A Not-So-Royal Las Pegasus Wedding

Chapters

Pre-Wedding Anxiety
Decorating
Gathering for the Rehearsal Dinner
Food Fight!
The Rehearsal
The Wedding
The Reception

Pre-Wedding Anxiety

To Starlight Glimmer, at that moment, she was looking at the most handsome stallion in Equestria. Not even the splendor of Las Pegasus’ finest chapel could distract her love.

Sunburst stood at the altar in a tuxedo, his beard trimmed and his orange mane slicked back and well-groomed. A welcoming smile called his bride.

Starlight’s face went red-hot. Her heart pounded so hard she figured Firelight could feel it thumping as he escorted her down the aisle.

“I’m so proud of you, pumpkin,” Firelight whispered into her ear. Starlight didn’t look at him, but knew he had tears in his eyes. “You’re all grown up but know that I’ll always love you.”

“I love you, too, Dad,” Starlight whispered back.

The walk down the aisle seemed forever, but Starlight somehow kept her composure long enough to find herself face-to-face with Sunburst, swimming in the aqua blue of his eyes. She cast an aside glance at Firelight and saw him wipe his face as he took his seat. Her dad really was crying, just like she knew the softie would.

Princess Twilight Sparkle stood at the podium, beaming with pride at how far her student had come before she addressed the crowd. “Welcome, everypony! You may all be seated.”

The select contingent of well-dressed ponies obeyed, along with the students from Twilight's school, as Twilight paused to recapture everypony's attention.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the joining of Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst in sacred marriage. Their love for each other is clear and we affirm this is a union entered into with due consider and forethought. Therefore, without objection, we will continue…”

The room remained silent except for the thumping of Starlight’s heart.

“Today is a very special day, not only for my best student but for myself. There can be no greater satisfaction than watching a pony with such potential grow into the mare she's become. Now she has the stallion of her heart to walk this wonderful path by her side. And so, without further ado, I ask that you two hold each other’s hooves.”

They did so, gazing lovingly and longingly into each other’s eyes.

“Starlight Glimmer, do you take Sunburst to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold and to cherish, through both happiness and strife, and both sickness and health, as long as you both shall live?”

She felt the joy of each syllable. “I do.”

“And do you, Sunburst, take Starlight Glimmer to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold and to cherish, through both happiness and strife, and both sickness and health, as long as you both shall live?”

“I do,” Sunburst said. The look of love on his face transformed into a vicious sneer. “Not!”

Starlight’s heart had been ready to explode in exultation but instead she did a double-take. “Wait, what?”

Before Starlight had time to process Sunburst’s answer, a green flame wreathed him, and he transformed into a tall, dark, insect-like creature whose body was riddled with holes.

“Chrysalis!” Starlight shouted. She lowered her stance, ready to fight. “What have you done with Sunburst?”

Chrysalis turned her face towards the ceiling and cackled. “Oh, you needn’t worry about your little Sunbug. I’ve already drained every last ounce of love from him! I told you, there is no revenge you could possibly conceive compared to that I would exact upon you, Starlight Glimmer! I’ve waited too long for this. This is my ultimate vengeance!”

All at once, the serenity of the procession erupted into chaos. Some of the ponies, even Twilight herself, turned into Changelings. Others screamed and galloped out of the wedding chapel, leaving a few behind to fight. Magic beams darted back and forth, sending a chair flying through the air as bodies slammed into the pews, snapping them in half with cracks of splintering wood.

And Chrysalis stood at the center of it all, laughing with insane glee at the carnage.

It was all too much to bear. Starlight went prone and covered the top of her head with her hooves, tears streaming down her face. In a matter of moments, what should have been the happiest day of her life had become a nightmare. The only thing Starlight had the frame of mind to do was to scream.

“Nooooooooooo!”

***

“-Oooooooo!” Starlight snapped upright, panting in a cold sweat. For a moment, she tried to make sense of what had just happened. Only when Sunburst’s hoof touched her shoulder did she understand. She was sitting in their bed, in the darkness of their room at the Ponylaggio in Las Pegasus.

“Starlight, what’s wrong?” Sunburst whispered.

Thank Celestia, it was a dream. Starlight latched onto him. “Oh Sunburst, I just had the worst nightmare! We were at our wedding, and Chrysalis, she was you-”

“Starlight…”

“I mean, you were her, and Twilight and the other ponies were all Changelings and–”

Sunburst pulled her closer. “Starlight! It was just a dream.”

“I know, but it felt so real!” Starlight rested her head on his chest; that always calmed her down. “I guess I’m still afraid of losing you. I don’t want anything to ruin our wedding.”

Sunburst hugged her tighter and stroked her mane, his voice reassuring. “Come on. You know Chrysalis was turned to stone. The rehearsal dinner’s tonight and the wedding’s tomorrow. You’re excited. It’s just nerves.”

“Nerves, right,” Starlight sighed and let out an anxious giggle. “I’m still working on that after all these years.”

“The wedding’s going to be perfect, I promise.”

She closed her eyes, listening to Sunburst’s heartbeat and felt his chest rising and sinking with each breath. In an instant, she was at peace. “I love you so much, Sunburst.”

“I love you, too, my beautiful bride-to-be,” Sunburst answered. Starlight didn’t respond. She’d already drifted back asleep using his chest as a pillow.

Decorating

Rarity hummed to herself as she threaded a long, white silk ribbon across the wooden rafters of the ceiling of the Ponylaggio’s Chapel of Love, taking pride in the fact that Starlight put her in charge of the decorations. After all, only her refined sense of fabulosity would suffice for such a grand occasion!

The sound of approaching hoofsteps caught Rarity’s attention. Pinkie Pie skipped into the chapel, smiling as always.

“I brought you balloons like you asked, Rarity!”

“Thank you, dar-Wa-ha-haaa!” Rarity’s eyes widened and her jaw dropped as Pinkie pranced up, holding a large cluster of balloons in every color of the rainbow with no white to be found whatsoever.

“Pinkie, this is not a birthday party. This is a wedding!”

“Indeedily! That’s why I brought extra!”

“Those are an eyesore! When you decorate for a wedding, you must strictly abide by the bride and groom’s desired color scheme. Two or three– at most, four– soft colors that don’t clash. They’ve requested the traditional white, lavender for Starlight and-”

Pinkie Pie, having let go of the balloons, dunked her head into Rarity’s box of decorations and came back up with a tangerine streamer draped across her nose. “Orange for Sunburst?”

“Actually, Pinkie, that shade is called tangerine.”

Cocking her head, Pinkie held the streamer in front of her face. “Looks like plain old orange to me. Ooh! I’m gonna call it ‘tangerorange!”

A sudden loud pop rang in Rarity’s ears. She looked up and saw that Pinkie’s balloons had come to rest at the ceiling and one of them had burst upon touching it. Rarity cleared her throat and pointed upward.

“Oops,” Pinkie offered.

Rarity sighed to compose herself and smiled as she grabbed the balloons with her magic. “Pinkie, dearest, will you please remove this garish rainbow of balloons from the room? They’re breaking my focus.”

“Did somepony say my name?” Rainbow Dash asked as she flew into the chapel.

“Oh. Greetings, Rainbow Dash,” Rarity said.

“Hiya, Dashie!”

“Hey, Rarity. Pinkie.” Rainbow paused to look around the room. “Um, Rarity, these aren’t all the colors you’re going to use, are they? I mean, there’s no rainbow and not enough dash.”

“Oh, not you, too…” Rarity mumbled. “If you two are here simply to criticize my artistic sense, you might as well–”

A sound like chirping birds interrupted Rarity in mid-sentence. She looked to the main door and saw that’s precisely what it was: Fluttershy had arrived with a full choir of her feathered friends.

Rarity gritted her teeth and swallowed the growing frustration, replacing it with a smile. “Fluttershy, darling, do you really think it’s appropriate to have birds in a wedding chapel?”

A cardinal came to rest on Fluttershy’s hoof and tweeted. “Starlight asked me to have these sweethearts provide music for the wedding. Don’t worry, you’ll hardly even notice them.”

“Wedding music must be played on a piano or organ, not chirped out by birds. I can’t have them getting their dirty feathers all over the decorations.”

A note of worried protest entered Fluttershy's voice. “But… Starlight requested them! And they’re not dirty, Rarity. I made sure they all had baths this morning.”

“Very well,” Rarity sighed. “I do trust your judgment, and I respect Starlight’s decision, but if they get any bird droppings on my wedding dress—”

“That’s not your dress,” Rainbow said.

“I designed it!”

Pinkie edged up to Rarity. “Um, do you remember the time we went to Appleloosa and the buffalo and ponies were going to fight and I sang a song?”

Rarity's eyes grew wide. “You wouldn't!”

“Will if you don't apologize and play nice!” Pinkie replied, half singing that last word.

Rarity sighed. “Very well. Apologies all around.”

Pinkie closed her eyes and smiled. “And Rainbow's right, it's not your wedding, it’s Starlight’s! Speaking of which, I should probably get started on the cake.”

“You mean you haven’t even begun?!” Rarity asked. Though she was talking to Pinkie Pie. That inscrutable pony could probably finish a wedding cake in less than an hour.

The doors flew open, pulling Rarity’s attention away from Pinkie Pie and to Sunburst charging into the room, a look of alarm on his face. “Red alert! Red alert! My mother’s on her way to check out the chapel. Right now!”

Rarity smiled. There were few things as endearing as the bond between mother and son. “Oh, that’s splendid news. I’ll be delighted to meet her.”

“You don’t understand. My mom is the nitpickiest pony I know. She’ll criticize everything you do! Fluttershy, hide those birds! She'll say they’re dirty!”

Fluttershy nodded, sending a satisfied glance Rarity's way as she ordered them out of view into the rafters.

It wouldn’t be the first time Rarity had her work critiqued, and she knew it wouldn’t be the last. It was part of being an artist. “Well, mothers are like that, darling. Don’t worry, I have everything well in hoof.”

An auburn, middle-aged unicorn mare appeared and took a moment to look around the chapel before letting out a disappointed sigh. “You see, Sunburst? This is why I told you not to put somepony else in charge of the decorations. They’re not even half-finished yet. And white is so old-fashioned.” She reached out with her magic and tore down one of the white ribbons Rarity had threaded across the ceiling. A feather from one of Fluttershy’s blue jays floated down with it, which Sunburst’s mother eyed with an expression of disgust. “And look, a filthy feather. They don’t even keep this chapel clean of birds. Not that I’d expect any better from Las Pegasus.”

“I beg your pardon, madam!” Rarity said, anger welling in her chest as she looked Sunburst’s mother in the eyes. “I am the one in charge of decorations. Who are you to barge in here and belittle and destroy my hard work, and without even properly introducing yourself?”

“Oh, you must be Rarity. I’m Stellar Flare. Pleasure to meet you, and I appreciate the effort, but what this really needs is a mother’s touch. Sunburst, dear, do you have everything planned out for tomorrow?”

“Mom,” Sunburst butted in, “please don’t start already. Starlight and I have everything under control.”

“That doesn’t mean your mother can’t help,” Stellar Flare said, pushing Rarity away. “Step aside, dear. I say instead of boring old white, why not something more contemporary? I’m thinking… sparkling gold.”

Rarity felt her cheeks flare and she grunted her frustration as she stepped back in front of Stellar. “I'll have you know I've overseen Princess Cadence's wedding in Canterlot and have the full confidence of Princess Celestia. Now pardon me, but you’re being quite rude. Starlight and Sunburst trusted me with the decor, and I’ll not have my work insulted by the likes of you!”

Stellar scowled and went nose-to-nose with Rarity. “Now see here, I want my Sunburst to have a wedding worthy of the smart, successful, hardworking stallion he is! All I’m doing is offering my opinion.”

Rarity matched Stellar’s glare. “What you are doing is marching in here, giving orders and impeding my work. At this rate, I’ll never have the chapel decorated!”

