Star Spark awoke to the harsh buzzing of his alarm clock, blindly smacking at his nightstand until he found the snooze button. He settled back into bed, the warm allure of sleep tempting him. His eyes were just starting to drift back shut when a loud voice startled him.
“Star Spark, breakfast in ten!” Solid Strike called down the hall. “It’ll be my second helping if you’re not at the table by then.”
It was an idle threat, but sleeping in wasn’t a luxury today. He groaned, and before he could be tempted again he kicked off the covers and grasped his curtains with magic, yanking them open and wincing as the sunlight flooded the bedroom. He squinted, letting his eyes adjust before turning to his bedside table and scooping up a necklace. As soon as he slung it around his neck the black quartz on the end turned blue, emitting a tiny amount of light and heat.
Through the window he saw pegasi clearing away the clouds, making the weather perfect for the day ahead. He watched them for a few seconds before pulling himself out of bed, adjusting the pillows just right before pulling the covers over them. Satisfied that his bed was neatly made- or neat enough- he ducked into the bathroom.
Stepping into the shower he turned the valve, yelping as cold water cascaded over him. Any remnants of sleepiness were shocked out of him as he scrambled away from the freezing stream, his hooves nearly slipping on the fiberglass tub. He shivered as he waited for it to warm up, the icy water soaking into his fur and sapping his body heat. Reaching out a hoof he felt the water starting to go from cold to lukewarm. Star Spark groaned impatiently as he mentally pleaded for it to hurry up.
As he did a wondrous scent began to waft its way to him. He sniffed the air, and his annoyance gave way to an anticipating grin. It was pancakes, and if he knew his dad they’d have chocolate chips and loads of syrup, too! His mouth watered and suddenly lukewarm water didn’t seem too bad.
Solid Strike hummed as he set the table, his ears perking up at the sound of his son’s hoofsteps before he came into the kitchen.
“There you are, sleepyhead. Eat up, we’ve got a big day ahead.” he gently smiled, setting a plate full of pancakes on the table for them to share, levitating a few onto his own. “And please try not to get anything on your fur. We don’t have time to clean up again before the wedding.”
“I’ll do my best,” he promised, beginning to dig into his breakfast.
“Remember what we rehearsed?” Solid asked, taking a bite of his food. He suppressed a chuckle seeing his son’s face light up at the first bite.
“Yeah. The Flower Fillies go first, then the bride and groom get up on the altar. Princess Celestia will say a few words, and then I walk up the aisle carrying a pillow with the wedding rings. The bride and groom take them, and then I go off to the side and stand next to you.”
“Good boy.”
“Yeah, it’s gonna be so awesome!” He practically jittered with excitement.
"It will,” Solid grinned, anticipating the days ahead. "but it’s not just Shining and Cadance who have a reason to celebrate, so do we. In fact, we have two. The first is that after the wedding you and I will have the entire weekend together, just you and me.”
He chuckled, seeing his son was now practically vibrating. “Careful, son, or you’ll cause an earthquake at the next bit of news.” He waited for him to calm down, beginning to grin from ear to ear. "For my continued dedication and service to the Royal Guard of Equestria, and my contributions to the security plans of the royal wedding, I have been promoted to lieutenant. It comes with a pay increase, but more importantly, it has a much more flexible schedule. I’ll be handling administrative matters and training young recruits now, and because of that you and I are going to get to spend much more time together from now on.”
What happened next was too fast for the eye to perceive, but one moment Star Spark was sitting in his chair with a look of joy and awe on his face, the next he was running into his father’s side with enough force to nearly topple him as he wrapped him in a bear hug.
“You're getting stronger every day, you know that? Pretty soon you’re going to have to be careful not to hurt your old man.” he returned the hug, giving his son a quick kiss on the head. “After breakfast, we both need to get dressed. It won’t do to have one of the groomsmen and the ring-bearer be late.”
As soon as their plates were empty and in the sink, both of them went back to their rooms to get dressed. Star Spark pulled his outfit out of the closet and took it out of the dust cover, grinning at the suit inside. First was the gray undershirt which showed vividly against the colt’s pure white fur. Next, a pair of navy-blue pants and a black belt that matched his mane and tail.
Star Spark grabbed a golden tie, admiring the color before draping it around his neck. He fiddled with the tie, biting his lip in concentration. Across, over, under, loop, snag you own hoof? No, that wasn’t right. Across, under, over, pull? No. Across, across, across? No. He focused and lit his horn trying to thread it, but he grunted at the horrid knot it made instead.
Suddenly the tie was firmly grabbed by another magic aura, and he looked to see his dad standing in the doorway, wearing a crimson-red royal guard dress uniform.
“Need some help, kiddo?” Solid didn’t wait for an answer before focusing on the tie. Star Spark watched it weave around, seeing just how far off he’d been. It crossed over, wrapped around, pulled through, wrap, wrap, pull, wrap, and with a final pull it was fastened with a gentle pressure around his neck. “Looking handsome, but there’s one last touch.”
