Anymore, I'm not surprised when I start the game and there's knocking on my character's bedroom door. I even expect to hear a voice from the other side of it.

In this case, it's Pinkie Pie, who says, “Mormon, could I come in and talk with you for a moment before we go to breakfast?”

My character gets out of bed, then goes to and opens his door, allowing Pinkie Pie to enter. When she's inside and my character closes the door behind her, I ask her, “Is there something wrong?”

The pink earth pony marches over to my character's bed, jumps on it, turns to my character, reclines into a sphinx-style position, and, looking down apparently at the edge of the bed, sighs before saying, “I've actually known for a long time that something was wrong with me, and it was only yesterday that I found out there was a name and a treatment for it.” At this point, she looks up at my character as she says, “It's been a week now since that day I threw up in front of everypony, and that was the first time since I was a sick foal that something like that had happened. And then it was stomach flu. A week ago, I just suddenly didn't feel good. Then, there was yesterday.” Again she looks down as she continues, “I had no idea eating so much candy could do that to a pony.”

I answer, “Too much of anything can hurt anyone. And, often it doesn't take a lot of candy to be too much.”

Pinkie Pie states, “I learned that the hard way.” She looks up at my character again as she continues, “I didn't think the candy I'd kept under the bed in my room at Sugar Cube Corner was going to do that to me. And, I didn't have anywhere near that much yesterday at the party before I got sick again. I threw up one more time before the doctor gave me a blood test, and that time it really made my tummy hurt. The doctor must've seen that I wasn't feelin' good, because he gave me a bucket to throw up in. Then, when I was done, he looked inside, then called a nurse to study it, and I think that's why he gave me the blood test. Then, even though I could hear the doctor, suddenly it was like I couldn't hear him. I think he called my name, but I can't remember right now. I couldn't think straight.

“I think the doctor said I was dying of kitty-acid-something-or-other. He stuck me in one of my forelimbs with a needle, and I started feeling better. Then you came in; and I understood when the doctor said I had diabetes.” Still looking in my character's direction, she rests her head over one forelimb and concludes, “I'm really scared right now. I like candy, but I'm not sure I'm gonna be able to eat it again. I don't know if there's anything I can eat that won't make me sick again.”

I have my character sit on the bed next to Pinkie Pie and start stroking her mane as I say, “This is something I don't have experience with. The best I can offer right now is that we take it one day at a time, handle problems as they come. As for things you can eat that won't make you sick, I'm sure there are plenty of fruits and vegetables you can eat at least growing around here, as well as oats, that you can eat without getting sick. Beyond that, we'll just have to see what happens.” At this point, I have my character stand up and walk to the door as I say, “Now, let's go get some breakfast. I'm sure apples won't be a problem for you.” I don't have my character walk through the door, at least not yet.

As she sees my character waiting for her, Pinkie Pie rises again and sighs, then says, “Alright, Mormon. Let's go have some breakfast.” And, with that, she jumps off the bed and trots past my character into the hallway, then toward and into the kitchen.

My character follows after her, closing his bedroom door behind him.

For breakfast, it's evidently an assortment of fruits that I'm guessing were gathered from the orchard and vineyard by Lyra and Weed Whacker.

I notice that Pinkie Pie eats a little more slowly than usual. Evidently, having been diagnosed with diabetes, if not strictly her experience of yesterday afternoon, has had quite an impact on her.

After breakfast, Pinkie Pie, Lyra, Weed Whacker and my character head out to travel through the Everfree forest on our way to Ponyville.

It seems to make Pinkie Pie especially happy that she doesn't get sick on her way through the forest.

When the group gets to the opening of the forest, maybe thirty or forty minutes after leaving the house, Rainbow Dash is there to meet them.

She looks at my character and says, “Mormon, could I borrow Pinkie Pie for a moment? The two of us have something we need to talk about.”

I know what Rainbow Dash wants to talk to Pinkie Pie about, and I also know, as well as Pinkie Pie, Lyra, and Weed Whacker, that I've gotten three tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala, one for my character, one for Lyra, and one for Weed Whacker. But, that last thing is something that Rainbow Dash and the rest of the element bearers, other than Pinkie Pie, don't know. And, remembering what happened in the episode “The Best Night Ever,” I seem to remember that Spike, the only non-pony in the group, is the only one that doesn't wear clothes, and he spends most, if not all, his time in Canterlot at the doughnut shop. I don't expect Weed Whacker to get any clothing, and I'm sure the suit I've provided for my character will be fancy enough for the event. And so, that just leaves Lyra.

Pinkie Pie looks at me as though asking for permission to go.

I say to her, “Go on ahead. We'll go on to town square, and you can meet up with us there when Rainbow Dash is finished talking with you.”

Rainbow Dash, as soon as Pinkie Pie joins her, answers, “Oh, I'm sure it won't take that long. It's just some news I need to give Pinkie that's just between me and her. You can just head to Sugar Cube Corner and wait for her there.”

I state, “Yeah, we can just as easily wait for her in the town square. It isn't all that far away from Sugar Cube Corner, and, like I said, Pinkie Pie can meet up with us there when the two of you are finished talking.”

Rainbow Dash looks at the pale-green unicorn, then at the dinosaur on her back, then at the human again, and finally says, “Whatever. Like I said, it won't take very long for me to tell Pinkie Pie what I need to tell her. You do whatever you want.”

In silent agreement, I have my character lead my two other friends to the town square, where we take a seat near where my character sat the game's yesterday, while Lyra and Weed Whacker take seats around the same table.

Lyra leans toward my character and asks, under her breath, “Do you think they're going to talk about something having to do with the Gala in Canterlot?”

I answer, in a tone to match Lyra's, “It wouldn't surprise me.” I don't dare say more than that, at least not in such a public setting. And, right now, I'm surprised a waiter hasn't offered to take orders from the three sitting at the table.

Lyra continues, “It sounds like Rainbow Dash doesn't know yet that we also have tickets.”

I say, “If she does know, she's keeping the secret pretty well. Which makes sense, considering what I heard about what happened when it was revealed about Twilight Sparkle having two tickets.”

Just then, I hear a familiar voice ask, “Tickets to what?”

My character turns to the source of the voice to show me the waitress from the game's yesterday, the one that served my character the orange juice. I just grunt in curiosity.

The waitress answers, “I heard you say something about having tickets.”

I decide to have a little fun as I say, “Yeah, and we need to get them taken care of as soon as possible.” Not exactly a lie, but a statement with misleading connotations.

And, it seems to work, as the waitress, after a momentary pause, says, “Oh, I didn't realize.”

Before she can say anymore, I hear Pinkie Pie's voice behind my character say, “I'm here!”

My character turns to the pink pony, and I say, “Good. So, shall we go to Sugar Cube Corner, then?”

Pinkie Pie smiles and says, “Let's get going.”

I have my character stand up and turn to the waitress as I say, “I'm sorry I don't have time to order anything this time. Maybe next time.”

