's just a little bit of sibling rivalry nonsense. It's pretty common when you have a worthless identical twin sister with A.D.H.D".

"You had to bring my condition up, didn't you?!", Uru said, "Says the one that got tapeworm parasites in her bowels after eating dead crabgrass as a filly".

"Oh my...", Zecora said, turning toward me, "Glitter... I..."

"It's alright, Zecora", I said, "I'll pretend I didn't hear that".

"That was twenty years ago", Zecora said to her sister, "Plus, as I recall, we were in the middle of a famine, and I was desperate".

"So?", Uru said, "I'd rather have A.D.H.D. than have parasites".

"OK OK", I said, breaking up the two for a moment, "Do you two think you can get along for just a minute? I've got something to Zecora, alone". Uru rolled her eyes and walked out the back door.

"I greatly apologize for the behavior I showed toward Uru", Zecora said.

"It's alright, Zecora", I said, "Me and my little cousin don't get along either. I was just confused when Uru didn't know about our wedding because I though she was you". Zecora chuckled lightly.

"I'm sure you were", she said, "I was just outside collecting more wheatgrass and dirt to make those cookies you love so much, in the spirit of our soon-to-come marriage".

"That's great, hon", I said, "Anyway, there's something important I wanna talk about".

"I'm listening", Zecora said.'

"Well, you met my family last night during the Tradition. But, I don't know your family, besides your sister. So, don't you think I should meet your family before we get married?"

"Well, I do, but there are a small amount of complications with that request".

"What are they?"

"Well, my former home and my family's current home is in the middle of the Sahara Desert in Africa. First of all, it would take six hours to get there and to get back by either aerial carriage or train. Second of all, there is a very scarce amount of water and the temperature is very high. We zebras are able to withstand that, but no pony who has ever went made it back in perfect condition, and some never made it back at all".

"Oh... Well, I have a max-hydration spell I could put on myself".

"That will not do any good either. Our chief, Lord Takador, forbids any ponies with horns to use their magic. If they break that law, they will have their horn severed immediately with the mighty saw". Hearing that thought made me jump a little. If a horn is accidentally broken off, it can grow back within three days. But, if a horn is sawed off, it can never grow back, thus ending the host's magic flow immediately and eternally.

"Point taken. Then I guess that's out of the question". I hung my head a little, but then I saw Zecora raise up with an idea.

"Wait a minute", she said, "I could mix up a brew to solve that problem. It will be similar to your spell, but will work at the cost of your magic".

"OK", I said, "How long does it last?"

"Eight hours", Zecora said, "But, the results can be ended immediately if the taker urinates".

"Uh... OK", I said, "Sounds weird, but I'll do it. So, what does it do?"

"It increases the amount of time you can go without water", Zecora said, "Also, it prohibits you from feeling thirsty or even hot. Just one cup, and you will be able to meet my family". I smiled.