“With your aesthetic sense, it might as well not be!”

The insult jarred Rarity and she gasped, pulling her head back. “Wh-wh-what?! Now you listen here; I don’t care if you are the mother of the groom. If you want flash and flair, go decorate for a fashion show or the circus!”

With a gasp of her own, Stellar Flare turned her back to Rarity, holding her nose high in indignation. “Well, I never! If that’s the way it’s going to be, then let’s let Sunburst decide. Your choice, sweetie: Your mother or some stuffed-up prima-donna?”

Another backfire welled up in Rarity’s throat. She decided to hold it in long enough for Sunburst to choose.

Sunburst sighed his exasperation. “Mom, Rarity knows what she’s doing; Starlight and I trust her. And we don’t want a flashy, bombastic wedding, just something small and simple.”

Rarity allowed the insult to come out as a sigh of relief and she puffed out her chest in superiority. Sunburst picking her side was victory enough.

“Well, you can cross ‘break mother’s heart’ off of your to-do list,” Stellar Flare sighed. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going back to my room. I’ll need a hot bath before tonight’s rehearsal dinner.” With that, she stepped out of the chapel, nose in the air.

“Thank you, Sunburst,” Rarity said. “What nerve…”

“Yeah!” Rainbow butted in. “Who does that old crone think she is?!”

“That ‘old crone’ is my mom,” Sunburst flatly reminded her.

Rainbow offered Sunburst an awkward smile, knowing she may have crossed a line. “Hey, sorry.”

“Not totally unwarranted,” Sunburst answered. He turned for the main doors. “Rehearsal dinner’s in one hour, at the Tartarus’ Kitchen restaurant. Starlight's already there, I'm going to meet up with her. Don't be late!”

Rarity allowed herself a breath of relief when Sunburst left. “Well, if I could be allowed to work without any more—”

“Is there a Miss Rarity in here?” came a male voice that Rarity didn’t recognize.

“What now?!” Rarity shouted, her voice a mix of a hiss and scream.

A delivery stallion walked up to the altar pulling a small cart stacked with boxes. “Just here to deliver the party favors that the bride and groom ordered, ma’am.”

Rarity sighed, her expression softening as the stallion unhitched his cart. “I apologize for snapping at you. Thank you, darling. You’re a peach.”

The delivery pony’s cheeks reddened as he scratched the back of his head. Without another word, he trotted out of the chapel.

“He’s not a peach, silly, he’s a pony!” Pinkie said. “This is a peach!”

Pinkie grabbed a fresh peach from her mane, stuffed the whole fruit into her mouth, and swallowed it in one gulp. “Mmm, yummy!”

Rarity didn’t bother asking where or how Pinkie got that peach; she’d decided years ago when it came to her pink friend, she was better off not knowing.

“Pinkie, darling,” Rarity huffed, “don’t you have a cake to bake?”

Pinkie drew a gasp with such force that it suspended her in midair. In a pink blur she vanished from the chapel.

Rarity took another deep breath of relief. “Finally, some peace and—”

Birds began chirping harmoniously as Fluttershy led them in practice for the wedding. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash, through her vigorous flapping, somehow managed to snag one of the white ribbons on a loose nail sticking from the ceiling’s wooden beams.

The sound ripping fabric pierced the air as Rainbow tried to pry the ribbon loose. Rarity’s eye twitched as she watched the same ribbon flutter to the ground in two separate pieces.

Take a deep breath now, Rarity. They’re your friends. They mean no harm, but these distractions just won’t do!

Rarity cleared her throat and regarded them with a smile. “Fluttershy, Rainbow, you know you are both so very dear to me, so please don’t take what I’m about to say personally.”

Their faces both silently asked the same question.

“Out, out, out!” Rarity jumped between each word. “Everypony out!”

Fluttershy’s birds followed as she and Rainbow Dash flew out of the cathedral. Rarity glanced around to be sure she was alone and picked up the white streamer Stellar Flare had torn down.

“Okay, Rarity. Let’s make this chapel look fabulous!”

Gathering for the Rehearsal Dinner

Starlight and Sunburst had the entire Tartarus’ Kitchen restaurant, located inside the Ponylaggio, reserved for the rehearsal dinner. Thus it was a convenient location for all of the wedding guests who were staying at the hotel. The chefs had already begun their work when Starlight poked her head into the kitchen to check.

A unicorn stallion with a sandy blond mane smiled at Starlight and stepped up to greet her. “Ah, if it isn’t the bride-to-be. It’s a pleasure to meet you, miss,” he said in a Trottingham accent, offering Starlight his hoof in greeting. “I’m the head chef, Flamin’ Yawn. How can I serve you?”

Starlight grabbed his hoof, and he shook it gently. “Oh, I don’t need anything. I’m just checking on the buffet for tonight’s rehearsal dinner.”

“Don’t worry about a thing, miss. We’ve got everything under control.”

A loud crash came from the kitchen, and the chef winced as he turned at the noise. Somepony had knocked over a utility cart, spilling various kitchen tools all over the floor. Flamin’ Yawn’s quiet tone erupted into sudden shouting. “Bain Marie! How many times do I have to flipping tell you? Watch what you’re doing! Now we have to wash every one of those because they’ve touched the flipping floor! And Beurre Blanc, that’s way too much flipping vinegar, you idiot! The acid is going to dissolve the food before the dinner even starts! What is wrong with you ponies?! Is this a kitchen or a flipping circus, because you’re all clowns!”

“Yes, Chef!” the entire kitchen shouted in unison.

Starlight listened to the outburst in shock. When Flamin’ Yawn finished his tirade, she spoke her mind. “Okay, I’m glad you’re not MY boss. Seems more like a boot camp than a kitchen.”

“It’s a cutthroat business, miss. These are all young hopefuls, and if they can’t learn to work under intense pressure, they’ll never make it as professional chefs.” Flamin’ Yawn snapped around to the kitchen, keeping a close eye on the rookies.

At that moment, Sunburst stepped in and gave Starlight a kiss on the lips. He rubbed her cheek and gazed into her eyes. Starlight still couldn’t believe that by this time tomorrow, she’d be his wife.

“How’s the dinner coming, my beautiful bride?”

“Hey, Julienne, I’ve seen snails cut vegetables faster than that! Move your flank, you stupid donkey!”

“On it, Chef!”

“About like that,” Starlight replied, rolling her eyes.

“Okay, that was a little harsh, wasn’t it?” Sunburst asked. “Everypony makes mistakes. No need for name-calling.” He craned his head further in and saw that Julienne was, in fact, a literal donkey. There were even a couple of griffon chefs hard at work. Las Pegasus really was a melting pot of creatures and cultures.

“Normally, I’d advise you not to tell me how to do my job, but you are the newlyweds and this is ultimately your rehearsal dinner. Just understand that it’s my reputation on the line and I’d like it to be a memorable occasion for you. Oh, pardon me one moment. Grillin! Come here, you!”

One of the two griffins stopped what he was doing and approached Flamin’ Yawn. “Yes, Chef?”

“‘Yes, Chef’,” Flamin’ Yawn mocked, his face now flaring with anger. “What do I have to do to get it through your thick skull? Wear a net! You’re getting your dirty feathers in the salad, you nincompoop. We’re going to have to toss it out now!”

“Sorry, Chef.”

“Don’t apologize, just put on a flipping net. It’s not that difficult! Now chop chop, birdbrain. Back to work.”

“Yes, Chef.”

Starlight let out a nervous chuckle and silently hoped nopony would find griffon feathers in their food.

It’s fine. Everything will be fine. Totally fine. I hope…

Sunburst wrapped his foreleg around the back of Starlight’s neck, pulling her from her thoughts.

“Hey, stop stressing. Everything’s going to be perfect. Flamin’ Yawn is one of the most respected chefs in Equestria.”

Starlight allowed Sunburst’s words to calm her as he guided her into the dining area. In the time they’d been together, he’d learned to read her like a book and always seemed to know when she was nervous or upset, no matter how hard she tried to hide it.

The restaurant door opened and Trixie entered, followed by Maud Pie, Applejack and Sunset Shimmer.

Sunburst smiled at them. “Look, hun, your bridesmares are here.”

“Mare of honor, thank you very much,” Trixie said, putting a hoof to her chest in pride. “It’s an honor bestowed upon only the greatest and most powerful friend!”

Starlight beamed at the new arrivals and wrapped her front legs around Trixie. “Trixie! I’m so glad to see you! You, too, Maud. Applejack, Sunset.” Starlight hugged each of them. “It means so much to me that you’re all here.”

“Aw, shucks. I wouldn’t miss it, sugarcube,” Applejack said. “I’m right tickled that you made me one of your bridesmares.”

“Likewise,” Maud said. “Boulder and I are so happy for you.” Though Maud’s face and voice didn’t show it, Starlight knew her well enough to know that the remark was genuine.

“I wouldn’t miss my little brother’s wedding for the world,” Sunset chipped in. “Either of them.”

Starlight chuckled, scratching the back of her neck as she recalled her brief time with Sunset in the human world. “Right. I’m sure you’re very busy over… there.”

“Not too busy to be a bridesmare.” Sunset patted Sunburst on the shoulder. “Hey, you doing alright, little bro?”

“About as well as I can,” Sunburst replied. “Right now, I might be the most anxious pony in Equestria. The butterflies in my stomach are going crazy!” He wrapped a foreleg around Starlight’s neck. “But tomorrow, I’ll be the happiest pony in Equestria.”

It wasn’t just butterflies in her stomach, Starlight decided. It was more like hornets going crazy because somepony had just thrown a rock at their nest. “Well, I’d be lying if I said I’m not nervous, too.”

“Of course you are,” Trixie said. “When aren’t you nervous?”

Starlight rolled her eyes. “More than usual. This is my wedding, Trix. This is big. Like, really big!”

"Wow, Twilight really has rubbed off on you," a new voice chimed in. Starlight turned her head to see Spike stepping into the restaurant, followed by Sunburst's entourage of groomscolts.

"Look out, make way, best dragon coming through!"

Starlight giggled at Spike's playful boast. He wasn't claiming to be the best dragon in all of Equestria, but Sunburst's hoof-picked best colt for the wedding. Given Starlight's close bond with Twilight, it was no surprise that Sunburst had grown fond of them as well. Shining Armor was Twilight’s big brother and Discord had already been a (sometimes reluctant) friend of Starlight’s. The guys often bonded over comic books and playing Ogres & Oubliettes.

“And there’s my merry band of miscreants!” Sunburst said, rather jokingly. “Thank you all for accepting my offers to be my groomscolts. It means a lot.”

“Are you kidding?!” Shining asked. “You and Starlight are like family to us!”

“Eeyup,” Big Mac agreed.

“And to think I, the Lord of Chaos, would be a part of a wedding, of all things. Discord, old boy, you seem to have grown soft. I might just have to spice things up a bit.” At the word ‘spice’, Discord summoned tubes of cinnamon, ginger, cayenne, and nutmeg.

“No antics, Discord,” Starlight warned, still unsure of Sunburst’s wisdom in choosing him as a groomscolt. “I swear to Celestia, if you ruin our wedding…”

“Oh, come now, wouldn’t dream of it,” Discord said, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “I mean, how cliché can you get? ‘Oh, here comes Discord to ruin the wedding at the last moment, who would have guessed?’ Entirely too predictable. If I wanted to crash a wedding, I’d show up unannounced and unplanned. It’s so much more chaotic when nopony expects a thing.”

“Why would you want to ruin a wedding in the first place?” Sunset asked, raising an eyebrow. Starlight had told her stories about the Lord of Chaos, but Sunset had never met him before. She eyed Discord, warily sizing up the strange being.

