Episode 5 - The Party Of Parties

For the first time in weeks, the snowfall that had almost been continuous had broken. No longer was it frigidly cold outside, as the temperature had become more mild. Though most were still wearing at least a couple of layers during the day as they went about their business. And it was back to business as usual in Ponyville. Almost. Most of the town had now been rebuilt and was open for business. But not everything was the same. Many of the updates to infrastructure were now in place, such as the electric lighting. For many of the longtime residents, it was one change they were still getting used to. Many other buildings had been updated to have some form of electricity, which a lot of people did take advantage of. For Peter, this was a godsend. For months his communicator had been without power, locking away all the information he had stored in it. While not a large device, it was still capable of holding a significant amount of data, personal or otherwise. If Peter could figure out a way to charge it, he would have access to everything stored on it once again. Not that Rarity would give him the time to think about it, since she herself had been too busy finalizing some clothing for him to wear.

“Stop dilly dallying, Peter. I have to get your suit ready for the Gala. Which is TOMORROW.” For the past few days, all Peter had been hearing about was exactly that - The Grand Galloping Gala. Yet another event that had yet to be properly explained to him. “So if I'm clear on this, the Gala is a massive celebration to commemorate the end of the year, right? So it's just a big New Years party.” A large gasp escaped from the seamstress. If she was capable of poking Peter with her needles, she would have. Only for her to remember that she lost some already by mistake due to his tough skin. “The Grand Galloping Gala is not JUST a party, Mr. Parker. It is the gathering of many of Equestrias wealthiest, most influential and prominent figures in the land. Although it can be a… mixed bag.” The tone in Rarity's voice gave the impression that something had happened at a previous attendance. “Sounds like something spoiled your night. What happened?” A few moments of silence passed while Rarity struggled to find the right words to say.

“One of Princess Celestia's relatives, Prince Blueblood. He had been a crush of mine for years. And when Twilight was able to get us all tickets to the Gala, I thought this was my chance! To meet my dream prince and have him become my lover!” The passion in Rarity's voice fell away just as quickly as she had summoned it. “But… I soon found out that he was anything but a gentleman. He was rude, careless, and self absorbed. Not the kind of man one looks for. It was a tough night for all of us. We each had a vision of how things would play out, and we all left disappointed. Except for the donut shop that saved the night.” Even with the sadness in her voice, it was clear to tell that Rarity had much love for her friends. Peter had seen firsthand just how close they all were, how ready they were to put their lives on the line for each other when Starlight came after Twilight. “You on the other hand, Peter, are very much a real gentleman. In a very forward thinking way.”

“I HOPE that was a compliment.” Peter wondered to himself. In the corner of his sight from the mirror, he made out several dress bags, all with symbols attached to them. Peter recognised them as the symbols the girls tended to have on their clothing, leading him to believe that their Gala gowns must have been inside the bags. Rarity noticed Peter's gaze, using her hands to square his head back into position. “Now, now, Mr. Parker. It's far too early for that. You shall see us ladies in all of our finery tomorrow night. If I had more time I would have offered to make the Sirens something. But from what I’ve been told, they have their own plans in that regard.” It was definitely going to be interesting to see the Sirens show up. Not because anyone would recognise them, but because they would for sure turn heads. A few moments later and the last of Rarity's work was done. “And there we have it! Now let’s have a good look at you!”

From what Peter could feel, the suit was possibly the best he had ever worn. It wasn’t super baggy, but it didn’t constrict his movement. The waistcoat was a nice touch too. “Can't say I’ve ever looked this fancy. Nice work, Rares.” Peter was ready to take the suit jacket off in the same manner he did with most of his coats, but a stern glare from Rarity made him rethink that entire plan. Instead, he very carefully removed it and handed it over, almost like he was a surgeon handing over a vital organ. Though if he wasn't careful, he might lose a few of his own. While Rarity searched for another dress bag, Peter swiftly changed into his regular attire, new jacket included. He had been practically attached to it since he received it, a fact Rarity very much revelled in. “Now then, by tomorrow I should have your suit cleaned and packed. Once we all meet here, you WILL be responsible for it. Is that clear?

