Chronicles of the Ponyverse

Chapters

Chicken in the Storm
Equestria Girls HISHE
Wedding Belles

Chicken in the Storm

On this bright sunny morning Twilight felt dizzy and exhausted, and while she didn't remember having any cider it was entirely possible Pinkie spiked the punch again for the celebration party. Was there even a celebration party? What could they be celebrating? As Twilight thought through the previous day, she found it extremely hard to remember any of it.

As Twilight opened her eyes, she spotted the practically unmissable fact that the ceiling was made of fluffy white clouds. And as she began to notice her surroundings, the apparent cloud covered room was obvious. Twilight stretched and realised that she probably passed out due to being drunk or exhausted or something. This had only happened one other time to Pinkie, and Dash joked about it for only a couple of days so it wasn’t that bad. Twilight got up and was content with the prospect of facing Dash.

Twilight also knew that she didn't have to do that unpleasantness right away, so she looked around, noticing that Rainbow Dash had a few toys lying around. This was interesting; Rainbow Dash never mentioned she was a toy collector like Pinkie. But as her eyes scanned the room, she noticed the scattered mess in the room. Was this a spare room? Must be. Twilight knew nopony besides Dash lived here.

Fully awake now, Twilight noticed that the bed, desk, and side table were a bit too big for comfort, and quietly pondered whether clouds grew when moisture got in them. Her eyes focused on a photo of Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo, with ponies that Twilight assumed were her family. That, combined with the toys, gave Twilight enough confidence to assume she was in Scootaloo's room. Twilight found it endearing that Rainbow Dash took her role as honorary big sister so seriously.

As she entered the ensuite to wash up, Twilight noticed that the mirror was too high. That was strange, but she was too tired to really worry about that for now. She spotted a red step and dragged it over. She stood on it and looked in the mirror.

“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!” She fell back as she spotted her reflection. She took a second look, and it was definitely her; the orange fur, the purple mane, the lack of horn. She was Scootaloo, and – despite how – this was definitely something that she needed to fix. What was she thinking? Of course it was!

‘This is insane!’ she thought, panicking as she stared at her reflection. ‘Calm down,’ said her brain, ‘this isn’t the weirdest thing that has happened.’ Twilight protested, ‘Yes it is! You’re an idiot!’ Her internal critic mentally rolled her eyes. ‘There are other possibilities. You could just think you’re Twilight or be dreaming. Either way, you aren’t going to get anywhere by staying here!’ Twilight sighed and left the ensuite.

As she went back to Scootaloo's room, Dash was there, looking concerned and floating in the doorway. “You okay, squirt?”

Twilight looked at Dash. Why couldn't it have been something simple? It's never simple!

“Yeah, I'm okay,” Twilight said, smiling reassuringly, which made Dash feel a bit better.

“Okay, breakfast is nearly ready. Come downstairs soon.” She smiled and flew back downstairs.

Twilight thought of possibilities. 'Okay, so it might be a mind swap… but if that's the case, then why did I do it? And why wouldn't I remember?' Twilight paced and thought. 'I need to find out why Scootaloo is here. That's important, makes it clear what type of magic we are dealing with.' With that reassuring thought, Twilight searched the room until she found a scrapbook bound in strong bookbind, with a hardcover and simple protective magic that was the first spell Twilight learned for her job in the library.

She opened the book, and the first thing she saw was an inscription.'These are the memories and tokens of Scootaloo do not reed unless you are invited bestest wishes Scootaloo' Twilight smiled at the misspellings and the childish hoof-writing. She opened it to the first page and spotted a copy of an adoption certificate. As she smiled, she crossed time travel off her list. Rainbow Dash never adopted Scootaloo, and she was pretty sure she had parents anyway. As she flicked through the photos and notes, Twilight crossed off being insane, because if she was Scootaloo who thought she was Twilight – or vice versa – she would know about the adoption.

Twilight settled on the fact that she needed more facts, and so she put the scrapbook away and went down to eat breakfast… which smelled burnt. Dash was flying around the kitchen, trying to stop the smoke and save what Twilight assumed were pancakes, though it was hard to tell. “Dash, you need help?”

Dash was still frantically trying to fix the burning pan. “No, squirt, I think I've got it. Don't worry!” Dash ultimately failed, and when the pancakes were served, they were practically inedible; something that, fearing food poisoning, Twilight pointed out. “I don't think these are safe to eat.”

Dash exaggerated offence. “You don't like my cooking? But I think they look magnificent, and I bet they taste just as good!”

Twilight could tell she was acting offended; this was either due to her training in the art of friendship, or because it was totally obvious. “Fine, you eat it then."

Dash looked at it and made a disgusted face before floating over to the fridge with a pile of apple waffles, which smelled great. “Applejack made these just in case my cooking was...”

“Not very good?” Twilight offered.

“Horrendous I think was the word Applejack used.”

While they ate, Rainbow Dash talked about the weather. Now, for normal ponies, this is a sign of boredom, but in this case Dash was in charge of the weather, so it was probably important.

“Okay, squirt, here's the thing. This huge storm we have scheduled is going to be big, huge even, could be the biggest on record.” Twilight nodded and kept eating. “It’s important because there are a lot of unnecessary clouds building up. Ponyville voted, and they decided to have one huge overnight storm instead of constant rain throughout about 2 weeks...” Dash took a deep breath. “So I will need to stay there overnight to keep an eye on it. You, on the other hoof, get to stay with Applebloom for tonight.”

Twilight knew Scootaloo would be excited about this, so she got up and started bouncing around the table, cheering. Rainbow Dash smiled and stopped her with a hoof.

“Stand up straight and repeat after me.” Twilight stood up and faced Dash who was a lot taller than her. “I, Scootaloo...” Dash said with her hoof over her chest.

“I, Scootaloo...” Twilight repeated, watching her with curiosity.

“Swear by the honor of the Pinkie Promise...”

Twilight looked confused. “That's not how it...” Dash gave her a look that suggested that she should shut up. “Swear by the honor of the Pinkie Promise...” she said.

“To not do anything stupid or dangerous and to listen to whatever Applejack says, even if I don't understand it.”

“To not do anything stupid or dangerous and to listen to whatever Applejack says, even if I don't understand it,” Twilight repeated. Dash nodded approvingly.

They finished getting ready and Dash flew her to school. Twilight wondered why Scootaloo didn't just fly herself, but as she rested into the blue fur, she didn't care. When they landed and Dash hugged her, Twilight was at a loss with what could be happening, so she just went along with it.

Twilight stood in front of the school building, which looked bigger and more intimidating than she expected. Sure, she could go in there and basically ace any test, but she really didn't want to. Twilight added another possibility to the list. She probably got Twilight to cast a spell on her, or she stole a potion to make her as smart as Twilight and that gave her the memories of Twilight. It didn't explain how Twilight didn't know she was adopted, but that was still a theory she could get behind, and after the storm passed she would find Twilight and get her to reverse the spell.

With that thought lifting her spirits, she started walking into the school grounds. She didn't know she was been snuck upon and didn't notice, possibly because she was in such high spirits or because her stalker was just that sneaky. Twilight felt herself being tackled and held in a tight hug. She looked and saw Applebloom's bow.

“Howdy, Scoot! It's so awesome that we get to have a sleepover!” Twilight tried to break free due to the lack of oxygen and she spotted Spike waving at her.

“Hi, Twilight,” he called happily, then vanished, much to the confusion of Twilight. Applebloom either didn't know or care what just happened.

“Oh boy, this is going to be so much fun! We can play bobbing for apples and pin the apple on the apple tree and tell ghost stories about the evil pear who tries to ruin the apples...”

Twilight broke free and tumbled a bit. “Sounds great, Bloom.” Twilight smiled and looked to the fillies walking up to them. One was wearing a silver tiara and the other wasn't. They walked towards them with their noses up, trying to act as pompous as possible – which is really easy when you have practised this much.

“You know, Silver Spoon? Our sleepover is going to be so good. Daddy says we can have caviar.”

Twilight looked at them. “Caviar? Really?”

Diamond Tiara smirked. “Oh yes, only the best for us. What will you have? Apples, I assume?”

Applebloom was going to yell at them but Twilight stopped her. “Do you even know what caviar is?”

Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes in disgust at such an obvious question. “Of course I do! It's fancy food you can't have!”

“It's fish eggs. Ponies don't eat caviar, we eat sea weed to be fancy.”

Diamond Tiara looked shocked. “You're lying!” Twilight explained in detail what caviar really is. “You’re wrong! If it was true, dad wouldn't eat it... and what do you know anyway, blank flank?”

Twilight facehoofed as Sweetie Belle joined Applebloom in the small audience that was gathered around them. “Did you really just call me blank flank? Is that seriously the best you can do?” Twilight scoffed at them. “Not about the fact that I can't fly or seem to have been obsessed with Rainbow Dash? Hay, you didn't even go for the obvious 'you haven't got real parents' insult, that would at least be dark and a personal attack to me.” Twilight sighed and looked at their shocked faces. “I guess it was too much to expect. I mean, your cutie marks mean that you two are rich and don't have to do anything.”

Twilight walked away as Diamond Tiara called to them. “Rainbow Dash isn’t your real mother!” Twilight continued to walk, ignoring them as she went into the school, followed by Sweetie Belle and Applebloom who were still in shock.

Diamond Tiara watched them go and turned to Silver Spoon. “What just happened here?” Diamond Tiara looked worried.

“I think...” Silver Spoon pondered. “...that we were insulted and judged on our technique.”

Diamond Tiara sat and thought about this. After a while she shrugged it off as a fluke and went to the swings.

“That was so awesome, Scootaloo!” Applebloom practically squealed, bouncing around the orange pegasus.

“When did you learn how to speak like that?” Sweetie Belle pondered.

Twilight shrugged. “She was annoying. I wanted to shut her up.” Twilight was evasive to their questions. Apparently if they weren't going to get to talk about it with her, they were going to keep trying, but for now they sat in the back waiting for their teacher to walk in. As they did so, Twilight looked out the window and saw the first grey cloud being set in place, ready for the storm.

Diamond Tiara walked into the classroom just before it started to rain. She sat next to Silver Spoon who had gone in ahead of her, because Diamond Tiara wanted to be left alone for a bit. Before Silver Spoon had a chance to talk to her, Cheerilee came in.

She was wearing a raincoat, hat and a smile just big enough for Tiara to notice it was fake, but not big enough for her to be forcing it, so she said nothing. Not that she would be heard if she did, as the wind had picked up and the rain was hammering on the roof. She sighed and looked in the direction of Cheerilee.

“Now class today we… going… learn… carrotlot.” Diamond Tiara assumed she misheard, but this lesson was so unimportant she didn't actually care if she was really talking about a lot of carrots or whatever. No, now she needed revenge! Scootaloo had embarrassed her in front of the whole class, and now... she looked at Scootaloo waving her arms and talking to her friends… she was talking about her humiliation.

Perhaps she would print a really embarrassing story, like how she is dating Applebloom or something... no, that would be like insulting her for being blue which would mean, A, nopony would believe her, and B, nopony would care if she was. A loud squeak annoyed her and she couldn't concentrate. When she looked at Scootaloo again she saw the orange pegasus running towards her, looking panicked. Diamond Tiara shot up as Scootaloo tackled her off the seat.

They tumbled on the floor as the light fell where Diamond Tiara had been sitting. Scootaloo climbed to her hooves. Diamond Tiara looked at her, then at the crushed desk. She turned back. “You ruined everything!” she screamed at Scootaloo, and stormed to the back of the class room with Silver Spoon.