“I see my charms are lost upon you, given that you haven’t had the honor. I am Discord, Lord of Chaos. I’d do it for the fun of it, or perhaps to teach somepony a lesson. For example, I once turned a bridal veil into a jellyfish at the altar. You should have heard the screams and seen the panic! The poor girl had to be taken to a hospital to get treated for the stings.”

"What lesson was she supposed to learn from that?" Sunset asked, her expression a mix of disbelief and horror.

“You see, the bride-to-be just so happened to have a secret stallion on the side. It would have been much crueler if I’d let the ceremony go on and HADN’T spared the groom from a lifetime’s worth of heartbreak. The lesson being, infidelity has a terrible price.”

Sunset turned to her little brother and pointed at Discord. “You picked him as a groomscolt?”

Sunburst’s eyes darted, his face registering embarrassment. “Well, he’s not that bad once you get to know him.”

“Discord, not now,” Starlight said, her face buried in her hoof. “Save your… questionable exploits for the reception. I don’t want you freaking anypony out before the wedding.”

Discord rolled his eyes and leaned on Starlight with his elbow. “Oh, my dear Starlight, that cyan charlatan over there is right. You do worry too much.”

“Excuse me?!” Trixie barked, knowing that Discord was referring to her. “Trixie is not a charlatan, you chaotic nuisance!” She began to approach him when the door to the restaurant opened and Firelight stepped inside.

“I’m here!”

“Dad!” Starlight wrapped him in a hug, grateful for the interruption. “You made it!”

Firelight threw his front legs around Starlight and squeezed her tight. “Of course I did, sugar plum. I’m the father of the bride, after all. And I couldn’t be prouder!”

“I love you, too, Dad, but I can’t breathe.”

He pushed his daughter away and took a long look at her. “My little filly, she’s-” Firelight sniffled and wiped a tear from his eye. “She’s all grown up.”

Starlight chuckled and rubbed her father's back. "Oh, Dad. You know I'll always be your little filly, no matter how old I get."

"I know, I know," Firelight said, regaining his composure. "Time goes by too fast."

“Come on, don’t go getting all emotional on me already. The wedding’s not until tomorrow.”

“You’re right, I’ll save it for the big day. So, where’s the lucky stallion?” He glanced around, spotted Sunburst amongst his groomscolts, and patted him on the back. “Ah, there’s my soon-to-be son-in-law! You’ll take good care of her, right?”

Sunburst nodded. “I will, sir, though I think she’ll be taking care of me. Starlight’s far more powerful than I am.”

The door opened again, and Stellar Flare entered. With a slight sigh, she approached the group.

“Sunburst, dear,” she began, her voice laced with warmth and motherly authority, “while I’m sure Starlight can handle herself just fine, don’t forget that you’re the stallion. It’ll be your job to protect her.”

Sunburst's cheeks tinged with a mixture of embarrassment and affection, and he nodded in response as he wrapped a foreleg around Starlight. "Of course, Mom. I'll do my best to take care of her."

Stellar Flare gave Starlight a quick hug. “And you’ll take good care of him, too, won’t you? Make sure he keeps up with his plans and stays on task?”

Starlight giggled at that while Sunburst facehoofed. “Oh, don’t worry. I’ll be all over him.”

Twilight Sparkle arrived next and greeted Starlight with a hug. “I’m so happy for you, Starlight.”

“Thanks. There’s nopony else I’d rather officiate our wedding. You’ve done so much for me.”

Twilight smiled at them. “It’s an honor, you two.”

Rainbow Dash entered next, followed by Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rarity.

“It’s so awesome that you picked only the most awesome place in Equestria to have a wedding!” Rainbow said. “I love Las Pegasus!”

“It only made sense,” Sunburst said. “We shared our first kiss in this city, at Corrals of Fun.”

“It’s also where we first declared our love for each other,” Starlight chipped in.

Rarity let out a longing sigh. “Oh, so you’ve brought everything full-circle. How romantic!”

Princess Cadence and Flurry Heart, several residents of Ponyville and the students from the School of Friendship, Sunburst’s aunt, uncle and cousins – all arrived in the restaurant. Even the residents of Our Town showed up per Starlight’s invitation. Everyone talked among themselves and the soon-to-be newlyweds until the chefs brought out the buffet line and the aroma of fresh baked bread and roasted vegetables filled the air, causing everyone's stomachs to rumble with anticipation.

Food Fight!

The guests talked and laughed as they filled their plates in gratitude for the free food. Once everybody had been seated, Starlight tapped her glass with a spoon. “Attention, everyone!”

All at once the restaurant hushed.

“I want to thank you all for being here to celebrate this wonderful occasion with Sunburst and me. Several years ago, before I met Twilight Sparkle–Yes, that Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Equestria, I was the type who said she’d never get married, but here we are.”

Starlight put her hoof on Sunburst’s shoulder and smiled at him. He smiled back lovingly.

“Back in Las Pegasus where it all began four years ago. Before we dive into all this wonderful food, courtesy of Twilight–by the way, she paid for your rooms as well–I have a few ponies I’d like to extend a special thank you to, starting with you of course, Twilight. You saved my life back then, when you offered to be my mentor. You’ve stuck by me, faults and wrongdoings, and shown me how to really live. You turned my life around for the better. I can’t thank you enough for that and I can tell you straight from my heart, if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be standing here right now, about to marry the love of my life.”

Twilight Sparkle rose from her seat and placed a hoof on Starlight’s shoulder. "You don't have to thank me, Starlight. It was my pleasure to be your mentor and guide you on your journey. You’ve come so far from who you were back then. I may have shown you the way, but it was up to you to put in the effort to change and better yourself. You both deserve all the love and happiness in the world, and I'm so proud of you."

The guests erupted into applause and cheering as Twilight hugged Starlight, then returned to her seat.

Starlight regarded Trixie at a nearby table and continued her speech. “I’d also like to thank Trixie, my mare of honor and the best friend any mare ever had. When I first came to Ponyville I didn’t think I’d ever find somepony willing to give me a chance, but then I met you, and you showed me what true friendship really is. So thank you, my great and powerful friend.”

Trixie’s eyes glittered, prompting her to grab her napkin. “You’re welcome, my amazing and mighty bestest friend ever.” She dabbed her eyes and sniffed. “Trixie’s not crying. It’s the onions in this green bean casserole.”

The guests chuckled and Sunset offered Trixie a tissue, which she gratefully accepted.

“Don’t forget about what she and Maud did that night we shared our first kiss,” Sunburst said.

Starlight regarded the bridesmare’s table with a smile. “You’re right, Sunburst. I guess I should also thank Trixie and Maud for those stunts they pulled when we were in Las Pegasus four years ago. Their meddling helped give Sunburst and I the push we needed that day. Having said that, Trix, I’m still not sorry I made you go on the High Horse at Corrals of Fun with me.”

Maud nodded a silent acknowledgement of Starlight’s gratitude, but the memory of free-falling from two hundred feet in the air made Trixie facehoof. “Oh, you had to bring that up!”

The room laughed and Starlight held up a hoof to silence them. “I’d also like to thank everyone else who came for this. As I look around this room, I know that I have so many special friends. Some of them have come from the far corners of Equestria just to see this happen. I appreciate every one of you.”

“We love you!” Pinkie shouted.

The restaurant burst into applause and Sunburst waited until it died down to take the floor. He fiddled with his glasses as he glanced about the room, then took a deep breath, sighed and spoke. “Um, well, I’m not sure I have much I can add to that other than a special thank you to my eclectic group of groomscolts. Big Mac, Shining Armor and Discord, the Lord of Chaos himself. And, of course, Spike: my best colt… er, best dragon.

“One of the joys of being with Starlight has been all the new friendships I’ve made, and you’ve stood out as best. You were the one who practically forced us to reunite that day in the Crystal Empire. Without you, Starlight and I might never have found each other again. By the way, I’m still waiting for you to give me back my Steelhoof the Barbarian #32!”

“You’ll get it back once you give me back my Power Ponies Special Issue #25.”

Sunburst smiled and turned to Starlight. "But most of all, I want to thank you, Starlight. You’ve brought so much happiness into my life, and I can’t imagine what my world would be like without you. You’ve accepted me for who I am, flaws and all, and I promise to do the same for you, now and forever. I love you, my amazing mare."

Starlight's eyes filled with tears as she looked at Sunburst. She could feel the love radiating from him, and she felt it in her heart too. She walked up to him and nuzzled his cheek. "I love you too, my wonderful stallion," she whispered.

The crowd erupted into applause, cheering and "awww's", as Sunburst and Starlight shared a kiss. The wedding photographer captured the moment in a burst of light.

Starlight lost herself in Sunburst for a few moments, savoring the look of love in his eyes. Then she cleared her throat and regarded the onlookers. "Okay, enough of the mush. Let’s dig in! There's plenty of food for everypony!"

As everyone began eating, Flamin' Yawn emerged from the kitchen, cleared his throat and walked up to the front of the room. "Good evening, everypony," he began. "I hope you're all enjoying the food we've prepared for you tonight."

He glanced around the room, cupping his front hooves together. "Now, as some of you may know, I don't tolerate any nonsense in my kitchen, and I can assure you that my team has worked tirelessly to make sure that every dish tonight is nothing short of perfection."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "But tonight is not just about the food, it’s about the celebration of love between two wonderful ponies. It’s always an honor and a pleasure for us at Tartarus’ Kitchen to be a part of such blissful occasions. So let's raise a glass to Sunburst and Starlight and wish them a lifetime of happiness together."

He held up his own glass, and the room followed suit. "Cheers to the happy couple!" he exclaimed, taking a sip.

“Cheers!” The entire room shouted.

With that, Flamin' Yawn stepped back and resumed his position in the kitchen, watching as the guests enjoyed their meals.

Teary-eyed, Starlight wrapped a foreleg around Sunburst and rubbed her cheek against his. “I didn’t expect that. I thought they’d just bring out the food and leave us be, but Flamin’ Yawn himself toasted us.”

“Did you like that?” Sunburst asked.

“It was perfect.”

As the dinner continued, the restaurant filled with the joyful atmosphere of celebration, clinking glasses and hearty laughter. Soon the dessert table was brought out, lined with cookies, pudding, pies, cupcakes, ice cream and brownies. Two special cupcakes, one with lavender frosting and a candy mold of a bride, and the other with orange frosting and a groom, were brought out to Starlight and Sunburst’s table.

“Wow!” Starlight smiled with excitement as she gazed at her cupcake. “Tartarus’ Kitchen really goes all out, don’t they?”

“They certainly exceeded my expectations,” Sunburst said.

The couple interlocked their legs and shared a sweet smile before simultaneously taking a bite. Starlight pressed a kiss to Sunburst’s lips and dabbed his nose with her cupcake, leaving behind a blotch of purple frosting on his snout.

“Hey!” Sunburst’s protest was accompanied by a swift adjustment of his glasses before wiping the frosting away and licking it off of his hoof.

“You two are adorable,” Twilight said.

A green puff of flame emerged from the groomscolt’s table. A moment later, Spike approached Twilight with a scroll in his claw. “Letter for you, Your Highness.”

Twilight gave Spike a disapproving look and took the scroll, her eyes moving as she read it. She then turned to Starlight with an apology on her face. “I have to step out for a moment, Starlight. Apparently the Manehatten city council is having a major spat of some sort. I’ll be right back.”

Starlight offered an understanding smile. “Well, you are the princess! Don’t worry about it. We’ll still be here when you get back.”

With a purple flash, Twilight vanished from the dining room.

Despite Twilight’s absence, Starlight glanced around the room, taking in the smiling faces of their friends and family. She wanted to savor that atmosphere of love forever, but sudden shouting broke the peacefulness of the restaurant.

“My mouth! My mouth is on fire!”

In the back of the dining room, Gallus leapt to his feet and sprinted towards the refreshment table with a yelp of pain, spewing flames from his mouth as he crossed the table where Sunburst’s relatives sat, setting the tablecloth ablaze. Sunburst’s aunt, uncle and cousins screamed as they scrambled away.

