Treaty Between Lands

Chapters

Chapter One ~ Big News
Chapter Two ~ Dinner Date
Chapter Three ~ Torn Inside
Chapter Four ~ Another Day
Chapter Five ~ Cold Hooves
Chapter Six ~ This Is How It Ends

Chapter One ~ Big News

It was a beautiful morning in Ponyville. As the sun rose over the castle, Twilight was already awake. Spike was still sleeping, but she didn't wish to bother him. The reason Twilight had been up so early was because the princesses requested her presence in Canterlot first thing today. Still half-asleep, Twilight decided to take the train since her wings weren't quite awake with her yet. She left her castle, and then went down to the train station. As Twilight boarded the train, she wondered what the princesses needed her for.

Twilight sighed, "What could the princesses need me for? It must be really important if they're asking me to come at the crack of dawn. I wish I had my friends to keep me company...but the princesses orders must be respected." as she wondered what the emergency was, she kept panicking over it. Had Tirek returned? Did Discord become evil again? Has the Bug Bear come back? There was only one way to find out, and she had finally arrived at the Canterlot train station.

"Canterlot train station! Last stop!" the conductor yelled. Twilight hopped off the train-car she was on, and landed on the platform. She walked away until she reached the heart of the city.

"Oh, great...I need to get my barrings. Next time I need to come up with some kind of time-schedule with Princess Celestia. It's like a maze in Canterlot when you're exhausted...maybe I shouldn't have stayed up studying strange animals in the EverFree Forest." Twilight groaned tiredly and kept walking towards the castle once she found her way.

Once Twilight had reached the castle, she immediately ran inside to the throne room. It seemed like all the other halls were dimmed or had no light. Twilight gulped, "Hello? Princess Celestia? Are you here? Luna?" she didn't get a reply, "Cadance?" beginning to worry, Twilight used her magic to light the way. She began to navigate the hallways of Canterlot Castle. "Wow. It's been so long since I walked around the palace. This isn't much better than the city, but at least it's almost day time so I can see where I'm going." Twilight paused, "Wait a minute...'almost day time'! That means Celestia should be raising the sun! But...where? Maybe I should just wait in the throne room...if I can find my way back."

Twilight began roaming the halls yet again. She ran into a guard she was familiar with, one of Luna's. "Oh, hey! Nightfury!"

Nightfury turned around, "Oh, hello Twilight! What are you doing here?"

"The princesses requested that I come to Canterlot this morning, but I kinda lost my way for not being here in so long. Could you direct me to the throne room, please?" Twilight asked.

"Oh, sure! Just go down the rest of this hall, take a left, and keep going straight, and you're there." Nightfury smiled.

Twilight remarked, "Thanks, Nightfury!" she trotted away down the hall.

"Anytime!" Nightfury continued his patrolling duties.

Twilight made it to the throne room, and by time she made it back, the princesses were already sitting on their thrones. Shining Armor stood on the side of Cadance's throne. All of them had been waiting for her.

"Princess Celestia, I'm so sorry if I was late, I forgot where I was going." Twilight explained.

Cadance replied, "It's alright, Twilight. You were only three minutes behind. Celestia, didn't you have news for her?"

"Oh, yes...Twilight, you know of Griffonstone, correct?" Princess Celestia questioned.

Twilight grinned, "Of course I do! I especially love their griffon scones! I've had them imported before, but I have never actually been to Griffonstone myself."

Princess Celestia continued, "Well, I hope you enjoy Griffonstone and it's qualities...because..."

"Because what?" Twilight began to get worried.

The princess turned to Luna and chuckled nervously, "Luna, why don't you explain?"

"That is rather polite of you, dear sister, but I believe Cadance has the honor of doing so." Luna responded.

Shining Armor grunted, "Oh, for crying out loud! I'll tell her!"

"Tell me what? What's going on?" Twilight questioned.

"Prince Talon has been rescued by a few of his griffon guards after being stranded on a mountain with an injured wing. With King Guto gone, Talon is his son, and is the heir to the throne of Griffonstone. Since Prince Talon is in charge now, he had threatened to invade Equestria and take all of its gold and riches as a revenge plan for us attacking them back in our history. He wants to avenge his ancestors which is completely unnecessary since we made peace with Griffonstone already. Talon doesn't think it's foolish and wishes to strike us anyway. Celestia and Luna tried to reason with him a few days ago in a meeting, but he would only accept one peace-offering to leave Equestria alone." Shining Armor said.

Twilight looked at him, "And that one thing would be?"

"A-A wife." Shining Armor stated.

Twilight laughed, "That's all? Well, who is he marrying? I could plan it out and organize it if you want, really, it's no trouble at--"

Shining Armor stopped her, "That won't be possible Twilight...because, it's your wedding..."

"M-My wedding? What?! You can't be serious! Please, tell me this is a joke!" Twilight shouted.

Princess Celestia frowned, "Unfortunately, it is not. As a Princess of Equestria, it is your duty to marry this griffon and move to Griffonstone along with him. If not, a war will breakout and both the griffons and ponies will battle. If you don't do this, everypony will be endangered. Children, families, even your friends."

Twilight was really upset, "I guess I understand, but if I move to Griffonstone, doesn't that mean I'll never see my friends again?"

There was a moment of silence, then Cadance spoke, "That's the way it has to be, Twilight, and we are all very sorry. But Celestia and Luna need to rule together or balance will be destroyed in Equestria, and your brother and I are already married. You are the only possible mare to unite our countries and make peace."

Twilight began to shed tears and her voice broke, "W-When does the wedding take place?"

"The wedding is to be held in four days here in Canterlot, but the reception is in Griffonstone, and you'll never be able to return once you leave. You can of course write to us and your friends, but you won't be allowed to see them physically." Princess Luna answered.

"Why won't I be able to?" Twilight questioned.

Princess Luna responded, "If you come back to Equestria, the treaty will be broken, and a battle will spread. That's the deal Celestia and I made with the griffons. I'm sorry, Twilight, but it is the only way our subjects will be safe."

Twilight's voice sounded like it was breaking up again, "I-I understand...I need to be alone for a while..."

"Very well, Twilight. Just return to the throne room tonight. That is when Prince Talon is arriving for dinner." Celestia mentioned.

Twilight asked, "Dinner?"

"We figured it was a bit unfair to just jump straight into a wedding, so we convinced Prince Talon that you two should get to know each other better." Cadance replied.

"Alright..." Twilight sighed and then flew back to Ponyville in her castle.

Princess Cadance frowned once she left, "I feel really bad for her...no pony should have to be forced into marriage. Especially if it isn't for love."