“Yes ma’am! Absolutely.” It may have felt like he was being singled out, but something told Peter that the girls had all been given the same ultimatum regarding their Gala attire. Between his Spidey suits and his new jacket, Peter knew just how much Rarity took pride in her work, and the quality of it. Fortunately, like the girls, this wouldn't be the first time he had been around those in high society. Though this would count among the times he was a guest. Other times, he had a job to do.

NEW YORK CITY, FOUR YEARS AGO

“Good thing I had this dress suit lying around. Jonah would have killed me if I missed out on this bash!” There weren't many New Year's parties this extravagant. And nobody did extravagance more like Tony Stark. The genius, billionaire, playboy and philanthropist had turned the upper floors of Stark Tower into a Smorgasbord
of who's who. Not just from New York, but from around the world. Not too far from where Peter stood, the king of Wakanda, T’Challa, was in mid-conversation with Oliver Queen, the owner of Queen Industries from Star City. Billionaire tech moguls and politicians chatted over glasses of overpriced champagne. All Peter had to do was take some good shots (with his now upgraded camera) and dip. Nothing too difficult. That was until a familiar face recognised him across the room - the recent addition to Midtown High's Sophomore Year, and new friend to Peter, Harry Osborn.

“Hey Peter! Surprised to see you here. You on assignment with the Bugle?” Harry noted, his eyes glancing down at Peter's press pass, which was the only reason he even got remotely close to the party at all. “Yep. Jolly Jonah has me on this rather than anything Spider-Man related. Says he wants one of his more “professional” photographers to snap photos of the webhead.” Not that they would have any luck like he did. With his new camera, Peter had been perfecting the fine art of taking photos of himself while as Spider-Man. Though that may have involved wrecking it more than once. “Yet all you're doing is acting like a fly on the wall. Come on man, you gotta REALLY get up close and personal. Follow me!” Harry decreed, dragging Peter by the arm. The pair were headed towards one of the private booths, reserved for when the rich and powerful wanted a break. This one must have been for Harry.

“Peter, allow me to introduce you to my dad - Norman Osborn!” Sitting in the booth was indeed Norman Osborn. Founder of Oscorp Industries, one of New York's biggest tech and science firms. And someone Peter very much admired, himself being almost lost for words at the sight. “Um, Mr. Osborn. It's an honour, sir.” Standing up, Norman did look somewhat imposing. Then again, he needed to be that way. But his demeanor changed on a dime, going from serious to gentle before anything was said. “Come now, Peter. No need to be nervous. It's nice to finally meet you. And please, call me Norman.” He extended a hand, which Peter took with great gusto. “I’m sorry, si- Norman. It's not exactly a normal night for
me. A little overwhelming.” With a gesture, Norman welcomed Peter into the booth, Harry following behind. As they sat down, a waitress appeared almost out of thin air with drinks. Of course, the boys had something non-alcoholic.

“Harry’s told me a lot about you, Peter.” Norman stated in between sips of what was likely a very expensive whisky. “That apparently you're quite the science wizz. You know, I'm something of a scientist myself.” He said with a rather dignified yet smug look. Peter's head was somewhere in the clouds right now. “Oh I know, sir. I follow your work here and there. I’m actually hoping to get an internship at Oscorp in the summer.” Norman raised an eyebrow, curious about what Peter could offer. “Well instead of later, why not now? After all, I do own the company. Give me five minutes and I’ll have you set up.” Peters' eyes snapped open at the offer, knowing that such an early start would help with bills along the way. Bills he had to help pay. “I’m sorry, Norman. I um… I wanna make my own way there.” Even if a little disappointed, Norman was deeply impressed. “That took courage to say no. To chart your own course. Very well then, but I best see your name come up in the summer, you hear me?”

“Of course! Hey, tiny favour. Would you mind if I took a quick shot of you and Harry? Jonah would kill me if I passed up the chance.” The two Osborn men had a small chuckle to themselves. “Of course, Pete. Come on dad, let's look good for the cameras.” Harry stood by his fathers side, the two looking incredibly identical. Peter took his opportunity to snap as many pictures as possible. A raised hand from Norman stopped him. “One second, Peter. Let's give Jameson what he wants. Hey Lex! How about some decent PR for a change!”