Something about the look on the waitress pony's face tells me that tickets are given out for offenses greater than I realize. She runs off, leaving the party of four to head to the bakery, not far from the spot where I chose to wait for Pinkie Pie.

On the way there, Pinkie Pie turns to my character and says, “We need to talk. Hopefully we can use my room at Sugar Cube Corner.”

I have my character nod in agreement, and no more is said until the group reaches the front door of the bakery and enters.

The blue earth mare, Mrs. Cake, is at the cash register, while the orange earth stallion, Mr. Cake, is checking the pastries in the displays.

Pinkie Pie leads the way through the main room, then up the stairs, as she says, “I hope you don't mind us using my old room. We just have something we need to discuss.”

Pinkie Pie has already made it halfway up the stairs before we hear Mr. Cake call out, “Pinkie Pie, wait! You can't go in there just yet!”

By the time Mr. Cake is finished talking, Pinkie Pie is already at the door to her room. Reaching for the doorknob, she asks, “Why? What's wrong?” My character is right next to her as she opens the door, so I can see, through his eyes, the pink earth mare almost instantly cover her nose and mouth with the hoof she used to open the door as she groans, “Eww, gross! Did somepony make a poop in my room?”

I have my character look into the room, and sure enough, a little more than the distance of the length of a foal pony from the bed is a thick but small puddle of greenish-brown feces, somewhat dried up. I have him turn back to Pinkie Pie, and I say, “It looks like.”

I have to wonder if the hoof-falls sound effect is either not available or not being accessed as I hear Mr. Cake's voice, much closer this time, say, “That's what I was trying to warn you about.”

Pinkie Pie asks, “What happened in there?”

I ask in response, “Isn't this the room Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon used to put on their dresses for the Cute-seniera yesterday?”

Mr. Cake answers, “That's right.”

Pinkie Pie asks, “So, what, you're saying either Diamond Tiara or Silver Spoon made a poop in my room?”

I repeat, “That's what it looks like.”

I hear Lyra ask, “Well, great, now what do we do?”

I think out loud, “I suppose we could air out the room, either while or before Pinkie Pie tells us what she and Rainbow Dash talked about.” And, in the mean time, I prevent a curious Weed Whacker from getting too far into the room.

The female dinosaur, being gripped by human hands and suspended above the ground, groans in disappointment and frustration.

Mr. Cake says, “Well, if you still want to have your meeting here, then I won't stop you. But, while we're converting the room next to this one into a nursery, I could still offer you that room for you to hold your meeting, if you'd prefer a clean room.”

Pinkie Pie says, “I think we'll stick with my old room. We'll go with Mormon's idea and open a window so the room can air out, but it should still give us enough privacy so I can tell my friends here what I need to tell them without anypony else hearing.”

Mr. Cake sighs and says, “It's your choice.”

Taking that as affirmation, I have my character put Weed Whacker down next to Lyra, then enter the room and go to the window in the back and open it.

Pinkie Pie, Lyra, and Weed Whacker follow my character, and Lyra groans with disgust at the smell of the feces in the room.

In the mean time, Pinkie Pie lingers long enough to close the door behind Weed Whacker, who once again proceeds toward the pile of feces.

This time, it's Lyra who herds her away, and once again the herbivorous dinosaur groans in disappointment at not being able to investigate the mess.

Once my character's opened the window, the two ponies in the room sigh with relief; and Pinkie Pie says, “Alright, I guess I better give you the news before any of us starts feeling sick.”

Lyra turns to the pink earth pony and starts asking, “Are you sure—“ before the pink earth pony puts a hoof in her mouth, causing Lyra to mumble the rest of her question.

I'm guessing she was going to ask Pinkie Pie if she was going to be alright. From her perspective, a reasonable question, considering what she understands about the incident when she, Pinkie Pie, and my character were preparing, along with the rest of the Mane Six, to face the dragon that had threatened to cover Ponyville with a cloud of black smoke from his snoring.

Now, back to the present story, Pinkie Pie says, “Rainbow Dash said Rarity's making dresses for me and her and the rest of the element bearers.”

I think aloud, “I'm guessing they're for that Gala in Canterlot.”

Pinkie Pie says, “That's what Dashie said.”

Lyra remarks, “You know, since Mormon, Weed Whacker and I are also going, Weed Whacker and I need dresses. But, I'm guessing Mormon's gonna need a suit.”

At this point, I answer, “I'm thinking I'll be fine with a suit I've brought with me.”

Weed Whacker, seeming worried about one thing, and perhaps saddened by another, says, “I don't think I'd be comfortable wearing clothes.”

Lyra says, “So, I guess that just leaves me.”

Before the rest of us can say anything more, Pinkie Pie says, “The reason I brought this up was because I want Mormon with me when we see the dresses Rarity made for us.”

Now, Lyra asks, “Well, what about me and Weed Whacker?”

I have my character look at the unicorn and the dinosaur as I answer, “Well, I guess the possibility of you two going with us depends on if Pinkie Pie is ready to let her friends know about us also having tickets to the Gala, although maybe that doesn't have to be part of the decision.”

Pinkie Pie says, “I think it's best if just Mormon comes with.” Looking at Lyra, she continues, “You and Weed Whacker can wait just outside while we have our first look at the dresses.” Turning back to my character, she continues, "I'm sure Rarity won't mind me bringing my bestest human friend along. It's just that, well, more than one bestest friend other than us element bearers might be pushin' it. After all, as much as I'd like Rarity and the others to know that all of you have tickets to the Gala, I just don't think now's the time to tell them. Besides, I want a human's opinions on the dresses first.” Turning back to Lyra and Weed Whacker, she concludes, “I'll be happy to get your opinions later.”

I happen to look at the unicorn and the dinosaur, and I can see more easily Lyra emoting disappointment at the news.

Still, she says, “Well, alright, Pinkie. I suppose Weed Whacker and I can wait.”

At this point, Pinkie Pie proceeds to the door and says, “So, it's settled then. In the mean time, we have work to do in the bakery. And, I could use everypony's, everyone's, help getting things ready and running smoothly.”

I need to keep an eye on Pinkie Pie, but I decide I don't need to let Lyra and Weed Whacker know that, or why I need to do that. I ask, “Is there anything in particular you need me to do, Pinkie?”

Pinkie Pie has long since pulled her hoof out of Lyra's mouth, but she uses that hoof to tap her chin as she grunts in uncertainty, then puts the hoof down again as she says, smiling, “I'll let Mr. Cake decide on how you can help, alright, Mormon?”

I answer, “Sure. That'll be fine.”

With all decisions evidently made, Pinkie Pie directs my character to close the window to her room, then opens the door to let the rest of us out, after which she follows, closing the door behind her.

The group makes its way to the kitchen, where each requests and accepts assignments from Mr. Cake, and proceeds to fulfill their assignment.

