Rising Hope 2: The Harmony Of Equestria.

Ponyville, Fluttershy's meadow, Jamir's Pov:

A week passed since the ritual was completed and once again: I have soreness issues, but that is irrelevant right now as I basked in the sunlight with Twilight's head in my lap as I stroked her mane and belly as everypony were conversating about random topics. Laying my head down on the soft grass, I sighed and enjoyed the peace and quiet of this past week. Just small things like helping few of the townsfolk out, making some deliveries, and getting back into the groove of  my daily life is a gift I take not lightly.

''Ahh, this is just a beautiful day, isn't it?'' Rarity asked.

''Yep, gotta love sipping ice-cold lemonade on a hot day.'' Frank sounded from the tree above.

''Meh, I prefer the cold to this: but too lazy to get up.'' Valiant finally was able to relax after and hour of coaxing him to chill for one day. Biting into my apple, I waited patiently for Spike to get back with my special order of oatmeal raisin cookies. Hey, he was heading towards Sugarcube Corner, so I slipped him a few bits to get what he wanted while he gets my order, but it's been about an hour since he left and it only take 25 minutes to head from the bakery from where we are now.

''Where did that dragon scamper off to?'' I sighed.

''Gotta keep going, gotta keep going!''**

''Maybe he got lost or something.'' Kanaranx filed his claws.

''*Hurry, hurry, hurry!''*

''Maybe he's  *gulp* playing his stomach like a bongo again.'' Rainbow swallowed her sandwich.

''Come on!''**

''Who knows, Spike does have a tendency to-

''Twi!-light! I have...hoo. Hold on, let me...catch my breath.'' Spike hopped in front of us. ''Here's...your cookies, Jamir.'' He passed me a brown basket. Opening it up, at least 30 cookies had to be there.

''Thanks.'' I bit into one.

''This is for you.'' He handed Twi a letter.

''Hmm, let's see what this is all about:

*Dear Twilight, I am sure you are as excited as I am about the upcoming wedding in Canterlot. ''Wedding?'' She looked to us.*

Wedding?

''Keep reading. This sounds interesting.'' Frank urged.

I will be presiding over the ceremony, but would very much like you and your friends to help with the preparations for this wonderful occasion. Fluttershy, I would like you and your songbird choir to provide the music.

''Oh goodness, what an honor!'' She grew excited.

*Pinkie Pie, I can think of no one more qualified than you to host the reception.*

''Alright! This is gonna be so amazing!''

*Applejack, you will be in charge of the catering for the reception.*

''Ah'd be honored.''

Rainbow Dash-

''Ugh, yawn.''

I would very much appreciate it if you could perform a sonic rainboom as the bride and groom complete their I do's

''Alright! Now we got something going!''

Rarity, you will be responsible for designing the dresses for the bride and her bridesmaids. ''

''Princess Celestia wants me to–laiigh - for a Canterlot wedding I, ah, ooh, oooh!''

''Sounds like a match-made in heaven for whoever's getting hitched, am I right?'' Frank  jumped down and offered his hand a high five which I accepted.

*Frank, as you seem to be quite a colorful character with your bright and swanky attitude that I would  like to appoint you as the bride's personal guard and escort around Canterlot as well as invite Ms. Lavender Splash and her Daughter Rose as well as our intrepid allies of the Dragon, Griffon, and Zebra factions as guests.*

''Well, at least Celestia knows when to play the right cards, guard duty duty eh? Nice.''

I would also call upon for Vaillant Barrier and Iron Hammer to temporarily called back into service as to better reinforce protection for this event.

''Us?'' Iron grew curious.

''Heh, seems like a big deal if they're calling us back in: whaddya think?'' Vaillant wondered.

''I'm in.''

And as for you, Twilight, you and Jamir will be playing the most important role of all: Making sure that everything goes as planned. See you all very soon. Yours, Princess Celestia.

''But... I don't understand. Who's getting married?''

''Oh.'' Spike deadpanned. ''I was supposed to give you this first.'' He brought out a second scroll. Opening this one, maybe we can find out just who is the lucky-

Princess Celestia cordially invites you to the wedding of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and...

''My brother?!''

''Brother?!'' We repeated.

This calls for a spit take, if only I had some water. Dang.

''Your brother's getting married?''- Applejack came over and patted Twi on the shoulder. - ''Congratulations, Twilight! That's great news!''

Yeah, great news''. - she got up and began pacing.- ''That I just got from a wedding invitation! Not from my brother, but from a piece of paper! Thanks a lot, Shining Armor. I mean, really, he couldn't tell me personally?''- she held a sandwich which I assumed was to mimic her brother-  ''Hey, Twilight, just thought you should know I'm making a really big decision that changes everything. Oh, never mind, you'll hear about it when you get the invitation.'' ''Princess Mi Amore Cadenza? Who in the hoof is that?!''