EQUESTRIA, NOW

One day and a train ride later, everyone was now in attendance for the Grand Galloping Gala. The girls had been sequestered to a private suite to get ready, while Spike ran some last minute errands. This left Peter with some time to himself, as he figured it wouldn't take as long for him to get ready. With the night drawing in, most of Canterlot was empty, either to call it a day or get ready for tonight's party themselves. In the midst of his wandering, Peter had found himself in the same spot he had once contemplated his future in Equestria. While still not completely sure, he at least knew that being a hero was still part of his future. And perhaps that was enough. “I would ask what you are thinking about. But I suppose I can make some assumptions.” And just like last time, Luna was right there as Peter turned to face her, knowing her voice a lot more now. “It’s hard to think I was such a different person all those months ago. Yet here I am, a new man. Almost.”

“It would seem that much has changed for us both. Last time we spoke in this city, I made an unfair request of you. And yet, with some time, you granted that request in a way. I am grateful to you, Peter. Whatever the next year brings, I foresee we shall both face it together along with our friends.” Peter had seen the Princess of the Moon change much in the months he had lived here, and much of it for the better. True, both of them had butted heads on more than one occasion, but they had managed to resolve things by the end. If anything, Luna might have been the reason Peter wasn't killed by Sombra. Though the young man however, still saw that as his own failure. But tonight wasn't the time for any negatives; it was about new beginnings. “First we gotta get through this swanky party I've heard so much about.” Luna's eyes rolled back, a reaction Peter had never expected from her. “Ah yes. The Gala. An event that allows the finely dressed peacocks of the kingdom to gather around and try to make nice enough with my sister and I’ so that we may marry them.”

Now the events of the night were about to get a lot more interesting, Peter thought to himself. “Wait a second. You two get marriage proposals? I mean… Brave of them to try.” Alluding to the idea that anyone who tried to wed the royal sisters would have to keep up with them to some degree. “You would be surprised Peter. Ever since my return, suitors have lined up without fail. But all they really wish for is some place higher above their current station. It has nothing to do with love or affection. And besides… None of them can fight worth a damn.” Having seen what her older sister is capable of, Peter began to envision what would happen if some spoiled brat tried to take on Luna in single combat. The end result brought out fits of laughter, with Luna sharing in them, having some idea of what Peter was laughing at. “I see you understand my plight!” Their laughter echoed out across the empty streets. “No kidding!” Peter screamed out hysterically. “I'm sorta hoping that happens tonight. It would be hilarious!”

For as much as Luna hated the idea of someone proposing to her tonight, the stipulation of her usual one vs one rules would at least garner some form of entertainment. “Perhaps it shall! But all I ask for tonight is that you have fun. Spend time with your friends. Think of who you intend to be this coming year. And most importantly - think of what you want from your time here, be it long or short.” Luna remarked as she took to the skies and back to the castle, leaving Peter to his thoughts. “What do I want from my time here? Well right now I just wanna hang out and have a good time. I wonder what the girls' dresses look like? Especially Fluttershy’s. I’ll bet she's gonna look…” Peter caught himself mid thought, like he had committed a crime. His anger began to brew at no one but himself. Almost as if he deserved it. But did he? Did he deserve to keep hating himself for something he couldn't change?

With a few deep breaths, his anger faded. Looking up, his eyes fell upon the castle where the Gala would be held. And after a few more deep breaths, he allowed his thought to be complete.

“Beautiful.”

A COUPLE OF HOURS LATER

The throne room was a sight that Peter had seen one too many times under less than cheerful circumstances, a sigh of relief escaping him as he realized that he was here as a guest, not as a prisoner. Many of the guests had already arrived, alongside the orchestra which was currently setting up. A few soft notes rang out as the musicians played around with their instruments to get them in tune. While they set up, the room began to fill even more, but still no sign of the girls. Just before the doors closed, a frantic Spike just made it inside, making a beeline for Peter. “Spike? Where is everyone? They got an attendance cap on this thing?” The young drake was still trying to catch his breath, obviously having to run for his life to make it in time. “Oh yeah… the girls… are gonna… be here shortly.” He said, taking heavy breaths in between words. “But… they're entering with the Princesses. Guest of Honour type thing, ya know. Especially after what happened in Ponyville.”

