FSE

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Eight months. I am amazed I have been in Equestria this long. Life here has been simply grand. But today in particular is special. There were several holidays over the course of autumn and winter. Running of the Leaves. Hearth's Warming Eve. Winter Wrap-up. I could go into detail about them, but my attention is being diverted to this evening.

I woke up groggily, feeling the familiar touch of Fluttershy's soft coat against my back. I took a moment to slowly sit up, but my eyes then gazed at the calendar that was hanging on the wall across the room. Even without my glasses, I could clearly make out the red check mark on the day. The 21st of April. Tonight is a night I have been looking forward to since my third day in Equestria.

"The Grand Galloping Gala." I muttered to myself.

I looked over my shoulder, seeing my girlfriend still fast asleep. She is usually awake before I am, leading me to suspect that she was resting up so she could stay awake later than usual since the Grand Galloping Gala extends well into the night and does not even begin until sundown. At least that is what Rarity told me.

I climbed out of bed as quietly as possible to avoid rousing Fluttershy. I then tiptoed over to my clothes and slid on a pair of black shorts, my shoes, and a pair of socks. But as my eyes scanned the six shirts that bore the colors of my six most precious friends, my gaze fell upon the shirt that is as white as Rarity's coat. I would need to wear an undershirt with my robe for the evening, and that purest white might go well with it. That, and it was Rarity who wove that wonderful robe for me in the first place.

Once I was fully clothed and had put on my glasses, I carefully made my way downstairs while trying to not make the stairs creak under my feet. Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, my thoughts turned to Scootaloo. I know I wrote in a previous entry how she sometimes sneaks out of bed and snuggles up with me in my own bed after I have fallen asleep, but she does not necessarily do it every night, as evidenced by the fact that she was not in my bed when I woke up today.

I peaked in the side room where Scootaloo's bed was located, finding the orange and purple pegasus filly still sound asleep. Since this is a weekend, I am letting her sleep in since there is no school today. At least that is one thing Equestria's education system has in common with my world's own.

I was just about to enter the room itself when I heard the clopping of hooves upstairs (very easy to notice considering how much harder hooves are than feet) followed by the faint flapping of wings just before I saw Fluttershy swoop down the stairs while...singing?

"At the gala, at the garden, I'm gonna see them.....all..." She promptly landed and folded her wings, gazing sheepishly at me with a very bright blush on her face.

I chuckled, "Sounds like SOMEPONY is excited about tonight."

Fluttershy averted her eyes as she replied, "Um... Yes, I am. I'm hoping that this time I'll be able to be friends with the animals that roam the private garden that surrounds the area it takes place in."

I cocked my head slightly, "This time? Why? Did something go wrong last time? I know you've attended the Grand Galloping Gala before. And since when do YOU have problems with animals?" During the last eight months, I have marveled at just how easily Fluttershy can approach any animal of any sort. The thought of an animal of any species NOT allowing her to approach it seems completely outlandish to me.

Fluttershy seemed slightly embarrassed as she replied, "I guess the best way to sum it up is... I got too overzealous in trying to get close to them."

I snickered just slightly, knowing just how passionate she can get when it comes to cute animals. "Ouch. I hope you weren't too disheartened by their initial rejection."

Fluttershy bowed her head slightly, squeaking out another line as her blush deepened, "I don't think they'll be looking forward to seeing me again..."

I crossed my arms while averting my eyes in thought. Chances are the animals would remember her and go the extra mile to keep their distance if they saw her again. "Well... What if I went with you? Maybe I could help."

Fluttershy smiled, "I wouldn't get my hopes up too much... But if there is a way, I'd appreciate any advice."

I approached her and stroked her mane, "Well, either way, we'll still have a good time together. Right?"

My girlfriend smiled brightly, "I'm sure we will. Just as long as I'm with you." She began to hover before embracing me gently. I returned the favor by wrapping my arms around her while being mindful of the location of her wings.

Mere seconds after I released my grip on Fluttershy, we both turned to face Scootaloo's room at the sound of a yawn, followed by the light clopping of hooves from a groggy filly. Immediately afterward, Scootaloo entered the room, her mane a bit messier than average.

"Somepony has some bed head to fix." Fluttershy said with a smile.

Scootaloo rubbed her eyes, "Huh? Bed head... Oh. Morning, Fluttershy. Morning, James."

I walked over to my little sister and rubbed her head, ruffling her mane even further. "Morning, sweetheart. Up for some breakfast?"

Scootaloo yawned again, but smiled dreamily immediately afterwards. "I'm up for... Well, I'm just up right now. I don't know if I'm even hungry."

I chuckled, "Well, let's start by getting that bedhead taken care of. Honey, could you please start on some breakfast while I'm sprucing up Scootaloo?"

Fluttershy grinned, "OK, just come on down when you finish up there." While she went into the kitchen, I carried Scootaloo upstairs and into the bathroom.

Once we were in the bathroom, I sat down with Scootaloo in my lap while I reached for a brush. Once I had wet it down, I began to gently stroke her mane with it while trying to style it the way she always had it.

"Are you going to the Grand Galloping Gala this evening, James?" Scootaloo asked, her mane starting to look more like its usual self.

"Yep. Celestia and Luna directly requested that I attend." I replied.

"Um... Does that mean you won't be home until late tonight?" She asked again.

I paused. "Uh... Probably. You need a babysitter?"

She replied, "I was thinking that I could hang with Apple Bloom at Sweet Apple Acres tonight for a sleepover. Big Macintosh and Granny Smith can watch us."

I asked, "I know most grandmas are good with kids, but how will Big Mac handle having two fillies running around?"

Scootaloo grinned, "Oh, don't be fooled. He's actually really good with kids. He's really patient with us."

I smiled, "Then it's a plan. You wanna go over after breakfast?"

Scootaloo grinned, "Sounds good to me!"

I then stood up, "Well, your hair's all fixed now. Let's go see what Fluttershy has whipped up for breakfast."

"I'll race ya!" Scootaloo said as she trotted away from me. There are certainly advantages to being as small as her. Especially when you can weave around everything easily while your adult human playmate has to duck and mind his head at every doorway!

After making my way downstairs while eating Scootaloo's nonexistent dust, I entered the kitchen and found the little filly sitting at the table while Fluttershy was putting the finishing touches on our breakfast. As usual, Scootaloo's wings were buzzing like those of a bee. Come to think of it, is that why she has never been able to fly? Because she flaps her wings in a way that is incompatible with pegasus bodies?

Anyway, Fluttershy had done a great job in terms of variety. Along with scrambled eggs, she had set out pieces of fruit, whole-wheat toast with butter and jam on the side, and a few daisies. Mind you, eating flowers probably would not agree with a human's digestive tract. Regardless, it was certainly tasty to look at and I have always had a taste for whole-wheat toast. "That's quite a variety you have there, Fluttershy."

My girlfriend grinned as she set out rose petal to be used as a topping. "I tried to mix as much color as possible to make everything more appealing."

Scootaloo smiled, "And all the smells are mixing to make a really awesome smell!"

I took my seat with Fluttershy on my left and Scootaloo on my right. "Well then, let's put the source of those smells in our bellies so we can taste the smell with our tongues." I then glanced around, "Did I make any sense with that?" The two of them chuckled in unison.

The three of us engaged in casual conversation as we ate. I enjoyed my toast with strawberry jam and did not forget to top my eggs with ketchup. I did try one of the daisies, but it was fairly flavorless. And the yellow center was particularly unappetizing. Scootaloo and Fluttershy seemed to like them though, so I left the rest to them. The fruit made up for that. I especially liked the orange and apple slices.

There was nothing left on the table by the time we finished eating. Fluttershy belched before covering her mouth, "Excuse me... And oh my, we must've been hungry today."

Scootaloo grinned, "Nah, your cooking's just that tasty!"

I nodded, "Totally agreeing with her on that one, Fluttershy."

Fluttershy giggled before she began to collect up the plates. "I must be getting better. I usually only make food for all the animals." She then faced me and Scootaloo, "While I'm cleaning up in here, could you two please go gather the eggs out back?"

I nodded, "OK, honey. You up for it, Scoot?"

The little filly nodded, "Sure thing, James! Let's go!" As usual, she ran ahead of me while I tried to catch up.

I followed Scootaloo around to the back of the cottage, but noticed that the chickens were not yet out of the coop. "I wonder if Derpy's in there..." I muttered.

"Want me to check?" Scootaloo asked as she hopped the low fence.

"Go right ahead, Scoot." I replied. Scootaloo then trotted up the ramp and into the coop. I waited about five seconds before Scootaloo came trotting out of it with every last chicken following her in a line.

"Heheh, looks like I'm a chick magnet!" Scootaloo spoke with a grinned as she paraded the chickens around the coop. She then paused, "Hey! Maybe that's my special talent!"

I smirked while shaking my head. I know full well that Scootaloo's real talents are all about her skills on a scooter. She looked back at her flank, and then frowned as she saw a cutie mark had not yet appeared. "Darn it... Guess not."

I approached my little sister and rubbed her head. "Don't worry, Scoot. I'm sure you'll find your cutie mark pretty soon."

Scootaloo grinned as I scratched her ear. "Heheh, maybe. Just as long as I'm having fun doing it, it's all cool."

I then kneeled before the entrance to the coop. "Scoot, would you mind getting in there and rolling the eggs out to me?"

She nodded, "OK! Just a sec." She then ran up the ramp and into the coop. "OK, here they come!"

One by one, eggs were rolled down into my hand, which I then placed in a pail. It took less than two minutes for Scootaloo to speak, "I think that's all of them." She then poked her head out at me. "Did you get them all?"

I nodded, "Not an egg scrambled."

Scootaloo trotted by me as I stood up. "Wanna head over to Applejack's place after we take the eggs back?"

"Sounds good to me. Let's go check with Fluttershy first." I replied as I began to follow Scootaloo back around to the front of the house.

Once we were there, we found Fluttershy going about her business feeding the many animals around her home for the morning. I saw her place a bowl near a tree, several birds flying down to it afterwards and plucking moist earthworms from it. "We got the eggs, honey." I spoke as I approached her.

Fluttershy smiled, "Did Scootaloo help?"

I nodded, "She was a pretty big help. I would've had a much harder time reaching the eggs without her."

My feisty little sister grinned, "Aw, it was nothing. I just rolled them to him."

Fluttershy glanced at Scootaloo and nodded, "Thank you, Scootaloo. When I finish up here, would you like us to take you over to Sweet Apple Acres for the night?"

Scootaloo went airborne for about two seconds with her wings buzzing. "You bet! I'll go pack my stuff!" She then trotted up to the front door of the cottage while I followed. I still had to place the eggs in the refrigerator.

Not much later, Fluttershy and I were on our way south while Scootaloo ran on ahead with a pair of saddlebags hanging from her sides. "Seeing her prance about like that never gets old." I muttered.

Fluttershy smiled, "It's even more entertaining when she's with the other Crusaders." I smiled with her.

"Hey, honey? I know the Grand Galloping Gala is held in Canterlot, but just how do we get up there?" I asked, having never actually been there before. It is rather silly, to be honest. Canterlot can be seen from anywhere in Ponyville, yet I have never actually taken the time to figure out how to get up there.

"Well, we went by carriage last time. It's a pretty long walk though. I think this time we'll be taking the train up there. It's a lovely ride with a great view." She replied, reminding me that there is a train line that runs through town. One end of the line goes right into Canterlot, but I am uncertain of where the other end is.

"Do you think we'll be seeing any familiar faces there?" I asked, wondering who else might attend the GGG. That stands for Grand Galloping Gala. I will be using that from time to time to save space and conserve ink.

Fluttershy paused for a moment, apparently thinking, before replying, "I'm not sure. I didn't really spend much time mingling with the other ponies there. Although considering how fruitless my efforts were to get the animals in the garden to like me, I guess I should have..."

"I guess I'll have to wait and see." I retorted. I certainly do not know what to expect at the GGG, but the rest of my friends surely do.

Before long, we reached Sweet Apple Acres. "Apple Bloom, you home?!" Scootaloo called out as we drew near the farmhouse. Or is it a barn? I really cannot say if it is one or the other or even both.

As Scootaloo approached the front door, the top half swung open followed by Applejack sticking her head out and looking around before looking down at Scootaloo. "Howdy there, Scootaloo. Y'all lookin' ta bunk here fer the night?"

Scootaloo's wings began to buzz as she hopped up and down. "I sure am! Is Apple Bloom home?"

Applejack pointed out at the orchard. "She went on ahead ta the clubhouse with Sweetie Belle. They wanted me ta letcha know they're waitin' fer ya."

"Sweet! Thanks, AJ!" Scootaloo replied before running back over to Fluttershy and me. "I'm gonna go hang out with Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle! I'll see you two tomorrow, right?"

Fluttershy nodded with a smile. "That was the plan. You go have a good time and we'll stop by in the morning."

Scootaloo stood upright and gave Fluttershy a hug before doing the same to me. "Awesome. Have a good time at the gala, guys!"

I ruffled her mane playfully, "I'm sure we will. Have a good time, Scoot." We both saw her off as she ran off into the vast apple orchard in search of the Cutie Mark Crusaders' clubhouse.

Once Scootaloo was out of sight, Applejack trotted out of her house and over to us. "Howdy there, lovebirds. Big Macintosh an' Granny Smith are all set fer watchin' the fillies t'night fer ya."

Fluttershy smiled, "I'm glad they were OK with it. Scootaloo can be a bit of a handful at times. I'm just glad Sweetie Belle doesn't have to bunk here too."

Applejack chuckled, "Well, ya know Big Macintosh. Ain't nopony who has as much patience as him."

I then asked, "Well, while we're here, mind if I haul over my daily ten bushels of apples for you?"

Applejack snickered, "I'm afraid yer a bit too early fer that, James. Take a look around ya. Do ya even SEE any apples on the trees?"

I did as I was told, looking at the countless apple trees all over the orchard. Something I noticed right away was that there were no red dots decorating the trees, but there were plenty of white dots. It was then that I realized that there was no way the apple trees could have begun to bear fruit only halfway through spring. It would be a few months before any apples would appear. "I guess I'm jumping the gun. Sorry for asking, AJ."

My farm pony friend grinned, "Think nothin' of it, pardner. Besides, I think y'all did enough durin' autumn. Really helped ya slim down too."

She was right. Over the last eight months, my near daily assistance at Sweet Apple Acres caused me to shed quite a bit of my excess body fat. My body is now around two hundred pounds while my arms have put on a slight bit more muscle. However, this was not without drawbacks. Although my shirts still fit me fine, Rarity had to redo my entire wardrobe since my pants no longer fit me!

"Now that I think about it, are all of your dresses fixed up for the gala yet?" I asked, remembering that I heard they had been damaged somehow during their previous visit.

"Oh, they've been ready for a while now. Rarity worked hard on them to make sure they are ready by the time the gala arrives." Fluttershy replied while looking up at me.

"You bet my dress's ready fer the gala. And I'm gonna bring 'long somethin' a lil' extra special. I just know I'll be rakin' in the bits t'night!" Applejack added with a heaping dose of enthusiasm.

"Huh... Sounds like you've got something figured out for the gala." I spoke, curious of what each of my friends had planned for their second gala visit.

"Yup! Now that I know what them hoity toity ponies in Canterlot like!" She replied again, holding her head higher than usual with a smug smile.

Fluttershy then spoke, "Well, this time we're all staying together, right?"

Applejack nodded, "I'll hang around if I can, but I gotta mind my apple stall until I'm all sold out. Wouldn't want any shoplifters, right?"

Fluttershy retorted, "I honestly can't imagine anypony from Canterlot being a thief. But I guess it might make your customers mad if they want to buy something, but you're not there to sell them anything."

I then asked, "While we're on the subject, when do we leave for the gala?"

Applejack replied, "Well, we gotta get ready first. But that won't happen 'til after lunchtime. It'll take a while fer the train ta pull into Canterlot anyway."

Since it is a Sunday, I did not have to worry about working. This entire day is a free day to me. The only question now is what should I do to pass the time.

Applejack spoke, "Well, if you'll excuse me, I gotta go water the other crops we've got growin' 'round these parts. See y'all later."

Fluttershy and I waved goodbye to our friend as she trotted away. I then looked down at my girlfriend and asked, "Well, any ideas on what we can do to spend the time while waiting for the evening to come?"

She replied, "Well, we can go for a walk in the park." For some reason, Sundays in Ponyville always feel perfect for such an activity. By which I mean it always feels so sleepy around here on those days.

"Sounds good to me. Shall we?" I replied, motioning for Fluttershy to follow me.

"Oh, yes. Lead on." She said with a smile as she began to hover.

Upon entering the park from the north, we found we were not alone. Various other ponies were also visiting the park. I do not know the names of all of them, but ever-recognizable Derpy Hooves was there. She was relaxing on a bench while reading a book as she snacked on a muffin. Banana nut, I presume.

"Should we head to the pond?" Fluttershy asked as she hovered next to me.

"My favorite spot of the whole park." I replied. The two of us then headed towards our favorite spot, not paying much mind to the other ponies we passed.

When we arrived, we found the immediate area around the pond was deserted. A gentle breeze was blowing, causing Fluttershy's mane to billow beautifully in the wind. "Did someone restock the fish food?" I asked, eyeing the bag in the center of the little peninsula jutting out into the pond.

Fluttershy nodded, "I just refilled it yesterday. There's plenty to go around."

"OK. Let's give our fishy friends a treat." I replied while leading her down to the sack and taking a seat beside it. I then reached into the sack, took a small amount from it, and flung it towards the pond. As usual, a few fish leaped out of the water and devoured a few pieces before they could hit the water. I then placed a few pieces on Fluttershy's muzzle. Immediately afterward, she flung them towards the water with a sudden upward jerk of her head. Like before, a few fish intercepted them.