“Fire!” Pinkie Pie shouted. She grabbed one of the 10-gallon water jugs from the refreshment table, unscrewed the lid and heaved its contents on the burning table, completely soaking Sunburst’s aunt with the ice-cold water.

Gallus kept running, knocking over another table where the residents of Our Town were sitting, spilling hot coffee on Double Diamond’s lap and splashing Night Glider with her own soup. Double Diamond yelped in pain as he shoved himself away from the table and collided with a nearby bus pony, whose plates of half-eaten food flew through the air. One of them nailed Yona square in the face, while another struck the bridesmare’s table, splattering all of them with mashed potatoes and cold gravy.

“What in tarnation?!” Applejack yelled.

Yona smiled and wiped her face clean. “Who throws food at Yak? Is it time for traditional wedding food fight?!”

“No! Stop!” Starlight shouted, holding a foreleg out to emphasize.

“WE MUST HAVE TRADITIONAL WEDDING FOOD FIGHT!” Yona bellowed at the top of her lungs before launching her plate of pie towards the Ponyville crew table where it hit Rainbow Dash in the back of the head.

Rainbow cringed, touched the back of her head and saw pie filling on her hoof. She shot up in the air, still holding her tray of pudding. “Alright, you wanna have a food fight? Let’s have a food fight!” Rainbow drew back her foreleg and lobbed the pudding tray at Yona.

In mere moments food, plates and cups criss-crossed through the air while Gallus chugged the remaining water cooler straight from the tap. Some of the grown mares wept as ponies scattered clear of the crossfire, crashing into and tripping over each other. Fluttershy squeaked in terror and darted out of the restaurant, leaving the chaos behind her.

Pinkie Pie, never one to miss out on fun, ducked under a flying bowl of spaghetti and came up with her own tray of cupcakes. “Food fight!” she screamed with a jubilant smile, hurling the cupcakes at everypony in sight.

Big Macintosh leapt up and intercepted a flying bowl of coleslaw homing in on Sugar Belle. It struck him right on the nose, leaving his face covered in the creamy mess.

“What the hay is going on out here?!” Flamin’ Yawn yelled as he stuck his head out the kitchen door. “Hey, absolutely not! Not in my flipping restaurant!” A plate of fried rice struck the wall next to him and he retreated back into the kitchen. Not even his infamously loud voice penetrated the chaos as the food fight continued.

“You call this having everything under control?!” Stellar Flare barked as she dodged an airborne hot potato. “Take charge for once in your life, Sunburst!”

“What do you want me to do about it?!”

“Ugh, nevermind. I’LL do it!”

Sunburst leaned close to Starlight. “Cover your ears. She’s about to use her ‘angry mom’ voice.”

“Everypony, stop this at once! You should all be ashamed of-”

Stellar Flare never finished, as a whole cherry pie struck her square in the face, leaving it a mess of crumbs and pie filling as she dropped to her knees with a sob. “Oh! And I had just taken a bath, too!”

“This is so uncouth!” Rarity yelled as she blasted away a slice of chocolate cake before it could touch her. An instant later, a bowl of salad landed on her head like a vegetable-laden hat, disheveling her mane into mess of greens and dressing. She shook the bowl off, her face scrunched in a scowl. “Oh! It. Is. On!” Rarity grabbed her plate of chocolate mousse and launched it in the direction the salad bowl came from.

Discord materialized beside Starlight and Sunburst, munching on a bag of popcorn as he watched Scootaloo dump the punch bowl over Applebloom’s head.

“Ah, the old punch shower, classic! This is what I call a wedding! Quite a display of chaos, wouldn’t you agree?”

“Discord, do something!” Sunburst yelled as Applebloom retaliated by squirting their table’s bottle of mustard in Scootaloo’s face.

“Now why would I do that? This is far too entertaining! Want some?” Discord held his bag of popcorn out to Starlight, and she promptly swatted it out of his claw as Sunburst knelt down to console his mom.

“Is this your handiwork?” Starlight demanded.

Discord rolled his eyes – literally this time – and crossed his arms against his chest as his peepers settled back in place. "Oh, how typical! Chaos unfurls its flamboyant wings, and who gets the blame? Innocent little moi, naturally. And might I add, your steadfast lack of trust in me has been glaringly evident throughout the entire evening. I have feelings, too, and you’ve hurt them. If I'm truly as horrid as you seem to believe, perhaps I should just step back and let this delightful mayhem run its course.”

Starlight facehoofed. “Ugh, fine! I’m sorry!”

Discord studied her for a moment, then shrugged. “I suppose that’ll do for now. But I’ll expect a better apology later.”

Discord snapped his fingers and everything in the restaurant from the creatures to the food froze in mid-motion, as if time itself had stopped, painting a delightful tapestry of mayhem.

“Oh, what a splendid photo opportunity!” Discord trilled with glee. He strolled over to Firelight and removed the camera from his shoulders. “Pardon me, sir. Mind if I borrow this for just a moment?”

Clicking the camera, Discord captured snapshots of the suspended chaos from different angles. He found Trixie, sitting at the bridesmares table with a scoop of vanilla ice cream hitting her in the face, the ricocheting splatter still frozen in mid-motion. Discord cackled with amusement as he took several closeup shots. Then, with a mischievous glint in his eye, he wrapped a friendly arm around Firelight—the expression of alarm stuck on his face—and aimed the camera at the two of them.

“Honestly, would it have killed you to smile for the photo?” Discord quipped as the instant film emerged from the camera. He leaned his arm on Firelight, showing him the picture they had just taken. “Just look at you. Your daughter is about to be married, and this is how you react? Our dear Starlight will be crushed.”

Discord returned the camera to Firelight and took a few more moments to savor the scene and the expressions on the creatures’ faces: Anger, fear, shock, excitement and confusion. Satisfied, he snapped his fingers and all of the airborne food dropped straight to the ground.

***

All at once the restaurant hushed. Starlight found herself gripped in a sudden peculiar haze and rubbed her eyes, finding everyone else equally as disoriented. Sunburst took off his glasses and readjusted them.

“What did you do, Discord?” Sunburst asked. “Everything just came to a complete halt.”

“Why, I stopped all the chaos, just as you asked me to.”

Starlight glanced around and noticed Discord carrying several pieces of paper that hadn’t been in his claw and only a moment ago. “Where’d those come from?”

“Oh these? Just a little hobby I’ve picked up.”

"Hobby?" Starlight arched her eyebrow. She stepped forward to examine the papers more closely, finding snapshots of the food fight and unexpected selfies of Discord and her dad.

Firelight peered over Starlight’s shoulder to look at the photos. “What the? Discord! These instant film sheets are expensive! Don’t waste them.”

“How and when did you-” Starlight pondered out loud. A moment later it dawned on her. “Discord, did you stop time?!”

Discord scoffed. "Oh, please. Unlike certain individuals in our esteemed gathering, tampering with the delicate fabric of time is beneath me. I simply placed this room in a state of suspended animation, a little hiccup in the temporal flow, if you will. Time continued its steady march forward, uninterrupted.”

Everyone looked around at the horrific mess laid out across the dining room, but they shied their eyes away from each other in shame.

“Who’s responsible for this?!” Starlight yelled. None dared meet her eyes and the anger in her belly grew. “Well?! Who started the fire?!”

“She tried to burn my mouth off!” Gallus yelled, pointing at someone. As Starlight looked around to see who, Smolder eased her arm into the air.

Starlight marched across the room to the students’ table, keeping a death glare locked onto Smolder. “What. Did you. Do?!”

Smolder pointed at a plate on the table, indicating the half-eaten pepper in the remains of a sandwich.

“A dragon pepper?!” Starlight shouted. The other students backed away from her rage.

“It was an accident, okay?” Smolder said. “I didn’t mean for all this to happen. It was just a prank. I didn’t think he’d actually start spitting fire.”

“Well,” Starlight huffed, the veins in her neck bulging, her voice growing louder and angrier as she spoke, “let me give you some life advice, Smolder. If you’re going to prank someone with the hottest pepper in the world, save it for something a little less important than somepony’s wedding rehearsal!”

Smolder shrugged. “We dragons eat those things like candy.”

“Does Gallus look like a dragon to you?!”

Sunburst stepped up to them and rubbed Starlight’s back in what she knew was an effort to calm her down. “You know, Smolder, I think an apology would go a long way here.”

“Apologize?” Smolder crossed her arms and scoffed. “Dragons don’t say ‘I’m sorry’.”

Starlight growled and pressed her nose against Smolder’s, glaring into the dragon’s blue eyes.

Smolder threw her arms up in surrender. “Okay, okay. I’m sorry!”

“That’s not good enough,” Starlight said.

Looking around, Smolder wilted under the realization that the entire room was staring daggers at her and that this entire mess was, indeed, her fault. “Gallus, I seriously didn’t know your mouth would catch fire if you ate that pepper. I thought it was just a harmless prank.” Smolder turned to Starlight and Sunburst, “and if I’d known it would’ve caused all of this, I wouldn’t have done it. I’m really, really sorry and I’ll never do it again.”

“Very good,” Starlight said. She then turned to Yona. “And you! What in Equestria made you think that starting a food fight at a wedding rehearsal was a good idea?!”

“Yona sorry, too,” the Yak said, fidgeting with her hoof. “Yona got excited. Wanted to do Yak tradition.”

“Yak traditions are for Yak weddings, not pony weddings!”

“Well, you’ve certainly made this rehearsal dinner… unforgettable,” Sunburst said, looking around at all the food and tableware strewn about the dining room. A chunk of cake, which had been stuck to the ceiling by its frosting, fell on top of Sunburst’s head.

Almost everypony wore battle scars from the food fight: Applebloom soaked with punch, Stellar Flare’s face a crimson mask of cherry pie filling, Rainbow Dash with pudding on the back of her head and the bridesmares covered in mashed potatoes and gravy.

Sighing, Starlight shook her head. “Okay, everypony, go back to your rooms and get cleaned up. We’ll meet back in the chapel in one hour for the rehearsal.”

All the creatures left the restaurant one by one, their heads hanging in either embarrassment, defeat or guilt until only Starlight and Sunburst remained.

“Aren’t we missing somepony?” Sunburst asked.

As if on cue, Twilight warped back into the restaurant in a flash of magic. “I’m sorry about that, Starlight. Royal obligations.” Twilight looked around the dining room, a look of shock on her face. “What in Equestria happened here?! I was only gone for ten minutes!”

Starlight rolled her eyes, shaking her head. “It’s a long story.”

"Tell me all about it while we walk to the chapel. Tartarus' Kitchen has their work cut out for them cleaning up this mess!"

"Excuse me, your Highness?" Flamin' Yawn asked. "I know you're the princess, but if you want to have another reservation in my restaurant, I'll be expecting some sort of compensation."

Twilight sighed, nodding understandingly. “You’re right, Flamin’ Yawn. This is unacceptable. As compensation, how would you like to cater for this year’s Grand Galloping Gala?”

Flamin’ Yawn’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really? The Grand Galloping Gala?”

Twilight smiled warmly. “Absolutely. Your culinary skills deserve to be showcased at such a prestigious event. And, of course, we will cover all the costs for cleaning up this mess and any additional expenses.”

Flamin’ Yawn’s rubbed his chin in thought. “Well, that’s... very generous of you, Princess. I suppose we can manage that.”

“Thank you, Flamin’ Yawn,” Twilight said, extending a hoof. “I’ll look forward to seeing what delicacies you’ll have to offer.”

Flamin’ Yawn shook her hoof, a small smile forming on his face. “Deal.”

“Nice work, Twilight! Very diplomatic,” Sunburst said as Twilight turned to them.

Twilight shrugged. “I learned a lot from Celestia.”

Starlight turned for the door, heaving a sigh. “Well, guess we should go get ready for the rehearsal.”

