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    "Oh my, oh dear, What to do, what to do..." Fluttershy paced from one side of her little area to the other. The depressed grass under her hooves told tale of her disposition - it was flat as the ground it grew out of. The pegasus had been walking like this for over a half an hour - perhaps longer. Nearby, a white unicorn walked parallel with her every step of the way, attempting to calm the delirious yellow pony.

    A cyan mare stood nearby, alongside a very energetic pink pony. Exchanging glances, Rainbow Dash could tell even though she was bursting with happiness, Pinkie Pie was doing everything she could to keep it under control for their friend. Rarity talked on and on about how the world would be a brighter place after today, and how Fluttershy should simply look forward to what would be happening in just over two hours. "At least think of Applejack, darling. Speaking off." Turning her head a moment, Fluttershy mimicked the action a second later, their eyes trained on the pink and cyan pair. "Shouldn't you two run along and be with her?"

    "Hey, Granny kicked us out, saying it was some Apple family tradition or something, so we came here to see how Fluttershy was doing." Rainbow pointed out, putting a hoof on Pinkie's shoulder. Looking about, the rainbow-maned mare raised an eyebrow. "So what's the big meltdown for?"

    "Rainbow!" Rarity chided, tittering her tongue as she put her dainty hoof on Fluttershy. "Unlike your brash need to take everything head on..." She trailed, catching a look from the pegasus she was touching.

    "I'm sorry. I really shouldn't be worrying much." She squeaked, looking back toward Rainbow Dash.

    "Yeah, you see? Not here two minutes and I've solved all your problems." Rainbow pounded her chest in victory, but it did not impress Rarity in the slightest. Realizing the awkward silence and the cynical glare from the unicorn, the pegasus cleared her throat. "Say, where's Twilight, anyway! She's part of the wedding party."

    Rarity shook her mane a bit. She was about to answer when a brown Earth pony poked his head in a moment, followed by a second, more draconian head on top of him. "Excuse me, don't mean to barge in or anything but I was wondering if any of you ladies have seen a mare named Twilight walking about?" He asked, raising an eyebrow. This earned him a quick tap on the head from the purple dragon perched on his back.

    Rarity groaned, putting a hoof to her face. "Well, I'm fairly certain that if she isn't with you, Whoof, then she very well may be-"

    A pink rush cut her off as it bounced next to Spike and the Doctor. "Ooo! I know, the Library! She lives there, y'know!" She related, looking over toward the unicorn and pegasus pair on the other side of the white tent. "Oh, um." Halting her bounces, she smiled sheepishly. Rarity gave her a disappointed gaze, to which the pink pony responded. "I know, I'll mess up my tuxedo." She murmured, struggling against the constricting clothing. Pinkie had to admit she'd take one of Rarity's dresses anyday. Dash pondered over slightly as she looked at the dressed Earth pony. She gave pause, as if she was forgetting something herself.

    "Well, thank you for that, Pinkie." Whoof muttered a moment, before turning to the girls. "Then it falls on me to go get her. Alright then, Spike, we're off!"

    "Hey hold it, Doc, I wanted Rarity to fix my bow tie." Spike heeded, giving Whoof pause. Leaping off his back, Spike landed hard on the ground, but ignored it, his curtails of his suit lightly brushing to top layer of grass. "H-hey, um, Rarity! I was wondering, you know, if you have the time-"

    Rarity sighed as her horn glowed with the power of magic. "Please, Spike, you know a quick fix like this is well within my limits of time for friends, darling." She smirked, glad for the reprieve she was getting. She loved her friends to death - but sometimes keeping up with all of them was a momentous task all by itself. Spike's bow lifted off his shoulder, the red ribbon draping slightly over him as Rarity smoothed it out and began working on trying it around the dragon's neck.

    Fluttershy looked over the dragon a moment before turning to Whoof, her eyes shrouded in uncertainty. "Doctor, if you um, don't mind. Could you and get Twilight for me? I really would like her to be here." She said, causing Rainbow Dash to snap her attention toward the other pegasus.

    "So, uh, Spike, I'll just leave you here while I go and get Twilight, then?" Whoof wondered aloud. A wind blew past him as a mighty push of feathery wings came between him and the exit, the pegasus giving a smirk.

    "Don't worry about it, Whooves." Dash smirked, padding at the ground as she looked back at the group of ponies. "I'll go get Twilight, you guys stay here. Be back quick as a flash."

    Rarity looked over at the cyan mare as she streaked off, huffing as she put the finishing touches on the gemstone bow tie Spike found himself quite proud of. "Well, at least she realized she forgot her dress." She chided, giving a passing glance to the Doctor, who suddenly found himself without a task. "Ahem, Doctor..."

    "Whoof, Whoof. Not Whoove- I'm sorry what?" Doctor Whoof shot to attention a bit late, but found himself under the collective stares of everypony - and dragon - in the room. "Can I help you with something?" Venturing a guess, perhaps they needed him to be-

    "Out!" Rarity pointed a hoof toward the flap of the tent, trying to keep her composure while the male pony stared at her incredulously. "Really, Whoof, I know you like to be around us mares a bit more than the next stallion, and believe me when I say we like you too, but this is a wedding and more importantly the bride's quarters, so you really have no reason to be in here." Talking a mile a minute in a way that would make Pinkie proud, the designer was now forcefully pushing the colt right out of the tent, the Doctor trying to put in a word in edgewise the entire way out.

    With the Doctor out, Rarity exhaled long and hard. "Huh, yeah, like he had any reason being here, am I right, Rarity?" Spike mentioned, leaning on her flank with a cool elbow.

    The glare she gave him would of frozen Nightmare Moon in mid catch-phrase.

Giving a nervous chuckle, the dragon nodded his head slowly. "R-R-right, I'll go see what Whoof is up to. See you girls later!" He stammered, rushing out the flap behind the brown stallion.

    Fluttershy chuckled lightly as tent lost three of it's occupants, turning over to Pinkie Pie as she did. "Um, Pinkie, if you don't mind, I'd like to talk to Rarity alone for a little while. Would you mind checking on Applejack again? I'm sure whatever they're doing is finished now." Pinkie looked ready to explode, but held back and nodded.

    "Okie-dokey-Loki!" Pinkie took great care to step slowly and deliberately toward the flap, ushering it open softly and letting it slide off her gently, giving the Bride and her Maid of Honor some privacy. Looking back, the pony smiled. "I know two ponies who are in Loooooove~" She giggled and bounced away toward the other pony whose love was shared with Fluttershy. "I hope Rainbow Dash comes back with Twilight quickly." She mused, lifting her jump higher as she soared over Spike and Whoof, who gaped slightly until they realized who it was.

    "That Pinkie Pie - always a wonder." Whoof trailed, chuckling as he turned to his companion. "Now, Spike, what do you suppose we do for the next... Spike?" Whoof raised an eyebrow as the dragon frantically checked his pockets multiple times, looking for Celestia knows what. "What are you doing?"

    Spike started to kick his feet as he felt the movement would jostle whatever it was into existence. "The- The Rings! I'm the ring bearer, and I don't have the rings!" He cried, turning his pockets inside out for effect. Leaping off the Doctor's back, Spike put his face near the ground as the crowds moved around them.

    "The rings, Spike?" Whoof echoed.

    "You know, the wedding bands! They go around the left forehoof." Spike raised his left arm and pointed at the dragon equivalent. "And I'm the ring bearer! And I don't have the rings!" Looking about, the dragon gazed over the gathering crowds of ponies. "They could be anywhere!"

    Whoof gave Spike a long, hard look, his eyes trailing all over his features, moving unto the crowd and along the path they came from. He didn't see any hoof sized rings, and if they had left it in the tent, then surely Rarity would of seen the immediately. Ponies crossed his vision, moving all about as they met with friends and family as they came out to the wedding. It was larger than he expected. Someponies with not-so-nice tendencies could of seen golden bands sitting on the ground somewhere and just scooped them up. This was a problem.

    A big problem.

    -----

    Pinkie Pie slowed her bounce as she approached the white tent on the other side of the orchard hill. Both tents were not far from each other - in fact, they lay on either side of the long stretch that made up the aisle. Pinkie slowed slightly, taking in the empty expanse, decorated with white arches and various flowers. Apple blossoms rained down in a swift breeze, covering the area in pink and white natural confetti. The pink mare squealed a little in happiness, turning her head around to see the various balloons and decorations that made up the reception area just outside of the main event space. Her tail twitched rapidly, but she ignored the reaction as her mane became full of the falling petals.

    Catching a moment of deviance, Pinkie snapped a petal out of the air, enjoying the light taste that was reminiscent of the apples that filled the orchard. Sighing contentedly, the mare allowed herself a moment of calm, taking herself down to a simple stride, the tux releasing itself from the various folds that occurred during her nigh relentless bouncing. The petal rain got stuck in her inflated mane, but the pony found nothing wrong with that - and being away from Rarity for a time meant that it was likely to stick there for awhile.

    Sticking her head in the white tent opposite Fluttershy's, the pink mare found herself face to face with a rather dashing Big MacIntosh, his large form looming over her, his mane brushed smooth and, to Pinkie's joy, a light smile on his face. "Heya Big Mac!" The pony beamed up at the stallion as she tried to look around him. "Are the Apples all done in here?"

    "Eeyup." Big Mac nodded, stepping aside to let the pink pony in as she looked about for Applejack. "You'll find AJ beyon' those flaps." He added, gesturing to a second pair of tent flaps that sectioned off the tent, much unlike Fluttershy's open room.

    Walking gently past the colt, Pinkie smirked as a little white bunny hopped right on by. Angel looked fairly simple, a neat black bow around his neck, no little animal tux adorning his features. Although Pinkie had to smile at the inspired choice of two golden ear loops that adorned either ear on his little head. Patting him gently, Pinkie giggled slightly as Angel sighed with customary annoyance, letting the pink mare get her fill. Pinkie let him go before long, the bunny giving a small salute to Big MacIntosh. The mare thanked the stallion quickly, before heading into the next 'room' of the tent.

    "Nahw how am I supposed ta' be a flower girl when it's already rainin' 'em!" A little filly complained, shaking her red mane as little specs of white and pink fell to the ground. "It 'taint fair, 'sis! Nopony's gonna notice my flowers now." Applebloom sighed, kicking at the dirt below as yet another small flap covered the elder pony's vision.

    "Ya mean t'say all our flowers are white 'n red?" Applejack's voice could be heard. Pinkie giggled to herself as she entered the room, listening to the sister's talk.

    Applebloom turned her amber eyes towards the pink mare's direction, her eyes trailing over the multitude of appleblossoms that adorned her mane and tail. "I reckon Pinkie Pie could just shake herself down the aisle and flowers would go everywhere!" She claimed, walking over to the older pony. The pastel yellow pony's brilliant red mane was unmistakable, her normal red bow had been replaced with one that was shining white. Literally shining, as the bow had been custom made with a silvery gleam to them by none other than Rarity. All of the clothes on exhibit during the wedding were made by Ponyville's own fashionista.  Applebloom pushed against Pinkie a bit, the pink mare curious in what she was doing, only to see the slightest movement had jostled a few of the petals off of her. Again, she snapped up the petals as they fell from her mane. The young filly giggled as she pushed against Pinkie again, this time jumping up and chomping at the blossoms as they came near her - taking pains to grab them as they fell instead of snatching the ones that fell on the ground. Pinkie giggled louder, this time grabbing the attention of the other full-grown mare in the room.