I noticed Fluttershy opening her mouth to say something, but paused as she seemed to notice something. "Angel?"

I turned to my right and noticed a small white rabbit hopping towards us. But when he drew near, I noticed he had an unusually happy smile on his face and never blinked once. "Hey there, Angel. What's up?"

The white rabbit did not seem to pay me any mind as he motioned for Fluttershy to follow him. "Me? Um...OK. I'll be right back, James." Fluttershy spoke before placing a kiss on my cheek. I returned the favor before watching her follow the rabbit into some bushes.

With nothing else to do while waiting for my girlfriend to return, I continued to feed the fish. However, I soon heard a light tap behind me. When I turned to look, I found a peculiar object on the ground. It seemed to be.....a boomerang.

Now, I have never once used a boomerang before. But this did not stop my curiosity. I grabbed the boomerang and stood up before taking a moment to examine it. I then held it in one hand. Since I had no experience in throwing a boomerang in the correct fashion that would allow it to return to me, I did not expect it to fly back towards me. I then pulled my arm back then shot it forward before releasing my grip on the boomerang. It flew quite far, much farther than I expected. Regardless, I turned and walked back towards the sack in front of the pond.

I did not get two steps in before something clonked me in the side of the head. I glanced around rapidly after ducking for a second. Lying by my feet was the same boomerang as before. "Huh... So it DOES come back to you."

I picked the boomerang up and decided to try it again. I threw it hard, watching as it looped around me... Wait, did I just notice a slight sparkling aura around it? Guiding it? Regardless, it looped around me and was on a collision course with my head. Before it could hit me, I ducked it and stood up once it had passed me. I grunted with a smirk, only to have another boomerang bonk me from behind an instant later.

"What the...?!" I spoke in shock, as I was caught off-guard. However, I thought I heard some faint giggling nearby, but thought nothing of it. It certainly did not sound like Fluttershy giggling, and she and I were the only people in the immediate area. I decided then to test the boomerang further and threw it again. Or rather, threw the new one. It looped around and came back for me to hit me in the back of my head.

"Oh, I see what's going on now!" I spoke loudly as I smirked. I ducked the incoming boomerang, and then looked behind me to see another coming. I ducked that one, then another, and finally another. I then reached back and caught the next boomerang before throwing it again. I did the same to the next two in a steady rhythm, then started throwing three more boomer... I mean... All right, what is going on here?!

Immediately after throwing those three boomerangs, I threw a cupcake, a cookie, and then a lollipop with each object falling into the pond before I caught on to what I had just done. "What the... Hey!" I shouted as I realized that I had just thrown three yummy pieces of food to the fishes. But just after that, I got clonked in the back of the head by ANOTHER boomerang.

"Son of a..." I grumbled as I rubbed my head. However, I then noticed the fish starting to snap at the treats I had just thrown into the pond. "Hey! Those are mine!" I tried reaching out to them, but decided to leave them be. I then stood up and glanced around. Before I even knew it, another boomerang began flying around me.

".....OK, now I'm irritated." I muttered as I snatched the boomerang out of the air and...well...let me just say that when you are frustrated enough, you would be surprised how quickly you can dig a hole with your bare hands. After I had dug said hole, I buried the boomerang and then covered it with the freshly dug soil.

"That handles...OW!!!" I yelped as I was hit four times in quick succession by four separate boomerangs from four separate angles. "For the love of god!"

As I glared down at the dropped boomerangs, I heard some faint laughter nearby. I froze, my eyes carefully scanning the area. I was certain I was being watched. Boomerangs do not fly on their own, after all. After not even ten seconds, I saw it. A familiar poofy pink mane just barely peaking above a small cluster of bushes.

I did my best to not react to my discovery. I did not turn my face directly to the bushes, opting to look at it out of the corner of my eye instead. But I had all the proof I needed. Little Pinkie Pie was up to her old tricks. And now it was time to turn the tables on her.

I smirked, picking up the four boomerangs that had just hit me. I then retrieved the four remaining boomerangs that happened to be nearby. I adjusted my grip on them, holding each between two fingers on each hand like shuriken. I then turned and ran towards the bush with my hands hanging low. Once I felt I had come within reach, I shouted, "Returning to sender!"

I hurled the four boomerangs in my left hand first before following up with the four in my right. They flew through the air, each group staying in formation. I am not sure how I got so lucky, but all eight tumbled right into the bushes from both sides.

"What the?! Ow!" I heard a voice yelp. Only I did not recognize it as Pinkie Pie's.

"Oof! How'd he know we were over here?!" I heard another voice speak up. Again, it was not Pinkie Pie.

"Eek! He's got some great aim!" THAT was Pinkie Pie.

Satisfied, I approached the bushes and peaked over them. I was not surprised to find Rainbow Dash with Pinkie Pie, but I was not expecting to find Twilight Sparkle there too. All three ponies were on the ground, the eight boomerangs I had thrown being scattered around them.

"Having fun, girls?" I asked crossing my arms while looking down at them.

The three ponies looked up at me with sheepish expressions. Twilight spoke, "Um... I had nothing to do with this. They just asked me to help with my magic a few times."

Rainbow Dash chuckled while rubbing her head. "Um... I hope we didn't strike a nerve. We tried really hard to make the prank seem like it was all your doing."

Pinkie Pie grinned, "Yeah! We know you don't like being pranked by other ponies, so we thought maybe you wouldn't mind pranking yourself!" But she then frowned with a worried expression, "Did it...work?"

My only response was a laugh. "Yeah, it did work! I never guessed anyone was pulling the strings on that one!" The three of them breathed a huge sigh of relief. I then asked, "Wait a minute... Where'd Fluttershy go anyway?"

I heard a familiar meek voice reply, "I'm right here." Fluttershy was perched on a tree branch right above us. "I saw everything. It looked pretty funny, but... Are you really OK?"

I nodded, "Yeah, I'm good. They didn't really hurt."

Fluttershy flew down to me and nuzzled my face gently. "That's good. I was worried it would've gone too far."

Twilight smiled as she stood up, "Oh, you know we wouldn't do anything to hurt him, Fluttershy. He's our friend. Just like you."

Remembering the date, I asked, "You girls all ready for the Grand Galloping Gala tonight?"

Rainbow Dash nodded, "You bet we are! This one's gonna be the best night ever for sure!"

Pinkie Pie then asked, "I think we'll start to get ready for it in a few hours. Wanna join us for lunch at the café to pass the time?"

Fluttershy smiled, "That sounds lovely. Would you like to tag along, James?"

I nodded, "I'd love to. Lead the way, girls."

Twilight led us away from the bushes, "I'll lead then. Right this way, everypony."

It was around noon by the time we arrived at the café. Sundays are usually slow, so we did not see very many customers. That left us with more than enough tables to choose from. However, Pinkie Pie suddenly stepped forward and started pointing her hoof at them. "Eeny meeny miny mo. Catch a pony by the nose. If it squeaks, let it go. Eeny meeny miny mo!"

Her hoof was pointing at the nearest table. "This one!"

As Pinkie Pie trotted towards it, I asked, "Should we go along with it?"

Twilight grinned, "I don't see why we shouldn't." The rest of us followed and took a seat around the table. The height of the stacks of hay around it still was not high enough for me, so I borrowed a stool from nearby that made things easier for me.

"Does everypony know what they want?" Fluttershy asked while scanning her menu. She was seated next to me on my right while Twilight Sparkle was on my left.

"I'll be getting the OBG pasta with a side salad." I replied. For those who have not guessed, OBG stands for Olive oil, Butter, and Garlic respectively.

Twilight smiled, "I think it's time I try that too. It looks amazing."

One by one, we all spoke our entrees to the waiter once he arrived before watching him enter the café. Once he was gone, I asked, "So, you've all been to the Grand Galloping Gala before?"

Twilight nodded, "We all went once before. It wasn't the best experience, but we're more prepared this time."

I then asked, "Well, when will we be leaving for it?"

Rainbow Dash replied, "We'll be heading out at the train station sometime around 4 pm. It takes over an hour to go up the mountain. Took even longer to go by pony-drawn carriage."

"Can't remember the last time I rode a real train. Is the view nice when going up the mountain?" I asked, expecting the ride to be very enjoyable with an impressive view.

Fluttershy smiled, "Oh, the ride is just lovely. The best part is when you're halfway up the mountain. You can see for miles. You just might even see an eagle fly by."

Pinkie Pie then butted in, "Just make sure you use the bathroom before we go! They have no restrooms on the train!"

"I take it you speak from personal experience." I replied with a smirk.

Pinkie Pie rolled her eyes before replying while smiling sheepishly, "Maaaybe."

I cannot recall what we discussed next, but our entrees and drinks were brought out surprisingly soon. Each of us had ordered a bottle of sarsaparilla, but our entrees varied slightly. Twilight had ordered the same pasta dish I did, Fluttershy ordered a sandwich, Pinkie Pie had ordered a slice of spinach pie, and Rainbow Dash had ordered a heaping bowl of soup.

"Let's dig in, girls! Oh, and James." Rainbow Dash spoke as she began to slurp her soup through a straw. It was a shade of red, leading me to suspect it was tomato-based.

As we ate, Fluttershy asked, "Does Rarity have something special for you to wear tonight, James?"

I replied as I removed the lid from my bottled drink, "Yeah. It's an impressive robe. Have you seen it yet?"

Pinkie Pie spoke, "A robe? I never saw anything like that at Rarity's place."

Twilight smiled, "I saw it once. I can't remember it perfectly, but I remember that I was really impressed by it."

Why is it that only Twilight has seen that robe before? "You haven't seen it yet? But Rarity made it months ago! Was she hiding it?"

Rainbow Dash shrugged her shoulders, "I dunno. Maybe she's keeping it hidden to surprise us when you finally wear it."

Twilight chuckled, "If that's the case, you're all in for a surprise. I only wish I could recall the details on it."

After taking a bite from my pasta, I added, "Be patient. You'll get your chance tonight, girls."

We continued to chat and laugh together while eating our entrees. I suspect we may have forgotten all about our food and was more into enjoying each other's company than paying attention to the flavor in our food. And before I knew it, we were all done.

"So yeah, where was I?" Rainbow Dash spoke after mentioning that she had just recently performed her fifth Sonic Rainboom, which I still have yet to see. But she then looked down at her bowl. "Whoa. Done already? Did we finish all of this in ten seconds flat or what?"

Fluttershy nodded, "I didn't even notice it was gone until just now."

However, Pinkie Pie grinned, "I did! Because I finished it off in one bite!"

I rolled my eyes, "You and that extendable jaw of yours."

Pinkie Pie giggled, "Oh, it's not extendable. I'm just part alligator! Their jaws open reeeally wide!"

Twilight rolled her eyes as well. "That explains your choice in pets. Wait a minute... Seriously? You're part alligator?!"

Pinkie Pie smirked, "Nope! Just messing with you!" The rest of use burst into laughter, but Twilight simply frowned with an irritated expression.

Once we had left the payment on the table, the five of us walked southeast through Ponyville. "Is now a good time for us to stop by the Carousel Boutique to get ready for the gala?" I asked, merely following my companions.

"I think it's about time we visit. It'll take us a while to get ready." Twilight Sparkle replied while looking up at me.

Fluttershy added, "We need to take a lot of steps to make sure we're all ready. This is an event that happens only once a year. And only if you're directly invited."

Rainbow Dash then spoke up, "Yeah. You have to be just as awesome as yours truly to get invited to the Grand Galloping Gala."

Pinkie Pie then jumped, "Ooh, ooh! That means you're totally super awesome, James! You must be to have been referred to directly in that invite a while back!"

I smirked shyly, somewhat flattered by that level of praise. "Oh, come on. I'm nothing special. I'm only human."

The four mares stopped, looked at each other, and then smiled at me in unison. "You're special to us, James." Twilight spoke with her purple eyes gazing up at me.

Rainbow Dash nodded, "Yeah, definitely. I feel so lucky to have an awesome dude like you as a friend."

Pinkie Pie then started hopping up and down in front of me. "Yeah! You're the only human in Equestria! That makes you extra special! And you're our friend, which makes us specialer than most other ponies." She then stopped and looked away from me with a hoof on her chin. "Is that even a real word? Specialer?"

Fluttershy then hovered up to me and looked me in the eye. "You've always been nothing but a good thing to us, James. We love you and we always will."

My girlfriend's words genuinely touched me. I felt a warm fuzzy feeling inside me as well as a subtle urge to shed a tear or two. I reached out and embraced her, the feel of her forelegs embracing me occurring immediately afterward. "I love you too."

Seconds later, Rainbow Dash spoke up. "C'mon, lovebirds. Don't waste time getting all sappy! We've got a gala to prepare for!"

Fluttershy and I promptly released our grips on each and grinned sheepishly. "Oh, yes... Um, sorry about that. Lead on, please." She replied to Rainbow Dash with a slight blush of what I guess was mild embarrassment.

"Yeah, we'll follow." I added. We continued on, Fluttershy constantly staying right beside me.

A short while later, we stood before Rarity's home. But just before either of us could knock, a familiar voice called out behind us. "Howdy, girls! Hey there, James! Y'all getting' ready fer the Grand Gallopin' Gala?"

Each of us turned to face the owner of the voice and found Applejack trotting towards us. "Hey, AJ! Ready to party?" Pinkie Pie asked in a cheery tone.

"I dunno 'bout partyin', but I'm set ta rake in some bits with my new apple recipes." The farm pony replied with a confident grin.

Rainbow Dash spoke, "In that case, I'll have to let the Wonderbolts know! I know Soarin' will want one of your pies again."

Twilight then asked, "Well, since we're all here, how about we go get ready? I know Rarity's eager to get started by now." With a nod, I knocked on Rarity's front door and waited.

Not even ten seconds later, the door opened. "Welcome to... Oh, hello! Are you all prepared to indulge in my personal beauty treatment before the best night of our lives?" Rarity spoke with great enthusiasm upon seeing us.

"You know it, Rarity. And James is here too!" Twilight replied while glancing up at me. I followed-up with a wave and smile.

As soon as she gazed at me, Rarity's eyes twinkled in excitement, "Oh, darling, I can hardly wait to see you in your attire! Please, do come in!" We all entered in a row, although I was careful to mind my head. I did not want a case of déjà vu to happen.

"You all go right ahead, darlings. I need a moment with our guest of honor." Rarity spoke with a smirk. As instructed, the five other mares headed down the hall while Rarity led me upstairs.

"Ooooh, I've been looking forward to this evening for so long, James!" Rarity squealed while I followed her closely.

"Are you really that excited about me wearing that robe, Rarity?" I asked, not used to seeing the elegant refined unicorn mare this excited over anything.

"I most certainly am, James. I can't wait for everypony at the gala to see that masterpiece on one of the finest gentlemen I know!" Rarity replied while looking at me over her shoulder.

"Finest gentlemen? Me? I dunno about that..." I retorted while turning my gaze to the floor to make sure I did not trip while going up the stairs.

"James, darling. You may not have the etiquette of a perfect gentleman, but you have the heart of one. That is what truly matters." She then turned and rested her hoof on my chest, her face now level with my own due to her being on a higher elevation than me. "I have learned to judge ponies...I mean people by how they are on the inside. And you are truly a fine man, James."

I gently placed my hand over Rarity's hoof, taking in her words. "Really...?"

Rarity smiled, "I have a discerning eye, darling. I know a gentleman when I see one. But enough stalling. We need to get you ready for your Canterlot debut!" She began trotting upstairs again, myself trying to keep up.

Just as I thought we were going to enter Rarity's bedroom, she stopped in front of the bathroom. "First thing's first. Make sure you wash up before you put your formal attire on."

I nodded, understanding how Rarity is about cleanliness. "All right then. As for an undershirt, will this one do?" I motioned my hand in front of the white t-shirt I was wearing, Rarity's cutie mark being displayed prominently on the left side of my chest.

I noticed a very faint blush on Rarity's face. "Oh, James... Of all things, you want to wear my colors to the Grand Galloping Gala?"

I smiled, "I can't think of a more fitting way to thank you for that amazing robe."

My former landlord looked up at me with a warm smile, "I am honored you have chosen to 'wear' me with that robe this evening. Now, in you go. I can hardly wait to see you in the entire outfit." Just as she took a few more steps towards the stairs, Rarity looked over her shoulder at me. "You'll find your clothing inside my bedroom. Try not to make a mess, darling."

"Will do, Rarity. See you soon." I replied, watching her move out of sight before I entered the bathroom.

Nothing worth noting occurred while I bathed. But once I got out, I only put my shirt and boxers back on while lugging around my shoes, socks, and shorts. Heh, the three S's. In any case, I moved on to Rarity's bedroom with my spare clothes in my arm.

Once I was inside, I immediately noticed my robe hanging from a stand that just happened to be set up next to the window. With the sunlight shining in, the gold threads woven into the fabric shimmered beautifully. I was literally awestruck at first, walking around the robe for a few minutes just to admire Rarity's unique masterpiece. And it is all mine.

Before I could the robe on, I happened to notice a black pair of pants on a desk nearby with a pair of shiny black boots complete with shiny brass buckles. Rarity certainly had planned ahead to make certain every last part of my attire was made for the evening. I set down my casual clothing on the desk before pulling my socks back on. I then slid on my new pants, then my boots, and finally my robe. Gently, I might add.

Once I was fully clothed, I took a moment to look at myself in the closest full-length mirror. It was a bit short for my size, so I had to hunker over just to see my face. The spread out night sky nebula colorations of the robe really gave me a mysterious allure, and the black leather boots also went quite well with it. My white undershirt could be seen through the crease below my neck, but it did not matter in the long run. I was ready and looked, dare I say, dashing.