''I don't know: but are you okay? You seem a little-

''Rage happy?'' Rainbow chipped in.

''Sorry, it's just that Shining Armor and I have always been so close. He's my B.B.B.F.F!''

''Huh?'' Everyone wondered.

''Big Brother Best Friend Forever?''

''Oh.''

''Before I came here and learned the importance of friendship, Shining Armor was the only pony I ever really accepted as a friend.''

Youtube Video

Well, that certainly gave me some insight, though I wonder for a few things.

''So why all the worry: this Shining Armour sounds like an okay guy to me: so why all this?'' I took a look at the letter.

''He is pretty special. I mean, they don't let just anypony be captain of the Royal Guard.''

''Captain?'' Iron and Vaillant asked.

''So let me get this straight,'' - Rarity stopped Twilight. -''we are not only helping out with the wedding of a princess, but the captain of the Royal Guard?''

''Suppose so.''

''Ooh, ooh, oooh!''

''Uh-oh: easy there.'' Frank caught Rarity.

So, it looks like we're heading to Canterlot once again, this should be interesting.

Some time later, Ponyville express to Canterlot:

Hearing the clanking of the tracks with the train whistle blaring became background noise as I listened in on everyone's thoughts about their respective duties...but Twilight's mind looked to be going a million miles in every direction as she stared out the window. Going over and resting a hand on her forehead, she broke out of her trance and laid her purple eyes full of worry to mine.

''Why the long face, sugarcube?''

''It's just.'' - She slumped in her seat. -'' I'm just thinking about Shining Armor. Ever since I moved to Ponyville, we've been seeing each other less and less. And now that he's starting a new family with this "Princess Mi Amore Ca-whatshername", we'll probably never see each other.'' She leaned into me.

''Come on, now.'' -Aj waved a hoof dismissively. -  ''You're his sister. He'll always make time for you.''

''Couldn't seem to make time to tell me he was getting married.'' She pouted.

''Twi.''- I brought her into a hug. -''Remember how I told you i'd do anything for you girls?''

''Mmm-hmm.'' She mumbled from my chest.

''Then you should take that same level of trust and belief that your brother would put that same amount into seeing you: regardless of what or when, there should always be time for family: something I barely had.''

''Really?''

''Yep.'' I whispered. ''My mother was always busy with her job, father is who knows where, brother and sister are grown up and either choose not to see me or just forgets and other relatives? More or less the same, save for my grandmother whom I will always cherish and respect. So trust in me when I say that your brother hopefully means well by not telling upfront, but I guess we'll find out when we-

''We're here!'' Pinkie shouted.

Looking out the window, once again the breathtaking view of Canterlot always fills me with a sense of astonishment: but the massive magenta  sphere surrounding the city suggested otherwise as we descended down the tracks to the platform. How are we gonna pass through that, it looks pretty thick and-

''Sloop!'' A hole formed big enough for us to proceed through, a slight chill going down my spine as the magic physically washed over me as I shook it off. At this point, I realized just how important this really must be if they go to these extremes. Massive squadrons of Royal Guards clad in golden Armour and spears surrounded us as the train screeched to a stop. Opening the door, we exited out to view the massive barrier that encompassed all Canterlot, giving the illusion of a planet that appeared to stretch for miles. The second we all came out on the platform, 12 guards lined up, 6 either side of us with metal spears at the ready.

''Whoa, talk about tight security.'' Rainbow joked.

''It is a wedding, Rainbow Dash: these things do tend to bring out the more curious of ponies.'' Rarity scoffed.

''Doesn't this,'' - Frank nudged me. -''remind you of?-

''Back in 9th grade when the First Lady came to Wayne State to speak? Protection everywhere, even the bomb squad.'' I said back.

The clatter of shoes against the platform floor made me turn my head as a familiar face walked through the middle. Taking off his helmet, his stone-cold grey mane has gotten rather long and his once klutzy demeanor changed drastically. His dark brown eyes portrayed the look of remembrance as I embraced him in a hug.

''Stone Wall, how long has it been, you old dog?'' I tapped his Armour for emphasis.

''Stone, my bro: how's life been?'' Frank shook his hoof.

''Too long, too long: and do I have some news for you.'' He smiled. ''Guess who got a promotion and personally recommended by Princess Luna herself to become a personal guard and some time off to catch up?''

''So it finally: but when was this and who is it?''

''For Fancy Pants: turns out he's going to be heading to Reighsia for some important business next month  with the emperor and asked that I accompany him! I'm moving up in the world!'' He exclaimed.

''Nice, nice: so are you here to escort us?''

''Oh, yes.'' He bowed. ''Princess Celestia asked that I take you guys to the Captain as he wishes to see his sister and 'the one whom taken her heart' as you could be of help to him and get everypony settled in. If you'll follow me.'' He turned to take us in the city.

Wonder what he meant by that.

