Chronicles of the Ponyverse

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.