After combing my hair and cleaning my glasses only to remember that the lenses repel all dust and grime resulting in them always being spotless, I went downstairs to check on the six mares. But when I knocked on the door into the room they were in, I heard Rarity yelp, "Ah, not yet, James! We're not quite decent!"

However, I then heard Applejack retort, "Uh, Rarity? I'm not one ta repeat myself, but we don't normally wear clothes." This prompted an amused smirk out of me.

Despite Applejack's reminder, Rarity remained right behind the door. "I suppose... Well... James? I do not want to be a bother, but could you please wait for us at the station? I would love for you to see all of us once our preparations are complete. We shouldn't be too much longer."

I replied, "OK then. Take your time. Just make sure you don't miss the train." After checking my pocket to make sure I had my ticket for the GGG in it, I left the Carousel Boutique and made my way to the local train station.

Since I had never used the train station before, I had to ask around for some directions to properly locate it since I had not memorized it due to lack of visits. I also drew a lot of stares, more than likely due to my attire shimmering in the sunlight. I did not mind this level of attention, knowing that they could not possibly be looking at my clothes out of amusement. Rarity does not make her creations look silly.

I found the train station at the northeastern edge of Ponyville. The station itself had little around it, probably to allow for more space to unload cargo. The station was quite small, with no signs of a door to enter aside for one with a sign that read 'Authorized Personnel Only' in the middle.

Minutes later, I noticed the train pulling in from the right. It was a steam locomotive pulling around five or so cars. The locomotive itself was...well... The dominant color was pink, as well as there being some heart-shaped decorations. The windshield at the front was heart-shaped as well. The roofs of the cars were pink, magenta, or a very bright yellow. As far as trains go, it was a little small for me. But what do you expect in a town where the primary inhabitants are ponies that stand less than half as high as me when down on all fours? And with colors like that, is Equestria a female-dominated society? I do not really mind, but seeing all these shades of pink is starting to make me feel a bit uneasy about being a man. Maybe I will just get used to it after spending a full year here.

The doors on each car opened, followed immediately by a few ponies departing from them. Some of them looked familiar, but I could not recall their names. It is not like am I friends with absolutely everyone I meet. Regardless, they all flashed a fleeting glance at me as they passed me before disembarking from the station.

I stood under the overhang just above the ticket counter to stay out of the sun. Right behind me, I heard a man speak, "Can I help you, sir?"

I turned and saw an earth pony stallion on the other side of the glass at the ticket counter. He was wearing the hat and shirt of a railway officer. The attire of said officers tend to vary by country, so use your imagination on what the uniform looked like. I replied to him, "I'm just waiting for the train and my friends to join me. We have tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala tonight."

The ticket clerk grinned, "Whoa, the Grand Galloping Gala?! You're one lucky guy. Who's all going with you?"

Just before I could reply, a voice spoke from behind me, "That'd be us, sugarcube. Sorry if we kept ya waitin', James."

Recognizing the voice as Applejack's, I promptly turned around. "Nah, you didn't keep...me.... Whoa." Standing before me were my six dearest friends, although each of them was now clad in a dress of varying styles.

Rarity smirked as she gave me one of her alluring gazes, "I see someone is blushing. Does our friend like what he's seeing?"

I have already described the appearance of Rarity's dress in a previous entry, so I will not bother repeating it. I will try my best to describe them in order. Twilight's dress seemed to be the simplest in design, but was still stunning nonetheless. It was a dress that somewhat resembled a cape or cloak, being varying shades of blue with many star designs woven in. Some of these stars were affixed to her forelegs above her light blue shoes. They almost seemed to be made of a shiny metal or even glass. And lastly, another star was attached to her right ear like an earring. A fairly basic design, but it suited her so well.

Next was Applejack. Now, I must admit her attire did not seem to be a dress per se, but it was still the most stylish western getup I had ever laid eyes on. She was still wearing a Stetson hat, although I noticed a pair of small red apple patches on the underside of the brim right above her face. I suspect it was a brand new one modified by Rarity herself. Her blond mane and tail had been styled into braids and she was now wearing a pair of stylish boots on just her front hooves. They were mostly a light green with a red and white rim around the tops. Around the ankles, there was a thin leather strap with a red apple brooch. She seemed to be wearing a garment that resembled a brown saddle over her dress, which I should mention was not as long or flowing as the other five. The dress was mostly light green with a white band near the bottom that sported red apple symbols, plus light brown tassels at the bottom. She was also wearing a green collar of sorts on her neck, which was held in place by a red apple brooch. While her attire was certainly not nearly as classy as the others, it was still bursting with country charm without looking rugged.

I think I will describe Pinkie Pie's dress next. I was actually surprised by how good she looked. I was expecting something outlandish and silly, and while it certainly matched her silly personality and addiction to anything sweet, it was still a dress that looked quite stylish. She was wearing pink shoes with little blue and white striped bowties on top. She was wearing an equally colored and striped vest around her shoulders with a big pink bowtie at the base of her neck. The bottom of her dress, which took up quite a bit of space due to her tail holding it up underneath, was the same shade of pink as her mane. Near the bottom was a light blue stripe with pink bows between every dip in the line. On her head rested a hat that was very similar in design to the hat always worn by Mr. Cake, only the coloration differed vastly. The color around the bottom was blue while the top was a pale blue. Attached to the side was a pink bow with a yellow center that brought to mind a flower. At her waistline, three frills connected the dress. One of Pinkie's coat color, then one of her mane color, and lastly the largest being white as vanilla icing with a ring of lollipops and candy corn adorning it. I must hand it to Rarity, she has excellent attention to detail to the point of being able to make embroidering look just like real candy......or is it actually real candy glued on with marshmallow spread? I suppose I could find out the hard way, but best not do anything that might anger Rarity. And come to think of it, was the last time Pinkie Pie wore that dress two years ago during her first visit to the GGG? Then that means... Ick. Who wants stale two-year-old candy? The fact that they were still there means that even Pinkie Pie would never consider eating them. And if even SHE will not eat them, they clearly must be little more than junk that is only good for decoration at this point. But I digress.

I shall describe Rainbow Dash next. Her dress seemed to be a rainbow-striped garment that was cape-like while having cloud-like ruffs around the edges. A golden wreath hung down between her ears while a necklace with what seemed to be a shiny bunch of purple grapes hung from her neck. Of course, I am certain it was a glass replica, as no one in their right mind would wear real fruit with a dress. The design was topped off with a pair of shiny yellow 'sandals' on the forelegs with interweaving strips of fabric. Overall, the design reminded me of an ancient Roman hero. Certainly a design befitting Rainbow Dash's character. What was more, I saw something on her that I never once expected to see. Her mane had been tied into a ponytail. Heh, since when do ponies wear their tails on their heads?

Lastly... Oh my. Fluttershy. Her dress looked as if it had been crafted from nothing more than the fat of the land itself. The long flowing backside of the dress seemed to be composed of long green leaves. A light blue sash hung across the middle of the dress while being adorned the even lighter blue leaf shapes. Near the bottom of the dress was a very thin yellow line with small flowers of varying shades of yellow, white, and blue. Her shoes were just as green as her dress, but a pair of what seemed to be leafy vines was spiraling up her forelegs to her knees. Her dress looked like a tuft of leaves at the area around her neck, which was held in place by a large light blue butterfly-shaped brooch. An earring of identical design, but not identical size, was attached to her left ear. What was more, her mane had been styled into having several curled ends with both bangs being combined into one on one side of her head. Her lovely pink mane was studded with several small flower clips that shared the same colors as the ones on her dress. Fluttershy's attire was one of my favorites, probably with only Rarity's dress beating it out. But what I found curious is that for someone so shy, Fluttershy's dress was showing off quite a bit of skin.... I mean coat. I could even see part of her cutie mark. But then again, forest nymphs are not exactly modest in terms of clothing.

"Just... Wow. You girls are a feast for the eyes." I muttered, simply blown away by these six masterpieces.

Twilight smiled, "Rarity made each of these to perfectly compliment the pony who wears them. Do they suit us well?"

My eyes scanned my companions for about three seconds before I replied, "I'd certainly say so. But now that we're all here... Wait, are we forgetting someone?"

Just before anyone could reply, I heard a distant shout. "Wait for me!" We all turned to look at the end of the station and saw Spike running towards us while wearing a black tuxedo jacket with a red bowtie. "Phew... Sorry if I kept you waiting. I still had some books to sort before I checked the clock. Am I late?"

Rainbow Dash replied, "Nope! We just got here ourselves. That's all eight of us, right?"

To check, each of us pulled out our tickets. Each of the eight slips of paper shimmered like gold in the sunlight. Pinkie Pie grinned, "One, two, three, skip a few, eight! That's all of us!"

Fluttershy then smiled, "I think we should board now. It looks like the passengers from the last trip have already left."

Before we could board, I asked, "Hang on. Is our fare already paid for?"

Rarity nodded, "Princess Celestia has already gone through the liberty of providing us with a prepaid train ride. Do not trouble yourself with it, dear."

Minding my head, I ducked the doorway into the closest train car once the rest of my friends had entered. I heard the conductor call out, the sound of steam being released from the locomotive, and then the sudden jerking of the train car as I began my first commercial train ride in years.

I took a seat by a window, the back of the seat being divided by an artistically designed green glass barrier that dipped low at the center. In a matter of minutes, the train had cleared Ponyville's borders and was now heading north across a vast meadow. "First time out of Ponyville since getting lost in the Everfree Forest." I muttered to myself.

I have long had a deep fascination with trains since my early childhood. And although my passion for them may have diminished as I grew older, they still have an endearing allure. I found myself just enthralled by the scenery zipping by, not really paying any mind to my seven companions as I rested my elbow on the windowsill.

"Wonderful view, is it not?" I heard Rarity speak just behind me.

I turned to look at her and nodded, "Trains have a special place in my life. I was obsessed with them as a kid."

Rarity giggled as she took a seat on the bench opposite to me. She relaxed on it quite comfortably, her forelegs folded on the soft cushion. "They always seem to have such a romantic flair to them."

The two of us continued to watch the scenery go by while hardly saying a word. But as we ended up heading towards the mountain Canterlot sat upon, we passed through a tunnel that had been dug out of the mountainside. In the darkness, I felt something push up against me. I did not pay it any mind, but when we reached the other side of the tunnel and light had filled the train car again, I noticed that Rarity was now on the same bench as me, leaning against me gently as she looked out the window.

"I hope you do not mind me being right here, James." Rarity spoke softly next to me.

I replied, "Um... It's no trouble." I gently placed my hand on Rarity's right hoof as the train curved around the mountain. But as I adjusted my grip slightly, I felt my fingers caress the bracelet she always wore. "You're still wearing this?" I asked.

Rarity glanced down at her hoof, the opals on the silver bracelet shimmering with a prismatic effect. "I wear it every single day. It's one of my most precious possessions." She then whispered happily, "Thank you again for this, James. I will never depart with it."

As she spoke those words, my grip on her hoof tightened slightly. After spending a full eight months in Ponyville, I can safely say that Rarity has become my best friend. I do my best to not put her before my other friends, but she is probably a bit more precious to me than most other ponies. Then again, she was the first pony to actually help me when I came here. I leaned my head against hers slightly and whispered, "Never change, Rarity."

She replied with a whisper of her own. "Never change, James."

As Rarity and I watched the scenery go by, I discovered that the mountain Canterlot is built upon is not just a mountain, but part of a small mountain range. The train curved along the mountain range many times, even crossing a large bridge that even spanned a river with a waterfall tumbling down below it.

As we drew closer, I released that the hulking fortress that is always visible from Ponyville is not actually Canterlot itself, but probably the royal palace where Princess Luna and Princess Celestia reside. It seems to stand at the far edge of Canterlot while the city itself is impossible to see from such a distance. The train crossed a small stone bridge over a small river, a pair of booths on the sides with what seemed to be a pair of pegasus guards donning gold armor while holding spears up in one of their ankle joints that were even taller than they are. They seemed to be nothing more than part of a security checkpoint. I suppose that even Equestria, being the paradise it is, is not entirely without troublemakers.

Regardless, we passed through the checkpoint without incident. I heard the locomotive hiss as steam was released. I then noticed that the sun was in the process of setting, the night not far away. "Wow, how long was that ride?" I asked, having completely lost track of time.

Pinkie Pie did a quick hop, "Yay, it's almost time to PAR TAY!"

Applejack replied with a chuckle, "Easy there, sugarcube. Keep that up and they'll toss ya out."

Perhaps it is just me, but as we departed from the train in single file, I got the impression from watching my friends' movements that if the proper music was playing from somewhere nearby this would make for a good start to a musical scene in a movie or something similar...... Maybe I should not try to wrap my head around that thought too far.

The train station was much spacier than the one in Ponyville. It certainly had plenty of room for an interior, with plenty of arched windows showing it. However, we did not have enough time to go inside and check it out. The Grand Galloping Gala was our destination. "So...this is Canterlot?" I asked, having never set foot in a city literally built into the side of a mountain.

Twilight smiled, "Nice place, isn't it? I used to live here before moving to Ponyville. If we're lucky, you just might see my parents or brother."

I nodded, "Yeah, mayb.... Wait a minute. Brother?" I gave Twilight a bemused stare, "I've known you for eight months and you never told you have a brother?!"

At the mention of this, the rest of our companions turned to face Twilight. "Come ta think of it, we knew ya fer two years before we found out 'bout 'im."

Twilight glanced back and forth at us without ever moving her head. Only her eyes. Her face had turned as red as a tomato before she spoke, "Um... Sorry?"

I cannot recall the last time I saw Twilight look so flustered about anything. Although I must confess that forgetting to mention any of your family members to your friends after knowing them for two full years is a rather embarrassing slip of one's mind. Regardless, I raised my hands and smiled, "Meh, don't worry about it. Let's just get going."

Twilight nervously chuckled, "Eheheh, right..." She led us on; guiding us through the city she knew more of than the rest of us.

One thing I found out about Canterlot right away is its size. It is gigantic. Every last piece of architecture here towers over the buildings in Ponyville. The designs were always elegant with each structure being topped with varying designs of spires. The dominant color of the buildings around me was porcelain white. I also noticed that most of the ponies around us were dressed very elegantly, probably various types of fashion trends popular with the wealthy. I also noticed that the majority of the ponies we passed were unicorns. Nearly all of them had their heads held high. In fact, one pair had their heads tilted so far back; I thought they were looking at something right above them. When I looked up and saw nothing, I realized that they had their eyes closed.

After no more than a few minutes of walking through this magnificent city, I began to find myself longing for Ponyville. Say what you will about me, but although it may be a place I would like to vacation in, I really do not fancy the idea of ever living in Canterlot. The city comes off as being too ritzy and uptight to me. I prefer areas of simplicity and coziness like humble Ponyville. Granted, I do not hate Canterlot, but it is certainly a place I do not want to spend too much time in. That, and the various ponies around me keep giving off a somewhat chilly vibe.

Speaking of those, dare I say, hoity-toity ponies, as soon as one would detect me, he or she would instantly stop and stare. I was getting the exact same reception I got when I set foot in Ponyville for the very first time.

I quickened my pace so as to be closer to my friends in case something went wrong. The feeling of knowing that all of these upper class and probably very judgmental ponies were now gazing at me sent an unpleasant chill through my body. While not as nervous as I was when I first came to Equestria, the attention I was receiving was not enjoyable.

I noticed some of my gawkers were whispering to each other. Had they heard of me? Before they could stare any further, Rarity suddenly stopped in front of me before turning her gaze to several of the staring ponies.

"Don't all you ladies and gentlecolts know it is rude to stare?" She spoke with a defiant tone, turning her gaze up to me. At her words, the ponies around us stopped staring and went on with their business.

I looked down at Rarity, grateful she had shooed the gawkers away. "Thanks, Rarity."

My beloved unicorn companion beamed, "I want your first visit to Canterlot to be as pleasant as possible. Just stay near me and everything will turn out fine."

I continued to follow my companions through the city before we found ourselves looping around what seemed to be a very large and beautifully designed complex structure. Something that large could only be meant for royalty. While I could plainly see an entrance up ahead, it seemed to not be the one we were looking for.

Not much later, with the stars just starting to come out, we found ourselves following a path that led to the very outskirts of the city with the palace just to our right at a fork in the road. Many ponies were going about their business on the grassy lawns while carriages were coming and going that, oddly enough, were being pulled by ponies that seemed to be dressed for the Grand Galloping Gala. What are they, valets pulling carriages in for parking? And why would ponies be pulling carriages that contain other ponies? Then again, I doubt there are any simple workhorses in this world as all equines I have seen thus far are the dominant sentient creatures of this land.

I looked on, loving the beautiful night sky adorning the skyline above the palace and out to the left. A waterfall poured down the side of the mountain to the right, filling a basin littered with lily pads and lotus flowers before passing under a drawbridge and down the side of the rest of the mountain. As for the palace itself... Do not even try to ask me how to describe it. Numerous spires with shades of gold atop a palace of mostly porcelain white. The design is too intricate to effectively put into words. "Wow..." It was all I could say.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Twilight Sparkle asked me as she stood to my left with Applejack and Rainbow Dash beside her.

"That doesn't do it justice, Twi." I replied, still somewhat awestruck by the site of the GGG's location.

Fluttershy spoke, "Just wait until you reach the inside. It's a palace like no other."

Rarity then spoke, "Without further ado... Shall we?" We all nodded and marched along the path that led into the palace, three of my friends on each side of me with Spike right in front of me. With him being so small, it is easy to forget he is there at times.

Upon crossing the drawbridge, I found myself just inside what seemed to be a lobby with a very large golden door at the other end of the relatively small room. It was then I realized something. "I don't have to duck to walk through doorways in here? What sorcery is this?!" All seven of my companions burst into laughter. Seriously, finding this place with doorways that reached high enough so I would not have to mind my head was a massive change of pace for me.