"Then let's mix it up, shall we?", I said. Zecora chuckled and walked over to her cauldron.

~~~~~~~~~~

Six hours later...

After Zecora mixed up the potion and gave it to me, I bought three train tickets for Zecora, Uru, and myself to the Sahara Desert, grabbing a few cases of water bottles from a vendor just in case. Like Zecora said, the ride did take a full six hours, but it was worth it. Now, I did want to call some of the Pegasus Royal Guards to fly us in a carriage, but I knew they couldn't fly for six hours straight, and plus, I didn't want them to get dehydrated, so I bought some train tickets. The train soon came to a stop, and the loud train whistle and Zecora's soft nuzzle woke me up.

"We're here, Glitter", she whispered softly into my ear. I groaned and sat up.

"OK, hon", I said.

"Now, like I said", Zecora said, "No one here speaks a pony's language, so please activate your translator and keep it on so Lord Takador doesn't see your aura". I nodded and did. "Now, I will lead the way".

"No", Uru said, "I will lead the way". She quickly ran out of the train. Zecora rolled her eyes and lead me out of the train and outside. I will say, it wasn't so bad, thanks to the potion Zecora gave me. I could feel the Sun's heat, but it didn't make me want to go back. I knew I was ready.

Soon, we walked into this small village full of zebras. They all looked the same, and the only difference in them was their coat patterns. Each similar coat zebras all lived in small tents for shelter. After walking around for a little while longer, we finally found the tent Zecora's parents were, but only her father was there. He had the exact same coat pattern as Zecora's and Uru's. I have to admit, I was starting to get a little nervous as we got closer, but I was able to keep my straight face.

"Father!", Zecora said to him. He looked up at Zecora, smiling wide.

"Zecora!", he said, hugging his daughter tight, "My daughter has returned! It's been almost seven years!"

"I have good news, Father!", Zecora said, "I'm getting married!"

"Married, you say?", Zecora's dad said, looking at me, "Is he the one?"

"Yes", Zecora said, "You'll never believe this, but he's the Prince of Equestria. If I marry him, I will become a Princess". Still looking at me, his eyebrows raised.

"Is this true, Equestrian citizen?", he asked.

"Yes", I said, "I'm Glitter Sparkle, the Prince of Equestria and the son of Princess Celestia".

"Child of Princess Celestia?!", he said, "Then it's true. My little girl is going to be the Princess of Equestria".

"Well... one of them", Zecora said, "There's already two". He nodded and looked at me.

"Well, I'm Daka, Young Prince", he said, "Zecora's father".

"Nice to meet you, Daka", I said, "You may call me Glitter". I smiled as I shook his hoof.

"Understood", Daka said, "Well, come in before you burn up out here".

I shrugged and follow Daka and Zecora into the tent, while Uru walked off somewhere else. It wasn't much in the tent. It was just a few logs they used as chairs, a large cauldron, bookcases filled with bottles of liquid, bottles of liquid hanging from the ceiling, a lit campfire, a small patch of grass, and, of course, the African masks similar to Zecora's. I figured they used the grass either for food or as an inside bathroom, but I wasn't gonna find out the hard way. Plus, now I know why Zecora liked to decorate her hut like she does, because it looked kind of like her's. Anyway, I sat down on one of the logs and Zecora sat down on the one across from me.

"I greatly apologize if you don't like our tent", Daka said, "It's not easy to get fancy decorations here in Africa. You just have to use whatever you got".

"That's alright", I said, "I respect other's cultures. I'll say, on a scale of one to ten, you'd be ranked number four compared to the other places I've visited".

"Well, thanks, Glitter", Daka said, "It really warms my heart to hear that come from a Prince". Daka walked over to the cauldron and grabbed the ladle on the table next to it. "Care for some tea, Zecora?"

"Yes, Father", Zecora said. Daka dipped the ladle into the cauldron and poured the golden-colored tea into a coconut half, giving it to Zecora.

"Prince?", he said to me.

"Sure", I said. Daka smiled and poured more tea in another coconut half, giving it to me. After pouring himself a cup of the tea, he sat down on the log across from me next to his daughter.

"Thank you, Daka", I said, sipping the tea. It was hot and sweet, just like Zecora's.

"You're welcome, Glitter", Daka said, "So tell me, how did you and my daughter meet?" I concentrated hard to keep a straight face. For some strange reason, remembering how Zecora and I first met was very funny to me.

"Well...", I said, "I had just finished having dinner with my best friend, Twilight, and she told me about the Everfree Forest, the place Zecora lives, which was told to be the scariest forest in Ponyville. I let my courage get the best of me and walked into the forest. Right when I decided to go back, a black cat crossed my path and I ran the other way as fast as I could. That's when my head collided with a tree, knocking me unconscious. Zecora found me and fixed me up. Then we got to know each other a little better and I know share her interest in potion and brew making".

"You enjoy it too, huh?", Daka asked me. I happily nodded. "What a coincidence. That runs in our family, and we're the only zebra family who enjoys it".

"That's great", I said, taking another sip of tea, "I liked it from the first time I tried it. It interests me a lot". Daka smiled and stood up.

"That's all I needed to hear", he said, "I've never seen a pony who enjoys a zebra's culture, and knowing you're the Prince of the entire Equestrian Nation makes me even happier to have such a sweet filly as a daughter". He licked Zecora's cheek, causing a hot blush to form on her face. "You two definitely have my permission for you to become wedded". He held his hoof out to me. "Welcome to the family, son". I smiled and happily shook his hoof with mine.

"Glad to be welcome", I said, "And I am pleased to welcome your family into the Royal Equestrian Family". Daka smiled and nuzzled me, sitting back down on the log, as did I.

"So", he said, "Would you like to tell me when the wedding is? I would most certainly like to participate".