Twilight watched her go, confused at the hateful reaction to her good deed. She mentally added that to the list of things to figure out, but first she had a job to do. “Cheerilee!”

The pink pony was bracing the window with wood. “What is it dear?” she called back over the wind.

Twilight stood on the table near her and got the attention of the class. “This classroom is no longer safe.” She glanced towards the back and saw Spike standing in the classroom. “We must evacuate and go to the school library. It is small and secure.”

Cheerilee looked at what had happened to Tiara's desk, then around to the students. “You're right, Scootaloo! Okay, everypony, form a line by the door. We are going to follow the evacuation and lockdown procedures!”

The students formed a line and Twilight stood next to Spike at the back. “Well, Twilight, glad to see you are still as leaderish as you were before.” Twilight looked at him. Then, as they entered the library, she slipped into the reading room without being noticed by Cheerilee.

She saw Spike walk through the closed door like it was open. 'Cause that's not strange at all.' she thought to herself. But then she decided that enough was enough; she was going to get some answers right now! “How do you know I'm Twilight? How did you walk through the door without opening it? How am I Scootaloo? Why am I here? Why can nopony see you? How is Scootaloo adopted by Rainbow Dash when she has parents? What the heck is going on? Why are you wearing that suit?”

Spike was taken aback by the bombardment of questions. He raised his hand, one of which Twilight noted was holding some sort of input output device. “What do you remember before waking up here?”

Twilight thought back. “Nothing! I remember you saying you would ask Rarity out, I remember flashing lights and yelling, and that's it.”

Spike scanned her with the device. As he looked over it, he looked concerned. “You seem to have lost some memories... a side effect we expected.”

Twilight raised her hoof. “A side effect of what, exactly?”

Spike took a deep breath. “You were experimenting with teleportation to other worlds. Funding was being cut, so you decided stupidly to test the machine on yourself. This is the result.”

Twilight nodded. “Yes, of course, that's what happened. I mean, why not? The last time a spell went wrong I turned blue, but hay, this is fine, I am in another world! Why not?” Twilight started laughing. “Hay, or I could be dreaming, or insane, or both!” Spike took a step back. “I mean why the BUCK NOT? WHY NOT JUST GO TO ANOTHER WORLD? That's just a perfect idea, don't you think?”

Twilight felt water pour over her head. As she turned around, she saw Diamond Tiara standing in the door, the water jug landing back on the table where it came from. Twilight was more relaxed now as she turned to face the pony.

“Before you get mad, you were yelling!” Twilight watched as Diamond Tiara walked in front of her and took a deep breath. “You saved my life and I am from a noble family… so… I am indebted to you by strict rules as governed by my family's honour.” Twilight didn't know how to respond to this. “This doesn't mean I have to do whatever you say or that we are friends, I just have to be nice to you and repay the debt I owe you.”

Twilight did know how to respond to this; she had read about this sort of debt before.

“You are to leave me and all who are a member of the cutie mark crusaders, past, present, and future alone. Also, I may need a favour from you soon.” Diamond Tiara respected how much Scootaloo knew about this deal. Honestly, she had expected her to demand that she left everypony alone, which would not be an honourable request and the deal would be broken, but this was a noble deal so she bowed and left her alone.

Twilight turned to Spike who was checking his hand held. “Do you know what will happen?” Spike nodded. “Sort of. This,” he held up the handheld, “is connected to the Everfree program which allows me to input information, and she can determine the odds of something happening and make predictions from that.”

Twilight looked at him for a few moments. “We have a storm here, right now Dash is out there, I am Dash's daughter, all of this can't be coincidence… well it can, but I don't think it is.”

Spike nodded. “I will have Everfree run the numbers and determine what might happen, but for now you have children to help.” Spike vanished in purple light, and Twilight walked out and back to the library where a very worried-looking Cheerilee stood looking at her.

“You weren't outside, were you?”

Twilight wondered why...Oh yeah she was wet. “No,” Twilight said and Cheerilee looked relieved as Twilight joined Applebloom and Sweetie Belle.

“Listen, students. LISTEN!” The class grew quiet, shocked by the yelling. “You will have to stay here until the storm passes. It is unsafe for you to go home right now. This is a level 3 lockdown.” The class looked really worried; they couldn't remember what a level 3 lockdown meant, but they did know that it was the highest level.

As the class took the next 30 minutes to settle from fear into mild concern and hunger, Twilight walked past all the groups, making sure they were safe and as comfortable as possible.

As the class was talking and playing Cheerilee saw Scootaloo checking on all the students making sure they were comfortable and not scared. She checked and saw her cutie mark hadn't appeared. She watched her student walk up with a list.

Twilight held the list out frustrated without magic. "There is a general concern for the safety of themselves and their families. I suggest reassuring them."

Cheerilee nodded. "What about you Scootaloo? Are you okay?" Twilight sighed holding the list trying to keep balance. "Yes I am Dash will be fine she is probably at home by now." Twilight lied in order to comfort their teacher. Twilight spotted Spike again, he was looking at a drawing. "Cheerilee I need to go to the bathroom."

"Okay dear but use the staff one here do not leave!" twilight saluted and walked in followed by Spike.

"Hey Twilight listen!" Spike held up the hand held.

"You got me all wet!" Twilight yelled angrily. Spike held up his arms defensively sorry but listen carefully this is important." Twilight leaned on the sink. "Go ahead." Spike looked at his hand held. "Okay so Everfree ran the data and there is about a 75% chance that you are here to save Dash from being injured or killed in this storm." Twilight took a deep breath. "How dose it know?"

"I have know idea but I trust the designer."

"Who designed it?"

Spike gestured to her. "You did."

Twilight's mind switched into shut up and think of a bloody plan mode. 'Okay save Dash, I need help.' Twilight walked out and took Applebloom, Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara into the reading room.

"What the Hay?" The yellow mare squealed.

"Okay quickly Diamond Tiara is going to help me because she owes me an honorarble favour."

Diamond Tiara sighed. "What do you want?"

"Mum is out there in the storm and hooves to horse shoes she didn't go home for safety. So she needs my help." Twilight took a deep breath.

"You ain't going out there alone!" Applebloom protested and Sweetie Belle nodded. "She's right we are coming too!"

"I know you are you're as stubborn as me." Diamond Tiara looked terrified. "I vote for not dying in the storm."

Twilight giggled. "You aren't coming!" The look of relief on Tiara's face was instant. "You simply distract Cheerilee while we escape." Diamond Tiara thought about this and then nodded.

Cheerilee was leading the class in a song as Tiara was spotted. "Tiara dear why don't you join us?"

Diamond Tiara started singing. "Frog went a-courtin' and he did ride, uh-huh

Frog went a-courtin' and he did ride, uh-huh

Frog went a-courtin' and he did ride

With a sword and a pistol by his side, uh-huh."

As the class sang along the Cutie Mark Crusaders slipped out relatively unnoticed except a couple of ponies shivering from the quick breeze.

The sun was blocked by the hundreds of clouds that covered the sky. Rainbow Dash flew through the rain, making sure this didn’t cause a flood, or something horrible that she couldn’t even think of. Granted this was probably unnecessary; the other pegasi seemed to think so. Dash had told them that she couldn’t make them stay because flying in this weather was against health and safety. However, she was never one to be scared away. She separated some clouds which made the rain spread.

Lightning struck close to her, the heat radiating off her back for a few seconds. She was scared and felt like giving up, but her thoughts went to all the ponies down below in their houses; they were all relying on her, on Rainbow Dash, the best flier in Ponyville, good enough for the Wonderbolts! Now, Dash felt that taking care of Scootaloo was an experience that had humbled her… at least a little, but when the whole town was literally relying on her? She might as well enjoy the thought.

Below, on the ground, unnoticed by Rainbow Dash. Spike appeared and ran beside Twilight, who was trying desperately to keep the rain out of her eyes. “Spike, go ahead and see if you can find Dash!” Spike nodded and vanished, appearing a few seconds later on a cloud Dash was pushing. He scanned his location and teleported back to Twilight.

“Okay, I know where she is. Follow me.” The three of them ran, Twilight following Spike and the other two following her. They turned into the outskirts of town and ran towards the boutique. Spike stopped in front of a fountain and pointed up.

Dash was hard to miss, a rainbow in the rain. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle started shouting, while Twilight remained quiet as she thought. Then she spoke up. “Are you finished?” The others nodded and Twilight continued. “I need to get closer to Dash. It is way too dangerous for her to fly in this weather.”

Applebloom raised a hoof. “How?” she asked. This was a good question, but Twilight had a really stupid answer that was guaranteed to not work.

“Good question. This is a really stupid answer and probably won’t work. I need Sweetie Belle to levitated me up as high as she can so that Dash can see me.”

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom were in shock. “Last week I levitated my cat. That was hard. You weigh more than a cat... I don’t know the math, but I assume a lot more.”

Twilight nodded. “I know, I’m sorry, and if there was anything I could do to change this I would, but I can’t. Please?”

Sweetie Belle sighed and nodded. Her horn began to glow, and the silver aura surrounded both her horn and her friend. She saw Scootaloo start to float up high, higher than she had floated anything. She winced in pain as the spell pushed her limits, but she didn’t let it stop her. Rainbow Dash was out of earshot and too distracted to notice. The last thing Sweetie Belle heard before passing out was the high pitched scream.

Rainbow Dash heard the scream and saw Scootaloo falling. In the same amount of time it would take most pegasi to think of what they should do, Dash was already diving. Halfway down she realised that it was a pony, then half a second after that she realised it was Scootaloo and sped up, covering the distance separating them in the time it took Rarity to look out the window and think, ‘Huh? What was that noise?’

Rainbow Dash was flying towards her. It was meant to be in slow motion, that’s what she read, the victim falls and everything slows down, but the ground was getting dangerously close just before she felt the soft fur of Rainbow Dash’s arms. She nuzzled into her chest and closed her eyes.

As she felt her whole body relax, she thought that if she was going to be stuck anywhere, she was glad it was with a pony who loved her this much.

Twilight opened her eyes and saw Pinkie’s face smiling at her. “Hi Spike!” she yelled excitedly. In shock, Twilight fell off the bed and turned to the mirror. She saw her small dragon form, looking as scared and confused as she felt.

Equestria Girls HISHE

Twilight opened her eyes. She felt tired, but had been woken by something. She remembered falling and then, just before the crash, she woke up. That was a very weird dream, but she felt that because it related to Rainbow Dash, she really should write to Celestia about it.

Her thoughts caught up to her as she remembered that she wasn't Celestia’s student anymore. She took a deep breath out and yawned, focusing her eyes on her room. The walls were crystal, they sparkled in the sunlight. And she was lying on the floor. She placed her hooves on the floor and noticed how soft it was. She pressed her claws into the tiny bed, and then shot her hands up to her face and stared. ‘Okay, so not a dream then. Great!’

She was a dragon, a baby dragon judging from the size. The colour was purple, so she could be Spike, unless everypony was a dragon. She looked at the door as Pinkie ran in and put her face really close to Twilight’s.

“MORNING, SPIKE!” Pinkie screamed excitedly as Twilight fell out of her bed in shock. She faced a mirror and saw Spike, looking as scared and confused as she felt. Twilight’s mind was racing. ‘Okay, so I’m Spike, I’m in a castle, Pinkie is here possibly with the others, but this castle is different from Canterlot. Note, that means nothing because this is a parallel world. Step one is always to get information, so ask Pinkie non-invasive questions.’