''Well let's go.'' -Applejack trotted forward. -''you've got a big brother to congratulate.''

''Yeah. Congratulate.'' Her ears dropped. - ''And then give him a piece of my mind.'' She hustled past two guards at the entrance who looked a little shaken up at her face.

Proceeding after, the normally bumbly city with ponies walking by, doing business, chatting, or being snobs were cut down at bit as per every few buildings: guards stood at every corner, the same stoic look upon their faces as we went by. Turning down the cobblestone pathway, my question came in the form of a statement via Frank

''Damn, with all these guards, you'd think Canterlot's going to war-'' Oomph!'' Lavender socked him in the gut.

''Don't say that!'' She scolded. ''Maybe this Cadenza just wants to make sure that all goes well and not screw anything up.'' Lavender said.

Something I noticed about her was how she began to pick up certain traits that my friend here would normally exude, but the heart wants what the heart wants and those two seem made for one another. With that, Stone Wall escorted everyone else to the castle to get situated as he took me and Twi to see the Captain. We were walking for a few minutes when he spoke up.

''Actually.'' Stone's face darkened. ''She's not too far off the mark. I don't have all the details, but it seems some sort of threat has been made against Canterlot which is why you see the abnormal increase of guards: Captain Armour should have more details than me, but i've only heard about this through the grape vine: some even say that this is all part of a crazy unicorn's scheme to get revenge on somepony who wronged her, but what can you do? These are rumors.'' He put his helmet back on. A threat? During a wedding? Great, even more for the hotplate, but I guess-

''I've got something to say to you, mister.'' Twilight stormed ahead as we came to the entrance to the castle and saw a slight increase of guards towards the front, some even standing close to Yasu's statue of whom I beamed my eyes downward as we approached the stairs. Walking up, a trio of pegasus guards just left after being commanded by a unicorn with a alabaster coat, blue eyes and a two tone blue and sky blue mane and tail adorning a special type of outfit, laden with purple and gold with a symbol that resembled Twilight's cutie mark as a chest insignia.

''Twily! Ah, I've missed, you, kid. How was the train ride? I-'' He paused and looked at Twilight's bulging belly.

''You're pregnant?!'' He backpedaled. ''By who? How come you didn't tell me you let some bucking stallion defile you like that? Where is he so I can-

''I didn't tell you because one: It was so sudden and even I didn't know about it and two: I knew you would act like this: trust me, he's not who you think he-

''Who is he?''

At this point, I decided to speak up from my place.

''That.'' I stepped forward. - ''would be me.'' Craning his head towards, me Shining adopted a look of confusion with slight rage. Walking up to me, I did the same as we stared each other down, Shining staring up at me as I offered my hand in a friendly gesture.

''So you're the guy? Interesting.'' He circled around me. ''You seem to be in top shape, has a pretty powerful aura and must have a real set to get my sister pregnant and not inform me or expect this!'' He hurled his forehoof at me which I dodged and pounded his center with a low kick that pushed him back. Hearing clattering, the guards around me readied their spears.

''No! Stand down: this is not a fight, just testing him.'' He rushed at me again. Stepping to the side, I tripped him and brought magic into my hands and held his neck in place. Snapping my fingers, a long, rectangular case fell into my left hand and unfurled to reveal my 6ft long scythe that I easily held in one hand and leveled the tip of my blade to his nose as the other cocked the hammer.

''No!'' Twi yelled, the rest being shocked at my actions.

''Nice try: but I wasn't born yesterday. And don't worry: I'm not gonna do that.'' - I relinquished my hold on him and set my blade to the ground.

''Whoa, you- Cough! - know what you're doing: sorry for charging at you, I just needed to make sure that you're on top of your game if you are to be a father. I'm Shining Armour.'' He got up and offered his hoof that I shook.

''Jamir. I almost thought for a second you disapproved.''

''I do.'' He deadpanned. ''But...I'm willing to give you a chance to change my mind.''

Huh.

That was a little unexpected, but at that he really didn't want to- oh crap. Twilight's giving me a mean look that I interpreted as a stern talking to.

''Anyway.'' - Twi cleared her throat. - ''How dare you not tell me in person that you were getting married! I'm your sister, for pony's sake!''

''It's not my fault! Princess Celestia has requested a major increase in security. Didn't you see all the guards at the train station?''

''We sure noticed.'' Frank piped up.

''Yeah, there's a big wedding coming up. Maybe you heard about it?'' Twi waved her hooves all around.

''It has nothing to do with the wedding.'' - He looked to the skies. - ''A threat has been made against Canterlot. We don't know who's responsible for it, but Princess Celestia asked that I help provide additional protection. This, you all need to see.'' He stepped back and fired his horn to the sky. Contacting the barrier, it solidified and built a layer upon the existing one. Holding his head after gaining a headache, he spoke.