"It's the eight day of next month, Father", Zecora said, "And I want you to be my escort". I could sense so much flattery in Daka, as he tried very hard to hide it.

"You want me to be your escort, Sweetie?", he said softly.

"Yes", Zecora said, hugging her dad, "I was there when you married Mother, so I want you to see me marry Glitter".

"I would be honored to walk you down that aisle, Zecora", Daka said, kissing his daughter's cheek.

"And that's the final position filled", I said, "We have catering, music, entertainment, dresses, and our personal members. Your escort is Daka, and my best mare is Caddie. Looks like we've got a surefire wedding Saturday after next". We were about to kiss, but looked at Daka first for approval. He chuckled lightly.

"Proceed", he said. I smiled and kissed Zecora for a full minute. Right after we let go, another zebra walked in, this one a mare.

"I finally found some live crabgrass, Darling", she said. She then looked at Zecora. "Oh... it's back".

"Hello to you, Mother", Zecora said. She then looked at me.

"Why is there an Equestrian Pony in the tent?", she asked.

"That's Glitter, Arury", Daka said, "Zecora's fiance".

"Fiance?!", Arury said.

"Yes", Daka said, "Glitter's the Prince of Equestria, hon. If he marries Zecora, she will become its newest Princess!" Arury's look went from surprised to angry.

"Absolutely not!", she yelled, "I forbid that from happening!"

"Of course you would!", Zecora yelled at her mother, "But if Uru was marrying him, you would be happier than the hyenas!"

"Of course I would", Arury said, "Because she isn't a mistake". Zecora gasped, seriously offended.

"Uh... I'm gonna step outside for a bit", I said, walking out of the tent. But, I peaked in through the opened tent flap.

"I'm the mistake?!", Zecora yelled, "I'm the mistake?! At least I was born normal and not with a hyperactivity disease!"

"OK OK!", Daka said, taking charge, "Enough! Arury, you should be happy for Zecora. This is her one and only special day she's ever gotten to celebrate, and I think she should marry Glitter".

"I don't!", Arury said, "The day that THING marries that Prince is the day I stop eating grass".

"You never let me do anything, Mother!", Zecora said, pressing her muzzle hard against her Mother's, "I'm twenty-five years old, and you can't tell me who I can and can't marry!" Arury growled and right before my eyes, she slapped Zecora right across her face with her hoof, causing her to fall right into the dirt.

"I don't care how old you are!", Arury said, "You're still my daughter, and you're going to listen to me no matter what! I forbid you from marrying that Equestrian!" Zecora's eyes welled up with tears as she ran out of the tent as fast as she could. I wanted to chase after her, but decided to give her a little time to herself first.

"Now, you!", Arury said to Daka, shoving her hoof into his shoulder, "Maybe you don't remember, but I have the authority by Lord Takador to send you back into expulsion. If you want to keep living in this tent, you will obey MY rules!" Daka gulped and nodded.

"And you! Peeking in through the tent!", Arury yelled at me, "If you go behind my back and marry her anyway, I will force her to move back into this tent and you'll never see her again! And I don't care what kind of authority you've got!" I rolled my eyes and walked off to find Zecora.

Soon, I found her at the waterhole, sitting on a log next to the water, rubbing the slightly reddened part of her face where she was slapped, weeping softly into her other hoof. I slowly walked over to her and placed my hoof on her shoulder.

"Zecora...?", I said very softly. Zecora turned to face me, tears flowing like waterfalls out of her blue eyes. "Are you alright?" She said nothing. She just took off her necklace and held it out to me. "What's this?"

"You can have your jewelry back...", Zecora said, her voice a little cracked, "I won't be needing it anyway". I sighed and sat down next to the sad zebra.

"No, Zecora", I said, grabbing the necklace with my magic and clipping it back together around her neck, "You will be needing it, because the wedding will still commence on its scheduled date".

"What?", Zecora said, sounding very surprised, "But Mother just said-"

"I don't care", I said, cutting her off, "Arury can kiss my dark green rear end. I proposed to you and arranged all the preparations for our special day, and I'm not gonna let some zebra I just met take that from us. You and I are gonna get married in two weeks, whether Arury likes it or not". Zecora smiled and jumped into my lap, resting her head on my neck.

"But... how are gonna... keep this from Mother?", she timidly asked me.

"Canterlot is six hours away from this place, Zecora", I said, "As long as Uru or Daka don't find out, Arury won't be able to stop it".

"No need", another voice said, "I already know". Daka came from behind a tree, having heard the whole thing. "But, I'm going to keep it a secret from Arury, because I want my little filly to marry her fiance". I smiled.

"Thanks, Daka", I said, "But, the wedding is in Canterlot".

"Canterlot, you say?", he said, "That's hardly inconvenient at all. Where do you think Canterlot gets their medicine from?"

"The medicine in Canterlot comes from here?", I asked, "Then why aren't you paid much?"

"Oh, I don't make the medicine", Daka said, "I just deliver it. I'm always going to Canterlot, so I'll be there in time for your wedding". I smiled and shook his hoof again.

"It'll be great to have you there", I said, "And I'm sure you'll make a good father-and-law". Daka smiled again. "So, you wanna come back to Ponyville with us? I'm sure you'll enjoy Zecora's treehouse".

"I really would love to", Daka said, placing his hoof on my shoulder, "But I must stay here until the wedding. Our goal is to hide this secret from Uru and Arury, and we wouldn't want them getting too suspicious and finding out, would we?"

"Good point", I said. Zecora tapped my shoulder.

"Hon", she said, "We need to go back to Equestria now. The liquid you drank is to wear off in one hour, and I don't want you to dehydrate". I nodded and turned toward Daka.

"Well, I guess it's time to go", I said, "I'll see you in two weeks, Daka". He smiled and pulled me into a tight hug, chuckling.

"I'll see you then", he said, "Son". I had to strain to fight a blush after he called me "son". I let go of Daka and Zecora and I got back on the train and returned to Ponyville.