She stood up, trying to maintain her balance in her new bipedal body and using her tail for support like Spike did when he first learned how to walk. She faced Pinkie who was now grinning, waiting for her to reply.

“Good morning, Pinkie. What can I help you with?” Pinkie blinked at that then giggled.

“You’re silly, Spike. Come on, Twilight needs you!” Twilight followed Pinkie and thought.

‘If there is another Twilight here, perhaps I can talk to her about this experiment.’ Then she shook that thought away. If this Twilight wasn't thinking that way before and she told her, then she may start thinking about traveling, and the last thing the Ponyverse needed was that to happen again.

Twilight followed Pinkie quietly through the halls, going as fast as Spike’s legs could carry her. After about five minutes of walking – and in Pinkie’s case, bouncing – they reached a door guarded by two ponies made of crystal. Twilight wondered if all ponies here were crystal; she knew Pinkie wasn’t, but perhaps the ponies that lived here had a magical link to the castle. Her mind was just wondering what this meant for the trade and value of jewels when she crashed into the other Twilight.

“Watch your step, Spike.” Twilight looked at her counterpart and noticed the wings. She looked around and processed the new data as best she could. ‘Okay so Twilight is an Alicorn. Celestia and Luna are, but so is a pink pony I don’t recognise.’ Her mind had a million questions, but focused on the most important. ‘Is Alicorn a rank, or is Twilight in this universe a princess?’ Twilight realised that it wasn't actually important and she wasn’t paying attention to the conversation, so she focused on what was being said rather than her own thoughts.

Celestia spoke up in her calm voice that didn’t demand attention, but simply expected it. “Sunset Shimmer was a former student of mine. She began her studies with me not long before Twilight.”

Twilight looked into her counterpart’s bag and saw the plastic crown. She took it out and held it in front of her as her counterpart spoke up. “She replaced my crown with that one.” Celestia examined it as if to verify that it was indeed fake.

Twilight put the crown back and then asked what she thought was an obvious question. “Sorry if this seems obvious, but how did she sneak in?”

Luna walked to the mirror and looked at her own reflection. “This is no ordinary mirror. It is a portal to another world.”

Pinkie put a hoof through it. “Oooh, sparkly!” Luna rolled her eyes and used her magic to move Pinkie away.

Twilight looked at her counterpart, shocked that she wasn’t asking these questions. But then, maybe she was too enthralled to be in Celestia’s presence to think clearly. Which didn’t make sense, considering she was Celestia’s student and had probably become an alicorn because of her studies. “Did you know the mirror would open?”

The pink alicorn nodded. “It opens once every thirty moons for three nights.”

Twilight was getting annoyed that neither the princesses nor her counterpart thought of what she was about to ask. “Why didn’t you have a pony guard the mirror?” She felt a hoof slap the back of her head. “Oww! What?”

Her counterpart glared at her, using her size to dominate her perception. “Do not ask such unimportant questions, Spike! What matters now is that we get the crown back. Right, Celestia?” Celestia nodded, trying to hide how glad she was that she didn’t have to answer.

Cadence spoke up again. “Twilight, you and Spike must go there and retrieve your crown, before the moon rises to the middle of the sky on the third night. It is of the utmost importance that the crown is returned. Do you understand?”

Rainbow Dash spoke up. “What about us? We need to go to!” Celestia shook her head. “I am sorry Rainbow if all six of you go Equestria willl be undefended.” Dash thought about this but seemed to accept however unwillingly. Twilight didn’t point out that without magic the other elements were useless and her counterpart didn’t seem to know, heck she didn’t actually know for sure. Twilight and her counterpart entered the mirror.

Twilight felt her body being sucked through the portal. She didn’t know for sure, but she imagined that this is what being sucked into a vacuum was like. She saw bright colours speed past her as she felt the magic surrounding her twist the dragon form into strange alien shapes, as if she was being stretched and then morphed into unnatural positions.

As she was about to puke, she realised that the world was no longer spinning, but she was. She fell to the ground, closed her eyes and waited for her head to stop spinning. As she felt less sick, she opened her eyes and stood up on all fours.

Her mind was turning pessimistic again. ‘No no no no no no! Okay, calm down. Did I leap again? I’m a dog, I think, but the mirror is magic, so maybe camouflage? That Twilight can’t get the crown without my help, unless she just made a bad first impression. Which is possible.’

She looked over her new body and took note of the fur, ears and tail. In the span of two seconds or thereabouts, Twilight went from panic to just accepting that things like this were what she should just get used to. Besides, being a dog wasn’t that weird; at least this mission would be easy, unless the crown was heavily guarded by strong magic and possibly guards. But she thought that if that was the case, Sunset Shimmer would of just kept what she had stolen instead of switching it.

After Twilight started to form a plan for a search path that could cover an area of 150 kilometers in about 2 days, she heard a high-pitched wail from behind her. She turned and saw her counterpart screaming her thin spaghetti arms and strange loose fur draping over her dry skin. ‘eww’ Not wanting to draw attention, she ran over and covered her mouth.

“Keep quiet.” Twilight sighed. “We have to find the crown, so we can’t draw attention to ourselves. Understand?” Her counterpart nodded and she removed her paws.

“Where are we, Spike?”

Twilight looked around and saw hideous monsters appearing to be going to a building in the middle of the town. “I think this is a town, probably a parallel to Ponyville, judging by the store names.” She pointed to a shop named Sugar Cube Corner. “We need to search the castle first.” She ran off on all fours and Twilight ran after her.

“They’re bipedal!” Twilight called and watched as her human counterpart stood up. Twilight rolled her eyes and started to walk after her. “And that’s not a castle! It’s either a school or a library! Oh Celestia, it’s gonna be a long day.” She saw someone stare at her. “Woof woof bark grrrr.”

They entered the school and walked down the hall. As Twilight walked beside her counterpart looking for clues, she heard singing. “I've never seen a place that's quite like this.”

Twilight looked around; people were glancing but trying to ignore the singing. “I don't think you should...”

“Everything is turned around this crazy world is upside-down.”

Twilight looked into a classroom. “While I admit that they look a little old to be in school, it's no more strange than anything we've seen...” Twilight saw her counterpart get knocked down by passes by. She ran over to help.

“Getting on my feet, it's the hand that I was dealt.”

Twilight rolled her eyes as they continued walking. “That pun was forced. Also, please stop singing. The natives are getting restless. NO NOT IN THERE… I mean bark!” she yelled as Twilight entered the males’ toilets. A few seconds later she ran out. “Told you!”

“But I don't have much time with them, got to learn all that I can.”

Twilight looked up at her counterpart. “That's gonna take forever. Tell you what, if we have time then we can learn about friendship, okay?”

Her counterpart wasn't listening. “They don't use any magic or fly with any wings.”

Twilight looked around. “Good point! Although I don't think they fly at all, with or without wings. Sorry, that's just pedantic. Uhhh, woof.” They looked into a classroom window.

“I don't get these funny clothes, skinny legs or tiny nose.”

Twilight stared at her for that. “Okay, first, Rarity can make clothes like this – not that she would, they look like they are from the eighties – and second, don't judge these aliens on how they look. That's just mean.”

“Everything's confusing when it seems so new, but I look a little closer and it starts to feel familiar too.”

Twilight smiled at that. “See, there you go. A bright side. Also I don't think they care that you are singing, which is great. You can't even hear me, can you? Woof.”

“What a strange new world, I'm trying to make heads or tails of this strange new world, what a strange new world.”

Twilight jumped up and covered her mouth. “Stop singing and listen.”

They heard whimpering from around the corner and someone yelling. They walked over and stuck their heads around the corner.

“I didn’t know you had dropped it,” said the meek little voice of who was obviously the counterpart of Fluttershy.

“Well, I did, and I was about to get it before you swooped in and ruined everything.” Twilight didn’t know what Sunset Shimmer looked like but she guessed from how much she wanted the crown that this was her. “You shouldn’t pick up things that don’t belong to you!” Shimmer snarled.

“It doesn’t belong to you either.” Twilight was shocked at how none of her friends were helping her, but she didn’t have time to dwell on that. They probably weren’t here, was all.

Her human counterpart yelled at Sunset Shimmer as she walked over to Fluttershy, allowing her to pet her. She found the whole thing rather uncomfortable, but let Fluttershy continue as she seemed to relax. When Sunset Shimmer walked away, her counterpart came back to Fluttershy.

“Are you okay?” Fluttershy nodded, continuing to pet Twilight. “You like my dog?”

Fluttershy beamed. “Yes he is so cute!”

Twilight signaled for her to continue. “You mentioned a crown?”

Fluttershy stood up. “Don’t worry, I gave it to Principal Celestia.”

Her counterpart nodded. “Where is she?”

Fluttershy pointed down a hall. “Third door on your left. Also, better put your dog in your backpack.”

They went outside Celestia’s office. Twilight looked at the bag her counterpart was holding open. “I am not getting in the bag.”

“Sorry, Spike, but you have to. The fact is that pets… animals aren’t allowed in this school.”

Twilight groaned and crawled in. “Fine. Now tell me precisely what you will do.”

Her counterpart groaned and turned her head to face Twilight. “I go in, I ask for the crown, I leave. Okay?”

Twilight sighed and went back into the bag, which was just big enough to be comfortable. She kept her eye on what her counterpart was doing, though. Twilight watched as she bowed, opening the door with her head. Twilight rolled her eyes and whispered, “That’s unnecessary. Stand up straight.” She did so and Twilight listened carefully to what they were saying.

“Can I help you?” Twilight found it odd that the most powerful pony in Equestria was a principal in this world, and giggled at the idea that Mayor Mare outranked Celestia. She was thinking about what this meant, when she realised that it meant nothing. ‘This is simply another parallel like any other place and finding links is simply a coincidence.’ That being said, Twilight was still resentful of the fact that any version of herself would be so easily distracted by status as to not of gotten the crown by now. She peeked out to see what was going on.

“You see, about the crown…” Twilight felt herself get shoved back into the bag and missed the rest of the sentence. She focused and listened to them talk some more. “Princess of the Fall Formal?”

Twilight face-pawed. ‘She’s not going to ask. Princess Twilight Sparkle – a supposedly more badflank version of me with the status and power of a demigoddess – is scared of a principal of a school.’ She felt her bag being swept up, and they were leaving without the crown.

When they turned the corner Twilight stuck her head out of the bag. “Why didn’t you tell her the crown was yours and ask for it back?”

She stopped walking. “I was going to, but imagine if one of them came to Equestria and said they came from a place with fleshy two legged creatures with these?” She waved her arms. “They would think they were crazy.”

“Oh no, these people that I have never met before and will never meet again all think I’m a freak,” Twilight mocked. “Look, it’s not that I hate you. You seem nice enough. I just want to know one little thing, that’s all.”

Her counterpart looked confused and saddened by her friends attitude said, “Nopony said you hated me.”

Twilight sighed. “No, I mustn’t of mentioned it. Listen, did you even think of how you are going to get the crown back?”

Her counterpart exhaled. “Yes of course! All I have to do is make friends, be crowned Fall Formal Princess, get the crown, and then go home. It’s foolproof!”