    Sticking her head out of small flaps, Applejack caught sight of Pinkie Pie and her little sis, her expression one of exasperation, but melted as she saw the two playing. "Well hey there Pinkie Pie. No news on Twi, I 'spose." Pinkie Pie shook her head. Taking note of the lack of purple in the room, Applejack sighed slightly as she felt her mane pulled backward.

    "Now Applejack, don't you go out there before you're finished with your mane. This is a special day and I want the pictures to last me a good while." A voice called from the small side room as the mare was forcefully pulled behind the curtain. Pinkie giggled as she recognized the voice belonging to Granny Smith, and looked toward Applebloom.

    "So you need flowers that'll POP, right?" Pinkie mentioned idly, putting a hoof to her chin in what looked to be deep thought. Applebloom nodded her head excitedly, expecting a very explosive idea. "Oo! I know! The blue flowers in the Everfree are sure to POP!"

    Applebloom's face fell slightly as she considered the consequences. "I don't think that'll work right, Pinkie Pie. Mah sister's pretty antsy already, and getting the whole weddin' caught up in Poison Joke seems like a bad idea." She muttered, her voice not into denying the plan, enjoying the prospect of another Appleteeny episode.

    Pinkie Pie nodded and put her hoof down. "Plus then we'd need to put Fluttershy in the Tuxedo or nothing would make sense." The mare talking about sense just about broke the filly's mind, but she didn't ponder it for everypony's sake. Pinkie turned about as she realized there was nothing she could do for Applejack in her current situation - probably being fancied up by Granny Smith. The Oranges were present for the wedding, so it was probably a good idea to have Applejack be somewhat more presentable than just her hat and whatever tuxedo she had on. Spinning about, she took stock of her own clothes, guessing that Applejack's own would look similar to hers. As she continued to spin in place, Applebloom ahemed and caught her attention. The flowers! "Oh, um." Pinkie's face contorted to one of serious comprehension as she stared at the petals on the ground. "I dunno." Shrugging her shoulders at the filly, Pinkie knew a trip into town for flowers would take too long.

    "Oooh, this'll never work! I'm going to be a terrible flower pony..." Applebloom sighed, catching a look at her blank flank. "Looks like I'm not gonna get a flower filly cutie mark either." Kicking some dirt, she found herself moving slowly toward the door.

    "Wait!" Pinkie shot up. Going airborne, the mare ended up hitting the top of the tent lightly, disrupting her mane and causing a shower of petals to swirl down below over the little filly below. "I got it! We don't need blue flowers, we need blue petals!" She exclaimed.

    Applebloom stared at the mare, simply nodding to appease her. There was a bit of a disconnect in Pinkie Pie's plan. "An' how're we gonna do that?"

    Pinkie stamped a hoof on the ground, looking proud of herself. "Twilight Sparkle!"

    "I'm here, I'm here." A rushed voice called, entering the back room of the tent. A purple pony with a straight mane, accented with a violet strip of hair, trotted in, parting the tent flaps with a glow of her horn. "Really, Pinkie, I didn't make a noise, how'd you even... nevermind." Letting the subject drop and filing it under 'it's Pinkie Pie', Twilight let her attention be drawn by the other pony in the room.  "Hello, Applebloom."

    "Twilight!" Applebloom cheered, but quickly composed herself. The idea that involved the unicorn belonged to Pinkie, and unfortunately the filly was unaware of the intricities involved. "I'm glad you're here." She forced out, which seemed to placate the purple mare's curiosity.

    "Good to see you too, Applebloom. You must be excited to be a flower filly for your sister's wedding, huh?" Applebloom nodded enthusiastically as the unicorn loosed the curtain and dropped her white saddlebags nearby, unlatching them and revealing her tailored tuxedo. Smirking, she could see the intricate details Rarity had put into it - a mare's tuxedo, what a strange order. "I can't imagine getting into this without magic." Twilight smirked, looking about at Pinkie Pie. "Did Rarity help with yours?"

    "Nope!" Pinkie offered no further explanation as she poked her head out of the tent, seeing Big MacIntosh continued guard over the front room. The curtain protecting them from the onslaught of the floating petals was open slightly, and she could see Spike outside, his face right next to the ground as he looked to be searching everywhere for something. Poking her head back in, she found Twilight was almost completely dressed, fiddling with the bow tie. Apparently, even magic had it's limits. "How. Does. Rarity. Tie. These. Ugh." Her horn ceased it's glow, the bow falling gently upon the saddlebag below. "I give up, I'll have Rarity tie it later. Applejack?"

    Twilight's call caused the pony in the small sectioned off part to stick her head out, a look of reprieve on her features. "Twilight, yer a sight fer sore eyes, Ah tell ya." She felt a tug on her, but she held firm, turning her head slightly. "Please Gran, Twi's here now an' Ah'd like to talk ta her fer a lil' while."

    "Ooooooh.... fine." A sigh was issued before Granny Smith came through the curtain, a simple dress on her features. An interesting note was she was without her walker, and stepping cleanly upon the grass. "Ah, Twilight, good to see you, good to see you." She greeted, the unicorn flashing a small smile toward the grandmotherly mare. "Don't take too long with my Applejack, now." She smirked before passing the other girls, where they could hear her lightly chewing out Big Mac for leaving his fetlocks unshorn.

    "Ah, that's Gran for ya." Applejack muttered, stepping out from the small enclosure. Twilight gave a light gasp at the sight. Decked out in a pure white tuxedo made from a similar material to Applebloom's bow, it had a tinge of blue to compliment her natural orange coat. But what was far more breathtaking was how light her mane seemed. It flowed around her head gently, curving slightly, no longer tied back in a ponytail. The long, flowing blonde hair swayed free from any earthly restriction. Applejack looked between the three ponies whom now stared at her, raising an eyebrow. "What? Y'all look like ya seen an Ursa." She joked, giving a quick look toward her freed mane. "Guess Ah let mah hair grow a bit too much, but Granny said it looks fine."

    "Applejack, you look..." Twilight trailed, hey eyes flowing with the hair, before blinking hard and shaking her mane. Handsome? Beautiful?

    "Fantabulous!" Squeaked Pinkie, hopping up and down on the spot.

    Applebloom strode over to her sister and nuzzled against her. "You look great, sis. Real proper like." Applejack grinned down at her sister, putting her attention on her friends.

    "Amazing." Twilight finished, choosing a good gender-neutral adjective. "Truly amazing."

"That's right nice of y'all ta say. Calms the nerves." Giving a lopsided smile, her eyes trained downward, unexpectedly locking eyes with the large amber orbs below her. She opened her mouth, but was interrupted from a voice in the front room.

    "Hi. Terribly sorry and all that, but I was wondering if you've seen Twilight around? We have a bit of an emergency and-" The Doctor was talking to Big MacIntosh, the three mares in the room sighed slightly.

    "Emergency." Applejack stated flatly. Looking over to the purple mare, she gestured with her head for her friend to check it out. "He's your boyfriend, Twi, you go an' sort it out. An' bring Granny Smith back o'er here 'fore long, would you?" She asked.

    Twilight nodded, a sheepish smile on her features. "Will do Applejack. And... you really do look stunning. I don't think you have anything to be nervous about." It earned her a soft smile in return, and Twilight trotted out the door, intent on seeing this emergency dealt with. Applebloom galloped along behind her, curious about the emergency the Doctor spoke of.

    Exhaling long and hard, the elder Earth ponies were left alone in the tent. "Well, S'far as she knows." She trailed, catching Pinkie's attention. Applejack looked up at her friend, forcing a smile that Pinkie didn't buy for a second.

    "What's wrong, AJ?" The pink mare stressed, taking it slow as she walked over to her friend. "Weddings are happy days. Plus they have big parties afterwards and your whole life with Fluttershy after! Think of how happy it's going to be and your nerves will melt away!" She beamed at her friend, but the orange Earth pony just solemnly nodded her head. Resting her flank next to Applejack, the pink party pony nudged Applejack softly. "Applejack?"

    "'Taint nothin', Pinkie. Jus' some family matters." She muttered, shaking her mane. Pinkie's face contorted into thought, considering just what was to be  meant from that. Applejack caught her look and chuckled despite herself. "Let's just say there are ponies in mah family that... don't take too kindly to this kinda marriage." She swallowed, averting her eyes. "'Taint proper, they said. Said I'm shamin' the family name." Sighing, she didn't expect to feel a hoof fall on her shoulder - in fact, two of them did. Looking up, she saw Big MacIntosh had silently entered the room, and had pulled her in for a hug. In her moment of vulnerability she hadn't expected the large colt to have appeared, but she didn't fight it. Applejack leaned into it, the side of her head nuzzled against her brother's chest.

    "Love ain't nothin' to be ashamed of, AJ, no matter what anypony tells you." He grunted, not letting go of his little sister. "Not even family." He added, and tightened the hug. Applejack just returned it, burying her face in her brother's chest, her cheeks tightened in a smile. Pinkie decided it was time for her to check on the others, leaving the Apple siblings to their moment. Plus she could find out about this emergency.

    "They had more'n a year to say somethin', Big Mac! Why do they have to bring it up on mah weddin' day?" Applejack muttered, her voice cracking slightly. "It's mah day." She whimpered. The big red pony released his sister and raised her chin up with his now free hoof.

    His face was hard, but his eyes held love. "Now you lissen here, AJ. This is your day. It is also that beautiful pegasus' day. And I ain't gonna let nopony say otherwise, ya hear? So you stop frettin' your little head about the Oranges and let me take care'a everythin'." He said, giving his sister a lighter hug. "Enjoy it, Applejack. Ain't no one prouder'a you than me." Standing tall, he coughed slightly, unused to saying so much so quickly. The orange mare sniffed and smiled, nodding as she did. As Mac started to depart, Granny Smith entered as he did, pausing him briefly as she placed a hoof on his side, a silent thank you from his grandmother. "Gran." He greeted as he left the tent proper, looking about.

    -----

    "So Spike is looking for the rings." Twilight muttered, rubbing a hoof on her temple. "Saying he's lost them, no less." She added, earning two nods from her boyfriend. "Doctor, we have to find him."

    Whoof looked about a moment, across the seas of ponies and over the tables and chairs set for the reception. He let himself take idle notice of the brilliant color of the ocean of bodies before him, each one seemingly next to the color that best complimented it. Still, he was brought back down by Twilight, who prodded his flank, snatching his attention. "Hm?! Right, sorry." Giving an ahem, the scientist pushed up his non-existent glasses and stared the unicorn down. "So why are we looking for our little dragon friend when we could be searching for the rings."