I'll say this for the subsequent hour: it passes quickly with all members of the group active in helping the Cakes. Weed Whacker gets the ingredients, Pinkie Pie does the cooking, Lyra does the taste testing, and my character takes the finished products out to Mrs. Cake, who puts them on their designated shelves. In the mean time, Mr. Cake works at the cash register.

There is a minor incident when Silver Spoon shows up requesting a pastry.

I recognize the gray earth filly's voice, but I'm not sure I want to mention it to Pinkie Pie.

On the other hand, Mr. Cake, who recognizes her immediately, asks, “So, Silver Spoon, where's Diamond Tiara?”

Almost instantly Pinkie Pie is right there next to Mr. Cake glaring at the gray filly and saying, “We really need to have a word with the two of you. Are you the one that made a poop in my old room?”

Silver Spoon stammers, “I … well, I, uh, … well, you see … “ before lowering her head and finally saying, “Yeah, I did it.”

Pinkie Pie circles around Mr. Cake and the counter holding the cash register, and I watch, through my character's eyes, as her glare morphs into an expression something like sadness or concern, as she asks, “Why would you do such a thing?”

Silver Spoon starts whimpering as she says, “I knew I shouldn't have let Diamond Tiara talk me into going to her Cute-seniera when I wasn't feeling good.”

Something about Silver Spoon's declaration strikes me as not truthful. I find myself thinking aloud, “That's strange. The two of you seemed perfectly fine yesterday. If you had diarrhea, you should've been making a mess all over the place, not just in Pinkie Pie's old bedroom.”

At my statement, Pinkie Pie once again glares at Silver Spoon and asks, no, growls, “Where's Diamond Tiara?”

Just at that moment, the little pink earth filly marches into the bakery, slamming the door open in front of her, and screams, “Silver Spoon, what's taking you so long with my eclair?” Then, as she notices that the attention of every creature in the room, except for that of Silver Spoon, is focused on her, she asks in the most innocent tone she can muster, “What?”

Before the little filly can move, Pinkie Pie runs the few hoof-steps toward her and grabs her ear in her mouth, then drags her to and up the stairs as she says, “You're coming with me. I have something to show you.” She talks like Daffy Duck when her tongue is paralyzed, but, through teeth gripping a filly's ear, she has no trouble speaking clearly. How does that work?

I have my character grab Silver Spoon and follow Pinkie Pie up the stairs before the gray filly can escape.

In the mean time, Pinkie Pie manages to drag Diamond Tiara up the stairs and into her old room with little or no effort, despite the pink filly trying desperately to get away.

When the four are in the room, my character still holding Silver Spoon, Pinkie Pie says, “Mormon, close the door.”

I have my character follow the pink party pony's instructions, then set Silver Spoon back on the ground.

Having pretty much guaranteed privacy for the group, Pinkie Pie lets go of Diamond Tiara's ear, points the little filly's head at the pile of feces on the ground using her hooves, and says, “I think I deserve an explanation.”

Diamond Tiara, struggling to get out of the party pony's grip, says, “Pinkie Pie, I'm surprised at you. Pooping in your own room, then blaming me for it? Shame on you!”

I decide to speak up, as I say, “That's not the kind of mess Pinkie Pie would make. Considering all she eats, if she were to make that kind of a mess, it'd be a lot bigger. And besides, that mess couldn't have been made any time during or after your Cute-seniera, Little Richy.”

Indignant, the little pink filly manages to free herself from Pinkie Pie's grip, although I wouldn't be surprised to find out that Pinkie Pie just let her go. Then, she turns to my character and says, “Don't call me Little Richy! My name is Diamond Tiara.” And, she enunciates her name.

I answer, “Whatever. The fact of the matter is you should take responsibility for your own actions. Silver Spoon tried to cover for you, but her story didn't make any sense, based on what I remembered went on yesterday.”

At this point, Diamond Tiara groans, then asks, “So, what if I did?”

I answer, “The rule of 3-D modeling: Whoever makes the mesh ought to be the one that cleans it up.”

Before further action can be taken, there's a knock on the door; and Mr. Cake calls out, "Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash is here to see you! She says she has something to talk to you about!”

Diamond Tiara tries to make a run for the door. That is, until she sees my character's hand covering the knob.

In the mean time, Pinkie Pie calls out, “I'll come down in a moment! In the mean time, could you get a dust pan, a broom, a bucket of water and cleaner, and a mop and bring them up here? Diamond Tiara has a mess to clean up!”

After a few seconds, Mr. Cake's voice answers, “It'll take a few minutes, but I'll be back as soon as I can!”

I have my character turn his attention to Silver Spoon before I say, “And, as for you, you can help Diamond Tiara clean up her mess.”

The gray filly looks up at my character and asks, “Why do I get punished for what Diamond Tiara did?”

Presently, Diamond Tiara turns to her friend and growls, “Hey!”

I answer, “You tried to cover for her.”

The only thing Silver Spoon can do for a response is sputter and stammer, until she finally groans in defeat and frustration.

Now, the pink filly, pointing to the pile of dried feces on the floor, says, “Well, I hope you're happy, Silver Spoon. Now they know I did that.”

I answer, “Actually, Little Richy, it's because of you that we know.”

Diamond Tiara turns her glare from her friend to my character and asks, “How can you say that?”

I answer, “First of all, when your friend Silver Spoon asked why she should be punished for what you did, you responded. Then, just now, you out-and-out admitted you did it.”

At this point, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon have the same pose. Both remind me of cats that've just seen an explosion at close range, or at least what I expect they'd look like.

And, just now, it seems that Mr. Cake has come with the cleaning supplies Pinkie Pie requested.

As soon as I hear a knock at the door and Mr. Cake's voice saying he's there with the supplies, I have my character turn to Pinkie Pie, who says I should open the door and let Mr. Cake in. A look from my character at the two fillies shows me that they're either unable or unwilling to move from their positions.

As my character opens the door and lets Mr. Cake enter, Pinkie Pie says, “Mormon and I will go talk to Rainbow Dash now. In the mean time, would you stay here and make sure Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon clean up this mess?” And, she points to the pile of dried feces.

As the pink party pony trots out of the room, and my character follows her, Mr. Cake says, “Uh, sure thing, Pinkie.”

And, Pinkie Pie only allows my character to close the door after she sings out, “Thank you.” After that, she bounces to and down the stairs (amazing that she can do that without rolling down them and hurting herself), and to her rainbow-haired friend.

My character, of course, after closing the door to her room, follows closely behind the pink earth mare. He just walks, though.

As soon as she's close enough, Pinkie Pie asks, “So, what's up, Dashie?”

Rainbow Dash, after looking up at my character, then back to her friend, answers, “I'd really rather not say in front of your human friend."

Pinkie Pie covers her mouth and giggles, then leans in towards her friend and whispers, “It's alright. He already knows about our tickets. And, he has one of his own.”

Rainbow Dash looks up at my character again, then back at Pinkie Pie, and whispers back, “Alright. But still, I'd rather just you come with me to Carousel Boutique. If Mormon wants to come with, he can. But, I don't want anypony else to know. So, I'll fill you in when we get there.”