Once the doors had been opened, we entered to find a large room with a stairwell up ahead. The red carpet at my feet trailed off to the right and straight ahead down separate hallways. The stairwell led up to a pair of stained-glass windows with two more stairwells leading up at the sides. And standing before the two windows was... "James!"

My train of thought was wrecked when I head someone call my voice. I adjusted my gaze and saw none other than Princess Luna running down the stairwell before me. "Wha... Luna!" I replied, holding out my arms to catch her as she flew into my arms and embraced me tightly.

Rainbow Dash laughed, "Looks like somepony was looking forward to seeing you, James!" I could only smirk with a slight blush. At least I think I was blushing.

Luna spoke with her face next to my ear, "I could hardly sleep last night. I was just so excited to be able to welcome you into my home, dear friend."

"In all honesty, I didn't know what to expect. I'm glad you're here though, Luna." I replied, my arms caressing her back while her wings beat in a steady rhythm to stay off the floor.

I heard the sound of hooves clopping before a voice spoke to me, "You were all she talked about yesterday, James. Maybe now she can change the subject." I looked to my right and found Princess Celestia looking at me with a smile.

"Princess Celestia!" I heard Twilight speak before she and the other six bowed before her and Luna.

"Oh, please, you don't have to do that. You are my guests this evening, not my subjects." Celestia waved her hoof to make them rise.

I then released my grip on Luna as she dropped to the ground. "You are free to go wherever you desire within the palace. Please do enjoy yourselves."

Twilight then smiled, "Remember the plan, girls. Let's all stick together so we can have a fun night with friends." The other six voiced their approval in unison. Twilight then looked up at Celestia and spoke, "Will it be possible for us to talk tonight?"

Celestia looked down at Luna, who winked at her. She then looked back to Twilight and nodded, "We can start right now. Luna and I will swap places every thirty minutes."

"Swap places for what?" I asked, uncertain of what she meant.

"Welcoming our guests. I never get any time to enjoy the gala myself because the guests don't stop coming until well into the night. But with Luna here, we can share the duty so we both get some time to ourselves." Celestia replied, gently nudging Luna's shoulder.

Luna smiled, "Leave the guests to me for now, sister. Just make sure you're here in thirty minutes." She then went airborne and embraced me again. "I'll see you in thirty minutes. All right?"

I nodded, "Looking forward to it, Luna." I then watched as she flew up to the top of the stairwell before landing and greeting a pair of unicorn mares before they walked past her and up the stairs to the right.

Rarity smiled as she motioned for us to follow her. "Right this way, dears. At least I hope everything is where it was last time." We then proceeded to follow her down the hall off to the room's left. Or right, depending on which direction one was facing.

All the while, Twilight and Celestia were locked in conversation discussing things about 'magic' this and 'books' that. The first room we came to was a very spacious area with a very high ceiling. Many ponies seemed to be locked in conversation or dancing in the middle of the room while an earth pony quartet played music nearby. But for some reason, my gaze fell upon one particular unicorn stallion. He seemed to be speaking to a pair of royal guards. The first thing I noticed right away is that his cutie mark is nearly identical to Twilight Sparkle's, the only difference being that the pink six-pointed star was set upon a dark blue shield with three stars above it. And he was wearing.... Wait a minute. I recognize that jacket! His attire completely matched the outfit Silver Spoon had worn during Nightmare Night. He was wearing shiny black shoes while his mane and tail are a dark blue and sky blue in stripes. His coat is white while his eyes are light blue. While his stature is identical to Big Macintosh's, his muzzle structure is a bit more angular. Could this stallion be Shining Armor?

Before I could ponder the identity of the unicorn any further, he turned and seemed to gaze in my general direction. He suddenly called out, "Twily!"

At those words, Twilight immediately turned her attention away from Celestia and faced him instead. "Armor!" She replied with an ecstatic smile. The two unicorns ran towards each other and embraced each other upon coming within range.

"Lemme guess... That's her brother?" I asked while looking at Celestia.

"Why don't you go over to them and ask?" She replied with a chuckle. I was about to, but I felt a twinge of nervousness fill my heart. I am normally not comfortable approaching people I do not know very well unless I absolutely must, especially if they are family of my friends. Therefore, I waited a brief moment before Twilight looked in my direction and motioned for me to approach her.

"James, come here! I want you to meet somepony." Twilight called out. Still feeling somewhat nervous, I walked over to her. As I did so, I noticed 'Armor' constantly observing me with a calm smile. Once I was standing before him, Twilight spoke, "James, I would like you to meet Shining Armor. My big brother."

I was hardly surprised that... Wait! During Nightmare Night, Silver Spoon went dressed up as Twilight's own brother?! I can only imagine what she must have said upon seeing that filly. In any case, the fact that this unicorn was Twilight's brother did not surprise me after seeing his cutie mark. Twilight then spoke, "Armor, I'd like you to meet James. The only human in Equestria."

Shining Armor nodded, "It's a pleasure to meet you. I've been hearing nothing but good things about you, James."

I meekly replied, "Uh... Thanks. You're captain of the royal guards?"

He replied, "Sure am. Only tonight I'm off duty to enjoy the Grand Galloping Gala."

Twilight then whispered to me, "To be honest, he had to compromise to have enough time to attend. The real reason he wanted to attend this year was because he knew you would be attending."

I was puzzled by just why the captain of Canterlot's security forces wanted to meet me so badly. He then asked, "So, I heard you showed up around eight months ago? How's life in Equestria been treating you?"

I replied briefly, "Excellent. No complaints."

Somehow, Shining Armor seemed to detect my nervousness. He chuckled, "Oh, come on. Don't be so uptight. You don't have to be nervous around me! I know you're great friends with my sister. Any friend of Twilight is a friend of mine."

I nodded, "OK... So, you and Twilight are siblings? And you're the captain of the guard?" When Shining Armor nodded, I exclaimed, "What's the deal with your family having such high-profile standings in society? You being captain of the entire security force and Twilight being Celestia's star pupil. What's your secret?"

Twilight and Armor looked at each other with bemused expressions before facing me. Twilight then smiled, "Ummm... Luck?"

I shrugged my shoulders, "Well, it's not a big deal. Sorry if I struck a nerve."

Shining Armor chuckled, "Nah, it's OK. I often get asked how I got to the top of the ranks anyway. And I really have no way to answer that."

Before we can converse further, Twilight asked, "Oh, right. Armor, is Cadence here?"

Shining Armor nodded before carefully scanning the room. "Yeah, she's here. She went off over..... Ah, right over there."

I scanned the group of ponies and immediately noticed an odd sight. Among the group of earth ponies, unicorns, and pegasi, there stood a lone alicorn. She certainly has the same body type as Celestia and Luna, although her overall size is just slightly larger than the average pony.

Her coat color is a light pink, her eyes being purple. Her mane and tail are fairly long and endearingly curled and styled, giving a quaint, elegant, yet caring air to her. The coloration of her mane and tail consists of stripes of pastel hues of purple, pink, and yellow. She was wearing pale gold shoes styled similarly to Celestia's, an equally pale gold band around the base of her neck, and a small crown on her head that was identical to the one worn by Diamond Tiara during Nightmare Night. Only this time it is quite real. Lastly, her cutie mark depicts what seems to be an aquamarine gemstone shaped like a heart with gold lace below it.

Twilight seemed to immediately become excited and ran closer to the alicorn before calling out, "Cadence!"

I recognized the name, and watched as Cadence turned and ran towards Twilight. "Twilight! So good to see you!"

Shining Armor smirked and winked at me, "Just watch. This is gonna be cute."

I did as I was told and watched as Twilight and Cadence suddenly began to perform.......the most adorable thing together I had seen all month. First, they hopped in place then ducked low while covering their eyes with their forelegs, before raising them as if playing peek-a-boo. They then sat down on their haunches and tapped their hooves together one at a time. They then stood up, stood side-by-side, and wiggled their rumps while still maintaining eye contact. All the while, they chanted, "Sunshine sunshine, ladybugs awake. Clap your hooves and do a little shake!"

Immediately after their little skit, Twilight and Cadence gave each other a warm embrace. Shining Armor then asked, "Whatcha think of that?"

I smirked while suppressing a snicker, "Cutest thing I've seen all month." I then followed him over to the two mares.

"Cadence, Twilight and I would like you to meet someone." Armor spoke as Twilight and Cadence climbed to their feet. I stood silently, unsure of how to address Cadence. Granted, Celestia and Luna are certainly not above acting casually, but I knew absolutely nothing about Cadence, or even if she is really a princess with ruling power or just a noble with the title due to blood ties to the royal sisters.

Twilight held her foreleg out towards me as if to point at me. "Cadence, this is the special friend of mine I wrote to you about. This is James." I remained rooted to the spot, awaiting Cadence's response. Twilight then spoke with a smile, "Oh, he's also pretty shy when meeting new ponies." She hit the nail on the head right there.

Cadence chuckled, "Oh, there's no need to be so uptight. I've been looking forward to meeting you, James." She then held her hoof out to me. "I am Cadence. It's truly a pleasure to meet you."

Feeling a bit more relaxed; I bowed before her and shook her hoof gently. "An honor, Lady Cadence."

My use of honorifics prompted a meek smile from the alicorn. "Oh, you don't have to call me that. I don't have any real ruling power here."

I regained my footing, "Oh... Sorry about that. Just not sure of how to address you, being a princess and all."

Cadence nodded, "Well, just address me however you would with anypony. I used to be a foalsitter, after all."

I raised an eyebrow, "A princess? Babysit... I mean foalsitting? Really?"

Twilight giggled, "My foalsitter, to be honest. There was no foalsitter better than Cadence."

Out of nowhere, I remembered Spike. "Hey, Twilight? Any idea where Spike is?"

She replied, "I think he went with Pinkie Pie to the buffet. Don't worry about him."

However, I replied, "He's with Pinkie Pie? And with nopony else? That's what worries me."

Shining Armor chuckled at my words, but I then heard him whisper to Twilight, "By the way, Twily. You still have that crush on him?"

I felt a spike in my body temperature at those words. Twilight seemed equally flustered, "Armor... I...uh... Can we change the subject?"

The unicorn stallion nodded, "Right, right, sorry. Couldn't help myself. Well... Hey, is that real gold in your robe, James?"

I glanced down at myself, noticing the gold threads shimmering whenever light was shone upon them. "Hard to believe, but yeah. Made by Lady Rarity herself..... Huh?" I paused as I noticed Rainbow Dash jumping up and down, trying to get someone's attention during the brief seconds she was above the crowd of ponies. "Twi, is she trying to get your attention or mine?"

Twilight glanced over at the rowdy pegasus before glancing back at me. "You, of course. I think she wants to show you something."

I replied, "Oh... Whoops. In that case, let's talk again in a little while, guys."

Cadance smiled, "I'm looking forward to it, James."

Shining Armor nodded, "We'll be around. If you need help finding us, just ask the guards." I nodded and waved before hurrying over to Rainbow Dash.

"Excuse me... Pardon me... OK, what's up, Rainbow?" I asked once I managed to push my way through the crowd of ponies.

My pegasus friend grinned, "Ooh, I need ya to meet someone! You're gonna flip!" She then trotted over to a pair of pegasi. I followed as she spoke, "Spitfire, Soarin'! Here he is!"

The two pegasi, a mare and stallion, were locked in conversation and were wearing some most peculiar outfits. Instead of a vest or dress, both were wearing full-body jumpsuits. While they cover most of the body, the mouth, ears, wings, mane and tail are left exposed. I recognized the blue and yellow jumpsuits right away. "The Wonderbolts?"

The pegasus mare looked in my direction and grinned. Her goggles were up, allowing me to get a good view of her orange eyes. Her mane and tail were styled in a wild windswept look, containing streaks of fiery orange. Her muzzle and wings are a shade of fiery yellow. I immediately guessed that she is Spitfire. "So, we finally meet. And you're the lone human everypony in Equestria's talking about?"

I raised an eyebrow, "Hang on. Everypony in the land? What's that all about?"

The stallion of the Wonderbolts faced me and grinned. His mane and tail seemed equally windswept, being shades of dark blue while having green eyes. His wings and muzzle are a very light shade of blue. His name is likely Soarin'. "Are you kidding? When you're the only one of your kind, and a creature of myth outta the history books, you're pretty much a celebrity."

I rolled my eyes, "Oh, please. I'm not that special. My homeworld has over six billion humans there."

Rainbow Dash's jaw dropped, "What the?! Six billion?! I'm amazed they don't fight over living space!" I decided to not reply to that one.

Spitfire then spoke, "Well, you're the only human in Equestria. That says... Was that you, Soarin'?" We all turned to face him at the sound of a loud grumbling sound.

Soarin' chuckled, "Uh... Sorry about that. I'm always hungry as a horse after a show. I better go grab some grub."

As I watched Soarin' trot out to what I believe is a courtyard, I asked, "Should we follow him? I wanna know where to find some food."

Spitfire replied, "I'm pretty sure he's on the prowl for some apple pie."

Rainbow Dash then smirked, "And where's there's apples..."

I added, "There's Applejack."

Rainbow Dash and I followed Soarin' outside, finding ourselves in a wide-open courtyard decorated with flowering ivy-encrusted pillars with magenta ribbons spread between them. As with everywhere else I had been at the GGG, ponies were everywhere. "There she is." Rainbow Dash spoke, pointing to Applejack pushing a green box on wheeled legs.

Once she had pushed the box to a wide-open location, Applejack turned and gave the box a kick. It then opened; spreading out with several shelves popping out of it with a wide variety of apple treats lining them.

As I watched the.... Actually, I will say it like this. The sight of the box opening and changing form caused me to very nearly laugh before I spoke in my best southern accent, "Erectin' a dispenser."

Rainbow Dash glanced up at me and asked, "Huh? Dispenser.... Oh, I getcha! Apple dispenser! Yeah, that's what it is!"

The two of us approached the 'dispenser' as I took care to make certain there were no spies approaching. I wonder if anyone will know what I meant right there... Anyway, Soarin' had lined up in front of the dispenser while Applejack had taken position behind it like a counter. "Howdy, pardner. What can I getcha?"

Soarin' seemed to scan the variety of apple treats, all of which seemed to be very high caliber. I saw a tall cake, apple parfait, apple ice cream, and some others that I did not recognize. "Do you have any of those awesome apple pies?"

Applejack nodded as she reached under the counter and pulled out an apple pie that was as big around as her head. And the ponies of Equestria have some big heads. "Sure do, pardner. I made sure to stock some fer ya Wonderbolt types. That'll be four bits."

"Sweet! Thanks!" Soarin' replied after tossing Applejack a couple of coins before taking the pie in his mouth and happily trotting away.

"Just like last time. First minute, first sale." Applejack spoke with a proud grin.

"That's...uh...quite a variety you have there, AJ. You really didn't hold back this time, huh?" I asked as I looked over the apple dispenser.

"Yup! I learned too late last time that all these hoity toity Canterlot ponies only like hoity toity cuisine. So I pulled out all the stops and whipped up my best dishes! I'm bound ta get some customers now!" She replied with a smile. "But if ya want, I've got some more modest types fer ya. Want any? I've got apple fritters, apple fries, caramel apples..."

As I examined the dispenser, a cheeky thought spread through my mind. I probably should not... Oh, I cannot help it! "Hey, AJ? Don't look now, but..." I then leaned in and spoke with my best southern accent, "There's a spy sappin' yer dispenser!"

For some reason, Applejack seemed to know exactly what I was talking about. She began to rapidly circle her dispenser, checking for trouble. "A spy?! Where?! Is it one of them no-good Flim Flam brothers?!"

Rainbow Dash began to crack up, "Oh man, nice one, James!"

However, Applejack suddenly pulled me down so I was on my knees and got between Rainbow Dash and me before holding us close with her forelegs over our shoulders. "Nah, yer right, James. Them Flim Flam floppers are always ready ta pull a fast one on the Apple family after that last gig. Well, not this time! I've got a lil' somethin' special ta stop 'em in their tracks!"

Rainbow Dash and I watched as Applejack went behind her counter and started rooting around under it somewhere. I asked, "What do you think she's up to down there?"

My pegasus friend replied, "No clue."

Applejack waved to us over the counter, "I'll be a minute, guys. Why don't ya go have some fun fer a while? I'll have these defenses up in a jiffy!"

Rainbow and I looked at each other. "Defenses? Um, Applejack? I think you might be overreacting to this..." Rainbow Dash spoke.

"Ain't no overreactin' to them dang business rivals! This is serious!" She replied, still out of sight behind her counter.

I shrugged, "OK then. But don't take too long. You've got some customers approaching." A few ponies were heading right towards the dispenser, probably due to them having seen that tall cake on it.

"Huh?! Oh, that's just what I needed! Those defenses can wait a bit." Applejack spoke as she stuck her head up. Rainbow Dash and I decided to let Applejack tend to her customers and headed back inside the palace.

I noticed right away Pinkie just sulking at a table nearby, somberly sipping a glass of punch. "Whoa, what's wrong with her?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"No idea. But if she looks that down, it must be bad." I replied. I then went over to the abnormally unhappy pink pony with Rainbow Dash by my side.

"Hey there, Pinkie. What's up?" Rainbow Dash asked once we were right next to her.

With a sigh, Pinkie Pie replied, "I was hoping this time, the Grand Galloping Gala would be a little more...you know...fun? But everything's just as boring as last time!" She then dropped her head onto the table, lazily letting her forelegs dangle off the sides. "All I wanted was to have a good time."

I then asked, "Well... Would you like something to drink?"

Pinkie Pie nodded with a very faint smile, "Sure... Make it sweet."

I turned to head to the nearest bar, but not before making sure Rainbow Dash would keep an eye on Pinkie Pie while I was gone. I noticed a small portable bar nearby with a unicorn stallion minding it. There was no line, so I casually approached him.