    Twilight sighed, rolling her eyes. "Because the rings aren't lost. Spike's the ring bearer but we never gave him the rings." She said simply. Applebloom giggled a bit nearby, finding it a bit cute.

    Doctor Whoof hesitated, averting his eyes as they spun left to right as he considered this. "How do you know that - you just got here." He related, before a soft glow emanated from the unicorn's horn. She raised an eyebrow expectantly as a knowing smile crossed her features, her hooves padding along the ground as she trotted along. "The locater spell! Brilliant!" He applauded, thundering his hooves on the ground as he took off after the purple mare. "So, Twilight, where are they?"

    The pony turned to her date and smirked. "Angel has them - we gave him the rings last night for safe keeping. If there's one thing we can be assured of, it's that he's never far from Fluttershy, and since he's so small he'd notice a weight like the rings falling from his body..."

    Applebloom nodded slowly. "I saw him earlier with the rings in his ears like bit 'ol earrings." She related, thinking back when she was in the tent, just before Pinkie Pie arrived. "I knew he didn't look like he enjoyed them bein' there!"

    "He couldn't really lose them without somepony taking them clean off him, and then he'd come hopping. Fantastic." Whoof agreed, noticing they had found themselves at Fluttershy's tent. "Oh, well... I don't think I'm really allowed in here. You're certain Angel's in here?" He asked, looking about for the not-so-amicable rabbit.

    "I wasn't looking for Angel or the rings, Whoofsey." She teased, taking great delight in the embarrassed reaction Whoof gave her in response to the nickname. Applebloom giggled at his expense as well. It was sickeningly sweet, and Twilight knew it, but it was too entertaining to let slide sometimes. Nuzzling the brown Earth pony, Twilight parted to curtain. "Wait here, I'm sure one of your targets will show up soon. Applebloom, you go out and see if you can track our dragon friend."

    "Cutie Mark Crusader Dragon Patrol! You got it, Twilight!" Applebloom shouted, taking off into the crowd, her small stature aiding her as she swung under the legs of the adults and scurried under tables looking for the wandering dragon.

    Resting his flank, the Doctor seemed a bit beside himself. "When did I become the one to 'wait around'." Sighing, he kept an eye out for a purple dragon or a white rabbit. Bleating, he drummed his hooves in a bored fashion. Looking about, he began to contemplate the best way to eavesdrop against a white tent that wasn't glaringly obvious. Color tended to blend into the outsides of them, so he couldn't keep too close without risk of the very light of the sun itself betraying his presence. There were enough folds in the flaps to make it a non issue, except it would be obvious to anypony outside, and anypony inside would likely run into the colt on their way out. No, it was probably best just to... sit there. And take orders. "How... domestic." He muttered, defeated.

    -----

    "So Spike is running about out there looking for the rings? Oh, but he'll get so dirty!" Rarity sighed, shaking her mane. "Perhaps I rushed him out a bit too quickly, he's so excitable sometimes." Placing a hoof near her chin, she dared not actually touch it, as the floor below was just, well, dirt and grass, much too many things to even contemplate getting close to her pristine white coat. "Still, I suppose it does keep him out of our manes for a little while." A silver lining in everything.

    Twilight smirked and rolled her eyes, but Fluttershy seemed a bit downtrodden by such a remark. "Oh, poor little dragon. Rarity, you mustn't let him keep worrying over it." She asked, hey eyes threatening tears.

    "Darling, please, I'm sure our little scamp is more than capable about such a small thing." Rarity provided, but she relented quickly enough and sighed, looking Fluttershy in the eye. "Fine, if I must! Rainbow Dash-" She started, before looking about. "Now where did that filly get off to, I thought she was right here."

    Twilight shrugged, pointing toward the tent flap. "Might as well check out there. Probably laying in some tree. But, oh! Before you go find Spike, can you help me with my bow tie? I've never read up on proper tying techniques and I kinda frustrated myself earlier." Sheepishly, she presented the length of fabric, in which Rarity soundlessly and almost without looking looped the entire thing around Twilight's neck and had it sitting pristine on her chest in mere moments.

    "Well, if there is one thing in magic I hold over you, dear Twilight, is I'm a bit more dexterous about it. Perhaps you should start taking a few lessons from me." She added coyly, a bit of laughter in her voice as Twilight matched it with a grin. Heading out the door, Twilight found herself alone with Fluttershy, a development she didn't exactly see coming. She could hear the Doctor conversing quickly with Rarity, and two took off to find the dragon together, figuring if he came back to the tent the others would hold him there.

    "Well, today's the big day, huh?" She asked, trying to get some discussion going. She didn't know much in pre-wedding situations, to be certain, but she had some idea.

    "Oh yes, I'm so excited. And. Nervous. Like my cutie mark is going crazy in my stomach." Shrinking down, she gave Twilight a smile. It was a lot more settling than Applejack's earlier display, and the purple mare smiled.

    Looking about, Twilight noted quickly that there was someone missing from the tent that she hadn't seen yet. "Hey Fluttershy, if you don't mind me asking... Where's your mom?"

    The pegasus smiled softly, shaking her mane. "Oh, she's on her way. She's very busy and, um, she's important in Cloudsdale." She nodded, before looking over at Twilight. "Oh, but don't worry, she'll be here in time. Papa, too." She added. Relief flooded over the unicorn as she had realized she never much asked about the parents of her friends - Rarity's lived in Manehatten, and Applejack's... well, they always said they were far off. Probably for Applebloom's sake. "Um, Twilight?"

    Snapped out of her revelry, the unicorn looked up at the pegasus before her. "Yes?"

    "Um, I wanted you to know, that, um. Well, there's somepony who's part of the wedding party, she's someone we've met before but, she looks different." She said.

    "What's her name?"

    "Sunny." She murmured. Twilight's eyes bulged a moment before regaining her composure. "Sunny? As in... well okay then. I didn't think you'd be so bold-"

    Fluttershy smiled, actually giggling a little bit as well. "Well, she's been so friendly to us before, and I needed one more bridlesmaid to even them out since Big MacIntosh is the best man and Applejack wanted you and Pinkie on her side."

    "I'm surprised she didn't want Dash, really." Twilight mentioned idly, a small smile on her lips.

    Fluttershy smiled sheepishly. "Oh, well, she did, but um, I wanted her on mine first." Twilight paused, but nodded in retrospect. The two pegasi did know each other for a long time, all the way back in Cloudsdale, even. In fact, the nature of how they came to Ponyville was something Twilight never thought to ask, but it did interest her. "So, um, if you could find Sunny for me, I'd feel a lot better."

    Twilight nodded, a large smile on her face. "It's no problem at all, Fluttershy. I'm on it on the double." Lifting a hoof up, Twilight paused and hesitated, leaning back. "As soon as somepony else comes. I don't feel right leave the bride-to-be alone in her tent." She smirked, jostling her body around a bit in the tuxedo.

    Twilight talked with Fluttershy for a little while, before Rarity returned with a rather unkempt Spike. Between the two of them, though, they cleaned and pressed the Dragon with a little magical prodding, and he was good as new. As soon as they had, Whoof had entered with Angel in tow, Rainbow Dash carrying the bunny in her hooves as she placed the rebellious rabbit down. Twilight took off with Whoof shortly thereafter to search for the enigmatic Sunny to complete the wedding party.

The final preparations complete, Mayor Mare entered the tent, having already visited with Applejack shortly after Twilight had left her tent. She would be presiding over the ceremony, and asked for the ponies not in the wedding party, which happened to just be Whoof, out of the tent as they rehearsed the wedding. As they discussed, however, it became apparent that they had overlooked a part in the wedding, and he was soon brought in as an usher for the matrons of both parties.

    -----

    It had gone without a hitch, the initial ceremonies. Twilight had paired with Dash down the aisle, and Rarity with Big MacIntosh, the sight of which caused a few murmurs in the crowd. Pinkie ended up walking down with another pony who had a light pink hue on her coat, and a matching pink mane to boot. There was some discussion if this pony was a sister to Pinkie, being of like coloration, but those who knew the Pie's knew better. A friend of Fluttershy's from Cloudsdale, the others imagined, taking note of the pony's wings that adorned her sides.

Still, many ponies didn't pay her as much mind as she might of normally gathered, as in attendance toward the back of the aisle was a familiar regal pony. Dark blue in color and with hair that shone with the paleness of the moon, Luna had come down from Canterlot to view the wedding herself. What most ponies couldn't take account for was her amused smile as the wedding party was assembled at the alter.

    Spike walked along with a mature mare, her coat a deep yellow, her hair a streaming magenta that flowed much like her daughter's mane. Leading the mother of the bride to her seat, it didn't surprise many to see Whoof help out at the last minute to lead Granny Smith to her seat on the 'groom's side'. Looking about, the good Doctor found himself in the awkward position of standing in front of everypony with nowhere to sit himself, but Granny motioned for him to sit next to her, which he gleefully accepted if only to make it look intentional. Behind him Spike walked down the aisle near Applebloom, holding a pillow where the two golden loops rested, freed from the bunny's ears. The flower filly beside him was swaying her head, letting small blue and red rose petals tumble out of the basket she held around her neck. Spike helped grab a few and loosened them from the sides of the basket, allowing all of the petals to be spread along the ground. He smirked as he felt a small magical resistance to them, noting that their colors had been changed via a spell. He gathered that Twilight and Rarity had worked on them moments before the ceremony began. The dragon looked toward his companion, noting that Applebloom couldn't look any happier as she did right then, making a mark at the wedding herself, although sadly not earning one on her flank.

    Vinyl Scratch, talented musician and DJ for the reception, gestured to her friend Octavia, motioning her to start playing with her group of more classical talents. And thus the wedding march started, and all eyes turned to the back of the aisle.

In most circumstances the pony involved under so much attention would of cowered, ran, or fidgeted all the way down the aisle, but right now she held such beauty and grace, not even the slightest movement betrayed her. She stood in her long, flowing wedding dress. Traditionally white, it was adorned with flashes of color, an obvious Rarity original, it made Fluttershy be seen by anyone in the crowd. Her flowing pink mane had been shortened by the white unicorn, clearing her face to the eyes of the crowd, but mostly to Applejack who stood proudly at the other end. Her tail was stylized, a bit more wave to it than normal. Her bangs, too, had been shortened, barely the length of Rainbow's hair, parted neatly to one side. Her brilliant sapphire eyes shown as she came into view, catching sight of the Earth pony who awaited her on the other side.

Along with her was a large stallion that in his heyday would of given Big MacIntosh a run for his money. His pale blue hair screamed of an age gone by, but his gaunt face and powerful frame let everypony know he was still in it for awhile. His white coat couldn't be seen much under his black tuxedo, and he stood in front of everypony as he stoically gave his daughter away as Mayor Mare asked, a gleeful tear running down the face of his daughter as she turned and nuzzled her father, his tough face breaking as he smiled warmly, brushing her mane from her eyes. "Let Daddy see those sparklinh eyes one more time." He said, before gesturing her to go to the pony who awaited her at the alter. "Go on, Fluttershy. Be with her." Breathing deeply, the mare broke from her father one last time, and headed up next to Applejack. The large stallion moved toward his wife and sat next to her in the grass, his smile holding back the tears that threatened to fall. The mare next to him leaned against him, breathing rhythmically as she watched her daughter in the dancing petals.