He saw his suit coat being floated over to him, raising his forelegs as his father deftly slipped it over him and buttoned it up. “There, perfect, see for yourself.”
Star Spark looked at his reflection, and a big grin immediately stretched across his face. The blue pants and suit coat perfectly contrasted his fur, highlighted his mane and tail, and the undershirt matched the muzzle stripe on his face. The tie was a perfect match for his eyes. He couldn’t help but admire himself in the mirror, enjoying the sight it returned as all the details of his appearance seemed to immaculately compliment each other.
“You’re as handsome as anypony at the wedding will be,” Solid commented with an approving smile. “If they didn’t know better they’d think you were a noble or a prince.”
That got another grin out of him as he pictured himself with a crown on his head. “Prince Star Spark, it does have a nice ring to it, don’t you think, dad?”
Solid chuckled, gently ruffling his son’s mane. “Oh yes, I think it sounds perfect for you. In fact, your royal escort is ready to take the handsome prince to the castle.” He looked at the state of his son’s mane and chuckled again, though much more nervously now as he floated over a comb. “Right after I fix your mane.”
Author's Note
Hello lovelies, long time no see! This is a complete reboot for my oc Star Spark. I don't like how his first story turned out, so this is going to be a complete retelling! Hope you enjoy!
The weather was every bit as perfect as it looked. It was comfortably warm, with not a cloud in the sky as the father/son duo approached the castle.
“When we get inside, stick close to me, kiddo. Canterlot Castle is a big place and it's easy to get lost if you don’t know where you’re going.”
Star Spark rolled his eyes, suppressing the urge to sigh. “I’ve been in the castle before, dad.”
“Don’t you roll your eyes at me, it’s still true.” Solid chided, though his demeanor quickly softened. “I’ll give you the rings when I drop you off. They’ll be magically bound to the case so you won’t need to worry about them falling out, but don’t let it out of your sight."
As they entered Star Spark’s attention turned toward the rich decor all around him. From the intricate stained glass windows to the pristine marble floors to the numerous ornamental vases and sconces, it was always a sight to see. No matter how many times he saw the inside of the castle, its splendor never failed to impress him.
"Lieutenant Solid Strike.” A pegasus approached them and gave a salute, which Solid immediately mirrored. "Captain Shining Armor has asked to speak with you in his office, there’s been a last-minute change that he wants to discuss with you.”
“Understood, Corporal Cobalt. Do you know what it’s about?”
Cobalt shook his head. “No, sir, but I’d bet my wings it’s about the wedding. It’s the only thing on his mind right now.”
“That makes sense.” Solid looked from Cobalt to Star Spark before looking back. “Tell Shining Armor I’ll be there as soon as I drop my son off at the chapel.”
“Understood.” Cobalt flashed Star Spark a warm smile before he turned and trotted off.
“Hey dad, why does Shining want to see you? Are you in trouble?”
Solid thought for a moment before shaking his head. “I doubt it. Like Cobalt said, it’s probably about the wedding.” He sighed, shaking his head. “I told them they should’ve postponed the wedding until Canterlot didn’t have a security threat hanging over it, but Princess Cadance insisted it happen today.” He sighed, “Change of plans. I’ll drop you off, see Shining, and be back to give you the rings after he sees them, ok?”
“Ok, dad.”
With a gentle nudge from Solid the two set off again in relative silence. As they approached the chapel Star Spark could see three fillies talking amongst themselves. He could see each was a different race, and even from a distance, he thought their dresses were cute. A heat rushed into his cheeks and he cursed his snowy fur for exposing his blush so completely.
Solid seemed to notice his son’s anxiety, flashing him a reassuring smile. “You’ll be fine, kiddo. Just be kind, be yourself, and go make some friends. I’ll be back right after I visit Shining Armor.”
As soon as he walked off, Star Spark looked at the three fillies, who by now were looking back at him. He took a deep breath before he started heading over, quickly making sure his tie and mane were presentable. Oh, why did his fur have to be white?!
“Relax, you look like you’re about to burst into flames.” The pegasus said.
“Yeah, we won’t bite, promise!” The unicorn added.
Now it was the earth pony’s turn to speak. “How’s about we introduce ourselves? Ah’m Apple Bloom, that’s Sweetie Belle, and that’s Scootaloo.”
“Star Spark.” He rubbed the back of his head, the ensuant silence threatening to become awkward if someone didn’t talk. “I like your dresses, they’re really cute!”
That got a smile out of Sweetie Belle. “My sister made them, she said they highlight all our best features.”
“That’s nothing,” Apple Bloom smirked.” Mah sister baked most of the desserts for the reception.” Apple Bloom smiled proudly.
“Oh yeah?” Scootaloo grinned deviously as she glanced at her friends. “Well Rainbow Dash is going to perform a Sonic Rainboom as soon as they say ‘I do’!”