"I'll take a glass of your sweetest drink, my good sir." I spoke, trying to sound as refined as possible.

The bartender nodded before levitating up three separate bottles of what I suspect were alcoholic beverages. He then poured some into a metal container before jumbling it for a moment. When he poured the combined liquids into a clear glass, they had taken on a peculiar pink hue. "Heh... That actually looks like Pinkie Pie's style... Oh, could you add some candy sprinkles to that?"

The bartender flashed me a bewildered glance, but did what I asked anyway. He took some candy sprinkles and scattered them atop the drink. "That'll do. Thank you." I spoke before taking the glass and heading back towards Pinkie Pie. I was not entirely certain if it is a good idea to give alcohol to someone as unpredictable as Pinkie Pie, but I decided to throw my caution to the wind this time.

Rainbow Dash looked closely at the glass as I approached them. "Whoa, whatcha got there? That's just as pink as Pinkie Pie."

Pinkie Pie glanced at her drink and her expression immediately brightened. "Ooh, that does look sweet! Thanks!" She then took the glass and chugged the whole thing in one gulp. "Ick... A little strong, but still sweet! Does that make any sense?"

I shrugged, "Whatever suits you... Uh, Pinkie? What's with that look?"

In a mere moment, Pinkie's expression became....odd. Her eyes became dilated while she just sat there doing nothing. Rainbow Dash asked, "Um... Pinkie?" When she got no response, she turned to me. "James, what's wrong with her?"

I then asked, "Do you ever get that feeling where you know something really bad is about to hap- " I was suddenly cut off as Pinkie Pie went sailing past me before climbing onto a large elegant pony statue. "Oh boy..."

Pinkie Pie began to shout, "Woo, I've got an itch in my hooves that I gotta scratch! Time to get down!" She then rushed over to another pony who was wearing a top hat before grabbing him as if to dance. "Oh yeah, shake those groove things!" I looked on in utter disbelief as I saw my friend just going ape with all the Canterlot ponies, sometimes even tossing them into the air as if she had no idea what she was doing.

It was then that I remembered that alcohol removes one's inhibitions, not that she had many to begin with. But if every last one of Pinkie Pie's inhibitions had just been removed... I laughed as I facepalmed, "Ohohoho my god, what have I done?!"

Rainbow Dash gave me an uneasy smile, "Nothing we can do about her now, right? Whaddya say we just...um...give her some space?"

We both heard a yelp and jumped out of the way as a pegasus stallion was thrown right at us. "Sounds good to me! Let's scram!" I replied before the two of us rushed out of the room, just narrowly avoiding the incoming pegasus.

We found Rarity back in the main hall of the palace where Luna was still welcoming guests. "James, Rainbow Dash, what in Equestria is going on in there?!" Rarity asked.

I replied, "To be blunt, Pinkie Pie just got wasted on one hard drink."

Rarity looked at us with a panicked expression, "A hard beverage?! Oh nononono, this is bad! The only hard beverage Pinkie Pie can take without becoming like...well...THAT is hard cider. Anything else will... I think you already saw."

I groaned, "NOW you tell me!"

Rainbow Dash laughed, "Oh, come on! It's not like she's vandalizing the place! Just give her a couple of hours and she'll be fine!" We felt a sudden tremor and a distant crash right after she said that. "Uh...heheh... I hope?"

Rarity smiled uneasily, "Well... Why don't we move this a little further away? Besides, I'm certain you must be hungry. Let me show you to the buffet." We followed the regal unicorn down another hall, hoping Pinkie Pie would keep her antics restricted to that one room.

In the next room, I was greeted by the scent of various foods. I cannot quite recall what was on the menu, but the scent alone made my mouth water. "Shall we?" Rarity asked while motioning for Rainbow Dash and me to follow her to the buffet. We both nodded and got in line. However, Rarity spoke a moment later, "Hm? Excuse me, sir. Have we met?" She seemed to be speaking to the pony that was in front of her.

The pony looked over at us before speaking in a very strong accent that I could only hope to guess in being German, but even then I am not entirely sure. "Lady Rarity! Looking fabulous as always! And that dress is every bit as stunning as the first time I saw it!" He was an earth pony with a pair of sunglasses with purple lenses preventing me from seeing his eyes. His coat is a type of bluish gray while his elegantly coifed mane and tail are two shades of gray with his mane being tied into a shape resembling an orb near the end. Along with his sunglasses, he wore white cuffs around his hooves and an impressive vest with a large white collar. Lastly, his cutie mark depicts an elegant folding fan.

"Hoity Toity! So good to see you here. Are you enjoying the Grand Galloping Gala as much as I hope?" Rarity replied while I watched silently.

"Oh, absolutely! I do my best to attend every year! It's also an effective way to see what styles are 'in' at the Grand Galloping Gala. Although your designs never fail to impress." Hoity Toity replied. He seemed oblivious to my presence.

Rarity smiled, "Oh yes, so many styles to observe here. But before I forget, there's someone I want you to meet." She then turned to me and raised a hoof towards me. "Hoity Toity, it is my honor to introduce you to my wonderful friend. This is James."

I waved with a smile, unsure of what to say. Hoity Toity gazed at me with his mouth hanging open just a bit. "I heard Equestria's lone human resident has a unique sense of fashion. And those rumors were quite accurate!" He seemed to be appraising my robe. "The golden threads interweaving through the fabric that resembled the night sky. Such a mesmerizing and mysterious combination. And is that truly REAL gold in there?"

I nodded, "Believe me, it is. I held the bundle and it was HEAVY." Gold is one of the heaviest metals out there, after all.

Hoity Toity turned to Rarity, "Rarity, how bold! Using actual gold in this masterpiece of clothing? It should be placed in a museum!"

Rarity smiled while holding her head high, "Nonsense! The only place it should be is on James' body. I put my heart and soul into making this for him."

"Well, it certainly suits him. And... Oh! The line is moving. Let us talk later." Hoity Toity spoke as he moved a silver tray down the table the food had been placed on the long table we were moving along. Rarity did the same and levitated a tray of her own while I carried mine.

I must have been hungry. I piled as much food onto my tray as I could We had grilled carrots, fresh iceberg lettuce with French dressing and a multitude of toppings, a few more items I cannot quite recall, and teriyaki tofu stir-fry. Ooh yes, that was my favorite item on the menu. "Mmm, this looks simply scrumptious. Let's take a seat, shall we?"

Rainbow Dash, who had been quiet during Rarity's conversation with Hoity Toity, spoke up while holding her tray on her head, "How about that spot?" There was an empty table nearby. It, like most other furniture in Equestria, was fairly low to the ground. But I probably had no choice but to make due with what I had.

Rarity seemed to notice the table was too short for I to use with a chair. "Oh my, that's too low for James. And it won't do for him to sit on the floor." Using her magic, she levitated what seemed to be a square pillow over to a spot by the table. "There you go, darling. Shall we?"

I took a seat on the soft velvety pillow, finding it to be very comfortable. "Thanks, Rarity. That did the trick."

Once we were all seated, with Rarity on my right and Rainbow Dash on my left, we began to dine. "Man, there's nothing like Canterlot cooking!" Rainbow exclaimed as she tried the stir-fry.

"Isn't there?" Rarity added, delicately savoring her salad with the grace of any queen.

I nodded, "It's all fantastic. Although I probably wouldn't want it every day. It would stop being special if I did."

Rarity nodded, "Oh, yes. Very true."

Moments later, the voice of a refined gentleman spoke behind us. "Excuse me, but may I have this seat?"

Rarity's eyes lit up as she turned to look over her shoulder. "Wahaa... Fancy Pants!"

I tried to not laugh at that name. Fancy Pants? Honestly? I mean, does that name mean the exact same thing as Hoity Toity? Or perhaps Big Wig? Well, regardless, he has one of the oddest names I have ever heard of.

"Ah, Miss Rarity. I heard you would be attending this year. And Miss Rainbow Dash?" Fancy Pants asked.

Rainbow Dash looked behind me and waved. "Hey there!"

Fancy Pants then asked, "And this... Is this that fine fellow I've heard nothing but good things about?" I felt myself tense up at those words, knowing he was referring to me.

Rainbow Dash grinned, "You bet! One of the best friends you'll ever have! C'mon, James! Say hi!"

I nervously turned in my seat. Standing right behind me was the tallest unicorn stallion I had ever seen, being just slightly taller than even Shining Armor. He was wearing a monocle over his left eye and a black tuxedo jacket. His coat is either white or a very light shade of gray. His eyes match his mane and tail coloration, being a light azure. He also had a tiny moustache just under his nose. Like Big Macintosh, the fetlocks around his hooves had been trimmed, allowing me to actually see them. Lastly, his cutie mark depicts three golden crowns with purple diamonds in the center. "Um... Good evening."

Fancy Pants elegantly bowed before me, "It is honor, my good sir. I have been most eager to meet the only human in Equestria."

I rolled my eyes, "Is it just me, or is everypony at the Grand Galloping Gala here JUST to meet me?" My two friends chuckled, as did Fancy Pants.

"My good sir, you are one of a kind. A being that has never been seen in Equestria before. Of course everypony is going to want to know more about you!" Fancy Pants replied. His eyes then seemed to scan me for a moment before adding, "And by the way, that is a most fabulous robe you are wearing."

I smiled, "Miss Rarity made it. I mean, who else could come up with something of this caliber?"

Rarity seemed to blush as she grinned, "Oh, James, you flatter me."

Fancy Pants smiled, "Oh, his praise is well placed. You went out of your way to weave real gold into this? Truly no expense was spared here."

I then asked, "Not to be rude, but if your name is Fancy Pants, then where in the world ARE your pants?"

My question clearly caught the refined gentleman by surprise, his monocle popping off his face and hanging by a string from his collar. "Oh my, that IS a good question. Not living up to my name very well, am I?" Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and I chuckled in unison.

"Perhaps I should go find me a matching pair of pants. Excuse me for a short while, if you wouldn't mind." Fancy Pants spoke before bowing and trotting away.

Rarity spoke, "That was a good question, James. For as long as I've known him, Fancy Pants has almost never worn pants."

I then asked, "Would Shimmering Shirt have been better for him? Or Magnificent Monocle?" Rainbow Dash snickered at my words.

Minutes later, I heard some hooves clopping coming up behind me. I was expecting it to be Fancy Pants having found a pair of actual...well...pants. But the voice that spoke was quite different. "May I have this seat, James?"

I recognized it immediately and looked over my shoulder to find Luna looking at me with a silver tray lined with food. "Luna! Sure, right here." I replied as I pulled a seat closer to me.

Rainbow Dash grinned, "Hey there, Princess Luna! Finally got away from the newcomers?"

The princess of the night replied, "Yes. My 'shift' ended, so Celestia took my place. I believe Twilight Sparkle went off to locate Spike." She then took a seat by me and placed her tray on the table.

"I'm so relieved to hear that the evening is going so much more smoothly for everypony than last time... Although, is Pinkie Pie still keeping herself occupied in that one chamber?" Rarity asked, looking rather concerned.

Luna nodded, "Thankfully, yes. The other guests seem to be giving her a wide berth. But what exactly happened to her?"

I replied, "She's in Pinkieville now and she won't be leaving for a few hours."

When Luna stared at me with a baffled expression, Rainbow Dash added, "She's stuck in her own little world right now. Just don't give her anymore hard drinks."

Luna's face became one of uneasiness. "That explains the shrieking for help... Oh wait, that was just Pinkie Pie swinging from the chandelier."

I chuckled while shaking my head, "Well, she wanted a good time and now she's having one. I just hope she can remember it tomorrow morning."

As we ate, Luna whispered to me, "You know, I've been longing to see you again, James. When we finish here, would you care for a walk in the royal garden?"

I smiled, "Sounds lovely, Luna. Just the two of us?"

Luna nodded, "Indeed." She then gently rested her hoof on my hand, "Just me, and the first person who ever thanked me for the night."

Once we had cleaned our plates of our food, I stood up and faced Rarity and Rainbow Dash. "Excuse me, ladies. Luna and I are going to take a walk through the royal garden. Can we catch up in a bit?"

Rainbow Dash grinned, "Sounds like a plan, James. And watch out for Fluttershy. I heard she was gonna check things out in there too."

Rarity then added, "You two darlings have a wonderful time."

Luna bowed, "We shall. James? Right this way." We bid our friends goodbye and headed outside.

The first thing I noticed was that Applejack had quite a line of customers lined up at her dispenser. "Hang on a second, Luna." I spoke before heading over to Applejack.

"Howdy, James! Sorry, but you'll have to get in line if ya wanna buy somethin'." Applejack greeted me as I stood by the side of her dispenser.

I replied, "Oh, I don't want anything right now. Although..." I smirked as I took about five steps away from the dispenser and pointed to the ground. I then spoke in my best southern accent, "We need a dispenser right here."

Applejack looked at me, clearly not getting that I was just messing with her. "There? Well...uh... All righty then. Excuse me, fellas." She spoke before pushing her dispenser over to where I was pointing. The line of ponies followed without much protest.

I snickered under my breath, really getting some enjoyment out of Applejack's ignorance. "OK, there we go. Right there, James?" She asked.

I decided to try something new and replied, "Much obliged, AJ. Only now... There's a spy sappin' yer sentry!"

That was the one quip I was not expecting Applejack to get at all. But to my surprise, she gasped, "My sentry?! No! Big Macintosh'll have my hide!" She dashed over behind her dispenser and began rooting around under it in a frenzy, leaving me and her line of customers baffled.

"Phew! It's safe and sound! Them Flim Flam jerks ain't gonna get me yet!" Applejack spoke before poking her head up to check on her customers.

"Really? She has a sentry?" I muttered to myself. And what was with the mention of Big Macintosh? Regardless, it is probably not a very dangerous device since I have not seen a single firearm once since arriving in Equestria. "AJ, where is your...uh...sentry right now?"

Applejack glanced at me after serving one of her customers an apple parfait. "Oh, it's right under my counter here. Once I've got a lil' bit more time, I'll set it up. Don't think any troublemakers can get inta the gala, but it don't hurt ta be safe."

I shrugged my shoulders before walking back over to Luna. "Sorry about that. Shall we be going?"

However, Luna chuckled, "What exactly did you tell her? I was enjoying the show!"

I snickered, "A little joke from my world. It's even funnier when the target of the joke doesn't get the reference."

Applejack had set her dispenser up very near the royal garden, so it took no time at all to get there. Upon entering, I noticed a small bird fly by. "That is a meadowlark." Luna spoke. The area was quite dark due to lack of natural light sources. The garden was quite lush, filled with bushes. I noticed very quickly that red roses were the most common flower there, adorning many bushes.

"Seems pretty tame. Are all animals in Equestria like this no matter where you go?" I asked, wondering if all wildlife is approachable here.

Luna smiled, "Well, the animals in this garden are all friendly towards me and my sister. Perhaps it's because they see us very often." She raised a hoof and allowed the meadowlark to perch upon her.

I watched for a moment, not certain if I should try to touch the bird. Luna seemed to notice and spoke, "They feel safe around ponies they know. Go ahead and show them you mean no harm."

With a steady hand, I slowly reached out to the meadowlark and caressed its head. "Hey there, little one..." I spoke softly. In a moment, the bird suddenly perched upon my finger.

"I believe it trusts you." Luna said with a smile.

I raised the bird to my face, which then leaned against me. "Awww..." I muttered as I caressed the bird with one hand. However, I suddenly heard a rustling and screeching of birds as many flew away just up ahead. "Trouble?"

Luna frowned, "I can't imagine any trespassers causing harm." We both hurried on ahead to be greeted by a very.....awkward sight.

"Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to... Wait! I just wanted to... No! Don't go! I only..." Fluttershy was running back and forth to every single animal she could find, said animals fleeing from her whenever she drew near. This struck me as extremely odd. Fluttershy adores animals and can quickly make friends with pretty much every animal she meets. Why were these animals trying to stay away from her so desperately? She came to a stop in the middle of the clearing before groaning, "Why won't any of you be my friends?!"

Luna asked, "Well, I've never seen the garden's animals flee from anypony so swiftly. Fluttershy, why do they seem to fear you so?"

Fluttershy seemed somewhat embarrassed as she replied, "Last time... I...um...tried too hard to get them to open up to me... I even...flew off the handle, if you know what I mean."

I winced, "Um... That's a scary thought. You flying off the handle? No wonder they're so scared of you."

"I know... They'll never like me now..." Fluttershy replied with a disheartened sigh.

I looked at Luna, "Aren't they always wary of anyone from outside the palace?"

This seemed to surprise Fluttershy. She glanced up at me, "Wait... Always? But... I never did anything to frighten them at first!"

Luna smiled sheepishly, "That's the problem with the animals that live in this garden. They have everything they need here, so they never leave. This isolated lifestyle makes them wary to anypony they do not recognize since they seldom get visitors aside from Celestia, myself, and the palace guards and caretakers."

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a.....wallaby emerge from the bushes? Since when does Australian wildlife reside on a mountain? Regardless, I spoke, "Hang on. I'm gonna try something."

I began to walk towards the wallaby with a casual gait, my head turning to gaze at my surroundings while only glancing at the wallaby every few seconds. The wallaby naturally watched me with caution. But as I started to draw near, I changed direction so I would pass the wallaby by five feet or so. The wallaby stood its ground, not moving from the spot. I approached a flowering bush and smelled the roses, trying to act like I was as nonhostile as possible.

After a moment, I walked over to a nearby tree, passing the wallaby again. As I drew near, I heard Fluttershy ask Luna, "What is he doing?"

Luna replied, "Shh. Let's watch and wait."

Once I was next to the tree, I placed one hand against it for support. I overheard Luna speak, "It seems he's being indirect with his approach to avoid seeming aggressive."

Fluttershy smiled, "Oh, I see. So I shouldn't just run up to them in excitement... Oh!"