~~~~~~~~~~

The next day...

While Zecora was at Carousel Boutique getting fitted for her wedding dress, Abigail and I were at the Crystal Empire, having some dinner with Caddie. It was a curried hay casserole with sweetbread, the best dish the Crystal Empire can make. Anyway, while eating, I was talking to Caddie and getting some advice about my big day.

"...and then I'll walk out and stand next to you as everyone else gets seated", Caddie said, sipping her tea.

"Alright", I said, wiping a bit of curry from my lip, "Anything else?"

"That's pretty much all I can tell you right now", Caddie said, "Because everything else I know is bridal stuff. You'll have to talk to Shiny if you want to know more about groom-related business".

"Will do", I said, finishing the last few bites of my casserole, "Speaking of Shining, where is he anyway?"

"He went out", Caddie said, "He said he was going for a jog, but that was after he saw an ad about a new flavor of ice cream being sold at the Creamery". I laughed.

"He's going for a jog alright", I said.

"What's ironic is he said he's been trying to lower his cholesterol", Caddie said, "But I don't think ice cream will help him with that problem". I laughed again, this time a little harder.

"I love irony", I said, "Especially when it's funny". Caddie smiled and scooted herself closer to me, pulling me into a tight cuddle.

"I'm so glad you chose me to be your best mare", she said, "It's one of the best honors I've ever had, and I just got married two weeks ago".

"Of course I chose you, Caddie", I said, giving her a little nuzzle, "Why wouldn't I choose you?"

"Well... I thought you would pick one of your newer friends", Caddie said, "Since you get to be around them more often".

"Oh, Caddie", I said, "Those mares are just my friends. You're my cousin. Plus, you allowed me to be your escort, so I should return the favor and allow you to be my best mare". Caddie smiled and rested her head on top of mine.

"You're so sweet, Glitter", she said, "I love you".

"I love you too, Caddie", I said.

"Ahem", Abigail said, having just finished and walked over to us, "Do you think you can share some sugar with the stinker?" I laughed again.

"Sure, Abigail", I said. Abigail smiled and joined in the cuddle, purring very loudly.

"Aww", Caddie said, letting go of me, "How cute. I'm glad you like the skunk I gave you".

"And I'm glad you gave it to me", I said, "I mean... gave her to me". Caddie chuckled.

"Right", she said, "Abigail, is it?"

"Yes, Mrs. Cadence", Abigail said.

"Just Cadence or Caddie is fine, little one", Caddie said, "Only my office assistants have to call me 'Mrs.'" Abigail nodded. "So, who wants dessert?"

"You read my mind, Caddie", I said.

We finished dinner and our dessert and about two hours later, Shining Armor had came back. I was glad too, because I wanted to know more about groom-related wedding procedures. We settled in the bedroom he and Caddie share and talked. After he told me everything he knows, we decided to hang out for a while and play some video games. Even though Shining is no where near as good as I am, it was still fun to play with him. We were playing his favorite shooter game, and like always, I was winning.

"I'm gonna win this time, Glitter!", he said, furiously mashing the buttons on the controller.

"And that's like the fifth time you've said that", I said, "But who's always been the winner, hmm?" I smiled. "Gotcha!" I pressed the right flicker on the controller and shot his character, winning again.

"Darn it!", Shining said, throwing the controller on the bed, "Why do I always lose?"

"I'm just better than you, Shining", I said, chuckling, "And following my victory, you owe me 100 bits".

"Yeah yeah", Shining said, "I'll pay you whenever I can. *sigh* Is there anything I can do to ever beat you?"

"Maybe you could try pressing the buttons with a strategy instead of just mashing them", I said.

"Whatever, Glitter", he said, giving me a playful jab on my shoulder. He then stood up. "Be right back. Getting a call from Mother Nature". He walked into the bathroom as the door opened and Caddie walked in, carrying a sleeping Abigail on her back.

"Hey, Caddie", I said.

"Hey to you, Glitter", Caddie said. She used her horn to grab her pillow from the bed and set it down next to me, sitting on it, "Made you a sandwich". She gave me a sandwich wrapped in a napkin. I smiled and accepted it.

"Thanks, Caddie", I said.

"You're welcome, Glitter", Caddie said, "I made it just the way you like it. So, whatcha doin'?"

"Nothing much", I said, "Just playing some games with Shining. He still can't beat me".

"What a surprise", Caddie said, placing the sleeping skunk on the bed and covering her up with the blanket, "He can't beat me either".

"Huh?", I said, "I didn't know you were a gamer".

"Of course I am, you silly", Caddie said, nuzzling the side of my face, "I love a good shooter game every now and then. I just don't have much time to play them, being the Princess of the Crystal Empire and all".

"Well, I've never played you before", I said, "Care to play me?"

"Couldn't care less, little cousin", Caddie said, "Let's do it". Caddie grabbed the other controller and I restarted the game. I'll say, Shining might have been easy to beat, but Caddie was a whole another pony, and she was insanely good. No wonder she doesn't play games much, because she was good. In the end, I wasn't able to beat her, and accepted the loss.

"Looks like you win, Caddie", I said, "Good game".