As they headed out of the restaurant, Starlight heard one last tirade from Flamin’ Yawn.

“Well, what am I paying you lot for? Don’t just stand around; get out there and fix this flipping mess! I want that floor so clean, even I would eat off of it, understood?!”

“Yes, Chef!”

The Rehearsal

Starlight Glimmer paced back and forth outside the door to the chapel, a look of anger mixed with embarrassment on her face. “Sunburst, it was a disaster! Seriously, who starts a food fight at a rehearsal dinner?”

“A yak, apparently,” Sunburst said, recalling Yona as the instigator. “I’m not looking down on Yakyakistani traditions or anything, but–”

“I don’t care where she’s from, that was barbaric!” Starlight hissed. “This is supposed to be a wedding and it’s already turned into a circus. Honestly, I blame Smolder for this. If she hadn’t pranked Gallus with that dragon pepper in the first place, none of this would have happened!”

Sunburst nodded, understanding Starlight’s frustration. “I know, it wasn’t what we expected, but it’s in the past now. You don’t want to let it ruin the rest of our wedding, do you?”

Starlight stopped her pacing and looked at Sunburst, the fire in her eyes beginning to subside. “I just wanted everything to be perfect, you know? This is supposed to be our time, and it already feels like it’s falling apart.”

Sunburst placed a hoof on her shoulder. “I wanted it to be perfect, too, and it still can be. It’s not over until I kiss the bride, right?” He smiled and gave her a wink.

Starlight couldn’t help but smile back, her anger all but gone. “Thanks, Sunburst. You always know how to make me feel better.”

“That’s my job.” Sunburst pulled her into a hug.

When Stellar Flare stepped into the chapel, she met Rarity with a roll of her eyes. “Still haven’t finished with the decorating, I see.”

“Well, it was only an hour between our previous discussion and the rehearsal dinner,” Rarity replied. “Forgive me if I spent the last half an hour washing vinaigrette and ranch dressing out of my mane.”

“Like a pie to the face is any better,” Stellar grumbled.

“In any case, I suppose I’ll be staying up late tonight finishing the decorating.”

Once everypony had arrived, Twilight stepped up to the podium and spoke into the microphone. “Thank you, everypony, for coming to Starlight and Sunburst’s wedding rehearsal. Um… well, I’ve never officiated a wedding before so bear with me.” She stopped on a nervous giggle. “Let’s see… I read through this several times…”

Starlight swallowed a tense lump in her throat from her spot in the hallway that ran perpendicular to the wedding aisle where the parents, bridesmares and groomscolts waited.

Applejack chuckled. “Of course she did. Same old Twi.”

“I was about to say the same thing,” Sunset added.

“...and so, without further ado, we’ll get started.” Twilight hesitated a moment, then pulled a book from the podium entitled Wedding Officiating for Derps.

Starlight ran her hoof across her face. “Is she serious?”

“Easy, hun,” Sunburst said, rubbing Starlight’s back. “I’m sure she’s just nervous.”

Trixie smiled, holding her nose high. “Well, I guess public speaking is one thing I can do better than her. Trixie never was afraid of an audience.”

“Is this what you call having everything planned out, Sunburst?” Stellar Flare asked. “She might be the princess, but having to consult a reference book is a clear sign of disorganization.”

“Have a little faith in Twilight, you guys,” Spike interjected. “She’s totally got this.”

“Okay, first up is the groom and the groom’s mother,” Twilight called out. “Sunburst, Stellar Flare, please approach the podium. The best colt, or best dragon in our case, should walk with you. The groomscolts will then follow.”

Sunburst escorted Stellar Flare down the aisle, flanked by Spike. The groomscolts followed suit, who lined up on the left of the podium.

“Okay, the flower girl and the ring bearer are next!” Twilight yelled.

Flurry Heart skipped into the aisle, spreading lavender and orange petals as she went. Pound Cake followed, carrying a mockup of the black ring box. As he trotted down the aisle, he slipped on one of Flurry’s petals and met the floor with a faceplant.

The little pegasus sat up, lower lip quivering with tears welling in his eyes. The ensuing wail rang through the cathedral. Flurry Heart turned to check on him and he let out another scream, right in Flurry’s ear. Her face twisted into a grimace.

“Oh, this isn’t good,” Spike said. “You might wanna plug your ears.”

Starlight and Sunburst went prone, clamped their hooves over their ears and braced themselves as a deafening cry and waves of alicorn power shook the entire cathedral. The supersonic wailing continued until Cadance retrieved Flurry and calmed her with a motherly embrace.

“I don’t wanna be the ring bearer anymore!” Pound Cake cried as his parents carried him back to their seats.

As the cathedral slowly returned to a semblance of calm, Starlight drooped and shook her head in embarrassment. Twilight glanced around, tapping her hoof while she waited for everyone to recover from the ear-shattering noise.

“That could have gone better,” Starlight moaned.

Sunset Shimmer scratched the back of her neck. “Well, what’s a wedding without a little drama, huh?”

“I think we’ve had enough drama for one night,” Stellar Flare said.

The cries faded away, allowing silence to set in and Twilight to take the floor. “Last, but certainly not least, our pianist will play a bridal tune. The bride will then approach the altar, escorted by her father and the bridesmares will follow.”

“Stop stressing, Pumpkin,” Firelight whispered, offering Starlight his foreleg. “It was just a little mishap.”

Not the first of tonight’s long list of mishaps.

Starlight took her father’s leg and they walked down the aisle, side-by-side. Trixie led the bridesmares behind them, who lined up on the right side of the podium. Starlight met Sunburst’s eyes and he smiled warmly at her. She smiled back.

Twilight opened her mouth to say something but stopped short to check her book. “Wait a minute, this is all wrong. The groom and his entourage should be on the right side of the podium. The bride and bridesmares should be on the left.”

The sounds of snickering filled Starlight’s ears and she gave a nervous laugh of her own as everypony swapped sides, her cheeks burning as she looked to Sunburst for comfort.

“I thought everypony knew that,” Starlight heard Rarity whisper, further burying Starlight in humiliation. Sunburst’s face reddened.

Stellar Flare stood up from her seat. “Excuse me, your highness, but how have you not come prepared? This is my son’s wedding!”

Twilight hid her face–and embarrassment–in the book. “Heh. Good thing this is just the rehearsal, huh?” Twilight glanced at Starlight, noting the ‘get me out of here’ look on her face, and her ears drooped. “I’m sorry, Starlight, Sunburst."

“No, it’s okay,” Starlight said. That’s a lie. It’s definitely not okay. “Let’s continue.”

“Right,” Twilight sighed. “Now it’s at this point I will say my part, then you two will hold each other’s hoof. Remember to look at your partner like they’re the only pony in the room.”

Sunburst nodded, genuine affection in his eyes as Starlight met a gaze that set her heart on fire.

“And then I’ll read you the vows, you’ll say ‘I do’ and that’ll be a wrap.”

“Okay,” Sunburst sighed. “Easy enough, right?”

Starlight grumbled, face turned to the ground and Sunburst rubbed her cheek.

The rest of the ceremony went smoothly but the worry in Sunburst's eyes only increased as Starlight stayed silent as a clam, and when they left, she trotted then galloped to their suite, ending with a resounding door slam.

***

“Come on– come on Starlight. Don’t… don't do that. Nopony told me weddings were an… Olympic sport…”

After catching his breath, Sunburst knocked on the door to the shower in their suite, where Starlight had opted to barricade herself to cry in a fit of grief and shame. When she didn't reply, Sunburst sat down on the bed and closed his eyes, waiting her out.

“Starlight, you’ve been in there for half an hour,” he finally said, after checking the clock for the tenth time. “Please come out and talk to me.”

“Ugh, tonight was a nightmare!” Starlight’s voice came from the other side of the door. “We had everything planned out, but then there were dragon peppers, a small fire, a HUGE food fight and a totally botched rehearsal! This was supposed to be our time, and it’s ruined!”

“I know it didn’t go the way we wanted to, but it was just the rehearsal. We’ll have a perfect wedding tomorrow, and everything that happened tonight are things we’ll look back on and laugh at.”

There was silence on the other side of the door.

“You’re not going to let tonight ruin the wedding, are you?” Sunburst asked, a sweet tone in his voice.

A moment later the door opened and Starlight stepped out, her mane disheveled and her eyes red and puffy from crying. Sunburst opened his forelegs and Starlight stepped into his waiting embrace. He held her tight, rubbing her back to comfort her. “Come on, let’s get some sleep. Tomorrow’s a big day.”

“Sleep? Do I look like I want to sleep?” Starlight starting pacing. “At this point I've half a mind to run outside, hail down a cab and head for Manehattan, Ponyville, or wherever's farthest from here! Why do ponies go through this insane ritual that stresses everypony to the limit and costs a princess’ ransom?!”

Sunburst smiled in that wistful way that understanding husbands come to learn. “Because we're suckers for love.”

Starlight managed a small smile. “Something like that. Oh Sunburst, what will we do?”

Rather than answer, he walked to the nearby nightstand, opened a drawer and pulled out a box, wrapped in fancy paper and ribbon.

‘Here.” Sunburst held out the box to her. “All your answers are in here.”

Starlight snorted, snatching the box. “Now what…” She ripped at the paper and ribbon. “You can't solve everything with a gift, although I appreciate–”

She stopped short, her eyes widening in wonder, the smile returning. “No! But how could--it's so rare!”

Sunburst leaned back, arms behind him, triumph in his voice and smile. “Remember when I found Star Swirl’s lost journal? That place had a lot of other one-of-a-kind things, including the–”

“The Deluxe Master Build of Dragon Pit! Wait, is this the one that Dame Fortune herself made? The one with the sterling silver game pieces and the jeweled marbles and mother of pearl inlaid game board?”

“The very same.” Sunburst turned the ornately designed wooden game box around to reveal a symbol burnt into one side. “She signed it with her cutie mark.”

“Then this is worth a fortune!”

“Tell me about it. Took me two years and a few trades besides to pay it off, but the look on your face is worth it.”

Starlight paused, realizing the glee of the moment had entirely swept away the bitter memories of the day. “It is worth it, but because you thought enough of me to do that.”

“Still think marriage is nutty?”

“Absolutely. Now, there's a table in the closet, and there's a pony here who's going to beat you every way possible!”

Sunburst laughed as he headed for the closet. “You're welcome to try. Prepare for your dragon to face the wrath of the pit!”

Now her laughter mingled with his as the game took all their interest. When they were done and the lights went out, the happy couple lay content, Starlight cradling her prize, and Sunburst his.

The Wedding

Stellar Flare gasped when she walked into the chapel as one of the first ponies to arrive. Beautiful white ribbons weaved their way across the ceiling, mingling with lavender on one side and tangerine on the other – just like her Sunburst. The two colors met at the altar and intertwined around the poles to symbolize the union between Sunburst and his new bride.

The end table next to the podium held a pot filled with lavender flowers and orange roses. Clusters of purple and orange balloons adorned the area around the podium, and each pew had been meticulously decorated with purple, orange and white garland.

It was elegant, beautiful and yet simple. A tear crawled down Stellar’s cheek and she sniffed as she realized this was all just for her son and the love of his life. That Rarity pony really did know what she was doing.

“Stellar Flare,” Rarity huffed as she arrived in the chapel wearing a shimmering red gown. “Here to criticize my work, I suppose?”

“Actually, I would like to compliment you on the fantastic job you’ve done. This is everything my Sunburst deserves, and I’m sorry for doubting you.”

That was all Rarity needed to hear.

“Well, consider it water under the bridge. This day isn’t about me, after all.” Rarity paused, noting the mascara trickling down Stellar’s cheeks. “Oh, Stellar, you’re crying. Here, allow me.”

Knowing that many in the procession-herself included-might need them, Rarity had brought a box of facial tissues. She pulled one out and offered it to Stellar.