Twilight just stared at her. “Good thing it’s foolproof, because you are a fool! As intriguing as that plan sounds – and it has ‘make friends’ in it, which I like – I have a better plan.” Twilight took out the fake crown from the bag. “You take this and you either say, ‘I come from a world of candy coloured horses with unicorns and friendship. That is my crown, it’s magic, and I need it back’. Or you lie and say you made that other crown based on this one, and there was a mix up.” Twilight held the crown towards her counterpart.

Her counterpart looked uncertain, however. “I don’t know, Spike. Lying to Celestia won’t be easy, and she won’t believe I’m magic.”

Twilight growled despite herself. “Plan C. We… YOU tell Celestia that YOU didn’t get the crown back because YOU WERE TOO SCARED! And I stop being your assistant, because frankly you are a failure. Woof!” Twilight could hardly believe that she was being this harsh. If it were Fluttershy she would never say or think this, but because it was her – or at least very similar to her – she was being as cruel as she felt angry.

Her counterpart took the crown and turned back. “You’re right, Spike. Mean, but right. I will do that.” Twilight sighed with relief as she saw her go back to Celestia.

Twilight stood on a table, peering through the window as her counterpart talked to Celestia. She hoped that the overly aggressive talk she gave her was at least effective. It looked like this would take a while, so Twilight sat on the table and scratched her ear with her back right paw.

As she waited, she spotted Spike as he appeared in front of her. He stared at her for a few seconds, then shook away whatever his immediate thought was. Instead he opted for something safer. “Hello Twilight, nice collar, very spikey.”

She looked at Spike, who was dressed up for something. “Hello, Spike. Where the heck have you been? I’ve had a really bad day.”

Spike nodded and took out his handheld. “Everfreee was linked to the other world. I’m lucky I got here at all.”

Twilight seemed tired. “I can tell you were really excited, you even got dressed up.”

Spike looked at his suit as if noticing it for the first time. “Oh, right. Well, I was actually on a date, but I came over as soon as I heard we got a link.”

Twilight nodded absent mindedly. “I’m sure Rarity will be disappointed.” Spike shrugged. “I don’t like this Twilight. She seems to be obsessing on fitting in. She would actually sacrifice her own planet to not be called a freak! Can you believe that?”

Spike shrugged again and looked at his screen. “According to Everfree, you won’t be able to leave until all links between this world and the other one are broken.”

It took a while for Twilight to fully grasp the horror of what Spike had just said. Then, when she realised, she panicked. She wished that she could just leave and go back to Equestria and then go somewhere else. She knew that not everypony was as stupid as this Twilight, probably, but she was now Spike so she would have to be with her until they got back. Twilight didn’t know if they measured time the same here as in her world, but if they did, thirty moons meant thirty months. Staying here in the human world for that long was not an option in her mind, so she did what she knew how to do: make lists.

“Okay, Spike, so we have a few things that we know, okay? One, this Twilight is much more needy than me. Her desire to conform means she doesn’t think straight. Two, the portal closes in about two and a half days. Three, if I’m right, Sunset Shimmer doesn’t have much power here – maybe she’s a bully like Babs Seed was. Four, friendship – while amazing – is not necessary here. Five, we need to get Sunset Shimmer home if possible. Six, getting the crown home is top priority; we can not sacrifice our chances to get the crown home for anything.”

Twilight took a deep breath and focused her gaze on Spike as he vanished while trying to speak. The link was lost; Twilight was alone. She sat in the bag and waited, already making new plans.

A few minutes later, Twilight saw the door to Celestia’s office open and heard two voices continue their conversation. “I’m honoured that you wanted to do an art project based on our crown, and I still don’t understand why you didn’t just tell me.”

Her counterpart sighed nervously. “I just got flustered, that’s all. Thank you again, Celestia.” Celestia smiled and slammed the door.

Twilight stuck her head out and snatched the crown away. She looked around carefully and then put it in the bag. “Good job, Twilight. Now do you know what we should do?”

Her counterpart nodded. “Yep, go home. We have the crown – let’s leave.” Twilight sighed and looked at her paws.

“About that… we need to bring Shimmer with us. I know she’s not too dangerous here, but why risk having someone with magical knowledge running around?”

Twilight’s counterpart thought about this carefully for a few seconds. “How do we do that? Should we get help?”

Twilight shook her head. “I don’t think there is any real reason to involve them, especially since we don’t want to risk an interdimensional incident. If we need help, we will, but I think we can handle this ourselves.”

Her counterpart smiled. “You have a plan, then?”

Twilight nodded and began explaining. “Yes, I do. We use the crown as bait. First we find Sunset Shimmer. Then we show her the crown so she chases us. Then we push her into the statue. Our priorities are as follows: first, we return the crown; second, we take Shimmer – if we can’t get her, that’s fine. We will just get her power source out of her reach.”

Her counterpart nodded slowly, thinking. “Just one thing. What happens if Shimmer gets the crown?”

Twilight growled. “Then we fail!”

Twilight hid in her counterpart’s bag, holding the crown close to her and listening carefully. Among the background chatter, she heard a familiar voice growing louder as the owner came closer.

“Watch yer step, Big Mac.”

“Eeyup!” Twilight looked up to see Applejack and her brother walking towards them. Twilight’s counterpart walked up to them and waved. “Hello there, my name is Twilight Sparkle.”

Applejack’s smile grew to be about as big as her face as she shook Twilight’s hand. “Well, howdy there! I’m Applejack and this big lug is my brother Big Macintosh.” She smacked Big Mac hard, making him almost drop the crates of cider. “What can I do for ya?” Twilight stuck her head out and Applejack spotted her. ‘Well, isn’t he just the cutest little thing. Rarity will just adore ya.”

Twilight hid again as her counterpart spoke up. “As much as Spike would love to spend time with Rarity, I actually need to talk to Sunset Shimmer. Do you know where she is?”

Applejack scowled and the atmosphere got colder. “What do ya want to talk to that back wooded, pear eating little sh-”

“APPLEJACK!” Big Mac cut her off and Applejack took a few seconds to control her anger.

“Why do you want to talk to her?” Applejack corrected.

Twilight’s counterpart looked flustered but pressed on. “We-I have something she needs to hear.”

Applejack nodded knowingly. Of course, it was so obvious. Sunset Shimmer clearly did something to upset the poor girl. Twilight needed her help, though, so there was nothing for it. “I was headin’ to the main hall to drop off the cider. She might be there, she really likes to interfere with school affairs.”

Twilight was interested in Applejack’s disdain for Sunset Shimmer, and resolved to help Sunset not be so mean when they got back to Equestria. Then she realised she would leave before she got the chance. She wondered what Sunset’s plan with the crown was. Twilight didn’t know what happens to the crown in another world, but there is no real reason Sunset should know either. Twilight smiled as she realised, despite how much Sunset Shimmer had been built up, she was no more than a bratty teenager reminiscent of Diamond Tiara, and therefore should be relatively easy to deal with.

As they arrive at the hall, Sunset Shimmer could be heard giving someone the once over, pointing out trivial things about the decorations. “This is too pink! It should be red and yellow! And that beverage table should be over there, and what is with all these streamers? Do you want the guests to feel confined?” Sunset Shimmer went on and on until she spotted the four – no, wait, she was in the bag, so – three of them at the table looking at her. “What do you want?”

She glared and Applejack was in the middle of her first syllable when Sunset Shimmer cut her off. “Hey what is that?” Twilight held out the crown and then her counterpart wisely bolted. Sunset Shimmer gave chase and shouted, “She’s got the crown! The new girl has stolen the crown! Stop her!”

Twilight and her counterpart looked behind them as Sunset, Applejack and Pinkie Pie chased them. Twilight’s counterpart burst outside and ran down the football field, past Rainbow Dash and Rarity; Rainbow Dash was on the side line of the football field with Rarity who was Dash’s and presumably the rest of the teams cheerleader.

“Applejack, what the hell?” Rainbow Dash shouted. Applejack stopped as the others ran past.

“Sorry to interrupt whatever you girls were doin’, but we need yer help.”

Applejack took a few deep breaths as Rarity coughed. “We weren’t doing anything yet.”

Rainbow Dash waved at her to keep quiet. “Shh, that’s not important. What happened, AJ?”

Applejack caught her breath. “The new girl stole the crown.”

Rainbow Dash sighed. “Oh is that all?” Rarity hit her and looked shocked at Dash’s dismissal of such an important artifact.

“Dashie! Do not dismiss the crown! It is very important to the school.” Dash shrugged. “And me,” Rarity finished.

And at that Rainbow Dash joined the chase. “Don’t worry I shall return the crown for you, my dear!”

Rarity smirked and ran beside Dash. “I will be right with you all the way!”

Twilight jumped out of the bag and ran beside her counterpart, crown in her mouth trying not to drop it. She didn’t spot them following her anymore so she slowed down.

“That was close come on quickly to the statue.” Her counterpart didn’t question her she just turned to the direction of the statue.

As Twilight approached the statue, she saw it being blocked by the five students – Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Sunset Shimmer. Twilight’s counterpart and Twilight sighed of exhaustion and an overwhelming urge to just give up. “Where’s Fluttershy?”

Twilight was also curious at the absence but Applejack explained. “She’s at the shelter, but if she were here, she would be helping stop you from stealing the crown.”

Twilight jumped into the bag. “Twilight repeat after me.”

Twilight’s counterpart repeated all she heard. “Why are you blocking a statue?”

Pinkie Pie snorted. “Because you are here obviously!”

Twilight smiled, figuring out how to word these questions. “So you think I will run through a statue?”

Applejack tilted her hat up. “No, of course not. That would be silly.”

Twilight’s counterpart nodded when Twilight told her too. “Would you mind clearing a space to the statue so that I can show you something really cool?”

Sunset Shimmer shouted in horror, “No, don’t let her, it’s a trap! You would trust her over me?”

Rainbow Dash pushed her aside and Applejack spoke up. “I don’t even like you. The only reason I’m here is to get the crown.”

Dash smiled holding Shimmer back. “Don’t worry, Shimmer. If she runs, we will just chase her again.”

Rarity sighed. “Please don’t run. I don’t want to run in heels again.”

Dash smiled and kissed her hand. “Don’t worry, my dear, I shall carry you along our merry chase.” Twilight rolled her eyes at the absurdity and her counterpart threw the crown. It flew over their heads, and as they all watched, it hit the statue and vanished. They all were shocked at what they had just seen and turned to Twilight.

Sunset Shimmer grew red hot and snapped, her red and yellow hair appearing to become flame. “You idiot, you ruined EVERYTHING!”

She tackled Twilight’s double as Twilight ran to Applejack. “All that effort, ruined, because you couldn’t mind your own business!” Sunset Shimmer was choking Twilight’s double before rope came forward and pulled Sunset Shimmer off her.

“That’s enough!” Applejack tied up Sunset Shimmer.

“Okay, now. Twilight, explain exactly what is going on, right now!” Rainbow Dash ordered.

Twilight’s counterpart sighed and started explaining. “I am from another world, and the crown is a magical item that I need to return in order to maintain balance. Sunset Shimmer is also from my world; I need to take her back as well.” The group looked at her like she was crazy. “Oh, right. I present Spike, my talking dog, as proof.”

Twilight nodded. “She’s right, I am a talking dog, woof and whatever.”

Suddenly, the earth shook and the wind blew as everyone looked. They saw a yellow and pink blur coming towards them. Fluttershy’s face was uncomfortably close to Twilight’s. “You can talk?” Fluttershy asked with a huge smile.

Twilight looked a little alarmed. “Yes.” Fluttershy squeed and started to ask about a million questions but before she could answer her counterpart interjected.