''The burden of keeping Canterlot safe and secure rests squarely on my shoulders. Staying focused on the task at hand has been... my top priority. You do understand that, don't you?''

''Okay, okay, I get it. You've got a really important job protecting all of Canterlot with a force field only you can conjure up. But still... how could you not tell me about something as big as your wedding?'' - She shed a few tears. - '' Am I not that important to you any more?''

Hugging her, Shining spoke from the heart as he looked to the distance.

''Hey. You're my little sister. Of course you're important to me. But I'd understand if you didn't want to be my best mare now.''

''I'd be honored!'' - She bowed. - ''But I'm still pretty ticked you're marrying somepony I don't even know! When did you even meet this "Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?''

''Twilight, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is Cadence, your old foalsitter.''

If her smile could be any bigger, Pinkie Pie might have a rival.

''Cadance? As in the Cadance? As in the greatest foalsitter in all the history of foalsitters?!''

''You tell me, she **was your foalsitter.'' He chuckled.**

''So I take she's like a sister to you then?''

''Ohmygoshohmygosh! Cadance is only the most amazing pony ever! She's beautiful, she's caring, she's kind...'' She reminisced.

''How many unicorns can just spread love wherever they go? I only know of one! And you're marrying her!'' She hopped around in a sing-song voice. - ''You're marrying Cadance! You're marrying Cadance!''

As I chuckled about how she acted, I suddenly felt an immense amount of pressurized magic in such a close proximity to me. Before I could turn around, a voice cut through the air.

''I hope I'm not interrupting anything important.'' A girlish voice chided. To my was an alicorn with a pink coat with a three tone purple, pink and white color scheme weaved in a wavy mane and tail, encompassed in regalia with a cutie mark of a heart with a rather smug look on her face.

''Cadence!'' Twilight gasped.

''Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!'' Twi performed some very odd movements, though one struck me at the end when she raised her tail and showed her rump to me.

Hot.

''Easy there Twi: don't want to startle  the baby.''

''What are you doing?'' Cadence look perplexed.

''Huh? Cadence, it's me: Twilight!''

''Uh-huh.'' She sounded uninterested. Paying me no mind, she walked to Shining and nuzzled him.

''I've gotta get back to my station, but Cadance will be checking in with all of you to see how things are going. I think I speak for both of us when I say we couldn't be more excited to have you here. Right, dear?''

''Absolutely.'' She cracked a wicked smile.

''We'll let you get to it.'' They walked off.

''Something seems off: that can't be the Cadence that I know.''  Twilight trotted.

''What makes you think that?'' I said, getting up from my bowing position at the statue and trailing after her.

''I've known Cadence better than anypony else: practically my whole life and not once has she acted like this: she always does the sunshine dance with me. I don't know about you, but there's something not right and I intend to find out.'' She lay a hoof down.

''Not by yourself, you're not: I'm helping you. I know you pretty well hon, and if there's one thing that I know: it's that your intuition is usually never wrong, but spasmodic and often backed up with science so I trust your instincts on this.'' I massaged her neck.

''Ahhh~'' She breathed out. ''Thanks for believing me: but we have to keep this between us: anypony else gets involved and we may have a problem.'' She stood on her hind legs and kissed me.

''Come on.'' - I took point.  - ''We should get going.''

Frank's Pov, Cadet's Quarters

Getting fitted for my role as personal escort and guard to the princess came with a lot of perks. First off, I have authority to take drastic measures if need be and then ask for clarification later: simply put: I can lay down the law and restrain, detain, or knock out or attack anyone who threatens the princess and even to a degree if it gets to that point...kill with justifiable cause and reason should the need arise. I was given a schedule of what we needed to get down today and am currently reviewing it in my mind.

''So.'' A voice roused out of my thoughts. ''You ready for guard detail?'' Valiant tossed me my sash.

''More or less: but the clothes...kinda formal.''

''Well, this is what we wear and what you do too.'' Iron sounded from his bunk. To put matters in perspective: I'm wearing a set of white custom tailored gloves that are protected from getting dirty, a pair of black combat boots, gold armour plates around my knees, elbows, and shoulders with a miniature armoured vest that reaches down to the middle of my chest with a long cape worn over a black vest with a white shirt along with a pin of the princesses cutie mark on the top of the pink and gold trimmed sash that is draped over my right side with my new painted version of shock-charge with a red base and green trim on standby mounted my wrists to use the metal portion as a hammer.

Brushing a few long bangs out of my way, I nodded to myself and walked out the door, Valiant and Iron joining me soon afterwards. Walking over to retrieve our standard issue weapons: (they a spear, while me a pair of plain sais.

''You ready?'' Vaillant fired up his horn and teleported us to where the princess is.

POOF!

A small, circular room with various dresses along with decorations, gift baskets and bridesmaids told me this is the right place.

''Princess.'' We bowed.

''Ah guards: I trust you have all you need?'' She inquired.

''Yes.'' We responded.