Suddenly, Pinkie pie calls out, “Okie dokie lokie!” and proceeds to bounce into the kitchen.

Rainbow Dash tries to shush her, then wanders into the kitchen after her, facially looking, to me anyway, like a cat that's just been threatened.

My character follows close behind Rainbow Dash.

Once the three are in the kitchen, Pinkie Pie turns to Lyra and Weed Whacker and says, “Dashie, Mormon, and I are going to Carousel Boutique to look at the dresses—“

Before the pink party pony can say anything more, Rainbow Dash shoves a front hoof into her mouth, so all she can do is mumble the rest of her statement. She then chuckles nervously and says, “We're just going to Carousel Boutique for a few minutes. If you two'll cover for Mormon and Pinkie, they'll be back as soon as they can.” She then pulls her front hoof from Pinkie's mouth and proceeds to push her from behind out the door.

As my character follows, I hear Pinkie Pie say, “I'm sorry, Dashie. But, it's not as if they don't have tickets either.”

Rainbow Dash manages to scream under her breath, “What?” before somewhat more calmly asking, “How many more ponies in town have tickets?”

I state, “Rainbow Dash, you and Pinkie Pie can argue about that later. Right now, I'm thinking we need to be getting to the boutique to have a look at the dresses Rarity made for you and your other friends.”

Rainbow Dash looks up at my character and listens to what I have to say, then groans and says, “You're right, Mormon.” She then looks ahead and says, “Let's just get going.”

As the rainbow-haired pegasa takes the lead, my character catches up to Pinkie Pie; and I ask her, “Are you alright?”

The pink earth mare answers, “I'm fine. Let's just go.”

Nothing more is said among the three as they make their way to and into the boutique.

Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy, and Applejack are waiting for Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie to arrive, and are evidently surprised to see a human following close behind them.

Pinkie Pie, seeing the surprise on the faces of her four other friends, says, “Oh, Mormon has a ticket too, and so do Lyra and Weed Whacker.”

After a momentary pause, Rarity says, “Whatever. You've just got to see the dresses I've made for you. I know you'll just love them. Just follow me up the stairs.”

As the Mane Six and my character form a line behind Rarity, I'm careful not to say that I already know how Rarity's friends are going to react to the dresses she made. Having based this day, and the following day, on the episode “Suited for Success,” I'm familiar, both with the results of this event, and with the ultimate result of the entire experience. But, I have no reason to reveal this knowledge to Rarity or any of the other element bearers.

At the top of the stairs, Rarity, in front of the door to her work room, says, “Now, everypony close your eyes.” As she looks up at my character, she adds, “You too, Mormon.”

As my character closes his eyes, I say, “Just as long as I don't bump my head on the doorway, or step on any of you.”

I hear Rarity laugh as she says, “Now, just follow my voice, and I'll lead you into my work room.” And, she continues to talk, instructing each of her friends into the room. She even instructs my character on entering her workroom without hitting his head on the doorway. Then, when all are in the room, she tells us to keep our eyes closed until I can hear her voice to the left of my character, at which point she says, “Now, open your eyes.”

As Rarity describes each of the dresses and the work she put into them for each of her friends, I have my character look at each of the other five to get a look at their expressions.

I seem to remember Applejack saying something about how Rarity was supposed to make a “stunning, one-of-a-kind dress” in a short amount of time. And, from what I can see, the expressions on their faces do demonstrate “stunned.” But, then they make it clear that they aren't the kind of “stunned” that Rarity's looking for.

It takes a few seconds after Rarity's finished with her presentation, but then the other five element bearers him-haw around until Applejack calls the dresses “something,” on which the rest agree.

Pinkie Pie even says, “I love something. Something is my favorite.”

At this point, I say, “Well, Rarity, it's clear to me that you put a lot of thought into each of these dresses. The one with the rainbow colors was clearly meant for Rainbow Dash. And, the pink one with the candy on it was evidently designed with Pinkie Pie in mind. There's obviously symbolism in putting stars on the base of the dress you made for Twilight Sparkle. And, the dress you made for Applejack has an appropriately western theme to it. I'm guessing the green coloring of Fluttershy's dress is to reflect how she likes to make her creatures feel at home. All in all, I'd say you did a really good job with the dresses.”

Fluttershy waits until I'm finished speaking before saying, “It's … nice.” And, there's something in the tone of her voice that suggests to me that she's disappointed in her dress.

Rarity smiles up at my character as she says, “Thank you, Mormon, for your compliments.” Then, as she focuses on the her fellow element bearers, there's genuine concern in her voice as she asks, “But, what about the rest of you? Don't you like the dresses?” I wouldn't be surprised if she also heard the disappointment in Fluttershy's voice.

Twilight apologetically answers, “They're … very nice.”

Applejack adds, “And, we're plum grateful 'cuz you worked so hard on 'em.”

Then, Rainbow Dash says, “Mine's just not as cool as I imagined.”

Now, the rest of the element bearers look at the blue pegasa in clear surprise.

After a few seconds, Rainbow Dash waves a hoof and says, not unlike a child trying to pass the blame on to someone else, “Well, she asked.”

Again apologetically, Twilight Sparkle restates, “I guess what we're saying is they're just not what we had in mind.” And, I'm not sure if she ends her statement with a tremble or a forced giggle.

Whatever it is, the other four agree with Twilight's statement.

As my character focuses on Rarity, I can see that she's upset by not having pleased her friends. But, she forces a smile and says, “Uh, that's okay. No problem. There's plenty more where that came from. They were only a first pass. You're my friends. I want you to be one hundred and ten percent satisfied. Not to worry. I'll re-do them.”

It seems to me, at least from Fluttershy's tone, that she, at least, has heard the attitude in her friend's voice that she's trying to cover her disappointment in a thin shield of forced confidence as she says, “Oh, Rarity, you don't have to do that. They're fine.”

Rarity answers, “I want them to be better than just fine. I want you to think they're absolutely perfect.” And, in the mean time, she starts disassembling the dresses with her magic, starting with Applejack's dress.

I have to wonder if that's what's bothering Applejack as she says, “Are you sure? Ah mean, we wouldn't wanna impose.”

Rarity forces a laugh as she says, “Oh, it's no imposition. Really, I insist.”

As the other four and my character march out of the room, Twilight lingers behind to say, “Well, in that case, thank you again, Rarity.” And, I'm having to wonder if I've missed something. It's either that, or Twilight Sparkle's expression of gratitude to her friend wasn't all that sincere.

But, perhaps even less sincere is Rarity's disturbingly forced giggle as the purple unicorn follows the rest of her friends out the door.

As I see the door close under the influence of Twilight's magic, and sense Pinkie Pie nudging my character out the door, I have my character dodge her long enough for me to say, “If you want my advice, Rarity, start with the dresses you've already made for your friends. They'll tell you what modifications need to be made as you call them in.”