“We really should go. I’m sorry, Fluttershy.” Twilight’s counterpart grabbed Sunset and pushed her through the portal. “Oh, one thing. Go to the library in town and see if a girl named Twilight is there. She will be shy, so be gentle and see if you can make friends with her.”

Twilight looked at her counterpart. “You are in such a rush, Twilight. We won’t be coming back, so we should say goodbye properly. Geez, I don’t know where she learned her manners from.” Twilight smiled at Fluttershy. “It’s been a pleasure to meet you all, wish I could stay.”

Rainbow Dash was looking at the portal curiously. “Can we go there?”

Twilight’s counterpart shook her head. “No, sorry, against the rules. Besides, you have your lives here, and judging by your friendship with these girls, it’s a good one.”

Rainbow Dash nodded. “Yeah, but magic!”

Rarity coughed. “I can’t go, I have to take care of Sweetie Belle.”

Rainbow Dash sighed. “Fine, I won’t go then! Geez, magic, Rarity. You and your loyalty to your sister, it’s so god damn…”

“Sexy?” Rarity offered with a smirk.

“Annoying was the word I was going to use.” Rarity hit Dash again.

“You two need to cool it.” Applejack said. “If you ever come back, don’t hesitate to visit the farm. We need to get to know each other.”

Twilight’s counterpart smiled and hugged her. “I look forward to it. Come on, Spike, let’s go home.” Twilight ran through the portal as her counterpart followed.

When they arrived, they found themselves face to face with Sunset Shimmer, the remaining five, and the princesses. As Twilight’s counterpart was talking to Celestia, Twilight went to Cadence.

“Can you close the portal now?” Cadence nodded and did so, quietly and unnoticed by the others. In fact, they didn’t notice anything Twilight was doing, until they heard the glass smash. They all turned to face her with shocked looks on their face. “What?”

But Twilight never figured out ‘what’ was as their voices were drained out by rushing wind, and for a moment everything turned black. After a few seconds, she saw that she was somewhere else and thought, ‘What now?’

Wedding Belles

The sun shone through the window as Twilight watched a bird fly by, some ponies were sitting in the garden below the window with their friends or family, visitors of some kind Twilight couldn’t tell. All she knew was that this was some sort of pony caring facility and if she was here as a patient she couldn’t freak out. She had nearly freaked out, her heart hadn’t quite gone back to it’s normal pace yet but she tried to hide that from the doctors.

Twilight looked around her purple mane covering her left eye, as she brushed it aside she saw the four other patients all talking to family who just came to visit today. Twilight didn’t feel sick and she wasn’t in quarantine plus she was drinking tea from a cup that she thought she remembered Rarity owning.

‘White fur purple mane Rarity’s cup all strong signs of me being Rarity but I still don’t know why she is in here or what she acts like but considering what I know about how this travelling thing seems to be working, I think she might be exactly the same as from my world, except with some key changes. It’s the key changes that matter the most especially if they brought her here.’

Twilight looked at the clock on the wall and noticed the hooves said eight o’clock and she thought that she should really talk to a doctor.

“Oh right,” Twilight got up and walked to a nurse who was preparing medicine, as she approached the nurse gave her a practiced smile.

“Hello Rarity what can I help you with darling?”

Twilight was very careful to try not to alarm her, “I would like to speak to that nice doctor from yesterday. Is he in?”

The nurse smiled and called him, “he will be here in a few moments.” Twilight thanked her and walked back to her chair. She sipped the rest of her tea waiting for the doctor to arrive. After about 25 minutes he did with a suit on and a file.

‘So not MD, must be psychology, this is gonna suck.’ Twilight didn't know what mental disorder to fake but she knew it was bad enough to get Rarity put in a caring facility.

The doctor sat down beside her smiling. “Rarity I’m honoured that you asked for me.” Twilight smiled and nodded. “Do you remember why?”

Twilight mentally sighed. ‘Thank Celestia the condition involves memory. That would sound bad out of context.’ Twilight put her tea down and thought for a few seconds. “Doctor do I have anything planned for today?” Twilight mentally congratulated herself. ‘Excellent non invasive and it could slip the mind of anypony let alone one with memory issues.’

The doctor nodded and handed her an envelope with a silver ribbon and golden in writing. Twilight read the contents.

Sweetie Belle

and

Spike

request the pleasure of the company of

Rarity

to share in the celebration of our marriage

at Sweet Apple Acres

Ponyville

on 16th October 1035

at 4:00 p.m.

and afterwards at

Sugar Cube Corner

Ponyville

at 5:00 p.m.

dress Rarity original dresses for mares and Rarity original suits for stallions.

rsvp date of delivery

to told to the pony who delivered it

Twilight stared at the invitation as she mentally swore, ‘the doctor didn’t seem surprised at least, I need a plausible reason to be able to help but what? Oh right I’m here.’

Twilight smiled at the doctor. “Is Twilight coming to the wedding?”

The doctor nodded. “I believe she mentioned it to me. Why?”

“May I borrow some paper and a quill?” The doctor nodded and went to fetch some, as he did Twilight spotted Spike. “Oh and some tea dear!” She levitated her cup over to him as her went to the kitchen.

“No jokes right now okay? Not in the mood.” Spike nodded and held out the hand held.

“Fine but it’ll go against everything I am.” Twilight rolled her eyes.

“I’m okay with that, do you know what’s wrong with Rarity?”

Spike nodded. “According to Everfree there is a 95% chance she has dementia or at least has the same symptoms for a different reason.”

Twilight sighed. “How long?” Spike shrugged. “It had to be for a while though. I have two plans one relies on luck and if it works you would think she would of used it by now. Twilight knows about this I assume she has the same background as I do and if that’s the case she may have a plan.”

Spike nodded. “And if she doesn't?”

Twilight sighed. “Then I will pretend it is due to the power of love or friendship or something.” Twilight rubbed between her eyes. “Spike just tell me this is it okay? For me to sacrifice one pony’s happiness for another one’s?” Spike faded without answering. “Yeah I thought you’d say that.”

The doctor walked back with some tea and writing utensils. “Thank you doctor.” He smiled as the quill and padd floated to the desk and Twilight wrote a letter. “Tell me doctor is Twilight in Ponyville today?”

The doctor nodded. “Princess Twilight is attending the wedding this afternoon.” Twilight finished the note as she mentally added another Princess Twilight to the list. ‘Apparently these parallel worlds are alternate timelines which makes things similar. If I was here and my friend was losing her mind, I would try to fix it.’

‘Dear Twilight Sparkle

If I remember you correctly and I have been told I may not but if I do you have a plan to help. I don’t know why you haven’t tested it but I can only imagine it is because of how dangerous it is. Attending this wedding is the single most important thing I can do in this entire universe. Please visit me today before the wedding.

Your Loving Friend

Rarity’

Twilight gave the note to the doctor. “You can read this note if you promise to go directly to Twilight and give it to her.”

The doctor agreed and read it eyes widening and he shook her hoof. “I will bring her here before the day is out, I Pinkie promise.”

The doctor walked down the street and took a coach down town to The Boutique, which was actually being used for the first time in 15 years. Sweetie Belle had said that if Rarity needed her to let her know and told him she would be here with her friends. He knocked and heard the sound die down as a mare in a bow with a red mane answered.

“Can I help ya with sometin?”

The doctor nodded and removed his hat. “Good morning ma’am my name is Doctor Hooves is Sweetie Belle in?”

Applebloom stepped out closing the door quietly. “Listen to me carefully, this is the single most important day of Sweetie Belle’s life and whatever news you have regarding Rarity can wait until afterwards okay? If you feel she can’t come I will tell her.” Applebloom sounded like she had practiced this speech a dozen times.

“I apologize and no, I believe she can come, The reason I came was to ask her where I may be able to find Princess Sparkle.”

Applebloom was suspicious of this development. “Why?”

The doctor smiled. “Confidential business, do you know where she is?”

Applebloom pointed down the street. “Sugar Cube Corner you can’t miss it.”

He bowed and walked down to where a loud party was happening, he vaguely wondered why, then remembered the stories of the town’s party planner.

As he caught a whiff of caramel he knocked on the door. When it opened a yellow pegasus with a fading pink mane answered. “Hello,” she said with a soft hesitant voice that he only heard over the music due to the effort and his experience with blocking out loud noises.

His first instinct like anypony else’s was to yell but he had been in this line of work long enough to know that he should always think first. So after about three seconds he knelt in front of the shy pony and smiled a small smile that invited comfort.

“Hello there.” he said with a soft voice that he made sure she could hear over the music. “My name is Dr Hooves can I speak to Twilight please?”

Fluttershy shut the door, he straightened up and waited admiring the garden when the door opened again. When he turned around and Princess Twilight Sparkle gave off a confident aura that made him smile.

“I would bow but I don’t think you would like that.” Twilight smiled and waited cider in her hooves. “My name is Dr Hooves and I have a letter for you.”

Twilight levitated the letter over to her and read it. Her eyes widened. “That’s exactly what I said.” Twilight looked at him. “Does this mean she is aware of what’s going on?”

The doctor nodded. “For now yes but it won’t last, if it hasn’t faded already. So I suggest that if she is right you come to visit her as soon as possible. If she isn’t right she wants you for another reason and her mind created this scenario so you should come anyway.”

That afternoon as Twilight was finishing her lunch the purple princess walked in and sat beside her. “Hello darling how are you today?”

Princess Twilight smiled and levitated the potion. “I brought you some tea it has some interesting effects but is very rare so this is a one time thing. Drink this and you will have a perfect day.”

‘Well my mission is over, Rarity can drink that get her memories back for the day everything will be maybe not perfect but pretty good all things considered.’ Twilight was disappointed to find less blue than she had expected. She sighed and her horn glowed levitating the tea to her lips.

Twilight poured the tea into her mouth teleporting it into a water bottle without the princess noticing. When the flask was empty she hugged the princess.

“Thank you Twilight.” She said and Princess Twilight hugged her back.

“This won’t last so have a great day.” Princess Twilight left the room to talk with the doctor and Twilight took the water bottle and transported the contents back into the flask wrapping it up.

Spike sat on the windowsill watching her. “Why did you do that?”

Twilight wrote a label. “This is their last day together with Rarity fully aware. I only needed it for an excuse to be normal, Rarity will actually need it.”

Spike smiled. “Twilight if I wasn’t a hologram I would kiss you.”

Twilight smirked. “Down boy you don’t want Rarity to be jealous.” Spike laughed and disappeared. “I must ask how he keeps track of me one of these days.”

“I don’t see why Twilight couldn’t take me I mean aren’t I her experiment.”

Fluttershy looked a little lost for words then after a while she smiled and went for something that would be unlikely to offend the newly recovered mare. “Twilight is the Princess and is doing the actual ceremony Rarity. Don’t worry I’ll take care of you.”

Twilight knew she didn’t need to be taken care of but considering that

They didn’t know that.

Once she left Rarity would be vulnerable again and most importantly

Rarity’s friends were already alienated from her and she wasn’t about to make it worse.

“Thank you Fluttershy I really appreciate it.” Twilight didn’t know how normal she could act as she didn’t know the effects of the potion but she could think of a way around that easily and this was Sweetie Belle’s wedding. “Why Spike?”

Fluttershy giggled. “Sweetie Belle and Spike started dating when… About 7 years ago and they grew close, I thought it was kind of cute when I first found out.”