"In time I'm sure she'll grow on Prince Talon. He is about her age, he was lost in the mountains on an expedition only a few years ago." Princess Luna reminded them.

Princess Celestia smiled, "Do not worry about Twilight. She isn't even married yet. I'm sure that she'll have a plan once she is. She is our Twilight, after all."

Shining Armor also smiled, "Yeah, Twily always has an idea."

"Maybe it is better if we don't worry about it too much." Cadance agreed.

Princess Celestia asked, "Who wants some morning tea?"

They all muttered in agreement and began walking towards the garden to have some tea and teacakes.

Twilight was crying in her bedroom. "I can't...I don't know how I can go through with this...I don't want to marry somepony I don't love...even if we are having dinner later tonight. Plus, I'll be leaving my friends...I'll never see them again..."

"Twilight?" a voice called out. "Twilight, what's wrong?" it was Spike.

"Spike!" Twilight quickly wiped her tears away. "N-Nothing's wrong. What gives you the idea that something's wrong? Because I am totally fine. Is something wrong with you?"

Spike was confused then replied, "Uh, no, but I'll just leave you be a bit..."

"That would be best." Twilight sighed once Spike closed the door and walked away. "There has to be some way out of this..."

Spike snapped his claws, having an idea, "I know! I'll get our friends! Maybe they can cheer Twilight up!" Spike hopped on a stool near by and started writing letters on a desk.

Chapter Two ~ Dinner Date

A couple hours after Spike had written letters to Twilight's friends, they all arrived at the castle.

"So, Spike...where exactly is Twilight?" Rarity asked.

Spike replied, "She was in her room last time I saw her, she maybe somewhere else by now, though."

"Well, better safe than sorry. Come on, y'all." Applejack said.

They all walked down the hall, including Spike, towards Twilight's bedroom.

Fluttershy spoke, "She's not in here."

"Maybe she's in the kitchen?" Pinkie Pie jumped up, "Everypony is having lunch right about now!"

After that being said, they all decided to try the kitchen. "Agh! She's not in here either!" Rainbow Dash spat.

"Maybe she's in her library? Twilight does love to read." Fluttershy suggested.

Spike snapped his claw, "That's right! Twilight does afternoon reading!"

Applejack glared at Spike, "How on Earth did you not know where Twilight was if you know her schedule?"

"Hehehe...everypony makes mistakes?" Spike nervously smiled.

Rarity interrupted, "It doesn't matter, Twilight needs our help, so let's go!"

They all ran down the hallway into her library, which increased in size since her last home. Twilight was found reading a book, with several piled up next to her. However, Twilight didn't look as happy as she normally did when reading books.

"Twilight, are you okay, sugarcube?" Applejack asked.

Twilight looked up from her book, "Not really, but...don't worry about it."

"Now, Twilight. We are your friends, and whatever it is bothering you, we can help you through it." Rarity promised.

"I don't think you can help me this time, girls. I don't even know what to do myself." Twilight admitted.

Pinkie Pie gasped, "Is it because you missed brunch?! Sometimes ponies can get cranky because they missed brunch!"

"Pinkie, brunch isn't even a necessary meal." Applejack stated.

Rainbow growled, "Just what is up, Twilight?! There is clearly something bothering you!"

"Rainbow! That is no way to speak to her!" Fluttershy sternly said.

Twilight sighed, "No...Rainbow Dash is right, Fluttershy. You all deserve to hear what's happening."

"And...?" Spike added.

"I have to get married to Prince Talon." Twilight said.

The Mane Five all exchanged glances. Rarity cleared her throat, "And um...who is that?"

Twilight rolled her eyes, not feeling like wanting to explain the long and terrible story. "Maybe this will be easier." Twilight said, levitating a book off the shelf. "It's the newest book written by a librarian in Griffonstone. I just got it in the mail about two hours ago. Didn't have time to read it. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go back to studying my magic."

Rarity levitated the book, opening it up and flipping through the pages as they all sat down at a table, not with Twilight.

"Well, what does it say?" Rainbow Dash questioned.

"It's written in...griffon?" Rarity was confused.

Pinkie Pie smiled, "Ohh! Ohh! I can read griffon! Let me see!" Rarity levitated the book over to Pinkie, and she opened it up to the first page. She started to read it, "Long ago, we were ruled by a noble and wise king known as King Guto. He was the last king we griffons had. About five years before he passed away, King Guto had a son, Prince Talon. Prince Talon was kidnapped for ransom by the yaks of Yakyakistan. About three weeks after the pink pony and the blue-winged pony showed us the way of friendship, Prince Talon was discovered in a cave in the mountains. Prince Talon was indeed kidnapped, but while on an expedition searching for gold with a few other griffons. He did not return like the others did, but he is now home and wants revenge on Equestria. Why you may ask? Because the ponies and griffons have a bad history of battling and wars, after being defeated several times in the past, the griffons now want to avenge their ancestors and win for once."

"That is truly awful!" Rarity gasped.

Applejack was puzzled, "What I don't understand is, why does he want to marry Twilight?"

"Keep reading, Pinkie. " Fluttershy said.

"Okie dokie lokie!" Pinkie Pie smiled, "Now where was I? Oh, here!" she cleared her throat, "Prince Talon agreed only to take a wife in exchange for peace between the lands of Griffonstone and Equestria. Why would he want a pony bride when we have such an awful backstory with them? That is simple. He wishes to learn the way of friendship himself, and to learn that maybe ponies aren't so bad. Plus, he would gain a beautiful wife in the process. The future bride he wishes for is Princess Twilight Sparkle of Equestria?!" Pinkie Pie dropped the book.

"WHAT?!" they all shouted and gasped, including Spike.

Twilight turned and faced them, closing her book she had been reading. "It isn't my choice to do this."

"What do you mean?! You should have a choice! If you are engaged to him, shouldn't you be able to give him a yes or a no?!" Rarity demanded to know.

"I don't have that option. The options I have here are to marry Prince Talon and become the new griffon-pony queen, or see Equestria suffer through decades of war." Twilight sighed, "And I won't be able to see any of you ever again..."

"DOUBLE WHAT?!" Pinkie screamed. She started crying and hugged Twilight's legs. "WHY?!?! DON'T LEAVE US, TWILIGHT! PLEASE?!"

Rarity levitated Pinkie away from Twilight and sat her down next to herself and Rainbow Dash. "Why ever not?" Rarity asked.

Twilight replied, "I can only write to you, but coming home, even for a visit, would mean breaking the treaty. Which would also mean the griffons could attack us and there would be nothing or no pony to stop it."