“Figures.” It made sense of course; all six girls were heroes known throughout Equestria. Plus, much of Equestria was still unaware that Spider-Man even existed. There were rumours for sure, but nothing concrete. So for now at least, Peter felt it was best to just watch from the background. The murmuring crowd was hushed as the doors opened again, a parade of guards marching through as trumpets blared. Behind them were Celestia and Luna, looking incredibly beautiful and majestic. Like a pair of Greek Goddesses brought to life. Many men in the crowd seemed to think so. Next to enter were Cadence, Shining Armour and Flurry Heart, looking adorable all dressed. The ever observant infant spotted Peter in the crowd, but knew she had to stick with her parents for now. Twilight stepped through next, her dress mimicking the lavender tones she was known for. She looked amazing.

Finally, the other girls came through one by one. Dash's look was sleek, a hint of rainbow here and there. Rarity of course had maybe gone a little over the top with hers, but it got much attention. Applejack was the opposite, more simple in places but it was very her. Pinkie's dress had a lot of pizzazz to it. And lastly, who Peter had wanted to see the most, was Fluttershy. What he saw was indescribable. Her dress was mostly green with some yellow highlights. But what stood out was how daring it was. A slit further down allowed her legs to be shown off a fair amount. Something Peter would never have thought she would go for. For a moment, their eyes met, her stare beaming back at his with some embarrassment but also joy, leaving Peter stunned. A claw poking into his ribs got his attention, a rather smug looking Spike looking up at him. “You wanna put your jaw back in place, Peter?”

True enough, Peter's mouth had been agape for a few moments once he saw Fluttershy. “PLEASE tell me no one saw me like that? Well, Fluttershy did… Dammit.” At the front of the proceedings, the guards parted, allowing Celestia and Luna to walk the steps to their thrones. Cadence and Shining took their places further down, while the girls stood at the base of the steps. The crowd fell silent, waiting to hear from their beloved princesses. “Citizens of Equestria!” Celestia announced. “Welcome back once again for the Grand Galloping Gala!” The crowd broke into applause and cheers, but a raised hand from Celestia silenced them back down. It was clear she had much to say.

“This year has been quite a journey for most of us. And I know that many of you have questions in regards to what happened in Ponyville weeks ago. I can confirm that a renegade Unicorn Clanswoman, through use of magic long since forbidden, had summoned dark forces to aid her in causing death and destruction. But as always, the bearers of the Elements of Harmony rallied behind each other to take on the evil that had terrorized us. Myself and Princess Luna, as well as Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armour, assisted in their fight. No one was harmed, but the town of Ponyville was destroyed.” Discussion broke out throughout the hall. So the rumors were true. But if they were correct, then what else had happened? “Princess Celestia!” One guest shouted out. “What about the rumours of a so-called masked hero?”

And there it was: the very question they had all been dreading. Celestia scanned the crowd, their eyes all fixed on her, waiting for an answer. She had a story ready to tell: to keep Spider-Man in the shadows for just a little bit longer. But then her gaze fell on Peter, standing all the way at the back of the crowd. He seemed content, given that none of his own deeds were being spoken of tonight. And yes, she had fought, as had her sister; they all fought. “But he was the only one who bled. After everything we put him through… He bled for us.” Whatever story Celestia had ready to deliver was immediately wiped from her mind. It wasn't the one she wanted to tell. “Indeed. There was another who stood among us. A hero who called himself Spider-Man.” The hushed crowd now became a lot louder as thoughts on this new hero sparked from person - to- person. The girls became nervous, knowing that the very topic of discussion was in the room.

Before the rabble became too hectic, Celestia raised her hand yet again to silence the crowd. “There are only so many questions about him I can answer. He is a mystery to us all right now; his face and name are being kept secret. What is known however, is that he is an individual of great courage. And believe me, you would need much of it to face what we did that day. And Spider-Man faced it alongside us. Even almost paying with his own life to safeguard so many others.” The last few murmurs began to quiet down as Celestia told her story. And Peter could see what she was doing. If he couldn't stand among them, then she would find a way to honour his actions. “While we do not know his true name, we do know that he stands for justice, and seeks to protect those who cannot protect themselves.” Luna spoke, taking her turn to say a few words. “It is because of Spider-Man that my daughter is even alive. We owe him so much.” Announced Cadence, Flurry Heart cradled tightly into her side.