Twilight laughed. “To think he started out having a silly little crush on me. I’m glad they are doing well.” Fluttershy kept quiet making sure she didn’t offend her in any way. “Do the others know I’m coming?”

Fluttershy nodded. “Twilight told them the potion worked and I was sent to pick you up.”

Twilight hugged the old pegasus. “Thank you darling.”

The door to Sugar Cube Corner opened with a creek. “You should fix that.” Twilight commented as she followed Fluttershy in.

“We are back girls.” Fluttershy wondered why the music was soft as they entered the room where they were having a fashion show a few hours earlier.

The two ponies heard whispering from the kitchen, Fluttershy nudged her. “Go on in.”

Twilight stepped over empty cider bottles and entered the larger kitchen. She saw all her friends there, Applejack was trying to hide the cider, Pinkie wasn’t bothering, Rainbow Dash didn’t look like she had a drop and they all stared at her unsure what to say or do.

“Hello girls.” Twilight said with a smile that was meant to reassure but didn't seem to work.

Twilight decided to be direct heck they did think she drank a potion. Twilight raised her hoof and pointed to them one by one "Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, I'm Rarity, Twilight is a princess and my sister Sweetie Belle is marrying Spike which I assume means he will stop hitting on me."

He friends laughed and hugged her, except for Applejack who was concerned. "How long will whatever Twilight did last?"

Twilight hugged her. "All day so let's make it a good one."

The ponies turned up the music again and Pinkie took the mic. "Welcome back mares, welcoming to the stage for her special guest appearance. Wearing La Gem in Nine, the lovely Rarity." Twilight cat walked down the runway in an emerald green dress with actual emeralds on the rim.

As the party was getting into full swing again Rainbow Dash silently flew out and speeding up as much as she felt necessary. She flew to the boutique a and knocked. Scootaloo answered and even though she wasn't as enthralled by Dash as she used to be, she still couldn't help but do a double take at Dash's unexpected arrival.

“Hey squirt.” Scootaloo smiled, you can call her a lot of things but not squirt, not anymore. Scootaloo stepped out and closed the door.

“Hi Dash what is it?” Rainbow Dash smiled and stood up tall as if reading a royal decree. “I have been sent to deliver an important message to Sweetie Belle is she in?”

Scootaloo rolled her eyes. “Yes of course but she is rather busy may I deliver it?”

Rainbow Dash dropped the act. “The lovely Miss Rarity is at Sugar Cube Corner and wishes to see her sister. Tell her she is asking for Sweetie Belle.”

Scootaloo nodded and headed back inside and back to where her friends were putting on make up. “Who was it Scootaloo?” Applebloom looked at her as the pegasus, sat down and prepared for her session with the spa ponies.

Scootaloo leaned back and said. “Rainbow Dash said Rarity was asking for Sweetie Belle.” Sweetie Belle jumped out of her chair surprising the spa ponies and ran out without a second look.

Sweetie Belle ran down the street ruining all the progress the spa ponies had made on her. She even ran over mud on her way to Sugar Cube Corner, to her sister who had asked for her for the first time in 4 years. After ten minutes of non stop running she arrived at Sugar Cube Corner. Noting the mess Sweetie Belle brushed herself off and knocked on the door.

When Applejack opened it Sweetie Belle looked past her and filtered out the music and the empty bottles, she had eyes only for her sister. Rarity seemed happy and aware of everything after about a million years Sweetie Belle looked at Applejack. “How?”

Applejack smiled. “Twilight, she made a potion took her years to make it but she did it.”

Sweetie Belle smiled. “Twilight is very kind.” Applejack nodded looking at the messy unicorn.

Twilight turned to face them and then walked over, quickly but not running because that would be uncivilized. She stopped and frowned down at her.

"Sweetie Belle you're a mess!" Her eyes filled with tears as Sweetie Belle hugged her sister.

Nopony besides the two of them could hear Sweetie Belle's sobs. Her mascara sticking to the white coat. Twilight hugged Sweetie Belle wishing Rarity was doing this instead of her.

After a minute Sweetie Belle calmed down, at least as much as she could considering the circumstances. "Rarity, how? How is this possible?"

Twilight smiled through Rarity's lips. "Thank Twilight she made the potion."

Sweetie Belle nuzzled her just like she did when she was in school. "Seriously though why Spike?"

Sweetie Belle laugh and backed away a looking at the beautiful mare. "Because he was kind to me and helped me when I needed it. We grew close and one thing lead to another as they say."

Twilight smiled she was regretting taking this away from Rarity but she took comfort in knowing Sweetie Belle was happy. In fact as missions go this was simple at least. All she has to do was be here. She sighed.'This is gonna suck.'

"Sweetie Belle." Sweetie Belle looked at her smiling her mascara running down her cheek. Twilight dabbed it with a handkerchief. "Are you happy with how things turned out?"

Sweetie Belle took a moment to think of her answer. She thought of the years she spent with her sister all the times her heart broke when Rarity called her Applebloom. All the times she found comfort in her sister's actions proving she was still herself. She thought of Spike the sweet and strong dragon who cared for her through it all. "I love you and even though it's hard it's always worth it."

Twilight hugged Sweetie Belle again and did what she knew was right She had a day with her but she was getting married. "Sweetie Belle you need to go back to your friends. I will be here all day and you have a wedding."

Sweetie Belle kissed her cheek and despite all her mind protested she left the room. She was halfway back to the boutique to get pampered when what Rarity said hit her. 'All day' "She will forget but she is back for the day. That's more than enough."

When they first imagined their wedding back when Sweetie Belle was still in college, Spike wanted to go to Canterlot so did Sweetie Belle but when he proposed and the wedding became a real thing they decided to move it to Sweet Apple Acres so that Rarity could be there without much risk of an incident.

As Fluttershy walked beside Twilight to the set up done by Pinkie, who managed to sneak in some streamers their worries seemed to be for not.

‘But let’s face it’ Twilight thought looking around. ‘Who could of seen this coming?’

Twilight looked at the guests’ clothes, the invitation said ‘Rarity originals,’ and these looked new it made Twilight feel happy to know that Rarity was still making clothes.

‘When you have nothing left you take pride in what you do have.’ Twilight looked around to the ponies mostly they were Sweetie Belle’s friends from school about six of them were wearing the cutie mark crusaders logo as badges.

Besides school friends and ponies Twilight didn’t recognize there was Applejack, Fluttershy, her, Pinkie and Rainbow Dash. The only ponies missing were the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Princess Twilight and Spike.

“Where is Twilight?” Applejack adjusted her hat and Twilight wondered whether she already told Rarity.

“Twilight is helping Spike who I saw smoking when we arrived.”

Twilight sighed. “Oh the poor dragon he always let’s out smoke when he get’s nervous. He must be a nervous wreck.”

Applejack nodded and gave her a sideward look but said nothing. “Oh is that Diamond Tiara?”

Diamond Tiara was talking with a black alicorn, Twilight didn’t blink she was a dog last time. Applejack shrugged.

“Yes why don’t you talk to her?” Fluttershy smiled encouragingly nudging Twilight towards her.

Diamond Tiara looked up and was shocked to see Rarity walking to her. “Hello dear.” Tiara looked over to Fluttershy. “It’s okay Tiara.”

Diamond Tiara from the alicorn to her, “Excuse me I have to take this.” She nodded and flew away. “Hello Rarity can I help you with something?”

Twilight smiled and nodded. “Since when are you and my sister friends?”

Diamond Tiara sighed. “If I tell you, will you even remember?”

Twilight took some Le Cider and sipped it. “Probably not but you will remember telling me.”

DIamond Tiara nodded. “Well I used to be a real...really mean during school especially to Sweetie Belle and her friends.”

Twilight smiled. “You were a jerk, good start.”

Diamond Tiara looked at her for a bit. “I printed a story saying that you had been forgetting things and were a danger to your friends and family.”

“Wow you suck at justifying why you are here.” Diamond Tiara stared at her own empty cup for a few seconds before continuing.

“When it turned out that I was right and all the crap happened to you and to her, Silver Spoon informed me that I was a colossal jerk.” Diamond Tiara tapped her chest. “That get’s you right here you know? So I decided to try and help her and here we are seven years later.”

Twilight hugged her. “Thank you for helping Sweetie Belle she needs it.”

Diamond Tiara spread her arms out shocked by the sudden hug. “I don’t hug.”

Twilight backed away as a voice announced. “Mares and Gentlecolts please prepare the groom is arriving.”

“Come on dear we should find our spots.” Fluttershy took Twilight to the others, they were out the front. The doors open and Spike walked in and was quite a bit bigger than the last time Twilight saw him. He walked in and everypony raised their candles Twilight who had read about this panicked and ducked as Spike blew green fire lighting all the candles.

Fluttershy looked down at her. “Rarity it’s okay see?” Fluttershy held her own candle to Twilight’s face and as she stared at the emerald flame she remembered that this particular flame doesn’t produce heat. Dragons don’t use it for this ceremony usually but of course Spike would. She focused her eyes and noticed a soft green tinge to the whole room.

“That dragon knows how to make an entrance.” Fluttershy giggled putting the candle in the position.

Twilight saw Spike speaking to Rarity’s parents and even though she didn't have Rarity's brain, which all things considered was probably a good thing, she did have Rarity's mussels and they weren't used to standing this long.

"Fluttershy dear, can you please inform Spike that I wish to speak with him when he has a moment."

Fluttershy looked concerned. "Are you okay Rarity?"

Twilight nodded. "Fine dear I just need to rest these old hooves." Twilight walked to a small table watching the conversation between the pegasus and dragon until a waiter walked to her. "Anything for you ma'am?" Twilight smiled. "Tea please."

The waiter nodded. "Right away ma'am."

As he went to get tea Spike sat in front of her. "I heard you were marrying my sister."

Spike chuckled. "I heard you were asking why Sweetie Belle would do something that crazy."

"I assumed it was some kind of magic."

Spike chuckled and shrugged. "Maybe, what do you think?"

Twilight poured the tea and took a sip. "If friendship is magic imagine what love could be."

"A giant, purple, changeling destroying shield."

Twilight rolled her eyes. "Shut up."

Spike laughed. "I'm glad you could be here

Rarity."

Twilight smiled. "Me too."

"Will you remember?"

Twilight shook her head sadly. "One day only."

Spike hugged her, his eyes started to glaze over as he nuzzled her cheek. After another minute of talking Spike said his farewells and went back to the others. He didn’t want anything bad to happen to Rarity but he had been through enough to know that he couldn’t stop it. So instead opted for having this day go perfectly for everypony and allowing Rarity to experience the wedding as a whole.

As Twilight took another sip of tea wishing for hot cocoa instead her Spike appeared and sat in front of her. “If you're a hologram how are you sitting?”

Spike rolled his eyes. “My lab assistant put a chair down to line up with the seat. Are you really going to concern yourself with trivial matters?”

Twilight took another sip. “No there is something far more important. I am concerned with, the long term welfare of Sweetie Belle.”

Spike watched her put her tea down and dab at her chin in what was a frightenly good imitation of what Rarity would do. “I see and you aren’t concerned about Rarity?”

Twilight nodded. “Yes of course but Sweetie Belle is my priority. Rarity’s mental health is not something I can make all better. Well clearly I could, I did invent a potion after all but I haven’t got the time or resources to do it.”

“So what is your plan?” Spike was looking at the hand held ready to give Twilight numbers on how likely her plan was to succeed.

“I’m going to make sure Sweetie Belle has a great wedding not by interfering but simply by being here.”