"We're really sorry, Twilight. We'll miss you, but if this is really what you want to do..." Applejack trailed off.

"Well, I have a dinner date I have to get ready for tonight. In Canterlot I'm supposed to be meeting King Talon there. They feel like we should get to know each other a little before we actually get married. Not that it would really make a difference." Twilight looked upset.

Applejack asked, "How about you meet us for breakfast tomorrow in Canterlot then? The gals and I can take a train up there to meet ya."

Spike replied, "I'll come, too...wait a minute, Twilight. I just realized...if you have to live in Griffonstone for the rest of your life, where do I go?"

Twilight face-hoofed herself, "I never even thought of that...I'll ask Princess Cadance if you can stay in the Empire with her."

"I guess that's fair enough..." Spike answered.

"Good, now I need to get ready as I said. I'll see you all tomorrow morning." Twilight waved, and then flew off to Canterlot. She was supposed to be getting dressed up there. Two mane-stylist did her mane. A professional royal tailor made her a stunning blue dress. After her mane was up and her dress was on, along with the white shoes that went with it, she waited in a suite saved for her when visiting Canterlot. She looked into the vanity, and then looked at her crown on the counter. Twilight levitated her tiara on her head, then managed a small smile to herself after looking into the mirror again.

"Twilight, Prince Talon is waiting for you in the dining room." Princess Cadance said, "Celestia and Luna asked that I escort you."

As they were walking towards the dining room, Cadance noticed that Twilight was either nervous, upset, or both. She smiled down at her and stopped walking, "I can tell you are a bit anxious, but I promise you, we all talked to him before dinner once he arrived, he seems very friendly. We're surprised he even wants to possibly start a war."

"Thanks, Cadance..." Twilight grinned. "Makes me feel a little bit better."

"No problem." Cadance began walking again and Twilight remembered something.

"Oh, Cadance! Once I leave with Prince Talon, could Spike go to live with you and Shining Armor in the Crystal Empire? Somepony needs to look after him." Twilight stated.

Cadance looked down at her, "I'd be glad to, and I'm sure Shining wouldn't mind. It's always nice to see the little guy." they reached the dining room doors. "Are you sure you want to go through with this, Twilight? Once you go in there, there is no backing out of the deal."

Twilight gulped then let out a deep breath, "I will do it for Equestria."

"That's my sister-in-law I know. Doing what's right. Good luck, Twilight. Try to have fun." Cadance waved and walked away.

Twilight waved and nodded, then took another deep breath. "Stay calm...what's the worse that could happen?" she opened the doors and forced a smile. Prince Talon had been sitting at one end of a table, greeting her with a smile.

"Hello, my dear. You must be Princess Twilight." he said. Surprisingly, he didn't have a gruff and deep voice like the other griffons as Twilight had thought. It was more calming and soothing than anything, kind of a soft tone. Not as gentle as Fluttershy's or quiet, but not sounding scary or rude. "Won't you take a seat?" Talon politely asked. He flew up and pulled out her chair for her to take a seat in.

"Thank you." Twilight smiled.

Prince Talon also grinned, "Anything for my future wife." he flew back to his seat and noticed Twilight frowning. "Was that unsettling? I'm sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable."

"No, no. It's fine, I mean, you're right. I am going to be your future wife soon..." Twilight trailed off, not knowing what else to say. She felt like an imbecile and very nervous. She didn't even have feelings for this griffon, so why did she act like this?

Prince Talon was trying to think of something to say, he was just as nervous as Twilight was. "Uh, that's a lovely dress you're wearing."

"Thanks. Your bowtie isn't bad either." Twilight tried to go along with the small-talk, but she wasn't exactly good at flirting, nor did she want to do it. But if this was the creature she had to marry for the rest of her days, maybe as well try to enjoy it. Or at least fake it. Come on, Twilight. Make an effort. she thought to herself.

Four chefs poured out of the kitchen. Three had food platters, and another one a match. He lit the three candles in between the two and Twilight felt even more uncomfortable. A romantic candle-lit dinner for two? Are you kidding me? Twilight told herself. The other chefs put out plates in front of them. One plate had a biscuit with butter, another had a salad, and the last one had a oats in a bowl. Then water was served in glasses for their drink.

"Bon appetit." a chef said before walking away after bowing.

Twilight levitated the fork and scooped up some salad, taking a bite. "So, I've heard you are into books?" Talon brought up.

"Oh, yes. I love to read." Twilight replied, levitating a few oats and eating them.

After Talon swallowed a bite of salad, he continued, "What are your favorite kind of books to read?"

"I'm really into mystery stories, sometimes it's really entertaining!" Twilight smiled. She thought she was sounding a lot like a nerd, however.

"I love a good mystery novel every now and again, too. Have you ever heard of "The Missing Ruby--" Talon and Twilight finished in unison, "of the Saddle Arabian Forest!"

Twilight gasped, "It's only my favorite book!"

"Really? Mine, too!" Talon smiled.

Twilight was happy they had a lot in common. They both loved to read, they both loved plays, they also liked the Daring Do series. After the long conversation, they had eaten all their dinner. The chefs came out to take the dishes back into the kitchen. Talon and Twilight decided to go out onto the balcony for a while to look at the stars.

"Wait, wait, you really made a hole in Celestia's Gifted Unicorn Academy?!" Talon laughed.

Twilight chuckled, "Well, I got into the school, and as Princess Celestia's prized prodigy."

"That's amazing! I never thought unicorns at that age could cast such powerful magic." Talon stated.

"Neither did I, but apparently it is possible." Twilight smiled, "I actually would never had gotten my cutiemark if it weren't for my friend Rainbow Dash..." she frowned remembering she would never see her friends again in three more days.

Talon looked at her, "Why so upset all the sudden?"

"It's just...once I marry you, I'll never see my friends again...it would break the treaty and I would bring war on Equestria. I'm doing this for my country, after all..." Twilight sighed.

Talon was heart-broken, "So...you don't love me?"

Twilight stuttered, "I-I-I never said that, but I mean, all of this treaty-business just blew up in my face this morning...I don't think I'm ready." she wondered if she really had fallen in love with Talon. No, no. It's nothing but infatuation, Twilight. she said in her mind.

"I understand, but don't think of it as a treaty deal. I mean, am I really all that bad? You'll notice I'm not as mean and aggressive as those other griffons." Talon mentioned. He had a point, but Twilight still wasn't sure. She was torn up inside, and wasn't sure how to mend it.