"Good game indeed, Glitter", Caddie said, nuzzling me. I unwrapped my sandwich and took a small bite, smiling as the combined flavors of wheat bread, hay, cheese, lettuce, onions, and mayo burst on my tongue. That's when I heard a loud yawn and saw Abigail sit up, rubbing her eyes.

"Well, look who's awake", I said, swallowing the bite of sandwich and lightly pulling her into my lap.

"Don't... *yawn*... tease me, Glitter", Abigail said, her voice a little slurred, "I was... *yawn* sleepy".

"I know I know", I said, "Just messing with you". Abigail giggled after a final yawn and snuggled into my coat, a loud growl coming from her little stomach. She blushed lightly.

"Are you hungry again?", I asked as she nodded, "You ate before your nap. How can you be hungry again?"

"Well, it's just a thing for us skunks", Abigail said, "While we're sleeping, our bodies work twice as fast, and anything we eat becomes digested within five minutes".

"Oh", I said, "That's interesting. Anyway, I've got a sandwich here. You want some?"

"Sure", Abigail said. I tore a small square off of the sandwich and gave it to Abigail, who held it in her paws and nibbled at it. Caddie chuckled lightly.

"She looks so cute when she eats", she said to me. A small blush appeared on Abigail's face as she continued to nibble. "She looks like a newborn foal in your hooves like that".

"Speaking of foals", I said, lightly petting Abigail's head as she ate, "Do you and Shining Armor plan on having one?" Caddie's smile dropped to a sad frown.

"Oh, Glitter", she said, "We really, really want to, but we can't. Shiny's mother made him get a vasectomy before he married me because she doesn't want him impregnating a Princess. Without his sperm cells, my egg cells can't help make one".

"Oh... well... I'm sorry, Caddie", I said, feeling a little sorry for her.

"Don't be, little cousin", Caddie said, nuzzling me a few times, "You had nothing to do with it. You just escorted me down the aisle and that's it".

"Well, look on the bright side", Abigail said, licking a few bread crumbs from her paws, "At least you didn't have to get your tubes tied or something. And at least Shining wasn't neutered, like I was".

"No you weren't", I said, "You were spayed. Neuters only happen to males".

"Oh, right", Abigail said, "Spaying isn't pretty either, especially if your reproductive organs are inside you".

"I know, Little Abigail", Caddie said, "But let's try not to think about that. It makes me sad".

"OK, Caddie", I said, "You want a rematch?" Caddie smiled again.

"Sure", Caddie said.

"Uh... wait", Abigail said, "Before you start playing again... I kinda... need to go #2. Is there anywhere I can go?"

"Sure", Caddie said, "You can go in the garden in the backyard. The door should already be open. Just please make sure to bury whatever you drop so it isn't accidentally stepped on, OK?"

"OK, Caddie", Abigail said, walking out of the room.

"So", I said, "Ready?"

"Actually, Glitter", Caddie said, "I think you should get back home. Not trying to kick you out or anything, but I believe you have a fiancee to get back to. Plus, Shiny and I have court tomorrow, so we should be getting to bed after he's finished in the bathroom". I nodded and stood up.

"Very well then", I said, "I'll see you later, Caddie". Caddie smiled and hugged me tight, giving me a warm kiss on my cheek.

"I'll see you then", she said, "I love you".