Rarity nods once before saying, “Uh, thanks again for the advice, Mormon.”

Having said to the white unicorn what I wanted to say, I have my character follow the other five element bearers out the door, closing it behind him and Pinkie Pie.

From there on, it's a short amount of time before the group of six, including my character, has made it out the front door of the boutique, at which point Fluttershy says, “Oh, I hope we didn't hurt her too much. I didn't want her to think we were disappointed in her dresses.”

I open my mouth to say something, but Twilight beats me to it, echoing my thoughts as she says, “Well, nopony wanted to hurt her feelings.”

Pinkie Pie looks up at my character and asks, “Do you think she bought what I said?” And, her smile to my character appears unsteady.

I answer, “'Something is my favorite?' Yeah, I'm sure she believed every word of that.”

Clearly the pink party pony catches the sarcasm in my voice, as she looks down and starts sniffling.

And, she's not the only one. The other four are downcast as well.

Fluttershy, after a few seconds, says, “The only one of us that really had nice things to say about the dresses Rarity made was Mormon.”

I answer, “Well, it was clear to me that she put everything she knew about her friends into each of those dresses.” I then have my character turn to the rainbow-haired pegasa as I say, “Oh, and by the way, Rainbow Dash, it's nice to see your wing's healed now.”

Rainbow Dash, clearly weighed down by my comment about the dresses, says, “Uh, thanks. Like I said, I just needed to lose all the broken feathers.” She perks up a little as she adds, “They grew back overnight. Fluttershy let me spend the night at her cottage while the missing feathers grew back.”

Pinkie Pie, evidently lost in my remarks, says, “I guess the dresses weren't all that bad.”

I have my character kneel in front of the pink earth pony as I say, “Personally, I thought the candy corns were a nice touch.” Then, I hear her sniffle again and start whimpering, suggesting to me that what I said was perhaps the wrong thing.

But, before I can say anything further, Sweetie Belle comes out from the door and says, “Uh, Miss Fluttershy, Rarity wants to see you first.”

As the white unicorn foal goes back into the boutique, Fluttershy says, “Well, I guess that means I should go in first. I hope I don't say anything to upset Rarity.”

As the remaining five watch Fluttershy go back inside the boutique, Twilight Sparkle says, “Well, I need to be getting back to the library.”

Applejack says, “Ah ought'a get back to the ranch. Big Mac'll need my help with the apples.” And, with that, she heads back to her house.

Now that the group's down to a human, a pegasa, and an earth pony, Rainbow Dash looks up at my character and says, “Well, I can't leave Pinkie Pie the way she is. I'll go with you back to Sugar Cube Corner. I'll take over for her until she's feeling well enough to get back to work.”

My character turns to Pinkie Pie and shows me, through his eyes, that Pinkie Pie is still too upset to move on her own. So, I have him pick her up and hold her in his arms, and he and Rainbow Dash make their way back to the bakery.

Once the three get there, Lyra's at the back door to meet us. Seeing the pink party pony in my character's arms, she asks, “Is Pinkie Pie alright?”

I answer, “She'll be fine.”

Rainbow Dash adds, “In the mean time, I'm gonna help out until she's feelin' better. So, what do you need me to do?”

As the blue pegasa enters the back door of the bakery and closes it behind her, I hear Mr. Cake say something about oat bread and some kind of cake.

Now that it's just my character and Pinkie Pie in the alleyway, I say to her, “I'm sorry about upsetting you.”

The pink earth pony says, “No, you don't need to apologize. I'm the one who should be sorry, because I disappointed you.”

I answer, “No, Pinkie Pie, you didn't disappoint me. Like your friends, you didn't want to hurt Rarity's feelings; and I can understand that. In your place, I would've done something similar, said something similar. But, Rarity wants you to be happy with the dress she makes for you. So, when you're called back in to talk to her, you can let her know exactly what you want your dress to be.”

By this point, Pinkie Pie has stopped sniffling. When she looks at my character's face, I can see, through his eyes, that she's smiling. Sincerely, she says, “Thank you, Mormon. I'm ready to go back to work now.”

My character puts her down on the ground, then opens the door to allow her to enter, follows her inside, and closes the door behind her.

As I watch the pink earth pony take over baking the bread, I can't help thinking about Fluttershy giving Rarity a detailed description of the problems she has with her dress, then telling her that whatever she wants is alright.

My character helps put a fresh loaf of oat bread in a display when Pinkie calls out, “Mormon, we need to get back to Rarity's boutique now!”

After being dismissed by the Cakes, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and my character make their way back to Carousel Boutique so Pinkie Pie, then Rainbow Dash, can give Rarity a better idea about what they want of their dresses. The three arrive in time to see Fluttershy fly off toward her own home. And, as they enter Rarity's work room, I hear the white unicorn mumble something about French old couture.

Seeing the pink earth pony first, Rarity says, “Well, come on in, Pinkie Pie.” And, it's only after Pinkie Pie enters that Rarity sees the blue pegasa hovering close behind her. At that point, she says, “Rainbow Dash, I was hoping to take care of your dress after Twilight's; but, now that you're here, I can take care of yours now.”

It seems that Pinkie Pie has taken an interest in a bolt of green fabric.

At her request, Rarity unfolds some of the fabric so her pink friend can have a closer look at it.

As soon as the fabric touches the floor, Pinkie Pie disappears under it. Then she sticks her head out from under the cloth, oohs in excitement, and says, “I want my dress in this color.”

Rarity laughs nervously and says, “Oh, but Pinkie Pie, that color's going to disappear in the light. Here, let me show you.” And, with that, the curtains behind Pinkie Pie open up, possessed by Rarity's magic.

As I watch the curtain open and the light shine on the fabric, I understand what Rarity's talking about. Indeed, the green color disappears; and the fabric turns, or at least seems to turn, white. When Rarity, using her magic, closes the curtain again, the green color reveals itself again.

I have to wonder if that just gets Pinkie Pie all the more interested in the cloth, as she says, “I want my dress this color!” and stomps a front hoof for emphasis.

But, it's only when Rarity's cutting the fabric that Pinkie Pie gets a closer look at the dress already made for her, at which point she says, “No, wait a minute. This is just fine.”

I hear a thud from Rarity's position, and turn to see that she's dropped the cloth and scissors. For a moment, I see her trembling; and I have to wonder if she's going to lose her temper. But, then she reigns it in as she turns to her pink friend and, smiling, says, “Very well, then.”

Then, Pinkie Pie says, “It just needs balloons.”

Rarity says, “Alright, then. Balloons it shall have.”

And, as Rarity starts applying helium-filled balloons to the dress, Pinkie Pie says, “Um, I think it needs more balloons.” Then, as Rarity continues to use her magic to follow her pink friend's orders, Pinkie Pie continues, “No, less balloons. It needs more candy. No, it's already got plenty of candy. It needs streamers.”