As I had hoped, the wallaby had begun to draw near to me. Probably out of curiosity since it had never seen anything like me before. It soon stood right by my side and gazed up at me. I looked down at it for a moment before turning my gaze ahead again, waiting for the wallaby to make the first move.

After a moment, the wallaby sniffed my hand before nuzzling it. I decided to make my move then, slowly moving my hand until it was caressing its head. It was the first time I had ever come in direct physical contact with a marsupial of any kind.

"It's letting him touch it! He's touching it!" I heard Fluttershy shriek in excitement while doing her best to keep her voice down.

Once I felt the wallaby had opened up to me enough, I faced it and kneeled down to have better access. I scratched the underside of its lower jaw, which it seemed to find enjoyable. However, I then noticed Fluttershy walking by while seemingly minding her own business too. The wallaby seemed to react to her presence with surprise, but calmed down as long as I kept maintaining physical contact with it.

It seemed that Fluttershy was taking the exact same steps I took, going from bush to flowering bush without paying much mind to any of the wildlife. Eventually, she approached me, but then turned to face away from the wallaby. She just stood there, her gaze directed at nothing in particular. After a moment, the wallaby drew close to her and just stared at her. Her large teal eye looked at the wallaby for a few seconds before gazing back at nothing.

The wallaby finally reached out and touched Fluttershy after at least two minutes of watching her. Fluttershy's eyes opened wide, clearly shocked that one of the animals she had frightened had FINALLY opened up to her. "He... Hello." She meekly spoke while turning her head to face the wallaby. She then reached out with her hoof, getting touching the wallaby's hand...paw...whichever you call it.

The wallaby gingerly nuzzled her, a clear sign that it had come to no longer view her as a threat. Fluttershy grinned brightly, but seemed to be doing her best to not burst out cheering in triumph. "I think you made a friend, honey." I spoke softly.

"At last... Thank you for showing me how to, James." Fluttershy replied before kissing me softly.

"I see you've found a way to approach the garden's animals, you two. And it was a very clever way to do so." Luna spoke as she approached us.

Fluttershy grinned while the wallaby continued to nuzzle her, "James is amazing with animals. I could learn a few things from him."

I smiled, "I've had a lot of experience with them." I then asked, "Come to think of it, has everyone been having a better time this year? I heard the last gala didn't go over so well."

Fluttershy nodded, "I think everything's better this time. Twilight finally has time to talk to Princess Celestia, Applejack is making a good profit with her apple products, Rainbow Dash is finally spending some time with the Wonderbolts... I think. And I finally got to be friends with the animals in this garden." She then asked, "What about Pinkie Pie and Rarity? Did they get what they came for?"

I chuckled, "Well, Pinkie Pie's having a blast in there. So I'm guessing that's a yes for her. But what did Rarity come here for?"

Fluttershy smiled, "Last time, she came here to 'find her prince'. I'm not sure what she meant by that."

I frowned as I pondered what she meant. A prince? Does it have something to do with that particular prince Rarity has mentioned to me a few times before? "Well, I'm sure we'll all go home satisfied in the end."

Luna, Fluttershy, and I remained in the garden for a short while later. We had to keep track of time though, since Luna would have to swap places with Celestia before long. But once we finally exited the garden, I found that Applejack's line of customers had shrunken greatly. And I noticed something next to her counter that puzzled me.

"Oh lord, don't tell me that's what I think it is." I grumbled. Standing next to the counter was what seemed to be a wooden box painted red with what seemed to be Big Macintosh's cutie mark painted on the side. It was standing up on a tripod-style stand, a short barrel on the front that was slightly bigger around than my fist. I snickered, "Sentry just ahead."

Fluttershy asked, "Sentry? James, where are you going?"

I replied, "I need to try something out." I then walked over to Applejack just as the last of her customers walked away.

"Ya'll come back now, ya hear?!" She called out to her customers. Applejack then faced me. "Hey there, James. What can I do ya for?"

I replied, "Nothing at the moment. But what is.....that?" I pointed at the box on stilts next to her apple stand.

"Oh, that? It's a sentry! Big Macintosh designed it. I set it up in case anypony gets it in their head ta shoplift." Applejack replied with a smug smirk.

I asked, "Uh huh... And it works? What caliber does it use?"

Applejack replied, "Caliber? Don't know what that is, but it shoots apples. Ya steal an apple, ya get an apple. To the face!"

The idea of something that shoots apples as projectiles sounded pretty farfetched to me. "I need to try this." I grabbed an apple fritter and took a step back.

"Uh, James? I don't recommend that..." Applejack spoke. I noticed that the 'sentry' had its barrel pointing directly at me on an angle it did not have before. Was it tracking me?

"Maybe this thing works after all." I muttered. I then took another step back. And then... BAM.

Out of nowhere, I felt a powerful blow to the very center of my stomach that instantly caused me to hunker over. Ow! I noticed an apple roll away from me, probably the very object that had just hit me.

"Oh no! James! Are you all right?!" Fluttershy shrieked as she ran over to me.

In all honesty, I found this whole situation to be absolutely hilarious. I laughed while groaning at the same time, "Oh my god, AJ! That... Ahahowch!"

Applejack seemed very concerned about me as I lied on my side while curled up in a ball. "I tried ta warn ya, James! Why'd ya do that?!"

I replied, "I... Ugh... I just wanted to see if that sentry really worked. And boy, does it work! A blow from that will probably crack your skull!"

Applejack nodded, "Yup. Ain't no spy's gonna get my goods now! Oh, and... Ya need a hand gettin' up, pardner?"

I continued laughing, "Nah... I'm good! Seriously, I got a real kick outta this incident." I struggled to my feet, trying to not bend forward or back too much.

Luna asked, "I'm surprised you're just laughing that off. Are you sure you'll be fine?"

I chuckled, wincing from the pain, "It was well-comically timed, so I have nothing against the incident. I mean, seriously! A wooden box that shoots apples! That's funny!"

Applejack chuckled, "Well, I'm sure nopony would see it comin', that's fer sure."

I gently rubbed my abdomen, "OK... I think I'll be all right now."

Luna then stepped forward, "Be still for a moment, James. That will leave you sore for a while, so let me fix it." Her horn was engulfed by a billowing cobalt aura as she held her horn next to my belly. In a moment, I felt the soreness fade away entirely. "That should do it."

I placed a hand on my abdomen, finding no pain at all. "A type of healing magic?"

Luna nodded, "It's very practical. It heals any minor injuries, from simple scratches to painful bruises."

Fluttershy grinned, "Thank you, Princess Luna. I hate seeing James in any pain."

Luna smiled, "It's my pleasure, Fluttershy. I'm well aware how close you two are."

Applejack chuckled, "Well, I'm gonna pack up my leftovers here in a little while. I think almost everypony's had their fair share."

"Did you make a good haul tonight?" I asked.

Applejack nodded, "Yup. All this extra cash is gonna really help out 'round the farm." I was actually impressed by how dedicated Applejack is to her family business.

Luna smiled, "Well, I do not wish to end our time together so soon, but I need to return to my post. Let's talk again in thirty minutes, everypony."

Fluttershy nodded, "All right. We'll see you then, Princess Luna."

Applejack waved, "See ya 'round, yer highness!"

I embraced my dear friend, "Same here, Luna."

Luna equally embraced me and whispered into my ear, "Thank you for coming, my friend." I nodded in response and watched as she walked away.

Before I could go back into the palace, Fluttershy spoke, "James? If it's not too much trouble, I'd like to spend some more time out here in the garden to apologize to the animals for scaring them last time I was here."

I nodded, "OK then, honey. I'll be inside once you've had enough." She went airborne, kissed me on the cheek, landed, and then trotted away into the garden again. Left with nothing else to do, I went back inside the palace to try to find one of my friends.

Upon entering the palace, I found Rarity enjoying what seemed to be one of Applejack's apple ice cream. As I drew near, she noticed my approach and asked, "I just saw Princess Luna pass me. Did you enjoy your time with her, darling?"

I smiled, "I certainly did. Even came across Fluttershy and helped her figure out how to approach some of the garden's animals. What's been up with you?"

Rarity replied, "Well, Rainbow Dash went to check on the Wonderbolts while I went to get some of this delectable ice cream before Applejack closed up shop." She then smiled, "I must say this year's gala has been absolutely fabulous compared to my first. The only way it could get any better is if I can go the rest of the night without having to see..." She paused for a moment as her gaze was directed to the doorway leading further into the palace. "No... Why, oh WHY, did they invite him again?!"

I turned to look to see what had suddenly gotten Rarity so flustered. My gaze soon fell upon a unicorn stallion I had yet to notice at the GGG. He was fairly tall, possibly standing slightly taller than Shining Armor. His coat was white or a very light gray with his elegantly styled mane and tail being a light amber hue. His eyes were a rare shade of artic blue. Like Shining Armor, his fetlocks were cut short to allow his hooves to be seen. He was wearing a black and white vest with a blue bowtie in the center. His cutie mark... Hm. How do I describe this? It seemed to consist of two overlapping four-pointed stars. The one below seemed to be a lavender hue while the one atop it was a golden hue. In all, it resembled a star with eight points. He had a calm smile on his face, not seeming to be unpleasant in any way. What was wrong with this stallion that had Rarity looking so disgusted?

"Him?" I asked, pointing at the white unicorn stallion. Or was he gray?

Rarity growled, "Yes, that is him. The same prince you are a hundred times better than."

I cocked my head slightly, "Him? Worse than me? He seems like an OK guy from a glance."

Rarity glared at me, "Do not be deceived. He is, by far, the most unpleasant prince I have ever met. Do not make eye contact with him. Do not get involved with him. Do not say I did not..."

Rarity paused as we both looked to our sides. While we were in that brief moment of conversation, the same unicorn stallion we were discussing had approached us and was standing not even two feet away. He seemed to be looking at Rarity with a somewhat angry stare. My elegant unicorn friend groaned, "Great. What do you want?"

The prince looked up at me before regaining his calm smile. "Before I deal with her, allow me to introduce myself. I am Prince Blueblood."

I nodded, "An honor, m'lord."

He then chuckled, "Well, it seems SOMEONE has some manners and a respect of authority..." He then frowned harshly while looking at Rarity out of the corner of his eye, "Unlike a certain wench."

I winced at that word. Insulting Rarity? How dare he! She has always been one of the most reliable and supportive friends I have ever.... Sorry, I lost my cool right there. It is just that Rarity is very precious to me and I cannot understand why anyone would ever say such things about her. Anyway, I decided to wait and listen before making accusations.

Rarity's face became flushed with anger, "Wench?! You would dare call me such a vulgar term?! If anypony is a wench, it is you, you ungrateful self-centered scoundrel!"

I then asked, "Um... Rarity? I really don't see what the big deal is... What did he do?"

My friend suddenly faced me. "What did he do?! So much, I would rather forget! No chivalry at all, using me like a personal servant, and even using me as a living shield to keep himself from becoming dirty from a falling cake!"

The mention of being used as a shield was what really got my blood boiling. "He WHAT?!" It was all I could say. It also seemed that our argument had drawn an audience, since numerous ponies had begun to gather around us.

Blueblood did not seem apologetic in the slightest, nor did he try to deny those accusations. He raised his head somewhat before replying, "Commoners like you are meant to serve the royals. I would not expect a mere peasant to understand."

By this point, I had lost all prior respect for Blueblood. Before Rarity could lash out any further at such insults, I spoke boldly, "You, sir, are nothing more than a lout."

There was a gasp from the crowd at my words. Blueblood even seemed temporarily stunned by my choice of words. "You... I beg your pardon?" He asked, seemingly not used to being flat-out told to his face.

I replied, "Lout. An uncouth boorish person, or a mere oaf. That sums you up quite nicely." There was an even louder gasp as I spoke the general definition of 'lout'.

Rarity smirked, "Well said, darling. I could not find a better comeback even if I tried."

Blueblood could only stare at me, his face starting to become flushed with red from anger. I bowed, "I believe I have made my point. And with that, I bid you adieu." I then turned and walked away with Rarity by my side.

".....Take that back." I heard Blueblood speak with a tone of malice to his voice before I even made ten steps.

I stopped in my tracks and turned to face him. "Why should I? It's the truth."

Blueblood then smirked slightly, "I see. If that is your choice, then I challenge you to a duel!"

There was a great deal of commotion in the crowd around us. Rarity then spoke, "James, he's not worth your time. Just leave him be."

I nodded and turned to walk away. However, Blueblood spoke in a jeering tone, "What's this? Is Equestria's lone human really a coward?!"

I stopped dead in my tracks. While I do not mind insults like that, tending to just blow them off and let others think whatever they wish, I entertained the thought of accepting Blueblood's challenge. I asked without turning around, "Is it a duel of swords you want?"

Blueblood replied, "But of course. What else could there be?"

I crossed my arms as I considered my options. I looked down at Rarity, shaking her head to try to dissuade me from agreeing. Of course, if this is a duel of swords he wants, and I have always had a deep fascination of swordplay.....

".....I accept." I spoke. The crowd let out another gasp at my words.

I heard Blueblood speak in a satisfied tone, "To the courtyard." He then walked past me, flashing Rarity and I a foul smirk. The rest of the partygoers followed in a massive drove.

"James... Are you sure about this?" Rarity asked with a look of deep concern on her face.

I nodded, "I'm a little nervous, but actually fighting someone with a sword? That's something I'd like to try." I then flashed her a slight smirk, "Besides, how skilled with a sword can a pampered hoity toity lout like him possibly be?"

"Ahem..." I heard Hoity Toity speak as he walked by.

"Uh... I didn't mean you!" I replied, probably feeling my body temperature rise enough to induce sweating.

Rarity did not seem convinced by my words. "I worry about you...I know you know more about swordplay than I do, but still... I dread the thought of you getting hurt."

I kneeled down and caressed her face, "Don't worry about me, Rarity. Besides, I can't just let him get away with what he forced you through."

Rarity sighed, "Just... Don't go charging in without a plan..."

I nodded, "That's not how I do things, Rarity. I'm a defensive fighter." I then turned and walked out into the courtyard.

I suspect every last pony at the GGG had gathered in the courtyard to watch the duel. Ponies were absolutely everywhere. Blueblood himself was standing in the middle of a large clearing, which would likely serve as the battlefield. As I drew near, he smirked, "Our weapons should arrive shortly. But you may forfeit anytime."

I replied with my arms crossed without looking directly at him, "Only cowards recommend their opponent forfeit." This prompted a glare from Blueblood, but he spoke no words.

"Weee! What's going on down there?!" I heard Pinkie Pie shout from somewhere above me. I looked up and noticed a balcony above the courtyard with Twilight Sparkle, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack looking down at us. Spike was seated on the railing while Celestia and Luna stood by them.

"Pinkie Pie, honestly! Would you just sit still for five minutes?!" Twilight groaned in irritation. It seemed that Pinkie Pie's intoxication had not yet run its course.

Fluttershy spoke quietly as usual, but I think I heard her speak, "I hope he'll be OK... I know James isn't the fighting type."

Rainbow Dash shouted, "Are you kidding?! He'll be fine! This is gonna be. So. AWESOME!" I snickered, amused that Rainbow Dash was so fired up to see me take on Blueblood.

"Yes, I'm certain this will be quite a spectacle. But I still can't help worrying that this is a bad idea." I heard Rarity speak.

"Ya worry too much, girl. Ya saw how he was at Nightmare Night. He can handle that hoity toity pretty boy." Applejack added.

Spike shouted, "C'mon, James! Rip him a new one!"

I finally decided to reply, "The weapons aren't even here yet! Knock it off!" That seemed to shut them up.

After a few more minutes, Shining Armor approached Blueblood and I while pushing a tray on wheels. Lining it was a slew of weapons, most of them melee types. "Choose your weapons, gentlemen."

Blueblood stepped forward and levitated what seemed to be an embarrassingly small rapier into the air and held it close to his head. The magic aura that surrounded his horn and the rapier were similar in color to his mane. The rapier itself was completely blunt, probably being a fencing foil or epee.

I decided to choose the same type of weapon to be fair, even though rapiers are not my preferred weapon of choice. But once I was actually holding it, I realized just how tiny it was compared to the one I had used during Nightmare Night. It was barely longer than a dagger, a short sword's size at most. Probably due to the ponies of Equestria being smaller than humans.

I looked at Shining Armor and asked, "We're supposed to duel using toothpicks?!"

Blueblood replied, "That is a foil..."

I glanced at him for a second before examining my tiny weapon. I held it in two different angles before literally using the capped tip of the sword as a toothpick, cleaning out two places in my teeth. "Yeah, it's a toothpick."

Shining Armor burst into laughter, as did a good amount of our audience. However, Blueblood seemed frustrated by my attempts at poking fun at the undersized weapon I was being forced to use. "Enough of this banter! Shall we begin?"

As Blueblood walked towards the center of the courtyard, I sighed, "Ugh, fine. Whatever you say, Prince Blueballs."

At those words, Blueblood froze in his tracks while the audience gasped in unison. He rigidly looked over his shoulder at me with a truly furious glare. "Come again?"

I smirked and held my hands out to my sides. "Oh, don't you give me that look! You know it's true! What self-respecting mare would ever spend a single night in your company?!" The entire audience burst into hysterical laughter. Chances are I was being dead-on accurate with my claim.

With a deep red blush on his face, Blueblood shouted, "SILENCE!" He then held out his rapier, "I will not put up with anymore of your insults, you cretin! Ready yourself!" I did not feel intimidated in the slightest. It was actually starting to be entertaining to see Blueblood so flustered.

"Fine, let's get on with it." I spoke as I approached him and took my stand. I bent my knees slightly while holding my left hand against my lower back while holding my sword out in my right hand. I kept it tilted on a 45 degree angle to parry or attack right away.