"I'm actually getting really tired." Twilight yawned fakely, "Do you think we could call it a night?"

"Of course. I'll see you tomorrow morning at breakfast." Talon kissed her cheek, and then flew off. Twilight's face flushed red. Then she went to her suite.

"I cannot believe he kissed my cheek! We only met like two hours ago!" Twilight was disgusted, but a delighted at the same time. She didn't think anypony cared for her as much as Talon did. Not even Shining Armor or Cadance, and they had only knew each other a few short hours. "Maybe I am in love with him, maybe I'm not...I can't just leave my friends, though..." she undid her mane and got undressed, and set her crown down on her nightstand by the bed. She noticed Princess Celestia walking by her door. "Oh, princess!" Twilight stopped her.

"Oh, hello, Twilight. So how was dinner with Prince Talon?" she asked.

"It was...interesting. However, I can't exactly have breakfast with him tomorrow..." Twilight chuckled nervously.

Princess Celestia glared at her, "Whatever do you mean?"

"You see, I promised my friends I would have breakfast with them since I'm only going to be in Equestria for three more days. Do you think maybe Prince Talon and I could have tea tomorrow afternoon instead? We have to get ready for the wedding in two days, anyway." Twilight reminded.

Celestia didn't want to risk any chance of the treaty breaking, but she sighed, "Alright, Twilight. I understand you wish to see your friends for breakfast, and you may. Just be back before tomorrow at twelve. You must keep your promise for an afternoon tea."

Twilight hugged her mentor, "Thank you, princess! I won't let you down."

"I know you won't." she smiled, "Now why don't you go get some rest? I'll see you tomorrow afternoon at the garden gazebo."

Twilight grinned, and then went back into her room. "I'm upset I won't be able to see my friends ever again once the wedding is over, but maybe something will work out..." she sighed and then laid in her bed and went to sleep.

Chapter Three ~ Torn Inside

The next morning when Twilight woke up, the sun was ahead of her. She had slept in since she woke up early yesterday. "Oh, no! Please tell me I'm not late!" she unfolded her wings and began flying through her window down to the city. Ponies kept bowing, waving, and saying hi to her.

"Now what restaurant was it?" she looked around until she found the right one, "Aha! Couture Cafe! No doubt Rarity picked this place."

A waiter was in front of her when she entered, "Do you have a reservation?" he asked.

"Reservation? Who books a reservation for breakfast?" Twilight questioned.

"You'd be surprised, your highness. Now do you have a reservation?" he repeated.

Twilight looked at him, "No, I-I don't have a reservation."

"Then I'm afraid you'll have to wait for an open table." he retorted.

Rarity coughed, "This pony is with me, good sir."

"Name?" he questioned.

"Rarity." she responded.

He rolled his eyes, "Go right on in, your majesty."

Rarity scoffed once they reached the table, "You would think being a princess you'd have a VIP table or get noticed or something."

"Well, I was certainly noticed on the way here. Ponies couldn't stop waving and bowing to me." Twilight sighed, "Sometimes I hate being a princess. I'm not better than anypony else. I don't want them to think that."

"Come on? Ponies giving you crud and worshipping the ground you walk on? I'm sure that's the life." Rainbow Dash laughed.

Applejack chuckled, "Alrighty! How 'bout we quit chattin' and get to ordering? I'm starved!"

"Applejack. This is a classy diner, I suggest you stop acting like such...such a ruffian. Couture means fashion, after all." Rarity said.

"And that would be why you chose this restaurant." Twilight chuckled.

Rarity felt proud of herself, "Indeed."

"Aww! Can we order now?! I'm so hungry!" Pinkie Pie's stomach growled.

Fluttershy chuckled, "I think we're all hungry, Pinkie. But yes, can we?"

"Sure." Twilight smiled and her and Rarity both took a seat at the table.

A different waiter came over to their table, only this was a waitress, "Welcome to Couture Cafe, can I take your orders?"

"I would like some spring water and a plate of waffles." Rarity replied.

"Two apple fritters and some apple juice." Applejack responded as well.

Spike asked, "Do you have any sapphires?" the waitress looked at him, "Right, just some french toast sticks then."

"I'll have some pancakes and grape juice." Twilight requested.

Pinkie Pie smiled, "Make that pancakes for me, too! Chocolate chip, please! Ohh, and some strawberry milk!"

"Alright, and you?" the waitress wrote down the orders using her magic, and then looked at Fluttershy.

Fluttershy looked up at her, "Just a blueberry muffin and some water."

"Very well, your food will be out momentarily." she said as she walked away towards the kitchen.

Rarity asked, "So, Twilight, how was your dinner with the prince last night?"

"Oh, yeah. I completely forgot about that." Applejack remarked.

Twilight chuckled nervously, "Well, after we ate, we got to know each other better, and then we went onto the balcony to look at the stars. That was pretty much it."

"Sure you're not leaving anything out?" Rainbow Dash pressured on her.

Fluttershy looked at Twilight, "I have to agree with Rainbow. I think you might be hiding something else."

After having all of her friends stare at her, she came clean, "Alright, alright...he...he..."

"He what?" Rarity asked, trying not to flip out.

"He kissed my cheek..." Twilight responded quietly.

Rarity squealed, "That is amazing news!"

"It is? I don't see how." Twilight replied, "That just means I'm one day closer to leaving Equestria forever."

"No...but! You are going to be the first of us to be married, darling!" Rarity was excited, trying to contain herself in her seat, "I thought it would be me, but congratulations to you!"

"Whoa, whoa! The wedding hasn't even happened yet, and to be honest...I'm not sure if I want to go through with it..." Twilight answered, "I can't back out, though..."

"Well, to me, he sounds like a really cool guy. Why don't you marry him, Twi?" Rainbow Dash questioned.

Twilight groaned, "I-I don't know!"

The waitress came back with their food, "If there is anything else you need, just call for me." she walked away to continue working.

Twilight looked down at her food, and as her friends started eating, she stood up, "You know, I'm suddenly not very hungry...I'll catch up with you all later..." she walked out of the restaurant.

"Twilight?" Spike started to get up, and then Applejack set him back down by grabbing his shoulder.

"Let her go, Spike. I'm sure she'll be better soon." AJ told him.

Twilight went back to her castle in Ponyville, "This is probably the last time I'll see my home..." she walked around and looked at the memories. She looked up at the chandelier that her friends made for her. Twilight had flashbacks of her and her friends, working together to do great things. Like fighting off Nightmare Moon.

The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us.

You still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work!

But it did! A different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all... are my friends! You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: the element of... magic!