"I love you too", I said. I left the room and once Abigail was finished doing her business, I grabbed her and we got a carriage ride back to Ponyville.

~~~~~~~~~~

My wedding day...

I was feeling very groggy once I woke up that day. My eyes were heavy, but I was able to open them. I looked around and saw that I was in the dining area of Sugarcube Corner. Half-eaten party cakes, empty bottles of apple cider, crunched up potato chips, pretzel sticks, half-eaten chocolate bars, pizza crusts, soda cans, and pony hairs were all over the tables and the floor. I was confused at first, but then smiled as I remembered it was my bachelor party the previous night.

Now, it wasn't much. I knew a lot more mares than stallions, and since a bachelor party is only for males, it was hard to invite guests. The only guests I had were Shining Armor, Spike, and Daka, who had gotten the date wrong and arrived a day early. It was still great to have him around. Luckily for us, Pinkie Pie had set everything up for us and let us have so many snacks for free, as long as we promised to help clean up. Pinkie also let us use the two air mattresses in the basement for beds. Since there was only two, we had to double up and share. I shared the bigger one with Daka, and Shining and Spike shared the other one. The party was great, but what was even better was knowing that my wedding day was that next day. I was about to relate to Zecora, forever.

"Hey, are you awake, Glitter?", a voice called. I looked over to my left, seeing Daka wide awake, smiling. I rubbed my eyes and sat up, as did Daka.

"I'm up", I said, "Took me a while to open my eyes though. That party was insane last night".

"You may say that again", Daka said, "I was glad I was here to enjoy it. But today, it seems you will be getting something much more valuable than some party".

"Yes", I said, "I'm getting married to my marefriend and your beautiful daughter. Zecora and I have been waiting for this day, and it's finally here!"

"Congrats, son", Daka said. I smiled and looked over at Shining and Spike, who were both still deeply sleeping.

"Looks like Shining and Spike wont be waking up for a while", I said, "Must have partied a little too hard". Daka laughed as I picked a half-eaten chocolate bar from the floor and took a bite. My stomach was as strong as a griffon's, so I wasn't very bothered by the amounts of dust and zebra hairs it collected during the time it was on the floor.

"So", he said, "As I remember, the wedding is at 6:00 this evening, correct?" I swallowed.

"Correct", I said, "And now that Zecora has chosen her bridesmaids and I have Shining and Spike as groomsmates, everything should go as planned".

"Yes", Daka said, "Especially since neither Arury nor Uru know about it. And once you two become married, by the order of Lord Takador, Arury will have no authority over Zecora and will not be able to take her back to Africa".

"Really?", I said. Daka nodded. "Well, that's great! That takes so much weight off of my shoulders". I looked over at the digital clock on the wall. "It's 10:00 in the morning. We still have several hours before I have to get ready". I turned back around to Daka. "You wanna go grab some coffee? I'll pay". He smiled.

"That's very nice of you, Glitter", he said, "Sure, but you may want to go wash your face first. You seem to have... a little something... drawn on your face". I got up, walked into the bathroom, and looked in the mirror, seeing a very explicit drawing on my forehead. I growled under my breath in anger.

"Shining...!", I mumbled. I then washed the drawing off of my face, thanking my lucky stars that Shining didn't use a permanent marker. After that, I left a note for Spike and Shining and went to Heartstrings' Confectionery, Daka following me.

Daka and I were sitting at one of the tables, drinking our coffees and playing checkers, talking and getting to know each other a little better before we became in-laws.

"King me", I said. Daka placed a black checker on top of another one. "So, if both you and Zecora enjoy mixing and making potions, how come she always speaks in rhymes and you do not?"

"Well", Daka said, performing a double-jump, "It's because I'm a much more experienced zebra than she is. I'm used to instantly rhyming when making a brew, but Zecora constantly does it because she may forget. If the you should forget to rhyme while mixing, the brew will fail, and you end up wasting ingredients".

"Oh", I said, "Alright". I smiled, made the last jump, and took the last red checker. "I win". Daka chuckled.

"So it seems", he said, "Good game".

"Indeed", I said.

"Oh, Glitter", he said, "You think you can do a friend a favor and buy him a hay sandwich? Haven't had any breakfast yet and I don't have my wallet with me".

"Is that it?", I asked, "You can order something bigger if you want. I can afford it".

"Are you sure?", Daka asked me.

"Of course, Daka", I said, "Just wanna show a little kindness toward you". Daka smiled.

"I thank you, Glitter Sparkle", he said, "Um... I think I'll just take a hay steak. Haven't had one in a long time".

"Sounds good, Daka", I said, "In fact, I think I'll order one for myself as well". At that point, Lyra Heartstrings had come to our table.

"Everything alright here?", she asked.

"Yes, Lyra", I said, "But, Daka and I would like to order some stuff".

"What would you like?", Lyra asked.

"Two hay steaks please", I said, "With a large side of hay fries. Extra-crispy".

"Alright", Lyra said, "Be ready in a few minutes". Lyra walked off.

"So, Daka", I said, "What do you think about Equestrian Culture?"

"It is very fascinating", Daka said, "Though it doesn't feel like something I would fit in. All the Equestrians seem so upperclassed and civil, while I'm not. I don't even speak the Equestrian language. If it weren't for your magic, you wouldn't understand what I'm saying".

"Daka...", I said, "Equestria is the kindest and most accepting world in this existence of worlds. No one is considered an 'outsider' or an 'intruder'. You could fit in an time you want. Zecora got use to it, and even though I had to help her become accepted by the Ponyville residents, she became comfortable with the culture".

"Really?", Daka said.

"Yes", I said, "Just trust me, no one will hate you. Equestria may be a lot of things, but negative isn't one of them". He smiled and pulled me into a tight hug.

"Thanks, son", he said, planting a small kiss on my cheek.

"You're welcome, Daka", I said.

~~~~~~~~~~

It was time. I was standing at the alter in my tuxedo, next to Caddie and my groomsmates. Mom and Auntie Luna were standing next to each other, also waiting. I was barely able to hold in my tears We hadn't seen each other since our rehearsal the previous night, and I was ready to marry her. After the flower fillies dropped their rose petals and Abigail, serving as the jewelry bearer, came with with the pillow holding a diamond horn-ring and a diamond necklace, Zecora was to come out next with her father.

Suddenly, it happened. Fluttershy directed her birds to play the traditional wedding song and the door opened again. I saw her. Zecora was wearing a fluffy, white, thick dress, covered in multicolored gems, and she was carrying a large bouquet of roses and Sunflowers in her mouth. Her mane was shined and bedazzled, and hung gloriously down from her head. Her coat was also shined and she was wearing a light eye makeup. She looked so beautiful, and not even Rarity could match to the beauty she had. Daka, holding his daughter's right front-leg, walked her to the alter, and went to sit down after she had gotten to where I was. Then, Mom spoke.