''Very well.'' She trotted out the door. ''Let us be off...'' Her voice trailed downstairs as we followed her to check on preparations.

Jamir's Pov, Royal Kitchen:

''Mmmph...'' Twilight sounded from my side. After deciding to do this ourselves, she got a little peeved at the way Cadence reacted to her and had this pouty face ever since we got here, so i'm able to do is just pet her mane while she checks off her checklist.

''Cake: taken care of.''

Check.

''Ice sculpture: done.''

Check.

''Best darn bite-size apple fritter you ever tasted?''

Smush!

''Mmm! Check.'' Twilight brightened up. Getting a taste, it reminded me of the classic kind of Apple pie that my grandma used to make for me. Enjoying the taste, the doors to the kitchen opened, everypony bowing at the sight of the princess. Behind her walked in Iron, Valiant, and Frank: all clad with weapons and armour as they stood by the door.

''Hey.'' The trio greeted.

Nodding, I shot them the later gesture as I was busy munching on my cookies.

''Hiya, Princess!'' Aj greeted.

''Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.''

''Hiya, princess Mi Amore Cadenza, you've come to check on the food?''

''I have.''

''Well, here have a taste.''

Holding one of the fritters in her magic, she sampled the treat and gave her thoughts.

''It's...delicious!'' She hesitated.

'' Aw, shucks. Why don't you take a few to go?'' -she handed her a brown bag. - ''I know how you brides can be. So busy, you forget to get a little somethin' in your belly.''

''Oh...well thank you. I'll be sure to savor them: guards, let us be off.'' She departed.

''Yes, princess.'' They remained stoic. Walking ahead of her, she surveyed the area and threw the bag in the trash.

''Did...you see what she...did?'' Twi asked me.

''Yea.'' I whispered. ''Somepony's not a very good host.''

''In any case: this merits investigation: let's go check in with Rarity.'' She brought her list out. During this, a thought came to my head.

Why does feel like one of those soap operas?

''Oh, you should have seen how she acted back there.'' - Twi fumbled with my hair as I sat at the base of the bed. - ''I don't know when she changed, but she changed! "Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.'' She imitated her. Hearing to her plight, it really seemed that Twilight's taking this new version of Cadence as bad as a thief would want something worth stealing. But, we can't just interrogate her about her behavior since 1: I know nothing about her and B: solid proof is a must. Rarity, however was more focused on doing a last minute check over on the dresses she designed for the bridesmaids and Cadence when I sensed a familiar aura. And here she-

''Did somepony say my name?'' Her voice honestly sounded like a chalkboard and nails to me, but I sucked it up as she arrived with the guys and three mares: one of which I have come to know under better circumstances. Eyes brightening, Rarity showed her respect and gushed as she expressed her honor for working.

''Your highness! L-Let me just start by saying what an honor it is to play a role in such a m-momentous occasion.'' She chuckled.

''Hey guys how's life being a guard?'' I joked.

''Ugh! So boring! Not once Once! has somepony tried to hurt the princess: and while that's all good, don't get me wrong.'' He waved his hands in a slow down motion. -''I was just expecting a damn challenge, not be dressed up as a literal stiff, though a good looking one at that.'' He snapped his fingers.

''Guard.'' Cadence firmly stated which Frank straightened up.

''Sorry.''

''Uh-huh.'' Her eyes narrowed. Is my dress ready?''

''Yes, of course. Um, I've been working on it ever since I was given the assignment.'' - She put her small, red glasses on. -''and I think you'll be pleased with the results! Mmm!'' She nodded. Taking a quick glance at the dresses, they looked rather good in my opinion: not too frilly, but not too plain.

''I was hoping for something with more beading and a longer train.'' Her demands kept coming.

''And those should be a different color.'' She rejected the bridesmaid's dresses.

''I think they're lovely.'' Twinkleshine commented.

''Me too!'' Minuette smiled.

''I love them.''Lyra said.

''Make them a different color. She demanded.

''Uh, very well princess.''

''Let us be off.'' She turned and left.

''Gee, maybe her name should be "Princess Demandy-pants.'' Twi mumbled.

Passing me a look of confusion as he left, Frank shrugged as we once again had to adjust to something changing.

''Now?'' Twi asked.

''Not yet: I trusted you intuition on this, so now you can trust in mine: we need to get her alone so guys can talk and or sort this out. Remember, we need to think a few steps ahead of her. Don't worry.'' I cooed. - ''we'll and by that I mean you will have your chance soon enough, but try to enjoy today: we are prepping for a wedding after all.''

Time Shift: Night.

Me and Twilight just finished informing the crusaders about their roles along with making sure that all the small details of the wedding as we strolled down the street, taking in the sights of the calm nighttime and grasshoppers chirping as we made a left and proceeded down to the ball room where the reception would take place. Brushing my hand past a line of flowers, the calmness of the night brought a smile to my face.