After shedding a tear and shutting her eyes, she had another flashback. When they defeated Discord.

Oh, Applejack, don't lie to me. I'm the one who made you a liar. Will you ever learn?

I'll tell you what we've learned Discord. We've learned that friendship isn't always easy. But there's no doubt it's worth fighting for.

Ugh, gag. Fine, go ahead, try and use your little Elements. Friend me. Just make it quick. I'm missing some excellent chaos here!

All right, ladies, let's show him what friendship can do!

Wait, wait, wait! Okay!

Huh. What's this? No. NO!!!

Twilight started crying, and then she heard a voice.

"Twilight? Are you okay?" it was Prince Talon.

She turned around surprised, "W-What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be in Canterlot?"

"Celestia said we were having tea this afternoon, but when you didn't show up, I got worried. Cadance mentioned I might be able to find you here." he explained.

"Oh...right, sorry..." Twilight looked away, "Let's just go to Canterlot..."

Talon knew something was wrong with her, but thought it would be better not to ask. He flew with her to Canterlot. Once they reached the garden gazebo, they sat down at a table Luna had set up for them a while ago. Twilight levitated the teapot and poured tea into both their cups.

"So...Twilight, care to tell me about some of your friends?" Talon asked.

Twilight sighed, "Well, there's Rainbow Dash. She's in Wonderbolts training, and an impressive athlete. Rainbow can be a bit agressive sometimes, however. Then there's Pinkie Pie, always hyper and trying to cheer me up. She also throws really fun parties. Rarity is into fashion and style, sometimes a drama-pony, but she's still one of my best friends. Rarity even designs her own outfits. Fluttershy is shy and sweet, she loves animals. I feel bad for her at times since she's so sensitive. Lastly, Applejack is a really good friend. Hard-working, she runs her own apple business with her family, and AJ's also honest. To me, all my friends mean the world."

Talon looked at his cup of tea, "I wish I had friends...I'm glad to see you so happy, though."

"You don't have any friends?" Twilight questioned.

"Nope...you see, when I was a little griffon, I loved nothing more than a good adventure. When a group of other explorers and I went on an expedition for gold, an avalanche separated us. I was alone, and then yaks found me. They were from Yakyakistan and they kidnapped me, trying to use me for ransom. With most griffons believing I was dead, of course they didn't respond to me being kidnapped, so eventually they sent a yak out to put me back where I was found. After I was alone, I had to survive on my own in a cave and with my surroundings. Then a squad of guards found me. I was proud to return to Griffonstone, the town looked much better than it had in years." Talon said.

Twilight was impressed, "Wow..."

"I hope I can meet some friends soon. It gets really lonely in a big castle by yourself." Talon replied.

"I know how that feels..." Twilight answered.

Talon responded, "How so?"

"Well, you've seen my palace. The only one I have to share it with is my assistant, Spike. He's a dragon." Twilight said.

"You have an assistant that's a dragon? And he doesn't try to eat your castle or burn it down?" Talon questioned.

"Why would he try to eat it?" Twilight pondered.

Talon explained, "Well, he's a dragon, and dragons eat jewels and gems. Isn't your castle made of crystals?"

"I guess it is, but this dragon can control himself, and he is only a baby one." Twilight replied.

Talon remarked, "I see...well, I think I've had enough tea for now. Would you like to go for an evening flight later on?"

"That sounds like fun. Sure." Twilight smiled.

Talon grinned, "Great! See you later." he took off and flew towards his own suite.

Luna came out from the castle, "Don't worry, Twilight, I'll clean this up."

"Thanks, Luna." Twilight smiled and decided to go inside for something to eat since she skipped breakfast.

Chapter Four ~ Another Day

Twilight went into the kitchen and ate a daffodil and daisy sandwich. Afterwards, she drank some chocolate milk and then cleaned up. After eating, she felt refreshed and then went into her bedroom after catching up on her studies for a few hours. She stared out on the balcony as the sun went down. "Just two more days...and tomorrow we do fittings and decide what we're doing..."

Talon hadn't heard what she said, but popped up out of nowhere, "Hello!"

"Ahh!" Twilight jumped back.

He chuckled, "Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you."

"I-It's fine." she replied while he helped her up.

"Well, ready for our evening flight like you promised?" he smiled.

Twilight used her magic to shut the balcony doors, "Of course."

Talon and Twilight flew off together into the night sky, the sun not quite set yet, but almost. "Oh, I have a surprise for you!"

"Really? What is it?" Twilight questioned.

"Can't tell you that! It wouldn't be a surprise, now would it?" he grinned and held her hoof while flying, "Close your eyes." Twilight shut her eyes and trusted him to guide her. They flew closer to the ground, Twilight not noticing. Talon let go of her hoof once they reached a spot in the Canterlot garden. "Alright, open them!"

Twilight gasped, "I-It's amazing." she saw a picnic laid out for them, and fireflies near the bushes, since it was dark now. To be honest, the fireflies did light up the area so it was easier to see. "Did you do this all yourself?" she asked.

"I certainly did. Not necessarily the fireflies, but they do add a nice touch, don't you think?" he remarked.

Twilight blushed a bit and nodded. Then they both sat down on the blanket. Twilight levitated some apple cider and drank a bit, so did Talon, only lifting it with his claw instead.

"Wow, you really didn't know?" Twilight asked.

Talon sighed, "Yep...I didn't know my father passed away until I returned from being rescued."

"And your wing is all better after being crushed?" she questioned.

"Eh, still hurts a little bit here and there, other than that, it's fine." he cringed after trying to move it from his side. It didn't hurt too much, but after flying it made it worse.

Twilight looked at his wing, "Hold still."

"Why? What are you--?" Talon was cut off. Twilight cast a spell on his wing that healed it instantly.

"Try moving it now." she smiled.

Talon opened his wing, and then closed it to his side again, "Wow, how did you do that?"

Twilight rolled her eyes and chuckled, "Years of practicing magic."

"No wonder you're so smart! I haven't read a good book in so long since being trapped on that mountain." he replied.

"Well, I have a library you can check out anytime you--" Twilight frowned, "Oh...right..."

Talon looked at her, "Are you alright? You've seemed upset most of the day."

"I just don't know if I want to be part of this...this treaty anymore, but I have to for the good of Equestria, but then there's you and I kind of..." she stopped herself, "Nothing, nevermind!" she chuckled nervously.

"Do you actually have feelings for me?" he questioned.

Twilight sighed, "I don't know, maybe...I just feel split. On one hoof, I have my friends and I'm going to miss them, the on the other hoof I have to marry you to make peace between our countries."