    -----

    "If there is anypony who feels the union between these two loving ponies should be quelled, speak now, or forever hold your peace." Mayor Mare mentioned. All part of the routine, for her. There was a shuffling among the crowd of ponies, and Applejack felt her heart shoot up into her throat. She waited for it, those prim and proper city ponies that she called her kin. Any second now they would speak up, cause a scene, and ruin her day. She scanned the crowd, looking for them. But something else caught her eye. A pink strand of hair to the corner of her vision, catching her attention. Looking over, those deep aqua blue eyes staring deep into her emerald orbs. Her features softened. Nuzzling her love gently, Applejack felt her nerves calm, and the anxiety melt away as she found herself no longer caring about the neigh-sayers. The only thing important to her, right now and right there, was the pegasus in front of her.

    "Ah love you, Fluttershy." She spoke softly.

    Silence reigned over the crowd, Big Mac holding an uncharacteristic smirk on his features as his eyes locked onto the Manehatten ponies who spoke so little of Applejack's love. He had had words with them, and it was interesting on how such proper and so called powerful ponies could be quelled so easily with a few words. The order of the ceremony continued without hiccup, no one speaking out against their love. A couple of ponies in the audience were a bit noisy for it, a pastel green one with her mate, a dual-colored mane tan-coated mare. They were playfully shushed by some other ponies, who couldn't help but smile at the two.

    -----

    "It's simply dreadful." Mister Orange muttered darkly. "Our Applejack, sweet little Applejack... A filly fooler. This simpleton town mustn't have had the stock to produce a man enough for her." He harrumphed clearly, taking no mind of the ponies around him.

    "Yes, simple to gather why she would go for a mare, seeing that all the men here are... rubes to the rubes." Misses Orange seethed out, turning to an ensemble of their friends they had brought along - without invitation or prior notice, to boot. They chuckled and laughed 'politely' at her joke, taking great pride in her words.

    "Ahem." A voice called from behind. The group turned to find one Big MacIntosh standing behind them, a smaller but formidable caramel colored pony alongside him. "Now, I won't say anything against you city dwellers, 'cause I'm not that kinda pony."

    "MacIntosh, really." Ms. Orange drawled, earning a few chuckles from her entourage. However, a quick stare from the muscular red stallion ended their pips and squeaks quickly. Yet the Oranges weren't through. "We already had our discussion earlier, and as I recall you didn't say anything there, so why come to us now? Because you don't have the entire Apple Family there to stare you down, you big lummox?"

    Caramel stepped forward, but Mac shook his head gently. "I didn't find proper form to speak down a family member in front of kin like that." He said simply. Ms. Orange didn't look too pleased, but he continued. "Now, as I saw it, you were just runnin' some hot air 'cause you gone and missed your chance with AJ a long time ago. I don't see any foals running around you now, either." He added. Caramel chuckled slightly, which the red colt appreciated.

    "Ugh, foals are so loud, MacIntosh, hardly worth the time and energy dealing with them at such a young age. Applejack was just past our point of contention, not that I think you know what that word means, simple Mac." Mr. Orange muttered, earning a chortle from some of the men in the group.

    "I don't think you even know what that means, Mr. Orange." Caramel rolled his eyes, unimpressed with the pomp and 'proper' ponies. Big Mac chuckled, shaking his large frame.

    "See, I'm not here to cause any trouble with you. You're still kin, and I have to respect that." Big Mac paused, leaning close toward his aunt and uncle. "But what you did at the Apple Family meetin'. Well, that wasn't respectful a'tall." His eyes squinted slightly, causing a visible shudder to go down Mister Oranges spine. "I woulda simply let it go, bein' the simple pony that I am. But then I found out your words hurt AJ." He snorted, and steam emanated from his nostrils. "And no one hurts mah sister, understand?" Leaning up, his towering figure seemed infinitely taller than before, and various ponies in the Orange entourage started to falter and move away, no longer wishing to be associated with the two posh ponies.

    "B-b-but she's-" Mr. Orange stammared. Big Mac's eyes became hard as he stared down his uncle.

    "I said. You understand?" The Oranges nodded their heads. "Good. Now, you're gonna attend that weddin'. The weddin' of yer niece." His eyes turned sharply toward Ms. Orange. "Your sister's daughter." He seethed the last bit out. "And yer gonna be on your best behavior. And you know what, you're gonna give them a right good gift, too. I know that they don't have the money for much of a honeymoon - and you're such a rich aunt and uncle. I'm sure you can think of somethin'. Somethin' real respectful."

    -----

    Big Mac sniffed slightly, listening to the vows from both mares. His sister's words were short, but powerful, and Fluttershy's were full of feeling, straight from her heart. In front of a crowd so large, many of them strangers hailing from the Apple family, he knew whatever the pegasus felt for his sister was purer than newfoals laugh. And that was all he could ever want for his sister.

    A breeze picked up, sending the petals from the apple trees over the congregation and the alter, where Pinkie and Dash simultaneously snapped up a couple petals as they flew by, much to the delight of all those who caught the act, their friends included. Even Applebloom tried to catch a few, but failed, stamping her hoof lightly in reaction to her lack of skill in catching flying snacks. It was picturesque, the light smell of sweet apples covering the orchards, the high afternoon sun sparkling overhead, giving it's blessing as the moon's ambassador stood in the back, giving hers.

    "I now pronounce you...um. Oh dear. Umm." Mayor Mare stumbled. In all her preparation, she had forgotten to word the end a bit better in this new scenario for Ponyville. Both ponies in the middle of their pronouncement found some humor in it, but to be held up on such a triviality was a little annoying for all involved.

    "Mare and wife, Ma'am." The light pink pony offered, giving the Mayor a knowing look as she nodded.

    Nodding quickly, she smiled and continued. "I pronounce you 'Mare and Wife'. You may now kiss the, uh, kiss each other." Stumbling again, Applejack chuckled a little as she turned to her mate. Her wife. Her... everything, now. Fluttershy returned the look in kind, nuzzling her companion a moment before breathing in deeply.

    They leaned close, touching gently. The pegasus closed her eyes, letting the Earth pony guide her in. Their lips touched gracefully, locking together in a loving embrace, much to the 'aws' and 'D'aws' of the crowd, and the very energetic clapping of one energetic pink pony. Twilight was clapping her hooves together as well, standing on two hind legs a spell before landing on her feet again. Rarity was bawling, tears absolutely ruining her mascara as she cried in what everypony wasn't quite sure was joy, but it was rather entertaining. Rainbow whooped and cheered, her forehoof pumping the sky as she cheered her friends on. Parting, both ponies blushed profusely as the crowd of ponies that had gathered cheered and applauded, the thundering of their hooves causing the the remaining petals on the trees to loosen and trickle into the air, covering the entire area in beautiful leaves and streaks of pink and white. In response to Dash and Pinkie, plenty of ponies snatched up the blossoms as they floated by, taking the taste of light apples with them as the two mares bowed slightly.

    "I now pronounce you, Misses and... Misses Applejack." Mayor Mare finished, having decided that since Applejack was in the tux, she'd be the name delivered. Sighing from the load off her mind, Ponyville's first same-sex wedding came to a close, both ponies practically galloping past the thundering crowds which blessed them with cheers and calls. Tears of happiness streamed from both of them, Fluttershy's wings outstretched and giving a light flap at every gallop, carrying her alongside her wife.

    Looking on, Twilight smiled warmly as the two disappeared into the crowd of ponies, finding herself uncaring that the normal organization that went with weddings was being generally forgotten. The friends in the wedding party chatted as the crowds in the aisle, flanked by two tents, filtered out. Mischievous fillies and colts walked around the sides and out the front near the alter, finding it a much faster way out of the large amounts of ponies. Approaching the light pink pony, Twilight smiled coyly. "Well, I'm glad you could make it out here."

    The light pink pony smiled and nodded. "It's not often a pony actually asks me to be in her wedding, Twilight. And your friends are very dear to me and my sister." Looking about, she giggled slightly. "Not to mention it's nice to be in front of everypony and not be the center of attention." Twilight nodded as well, sighing contentedly.

    "Well, 'Sunny', would you like to join Whoof and I in some cake and discussion before you and Luna have to go?" She asked, offering the mare some additional time away from her duties.

    "It'd be my honor, Twilight." Sunny smiled, the group of friends moving out and around the tents, avoiding the crowds - much like the mischievous foals. They laughed and joked as they found their table, meeting up with Luna along the way. Applejack and Fluttershy joined them, the party continuing a short time before the two wedded ponies decided they had some things to do before they were off for their honeymoon.

    "It's tha strangest thing. One moment mah Aunt 'n Uncle are against us, and the next they're offerin' us their home fer the week in Manehatten." Applejack laughed, a tear holding firm behind her eye.

    "We really didn't have anything planned for afterwards, this all happened so quickly." Fluttershy added. "It's really kind of them to offer something so selflessly."

    The big red pony who had accompanied them thus far chuckled slightly. Applejack raised an eyebrow, as if asking him what was so funny. "Well, the Oranges are rather rich ponies, they probably thought it was a good idea to go on some cruise or somethin'. A right good idea." Big Mac finished, winking slightly toward his sister. She gave him a knowing smile before pushing against his shoulder playfully.

    Applebloom spoke with 'Sunny' for quite some time after that, as Spike, Luna, and Doctor Whoof discussed things over a bottle of strawberry cordial. Twilight and Rarity stuck with the couple for as long as possible before they took off, leaving them to head to the table with the other three. Pinkie was all over the reception, something seemed to set her off into some mission, the Wonderbolt of the group honestly trying to keep up with her. Between giggles and laughter, Twilight noticed the light pink Pony appear at her side with a small smile on her features. "So what has you so happy?"

    'Sunny' gave a light smile, gesturing dismissively, but her eyes held a more mischievous intent. "Left the little Apple child a moment to speak with her sister...s." She hesitated before adding the second 's', putting in the fact that Fluttershy was now legally Applebloom's sister. "Just a quick parting gift for the wedded couple, when they're ready."

    Twilight raised an eyebrow, looking toward the disappearing figures of the Earth pony and pegasus. "A gift from the Princess? And what would that be?" She asked, legitimately curious. The playful smile never left the ponies lips, causing a mirthful giggle to erupt from the studious unicorn.

    "Oh, I'm sure you'll find out someday, my faithful student." Celestia informed, taking a sip of the cordial that Spike had poured for her. "Someday soon, maybe." The high afternoon sun radiated off the light pink pony, as she returned to conversation with the rest of the wedding table, enjoying cake, laughter, and friends. Twilight made a quick mental note that today, she needn't write a letter to the princess, instead she would share a laugh in honor of her happy friends, those who would go on and reach the highest magics of friendship.