Spike didn’t put in numbers. “That’s it?”

“That’s it.” Twilight replied. “This isn’t the entire world or life threatening danger this is a mare’s happiness and this time simple is better.”

“Mares and Gentlecolts the bride will be arriving momentarily.”

Fluttershy flew over and tapped Twilight’s shoulder. “Come on Rarity we should go to our seats.” Twilight followed Fluttershy and sat in the second row behind but not separate from her parents though only her mother could be seen. Twilight smiled realising that of course this was planned for a Rarity that needed her friends with her.

About ten minutes later, after Spike had acquired enough time to get into position straighten his suit and gotten really nervous the music started to play, the doors opened and Sweetie Belle walked in, she was being lead by a filly Twilight didn’t recognise and followed by her two friends, beside her was a stallion Twilight guessed was her father.

Sweetie Belle was the center of attention though, her beautiful dress flowing over her complimenting her body the traditional white being used as a base for the beautiful jeweled trim. She wasn’t wearing much jewelry but Twilight found it hard to ignore the red, heart shaped ruby in her necklace.

After an eternity of having everypony staring at her Sweetie Belle finally reached the darling dragon.

“Do I look beautiful Spike?” Sweetie Belle was worried that her dress and makeup wasn’t right.

“You always look beautiful and now you are also wearing a beautiful dress.” Sweetie Belle blushed, sure he probably rehearsed that response but it was good.

“Shall we begin?” Princess Twilight asked and the two nodded.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of Celestia, and in the face of this company, to join together this Dragon and this Mare in holy Matrimony; which is an honourable estate, instituted of Celestia, signifying unto us the mystical union that is betwixt Luna and her Castle: which holy estate Luna adorned and beautified with her presence and first miracle that she brought us the moon, and is commended of Star Swirl the Bearded to be honourable among all ponies and in this case dragons.”

There was scattered chuckling in the crowd Spike looked at Princess Twilight but she didn’t notice.

“And therefore is not by any to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly; but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, soberly, and in the fear of Celestia. Into this holy estate these two ponies present come now to be joined.”

Sweetie Belle and Spike looked into each others eyes, Sweetie Belle knew this speech by Twilight was important but she really was just waiting for, ‘You may now kiss the bride.’

“If any mare can show just cause, why they may not lawfully be joined together, let them now speak, or else hereafter forever hold her peace.”

Spike turned to the crowd. “But before you do I would like to remind you all I am a terrifying fire breathing dragon.” He turned back as some members of the crowd chuckled.

“I require and charge you both, as ye will answer at the dreadful day of judgment when the secrets of all hearts shall be disclosed, that if either of you know any impediment, why ye may not be lawfully joined together in Matrimony, ye do now confess it. For be ye well assured, that if any ponies are joined together other than as Celestia's word doth allow, their marriage is not lawful.”

Twilight took a deep breath and after a pause continued.

“The bride and groom have prepared their own vows and they may present them now”

Spike started. “Sweetie Belle when we first started dating all those years ago I knew that you were the one for me, your beauty, your curiosity, your downright stubbornness to just not give up on your family. That showed me that you are perfect and I am honoured to be yours”

Sweetie Belle was blushing under all that fur but took a deep breath and began. “Spike, I love you and I am ecstatic that you feel the same, I never understood how you can tolerate how utterly complicated my life is but now I know. It’s your kindness your heart is filled with love which for some reason you decided to give to me. I am honoured to be yours.”

After the vows Twilight continued.

“Who giveth this Mare to be married to this Dragon?”

“I am.” Said Sweetie Belle’s father.

“Then shall they give their troth to each other in this manner. The Princess, receiving the Mare at her father's hooves, shall cause the Dragon with his right hand to take the Mare by her right hoof, and to say after him as followeth.”

“I Spike take thee Sweetie Belle”

“I Spike take thee Sweetie Belle.”

“To be my wedded Wife.”

“To have and to hold from this day forward.”

“For better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part.”

“According to Celestia's holy ordinance; and thereto I plight thee my troth.”

“Then shall they loose their hands and hooves; and the Mare with her right hoof taking the Dragon by his right hand, shall likewise say after the Princess,” Twilight instructed.

“I Sweetie Belle take thee Spike to be my wedded Husband,”

“To have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part.”

“According to Celestia's holy ordinance; and thereto I give thee my troth.”

“Then shall they again loose their hands and hooves; and the Dragon shalt give unto the Mare a Ring in this wise: the Princess taking the ring shall deliver it unto the Dragon, to put it upon the neck of the Mare. And the Dragon holding the Ring there, and taught by the Minister, shall say,” Princess Twilight paused as the necklaces with the rings on them were brought forward by Applebloom.

“WITH this Ring I thee wed: In the Name of Celestia, and of Luna, and of Star Swirl. Amen.”

“BLESS, O Celestia, this Ring, that she who gives it and he who wears it may abide in thy peace, and continue in they favour, unto their life's end; through Princess Luna. Amen.”

Spike smiling finally let go of the ring, Twilight joined Sweetie Belle and his right hand and hoof together, and said,

“Those whom Celestia hath joined together let no creature put asunder.For as much as Spike and Sweetie Belle have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before Celestia and this company, and thereto have given and pledged their troth, each to the other, and have declared the same by giving and receiving a Ring, and by joining hand and hoof; I pronounce that they are Husband and Wife, In the Name of Celestia, and of Luna, and of Star Swirl the Bearded. Amen.”

Princess Twilight smiled at them and Sweetie was staring at her. ‘Oh right!’

“You may now kiss the bride.”

Sweetie Belle wrapped her front legs around Spike and kissed him Spike held her close kissing back. Twilight looked at the crowd her counterpart had done a really good job. There was many tears being shed.

The reception was small compared to what ponies of Spike and Sweetie Belle’s influence and money usually had but Twilight contemplated as she sat between Fluttershy and Pinkie, that perhaps Sweetie Belle’s responsibilities prevented her from socialising. If you took away her family and Rarity’s friends there was only about fifteen ponies that Sweetie Belle had become close enough to invite to her wedding.

Twilight sipped her wine and noticed it didn’t taste quite right, Sweetie Belle had instructed the staff to not serve alcohol to any of her guests. This was to prevent Rarity from being affected by anything and because the last thing she wanted was one of her guests to set Rarity off.

Diamond Tiara was talking to the black alicorn with much focus. “So Nyx your mother did say she would fund the school expansion right?”

Nyx rolled her eyes and sipped her cider before she responded. “You keep asking and I keep telling you that she will try but she was doing research which took priority.”

Diamond Tiara nodded. “My request is for education, the only thing of higher priority is medicine and I figured that since her experiment worked she would have enough money next July.” Nyx just admired how far Tiara had come since school.

Applebloom was talking to Scootaloo. “It’s too bad Apple Tree is too young, she would of loved this.”

Scootaloo put her glass down. “That reminds me where is your family? They weren’t invited but we are at your house.”

Applebloom smiled and counted the three ponies off. “Apple Tree is with his uncle, I think they went to the comic book shop and then a play.” Applebloom laughed. “I bet he’ll tell me all about Guardians of Equestria when he get’s home. Granny Smith is at the spa.”

“Oh Applejack I’m really worried about angel, he hasn’t been looking well at all lately.”

Applejack patted her hoof. “Don’t panic Zecura knows what she’s doing. I’m sure he’s a happy little fur ball by now.” Fluttershy smiled and took another sip of wine.

Applejack faced Twilight once Fluttershy had calmed down enough. “So Rarity how are you enjoying the wedding so far?”

Twilight looked at Sweetie Belle. “It’s absolutely divine dear.”

Applejack continued what sounded to Twilight like a rehearsed speech. “Your sister Sweetie Belle jumped through a lot of hoops to get you here. Why do you think that is?”

Twilight thought about this, Applejack’s tone wasn’t angry or contempt. It was more concern and curiosity. “It’s not about me really, it’s about her. She wanted me here not because I will remember it but because she will. It’s her day and she wanted me to be a part of it.”

Applejack paused, she hadn’t been expecting that response, from what she had heard Rarity was defencive when you brought up her condition and while she didn’t want to provoke her she was expecting to. As she was about to say something else a bell rang echoing throughout the barn.

“I apologies for interrupting your conversations and meal. Silver Spoon who was both at the front and looked authoritative didn’t look sorry at all. “Some of the bride and groom's friends and family have taken it upon themselves to prepare speeches and considering the effort I assume they put in we really should listen. First up Magnum”

Sweetie Belle’s father replaced Silver Spoon at the microphone.

“Thank you Miss Spoon.” He faced the gathered ponies and smiling his eyes seemed to sparkle.

“Mare and Gentlecolts,

As father of the bride I have the pleasure of making the first speech.

I have been given lots and lots of advice on what to or what not to say such as keep it short, no smutty jokes, try and remember... names... etc.

However it is over 29 years since I was allowed to say anything without being disagreed with, laughed at or ignored so this is too good an opportunity to miss.

At the end of the day it is my speech and I can say what I like.

I would like to start by on behalf of the brides’ mother, myself and groom’s mother giving a warm welcome to all the relatives and friends who have joined us to celebrate Spike & Sweetie Belle’s wedding. I know that many of you have traveled long distances to be here. Thank you all for coming to help celebrate this very special day. As I look around the barn I realise how many friends Spike and Sweetie Belle have and I hope that you all have a wonderful afternoon and evening.

Today I must admit that I am the proudest dad in all of Equestria to have accompanied Sweetie Belle today. I think that you will all agree that she looks stunning. This is where I am supposed to say a few embarrassing things about her when she was younger but as she worked with me for a time she probably knows more gossip about me than I know about her so I have called a truce. Suffice it to say that Pearl and I are both very proud of how she looks today and how she has grown up and we are both delighted that she has found somepony who she obviously loves and cares so much for.

There are two things which we as parents try to give our children, one is roots and the other is wings. Sweetie you have now grown your wings and fled the nest but you will still be loved by us all, always still have roots within our family.

In Spike I believe that Sweetie Belle has met her perfect partner. Although we have not known Spike long both Pearl and I think he is everything one could hope for in a son in law.

Mind you I knew we would get on when he took me out to the pub to ask for her hoof in marriage. I remember thinking ‘If she finds out he actually asked for my permission she is going to kill us both’. We shall see.

Seriously he has many good qualities, not least of which is an ability to appreciate the finer things in life. Well, after all, he did marry our daughter didn’t he?

Now we get to the tricky part of the speech.

According to the libraries idiots guide to wedding speeches this is where I am supposed to give advice on the subject of marriage. Many would probably say that I am probably not the best pony to do this. Perhaps the only thing I know about marriage is that it is the time when you stop painting the town and start painting walls and ceilings.

Anyway Spike and Sweetie Belle do not need my advice. The only thing I would say is that you must choose the right partner for the right reason and I think that they both have done this.

I suppose that after 29 years of happy marriage. I ought to be able to manage something a bit more constructive. Spike just remember these 3 words …all, just and only. You will hear them time and again. Such as all you need to do is, it only costs so much & it will only take 5 minutes. These are all gross understatements but as a great philosopher or comedian said, mares are to be loved and not understood. Mind you, helping around the house is not a bad idea. I know from the crime statistics that there has never been a case of a wife shooting her husband while he was doing the washing up.

After that I had better finish but before that I would like to offer one or two final thoughts.

Marriage is the meeting of two minds, of two hearts and of two souls. It is clear that Spike and Sweetie Belle are a perfect example of this.