"Mares and Gentlecolts", she said, her voice sounding a little raspy, "We... are gathered... here today... *loud sniffle*" Before she could even finish talking, she began crying tears of joy, causing small "Aww's" to emanate from the crowd. You don't know how happy she was for me. In fact, I had never seen Mom this happy. "I... I'm sorry, everypony. I'm just... happy for my little colt". I'm pretty sure Auntie Luna knew Mom wasn't going to be able to finish in the state she was in, so she leaned over to her and whispered.

"I'll take over from here, Tia", she said, "Go wash your face and calm down". Mom nodded and walked off.

"I apologize for that, everypony", Auntie Luna said, "Tia's just happy for her son. Anyway, we are gathered here today to join Tia's son and my nephew, Glitter Sparkle, and African zebra, Zecora, in holy matrimony. The bride and groom will now say their wedding vows". I smiled and cleared my throat.

"Zecora", I said, "You don't know how happy I am to be standing at this alter right now. I knew this day would come when you and I related. Of course, it's a very funny story how you and I first met. You healed a near-concussion after I ran head-first into a tree. You did for me, so I did for you. I was able to convince the Ponyville residents that you weren't an evil enchantress or a witchcraft-performer or..." I chuckled a little. "... a pony eater". Zecora chuckled also. "Anyway, bottom line, I'm very happy to become married to such a great mare. I love you, Zecora". Zecora smiled and said what she had to say.

"It is true, Glitter Sparkle", she said, returning to her rhyming, "In all of that, you have saved me from a life that was once dull. I really adore the thought of tying our knot, and it is one I never would have thought. When I'm around you, I feel so warm inside, and it's a feeling I cannot subside. I cannot wait to spend the rest of my days with you, after this wedding reception is through. Glitter, I love you". I smiled and nuzzled Zecora.

"May I have the jewels, please?", Auntie Luna said. Abigail walked over to Auntie Luna and allowed her to take the ring and necklace. "Now, before the bride and groom are rewarded their jewelry, if there is anypony here who thinks these two should not be wedded, speak now, or forever hold your peace". I smiled, knowing nopony was going to say anything. Or so I thought.

"STOP!!!!!!!!", a loud voice called out. Suddenly, Arury ran into the wedding hall, and I stood there with my mouth agape. I thought for sure she didn't know. Either Daka cracked and told her, or she somehow found out.

"Mother...", Zecora said, sounding a lot more surprised than I was.

"I knew it!", Arury said, "I knew you wouldn't listen to me!" All of the audience couldn't understand what she was saying, so I activated a very strong Translator Spell on them so they could.

"How did you find out?!", Daka said.

"I figured something would happen", Arury said, "So I had Uru follow that Equestrian, an she told me he said the wedding would still commence. I told you what would happen if you didn't listen to me!"

"I'm not going anywhere, Mother!", Zecora said, "This is where I want to stay, and this is who I want to marry!"

"You don't have a choice, you stupid mistake!", Arury said, "You are required to listen to me unless you want to be executed. I have Lord Takador's authority! I'll do it right in front of everyone here!" She turned to Daka. "And you might as well find a place to stay here, because you're going back into expulsion!" Zecora hung her head and looked back at me.

"I'm sorry, Glitter", she said, a tear running down her face. She kissed my cheek and walked away. Now, I wasn't about to let that happen, either. I had everything set up, and had everything arranged. Before they could walk out, I spoke.

"Hold it, Arury!", I said. Arury turned around.

"What?", Arury said.

"Now, tell me, why is it that you don't want Zecora to marry me?", I asked.

"Because I said so!", Arury said, "What do you care, anyway?!"

"Tell me", I said, "Did your parents forbid you from marrying Daka? Did you have to go behind their back and do it?" I could see a tear run down Arury's face.

"Yes...", Arury said, "I too wanted to marry a stallion, and that stallion was Daka. But, my mother and father told me not to, and I went behind their back and did it anyway. Once I got home, Lord Takador informed me they both were killed and eaten by lions. I became orphaned. That's why I'm trying hard to keep her from marrying you. I don't want to risk the same thing happening to her".

"Arury...", I said, "What makes you think that? Not all misfortunes can happen again".

"Plus, Arury", Daka said, "That's the reason all herbivorous animal villages were moved away from the carnivorous".

"If that's the truth", Zecora said, "Why do you hate me so much?"

"Zecora...", Arury said, "I don't hate you. I love you. But, I was only cruel to you because I thought it would make you change your mind about marrying that Equestrian".

"You called me a mistake!", Zecora said, "And I'm the one that came first!"