Celestia took over the speech again with a few last words. “There were many heroes that day. One may have chosen not to join us tonight. But I hope that wherever he may be - He knows just how much in debt we all are to him. Because of him, many of us are here to enjoy this celebration tonight. So please, everyone, enjoy yourselves! For a brand new beginning awaits us all!” A roaring round of applause broke out again, this time much louder. Celestia's eyes once again found Peter, nodding a sign of approval which he returned. As the crowd dispersed, Peter made his way up to the front to join the others, Upon spotting him, the girls rushed forward, a group hug forming. “You all looked amazing up there! And your dresses, wow!” Peter cried out, still hopped up on good vibes from Celestia's speech. “Oh we know!” Decreed Rarity. “These gorgeous gals and my sense of fashion? Works of art, dear. And YOU Mr. Parker, well aren't you rather dashing? It seems you look good in just about any suit.”

Now that she had mentioned it, the girls all got a good look at Peter in his own formal wear. And they had to admit, he cleaned up rather nicely. “Shame the stylist couldn't do much about your hair, Peter. You look like you just got out of bed.” Twilight pointed out, trying her best to try and slick back Peter's hair with her magic, only for it to pop back out into place. “I think it suits him, honestly. It makes him look like a handsome spy!” Was what popped out of Fluttershy's mouth, prompting everyone to do a double take at her. The Pegasi, aware of her own words, turned dark red on her cheeks. “Dang Flutters. Between that and the dress choice, it feels like a whole new you!” Commented Dash. Even many of the more upper crust guests had taken notice of just how captivating Fluttershy looked tonight. Though the more they looked, the more self-conscious she began to feel. “I know I look a little… ridiculous.”

“No way, you look beautiful!” The words that had been thought of for so long finally found their way out of Peter's mouth. And in the most crowded space of all to do it in. The girls were stunned to silence, Rarity's face contorting into the biggest smile. A part of Peter wanted to take back what he said, or play dumb on it. But then he remembered what he thought to himself earlier. He was done denying himself a future. “I mean it. You look incredible.” It wasn't said with ill intent, or try and pretend to make anyone feel good. It was words Peter meant every part of. Almost as if to help set the mood, the orchestra began to play, with many of the guests pairing up to dance. It was an opportunity too good to pass up. “What do you say, Flutters? Shall we dance?” In the past, Fluttershy had been slow to make decisions, even outright passing up on activities with friends as she was too scared to say or do anything. “I would love to!” Today was certainly not one of those days.

Peter extended his hand out, Fluttershy grabbing it tightly. Their friends watched on in glee as the two made their way to the dancefloor. Back over at the thrones, Cadence spotted the two, pointing the sight out to Celestia and Luna, their own faces glowing with smiles. “It would appear that Peter has chosen to move forward with his life here. How wonderful to see!” Celestia exclaimed. “Perhaps your speech was enough to give him that last piece of courage, Tia?” Luna wondered out loud. Whatever the reason, the royal sisters looked on with pride as their newest friend began to dance, a rather joyful Flurry Heart letting out a cheer. Fortunately for Peter, he had been to many formal events, so this was easy. Fluttershy on the other hand struggled to find her footing. “I’ve never really danced before. I was always too scared to try.” The two merely circled in place, Fluttershy becoming a little too self-aware of what she was doing. Trying to calm her, Peter pulled her in close.

“Hey. It's just you and me here. Just us, ok?” While their proximity made Fluttershy's cheeks blush like they were on fire, it also made her less aware of the crowd around them. The world became a little bit smaller until it really did feel like it was just the two of them. Even the music started to drown out for her as she rested her head on Peter's chest, the slow and steady drum of his heartbeat the only thing she could hear. For the moment, Peter led the dance on, allowing Fluttershy to find her comfort zone. His arms found their way to her back, holding her close. Holding her safely. His eyes never left her, always making sure she was ok. Then she looked up at him, their faces so close. In the heat of the moment, they only got closer until finally their lips met. The kiss was soft and subtle, appropriate for where they were. Even when it broke, the two couldn't take their eyes off each other. “First kiss of many, I hope?” Peter said slyly.”