I don't doubt Pinkie Pie's having fun with this. On the other hand, I have to wonder if Rarity's going to need therapy sessions with a psychiatrist, the way she's looking right now.

Then, Pinkie Pie pulls her party cannon out from nowhere and fires it at her dress.

Instantly, the dress is covered in blue and yellow confetti and streamers, making it look, to me anyway, like a raw, poorly-plucked, blue-and-yellow turkey without a head and neck. I decide to keep this opinion to myself.

Pinkie Pie then examines her work, then screams, “It's perfect!”

At this point, Rarity emits a sound that I think is supposed to be a sigh of relief, although it sounds more like a groan. She then says, “Alright, Pinkie Pie, you're dismissed.” After that, she turns to her blue pegasa friend and says, “Now, Rainbow Dash, it's your turn.”

It's at this point that I realize all this time that Rainbow Dash's been leaning against the desk with the sewing machine. She doesn't even move when Rarity calls to her, just leans there looking bored.

I have my character turn to Pinkie Pie, then I say, “I think I'll stay here for a few more minutes. I'm thinking I'm gonna be more helpful here.”

At my announcement, Pinkie Pie bounces to the window, settles down on the green fabric she'd rejected for her new dress, facing away from the window, and says, “Well, Mormon, if you're staying, I'm staying.”

I can clearly hear the frustration in Rarity's voice as she groans, “Whatever.”

Then, Rarity and Rainbow Dash spend a few seconds staring at each other, after which Rarity asks, “Well, Rainbow, aren't you going to tell me to make a revision?”

The blue pegasa answers, “No, just make it cooler.”

Rarity asks, “Do you not like the color?”

Rainbow Dash answers, “The color's fine. Just make it look cooler.”

Rarity asks, “You don't like the shape?”

Rainbow Dash answers, “The shape's fine. You know, just make the whole thing cooler.” And, Rarity's frustration really starts to blossom when her blue pegasa friend says, “It needs to be about twenty percent cooler.”

At this point, I have my character take a step between the unicorn and the pegasa. I then have him turn to Rarity, and I say, “Maybe I can be helpful here.” Then, I have my character turn to Rainbow Dash as I ask, “Does your dress need air conditioning or something?”

In an angry, kind of sing-songy tone, Rainbow Dash says, pushing away from the desk, “No one's listening to me.” She then flies toward my character and, stopping and hovering far enough away from his face that all I'm seeing of her through my character's eyes is her face, says, slowly, “It needs to be about twenty percent cooler.”

I wait for the blue pegasa to settle down on the ground again, then a thought occurs to me. I have my character focus on her again as I suggest, “Maybe you should try putting your dress on.”

Rainbow Dash groans in frustration, then says, “Alright, if it'll get this done quicker.”

As the blue pegasa positions herself so she's between the door and the window, pointing herself so she's facing the door with her back toward Pinkie Pie, I notice, from the left edge of my character's periphery, the pink pony's tilting her head in curiosity.

In the mean time, Rarity uses her magic to assemble Rainbow Dash's dress around her.

The absence of complaints from the blue pegasa suggests to me that the dress is comfortable for her to wear.

When the dress is fully assembled on her, Rainbow Dash looks behind her, toward the ground, then circles around somewhat, appearing to chase her tail, before saying, “Now, here's the problem. You see how the dress is dragging on the ground? What if I have to fly off all of a sudden? And, what if my dress snags on something, or somepony's standing on it dragging like that? If it doesn't fall apart, I'm not gonna get very far, and I could crash and get hurt. And, that's just not cool.”

I now see, from the edge of my character's periphery, Pinkie Pie straighten her head, then rise to a canine-style sitting position, as I say, “I see. So, in other words, you need the dress more engineered for flight safety.”

For once, I think I see Rainbow Dash smile as she says, “Well, safety for when I take off and land.” She then turns to Rarity and says, pointing at my character with a front limb, “My dress needs to be … like Mormon said … for my safety. You know, about twenty percent cooler.”

My character then focuses on Rarity as she says, “That shouldn't be a problem. Thank you, Mormon, you were indeed a big help.” And, she also smiles sincerely.

I have my character nod to her as I say, “It was my pleasure to be of service.” Then, I have him head toward the door as I add, “Now, if I'm no longer needed here, I'm sure Pinkie Pie and I need to get back to Sugar Cube Corner.”

As my character reaches for the doorknob, and I hear Pinkie Pie bounce up to his side, I also hear Rarity say, “Uh, one moment, Mormon.” As my character turns to her, I notice she's focused on her pony friends as she says, “I forgot to mention this before, but I've decided to hold a fashion show with all my friends when all their dresses are finished. Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Twilight know about it, but I forgot to mention it to you. I was able to get Fluttershy to agree to be part of it. Pinkie Pie, would you also like to take part?”

As she bounces, Pinkie Pie and my character could, if in no other way, literally see eye-to-eye with the altitudes she reaches as she squeals in excitement, “Oh, I'd love to! It sounds like so … much … fun!”

Taking her pink friend's response as affirmation, Rarity broadens her smile. She then turns to me and says, “I've noticed, Mormon, that you've had two pony musicians at your house for more than a week now.”

I say, “I'm guessing you're referring to Vinyl Scratch and Octavia?”

Rarity asks, “Vinyl Scratch? Don't you mean DJ Pon3?”

I answer, “I'm guessing that's her stage name. Around my house, she's been happy to be known as Vinyl Scratch.”

Rarity pauses for a moment, says under her breath, “Yes, of course,” then, so she wants me to hear, says, “I was wondering if one or both of them would be willing to come to Ponyville to perform the music for the fashion show.”

Pinkie Pie and my character exchange looks, then my character turns to Rarity again; and I answer, “The two musicians have been having problems that they've needed my help in solving, and that's required them to stay at my house.” I notice the smile on Rarity's face melts into a frown, and she looks down, before I say, “If you want, you and your friends could come to my house to hold the fashion show. If it's really important that Octavia or DJ Pon3 or both provide the music for the show, and as long as one or both agree, I wouldn't have a problem hosting the event. You'd have to ask them about it. So, would that be alright with you?”

Rarity hums with interest for a moment, then looks up at my character and says, “Well, if that's the only way I'm going to get DJ Pon3 to provide the music for the fashion show, then that is what I shall do.” Then, her smile returns as she concludes, “Sure. We'll hold the fashion show at your house.”

I add, “I'm thinking the best time for the show will be after the reading. You can make the announcement beforehand, and we'll follow the plan after that.” Then, after Rarity nods and grunts in affirmation, I have my character turn the doorknob as I conclude, “Well, if that's everything, Pinkie Pie and I need to be going back to Sugar Cube Corner.”

As Pinkie Pie and my character proceed out the door, I hear Rarity say, “Oh, go on ahead, darling. And, thank you for offering to host the fashion show at your house.”

Before my character closes the door behind him and Pinkie Pie, I answer, “No problem.”