Stellar looked at the tissue for a moment, then smiled at Rarity and accepted it. “Thank you, Rarity.” She dabbed her eyes with the tissue and then blew into it. “Ugh, just look at me. The wedding hasn’t even started yet and I’m already ruining my makeup.”

“It’s an emotional day, darling. There is no shame in crying, especially for the groom’s mother.” As Rarity looked at Stellar, she didn’t see the ‘old crone’ she met the day before, but a good mother, her eyes glittering with pride. It was enough to move Rarity to tears herself. She grabbed another tissue and wiped her face, being careful not to smear her own mascara. “You must be so proud of your Sunburst.”

“Of course I am! And I caught a peek at the wedding dress you made for Starlight. I must say, you did a flawless job. It’s absolutely gorgeous.”

Rarity nodded. “Why thank you. It is what I do. But I suppose I’d better find a seat, and you’d better get into position. The wedding will be starting any moment!”

***

Meanwhile, in the groom’s room, Spike helped Sunburst straighten his bowtie, but his legs quivered with anxiety. All of the groomscolts, even Discord, were dressed in gentlemanly tuxedos.

“Relax,” Spike said. “I’ve seen Fluttershy shake less when she’s nervous!”

Sunburst let out a sigh, trying to compose himself. “This could wind up being both one of the best and most ‘I may throw up’ days of my life.”

Satisfied that Sunburst’s sleeves were perfect, Shining stepped back and smiled at him. “You’ll do great out there, pal. Once you see your bride walking down the aisle in her wedding dress, you’ll realize that this is the happiest day of your life.”

“Eeyup,” Big Mac agreed as he combed Sunburst’s mane. Both he and Shining were the voices of experience, as they’d already been married and knew exactly what Sunburst should expect.

“Well, she is my oldest friend…”

“All the more reason not to worry,” Discord said. He snapped his talons and a pot of coffee materialized in front of him. “Perhaps you should switch to decaf. I mean, how bad could this be? Let’s be honest, how many timelines did Starlight doom because of how you left her when you were foals? Nothing says ‘I love you’ like nearly destroying Equestria several times over.”

“Stuff I’d rather not bring up today,” Sunburst answered, his voice a warning as Discord took a drink from the coffee pot.

Discord wrinkled his nose in disgust. “Ugh. Decaf.” He snapped his fingers and the coffee pot vanished. “That's why you ponies are so neurotic! You internalize everything and then it comes out in bursts of unbridled emotion.”

Discord snapped his fingers again and Sunburst found himself lying on his back on a psychiatrist’s couch next to Discord, who was now wearing a sweater vest with a necktie and glasses. He also carried a pen and clipboard. “Now, why don’t you start by bringing your feelings out in the open? Let it all out! It’s good for the psyche.”

Sunburst stood up from the couch. “Actually, I’m not sure I like that idea.”

Discord raised an eyebrow at Sunburst for a moment. “Well, if you’re not going to play along, why am I even bothering?” He snapped his fingers and the couch, along with his psychiatric attire, vanished.

Spike grumbled and began smoothing out the back of Sunburst’s suit. “Great, now you’ve got his tux all wrinkled. I just finished fixing that, too.”

There was a knock at the door and Twilight Sparkle poked her head in. “Ok, Sunburst, it’s time!”

“Right,” Sunburst sighed, his heartbeat quickening. “Right, right, right.”

“Everything will be perfect, trust me,” Twilight said. “I’m heading to the podium now. Best not to keep everypony waiting.”

Twilight left the room and Sunburst took a deep breath to gather his nerve.

“Relax,” Spike said. “You totally got this. Hey, who helped the two of you meet up again in the Crystal Empire?”

Sunburst smiled down at him. “You did, Spike.”

“Then listen to me: there’s nothing to worry about!”

“You’re right.” Sunburst nodded with resolve. “Okay, guys, let’s break a leg!”

Everyone stood up and marched to the start of the aisle where Stellar Flare, wearing an elegant red dress, met her son with a hug.

“I’m so proud of you, Sunburst,” she said. She pulled away, keeping a hoof on Sunburst’s shoulder and beamed at him, her eyes glittering. “Just look at you, so handsome.”

“Thanks, mom,” Sunburst said, fighting back tears. “I guess if you put an expensive suit on an average looking guy like me, he can be quite the stud, huh?”

Stellar gave him a light smack on the cheek. “Now you stop that. You look very handsome.”

“Just kidding, mom. So, which of my esteemed groomscolts would you like to walk you down the aisle?”

Stellar Flare smiled and looked around at the entourage. "I think I'll ask Big Macintosh. He's a strong and steady presence, just what I need right now."

Sunburst nodded. "Sounds good to me. Thanks, Big Mac, I owe you one."

Big Mac simply nodded and offered his foreleg to Stellar Flare. "Eeyup.”

***

Meanwhile, Starlight paced the bridal room back and forth, her dress rustling and her chest rising and falling with frantic breaths. Trixie, wearing a sky-blue dress adorned with tiny shimmering stars, finished tying Starlight’s hair into an elegant bun while Sunset spritzed her with an elegant perfume she’d brought from the human world.

“Just relax,” Trixie said. “This wedding is going to be perfect, and if not, you can always go back in time and try again until it is. It won’t be the first time you’ve torn the fabric of space and time over Sunburst.”

“Oh, can we not?!” Starlight facehoofed while Applejack gave Trixie a sharp glare.

Trixie put a comforting hoof on Starlight's shoulder. "Okay, okay, no time travel jokes, got it. But seriously, you’ve got nothing to worry about. Sunburst loves you! You two are meant to be together, and today is just the beginning of your happily ever after."

Starlight took a deep breath and nodded. "You're right, Trix. I just can't believe this is finally happening. I've waited so long for this day."

“You remind me of a piece of basalt,” Maud said, dressed in a plain gray gown not unlike the frock she usually wore.

Applejack chuckled, wearing the same dress she’d worn to the Grand Galloping Gala several years ago. “What in the hay is that supposed to mean, Maud?”

"Basalt is formed from volcanic lava flows, which can create a lot of pressure and tension. But once it cools and solidifies, it becomes incredibly strong and durable. I see the same kind of strength and durability in your relationship with Sunburst.”

“I think what she’s trying to say is you’re tense now, but once your nerves cool, you and my brother will be rock solid together,” Sunset said.

Starlight looked at Sunset, then to Maud who nodded in confirmation and then to Trixie. “Thanks, everypony.”

A soft piano melody found its way into Starlight’s ears, signaling that the procession had begun.

“You hear that?” Trixie asked.

“Yup,” Starlight sighed, heart thumping. “It’s time.”

“Then what are sittin’ around here for? Let’s mosey on out there and get y’all hitched!” Applejack shouted.

“Yeah!” Sunset added. “What are you so nervous for? This is supposed to be the happiest day of your life! Are you gonna keep my brother waiting forever?”

“Go on, Starlight,” Trixie said, nudging Starlight with her elbow. “You’re gonna knock Sunburst dead in that dress!”

Starlight smiled, allowing their enthusiasm to quiet her nerves. “You’re right. Let’s do this!”

They all cheered except for Maud. Even though her expression hadn’t changed, Starlight knew Maud was cheering for her on the inside. Together they left the room; the music grew louder as they approached the aisle entrance where Firelight waited, wearing a dapper tuxedo. He smiled at Starlight, his eyes telling her that he was fighting back tears.

“There’s my pumpkin,” he said, putting a hoof on her shoulder. “Gosh, you look beautiful. That Sunburst is one lucky stallion.”

Starlight smiled back and hugged him. “Thanks, dad.”

Firelight returned the hug and offered Starlight his foreleg.

“Are you ready, Starlight?”

Starlight smiled and took his leg in her own. “I am. Are you?”

Firelight smiled and nodded; his eyes gleaming.

***

Sunburst stood at the altar, looking back at the beginning of the aisle. Princess Flurry Heart emerged next, sprinkling flower petals as she walked. Ring bearer Pound Cake followed close behind and gave Twilight the tiny black box when he reached the altar.

Then the start of the aisle remained empty. All was still for what seemed like an eternity, but Sunburst finally saw a bit of movement. His heart flew as Twilight nodded to the pianist. The music stopped for a moment. Then a bridal tune filled the cathedral with Fluttershy’s birds singing in tandem.

Sunburst’s jaw hung open and his anxiety washed away, replaced by awe as he watched the most beautiful thing he’d ever seen in his life saunter down the aisle towards him, arm-in-arm with her father. Starlight’s dress shimmered in the light as she moved, flowing like a river of white silk. Lacy stars and flowers adorned the front of it, and Starlight’s bridal veil had been pulled backward, beautifying her already perfectly-bunned mane.

Shining Armor’s words echoed in Sunburst’s mind: Once you see your bride walking down that aisle in her wedding dress, you’ll realize this is the happiest day of your life.

The Prince of the Crystal Empire had been right.

It still amazed Sunburst how a dork like him managed to win over such a radiant mare…

***

Just like in her dream, Starlight found herself looking at the most handsome stallion in Equestria. Dressed in a black tuxedo, Sunburst beckoned his bride with flared cheeks and a fascinated smile.

Flames seemed to burn in Starlight’s face, and her heart thumped so hard she figured her dad could feel it, too.

“I’m so proud of you, pumpkin,” Firelight whispered into her ear. Starlight didn’t look at him, but knew he had tears in his eyes. “You grew up way too fast but know that I’ll always love you like a little filly.”

“I love you, too, dad.”

The nightmare poked at Starlight’s mind, but she kept a smile as she reached the podium and lost herself in Sunburst’s blue eyes. An aroma of masculine cologne invigorated her desire.

Princess Twilight Sparkle stood at the podium, beaming with pride at how far her student had come. Then she addressed the crowd. “Welcome, everypony! You may all be seated.”

Everypony did so.

A nervous knot formed in Starlight’s gut. It’s exactly like the nightmare…

“Before we begin, may I ask who gives away this bride?”

Firelight stood up. “As her father, I do, your highness.”

Well, that’s different, at least… Starlight smiled at him, then returned her gaze to Sunburst.

“Thank you, Firelight.” As Firelight took his seat, Twilight continued, “Fillies and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of Starlight Glimmer and Sunburst in holy matrimony. They have chosen to join their lives together in front of all of us, their friends and family. Starlight Glimmer, Sunburst; together you bring out the best in each other, and I have no doubt that your love will continue to flourish and shine brighter with each passing day. As you stand here today, ready to take your vows, I want you to remember the love, trust, and commitment that brought you to this point. May your marriage be blessed with joy, laughter, and endless adventures. May it inspire others to believe in the power of love and the magic of friendship. And so, without further ado; I ask that you two hold each other’s hoof.”

Starlight felt her nerves settle as Sunburst reached for her hoof, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

“Starlight Glimmer,” Twilight began, “do you take Sunburst to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold and to cherish, through both happiness and strife, and both sickness and health, as long as you both shall live?”

As Starlight gazed into Sunburst’s eyes, she knew there was only one answer. “I do.”

Sunburst smiled, his eyes radiating love. “I do.”

Flinching ever so slightly, Starlight braced herself—this was the moment he turned into Chrysalis in her nightmares.

With a gentle nod, Twilight handed the little black box to Sunburst, who pulled from it a beautiful white diamond ring and fitted it onto Starlight’s horn. Starlight’s heart swelled with joy and relief, a rush of emotion washing away the lingering fear of her nightmare.

Twilight watched this with a proud smile. “Now, by my power as Princess of Equestria, I hereby pronounce you husband and wife. Sunburst, you may kiss your bride.”

The room's lighting began to dim, casting a gentle, intimate ambiance. Out of the corner of her eye, Starlight noticed Discord controlling the lights with his talon. At the same time he raised his lionlike paw, summoning a spotlight that focused solely on the couple at the altar.