''So that was fun: at this pace we should be done by early tomorrow.'' I sparked up a conversation.

''Yea.'' She barely registered my voice as she contemplated.

''Okay, let me see. We've been over the games...the dances...and the music.'' Pinkie's voice sounded near the entrance. Ears perking up at the sound of music, Twi hushed me as she got closer to the door. Peering inside, Cadence was discussing the party situation with Pinkie who looked to be oblivious to the disapproving look she received.

''Okay, that's it!'' She flared her nostrils. ''I'm sick of her insulting our friends and thinking she can get away with it: foalsitter or not, she has to pay for this!'' Twi went to open the door, me holding a hand over her mouth and ducking in the bushes with a thud.

''What are you doing?'' ''Can't you see that-

''Sssh. Look.'' I pointed to the alicorn leaving out with Frank, Iron and Valiant. But I noticed a difference in their strides: like they've been worked to the nub, but masked it with a straight face. Waiting for them to pass, I held Twilight still until she licked my hand which prompted me to remove it.

''This cannot keep going on: we need to act now.'' She stood up.

''But how? What could we possibly do: force her to tell the truth?''

That got Twilight to smile sweetly like the grinch as she rubbed her hooves together.

''Maybe that's just what we have to do: come on, I got an idea.''

Frank's Pov,

''Never again,'' - I chugged my third juice down. - ''will I let you convince me to say that speech ever again, Valiant.''

''Come on, we had to tease you a little: we always make the rookies do one embarrassing thing.'' He mocked me.

''Gotta admit we had you.'' Iron  nudged me.

''Bastards.'' I cursed them in my thoughts. Besides being forced to recite some lame ass speech that I just may have a aneurysm over, I relaxed as the princess gave us time off after escorting her to her temporary abode. I'm just glad to be relaxing here with everyone and with my sweetness as she leaned into me with a look of happiness on her face.

''This is nice, isn't it?'' Lavender soothed to me.

''Yea, I really can unwind and enjoy these moments, or could if these guys could stop **loudly talking then all would be good.'' I tried my best to drown out their voices.**

''Never mind. Rainbow Dash, you're with me, right?'' Twilight hoped.

''Sorry Twi,'' - She stretched her wings. - ''I've been too busy prepping for my rainboom to notice the princesses bad attitude.''

''The princess is about to get married. I'm sure any negative behavior she might be displaying is simply the result of nerves.'' Rarity pointed out.

''You call that nerves?'' - Jamir brushed some of his long, two tone colored hair. - ''I know nerve: and that is not it.''

''And I'm sure it's the result of being an awful pony who doesn't deserve to even know Shining Armor, let alone marry him!'' Twilight thumped the table.

''Think maybe you're being just a tiny bit possessive of your brother?'' Applejack pryed.

''Yeah!'' Everypony save for Spike, Jamir, myself and Lavender agreed.

''I am not being possessive, and I am not taking it out on Cadance! You're all just too caught up in your wedding planning to notice that maybe there shouldn't even be a wedding!'' Twilight stormed off in the opposite direction, leaving us to think about her outburst.

Geez, slammy much?

''Wonder what's gotten into her?'' Spike wondered. But, as we all tried to make sense of her leaving off like that, Jamir trailed after her.

''Hey! What about our plans?''

But he appeared to pay me no mind as he broke out in a run after Twilight down the dark, calm streets.

Twilight's Pov:

Oh! The nerve of my friends! Can they not see that I'm trying to help: they're all caught up in planning for the wedding to think properly for a moment. Whatever, if they won't help me try and get Cadence away from Shining Armour to try and figure out why's she acting so differently then...I'm on my own. This whole wedding makes no sense to begin with: just out of the blue this all comes up and I'm expect to just go along.

''Well, time to put a stop to this.'' I constructed a few thoughts on my way to try and talk some sense to my brother.

''Wait up, Twilight!'' My coltfriend called after me. Stopping, I had all but forgot about him and his willingness to assist me. Sometimes, I really am glad to have a special someone like Jamir with me and the girls.

''Hold on: and where are you going?'' He showed concern.

''To put a stop to this: since everypony else seems to be to blind to really see the truth then it falls to you and me to act. Come on, we're wasting time.'' I urged as we took off down the walkway.

Whoosh!

''Whoa!'' I yelled, being swept up in Jamir's arms as he took flight and soared to the skies, the ground quickly disappearing beneath us and the crisp waves of air breezing past my mane. From this high up, the entirety of Canterlot shone like ants with us picking up altitude rather fast. Passing by one of the many libraries I used to frequently visit, Shining Armour's temporary's house came into view as we touched down.

''Are you sure about this?'' Jamir asked, barring my way with his hand. Moving his hand aside, I knocked on the door.

''Of course.'' I assured him. ''Plus we can't back out now.''