"I don't want to force you to do something you don't wanna, but I honestly really do love you, Twilight. You've shown me that ponies and griffons can get along, you're really smart, and you are...well, attractive." Talon admitted.

Twilight blushed, "R-Really?"

"Yeah, and I know you're a bit upset that you are being married to me in two days, but I promise you'll love it in Griffonstone! Since I left, everything looks brand new. The castle, the village, and we even had the library fixed up." Talon grinned.

Twilight smiled, "The deal doesn't seem as bad now, but...I really am going to miss my friends..."

"You could make new ones in Griffonstone, I know they aren't ponies, but a lot of griffons are really nice and have changed since...what were their names? Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie visited." Talon said.

"Thanks, but...it isn't the same. They just wouldn't be my friends I took the time to get to know, all the adventures we've been on...I'll also miss Spike. I've kept him since he was an egg." Twilight explained.

Talon felt really bad about this treaty now, realizing how much pain he'd be causing Twilight. He knew it had to be done, or his army would attack Equestria. Even if he himself let Twilight go, the ponies would still be in danger. "Look, Twilight...there's something I didn't tell you before, but this treaty was my fathers doing before he died."

"What do you mean?" Twilight was puzzled.

"My father does want me to avenge our ancestors and take the gold from Equestria for all the bad history our lands have had, but my grandfather wanted a more peaceful approach. He wanted my father to marry a pony and unite the two kingdoms. My dad didn't listen and took the violent road. I figured since he is gone, I could do what I wanted. I decided that maybe I should marry a princess from here and unite our lands, but my royal adviser is technically in charge until I become king, and he said I could wed a pony, but he also wrote in a document at the meeting the princesses and I had that war could be brought upon if the treaty is not fulfilled." Talon confessed.

Twilight was confused, "And you were forced into the treaty, too?"

He nodded, "At first I wondered what I had been thinking, you know, on the way here for my four-day visit. I didn't want to force somepony to marry me just because of a dumb treaty and my stupid relatives. I admit, when I first met you, I wasn't interested. Then as I got to know you, I started having feelings and caring about you. I may have only known you for a few days, but I do love you..." Twilight blushed a lot and stared at him. "I-I said too much, didn't I--?" Twilight cut him off by kissing him, this time on the beak. Talon and Twilight both blushed afterwards. "Well, um...that was..."

Twilight blushed, "Nice..."

"Oh, um, it's getting late, w-why don't I take you back?" Talon suggested.

"Okay." Twilight smiled, evaporated the picnic area to clean it up, and then flew up with him back to their suites. Being a gentlecolt, Talon dropped her off first.

Talon smiled down at her before flying away, "If you need anything, I'll be in the next suite over."

Twilight kissed his cheek, "Alright." after he flew away, Twilight went into her own room, shutting the balcony doors behind her. She also pulled the curtains over them. She yawned, "Well...time for bed." she levitated her crown off and onto her vanity, then climbed into bed. Twilight blew out a candle on her nightstand, and then slept.

Chapter Five ~ Cold Hooves

Once Twilight woke up, she thought everything last night was a dream. Then she realized it wasn't and started worrying, jumping out of bed. "There...okay, there is no way I kissed Prince Talon or have any feelings for him! There is just no way!" Twilight had no clue what to do, she was lost and torn up. For once in her life, she had no solution. There was a knock on her door. Twilight gasped and used her magic to make her bed and levitated her tiara onto her head. "Come in."

"Twilight, what are you doing up here? Your wedding is starting in an hour." Cadance remarked.

Twilight was confused, "A-An hour? What do you mean? I just woke up! Besides, the wedding isn't until tomorrow!"

Princess Cadance replied, "Yes, but your friends finished everything for the wedding. Rarity already knew your size after making so many dresses for you in the past, and managed to get everypony's done. Prince Talon told us about your little date at breakfast, and we decided that we could wrap the treaty up sooner by moving the wedding to today. Aren't you excited?!"

"I'm...thrilled..." Twilight lied, "Can't wait! However, don't you think it's still a bit too early for the whole wedding thing?" she chuckled nervously.

Cadance giggled, "Wedding jitters, I understand! I felt the same way once Shining Armor and I got married. Once you're up at that altar, you'll be fine. I mean, you've given speeches in front of Ponyville before, being married in front of all of Equestria should be no different."

"All of Equestria?" Twilight's eyes dilated. Twilight wasn't scared of all the ponies that would be attending, but more of the fact this was a life-changing decision in front of a large crowd.

"You aren't nervous are you? Normally that's Fluttershy's thing. This is a royal wedding, after all." she responded.

Twilight looked at her, "Just give me a moment and I'll go get ready for the wedding. I'll see you there."

"Alright, Twilight. See you there." Cadance left the room, and Twilight left not long after to get her dress on and mane done. Rarity levitated her tiara onto her, only this one was sparkling and white, just like her shoes.

Rarity shed a few tears, "You look beautiful, Twilight! Just wait until everypony else sees you!"

"It is a nice dress, thank you so much, Rarity!" Twilight pretended to be glad. She did love the dress, but not the wedding. Twilight did love Prince Talon, but wasn't sure what was going to happen today. All the pressure wasn't good on her.

"Oh, you are quite welcome! You should see the girls dresses, they're marvelous as well!" Rarity squealed, "I just love weddings!"

Twilight chuckled nervously again, "I can tell."

Rarity gasped, "It's almost time for the wedding! You'd better go meet your brother at the doors."

"Right." Twilight frowned after turning around, and walked towards the doors. Rarity had gone the other way to meet up with the girls near the altar.

Fluttershy whispered, "It's almost time, do you think she'll really marry Prince Talon? And that we'll never see her again?"

"I dunno, but it isn't looking too good." Applejack replied in a whisper.

Rainbow Dash chuckled then whispered, "Come on, guys! There's no way Twilight would ditch us! We're her best friends!" she coughed, "Of course, I'm her better friend 'cause I'm more awesome than all of you put together. No offence." They all looked at her annoyed, "What?"

"Nothing." Rarity scoffed.

Pinkie Pie squeaked quietly, "Shh! The wedding's starting!"

Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo hopped down the isle with flower-baskets, since they had been the flower-fillies. Spike followed behind and stood by Luna once he reached the altar's steps. Shining Armor walked Twilight up the isle to the altar as well, "Good luck, kid." Shining whispered, then smiled and walked to Cadance's side. He tried not to cry since it was his sister's big day, but Shining convinced himself to hold it in.