Description
    "Oh my, oh dear, What to do, what to do..." Fluttershy paced from one side of her little area to the other. The depressed grass under her hooves told tale of her disposition - it was flat as the ground it grew out of. The pegasus had been walking like this for over a half an hour - perhaps longer. Nearby, a white unicorn walked parallel with her every step of the way, attempting to calm the delirious yellow pony.

    A cyan mare stood nearby, alongside a very energetic pink pony. Exchanging glances, Rainbow Dash could tell even though she was bursting with happiness, Pinkie Pie was doing everything she could to keep it under control for their friend. Rarity talked on and on about how the world would be a brighter place after today, and how Fluttershy should simply look forward to what would be happening in just over two hours. "At least think of Applejack, darling. Speaking off." Turning her head a moment, Fluttershy mimicked the action a second later, their eyes trained on the pink and cyan pair. "Shouldn't you two run along and be with her?"

    "Hey, Granny kicked us out, saying it was some Apple family tradition or something, so we came here to see how Fluttershy was doing." Rainbow pointed out, putting a hoof on Pinkie's shoulder. Looking about, the rainbow-maned mare raised an eyebrow. "So what's the big meltdown for?"

    "Rainbow!" Rarity chided, tittering her tongue as she put her dainty hoof on Fluttershy. "Unlike your brash need to take everything head on..." She trailed, catching a look from the pegasus she was touching.

    "I'm sorry. I really shouldn't be worrying much." She squeaked, looking back toward Rainbow Dash.

    "Yeah, you see? Not here two minutes and I've solved all your problems." Rainbow pounded her chest in victory, but it did not impress Rarity in the slightest. Realizing the awkward silence and the cynical glare from the unicorn, the pegasus cleared her throat. "Say, where's Twilight, anyway! She's part of the wedding party."

    Rarity shook her mane a bit. She was about to answer when a brown Earth pony poked his head in a moment, followed by a second, more draconian head on top of him. "Excuse me, don't mean to barge in or anything but I was wondering if any of you ladies have seen a mare named Twilight walking about?" He asked, raising an eyebrow. This earned him a quick tap on the head from the purple dragon perched on his back.

    Rarity groaned, putting a hoof to her face. "Well, I'm fairly certain that if she isn't with you, Whoof, then she very well may be-"

    A pink rush cut her off as it bounced next to Spike and the Doctor. "Ooo! I know, the Library! She lives there, y'know!" She related, looking over toward the unicorn and pegasus pair on the other side of the white tent. "Oh, um." Halting her bounces, she smiled sheepishly. Rarity gave her a disappointed gaze, to which the pink pony responded. "I know, I'll mess up my tuxedo." She murmured, struggling against the constricting clothing. Pinkie had to admit she'd take one of Rarity's dresses anyday. Dash pondered over slightly as she looked at the dressed Earth pony. She gave pause, as if she was forgetting something herself.

    "Well, thank you for that, Pinkie." Whoof muttered a moment, before turning to the girls. "Then it falls on me to go get her. Alright then, Spike, we're off!"

    "Hey hold it, Doc, I wanted Rarity to fix my bow tie." Spike heeded, giving Whoof pause. Leaping off his back, Spike landed hard on the ground, but ignored it, his curtails of his suit lightly brushing to top layer of grass. "H-hey, um, Rarity! I was wondering, you know, if you have the time-"

    Rarity sighed as her horn glowed with the power of magic. "Please, Spike, you know a quick fix like this is well within my limits of time for friends, darling." She smirked, glad for the reprieve she was getting. She loved her friends to death - but sometimes keeping up with all of them was a momentous task all by itself. Spike's bow lifted off his shoulder, the red ribbon draping slightly over him as Rarity smoothed it out and began working on trying it around the dragon's neck.

    Fluttershy looked over the dragon a moment before turning to Whoof, her eyes shrouded in uncertainty. "Doctor, if you um, don't mind. Could you and get Twilight for me? I really would like her to be here." She said, causing Rainbow Dash to snap her attention toward the other pegasus.

    "So, uh, Spike, I'll just leave you here while I go and get Twilight, then?" Whoof wondered aloud. A wind blew past him as a mighty push of feathery wings came between him and the exit, the pegasus giving a smirk.

    "Don't worry about it, Whooves." Dash smirked, padding at the ground as she looked back at the group of ponies. "I'll go get Twilight, you guys stay here. Be back quick as a flash."

    Rarity looked over at the cyan mare as she streaked off, huffing as she put the finishing touches on the gemstone bow tie Spike found himself quite proud of. "Well, at least she realized she forgot her dress." She chided, giving a passing glance to the Doctor, who suddenly found himself without a task. "Ahem, Doctor..."

    "Whoof, Whoof. Not Whoove- I'm sorry what?" Doctor Whoof shot to attention a bit late, but found himself under the collective stares of everypony - and dragon - in the room. "Can I help you with something?" Venturing a guess, perhaps they needed him to be-

    "Out!" Rarity pointed a hoof toward the flap of the tent, trying to keep her composure while the male pony stared at her incredulously. "Really, Whoof, I know you like to be around us mares a bit more than the next stallion, and believe me when I say we like you too, but this is a wedding and more importantly the bride's quarters, so you really have no reason to be in here." Talking a mile a minute in a way that would make Pinkie proud, the designer was now forcefully pushing the colt right out of the tent, the Doctor trying to put in a word in edgewise the entire way out.

    With the Doctor out, Rarity exhaled long and hard. "Huh, yeah, like he had any reason being here, am I right, Rarity?" Spike mentioned, leaning on her flank with a cool elbow.

    The glare she gave him would of frozen Nightmare Moon in mid catch-phrase.

Giving a nervous chuckle, the dragon nodded his head slowly. "R-R-right, I'll go see what Whoof is up to. See you girls later!" He stammered, rushing out the flap behind the brown stallion.

    Fluttershy chuckled lightly as tent lost three of it's occupants, turning over to Pinkie Pie as she did. "Um, Pinkie, if you don't mind, I'd like to talk to Rarity alone for a little while. Would you mind checking on Applejack again? I'm sure whatever they're doing is finished now." Pinkie looked ready to explode, but held back and nodded.

    "Okie-dokey-Loki!" Pinkie took great care to step slowly and deliberately toward the flap, ushering it open softly and letting it slide off her gently, giving the Bride and her Maid of Honor some privacy. Looking back, the pony smiled. "I know two ponies who are in Loooooove~" She giggled and bounced away toward the other pony whose love was shared with Fluttershy. "I hope Rainbow Dash comes back with Twilight quickly." She mused, lifting her jump higher as she soared over Spike and Whoof, who gaped slightly until they realized who it was.

    "That Pinkie Pie - always a wonder." Whoof trailed, chuckling as he turned to his companion. "Now, Spike, what do you suppose we do for the next... Spike?" Whoof raised an eyebrow as the dragon frantically checked his pockets multiple times, looking for Celestia knows what. "What are you doing?"

    Spike started to kick his feet as he felt the movement would jostle whatever it was into existence. "The- The Rings! I'm the ring bearer, and I don't have the rings!" He cried, turning his pockets inside out for effect. Leaping off the Doctor's back, Spike put his face near the ground as the crowds moved around them.

    "The rings, Spike?" Whoof echoed.

    "You know, the wedding bands! They go around the left forehoof." Spike raised his left arm and pointed at the dragon equivalent. "And I'm the ring bearer! And I don't have the rings!" Looking about, the dragon gazed over the gathering crowds of ponies. "They could be anywhere!"

    Whoof gave Spike a long, hard look, his eyes trailing all over his features, moving unto the crowd and along the path they came from. He didn't see any hoof sized rings, and if they had left it in the tent, then surely Rarity would of seen the immediately. Ponies crossed his vision, moving all about as they met with friends and family as they came out to the wedding. It was larger than he expected. Someponies with not-so-nice tendencies could of seen golden bands sitting on the ground somewhere and just scooped them up. This was a problem.

    A big problem.

    -----

    Pinkie Pie slowed her bounce as she approached the white tent on the other side of the orchard hill. Both tents were not far from each other - in fact, they lay on either side of the long stretch that made up the aisle. Pinkie slowed slightly, taking in the empty expanse, decorated with white arches and various flowers. Apple blossoms rained down in a swift breeze, covering the area in pink and white natural confetti. The pink mare squealed a little in happiness, turning her head around to see the various balloons and decorations that made up the reception area just outside of the main event space. Her tail twitched rapidly, but she ignored the reaction as her mane became full of the falling petals.

    Catching a moment of deviance, Pinkie snapped a petal out of the air, enjoying the light taste that was reminiscent of the apples that filled the orchard. Sighing contentedly, the mare allowed herself a moment of calm, taking herself down to a simple stride, the tux releasing itself from the various folds that occurred during her nigh relentless bouncing. The petal rain got stuck in her inflated mane, but the pony found nothing wrong with that - and being away from Rarity for a time meant that it was likely to stick there for awhile.

    Sticking her head in the white tent opposite Fluttershy's, the pink mare found herself face to face with a rather dashing Big MacIntosh, his large form looming over her, his mane brushed smooth and, to Pinkie's joy, a light smile on his face. "Heya Big Mac!" The pony beamed up at the stallion as she tried to look around him. "Are the Apples all done in here?"

    "Eeyup." Big Mac nodded, stepping aside to let the pink pony in as she looked about for Applejack. "You'll find AJ beyon' those flaps." He added, gesturing to a second pair of tent flaps that sectioned off the tent, much unlike Fluttershy's open room.

    Walking gently past the colt, Pinkie smirked as a little white bunny hopped right on by. Angel looked fairly simple, a neat black bow around his neck, no little animal tux adorning his features. Although Pinkie had to smile at the inspired choice of two golden ear loops that adorned either ear on his little head. Patting him gently, Pinkie giggled slightly as Angel sighed with customary annoyance, letting the pink mare get her fill. Pinkie let him go before long, the bunny giving a small salute to Big MacIntosh. The mare thanked the stallion quickly, before heading into the next 'room' of the tent.

    "Nahw how am I supposed ta' be a flower girl when it's already rainin' 'em!" A little filly complained, shaking her red mane as little specs of white and pink fell to the ground. "It 'taint fair, 'sis! Nopony's gonna notice my flowers now." Applebloom sighed, kicking at the dirt below as yet another small flap covered the elder pony's vision.

    "Ya mean t'say all our flowers are white 'n red?" Applejack's voice could be heard. Pinkie giggled to herself as she entered the room, listening to the sister's talk.

    Applebloom turned her amber eyes towards the pink mare's direction, her eyes trailing over the multitude of appleblossoms that adorned her mane and tail. "I reckon Pinkie Pie could just shake herself down the aisle and flowers would go everywhere!" She claimed, walking over to the older pony. The pastel yellow pony's brilliant red mane was unmistakable, her normal red bow had been replaced with one that was shining white. Literally shining, as the bow had been custom made with a silvery gleam to them by none other than Rarity. All of the clothes on exhibit during the wedding were made by Ponyville's own fashionista.  Applebloom pushed against Pinkie a bit, the pink mare curious in what she was doing, only to see the slightest movement had jostled a few of the petals off of her. Again, she snapped up the petals as they fell from her mane. The young filly giggled as she pushed against Pinkie again, this time jumping up and chomping at the blossoms as they came near her - taking pains to grab them as they fell instead of snatching the ones that fell on the ground. Pinkie giggled louder, this time grabbing the attention of the other full-grown mare in the room.