Then, as human and earth pony head down the stairs and to and out the front door, I can't help but laugh as Pinkie Pie says, as fast as a creature can talk, bouncing along next to my character, “This is so sweet! Are you excited? 'Cause I'm excited. I've never been so excited! Oh, except for when Twily first came to town, and I went—“ At this point, she inhales deeply and noisily, and kind of resembles a helium balloon animal as she rises above the ground for a second or two. But, at least she breathes before immediately continuing, “Ah, but there's nothing that could top that. Just wait until Lyra hears about this!”

As soon as I hear Lyra's name, I say, “I think we should wait to tell Lyra about it, at least until after the bakery closes down for the day.”

I hear the pink party pony immediately say, “Oh,” then, after a couple footsteps, add, “Okie dokie.” And, somehow, when she says that, she reminds me of Mario from the video games.

Nothing more is said between the two of us as human and party pony walk back to the bakery. And, once the two get there, they resume their duties.

Maybe a minute or two after they've come back, I hear Lyra ask, “So, Pinkie Pie, is everything alright with Rarity?”

I hear Pinkie Pie answer, “Everything's great. She just needed my advice on the dress she's making for me.” Then, after a few seconds, she adds, “You know, I think Mormon was more helpful when it came to another one of the dresses than I was.”

After a moment, I hear Lyra say, “You know, somehow, I have trouble seeing Mormon in a dress.”

I then hear Pinkie Pie giggle, then say, “He didn't wear it, silly. He just helped Rarity find out what was wrong with it.” And, again she giggles.

For some reason, I begin to wonder at this point if I was hasty in telling Pinkie Pie to wait until after the bakery's business hours to tell Lyra about the fashion show and the dresses Rarity was making for her and the others.

For the rest of the time there, Pinkie Pie and Lyra continue to talk about the wonders of Rarity's dresses while helping with the duties around Sugar Cube Corner, until it's time to close down for the night.

As the group consisting of four ponies, one dinosaur, and one human leave the bakery, and Mr. Cake proceeds to close the door behind them, once again Sweetie Belle is out there to meet them.

The white unicorn foal says, “Mormon, Pinkie Pie, Rarity wants you to come to Carousel Boutique one more time. Something about the dresses she made for her friends.”

I have my character turn to Mr. and Mrs. Cake, who in turn nod in agreement to let him and Pinkie Pie go. I then have him turn to Lyra and Weed Whacker before I say, “If you two will stay with the Cakes and go with them to my home, Pinkie Pie and I will go ahead to the boutique so Pinkie Pie can make a final appraisal of the dresses. It shouldn't take that long.”

The two hesitate for a second, then each agrees to my proposal.

And, with that, Pinkie Pie and my character make their way to the boutique to have a final look at the dresses, and very likely help pack them away so they can be transported to my character's house in preparation for the fashion show after the reading.

When the two get to the boutique, Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash are already there.

Sweetie Belle goes on inside to inform her big sister that her friends are there.

A few seconds later, the doors to the boutique open, evidently possessed by Rarity's magic, and the group of five ponies and one human enter as Rarity announces, “Alright, I did exactly what each of you asked for. Now, don't hold back. Let me know what you really think.”

The rest of the five voice their approval of the dresses Rarity made for them, saying that they're perfect.

On the other hand, Rarity's Persian cat, Opalescence, has a less-than-friendly opinion of the dresses, batting at Twilight's dress without leaving a mark, and expressing disgust at Applejack's wardrobe, which includes what look to me like two pairs of moon boots.

I'm not sure I dare say anything about the costumes. Twilight Sparkle's dress, while no doubt accurate when it comes to the constellations, looks like a tent. Pinkie Pie's confetti-covered dress, well, I've already recorded my opinion of it. Rainbow Dash's dress has been trimmed back so the base no longer drags on the ground, and still looks good; and it also includes a sharp-looking helmet. As familiar as I am with the “Suited for Success” episode on which this day, and the day following, are based, I still have trouble understanding why Fluttershy would choose to wear a bird's nest with wire-suspended paper butterflies on her head. And, Applejack's dress seems to me to be little more than cover-alls with a tablecloth for a skirt.

Rarity sighs when her friends announce in unison, “It's exactly what I asked for!”

Twilight is the first to step forward and offer her gratitude to her friend.

Then, Pinkie Pie bounces forward and asks, “Are you as happy with them as we are, huh, huh, huh?”

Rarity hesitates for a moment before answering, “Well, I'm happy that all of you are happy. I'm just relieved to finally be done.”

Just then, the double doors open behind the group, and all turn around to see Spike, who, after panting a couple times, says, “You are never going to believe this! You've heard of Hoity Toity?”

Twilight Sparkle says, “The big-wig fashion hot-shot from Canterlot?”

Spike grunts in affirmation before continuing, “He heard about your fashion show! Well, maybe I had to mention it to him. He's come all the way from Canterlot to see your work, Rarity!”

Applejack exclaims, “Woah, Nelly!” She then turns to Rarity and says, “You could sell a ton of dresses to this guy. Yer business'll be boomin'.”

The other ponies also exclaim in excitement.

All, that is, except for Rarity, who, on the other hand, seems to be on the verge of collapse as she asks, “Hoity Toity … is coming here … to see these dresses?”

I still have my character focused on Rarity, so I can only hear when Spike says, “Yep. Get ready for all your dreams to come true.”

Seeing the expression on the white unicorn's face, it's clear to me she doesn't share the optimism of the young dragon, or of her other friends for that matter. In fact, based on the facial tic she seems to have developed, I'd say she's picturing her worst nightmare coming to life.

Before I can think anymore about Rarity's evident emotional condition, I hear Pinkie Pie say, “So, Mormon, we haven't heard your opinion yet.”

Now, it's my turn to hesitate as I have my character turn away from Rarity, and I say, with as much optimism as I can muster, “Well, they're a clear reflection of the ponies that ordered them.”

My statement is enough of a compliment for Twilight, who smiles at my character and says, “Ah, that's so sweet, Mormon.”

I then have my character turn back to Rarity as I say, “So, shouldn't we get those dresses in boxes so they can be moved?”

Rarity, evidently still stunned, just mumbles, “Dresses. Box dresses. Move dresses.”

it's Applejack who approaches the white unicorn and asks, “Rarity, are you alright?”

Rarity snaps out of her stunned daze, shakes herself out, then turns to her orange earth pony friend, and says, “I'm fine, Applejack. I just didn't expect Hoity Toity to be coming here.”

Then, Pinkie Pie, bouncing next to my character, asks, “So, what about those boxes, huh? Can I help get 'em?”

Still sounding unsteady, Rarity answers, “No, that's alright. I'll go get them.” And, with that, she disappears through a door between two of the equine mannequins.

Applejack, after strolling up to my character's side, opposite from Pinkie Pie, leans toward him and says, “Ah think there's something really wrong with Rarity.”

At this point, I hear Pinkie Pie stop bouncing and ask, “Whatcha think is wrong, huh AJ?”