Princess Celestia looked around the room, and then spoke with a smile, "Fillies and gentlecolts, we have gathered here today to witness the union of not only two hearts, but two kingdoms. The lands of Griffonstone and Equestria. Sadly the griffons are not here, as they are preparing for the reception later on tonight. There is an after-party after this ceremony that everypony is invited to, however. Now that that is out of the way, lets move onto the marriage. Prince Talon, do you take this young alicorn to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

"I do." Prince Talon smiled at Twilight, but got a bit concerned when she looked really anxious.

"And do you Princess Twilight Sparkle take Prince Talon to be your lawfully wedded husband?" Princess Celestia questioned.

"I-I..." Twilight looked around the room, ponies began hanging off the edge of their hooves, and even her friends looked scared.

Fluttershy looked up at her and gasped silently, "Twilight..."

"Aw, sugarcube...don't do it..." Applejack muttered.

"I don't." Twilight looked down at her hooves, then started crying, "I'm sorry..." she ran down the isle and out into the halls.

Everypony in the crowd gasped and started murmuring to each other. Rarity started bawling her eyes out, and her friends went to comfort her.

"What are we going to do now? The griffons could attack in the morning once the news spreads!" Cadance shook.

Princess Luna frowned, "I just cannot believe what Twilight has done. She knows better than to do so."

Princess Celestia sighed and then looked up to her subjects, "Everypony, please calm down! Step into the garden for some refreshments, and we'll be right back."

Prince Talon was heart-broken, "I...I need to be alone right now..." he flew off to his suite. After a few minutes of crying, he stopped himself and gritted his teeth, "She may be a smart mare, but she wasn't wise to fool with me like that..." he began to get angry and clench his claw, "She is going to pay...now I know what my father meant when he said you can't trust ponies..." he started walking towards Twilight's room after sending a letter to Griffonstone letting them know to attack soon.

Twilight was crying on her bed. She heard a knock on her door, but was afraid to answer it, especially since it sounded furious. She hopped off her bed and hid under it. The door burst open and broke once Prince Talon managed to get it opened, "Alright...where are you?" he snarled.

Twilight's heart started racing in fear, and she began shedding tears, but tried to keep it quiet. She didn't exactly want to be discovered. Talon shredded up her bed, and shattered her vanity by tipping it over. "GET OUT HERE!" he yelled. Twilight decided to make a run for it, and teleported to the outside of the door and ran as fast as she could down the hall.

"Oh, no you don't!" Talon flew after her, and then Twilight began to fly after noticing. She flew out a nearby window, followed by Talon. It was starting to get dark.

"Talon, please!" Twilight begged, "I don't want to hurt you!"

Talon growled, "What is a pony like you going to do to me?! Griffons are one of the strongest creatures!"

Twilight had a tear fall from her eye, and she zapped his wing, and he fell a bit, but flew back up.

"It's going to take more than a light to finish me!" Talon screeched.

Twilight's eyes widened as he charged at her, and he kicked her down to Earth into the forest. She hit a tree and fell on the ground, Talon completely unharmed. Twilight's mane was a wreck, she looked miserable and tired, and her dress was torn from the fall. "Time to end this..."

"Talon...don't..." Twilight tried to block him, but Talon clawed her eye. Only her eyelid started to bleed.

After seeing what he had done, Talon gasped and instantly became more calm and sane. "Twilight...Twilight, I'm sorry..."

She ran away from him in pain and fear, crying as she ran into the forest. She didn't know where she was going, but at least it was more safe than near him.

He watched her run, "Twi..." he looked at one of his claws, what have I done? he asked himself.

Chapter Six ~ This Is How It Ends

Twilight collapsed in a clearing of the forest, catching her breath. "Where...where am I? I don't remember this area..." she began to get scared once she heard animals. "Ohh, I hope somepony comes by soon..." she tried to use her magic to teleport and also tried flying, but she was too weak. Especially from skipping breakfast.

Back in Canterlot, no pony had known what Talon did, surprisingly. As he walked by Twilight's room, he frowned. Talon saw all the damage he'd done to her suite. He walked out onto her balcony and remembered last night when they flew off to their picnic. He looked closer once he saw figures fly by the moon, then he gasped, "Griffons!" he ran down the halls and tried to inform Celestia, but Luna beat him to it, since she'd been on guard. After Celestia heard what happened, she angrily walked up to him.

"You called your entire army to attack my kingdom after the treaty unexpectedly broke?!" she growled.

Talon sneered, "Are you really going into this right now?! Twilight's missing!"

All the princesses and Shining Armor gasped, "She's WHAT?!"

"How could she possibly have gone missing?!" Celestia asked frantically.

"I-It's all my fault, I got so mad after she abandoned me at the altar, and I scared her off..." Talon admitted.

Shining Armor snarled and grabbed the collar of Talon's tuxedo, "What did you do to my sister?!"

"She's in the EverFree Forest!" Talon snapped.

"Well, we have to go find her, come on, girls!" Rainbow Dash shouted.

Princess Celestia stopped them, "No, you need to help fend off the griffons."

"You know what, I'm going after her." Talon retorted.

Shining Armor glared at him, "Why would we let you go after Twilight? To run her off some more?!"

"BECAUSE I CARE ABOUT HER!" Talon screamed.

As the battle was going on around them, that was all they heard during a moment of silence along with panicked and frightened shrieks. "Very well, Talon. You have one chance to bring Twilight back to us." Princess Celestia stated.

Princess Luna's jaw dropped, "Sister, what are you doing? Do you not remember that he lost her in the first place?"

"Look, maybe I did, but that is all the more reason why I should trail her down. She's my responsibility." Talon said sternly, putting his claw down.

Shining Armor growled, "Fine, punk. But you better not come back empty-hoofed, or I swear..."

"I'll find her." Talon repeated. He flew off before anypony else could threaten him.

Twilight started crying in the forest since she was scared, but then she saw two timberwolves. Come on, Twilight, you've dealt with enough of these... she told herself. She felt a bit stronger after resting, and attempted casting an absent-memory spell, but it seemed like they were either impervious to magic or she was still too weak to have any effect. Once they got closer and she realized her spell fizzled, she began running, also tried flying, but her wings were still sore. "Ahhh!" her hoof got stuck in-between two rocks and she gasped. "Good...timberwolf, nice timberwolf..." she shielded her eyes and then heard a crash and the timberwolves whimper. Talon had cut both of them with his claws, and then he kicked them until they fled and ran back into the woods.

"Are you alright?" Talon asked.

Twilight was confused, "Why are you here?"

"Answer me, are you okay?" Talon said again.

"Yes, I'm fine...but..." she was cut off.