Sunburst rubbed Starlight’s cheek with a tender touch, looking deeply and longingly into her eyes as he went in for the kiss.

It was the sweetest, longest kiss Starlight had ever experienced. She savored the warmth of his lips and caught a pleasant aroma as he sighed through his nose. Mint? Sunburst must have taken some before the ceremony. And the love in that kiss was so tangible she could almost taste it. It was just the two of them now, locked in a moment of pure bliss.

When the lights came back on, Starlight realized everypony was standing and clapping. Starlight wiped a tear away and threw herself into her husband’s embrace.

“I told you it would be perfect,” Sunburst whispered into her ear.

A triumphant wedding march played on the piano, filling the cathedral with its joyful melody, while Fluttershy's birds chirped in chorus. Starlight and Sunburst turned to face the crowd; their forelegs interlocked. Among them, Starlight spotted her father wiping his eyes, while Stellar Flare dabbed at her own tears with a tissue.

“Three cheers for the newlyweds!” Pinkie screamed at the top of her lungs.

Starlight shook her head, unable to lose her smile as she and Sunburst walked down the aisle to shouts of “hip, hip, hooray!”

Starlight couldn't help but feel a surge of happiness and relief wash over her. All the anxiety and fear that had been gnawing at her for days had melted away, leaving only pure joy in its wake.

Once they reached the end of the aisle, Sunburst scooped Starlight up in his forelegs and tried to twirl her around, but his rear legs crumbled under Starlight’s weight and she shrieked as she felt herself fall, landing right on top of Sunburst’s chest. Sunburst wheezed, as the impact knocked the wind out of him. They shared a brief gaze of disbelief, then both giggled as Starlight kissed him on the mouth. Several onlookers shared their laughter.

“Smooth,” Starlight said, smirking at him. She rose to her hooves and offered Sunburst her foreleg.

“Yeah, that might have been a little bit out of my skill set,” Sunburst said as Starlight hoisted him back up.

“Way to go, little bro!” Sunset said with a chuckle. She stepped up and hugged Sunburst, which the photographer captured in a burst of light. "Congratulations."

Sunburst returned the hug. "Thanks, big sis. I miss you; you know?"

"I miss you, too, Sunburst. One of these days we need to sit down and talk about the good old days." Sunset moved on to Starlight and hugged her as well. The camera flashed again. "And I don't think I could've asked for a better sister in-law."

Starlight giggled. "That's kind of funny. I guess we are sisters in-law now, huh?"

The photographer approached them. "Excuse me, but may I have the bride and groom step up to the podium for the photos? I want to get each individual group as well, and the parents, of course."

After a round of photography with the newlyweds and their guests, Starlight called out to her party. “Okay, every creature, let’s meet up in banquet hall #2 on the third floor for the reception. The hotel will be catering a lunch.”

Starlight’s eyes met Yona and Smolder. “And I’d better not see any dragon peppers or another food fight.”

Some of them chuckled at that and Starlight grinned. The food fight had already become something to look back and laugh at.

“No food fight! Yona promise!”

“And I don’t even have any more peppers, so don’t worry,” Smolder added.

One by one the guests filtered out of the cathedral, hugging and congratulating the newlyweds as they went until only Starlight, Sunburst and Twilight remained. The newlyweds stayed behind for a moment, taking in the beauty of the cathedral and the significance of the occasion.

Finally, Starlight turned to Sunburst with a wide smile. "We did it! We're married!"

Sunburst grinned back at her. "Yes, we are. And it was perfect, just like I told you it would be."

Starlight leaned in for a kiss, but a clearing of the throat behind them stopped her. They turned to see Twilight standing in the doorway with a smile.

"Congratulations, you two," she said, hugging them both.

"Thanks, Twilight," Starlight said, returning the hug.

Twilight gestured toward the exit. "Shall we head to the reception? I hear that Ponylaggio’s food is amazing."

Starlight and Sunburst exchanged a look, their eyes sparkling with excitement. "Lead the way, Twilight," Sunburst said.

With Twilight in the lead, they made their way to the reception hall, eager to continue the celebration with their friends and family.

The Reception

Starlight did a visual check around the banquet hall to be sure all of the guests had arrived and received their food and drinks. Satisfied that they had, she grabbed a microphone and cleared her throat, casting a glance at the curtained-off musical stage in the back corner of the room.

“Attention, everypony!”

The room silenced.

“Sunburst and I want you all to know how much it means that you’re here celebrating this amazing day with us, and thank you for all of the wonderful gifts you’ve brought. I’m sure you’ve noticed the lack of a D.J. or a turntable here. But don’t worry, because we have something even better in store for you. As you all know, this IS Las Pegasus, and Applejack, one of my bridesmares, knows a certain somepony who just happened to be on tour in this fine city and convinced her to provide music for our wedding!”

She paused, letting the suspense sink in.

“So, without further ado, let’s raise the curtain and give a round of applause for our special celebrity guest wedding singer!”

The stage curtain opened to a round of applause that turned into a standing ovation when they saw that the guest in question was a very light-blue earth pony with a curly dark blue mane, wearing a black dress with a see-through skirt.

Sunburst grabbed the microphone and held his hoof towards the stage. “Fillies and gentlecolts, the artist formerly known as Countess Coloratura: Rara!”

“Ra-ra! Ra-ra! Ra-ra!” the crowd chanted.

Rara smiled, basking in the cheers for a moment, then held up a hoof to quiet the crowd. “Thank you, everypony! It’s an honor and a privilege to be asked to sing for this wonderful day. I always enjoy being a part of something more meaningful than just another concert, and it’s a plus that I could catch up with an old friend!”

She winked at Applejack.

“Anyway, I hope you’re all ready to party because this first song is going to blow the roof off!”

The lights dimmed and Rara took her place at her Stallionway piano, her hooves gently brushing the keys to the melody of “Love is in Bloom”, slowly singing the lead-in and holding on “bloom” for a good five seconds before she popped the keys, the colored stage lights came up, and a full orchestra joined in, their silhouettes appearing behind a second curtain.

Sunburst led his bride out on the dance floor, gliding to the power of the song. It was their moment, and a spotlight followed them as they moved with the rhythm, Rara serenading.

It ended with Rara alone again holding the final “for us” on those powerful vocal cords, soft piano notes melding with the dimmed spotlight to create an artistic moment the photographer admired, along with the crowd.

Applause filled the room, then Rara transitioned into a soft, romantic melody. “Alright, this next song is for all you happy couples in attendance. Everypony should be dancing with a partner.”

The singles cleared off the dance floor, leaving room for the couples. Sunburst wrapped a foreleg around Starlight’s back, their eyes locked in a tender, intimate gaze. Starlight leaned in and planted a kiss on his lips before resting her head on his shoulder.

Big Macintosh and Sugar Belle embraced, their bodies swaying with the music. “Isn’t this nice?” Sugar Belle asked. “It’s just like it was at our wedding.”

“Eeyup,” Big Mac said. He sniffed and wiped his eyes.

Shining Armor and Princess Cadence took to the dance floor with a romantic waltz, their steps perfectly timed to the gentle melody.

Yona paired up with Sandbar and Gallus locked claws with Silverstream. Ocellus watched from their table, content as a Changeling to simply take in all the love.

None of this was lost on Smolder, who stood in the corner of the room wearing a blue dress with a long skirt that reached the tops of her feet, her arms crossed against her chest. All her friends were either dancing together or feeding off of the romantic atmosphere. She snorted, averting her eyes away from the mush.

Mush that, just once, she’d like to experience herself. Even if Ember had said that dragons don’t do romance. Why not? Was it so weird for a dragon to want to experience that lovey-dovey feeling? She uncrossed her arms, using a claw to wipe her eye.

Then something grabbed her other claw. Smolder looked down to see Spike, dressed in a tuxedo with his claw latched onto hers. Spike put his free arm across his chest and bowed. “May I have this dance, m’lady?”

Smolder's heart did an unexpected flip in her chest, a warm and gooey sensation spread throughout her stomach. Her cheeks burned a bright shade of red, and she stammered, "Oh—okay. But just as friends, got it? It's not because I like you or anything. ‘Cause dragons don’t dance and do all that romantic junk."

Smolder grabbed Spike’s other claw and the two started off in a slow dance. Though Spike had a height disadvantage, it didn't matter to Smolder at all – they were dancing.

Discord, the only one of Sunburst’s groomscolts who wasn’t with a partner, watched the scene with his arms folded across his chest, casting an aside glance at Twilight. “Oh, what a sickening display of love and romance, wouldn’t you agree? I don’t know whether to shed a tear or vomit.”

A playful grin crossed Smolder’s face. She picked Spike up with surprising strength, spinning him around in a twirl.

“Hey! Not so fast!” Spike protested, his voice a mix of surprise and laughter.

“You only live once!” Smolder laughed.

Starlight laughed too when she saw them, knowing how long Smolder had wanted to let go. Turning back to Sunburst, she decided to do something daring.

“Let's try a spin,” Starlight said.

“Well, if you’re sure…” Sunburst spun her, but Starlight had forgotten about the train of her dress and she slipped, crying out as she spun out of control – right into her father's hooves.

“Count on your father to always be there for you,” Firelight said.

“You know I will,” Starlight replied, breathing a sigh of relief.

“Is it time for the father-daughter dance?”

Starlight smiled at him. “Sure, dad.”

Starlight looked over her shoulder, her eyes meeting Rara’s. Starlight gave her a nod, and Rara nodded back her understanding.

The music shifted to a soft piano melody and Starlight returned her gaze to Firelight as Rara began to sing the words to the classic country song “My Little Filly.”

Wet trails formed on Firelight’s cheeks as he danced and swayed with his daughter, taking in the lyrics of a loving father watching his filly growing into a mare.

“You had this planned, didn’t you?” Firelight asked.

“I sure did.”

Shining Armor brought Flurry Heart out onto the dance floor and dropped down to her level, looking her in the eyes. “Will you dance with me, beautiful young lady?”

Flurry Heart giggled, even if she didn’t understand the meaning of the song. “I’ll dance with you, daddy!”

They joined hooves, Shinning Armor stooped over to accommodate as Flurry did a little twirl. Shining beamed at her. “You’re a pretty good dancer. Did mommy teach you that?”

Flurry nodded and giggled again.

At the climax of the song, Rara sang out the words of the same father giving his daughter’s hoof up in marriage, proud at how far she’d come. At that, Shining scooped Flurry up and held her close. “Never! Not my little filly!”

Firelight’s face tightened and he held Starlight tight in a fatherly embrace.

“I love you, dad,” Starlight whispered in his ear.

“I love you, too, Pumpkin.”

When the song closed out, Flurry gave Shinning a little kiss on the cheek and hugged him around the neck. “I love you, daddy.”

The room burst into applause in appreciation for Rara’s beautiful voice and the father-daughter bonds on display, then Rara spoke into the microphone. “Thank you, every creature! We’ll take a quick break from the music and then we’ll really party!” With that, she stepped behind the curtain.

Discord flashed into existence between Starlight and Sunburst, his tears flowing like a garden sprinkler as he blew his nose into a napkin. “Oh, how touching father-daughter bonds are.” The crying suddenly stopped and a bored look appeared on Discord’s face. “I’m touched, truly.”

Starlight gave Discord a playful shove. “Come on, Discord, lighten up. This is a party!”

“A party?” Discord blew out a raspberry. “If this were a party, I’d be having fun, not ready to go into a diabetic coma from all this sickeningly sweet sentimentality. Your choice of music up until now has been so sappy, and just because our esteemed wedding singer has exhausted her lungs doesn’t mean the music has to stop.”

The Draconequis snapped his fingers. An instant later his silhouette appeared behind the second curtain, much to the confusion of Rara’s ensemble. He talked with them for a moment, then took the stage. “Our beloved guests, allow me and the Rar-orchestra to provide you with something a bit more… lively.”