''Twily!'' My brother embraced me in a hug as we came inside. ''Jamir.'' He sounded neutral. ''Whaddya think? Big brother's looking pretty sharp.'' Shining complimented our uncle's garb. ''What's wrong?''

We need to talk. I think you're making a big–

''Ahem!'' Cadence's voice interrupted us.

''Oh, uh, hi, sweetie.''

''Could I talk to you for a minute?'' She ignored our presence.

''Better see what she wants: help yourself to some- Poof! -snacks.'' He brought a bowl a butterscotch to the table. Waiting for them to head to the other room, I slowly crept over to the door listened on for-

Rustle! Crunch!

''Huh?'' Turning my head to the source, the entire bowl was empty, a few wrappings on the floor as Jamir stuffed the candy into his pocket. Looking at me, a sightly confused look on his face.

''What?'' He muffled. ''I like butterscotch.'' He reasoned.

Smiling, I motioned for him to come closer as I heard their voices from the door.

''- look, we need to talk.'' Cadence's voice muffled through the door.

''I'm here to talk, but what about?''

''It's about your sister, okay?''

I– ''look, look, she's okay–

''Just... listen to me alright? No no–

''I'm listening, I'm listening.''

''I thought I made it perfectly clear I didn't want you to wear that.'' She scolded.

''This was my favorite uncle's.'' My brother retorted.

''And?''

''And I think I should wear it.''

Are you disagreeing with me?

I guess I am– Ah! Peering through a small crack, Shining was clutching his head in pain.

''Oh, dear. Are you getting another one of your headaches? Let me help you.'' We observed a sliver of her horn turning green and zapping my brother, making his eyes all swirly.

''Gyah!''

''Feeling better?'' She asked.

''Uh, mm-hmm.''

She's not just mean and snobby: she's downright evil!

''Come on! Let's go!''

Running outside, the force of the wind blew my mane back as Jamir took me in his arms and ascended to the sky before we could be caught.  Dipping through narrow alleyways and old drawbridges, the look of confusion, shock and concern plagued his face as his eyes glazed over and grip on me tightened slightly.

''What the hell was that?'' He shook his head.

That is something I would like to find out as well.

''Whatever that was,'' I tried my best to think of a valid answer, but was perpelexed. - ''but this is obviously undeniable evidence that I was right about Cadence not being who i've come to known...as much as it pains me to do this...we have to ask the girls for help.'' My ears flattened.

''We can't do that: I refuse to put the girls in danger, much less you Twi. I'll...think up an idea of how to handle this.''

''And just how do you propose what we are supposed to do while you go play the dangerous hero game? You said it yourself: you'd do anything for us right?'' - I reasoned. - ''then you should be well aware of the fact that we are not frail, little ponies. We are all in this together.''

Exhaling a swift breath while he rolled his eyes, Jamir looked to already agreed with me as he kissed me on the cheek.

''Guess it's hard to deter you, isn't it? So what's the plan, because I know you have one.'' He smirked.

''It is and I do, sorta.'' I blushed. ''While no physical evidence has been presented, we may be able to convince the princesses to at least investigate her change in behavior.''

''Hmm.'' He craned his head upwards. - ''my idea involved a little game of cat and mouse, ya know? Bait her, get her alone and Bam! Exposition of the truth.''

Considering that option for a moment, it seemed plausible, but could take plenty of planning, waiting, and cleverness which we have no time to do all that. If anything, then my idea would seem to be the better on in this case due to time, yet we have to inform the girls about this. His feet gliding back down to the ground, the suite we were housed in had the lights on, door open, and sounds of chatting drew looks from both of us as we approached.

''Guys! Shining Armour is in real trouble! You have to help-

Stopping to see what the commotion is all about, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow, Aj, Pinkie all are in very stunning dresses while Frank, Spike, Iron, Valiant, and Kanaranx wore black suits.

''Dresses, what are you-

''Can you believe it? We're gonna be Princess Mi Amore Cadenza's new bridesmaids!'' Fluttershy gushed.

''New bridesmaids? What happened to her old bridesmaids?'' I questioned.

''She didn't say,'' Aj admired her dress. - ''But she did tell us that she would love-love-love it if we'd fill in for them.''

Seeing as we've been working so hard and everything.

''And you had your doubts about her.''

''Told you she was an absolute gem!''

''You sure this is what I should wear? Doesn't seem all that aerodynamic.'' Rainbow flicked her dress around.

''Hmm. I'll see what I can do.''

Paying my serious issue no mind, I turned back and walked out and laid my head on the balcony. Hearing soft footsteps behind me with a groan of discontent, Jamir looked to have the same set of thoughts I do.

''Guess since nopony'll listen to reason I guess we're on our own with this.'' I groaned.

''And I know for a fact that it will not be easy, but then again: what is?''