“Actually, that was my first kiss in general. It was wonderful. So yes, I’d like some more.” Fluutershy replied with some level of smugness, mixed in with the fact that she had just had her first kiss, dopamine coursing through her. Back at their booth, the rest of the girls watched on in awe as two of their friends had confessed their feelings for each other. In the midst of the spectacle however, some rumblings could be heard from across the room. The girls, too fixated on what was going on, failed to spot the Sirens finally making their appearance at the Gala. And while Aria and Sonata were more reserved in their choice of clothing, Adagio had gone a little more daring, showing off as much as could be considered appropriate for such a gathering. “I see the high society bunch hasn't changed much here. Almost reminds me of when we spent a couple of decades in France.”

“Good thing we left. They had that whole Revolution thing and started killing all the high society types. They would have found us out REAL fast.” Sonata pointed out in her usual to the point tone. The sisters spotted the girls and went to join them, though they were confused as to why their presence seemed to have gone unnoticed. “And here I thought you were all excited to see how we would look! What's gotten all of you so worked up?” As if on command, the girls and Spike all pointed out to the dancefloor, right where Peter and Fluttershy were dancing away, every so often landing soft kisses on each other. “Well now! That IS actually more important than anything else tonight. I see the shy one has come out of her shell. Bravo!” Adagio exclaimed with some level of sarcasm. Beneath it all, she was actually a little proud that Fluttershy had actually taken this big step in her life.

“I just cannot believe it!” Burst out Rarity. “I’ve been telling you all for WEEKS! And look at how adorable they are together!” The music began to slow down, signalling the end of the song. Having had their moment, Peter and Fluttershy began to make their way back to their friends, the two being surrounded in a group hug as soon as they made their way off the dance floor. “Well, when Rarity's right, she's right.” Said Twilight, prompting a smug smile from the fashionista. “Took your sweet time about, both of ya!” Commented Dash, earning an elbow in the ribs from Applejack. It was only after the high calmed down that everyone started to acknowledge that the Sirens had arrived. And what they were wearing. “My, my Adagio. You certainly know how to grasp an audience.” Rarity pointed out, made more poignant by the many men looking in the eldest Siren’s direction.

“I tend to live by the philosophy that if you've got it, flaunt it. Much like Fluttershy over here!” The past few moments had made Fluttershy almost forget that her dress was a little revealing, her cheeks turning red again. She leaned into Peter, his heartbeat once again being a comforting sound. Adagio, letting her guard down for a bit, changed her tone. “But I must say that you two genuinely look adorable together. But Peter, next time please do something about your hair. This is a FORMAL event.” A few laughs broke out as Peter demonstrated that his hair was not so easily manageable, which turned into some conversation about everyone's dresses. It was then that a familiar tingling sensation worked its way up Peter's neck and into his head. “Of all the nights! Ok Spider-Sense, what have you got for me?”

Across the way, Celestia and Luna also perked up, their own magical senses going crazy. “It couldn't be, could it?” Celestia pondered. Peter, now partially a slave to his senses, walked away from the group towards the main door, Fluttershy following close behind. “Peter? Is everything ok?” Instinctively, Peter kept her behind him on the off chance something dangerous was coming. But something was… off. “I don't know. Doesn't feel like the other times. I can sense something coming but… I can't tell if it's dangerous or not.” While Peter's own senses couldn't deduce the incoming threat, the royal sisters had more of an idea.
“You did not invite him, did you sister?” Luna said accusingly.
“I… Might have. I just never thought he would come. Or if he even got the invitation. He's difficult to find when he wants to be.” The doors to the throne room burst open, catching the other guests by surprise.

Peters Spider-Sense felt like it had dialed up a few levels, now putting him into almost fighting mode. A pair of hands wrapping around him brought him quickly out of that mindset. “He won't hurt anyone. Please don't fight.” Flutterhsy pleaded. “He's a friend. Just… more unusual than the girls.” The guards at the door drew their weapons, only to find them turned into animal balloons. A nervous Fluttershy held Peter's hand. “I guess it was only a matter of time before you met Discord.”

“Salutations everyone! Now the party can REALLY begin.”

Author's Note

ANOTHER upload this month? Why yes indeed. And what an episode its been. Stayed tune for the follow up!