May they be blessed with happiness that grows and with love that lasts and a peaceful life together.

I wish them enjoyment for today, the fulfillment of all their hopes and dreams for tomorrow and love and happiness always.

It is now my pleasure to propose a toast to the happy couple. Please be upstanding and raise your glasses to the bride and groom Mr & Mrs Belle.”

The gathered ponies raised their glasses. “To Mr & Mrs Belle”

Magnum sat back down and Silver Spoon returned. “A wonderful speech sir, and seeing if he can top that I present Spike the groom.”

Spike kissed Sweetie Belle’s cheek and stepped to the microphone. “Thank you for reminding them that I too am important.” Spike faced the crowd took out the parchment he had folded in his breast pocket and began.

“On behalf of my wife and I, we'd like to thank you all for coming here today and sharing our special day with us. There are times when it's good to be surrounded by ponies who are important to you, and for us this is one of those occasions. We hope that you're enjoying it every bit as much as we are and we'd like to thank you for your kind wishes, cards, presents and support.

We must say we've been really impressed by the number of ponies that have rallied round to help us in preparation for today, if you're not mentioned by name and that's most of you, please be assured that Sweetie Belle and I are very grateful.

Magnum and Pearl, thank you not only for your hospitality this evening and your kindness, but for also giving me your very beautiful daughter. I promise I'll take good care of her and of course do everything she tells me to, even if it involves show jumping! I must confess I did actually try it a while ago, and during one lesson with the local pro I asked him whether he had seen any improvement since my last lesson. And he said “er… yup, your scales look better”.

I also want to say thank you to Twilight who put up with me for all these years, you have been there for me when I've needed you and given me a wonderful start in life and I'm very fortunate and proud to have you as my mother.

I can imagine that Nyx, my best mare is getting impatient to make her speech soon. Now many ponies don't know that Nyx suffers from a rare medical condition which causes her to invent fanciful stories. She really does believe these stories to be true and I thank you for humouring her during his speech.

I am absolutely delighted to be able stand here today with Sweetie Belle, I never knew what was missing in my life before I started dating her. Sweetie Belle has been a source of friendship, support and love. Of course I've no doubt that she is going to tell me afterwards that the only thing missing in my life at the moment is show jumping, although I am still waiting for her to explain the attraction to a game that consists of a lot of running, broken up by disappointment and crashing.

And finally, the bridesmaids, thanks for calming Sweetie Belle’s nerves and helping in her preparation today. I'd also like thank you for getting her to the farm in one piece and on time, you’ve done a brilliant job.

Well, that's it from me for now, but, before I pass you over to my best mare, Mares and Gentlecolts, please stand and lift your glasses and join me in a toast to bridesmaids…”

A few ponies laughed while the younger stallions raised their glasses. Silver Spoon returned. “This is going better than expected. I haven’t even had to use the emergency speech enders you provided me.” She held up a giant walking stick with a hook at the end.

Nyx stepped forward. “I’d keep a hold of that if I were you.” Silver Spoon stepped down.

“Well Spike, I hope you made the most of your speech... now you're a married dragon that'll be the last time you get to speak for 3 minutes without being interrupted!

Good afternoon, mares and gentlecolt. My name is Nyx, and as is traditional on these occasions, I’m here to welcome you all to this very special day, point out the fire exits and for those of you who don’t already know Spike, give you a little bit of a background on why Sweetie Belle would puts up with him the way she does.

Firstly, on behalf of the Bridesmaids, I'd like to thank Spike for his kind words. I think everybody will agree that the bridesmaids look absolutely gorgeous and Sweetie Belle, can I just say you look stunning. Whereas Spike just looks stunned.

When Spike asked me to be his best mare today, part of me was honoured, part of me was terrified, so I assume that the booze you promised me will be at the table upon my return.

Having never been a best mare before, I had to spend several hours surfing the library to try and find out exactly what my duties would be. I also came across several pictures of Sourin, but that’s by-the-by.

So apparently the most important thing I had to do was make sure Spike got to the farm on time, looking presentable, clean-cut and sober. Given how nervous he was this morning, the ‘sober’ part was a minor miracle, and as for the rest, well, I got him there on time…

Some of you, incidentally, may have been surprised by how calm and collected Spike has seemed today – he seemed to have avoided the wedding day jitters and kept insisting ‘I’m fine, really’ all day.

However, that’s probably because none of you saw him at 9 o’clock this morning when he was lying facedown on his bed in his hotel room, with his brother rubbing his back and trying to get him to eat just a few more cornflakes.

Sorry, mate, you know I had to mention it.

Anyway, where was I?

Spike was hatched on the 1st of April 998; 8 years to the day after Equestria won the Golden Horseshoe, and shares a birthday with such notables as Troph Baker, Saddle Bound and Hill Free Spot. None of these, however, have had any noticeable effects on either his literacy, physical stature or football skills.

I’ve known Spike for approaching 20 years now, since he used to be older than me, in fact, and when I first encountered him at the library, I was reliably informed that he was the ‘cocky northern one’. As those of you who know him can tell, he hasn’t changed much. His scales have, but not him.

Over the years, he’s proven to be the best friend a mare could have. From walking our dogs together, going to a pub for the first time with him, carrying him home when he’s become a little too... ahem... emotional.

While drunkenly singing various Motown hits, he’s been a true friend, like a brother to me. There’s nothing I wouldn't do for him, and likewise, nothing he wouldn’t do for me.

In fact we spend our whole lives doing nothing for each other. By the way, I should just say that if he challenges anyone to an arm-wrestle later on, use your left arm. And if he grins and asks you to pull his finger, I’d advise you to leave quickly and quietly by the nearest available exit.

Spike and Sweetie Belle have known each other for years, I knew that if he ever stopped to look there could be something there, he was absurdly proud of never having bought a drink for a mare, so when he bought her a rose and a drink on valentines day 7 years ago today, we could tell something was in the wind.

They’ve now been together for a long time, and I can’t think of a single couple more perfect for each other. She brings out the good side in him, which takes a lot of effort; in fact I’d say she’s made him a better pony since they’ve been together. Sweetie Belle, I’d like to thank you on behalf of ponmanity for that.

So to wrap this up, I’d just like to say that marriage is not about finding somepony you can live with, it’s about finding somepony you can’t live without.

So if everypony would like to join me in a toast to the new Mr and Mrs Belle, Spike and Sweetie.

May your love be modern enough to survive the times, and old fashioned enough to last for ever.

Mares and Gentlecolts: The Bride and Groom.”

They raised their glasses for the final toast. “To the bride and groom.” Twilight smiled sipping her cider, Spike and Sweetie Belle seemed as happy as two ponies could be. Desert arrived and all the ponies were digging into ice cream, pudding and apple crumble, baked by the Apple family of course.

Now was the time in the reception where all the guests got to drink and talk except for the bride and groom who were stuck talking to any and all guests who deemed it their personal responsibility to congratulate them. Twilight swore she saw an unofficial line forming where ponies were eyeing the couple and the other guests.

“She really does look beautiful doesn’t she?” Princess Twilight asked and Twilight nodded.

“Yes also can I speak with you outside for a minute.” Princess Twilight looked concerned but agreed and following her spotted Sweetie Belle looking worried.

When they got outside Twilight faced her winged counterpart. “During your speech you referred to Celestia and Luna as goddesses are they really that powerful?”

Princess Twilight eyed her concerned. “Why do you ask?”

Twilight’s eyes filled with tears. “I don’t want to leave Sweetie Belle without a sister. Can you do this bull shit again?”

Princess Twilight shook her head. “It took 7 years of careful research and 7 million bits to do this once. I’m sorry to do this again would just be too dangerous.”

Twilight didn't speak she just turned and walked inside, she spotted Sweetie Belle trying to maintain interest in Applebloom’s long list of advice for married life.

“I’m sorry Applebloom may I borrow my sister for a few minutes?”

Sweetie Belle answered delighted. “Yes you may!” Applebloom looked offended then realised that Sweetie Belle wanted to talk to sister while the potion lasted and smiled as they left.

“Thank you for getting me away from her advice.” Twilight giggled and levitated a small parcel from the table putting it in a pocket on her dress. “An excellent design feature even if I do say so myself.” Sweetie chuckled and nuzzled her as they entered the garden.

“Sweetie Belle I don’t know how to say this but your horn is glowing.” Sweetie Belle’s horn was in fact glowing a pale blue. “How long has it been glowing?”

Sweetie Belle smiled. “A month.”

Twilight hugged her. “Congratulations! Have you told Spike yet?”

Sweetie Belle nodded and then shook her head. “Actually he told me.”

Twilight hated what she had to say next but this seemed like the right excuse. “Sweetie Belle what will happen tomorrow?”

Sweetie Belle frowned and looked over the garden. “Why focus on tomorrow you’re here now. Let’s just enjoy the party okay?”

“Sweetie Belle things have changed.” Twilight tapped Sweetie's horn. “You won’t be able to visit me as often with a freakish mutant fire breathing pony flying around.”

Sweetie Belle was crying. “So you don’t want me to visit?”

Twilight shook her head. “No I am giving you permission to stop if it gets too hard. I can’t imagine how hard it is to love somepony who can’t even remember you but I do know that right now I love you.”

Sweetie Belle hugged her and hugging back Twilight levitated a small wrapped up bottle with a note and put it in Sweetie Belle’s emergency pocket. As she saw blue she closed her eyes and when she opened them again she was all alone in the barn.

Epilogue

Twilight was angry at herself and the multiverse for picking that time to send her here. “SPIKE! SPIKE! I NEED YOU!”

Spike appeared in front of her under the window where a beam of light illuminated him. “Okay you are currently in…”

Twilight interrupted. “That doesn't matter yet! What happened in the other universe?”

Spike shrugged. “I don’t know.”

Twilight directed her anger at him. “What do you mean you don’t know? Run the numbers with Everfree and tell me!”

Spike took out his hand held. “Inspired by the success of the first experiment Twilight found the drive to keep working on it. She eventually cured Rarity a year after you left. Sweetie Belle had a healthy foal, dragon hybrid named Sparky and they all lived happily ever after.”

Twilight’s pink eyes looked liked they could set something on fire. “You insensitive prick! TELL THE TRUTH!”

Spike didn't say anything for a second then began. “Twilight Sparkle trying to justify her decision to potentially have Rarity being left in a home for the rest of her life, without Sweetie Belle visiting and thus saying that one pony’s happiness is more important than another’s. She wants to justify her decision as the right one even though there is no way to really tell.”

Twilight fell on the floor, it was hard but she didn’t get up right away. Twilight closed her eyes and breathed out slowly. “Yeah Spike I am. Did I do the right thing?”

“What exactly were you doing when you told Sweetie Belle she could leave Rarity? Why did you put the potion in her pocket?”

Twilight thought of what she did, she thought of Sweetie Belle and Spike and their dragon foal hybrid. “I did it for Sweetie Belle I decided to sacrifice Rarity for Sweetie Belle.”

Spike nodded. “You made a choice and the choice affects the lives of all the ponies that you contacted and all their friends. BUT do you know what you are?”

Twilight shook her head. “You are clever and you know what you are doing and the last thing you need to do is doubt your actions after you do them. You made a clear choice it wasn’t wrong or right these choices rarely are but it worked. Sweetie Belle and Spike are married and they will only leave Rarity if they literally have to. You took away her guilt and that’s nothing to be ashamed of.”

Twilight closed her eyes and saw blue light again.