Time Skip: Morning, Jamir's Pov:

Walking down the long, decorated hallway with banners and mosaic tiles added to the quietness that slowly got replaced by the sounds of an organ playing the wedding theme. Seeing Cadence enter in first, me and Twilight slowed our pace down to go over any last minute thoughts.

''You sure about doing this?'' I wanted to assure her decision

''Yes.'' She nodded. ''I'm well aware of what we're doing and do want to back down: Shining Armour and everypony else are so blind to see that Cadence...that's not her. I'm not backing away from this, besides you'll be there with me so hopefully everything will be fine.'' She nuzzled my leg.

Well, no going back now.

''Right.'' I smiled as we made our way to the large double doors. ''I have no doubt in my mind and rest assured that I will be right at your side.''

Twilight's plan is a tad reckless, though the limited time we have is working against us and this needs to be noticed. Plus, I saw it myself: this has gotten a tad out of proportions.

''Sir!'' The two solar guards saluted as me they opened the doors, revealing Tia to be standing at the top of the stairs, in her original form while Shining Armour and Cadence stood in the middle, embracing each other while the girls stood to the latter's left and the guys to the former's right. Hearing out entrance, all eyes were put to us as Twilight developed a sudden scowl at how close her brother and foalsitter was together.

''Twilight, Jamir: you're a little late, but we can still-

''I'm not standing next to her! And neither should you!'' Twilight directed to Shining.

''I don't know why she's acting this way.'' Shingin withheld a nervous chuckle to his bride.

''Maybe we should just ignore her.'' Cadence suggested.

''You have to listen us! We're telling you the truth!'' Twilight continued.

''Oh, my are you okay?'' Fluttershy grew worried.

''I'm fine.''

''Ya sure bout that?'' Aj remained unconvinced.

''Not really a good time girls, it's a lot more complicated than I would love to explain.'' My attention shifted to Twilight taking a step forward, the others having looks of worry.

''She's evil!'' A hoof was pointed to Cadence. ''She's been rude to my friends, demanding, sneaky, and on top of all that: you've changed...and it's not for the better.'' Twilight's ear flattened.

''And also,'' I jumped in. ''Twilight tried her best to inform the girls about her behavior that me and her have observed, but decided to talk to Shining Armour, so we went to go and discuss just that when we saw him being zapped with some green magic from your horn that made his eyes disoriented and even to make matters worse: you never once talked or acknowledged me.'' I folded my arms. With Twilight backing her into a corner, Cadence looked to be panicking as she looked left and right as Twi held a smug smile on her face.

''W-Why?'' Tears streamed down her face. ''Why are you being so mean to me?'' She darted out of the room and past me as she bawled her eyes out.

''Because you're evil!'' Twilight teleported as she ran to emphasize her point. ''And if we don't stop you, you're going to ruin my brother's life!- oof!''

Twi bumped into her brother who had a look of steel plastered on his face.

''You two want to know why my eyes went all 'like that?' It's because ever since i've put up my protection spell, I have been having extreme migranes.''

''But I thought-

''She's been using her magic to **heal me.''**

''But we didn't have any idea that she was doing-

A look of rage and disbelief cut me off.

''Also, with me performing my duties with the Royal Guard, she's had all the responsibilities of planning the wedding put on her and it's been stressing her to try and be on her best behavior and to make sure that everything goes perfect!'' - A breath of hot air left his snout. - ''Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go and comfort my bride...and you can forget about being my best mare. In fact,'' - He paused. - ''you can forget about even coming to the wedding and those goes triple for your brainless savage ape of a coltfriend too: don't bother showing up or you will be dead.''

''Wait, i-i didn't mean to. Guys, help me out here...guys?'' Twilight gasped at the sight of everyone just walking past us, disapproving looks and heads held up.

''Come on ya'll, let's check on the princess.''

''Spike, Frank, Valiant, even you Kanaranx?'' I had no real words.

''Hmmph!''

''You two have a lot to think about.'' Tia's voice held no feeling to it: no care, no love, just upset and hurt as she swatted my reaching hand away. ''Maybe you should just stay here and think about what you've done.'' She never looked in our direction as the door closed.

Wait...we were wrong?

''Maybe all those accusations were all just delusions in our heads...I could have gained a sister, but lost a brother instead.'' She laid her head down on the velvet stairs as even she shed a few tears.

''Twi.'' I came over and brought her in a deep hug. ''We messed up, but it'll be okay...we'll figure something out.'' I whispered.

Time seems to be in a standstill for us as my breathing overlapped Twi's. Everything around us became nonexistent and unimportant until a hoof rubbed both mine and Twi's heads. Looking up, Cadence loomed over us, a small, comforting smile on her face.

''I-I'm sorry.'' She apologized through a few of her tears.

''You will be.'' was all she said before a ring of green fire circled around us began to sink us into the floor at a rapid pace as the last thing I saw was the smug look on her face. And here is some crap to get out of. Again.

*''Cadence!''*