    Sticking her head out of small flaps, Applejack caught sight of Pinkie Pie and her little sis, her expression one of exasperation, but melted as she saw the two playing. "Well hey there Pinkie Pie. No news on Twi, I 'spose." Pinkie Pie shook her head. Taking note of the lack of purple in the room, Applejack sighed slightly as she felt her mane pulled backward.

    "Now Applejack, don't you go out there before you're finished with your mane. This is a special day and I want the pictures to last me a good while." A voice called from the small side room as the mare was forcefully pulled behind the curtain. Pinkie giggled as she recognized the voice belonging to Granny Smith, and looked toward Applebloom.

    "So you need flowers that'll POP, right?" Pinkie mentioned idly, putting a hoof to her chin in what looked to be deep thought. Applebloom nodded her head excitedly, expecting a very explosive idea. "Oo! I know! The blue flowers in the Everfree are sure to POP!"

    Applebloom's face fell slightly as she considered the consequences. "I don't think that'll work right, Pinkie Pie. Mah sister's pretty antsy already, and getting the whole weddin' caught up in Poison Joke seems like a bad idea." She muttered, her voice not into denying the plan, enjoying the prospect of another Appleteeny episode.

    Pinkie Pie nodded and put her hoof down. "Plus then we'd need to put Fluttershy in the Tuxedo or nothing would make sense." The mare talking about sense just about broke the filly's mind, but she didn't ponder it for everypony's sake. Pinkie turned about as she realized there was nothing she could do for Applejack in her current situation - probably being fancied up by Granny Smith. The Oranges were present for the wedding, so it was probably a good idea to have Applejack be somewhat more presentable than just her hat and whatever tuxedo she had on. Spinning about, she took stock of her own clothes, guessing that Applejack's own would look similar to hers. As she continued to spin in place, Applebloom ahemed and caught her attention. The flowers! "Oh, um." Pinkie's face contorted to one of serious comprehension as she stared at the petals on the ground. "I dunno." Shrugging her shoulders at the filly, Pinkie knew a trip into town for flowers would take too long.

    "Oooh, this'll never work! I'm going to be a terrible flower pony..." Applebloom sighed, catching a look at her blank flank. "Looks like I'm not gonna get a flower filly cutie mark either." Kicking some dirt, she found herself moving slowly toward the door.

    "Wait!" Pinkie shot up. Going airborne, the mare ended up hitting the top of the tent lightly, disrupting her mane and causing a shower of petals to swirl down below over the little filly below. "I got it! We don't need blue flowers, we need blue petals!" She exclaimed.

    Applebloom stared at the mare, simply nodding to appease her. There was a bit of a disconnect in Pinkie Pie's plan. "An' how're we gonna do that?"

    Pinkie stamped a hoof on the ground, looking proud of herself. "Twilight Sparkle!"

    "I'm here, I'm here." A rushed voice called, entering the back room of the tent. A purple pony with a straight mane, accented with a violet strip of hair, trotted in, parting the tent flaps with a glow of her horn. "Really, Pinkie, I didn't make a noise, how'd you even... nevermind." Letting the subject drop and filing it under 'it's Pinkie Pie', Twilight let her attention be drawn by the other pony in the room.  "Hello, Applebloom."

    "Twilight!" Applebloom cheered, but quickly composed herself. The idea that involved the unicorn belonged to Pinkie, and unfortunately the filly was unaware of the intricities involved. "I'm glad you're here." She forced out, which seemed to placate the purple mare's curiosity.

    "Good to see you too, Applebloom. You must be excited to be a flower filly for your sister's wedding, huh?" Applebloom nodded enthusiastically as the unicorn loosed the curtain and dropped her white saddlebags nearby, unlatching them and revealing her tailored tuxedo. Smirking, she could see the intricate details Rarity had put into it - a mare's tuxedo, what a strange order. "I can't imagine getting into this without magic." Twilight smirked, looking about at Pinkie Pie. "Did Rarity help with yours?"

    "Nope!" Pinkie offered no further explanation as she poked her head out of the tent, seeing Big MacIntosh continued guard over the front room. The curtain protecting them from the onslaught of the floating petals was open slightly, and she could see Spike outside, his face right next to the ground as he looked to be searching everywhere for something. Poking her head back in, she found Twilight was almost completely dressed, fiddling with the bow tie. Apparently, even magic had it's limits. "How. Does. Rarity. Tie. These. Ugh." Her horn ceased it's glow, the bow falling gently upon the saddlebag below. "I give up, I'll have Rarity tie it later. Applejack?"

    Twilight's call caused the pony in the small sectioned off part to stick her head out, a look of reprieve on her features. "Twilight, yer a sight fer sore eyes, Ah tell ya." She felt a tug on her, but she held firm, turning her head slightly. "Please Gran, Twi's here now an' Ah'd like to talk ta her fer a lil' while."

    "Ooooooh.... fine." A sigh was issued before Granny Smith came through the curtain, a simple dress on her features. An interesting note was she was without her walker, and stepping cleanly upon the grass. "Ah, Twilight, good to see you, good to see you." She greeted, the unicorn flashing a small smile toward the grandmotherly mare. "Don't take too long with my Applejack, now." She smirked before passing the other girls, where they could hear her lightly chewing out Big Mac for leaving his fetlocks unshorn.

    "Ah, that's Gran for ya." Applejack muttered, stepping out from the small enclosure. Twilight gave a light gasp at the sight. Decked out in a pure white tuxedo made from a similar material to Applebloom's bow, it had a tinge of blue to compliment her natural orange coat. But what was far more breathtaking was how light her mane seemed. It flowed around her head gently, curving slightly, no longer tied back in a ponytail. The long, flowing blonde hair swayed free from any earthly restriction. Applejack looked between the three ponies whom now stared at her, raising an eyebrow. "What? Y'all look like ya seen an Ursa." She joked, giving a quick look toward her freed mane. "Guess Ah let mah hair grow a bit too much, but Granny said it looks fine."

    "Applejack, you look..." Twilight trailed, hey eyes flowing with the hair, before blinking hard and shaking her mane. Handsome? Beautiful?

    "Fantabulous!" Squeaked Pinkie, hopping up and down on the spot.

    Applebloom strode over to her sister and nuzzled against her. "You look great, sis. Real proper like." Applejack grinned down at her sister, putting her attention on her friends.

    "Amazing." Twilight finished, choosing a good gender-neutral adjective. "Truly amazing."

"That's right nice of y'all ta say. Calms the nerves." Giving a lopsided smile, her eyes trained downward, unexpectedly locking eyes with the large amber orbs below her. She opened her mouth, but was interrupted from a voice in the front room.

    "Hi. Terribly sorry and all that, but I was wondering if you've seen Twilight around? We have a bit of an emergency and-" The Doctor was talking to Big MacIntosh, the three mares in the room sighed slightly.

    "Emergency." Applejack stated flatly. Looking over to the purple mare, she gestured with her head for her friend to check it out. "He's your boyfriend, Twi, you go an' sort it out. An' bring Granny Smith back o'er here 'fore long, would you?" She asked.

    Twilight nodded, a sheepish smile on her features. "Will do Applejack. And... you really do look stunning. I don't think you have anything to be nervous about." It earned her a soft smile in return, and Twilight trotted out the door, intent on seeing this emergency dealt with. Applebloom galloped along behind her, curious about the emergency the Doctor spoke of.

    Exhaling long and hard, the elder Earth ponies were left alone in the tent. "Well, S'far as she knows." She trailed, catching Pinkie's attention. Applejack looked up at her friend, forcing a smile that Pinkie didn't buy for a second.

    "What's wrong, AJ?" The pink mare stressed, taking it slow as she walked over to her friend. "Weddings are happy days. Plus they have big parties afterwards and your whole life with Fluttershy after! Think of how happy it's going to be and your nerves will melt away!" She beamed at her friend, but the orange Earth pony just solemnly nodded her head. Resting her flank next to Applejack, the pink party pony nudged Applejack softly. "Applejack?"

    "'Taint nothin', Pinkie. Jus' some family matters." She muttered, shaking her mane. Pinkie's face contorted into thought, considering just what was to be  meant from that. Applejack caught her look and chuckled despite herself. "Let's just say there are ponies in mah family that... don't take too kindly to this kinda marriage." She swallowed, averting her eyes. "'Taint proper, they said. Said I'm shamin' the family name." Sighing, she didn't expect to feel a hoof fall on her shoulder - in fact, two of them did. Looking up, she saw Big MacIntosh had silently entered the room, and had pulled her in for a hug. In her moment of vulnerability she hadn't expected the large colt to have appeared, but she didn't fight it. Applejack leaned into it, the side of her head nuzzled against her brother's chest.

    "Love ain't nothin' to be ashamed of, AJ, no matter what anypony tells you." He grunted, not letting go of his little sister. "Not even family." He added, and tightened the hug. Applejack just returned it, burying her face in her brother's chest, her cheeks tightened in a smile. Pinkie decided it was time for her to check on the others, leaving the Apple siblings to their moment. Plus she could find out about this emergency.

    "They had more'n a year to say somethin', Big Mac! Why do they have to bring it up on mah weddin' day?" Applejack muttered, her voice cracking slightly. "It's mah day." She whimpered. The big red pony released his sister and raised her chin up with his now free hoof.

    His face was hard, but his eyes held love. "Now you lissen here, AJ. This is your day. It is also that beautiful pegasus' day. And I ain't gonna let nopony say otherwise, ya hear? So you stop frettin' your little head about the Oranges and let me take care'a everythin'." He said, giving his sister a lighter hug. "Enjoy it, Applejack. Ain't no one prouder'a you than me." Standing tall, he coughed slightly, unused to saying so much so quickly. The orange mare sniffed and smiled, nodding as she did. As Mac started to depart, Granny Smith entered as he did, pausing him briefly as she placed a hoof on his side, a silent thank you from his grandmother. "Gran." He greeted as he left the tent proper, looking about.

    -----

    "So Spike is looking for the rings." Twilight muttered, rubbing a hoof on her temple. "Saying he's lost them, no less." She added, earning two nods from her boyfriend. "Doctor, we have to find him."

    Whoof looked about a moment, across the seas of ponies and over the tables and chairs set for the reception. He let himself take idle notice of the brilliant color of the ocean of bodies before him, each one seemingly next to the color that best complimented it. Still, he was brought back down by Twilight, who prodded his flank, snatching his attention. "Hm?! Right, sorry." Giving an ahem, the scientist pushed up his non-existent glasses and stared the unicorn down. "So why are we looking for our little dragon friend when we could be searching for the rings."