Starlight gnashed her teeth. Discord, for the love of Equestria, PLEASE don’t embarrass me.

Discord snapped his fingers again, summoning a saxophone into his waiting hands. From the pocket of his tuxedo he pulled out a pair of sunglasses, wiggling his eyebrows before putting them on. “I happen to be quite the musician myself, believe it or not. This is a little number I like to call Chaos Saxophone #2.”

“Huh? What’s he doing?” Sunburst asked his bride.

“You tell me; you’re the one who invited him!”

Discord put the saxophone to his mouth and tapped his foot. At first there was only the crash of cymbals. The string ensemble joined in, repeating a simple riff until Discord belted out the first notes of an energetic, upbeat jazz tune from his sax. The drummers followed suit, complementing the song with a heavy beat.

Starlight watched Discord in perplexity for a moment, then, from the corner of her eye she saw Sunburst tapping his hoof in rhythm with the music.

A smile spread across Starlight’s face as more guests spilled out onto the dance floor, Pinkie Pie leading her Ponyville friends in a groove. Starlight’s hips began to swing as if moving on their own, caught up in the infectious beat. Sunburst smiled and extended his hoof towards her. She accepted and they broke into a tango-style dance, weaving and twirling; never letting the other go. Cadence and Shining armor engaged in a similar jig.

Raising his eagle-like claw while still playing the saxophone with his lion paw, Discord snapped his talons. A burst of sparks flashed from behind the curtain. In the next instant, Rara appeared in the middle of the dance floor. She glanced around, disoriented, and the crowd roared.

Realizing what had happened, Rara broke out into a dance of her own, swinging her head and her hips, showcasing the same talent and energy that had captivated audiences during her time as The Countess. The crowd cheered and stomped along with the music.

Starlight twirled and spun with Sunburst, then released him into Stellar Flare’s waiting hooves.

“Oh, hi there, Mom,” Sunburst said as Stellar locked eyes with him.

“How long has it been since you’ve danced with me, Sunburst?”

Sunburst smiled warmly, a touch of his colthood innocence entering his eyes. "Far too long, Mom. Let's make up for lost time tonight." He gently squeezed her hooves as they began to dance.

The rhythm of the music swept the crowd away with each step, completely lost in the magic of the celebration.

The music died and everypony stomped their hooves in approval of Discord’s performance.

“Encore! Encore!” Pinkie screamed.

“Encore!” the rest of the room echoed.

Discord held up his paw, ordering the crowd to silence. “No, I’m afraid it’s one show a night.”

Ears flattened amidst a chorus of disappointed “awws” and “boos.”

Starlight panted, all boogied out but with the notion that inviting Discord had been a good idea after all. “You-you know Sunburst, all that… all that dancing’s made me hungry.” She pointed her nose towards the cake, still concealed underneath its box.

Sunburst read the cue and smiled. “Attention, every creature! My bride tells me it’s time to reveal the cake. I hope you’ve all saved room, because a very talented baker made it just last night.”

Off to the side, Pinkie raised a foreleg in the air. “It was me~!”

Orange magic surrounded the box and Sunburst lifted it up, revealing a three-tier cake covered in white frosting, accented by intertwining lines of lavender and orange. Tangerine slices had been strategically placed between slices of plum. A plastic bride and groom model, sharing a kiss, topped the cake.

“Pinkie, this is incredible!” Starlight said, marveling at the masterpiece. “It’s almost too good to eat!”

Pinkie Pie beamed with pride as she bounced over to the cake, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Thanks, Starlight! Just wait until you cut it! What are you waiting for? Do it, do it, do it!"

“Allow me,” Discord said. With a snap of his talons he was wearing samurai armor and holding a sheathed katana. “No sooner shall my blade leave its sheath than this cake will be impeccably sliced.”

“Hey, that’s our job!” Starlight said. “And if you even think about using that sword in here I’ll have Trixie turn you into a teacup!”

A small voice by Discord’s side held his stroke as Fluttershy nudged him with her hoof. “Um, Discord, I think we should let the newlyweds cut the cake. And maybe… not swing sharp, deadly weapons around in a crowded space?”

Discord scoffed and the samurai gear vanished. “As you were.”

Sunburst fetched a knife from a nearby table and handed it to Starlight, who eagerly took it with her magic. "Shall we?”

Starlight nodded, her stomach growling as the knife cut through. A sweet, orangey aroma filled her nostrils when the cake parted, revealing the marbled orange and lavender hidden underneath the frosting.

“I used orange and strawberry flavored cake batter! Do you like it?!”

“Like it?” Sunburst asked. “I love it!”

Starlight and Sunburst each grabbed a piece of cake with their magic and fed it into the other’s mouth. A sweet burst of vanilla frosting and spongy orange cake batter danced on Starlight’s tongue as she chewed, followed by a burst of sweet, juicy tangerine. She swallowed, licking her lips as the goodness followed down her throat.

“How is it?!” Pinkie asked with a jubilant smile.

“Pinkie, this is…” Sunburst began.

“Yeeeeeess?”

Starlight and Sunburst grinned at each other.

“This is the best cake in the history of cake!” Starlight shouted. “I can’t believe you made it one night!”

“My sister is very talented,” Maud said.

Pinkie Pie’s eyes sparkled with joy, and she bounced up and down with excitement. “ I knew you’d like it! I put in extra sprinkles and love just for you two!”

Applause filled the room as the onlooking crowd cheered. Starlight basked in the attention for a moment, then called everyone over. “Well, what is everypony waiting for? Come and get it!”

The guests lined up and each of them, even Rara and her orchestra, received a slice of cake from the newlyweds. She and Applejack sat across from each other, reminiscing about their time at Camp Friendship.

Trixie held her forelegs out to her sides in dramatic fashion. “For her next trick, the Great and Powerful Trixie will make this cake… disappear!” With a flourish, she levitated her slice of cake, spun it around in midair and took a huge bite, devouring it with a contented smile.

“Impressive as always, Trixie,” Starlight said with a chuckle.

Firelight sat down next to Stellar with a slice of his own and sighed, a mix of nostalgia and joy in his eyes as he watched his daughter and her new husband snuggled together. “Can you believe it, Stellar? Seems like just yesterday they were playing hide-and-seek together, and now they're married. Kind of makes me feel old.”

Stellar Flare chuckled softly, patting his hoof. “Just wait until the grandfoals get here.”

Firelight’s eyes widened, a hint of panic in his voice. “Gr-grandfoals?!”

Stellar Flare nodded, the realization seeping in. “Yes, that's what I... oh my goodness, Firelight. Grandfoals! We're…old!”

“Prune juice and bingo night, here we come!” Firelight said, half-joking, half-serious.

The two embraced, sharing a moment of laughter and mock despair, their chuckles echoing the bittersweet joy of seeing their children grow up.

Trixie stood up, raising her glass to the air. “Attention, every creature, I’d like to make a toast! To the best friend a mare could ask for. You can accomplish amazing things I could never do, such as getting Discord to wear a tuxedo!”

Laughter erupted at Trixie’s quip. Even Discord chuckled his amusement. “Come now, Trixie, just because I’m the Lord of Chaos doesn’t mean I’m above dressing for a rare occasion.”

“I’d also like to make a toast to many years of a happy marriage. You two deserve it. That being said, I still don’t forgive you for making me go on the High Horse that day.”

Starlight laughed. “You all should have seen it! She was freaking out.”

“Trixie was not freaking out!” Trixie yelled. “She was just… screaming with excitement.”

“You thought you were going to die,” Maud added bluntly.

Trixie turned a shade of red and huffed, “Hey, whose side are you on?”

The guests chuckled, and Starlight raised her glass in return. “To friends who keep us humble and honest, even when we’re screaming for dear life.”

Everypony raised their glasses and echoed, “To friends!”

Starlight leaned over to Sunburst and whispered in his ear with a smile. “This is perfect. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Sunburst squeezed her hoof. “I told you it would be.”

The rest of the day became a blur of laughter, love and dancing. Starlight wanted the festivities to last forever, but a glance at the clock two hours later brought her back to reality. One more time she grabbed the microphone and addressed the crowd.

“Attention, every creature! We just want you to know that we appreciate each and every one of you. Yes, even you, Discord. If we could, we’d keep this party going into next week! Unfortunately, all good things have to come to an end. Sunburst and I are expecting a carriage to take us to the hot air balloon station in half an hour. From there, we’ll fly off to Jamareca for our honeymoon.”

Starlight handed the microphone to Sunburst. “Thank you all so much for helping to make this the best day of our lives!”

The banquet hall erupted into applause, cheers and whistles as Starlight and Sunburst shared one last long, tender kiss.

“It was good to see you again, Sunburst. Have fun on your honeymoon,” Sunset said as she gave him a parting hug.

Starlight rubbed Sunburst’s back. “Oh, I’m sure he will,” she purred.

"It was nice seeing you again, too, Sunset. Take care of yourself in the human world, okay?"

Firelight and Stellar Flare stepped forward, their faces glowing with pride.

Firelight pulled Starlight into a tight embrace. “I’m so proud of you, pumpkin. You’ve grown into an amazing mare and seeing you so happy fills my heart with joy. Just… hold off on having foals for a while, huh? I’m not ready to be called ‘grandpa’ yet!”

Starlight hugged him back, tears welling up in her eyes. “We’ll see what happens. Thank you, Dad. I love you.”

Stellar Flare hugged Sunburst tightly, her voice trembling with emotion. “I’m so proud of you, Sunburst. You’ve found your true love, and I couldn’t be happier for you both. Take care of each other.”

Sunburst nodded, returning the hug. “We will, Mom. Thank you for everything.”

Stellar touched her hoof to Sunburst’s cheek and looked him in the eye. “And don’t wait too long to give your poor mother grandfoals. I want to be able to play with them before I’m too old to get down on their level!”

"Mom's right!" Sunset chipped in. "I want a niece or nephew to spoil!"

Sunburst chuckled, partly out of embarrassment. “One thing at a time, Mom. One thing at a time.”

The newlyweds made their way through a sea of well-wishes, hugs, hoofshakes, and heartfelt congratulations until they came face-to-face with Twilight.

“Don’t worry about the gifts, you two,” Starlight said. “I’ll send them directly to your house myself.”

“Thanks, Twilight,” Starlight said as Twilight gave her the biggest hug of them all. “For everything.”

Starlight and Sunburst took one last look at all the family and friends who’d come to celebrate the occasion with them. “Okay, everypony, we’d better be leaving!”

“We’ll bring back souvenirs and lots of photos!” Sunburst yelled. “Goodbye, everypony!”

The crowd offered one last round of applause as Starlight lifted Sunburst with her magic and carried him out of the hall.

“I thought I was supposed to be carrying you,” Sunburst said.

Starlight giggled. “Not in my world, Sunburst.”

With that, the two grabbed their luggage from their room and made their way to the lobby, where two well-built stallions in tuxedos led them outside to a beautifully ornated carriage. Sunburst climbed in first and helped Starlight up into it. Then they were off, the excitement of the day fading into a quiet tenderness as Starlight and Sunburst sat cuddled together as husband and wife.

In the calm of that carriage, Starlight finally found some room to think. She imagined where she and Sunburst might be in a couple of years, with a filly of their own. There they were, the happy little family, relaxing in the den of their home.

“Luster Dawn,” Starlight said with a little smile.

“Huh? Did you say something, Starlight?” Sunburst asked.

Starlight giggled. “Oh! No, I was just… thinking out loud.”

“About what?”

Starlight flashed a coy smile as she turned her gaze to the window, watching Las Pegasus roll on by. Better to get started on that dream sooner than later, and why not over their Jamareca honeymoon?

“Oh… nothing, Sunburst,” a mix of sweetness and a purr in her voice. Her cheeks warmed. “Nothing at all.”

~FIN