Talon sighed and tried not to cry, "I know what I did was wrong...I shouldn't have struck you with my claw, and...your eye looks terrible...it's swollen...and it's...it's all my fault..." he began sobbing.

"It's really my fault." Twilight retorted.

"How is it your fault? Just how is it your fault I clawed your eye? How is it your fault you ran off? It was all me..." Talon looked down at the ground.

Twilight shook her head, "I shouldn't of left you at the altar. I was being selfish. I didn't know if I cared about you more or my friends, and I was just really torn apart on the inside. The reason I said 'I don't' was because I wanted to be with my friends. Marrying you meant I wouldn't ever see them again. You promised me so much happiness even without them, and I wasn't sure what to think. I was under a lot of stress and I had no idea what to do."

"W-Why didn't you just tell me in the first place? We could have worked something out, you know." Talon responded, and he stopped crying.

Twilight frowned, "I'm sorry..."

"It's fine, I'm just glad you're safe." he hugged her tight, and then gasped, "We need to get back! The griffons are attacking the palace!"

"The griffons are what?!" Twilight asked worriedly.

Talon remarked, "I'll explain everything later, for now we need to get back!" Twilight tried to fly, but then fell after getting a few inches off the ground. "You're hurt, you can't fly..."

"No, no I can. We need to get back." Twilight tried again, but failed.

"Okay, that's it. I need to carry you, you can't do this yourself." Talon didn't care what she said, he put her on his back and then told her to hold on tight. He took off into the sky, dodging the griffons fighting pegasus guards in the air once they reached the castle. "Brace yourself!" he shouted, crashing into a stain-glassed window.

"Twily!" Shining Armor ran over to her after zapping a griffon and helped her up, "Are you okay? What did he do to you?"

Twilight coughed, "I-I'm fine...ow! And Talon didn't do anything except save me. I'm grateful for it."

Princess Cadance flew over past the griffons as Celestia distracted them, "Thank goodness you're safe! But...what happened to the two of you?"

"Long story, we'll explain later. For now, we're too beat up to really do anything to help..." Talon groaned in pain from the pieces of glass lodged in his wing.

As the griffons saw Talon back with Twilight, they immediately stopped fighting and surrounded them. "Alright, back up. Give them some air." Princess Celestia demanded.

"We must get them to bed, they need rest." Princess Luna requested. They both passed out, and two guards each took them to their separate suites, but when the one guard got to Twilight's room, it was trashed. He gently set her down and went to Celestia.

"Uh, your highness, Princess Twilight's room is a mess. Where shall I put her?" he asked.

Princess Celestia was surprised, "Well, we'll have to get that room fixed...in the mean time, keep her in the next suite over."

"Of course." the guard replied, then he returned to where he left Twilight and put her in the bed over in the next room. The next day, Twilight woke up and held her head.

"What happened?" she asked, Twilight thought she was talking to herself, but there was somepony else in the room.

"Well, after battling off Talon, and being chased, you looked pretty banged up. Both of you actually, so we decided to give you guys some bed-rest." Princess Cadance replied.

Twilight frowned, "Talon and I...we had a fight?"

Cadance nodded, "Unfortunately. And he seemed really nice, too. Anyways, I brought you some hot tea, I thought it would make you feel a bit better." she levitated a cup and poured some tea in it. Twilight took it and drank some.

"Where is Talon, by the way?" Twilight questioned.

"He's in a few suites over. Prince Talon was pretty miserable, too. He did save you from a few timberwolves and brought you back, however." Cadance responded.

Twilight was a bit confused, "How do you know about the timberwolves?"

"Talon explained everything once he woke up about an hour ago. He also told us about how his past relatives wanted him to do this, not himself." Cadance said.

"But he said he loved me." Twilight mentioned.

Cadance looked at her, "He does love you, but I'm not sure what we're going to do about the wedding. Why did you say no in the first place? Everything was going fine."

Twilight sighed, "I just couldn't decide between my friends and Talon...I love them all so much. Marrying Talon meant I wouldn't ever see them again. I wasn't sure if I was ready to make that commitment. Then after a while, I realized I was just thinking about myself. I wanted to stay with my friends over protecting Equestria. That was not my responsibility, my place was to marry Prince Talon and bring peace between two countries. I couldn't do that, but now I think I can. Especially since I love Talon back..."

"Well...that explains a lot." Cadance blinked blankly, "But on the bright-side, looks like we're having a wedding after all!"

"Yeah, but when? I think we're both too roughed up to move." Twilight frowned.

Princess Cadance thought a moment, "I'll have to discuss it over with Celestia and Luna, but it won't be before you two are fully recovered."

"Alright." Twilight replied.

Three and a half months later...

"I now pronounce you mare and griffon." Princess Celestia declared and smiled, "You may kiss the bride."

Ponies cheered as Talon and Twilight kissed, officially uniting the countries. Pinkie Pie sobbed loudly then gasped, "This calls for a party!" after the wedding, everypony went outside to the after-party.

"Well, this certainly has been one crazy wedding." Rarity chuckled.

"Yeah! It was loco in the coco! Speaking of which, is the cake chocolate or vanilla, AJ? I'm sooo hungry!" Pinkie Pie jumped up into the air.

Applejack laughed, "I made it both, Pinkie."

Pinkie stared into the distance like her mind exploded then smiled wide, "TWO flavors?! That's like two, two times the yumminess!" she ran towards the dessert table.

"Pinkie Pie, wait up!" Applejack ran after her, knowing how she got around cupcakes, cakes, and other sweets.

Rarity smiled, "I'd better go find Sweetie Belle. We might have to leave soon, but congratulations, Twilight!"

"Thank you, and if you do leave, see you next week, Rarity!" Twilight waved.

Talon walked over to Twilight, "I've got some punch for us." he grinned.

"Thanks." she smiled and levitated one of glasses and drank a bit.

"You know, maybe it won't be so bad having ponies in Griffonstone. If we got along, I'm sure they can, too." Talon chuckled, "Even though we may have...had to fight to make it happen."

Twilight laughed, "Yeah, but it all turned out well in the end."

He smiled at her, "Well, we don't have to leave for Griffonstone for about another hour. Want to dance?"

"I'd love to." she grinned and they both started dancing with everypony else.

"Oh, and maybe having your little dragon assistant around wouldn't be so bad after all...I'm sure he'd love Griffonstone." Talon said.

Twilight smiled and hugged him.

"The end!" Pinkie Pie jumped up.

Applejack shook her head, "Pinkie!"

Pinkie Pie laughed and then jumped back down off a table.