"I know", Arury said, "And I'm sorry". Arury hugged her daughter. Zecora hugged her back, but I could see in her eyes she was resisting an urge to pay Arury back for that slap. Once Arury let go, she said what I wanted to hear. "Now you get up back up on that alter and finish what you started, Zecora". Zecora instantly ran back up onto the alter and stood across from me.

"Let's finish this, Auntie Luna", I said, smiling.

"Alright then", Auntie Luna said, "Glitter Sparkle, do you take Zecora to be your lawfully wedded wife for the rest of your immortal life?"

"I do", I said. Auntie Luna gave me the diamond necklace. I took it and clipped it around Zecora's neck, smiling as the clean, clear diamonds hung from her neck.

"And Zecora", Auntie Luna said, "Do you take Glitter Sparkle to be your lawfully wedded husband for the rest of your soon-to-be-immortal life?"

"I do", Zecora said. Auntie Luna gave Zecora the horn-ring. I knelt down and she placed the ring on my horn, sliding it down until it reached the top of my head.

"By the power invested in me, my daughter Cadence, and my sister, Celestia", Auntie Luna said, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride". I pulled Zecora into a tight cuddle, kissing her. All of the audience started cheering loudly and after Rainbow Dash performed another successful Sonic Rainboom, the reception was over.

~~~~~~~~~~

Right after everyone got outside and Zecora and I signed our marriage papers, the wedding party had begun. While Zecora was having a bridal dance with the mares, I was talking to Mom, who had recovered from her crying.

"I can't believe I'm married", I said, "Married to Zecora".

"I know, Sweetie!", Mom said, "My little colt is growing up so fast!" She pulled me into a tight cuddle and kissed my muzzle.

"Yes he is", I said playfully.

"Now", Mom said, "Allow me to give you your first wedding gift".

"What is it?", I asked. Mom smiled.

"For your honeymoon", she said, "Luna and I were able to pay for a cruise to Las Pegasus and back. We're giving it to you". I was surprised and almost spit out my apple cider.

"Las Pegasus?!", I said, "Really?!"

"Of course, Sweetie", Mom said, "One week in Las Pegasus. Your transportation will be by a private cruise ship. You will have access to the beach, the casino, and the restaurants".

"Mom...", I said, "I... I don't... even know what to... I..."

"You're welcome, Sweetie", Mom said. I smiled and hugged her tight. "But, if you gamble and win anything, you have to give me 10% so I can fill in that hole for the Castle's money, OK?"

"OK", I said. I then blushed a little. "Uh... Mom?"

"Yes, Sweetheart?", Mom asked.

"Well... it is a honeymoon", I said, "So... do you think I can... get a little advice about-" Mom covered my mouth with her hoof before I could finish.

"Of course you can, Sweetie", she whispered into my ear, "But we'll need to talk alone. Follow me up to my chambers". I nodded. After getting the advice I needed, I went back outside to enjoy the rest of my party.

"Glitter", Arury said, having just walked over to me, "May I have a little of your time?"

"Sure, Arury", I said.

"I greatly apologize for the behavior I showed toward you the last time we met", Arury said, "I was just trying to stop the marriage".

"It's alright, Arury", I said, giving her a small nuzzle, "You told me why you acted like that, and I understand. In fact, now that you both are here, I think I have a little surprise for you two". I walked up to the dance floor and stopped the music.

"Everypony", I said, "I apologize for stopping the music, but I have a song for Zecora and her family to show I'm happy for them to be in their family". I switched the beat to a much slower one and sang.

After my song, I placed the microphone back onto its stand as the audience started cheering. Zecora ran over to me and hugged me tight, and Arury and Daka had been dancing as I sung. I smiled and kissed Zecora for about a minute.

"Glitter! Zecora!", Caddie called from the back, "Come on! The ship has arrived! Honeymoon time!" I smiled and looked at Zecora.

"I think I'm supposed to carry you there", I said. Zecora chuckled and jumped on my back. I smiled again and carried Zecora over to Canterlot Sea, where a large ship was. I smiled and turned toward Caddie.

"I'm excited, Caddie", I said.

"I'm sure you are, Glitter", Caddie said, "I was before I went on mine".

"Oh", I said, "Do you think you could watch over Abigail while I'm gone?"

"Of course", Caddie said, "Alright, you go have fun".

"I will", I said, "I love you, Caddie".

"I love you too, Glitter", Caddie said. I walked up the ramp of the ship and smiled as it closed and gently floated away. I couldn't wait to see what Las Pegasus and my new marriage had in store for me.

Author's Note

I've got two things to cover.

First of all, I'm sorry about messing up the wedding order in chapter 11. I forgot the bachelor party was the night BEFORE the wedding because it's a man's last free night.

Second, I've been getting a lot of complaints about me "plagiarizing" MLP episodes. Well, I'm only using them to get a couple of ideas, but if it make you all feel better, no more episodes will be used. (Besides Magical Mystery Cure, because Twilight will become an Alicorn)

Sorry for the delay.

Up next: A Las Pegasus Honeymoon