The two of us stared each other down for a moment. Luna then called out, "Begin! And fight with honor!"

Blueblood smirked, "Have at thee, cretin!" He suddenly stabbed his foil towards me.

I said nothing as I smacked his foil away and stepped forward while keeping myself fairly low to the ground. One thing I found was that although my weapon was much smaller than I was used to, it allowed for swifter strikes to the point where I could stab rapidly. I did just that, rapidly stabbing at him in a quick flurry that caused Blueblood to back away while trying to parry some of my strikes.

"Not bad! Seems I underestimated you!" Blueblood spoke as we kept trying to outdo each other. Neither of us could really make any headway against the other. We were both fighting on equal ground, balanced in both offense and defense. It was rather impressive how well Blueblood could control his weapon despite not having any physical connection to it.

After a minute of striking at each other, we both hopped back. Blueblood was actually starting to seem fairly agitated that he could not strike me. I was beginning to sweat as my pulse quickened. I had never been in an actual fight before. Although this duel was more along the lines of friendly competition with little risk of injury, my concentration was intensely focused on this. I could feel a type of rush going through my head that usually only happened back on Earth when I got too into a fighting genre video game. I was pumped.

I breathed deeply as I kept a close eye on Blueblood as he also seemed to be scanning me for an opening. Out of nowhere, he shouted, "There!" He suddenly thrust his sword towards me. I tried to parry, causing it to go off course. However, the sound of a loud rip filled the air, causing us to both freeze. I think even Blueblood was baffled at just what it was he did.

"Please tell me that wasn't what I think it was." I asked, hoping that my robe was still undamaged.

Out of nowhere, I heard Rarity scream at me. "JAMES! TAKE HIM DOWN!"

I looked up at the balcony she was standing on and noticed that she was glaring down at me with the most furious expression I had ever seen on her face. I glanced at Blueblood, "What the hell did you do? I've never seen her this mad before!"

Blueblood replied, "I... I don't know!"

Rarity then shouted again, "YOUR ROBE! LOOK AT YOUR ROBE!"

My...robe?! That work of art?! I immediately glanced down to see where Blueblood's foil had gone. It had gone down to my side, tearing a gash is the fabric.

Under normal circumstances, I would not have minded my clothing being lightly damaged. But this? That robe is the most precious piece of clothing I had ever received, not to mention it is a one-of-a-kind garment woven by one of my most beloved friends. So naturally, I felt my blood beginning to boil.

I flashed a glare at Blueblood and growled, "You got a death wish?" Blueblood seemed to detect my change in mood, since he suddenly backed away from me. Rather than attack though, I turned and walked towards Shining Armor.

"Where are you going?! This duel is not over yet!" Blueblood called out to me.

I looked back at him and shouted, "Shut it, Blueballs! I'm not done with you yet!" That seemed to shut him up while also causing him to glare at me.

"Something wrong, James?" Shining Armor asked as I drew near.

I replied, "I need a weapon change." I set my foil down on the table and began to browse my choices. I saw clubs, crossbows and... Excellent.

"Ooh, that's what I'm looking for!" I exclaimed as I grabbed what seemed to be a side sword. It was the largest sword on the tray, actually looking like something made for human use. Although looking more dangerous than the other weapons, I could see that the blade was completely dull. The blade itself was over two feet long, perhaps two and a half. And for something, a murmur ran through the audience as I took up my new weapon.

As I turned to walk back towards Blueblood, Shining Armor asked, "Um... Are you sure you know what you're doing with that?"

"Why do you ask?" I replied as I held my sword in hand.

He then spoke in a slightly louder voice, "That's a greatsword! It's not for beginners! Are you sure you...uh..." I was in no mood for an argument, so I turned and pointed my sword at his face to shut him up. The tip was an inch or two from his snout.

"I'm using this and nothing else. Got it?" I replied. And really? A greatsword? I suppose a side sword would seem pretty large to a pony that does not even reach four feet when down on all fours.

Shining Armor smiled nervously, "Well...uh... Suit yourself! I'm pretty sure you know what you're doing."

I turned and walked back towards Blueblood, muttering, "You're darn right, I do."

Before I got too far, I paused. Blueblood then shouted, "What are you doing?! This is not a duel for swords of that size!"

I replied, "You're free to forfeit if you don't like freestyle duels." I then stabbed the blade into the ground to give me full use of both hands.

I began to undo the buttons that held my robe in place. Once they had been undone, I removed my glasses and closed one of its temple arms over my robe's collar to keep it in place. I then slid my arms out of the sleeves, leaving the robe draped over me like a cloak.

"Armor, could you do me a favor?" I asked while looking over at Twilight's brother.

"Yeah?" He replied.

I then grabbed my robe in my right hand and flung it towards him. "Hold onto this for me. And don't let it get anymore tears in it." The audience gasped as the removal of my robe left me with only the pure white t-shirt on my upper body, the cutie mark of the pony whose work had just been damaged being worn proudly over my chest and back.

Shining Armor's horn was engulfed by a pink glow that was identical to his sister's. As was my robe once it began to float in midair. "OK. I'll keep it safe."

I nodded to him with a smile, and then glared at Blueblood before widening my stance and taking my sword into my right hand in a reverse grip. I held the blade vertically behind me, knowing a few things about backhand sword wielding.

Blueblood actually seemed rather intimidated at that moment, probably because I was using a weapon with one hand that, by their standards, would require two hands to properly wield. I then spoke, "No one disses Rarity's work like that. When I'm done with you, you'll have to start calling yourself Prince..."

I was suddenly interrupted by Rainbow Dash, who called out from above us, "Blacken Blueballs!"

The entire audience burst into laughter at those words, but I facepalmed. "How'd she know what I was gonna say?"

Blueblood, who seemed both embarrassed and frustrated, called out, "E... Enough of this! Are you going to duel me or not?!"

I scowled at him, "Fine." I then dashed towards him, sword ready to strike.

Blueblood clearly wasn't expecting me to take the offensive so suddenly. He backed away slightly while holding his foil out in a defensive stance. Of course, that tiny toothpick was not going to be much use against my 'greatsword' unless he knew exactly how to counter it.

As I came within range, I stopped running and just used my momentum to slide a bit over the grass. In the process, I swung my sword upward, striking Blueblood's foil and very nearly knocking it out of his magical grasp. I then let go of the sword just slightly so the blade would rise up before grabbing it again in a standard grip before swinging it back down at the startled prince.

"Where did you learn how to fight like this?!" Blueblood shouted as he tried his best to parry my swings.

"I didn't!" I replied. It is true. I never once had a fencing lesson in my life. I was completely improvising with my weapon.

The audience was very quiet. Probably enthralled by the sight of two duelists going at it. Even though I was completely on the offensive, Blueblood was doing a decent job of staying on the defensive. Then again, he looked absolutely frightened of me. On the other hand, how would you feel if someone who stood nearly twice your height was coming at you with a weapon that was almost as long as you are?

His defense was good. Frustratingly good. Finally, I could not take the frustration any longer. After one more slash that struck against his foil, I quickly smashed my sword's pommel into his nose to stun him. I then reached out with my spare hand and grabbed his horn.

"What the... What are you...?!" It was all Blueblood had enough time to say before I threw him to the ground. Immediately after that, I made an underhand swing with my sword and struck... Well... I will say that by tomorrow, his 'balls' are going to be blacken blue... I mean black AND blue.

Blueblood let out a high-pitched shriek as I struck him where I probably should not. He curled up on the ground in obvious agony. I would normally feel bad after causing someone such pain, but I was too angry towards him at the time to feel any guilt. At that moment, I heard Pinkie Pie call out, "Ooooh, nutcracker!"

I stood back while hoisting my sword's blade to my shoulder, lightly tapping it against my shoulder while tapping my foot as well. "Are you done?"

After a moment, Blueblood glared at me while struggling to climb to his feet. "You... How dare you?! Have you no shame?!"

I glared at him, "You should try asking yourself..... Lout."

Once he had climbed to his feet, Blueblood levitated his foil again. "I have had enough! Peasants like you need to be put in their place!"

He was clearly going on the offensive, so I stood ready. My longer and heavier sword was more difficult to parry with though, so I tried something else. Probably due to the pain between his legs, Blueblood did not move from his current position, instead opting to levitate his weapon forward to strike me.

His foil struck rapidly, stabbing at me in a flurry. I could not effectively use my sword to parry or block such a small nimble weapon, so I used my left arm and hand to swat it away however I could. Some of his strikes got through, landing stinging blows on my torso. However, he suddenly performed a feint, starting to stab, but then pulling the foil away from me. I was caught unprepared as the foil slapped me across the face like a stick.

I yelped in pain, the strike leaving a long narrow red welt on my cheek. As I reeled from the blow, I heard Fluttershy shriek, "James, no!"

I felt a twinge of guilt, feeling bad that Fluttershy had to see me get hurt. Blueblood then smirked, "Hm. How does a peasant counter such rapid blows? Would you care to show me?"

By this point, my anger and irritation was higher than it had been in a long time. I watched and waited as Blueblood moved his foil in for another strike. But as it stabbed at me, I reached out and snatched it out of the air by the blade.

"What?! Release it!" Blueblood demanded, the foil jerking around in my hand like a bird trying to get away. I then stabbed my sword into the ground so I could use my right hand. While glaring at him without blinking once, I held the foil's hilt in one hand and the blade in the other. After around two seconds of straining, I snapped the blade off like a twig, leaving the useless hilt intact.

Blueblood was clearly frightened by the loss of his weapon, the audience gasping as the now disabled foil fell to the ground while I took my sword in hand again. I then began to approach Blueblood without taking my eyes off him once.

"You... You stay away!" Blueblood shrieked, trying to back away. Of course, he was still immensely sore, so it was probably painful just to move his hind legs at all.

Once I had come close enough, I swung my sword with as much force as I could muster, slamming the edge across Blueblood's face. He fell flat on his side, a small trickle of blood oozing from his mouth.

I stood over him, my sword pointing at his face. He then looked up at me with an expression of terror. "Please! No more! I yield!"

After a moment of saying nothing, I spoke, "If you're gonna run, don't let me stop you." And that is just what he did. Without saying a word, Blueblood hastily clamored to his feet before running inside the palace despite the pain he was in. I never saw him again for the rest of the night.

"Coward." I muttered as I hoisted my sword to my shoulder. However, as the seconds went by, I heard a steadily rising noise filling the air. Was it stomping? No, not quite. "Applause?"

As I looked around, the entire audience were stomping the ground with their hooves, generating a noise that was not too different from the clapping of hands. Only this time it was the clopping of hooves.

I noticed Rainbow Dash swoop down to me as Fluttershy followed her. I am impressed they could effectively fly while still wearing those flowing dresses. Rainbow laughed, "Dang, James! I never knew ya had it in you! You totally OWNED his sorry flank!"

Fluttershy then hovered next to me with her hoof on my cheek. "Oh my, that looks like it must sting. Are you all right?"

Now that I had begun to calm down, I actually felt rather bad for how much damage I had done. "I'm OK, Fluttershy. It doesn't hurt that much unless you touch it right now."

There was a flash nearby as Twilight Sparkle seemed to use a teleportation spell to bring herself and the rest of the balcony viewers down to ground level. Luna spoke, "Bravo, James! Who knew you have such skill with a blade?"

I meekly smiled, "Thanks, Luna..."

Twilight asked, "Hey... What's wrong? You won the duel! You should be happy!"

I replied, "It's just... I don't like hurting anyone. I even made the guy bleed... Did I go too far?"

Rarity shook her head, "Nonsense, James. He deserved every blow you made against him. Besides, it's not like you broke his legs or dislocated his jaw.

Pinkie Pie hiccupped, "Nope! You just broke his balls!"

Applejack groaned, "Can we drop the ball jokes now? Anymore and I'll have 'em stuck in my head all night!"

I chuckled lightly, "Sorry for starting that. I just couldn't help making fun of his lack of popularity with the ladies."

Celestia chuckled, "Truly, you shouldn't be feeling bad about this. That duel was the highlight of the gala this year!" I could only avert my eyes out of embarrassment at her praise.

Rarity then asked, "Speaking of him... Princess Celestia, why does he get invited every year? His character is far from being worthy of the Grand Galloping Gala!"

Celestia rolled her eyes, not seeming very happy about it herself. "In all honesty, his stature in Canterlot's society puts him on the list of 'required' attendees. We have to invite him per protocol." She then smiled, "And you are right, James. He is, without a doubt, a lout."

Spike then smiled, "Man, I hope I can be like you when I grow up! A rough tough swordsman who can take on anypony!"

I shook my head and sighed, "I'm not rough or tough at all, Spike. That was all being channeled through anger for what he did to..."

Shining Armor then approached us, "You mean this?" He then threw my robe at me. I caught it in my hands, the gash in it visible for all to see.

Rarity grumbled, "Ugh, that horrid prince. How dare he mar my masterpiece?" She then faced Celestia, "Excuse me, your highness. You would not happen to have any sewing equipment, would you?"

The princess of the sun nodded, "We certainly do. Luna, if you don't mind."

Luna nodded, "Right this way." She began to lead Rarity into the palace.

"James, come along now. And please bring your robe. I can't repair it unless I have it with me." Rarity said to me while looking over her shoulder.

I nodded, "I'll be right there." I then handed my sword to Shining Armor. "Here you go, captain."

He smiled while levitating the sword away from me, "Nice work taking on the prince. Let's chat when you get back." I nodded and hurried along to catch up with Rarity and Luna.

I cannot recall which route we took, but I soon found myself walking long empty dark halls with Luna and Rarity. From where I was, the overall design of the interior was not terribly fancy. The lighting was a bit poor since it was night time, so I could not make out my surroundings that well.

"Are you certain you are leading us down the right path, your highness?" Rarity asked, trying to shine some light with some of her magic by effectively turning her horn into a glow rod.

"Right over here, Rarity." Luna led us to what seemed to be a supply closet. It was fairly spacious inside with enough room to move around in, even for me. "I think this is what you're looking for."

Rarity and I stepped forward and saw that Luna was pointing to a sewing kit. "Perfect! James, if you will?" Rarity spoke with delight.

"OK then." I replied, laying out my robe on a small table with the gash on top.

Rarity began looking back and forth at the robe and several spools of thread. "Hmm... Yes, this will do nicely." She levitated a sewing needle with a dark blue spool of thread and prepared the needle with it. She then began to stitch the gash shut, the color of the thread blending in well. "That should do it."

I examined the area around where the gash had been and found that the stitching was nigh undetectable. "I can hardly see... Wait, where'd it go?" I asked, losing sight of the stitching.

Rarity giggled, "That's the point!"

Luna smiled as she put the sewing equipment away while I slid my robe back on and placed my glasses back on my face. "Just follow me and I'll lead you back to the gala."

Right after we left the closet, Rarity spoke, "Your highness, wait."

Luna and I stopped and turned to face her. Rarity then looked up at me and smiled, "James... I am honored by how hard you fought to protect my honor out there. You truly are a fine gentleman." She then asked, "To that effect... May I ask you for the honor to have you as my knight for the evening?"

I pondered what she meant by this before asking, "Hang on... Are you asking me out on a date?" Luna chuckled at my words.

Rarity smiled sheepishly, "In a sense, yes."

I felt a slight increase in my body temperature. Did Rarity have a crush on me? It was awkward enough when Twilight did, and I honestly do not find myself particularly attractive. "Um... Are you sure Fluttershy won't mind?"

Rarity chuckled, "It's not what you think, darling. Just some personal time between friends. I'll have a word with her."

Luna spoke, "The gala doesn't last all night, you two. Let's hurry back to enjoy what time we have left." Rarity and I looked at each other before nodding. We then followed Luna down the hall back towards the festivities on the ground floor.

At the main hall, we found Celestia with my six other friends and Shining Armor. Luna spoke, "We're back! Did we miss anything?"

Celestia smiled, "Oh, not much. We were just waiting for you." She then seemed to eye my robe. "Hm. I can't even tell where it was torn."

I replied, "That's because Rarity is a master of the needle and thread."

Shining Armor then approached me, "So, James. I just want to say how thoroughly impressed I was at how well you handled the prince out there. Tell me again. Who tutored in how to use a sword?"

I replied honestly, "Nobody."

Shining Armor flashed me a perplexed expression. "Really? Well, what particular style was that you were using?"

I replied again, "It wasn't. I just improvised."

All of my friends looked on in shock. Armor then asked, "What?! Seriously?! But... Where did you learn how to fight?"

I was starting to feel embarrassed by all this attention, but I replied anyway. "Over ten years of analyzing various styles of swordplay."

Armor suddenly laughed, "Really?! That's it?! How many styles have you seen and analyzed?"

I tried thinking this answer over carefully. Having played many video games that featured swordplay as the main means of attack, I have seen many different styles. "Uh... Well over thirty. Maybe over fifty. I really don't know."

Shining Armor stared at me with a look that said 'Holy hell, man', as if he was struggling to find the right words to use. He finally muttered, "Dang... Maybe I should have the guards try that..."

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed Rarity locked in conversation with Fluttershy. I felt a twinge of worry, but remained silent. Eventually, they turned to face me. Rarity smiled, "James? Fluttershy has given us her consent."

I asked, "Huh? Really?"

Fluttershy nodded with a smile, "It's just for a little while. And it's just some time spent between friends. I don't see anything wrong with that."

I felt a wave of relief wash over me. I then kneeled down and placed a kiss on Fluttershy's cheek. "Let's spend time together right after that."

Fluttershy smiled with a faint blush, "I love you, honey."

"I love you too, baby." I replied, embracing her for a moment.

"Hey, where's Pinkie Pie?" Rainbow Dash asked out of nowhere.

In the next room over, we heard that crazy party animal's voice speaking over an intercom system. "Come on, everypony! Let's get down! Woooo!"