    Twilight sighed, rolling her eyes. "Because the rings aren't lost. Spike's the ring bearer but we never gave him the rings." She said simply. Applebloom giggled a bit nearby, finding it a bit cute.

    Doctor Whoof hesitated, averting his eyes as they spun left to right as he considered this. "How do you know that - you just got here." He related, before a soft glow emanated from the unicorn's horn. She raised an eyebrow expectantly as a knowing smile crossed her features, her hooves padding along the ground as she trotted along. "The locater spell! Brilliant!" He applauded, thundering his hooves on the ground as he took off after the purple mare. "So, Twilight, where are they?"

    The pony turned to her date and smirked. "Angel has them - we gave him the rings last night for safe keeping. If there's one thing we can be assured of, it's that he's never far from Fluttershy, and since he's so small he'd notice a weight like the rings falling from his body..."

    Applebloom nodded slowly. "I saw him earlier with the rings in his ears like bit 'ol earrings." She related, thinking back when she was in the tent, just before Pinkie Pie arrived. "I knew he didn't look like he enjoyed them bein' there!"

    "He couldn't really lose them without somepony taking them clean off him, and then he'd come hopping. Fantastic." Whoof agreed, noticing they had found themselves at Fluttershy's tent. "Oh, well... I don't think I'm really allowed in here. You're certain Angel's in here?" He asked, looking about for the not-so-amicable rabbit.

    "I wasn't looking for Angel or the rings, Whoofsey." She teased, taking great delight in the embarrassed reaction Whoof gave her in response to the nickname. Applebloom giggled at his expense as well. It was sickeningly sweet, and Twilight knew it, but it was too entertaining to let slide sometimes. Nuzzling the brown Earth pony, Twilight parted to curtain. "Wait here, I'm sure one of your targets will show up soon. Applebloom, you go out and see if you can track our dragon friend."

    "Cutie Mark Crusader Dragon Patrol! You got it, Twilight!" Applebloom shouted, taking off into the crowd, her small stature aiding her as she swung under the legs of the adults and scurried under tables looking for the wandering dragon.

    Resting his flank, the Doctor seemed a bit beside himself. "When did I become the one to 'wait around'." Sighing, he kept an eye out for a purple dragon or a white rabbit. Bleating, he drummed his hooves in a bored fashion. Looking about, he began to contemplate the best way to eavesdrop against a white tent that wasn't glaringly obvious. Color tended to blend into the outsides of them, so he couldn't keep too close without risk of the very light of the sun itself betraying his presence. There were enough folds in the flaps to make it a non issue, except it would be obvious to anypony outside, and anypony inside would likely run into the colt on their way out. No, it was probably best just to... sit there. And take orders. "How... domestic." He muttered, defeated.

    -----

    "So Spike is running about out there looking for the rings? Oh, but he'll get so dirty!" Rarity sighed, shaking her mane. "Perhaps I rushed him out a bit too quickly, he's so excitable sometimes." Placing a hoof near her chin, she dared not actually touch it, as the floor below was just, well, dirt and grass, much too many things to even contemplate getting close to her pristine white coat. "Still, I suppose it does keep him out of our manes for a little while." A silver lining in everything.

    Twilight smirked and rolled her eyes, but Fluttershy seemed a bit downtrodden by such a remark. "Oh, poor little dragon. Rarity, you mustn't let him keep worrying over it." She asked, hey eyes threatening tears.

    "Darling, please, I'm sure our little scamp is more than capable about such a small thing." Rarity provided, but she relented quickly enough and sighed, looking Fluttershy in the eye. "Fine, if I must! Rainbow Dash-" She started, before looking about. "Now where did that filly get off to, I thought she was right here."

    Twilight shrugged, pointing toward the tent flap. "Might as well check out there. Probably laying in some tree. But, oh! Before you go find Spike, can you help me with my bow tie? I've never read up on proper tying techniques and I kinda frustrated myself earlier." Sheepishly, she presented the length of fabric, in which Rarity soundlessly and almost without looking looped the entire thing around Twilight's neck and had it sitting pristine on her chest in mere moments.

    "Well, if there is one thing in magic I hold over you, dear Twilight, is I'm a bit more dexterous about it. Perhaps you should start taking a few lessons from me." She added coyly, a bit of laughter in her voice as Twilight matched it with a grin. Heading out the door, Twilight found herself alone with Fluttershy, a development she didn't exactly see coming. She could hear the Doctor conversing quickly with Rarity, and two took off to find the dragon together, figuring if he came back to the tent the others would hold him there.

    "Well, today's the big day, huh?" She asked, trying to get some discussion going. She didn't know much in pre-wedding situations, to be certain, but she had some idea.

    "Oh yes, I'm so excited. And. Nervous. Like my cutie mark is going crazy in my stomach." Shrinking down, she gave Twilight a smile. It was a lot more settling than Applejack's earlier display, and the purple mare smiled.

    Looking about, Twilight noted quickly that there was someone missing from the tent that she hadn't seen yet. "Hey Fluttershy, if you don't mind me asking... Where's your mom?"

    The pegasus smiled softly, shaking her mane. "Oh, she's on her way. She's very busy and, um, she's important in Cloudsdale." She nodded, before looking over at Twilight. "Oh, but don't worry, she'll be here in time. Papa, too." She added. Relief flooded over the unicorn as she had realized she never much asked about the parents of her friends - Rarity's lived in Manehatten, and Applejack's... well, they always said they were far off. Probably for Applebloom's sake. "Um, Twilight?"

    Snapped out of her revelry, the unicorn looked up at the pegasus before her. "Yes?"

    "Um, I wanted you to know, that, um. Well, there's somepony who's part of the wedding party, she's someone we've met before but, she looks different." She said.

    "What's her name?"

    "Sunny." She murmured. Twilight's eyes bulged a moment before regaining her composure. "Sunny? As in... well okay then. I didn't think you'd be so bold-"

    Fluttershy smiled, actually giggling a little bit as well. "Well, she's been so friendly to us before, and I needed one more bridlesmaid to even them out since Big MacIntosh is the best man and Applejack wanted you and Pinkie on her side."

    "I'm surprised she didn't want Dash, really." Twilight mentioned idly, a small smile on her lips.

    Fluttershy smiled sheepishly. "Oh, well, she did, but um, I wanted her on mine first." Twilight paused, but nodded in retrospect. The two pegasi did know each other for a long time, all the way back in Cloudsdale, even. In fact, the nature of how they came to Ponyville was something Twilight never thought to ask, but it did interest her. "So, um, if you could find Sunny for me, I'd feel a lot better."

    Twilight nodded, a large smile on her face. "It's no problem at all, Fluttershy. I'm on it on the double." Lifting a hoof up, Twilight paused and hesitated, leaning back. "As soon as somepony else comes. I don't feel right leave the bride-to-be alone in her tent." She smirked, jostling her body around a bit in the tuxedo.

    Twilight talked with Fluttershy for a little while, before Rarity returned with a rather unkempt Spike. Between the two of them, though, they cleaned and pressed the Dragon with a little magical prodding, and he was good as new. As soon as they had, Whoof had entered with Angel in tow, Rainbow Dash carrying the bunny in her hooves as she placed the rebellious rabbit down. Twilight took off with Whoof shortly thereafter to search for the enigmatic Sunny to complete the wedding party.

The final preparations complete, Mayor Mare entered the tent, having already visited with Applejack shortly after Twilight had left her tent. She would be presiding over the ceremony, and asked for the ponies not in the wedding party, which happened to just be Whoof, out of the tent as they rehearsed the wedding. As they discussed, however, it became apparent that they had overlooked a part in the wedding, and he was soon brought in as an usher for the matrons of both parties.

    -----

    It had gone without a hitch, the initial ceremonies. Twilight had paired with Dash down the aisle, and Rarity with Big MacIntosh, the sight of which caused a few murmurs in the crowd. Pinkie ended up walking down with another pony who had a light pink hue on her coat, and a matching pink mane to boot. There was some discussion if this pony was a sister to Pinkie, being of like coloration, but those who knew the Pie's knew better. A friend of Fluttershy's from Cloudsdale, the others imagined, taking note of the pony's wings that adorned her sides.

Still, many ponies didn't pay her as much mind as she might of normally gathered, as in attendance toward the back of the aisle was a familiar regal pony. Dark blue in color and with hair that shone with the paleness of the moon, Luna had come down from Canterlot to view the wedding herself. What most ponies couldn't take account for was her amused smile as the wedding party was assembled at the alter.

    Spike walked along with a mature mare, her coat a deep yellow, her hair a streaming magenta that flowed much like her daughter's mane. Leading the mother of the bride to her seat, it didn't surprise many to see Whoof help out at the last minute to lead Granny Smith to her seat on the 'groom's side'. Looking about, the good Doctor found himself in the awkward position of standing in front of everypony with nowhere to sit himself, but Granny motioned for him to sit next to her, which he gleefully accepted if only to make it look intentional. Behind him Spike walked down the aisle near Applebloom, holding a pillow where the two golden loops rested, freed from the bunny's ears. The flower filly beside him was swaying her head, letting small blue and red rose petals tumble out of the basket she held around her neck. Spike helped grab a few and loosened them from the sides of the basket, allowing all of the petals to be spread along the ground. He smirked as he felt a small magical resistance to them, noting that their colors had been changed via a spell. He gathered that Twilight and Rarity had worked on them moments before the ceremony began. The dragon looked toward his companion, noting that Applebloom couldn't look any happier as she did right then, making a mark at the wedding herself, although sadly not earning one on her flank.

    Vinyl Scratch, talented musician and DJ for the reception, gestured to her friend Octavia, motioning her to start playing with her group of more classical talents. And thus the wedding march started, and all eyes turned to the back of the aisle.

In most circumstances the pony involved under so much attention would of cowered, ran, or fidgeted all the way down the aisle, but right now she held such beauty and grace, not even the slightest movement betrayed her. She stood in her long, flowing wedding dress. Traditionally white, it was adorned with flashes of color, an obvious Rarity original, it made Fluttershy be seen by anyone in the crowd. Her flowing pink mane had been shortened by the white unicorn, clearing her face to the eyes of the crowd, but mostly to Applejack who stood proudly at the other end. Her tail was stylized, a bit more wave to it than normal. Her bangs, too, had been shortened, barely the length of Rainbow's hair, parted neatly to one side. Her brilliant sapphire eyes shown as she came into view, catching sight of the Earth pony who awaited her on the other side.

Along with her was a large stallion that in his heyday would of given Big MacIntosh a run for his money. His pale blue hair screamed of an age gone by, but his gaunt face and powerful frame let everypony know he was still in it for awhile. His white coat couldn't be seen much under his black tuxedo, and he stood in front of everypony as he stoically gave his daughter away as Mayor Mare asked, a gleeful tear running down the face of his daughter as she turned and nuzzled her father, his tough face breaking as he smiled warmly, brushing her mane from her eyes. "Let Daddy see those sparklinh eyes one more time." He said, before gesturing her to go to the pony who awaited her at the alter. "Go on, Fluttershy. Be with her." Breathing deeply, the mare broke from her father one last time, and headed up next to Applejack. The large stallion moved toward his wife and sat next to her in the grass, his smile holding back the tears that threatened to fall. The mare next to him leaned against him, breathing rhythmically as she watched her daughter in the dancing petals.