“My dad made the rings for the bride and groom.” Star Spark added, feeling the tension slowly leave his body as his blush faded.
Solid leaned back and took a sip of the tea he’d been served. Shining Armor’s office was much less regal than the rest of the castle, opting for a more cozy atmosphere instead. He glanced out the window and took in the view of the gardens below before turning back to his captain.
“I’m honored, Shining, but what about your sister? I thought Twilight Sparkle was supposed to be your Best Mare.”
Shining sighed, rubbing his forehead as he dumped two lumps of sugar into his drink. “She was, and I really wanted her to be, but she called Cadance evil! She wouldn’t listen to reason, and if I didn’t do something she was going to mess up the whole wedding. She left me no choice.” He sighed, glancing at a picture of her on his desk. “I’ll forgive her eventually, but I don’t have time for her right now.”
Solid frowned, watching the pained look on Shining’s face as he levitated a spoon into his drink. “I know you’re not going to like me repeating this, but have you considered postponing the wedding until Equestria isn’t in possible danger and you don’t need to maintain such a taxing spell?”
“I can’t without upsetting most of Canterlot. It’s almost time for the ceremony. All our guests are here, all the baking and prep work are done, and it’d cost a lot of money to call it off now.”
Solid sighed, but he could hardly blame Shining’s reluctance. “I know how you feel, I really do, it’s the same as when I got married. You’re excited, you’re stressed out, and you’re about to start a new chapter with the mare of your dreams. But look at this through a guard captain’s eyes: this is a perfect opportunity to get at any member of the royal family, even the princesses themselves.”
“I mean this in the nicest possible way, but it’s not like your wedding. This is the social event of the year, and if it doesn’t happen today somepony’s head is going to roll, probably mine.” While he spoke, Shining tried to levitate his cup but suddenly a bolt of pain dug into his head and his magic fizzled. Moments before the teacup hit the desk it was caught in Solid’s magic and safely set back on its saucer.
“See what I mean? If something happens you aren’t in any condition to stop it.”
“That’s a big part of why I want you up on that altar with me, I want you watching our backs if anything happens. I need somepony I can count on. Can you be that somepony?”
“You even have to ask, Shining? Of course I will.”
As soon as he finished Shining slumped back into his chair, rubbing his temples as his migraine intensified, like a vice was squeezing his brain.
“I’ll do what I can, starting with helping you with your headache. I’m not an expert but raising Star Spark has given me plenty of practice with the first aid spell.” A blue aura surrounded his horn as he focused it toward his friend.
Shining Armor groaned as he felt a warm tingle in his head. The pressure was beginning to slowly subside, and he allowed himself to sink deeper into his chair as relief flooded through him.
As soon as the magic was released Shining doubled over clutching his head, sucking air through his clenched teeth as the pressure around his brain was cranked down harder than ever. “What did you do?!”
Solid’s eyes widened in surprise. “I don’t know, that’s never happened before. Hold on, let me try again-”
“NO!” Shining forcibly barked. A tense silence filled the room as he looked up, wincing as an aching throb pounded in his head. He looked up to see Solid giving him a disapproving look. “I’m sorry. I’m under a lot of stress, juggling a lot of things, and now I’ve got the drama from my sister and you thinking this wedding is a bad idea. It’s a lot all at once.”
“This is exactly what I’m talking about. As your lieutenant and more importantly as your friend I’m begging you, postpone the wedding until things settle down. If your fiancée really loves you, she’ll understand.”
Before Shining could respond, a feminine cut in. “You worry too much.”
Solid turned toward the source of the new voice, seeing Princess Cadance entering the room. His eyes caught a fleeting glimpse of green magic on the doorknob before it dissipated.
“This wedding will be happening today. Now, do you have the rings?”
Solid reached into his uniform, pulling out a small, stainless steel case. “Hot out of the forge. I admit I’m more used to working with steel than gold, but I think they turned out pretty well.”
“I’ll be the judge of that.” Cadance snatched the case out of his hoof and flipping it open. Inside were two pristine golden rings, one set with a blue gemstone and the other one in pink.
“They’re both sapphires, just different colors. So, how do you judge them?” Going off her smile, Solid had a good guess, he just wished it wasn’t so… toothy.
“Acceptable.” Cadance snapped the case closed and tossed it back to him as Solid caught it in his magic. “I think you should be going, though. My poor Shining Armor needs some relief from his terrible migraines.”
Solid slowly stood up and walked toward the door, a sense of unease filling him as he stared at Cadance’s smile. The first word that came to mind for it was predatory.
That smile quickly melted into a glare. “Why are you still here?” Solid felt himself roughly gripped in an aura of green magic and shoved out the door, a slam resounding as it was yanked shut.
He looked back towards the door, seeing a green light coming through the keyhole. He approached and put an eye up to it seeing the princess casting a bolt of sickly green magic on Shining that made his eyes seem to go wide and unfocused. A knot formed in Solid’s gut, telling him that it wasn't for headaches.