I facepalmed, "WHY did I give her that drink?!"

Applejack groaned, "Ugh, I'll go grab 'er." She then ran off towards what I think was the ballroom.

Rarity chuckled uneasily, "Well... Why don't we go in the other direction instead?"

I nodded, "Sounds good, m'lady. Lead on."

As we approached the door that led out into another part of the courtyard, Rarity stood by it while looking at me. She then tilted her towards the door. I realized what she wanted and smiled. "Allow me."

I grabbed the door's handle and pulled it open. "Thank you, James. You truly are a gentleman." Rarity spoke with a smile as I followed her outside.

"Ooh, aren't those roses just lovely?" Rarity asked as she approached a bush adorned with thornless red roses.

I examined them closely, but then noticed that Rarity's eyes were looking upward. As if she was trying to see something on her mane. I then understood what she was thinking and snapped a rose off of the bush and shortened its stem.

"I know where they would look even better." I spoke with a smile before placing it on her mane next to her ear.

Rarity seemed surprised that I had done such a thing without her even having to ask. "James... Thank you." She spoke with what seemed to be a faint blush.

I bowed, "It is an honor, m'lady."

Rarity was unusually quiet as we went along. She seemed to be lost in thought about something, so I decided to not bother her. We eventually came to a more open area where various couples were seated around on red velvet pillows. They were either locked in conversation or watching and listening to the same quartet of ponies playing music in the center. The sight of the musicians filled me with a feeling of anxiety. If they were out here instead of in the ballroom like they were earlier, then just what kind of havoc is Pinkie Pie wreaking in there?!

I grabbed a pair of pillows from a table that was covered with them and followed Rarity to an area that offered a great view of the band. "This spot will do nicely." She spoke with a smile.

I then set the two pillows down a short distance apart from each other and took my seat on one. Rarity smiled, "Thank you for bringing one for me. That's three things you did for me tonight that Blueblood did not."

I asked, "Three?"

Rarity nodded, "He took a rose for himself, forced me to open the door for him, and only brought a pillow for himself. Among a few other things."

I rolled my eyes, "You would think someone with the title of 'prince' would know something about chivalry."

Rarity nodded, "Yes, it is quite hypocritical of him. I would be pleased if I never had to lay eyes on him again."

As we watched the quartet play, Rarity leaned towards me and spoke, "That's Beauty Brass on the sousaphone, Frederic Horseshoepin on the piano, Harpo on the harp, and Octavia on the cello. They perform here every year. Quite a team, are they not?"

I nodded, "Quite." My gaze fell upon the cello player in particular. Octavia was her name, as Rarity just spoke. She had her eyes closed as she played, her cutie mark being a treble clef. She was wearing a white collar with a pink bow on the front. Her coat is a pale gray while her mane and tail are a darker shade of gray with a brighter tint to it. Her mane is very long and beautifully kempt, reaching past her shoulders. As the song came to a close, she opened her eyes, which are a faded purple. They were calm and serene, being only half open as she gazed out at her audience. In my eyes, she was the most beautiful earth pony I had seen so far.

"Octavia is quite lovely." I spoke.

Rarity smiled, "Yes, she truly is. And the sounds coming from her cello are quite chilling, are they not?"

I chuckled, "You'd be surprised how a cello can sound. I've seen someone play the cello in such a way that it sounded like an electric guitar."

Rarity glanced at me, "Truly? A cello sounding like an electric instrument? How bizarre!"

The next song the quartet played was very mellow and warm, almost like a love song. Rarity and I listened quietly, our eyes directed at the quartet. But after a short while, Rarity asked, "James... May I ask you something personal?"

I nodded while looking at her out of the corner of my eye. "Sure."

A rather somber expression was on her face. "If... And this is just an 'if'... If you had not gone to move in with Fluttershy and chose to remain with me..." She then looked directly at me, "Do you think things would be different between us now?"

I felt myself beginning to sweat at that question. "I honestly don't know... Why do you ask?"

Rarity sighed, "It's just...there are times when my mind wanders. You have been a wonderful friend to me, James. And there are times where I wonder what could have been." She then directed her gaze skyward, "Would we still be friends? Would we be a couple right now? I just don't know..."

I felt uneasy about this. As much as I adore Rarity, Fluttershy is the girl I love more than anything. I asked, "Rarity... Do you love me?"

She sighed, "I would be lying if I said I do not. You have become an important part of my life, James. And I am grateful to have you." She then set her right hoof on my hand, the opal-studded silver bracelet I had bought for her still being worn on it.

I sighed, "I'm not sure you would want me in the long run. I have a lot of flaws..."

Rarity chuckled, "Oh, yes. I've noticed them. You can fail to think some things through at times before acting. You have low self-esteem. You dwell heavily on things. And you are very hard on yourself when you feel you have wronged somepony. At least, I think those are all of them." She then smiled warmly at me, "But you have more than enough good things about you that overshadow your flaws. You're a wonderful person, James. Do not fault yourself so much."

I sighed, still not feeling very proud of myself. However, Rarity then leaned against me. "I love you, darling. And I always will."

"But... Fluttershy..." I replied, fearful that if her feelings for me became too strong, it would cause a rift between them.

"Oh, James. You know I can't go against Fluttershy's wishes. She's been my best friend for quite some time. She is your betrothed and I must respect that."

I slowly wrapped my arm around Rarity and held her close to me. "You're my best friend, Rarity..."

The lovely unicorn mare sighed, "You have no idea how honored I am to hear that." After a moment longer, Rarity asked, "Now that I think about it, was Fluttershy your very first love?"

Those words caused a dull pain to strike me in my heart as unpleasant memories came flooding back to me. If I have ever written in my previous entries that may have pointed to me having never had a girlfriend or anything similar..... I am sorry. I lied.

"No..." I replied quietly.

Rarity clearly noticed that I had become distraught. "Darling, what's wrong?"

I replied, "Too many memories..."

Rarity then moved closer to me. "If it helps, can you tell me about it? Like... Who was your first love?"

At this point, I wanted to do anything to shake off these unpleasant memories. So I decided to try venting with her. "Her name was... I don't really care enough to recall... But...she was the best thing to ever happen to me."

Rarity's expression became one of deep concern. "Then...what went wrong?"

I sighed, "I fell in love with her before I even knew what she looked like. We lived hundreds of miles apart, but it didn't matter. I confessed to her my feelings after a few months of waiting. And I eventually found out that she had come to develop feelings for me too before I even told her."

Rarity smiled, "Sounds like a match made in heaven. Mutual love is always important in any relationship."

I smiled slightly, "When she heard my voice for the first time, she said she was on cloud nine. She was shy at first, but the more we talked, the more she opened up. I helped her with all sorts of problems, helping heal old emotional scars that she had suffered throughout her life." I then bowed my head. "She even told me during a late night phone call, that on a scale of one to ten, her life had improved by fifty since meeting me."

I looked at Rarity to see that her jaw was hanging open. "Rarity?"

The white unicorn manually closed her jaw with her hoof. "My word... Fifty out of ten? That... I'm impressed. I always knew you were a fine man, James. But... That is astounding! Well... How long were you together?"

I sighed, "Three years... I was always faithful to her... Never wavering. I never once considered for even a minute breaking up with her. She was my angel. The first woman I had ever felt so strongly for."

Rarity then spoke with a hint of hesitation in her voice, "Then...what went wrong?"

I bluntly replied, "Her family and friends."

Rarity remained silent for a moment. "Wait..... Her friends? And her family? How could they possibly be a problem?"

I sighed, "They hated me. Not because of my character. But because of my age. Our age is six years apart. I was always kind to her. I never forced her to do anything. I even tried to give her as much control over a situation as possible. But... They never once judged me by my character. Only by my age. They had never even met me, yet they..."

I heard Rarity growl, "That... How dare they... What prejudice is this?! I can understand judging a child by their age because of their immaturity, but judging a grown man by his age?! Six isn't even that large of an age gap! If it was eight or nine, then yes, it may seem odd. But... That..." I leaned away from Rarity at that moment. I could not believe how disgusted she looked and how vocal she was being. "If I was there to see them... Ugh, the things I would do to those idiots! You do NOT judge anyone by age! Only by character! That's nothing short of discrimination!"

As touched as I was by Rarity's support, I noticed that quite a few ponies around us had begun to stare. "Uh... Rarity?" I muttered.

She looked around, her face changing to one of embarrassment. "Oops... I will...uh...keep my voice down from now on."

I then sighed, "No matter what she told her friends about me, they always were against us just because of my age. And her family... Don't get me started on her father. I have never met a man so unpleasant in my life. Irrational, irritable, and always blaming things on those he does not know well even when that person tries to help. Even if he tries to be good to her by buying her all sorts of stuff, he still has a long history of violence and uncouth behavior that I just can't ignore. He nearly hit her with a heavy metal space heater and nearly beat one of the family's pets to death. And finally, when she tried to hurt herself out of stress caused by daily arguments with him, with one being over a missing hairclip, he sent her to an asylum instead of trying to calm her down like a responsible parent should."

Rarity seemed utterly shocked by my words. "How... What... I have never heard of such a monster..."

I held my face in one hand. "After my first visit with her, our relationship fell apart. She hid from me for a week..." I sighed, "She said she loved my touch... She gave me my first kiss... It was....a wonderful time being with her..." I then gritted my teeth, "I became distraught from being kept in the dark over why she left me. When we finally got in touch with each other after a week of silence, we said such angry words to each other." Tears had begun to roll down my cheeks, the scars in my mind still there. "It was over... All because of those idiots who refused to judge me for what I am on the inside..."

Out of nowhere, I felt Rarity embrace me. "You are right. They are all idiots. They cannot tell her how to live her life. And if they really are her friends and family, they should respect her choices." She then gave me a harsh glare. "Do not blame yourself for what happened, darling. It was outside your control. She was born to the wrong family and made the wrong friends. It was....." She then moved her hoof along my cheek. "James... Are you crying?"

I looked away, "How can I not?"

Rarity then moved my face before I was looking at her once more. She then shocked me with a kiss on my lips. "Do not cry, darling. No matter what happened back then, you are safe with us. Equestria is a land where no such ridiculous mindsets exist. And remember, you have Fluttershy. She loves you for what you are. And you can't choose who you fall in love with." She then confidently smirked, "And if anypony has a problem with that, they will have to get through us first."

Even though the pain of my memories were still present, I felt immense gratitude for Rarity's support. I embraced her as tightly as I could, squeezing tears out of my eyes. "Thank you..."

Rarity smiled, "You are very welcome... A wonderful man like you deserves to be loved..." She then rested her head on my shoulder. "It seems we all got what we came for this year. Twilight spent quality time with Princess Celestia, Applejack made a hefty profit from her sales, Rainbow Dash spent time with the Wonderbolts, Fluttershy made friends with the animals in the garden, Pinkie Pie managed to have a good time... Although I must wonder if she is even going to remember tonight tomorrow morning..." That last bit made me chuckle.

However, Rarity then sighed happily, "And I finally found my prince."

I said nothing as I think a blush spread across my face. She then whispered into my ear, "James... Never change." I nodded in silence, my hands caressing her back.

After spending what I believe was close to an hour with Rarity, we reunited with our friends at the main hall. Fluttershy smiled, "Did you two have a good time?"

Rarity nodded, "It was an enlightening experience." However, she then looked Fluttershy in the eye. She spoke quietly, but I still heard her. "Don't ever leave James, dear. He needs you."

Fluttershy seemed puzzled by Rarity's words. "Did something bad happen out there, Rarity?"

Rarity smiled while looking over her shoulder at me. "Let's just say I learned more than I expected." I smiled back at her with a nod.

It seemed that all of the GGG's attendees had finally arrived and had gotten settled in since neither Celestia nor Luna was standing at the top of the stairwell anymore. The royal sisters seemed to be locked in conversation with Twilight Sparkle at the base of the stairs.

"Yeah! I teleported Rarity, Spike, Rainbow Dash, and myself from there to... Oh, hey there, James!" Twilight spoke as I walked up behind her.

"Hey there, Twi. Having a good time?" I replied with a wave.

"The whole night's been great! Much better than the last time!" Twilight said with a bright smile.

Celestia nodded, "I concur. It's been great, even if somewhat less chaotic than the last... Oop, never mind about that." She was cut off by the sound of a distant crash in the ballroom, probably a result of Pinkie Pie's semi-drunken antics.

"Well.... At least she's not complaining, right?" I replied with a nervous chuckle, knowing it was my fault that she ended up that way.

When Twilight looked away from Celestia to speak with Luna, I approached Celestia. I had thanked Luna for bringing me to Equestria, but I had yet to personally thank Celestia. "Celestia? May I have a word with you in private?" I whispered to her.

The princess of the sun nodded before looking towards Twilight and Luna. "Excuse me for a minute, ladies. James and I need to discuss something." Twilight and Luna nodded in unison before going right back to their conversation.

Celestia led me out into the palace garden where there were no other gala attendees to interrupt us. "I don't think we've spent any personal time together yet, James. This is a pleasant surprise."

I nodded, "Yeah..."

Celestia, being the wise pony she is, was quick to notice that I was not entirely happy. "Is something troubling you? I don't think I've ever seen you look this insecure."

I felt some tears welling up in my eyes again as the memories came back to me. "I... I just wanted to thank you for bringing me here, Celestia. You couldn't have chosen a better time to do it."

She smiled compassionately, "I do think Luna and I made a good choice by selecting you. I've been hearing nothing but praise about you from Twilight."

I continued, "It's not just that... I was going through... I'm glad I met..." My voice had begun to break, my tears beginning to stream down my cheeks.

Celestia seemed mildly alarmed at the sight of my tears. "James? Are you all right?"

I could only stammer a bit. "Celestia... Permission to embrace you?"

The princess of the sun stared at me for a moment with a concerned frown, but soon smiled warmly. "Permission not needed."

It was all I needed to hear. I walked over to her and threw my arms around her neck, just letting my tears fall while trying to not burst out sobbing with carefully controlled breathing. I felt Celestia wrap one of her forelegs around me, her hoof against my lower back. "Just remember, if you have nopony else to turn to, you can always come to me." She spoke softly.

"Thank you... Celestia..." I muttered through my tears.

The hours rolled by, the lot of us just having fun together and enjoying each other's company with all of their friends and family. Before we even knew what time it was, the clock struck 1 AM.

"Whoa. Where'd the time go?!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she realized what time it was.

"Well, that's what happens when you spend time with friends. It flies by as fast as I do." Spitfire replied with a chuckle.

Fancy Pants let out a yawn, "Indeed. Although I do believe it is time I departed. It is much too late for a gentleman to stay up. Shall we get together another time?"

Rarity smiled, "Oh, it would be wonderful for us all to get together again."

Shining Armor smiled, "It was awesome to see you all again. And I'm really glad I got to meet you, James."

Cadence nodded, "Me too. I hope we can get together again sometime, James."

I nodded and shook their hooves. "I'm glad I got to meet you too. It was a pleasure."

One by one, we saw our friends off. By the time they had all departed, the palace had become rather quiet. Spike in particular was out like a light, just lying across Twilight's back while fast asleep.

Applejack yawned, "Well, I think I've had enough partyin' fer one night."

Pinkie Pie giggled, "What're you talking about?! This party's just getting started! Wooo! Part..." She collapsed on the floor, her drink having finally run its course. "Urgh... My head..."

Fluttershy spoke, "You sound like you have a hangover. Did you drink any water?"

Twilight rolled her eyes, "She'll be fine. But we should be going now, right?"

However, Celestia spoke up. "Actually, with it being this late, would you all prefer to stay the night in the palace?"

We all looked at each other in surprise before Twilight asked, "Really?!"

Luna smiled, "It will take well over an hour to get back to Ponyville if you leave now. Why not stay the night? We have plenty of guest rooms."

Applejack grinned, "That's a might generous of ya, yer highness. And I'll admit, we're a might tuckered too."

I smiled, "I wouldn't mind staying the night. I can pick up Scootaloo tomorrow morning or afternoon."

Celestia smiled, "Right then. Let me show you to your rooms." We then followed Celestia and Luna up the stairs and into the main bulk of the palace once again.

At this moment, I am resting in bed in a guest room in the palace. The size of this room is still quite spacious compared to how most rooms are in others places in Equestria. The door is big enough to walk through without ducking and the ceiling towers above me. Even the windows are a bit bigger than me. An old-fashioned lantern chandelier hangs from the ceiling as the main source of light, although I am merely using a candle right now. The bed I am in is a large canopy bed, not unlike Rarity's. Dark faded purple curtains are hanging on the walls near the tops of the walls, lending the room a very elegant atmosphere that I am not used to.

Fluttershy is right beside me. She seems very relaxed and has already fallen asleep. I hope her animals can manage without us until we get home tomorrow. I am a bit concerned for Angela, but since she is a bird, she can probably sustain herself with seeds and berries if she gets hungry.

What an evening. So many new faces, finally gave the princely lout the punishment he deserved, and had a genuinely fun time. I must say that this night was quite possibly the best night ever for me. Well, since arriving in Equestria, that is.

My days in Equestria just keep getting better. I am most curious of what the future holds, but it can be nothing but good as long as Equestria remains the blessed paradise it is. Right?

Still, I am only just now starting to truly grasp how grateful I am for Celestia and Luna's intervention in my life. I am far better off here than I ever was back on Earth. I have friends who will never leave me that I will never give up on. And I have the greatest girlfriend I could ask for.

Now I must sleep. Partying that long and this late really takes a toll on you. Still... I am getting a strange foreboding feeling. Is something odd going to happen soon?

Heh, I am probably just expecting Pinkie Pie to try something crazy upon waking up. Let me write a quick note here before I go to sleep.

Pinkie Pie + alcoholic beverages = bad things. That should get my point across to myself in the future if I ever read this again.