    -----

    "If there is anypony who feels the union between these two loving ponies should be quelled, speak now, or forever hold your peace." Mayor Mare mentioned. All part of the routine, for her. There was a shuffling among the crowd of ponies, and Applejack felt her heart shoot up into her throat. She waited for it, those prim and proper city ponies that she called her kin. Any second now they would speak up, cause a scene, and ruin her day. She scanned the crowd, looking for them. But something else caught her eye. A pink strand of hair to the corner of her vision, catching her attention. Looking over, those deep aqua blue eyes staring deep into her emerald orbs. Her features softened. Nuzzling her love gently, Applejack felt her nerves calm, and the anxiety melt away as she found herself no longer caring about the neigh-sayers. The only thing important to her, right now and right there, was the pegasus in front of her.

    "Ah love you, Fluttershy." She spoke softly.

    Silence reigned over the crowd, Big Mac holding an uncharacteristic smirk on his features as his eyes locked onto the Manehatten ponies who spoke so little of Applejack's love. He had had words with them, and it was interesting on how such proper and so called powerful ponies could be quelled so easily with a few words. The order of the ceremony continued without hiccup, no one speaking out against their love. A couple of ponies in the audience were a bit noisy for it, a pastel green one with her mate, a dual-colored mane tan-coated mare. They were playfully shushed by some other ponies, who couldn't help but smile at the two.

    -----

    "It's simply dreadful." Mister Orange muttered darkly. "Our Applejack, sweet little Applejack... A filly fooler. This simpleton town mustn't have had the stock to produce a man enough for her." He harrumphed clearly, taking no mind of the ponies around him.

    "Yes, simple to gather why she would go for a mare, seeing that all the men here are... rubes to the rubes." Misses Orange seethed out, turning to an ensemble of their friends they had brought along - without invitation or prior notice, to boot. They chuckled and laughed 'politely' at her joke, taking great pride in her words.

    "Ahem." A voice called from behind. The group turned to find one Big MacIntosh standing behind them, a smaller but formidable caramel colored pony alongside him. "Now, I won't say anything against you city dwellers, 'cause I'm not that kinda pony."

    "MacIntosh, really." Ms. Orange drawled, earning a few chuckles from her entourage. However, a quick stare from the muscular red stallion ended their pips and squeaks quickly. Yet the Oranges weren't through. "We already had our discussion earlier, and as I recall you didn't say anything there, so why come to us now? Because you don't have the entire Apple Family there to stare you down, you big lummox?"

    Caramel stepped forward, but Mac shook his head gently. "I didn't find proper form to speak down a family member in front of kin like that." He said simply. Ms. Orange didn't look too pleased, but he continued. "Now, as I saw it, you were just runnin' some hot air 'cause you gone and missed your chance with AJ a long time ago. I don't see any foals running around you now, either." He added. Caramel chuckled slightly, which the red colt appreciated.

    "Ugh, foals are so loud, MacIntosh, hardly worth the time and energy dealing with them at such a young age. Applejack was just past our point of contention, not that I think you know what that word means, simple Mac." Mr. Orange muttered, earning a chortle from some of the men in the group.

    "I don't think you even know what that means, Mr. Orange." Caramel rolled his eyes, unimpressed with the pomp and 'proper' ponies. Big Mac chuckled, shaking his large frame.

    "See, I'm not here to cause any trouble with you. You're still kin, and I have to respect that." Big Mac paused, leaning close toward his aunt and uncle. "But what you did at the Apple Family meetin'. Well, that wasn't respectful a'tall." His eyes squinted slightly, causing a visible shudder to go down Mister Oranges spine. "I woulda simply let it go, bein' the simple pony that I am. But then I found out your words hurt AJ." He snorted, and steam emanated from his nostrils. "And no one hurts mah sister, understand?" Leaning up, his towering figure seemed infinitely taller than before, and various ponies in the Orange entourage started to falter and move away, no longer wishing to be associated with the two posh ponies.

    "B-b-but she's-" Mr. Orange stammared. Big Mac's eyes became hard as he stared down his uncle.

    "I said. You understand?" The Oranges nodded their heads. "Good. Now, you're gonna attend that weddin'. The weddin' of yer niece." His eyes turned sharply toward Ms. Orange. "Your sister's daughter." He seethed the last bit out. "And yer gonna be on your best behavior. And you know what, you're gonna give them a right good gift, too. I know that they don't have the money for much of a honeymoon - and you're such a rich aunt and uncle. I'm sure you can think of somethin'. Somethin' real respectful."

    -----

    Big Mac sniffed slightly, listening to the vows from both mares. His sister's words were short, but powerful, and Fluttershy's were full of feeling, straight from her heart. In front of a crowd so large, many of them strangers hailing from the Apple family, he knew whatever the pegasus felt for his sister was purer than newfoals laugh. And that was all he could ever want for his sister.

    A breeze picked up, sending the petals from the apple trees over the congregation and the alter, where Pinkie and Dash simultaneously snapped up a couple petals as they flew by, much to the delight of all those who caught the act, their friends included. Even Applebloom tried to catch a few, but failed, stamping her hoof lightly in reaction to her lack of skill in catching flying snacks. It was picturesque, the light smell of sweet apples covering the orchards, the high afternoon sun sparkling overhead, giving it's blessing as the moon's ambassador stood in the back, giving hers.

    "I now pronounce you...um. Oh dear. Umm." Mayor Mare stumbled. In all her preparation, she had forgotten to word the end a bit better in this new scenario for Ponyville. Both ponies in the middle of their pronouncement found some humor in it, but to be held up on such a triviality was a little annoying for all involved.

    "Mare and wife, Ma'am." The light pink pony offered, giving the Mayor a knowing look as she nodded.

    Nodding quickly, she smiled and continued. "I pronounce you 'Mare and Wife'. You may now kiss the, uh, kiss each other." Stumbling again, Applejack chuckled a little as she turned to her mate. Her wife. Her... everything, now. Fluttershy returned the look in kind, nuzzling her companion a moment before breathing in deeply.

    They leaned close, touching gently. The pegasus closed her eyes, letting the Earth pony guide her in. Their lips touched gracefully, locking together in a loving embrace, much to the 'aws' and 'D'aws' of the crowd, and the very energetic clapping of one energetic pink pony. Twilight was clapping her hooves together as well, standing on two hind legs a spell before landing on her feet again. Rarity was bawling, tears absolutely ruining her mascara as she cried in what everypony wasn't quite sure was joy, but it was rather entertaining. Rainbow whooped and cheered, her forehoof pumping the sky as she cheered her friends on. Parting, both ponies blushed profusely as the crowd of ponies that had gathered cheered and applauded, the thundering of their hooves causing the the remaining petals on the trees to loosen and trickle into the air, covering the entire area in beautiful leaves and streaks of pink and white. In response to Dash and Pinkie, plenty of ponies snatched up the blossoms as they floated by, taking the taste of light apples with them as the two mares bowed slightly.

    "I now pronounce you, Misses and... Misses Applejack." Mayor Mare finished, having decided that since Applejack was in the tux, she'd be the name delivered. Sighing from the load off her mind, Ponyville's first same-sex wedding came to a close, both ponies practically galloping past the thundering crowds which blessed them with cheers and calls. Tears of happiness streamed from both of them, Fluttershy's wings outstretched and giving a light flap at every gallop, carrying her alongside her wife.

    Looking on, Twilight smiled warmly as the two disappeared into the crowd of ponies, finding herself uncaring that the normal organization that went with weddings was being generally forgotten. The friends in the wedding party chatted as the crowds in the aisle, flanked by two tents, filtered out. Mischievous fillies and colts walked around the sides and out the front near the alter, finding it a much faster way out of the large amounts of ponies. Approaching the light pink pony, Twilight smiled coyly. "Well, I'm glad you could make it out here."

    The light pink pony smiled and nodded. "It's not often a pony actually asks me to be in her wedding, Twilight. And your friends are very dear to me and my sister." Looking about, she giggled slightly. "Not to mention it's nice to be in front of everypony and not be the center of attention." Twilight nodded as well, sighing contentedly.

    "Well, 'Sunny', would you like to join Whoof and I in some cake and discussion before you and Luna have to go?" She asked, offering the mare some additional time away from her duties.

    "It'd be my honor, Twilight." Sunny smiled, the group of friends moving out and around the tents, avoiding the crowds - much like the mischievous foals. They laughed and joked as they found their table, meeting up with Luna along the way. Applejack and Fluttershy joined them, the party continuing a short time before the two wedded ponies decided they had some things to do before they were off for their honeymoon.

    "It's tha strangest thing. One moment mah Aunt 'n Uncle are against us, and the next they're offerin' us their home fer the week in Manehatten." Applejack laughed, a tear holding firm behind her eye.

    "We really didn't have anything planned for afterwards, this all happened so quickly." Fluttershy added. "It's really kind of them to offer something so selflessly."

    The big red pony who had accompanied them thus far chuckled slightly. Applejack raised an eyebrow, as if asking him what was so funny. "Well, the Oranges are rather rich ponies, they probably thought it was a good idea to go on some cruise or somethin'. A right good idea." Big Mac finished, winking slightly toward his sister. She gave him a knowing smile before pushing against his shoulder playfully.

    Applebloom spoke with 'Sunny' for quite some time after that, as Spike, Luna, and Doctor Whoof discussed things over a bottle of strawberry cordial. Twilight and Rarity stuck with the couple for as long as possible before they took off, leaving them to head to the table with the other three. Pinkie was all over the reception, something seemed to set her off into some mission, the Wonderbolt of the group honestly trying to keep up with her. Between giggles and laughter, Twilight noticed the light pink Pony appear at her side with a small smile on her features. "So what has you so happy?"

    'Sunny' gave a light smile, gesturing dismissively, but her eyes held a more mischievous intent. "Left the little Apple child a moment to speak with her sister...s." She hesitated before adding the second 's', putting in the fact that Fluttershy was now legally Applebloom's sister. "Just a quick parting gift for the wedded couple, when they're ready."

    Twilight raised an eyebrow, looking toward the disappearing figures of the Earth pony and pegasus. "A gift from the Princess? And what would that be?" She asked, legitimately curious. The playful smile never left the ponies lips, causing a mirthful giggle to erupt from the studious unicorn.

    "Oh, I'm sure you'll find out someday, my faithful student." Celestia informed, taking a sip of the cordial that Spike had poured for her. "Someday soon, maybe." The high afternoon sun radiated off the light pink pony, as she returned to conversation with the rest of the wedding table, enjoying cake, laughter, and friends. Twilight made a quick mental note that today, she needn't write a letter to the princess, instead she would share a laugh in honor of her happy friends, those who would go on and reach the highest magics of friendship.