Applejack answers, “Ah dunno, but Ah think it's more than just Hoity Toity bein' here.”

Pinkie Pie gasps, then sounds worried when she asks, “What, do you think she might be sick?”

Applejack answers, “If she ain't now, then she's probably gonna be.”

Having based this day on part of the “Suited for Success” episode, I have programmed Hoity Toity to show up at some point on this day to be a spectator at the fashion show. And, I have also volunteered my character's house to be where the fashion show takes place. And, based on what I've observed in the episode, I've programmed the rest of the Mane Six, that is all but Rarity, to be oblivious to their dresses being the reason for Rarity's apprehension. But, it's something that can't be hidden from the gamer, in this case, me. So, I decide to have my character approach the door that Rarity went through to see if I can help her.

But, wouldn't you know it, just as I have my character reach out to the door, it opens, possessed by Rarity's magic; and Rarity, seeing my character at the door, yelps and jumps back in surprise, which causes her to lose control of the boxes she's supporting on her back with her magic.

After I see, through my character's eyes, the stack of boxes topple over, I ask, “Could I help you with those?”

Rarity takes a few breaths to recompose herself, then says, “Uh, sure, Mormon.” She then uses her magic to raise three white cylindrical boxes and three matching lids and float them to my character so he can carry them out of the room.

While my character carries the three boxes, which stacked are just below his chin, Rarity follows him into the front room of the boutique.

As soon as she sees her white unicorn friend, Pinkie Pie trots over to her and asks, “Rarity, are you alright? AJ said you might be sick.”

Somehow Rarity manages to place three boxes, including one of the one's my character is carrying, in front of three of the equine mannequins and open them before she suddenly runs upstairs and into her work room, and from there I can hear her bawling.

My character puts the remaining boxes in front of the remaining mannequins and opens them, then turns to each of the rest of the Mane Six, then Spike; and I can see, through his eyes, they're exchanging worried looks. When my character's attention settles on the purple unicorn again, I say, “Twilight, if you'll put the dresses in the boxes, I'm gonna go upstairs and see if I can help Rarity.” And, with that, my character proceeds to climb the stairs.

I hear Spike's voice getting closer and closer behind my character as he asks, “Mormon, is there something I can do?” I can hear the worry in his voice.

At the top of the stairs, I have my character turn to the purple dragon; and I say, “You can help Twilight with the dresses. I'll go and talk with Rarity.” I then have my character turn to the door to Rarity's work room and take the remaining steps to it.

Before I can have my character reach out to the doorknob, I hear Spike say, “You'd better not hurt her.”

My character turns to the purple dragon; and I can see, through his eyes, Spike pointing and glaring at him.

I answer, “I promise I won't hurt her. Ki tahi au.” And, with that, all except my character stops moving. I don't even hear Rarity's bawling anymore.

I have my character proceed through the door, after which I say, “Continue.”

Before I continue with the story, there's one thing I should mention right now. One of the cheats I've provided for this game is the ability to click on a room or any other inanimate object in the game, and give it commands. In this case, I click on the room itself and say, “Soundproof on.” This will allow Rarity and me to speak our minds without anyone outside the room hearing us.

One thing it doesn't do, though, is prevent Rarity from being startled by the sudden presence of a human in her room.

I hear her scream in alarm; and I see, through my character's eyes, the door seem to vibrate for a split second. As my character turns to the white unicorn, I see her in her bed, holding a pillow.

It seems that she's so surprised by my character's presence in her room that she's forgotten she can hold objects with her magic.

Seeing, through his eyes, a pillow missing from Rarity's bed, I have my character look down on the ground; and he shows me that the pillow is at his feet.

It's also evident now that Rarity threw that pillow at him, and is ready to throw another.

I have my character raise his hands in front of him, ready to catch or deflect the pillow she's evidently ready to throw, and I say, “Rarity, it's alright. I'm not here to hurt you.”

The white unicorn raises the forelimb holding the pillow, evidently getting ready to throw it as hard as she can, and asks, “Then, why the hay are you in my room?”

I answer, “I thought we could talk for a few minutes. It's alright. I've made it so whatever we say in this room won't get beyond these walls.”

At this announcement, Rarity lowers her forelimb and the pillow she's holding in it, looks down at the pillow, then wails, “Oh, what shall I do? How can I show those hideous things to Hoity Toity?”

I watch as Rarity hides her face in the pillow she's still holding, then continues bawling, before I have my character take a step or two toward her; and I say, “Those 'hideous things' are the dresses your friends wanted you to make for them. And, I plan to defend them as such.”

Now, the dresses Rarity made for her friends, based on what they wanted, were, as far as I could tell, at the very worst, strange. But, as she looks up at my character from her pillow, her glaring, tear-stained face is about as frightening as Fluttershy's glare. She, that is Rarity, through her sobs, asks, “How—c-can you defend those—monstrosities? Those are the worst—th-things I've ever—made.”

As alarming as her appearance is, I still have my character take the remaining steps to her bed as I say, “By defending those dresses, I'm defending my friends, including you.” Watching her glare melt into a full facial frown, I continue, “I'm here first and foremost for Pinkie Pie, but that doesn't mean I can't or won't help the rest of her friends as well. Like I said, those dresses are what your friends wanted, and I will defend them as such. That doesn't mean I won't let Hoity Toity say what he chooses to say. It just means I'll warn him about who he's attacking.”

By now, Rarity's stopped bawling; but she continues to sniffle as she says, “But, Hoity Toity—I just know—he's going to hate—those dresses. What if—what he says—ruins my career?”

At this point, I have my character sit on the bed next to Rarity and start stroking her neck as I ask, “Has he really been so perfect in everything he's done?” After a momentary pause, I continue, “In my world, there's this one chef who's become really popular. I won't give you his name, but he's admitted to making his share of mistakes. As critical as he is of other's mistakes, he doesn't discourage others from cooking. It's through learning from his own mistakes that he's become the great, successful chef that he is.

“I'm not perfect. I've made my own share of mistakes in my time. But, I've also learned from them. At least, I hope I have. And, I'll make more mistakes in the future. And, hopefully I'll learn from them as well.”

Rarity pushes my character's hand away with a forelimb as she says, “Well, that's all well and good in your world. But, what does that have to do with me and Hoity Toity?”

I answer, “You remember that chef I mentioned? Well, he frequently gives constructive criticism. Maybe I can get Hoity Toity to give you and your friends some constructive criticism, give them some pointers on what they need to change to make their wardrobes more presentable.”

Rarity asks, “But, what if he has nothing constructive to say? What if he hates all my dresses? What if he says I should give up and never try making anything again?”

I pause for a second or two after her last question before I say, “It's easy to think of worst-case scenarios when it comes to presenting your works to the public. But, unless you really want it to be that way, it doesn't have to be. I've seen you do some really amazing things, and you'll do amazing things in the future. This is just something to learn from. Don't give up just because you've hit a bump in the road. Just learn from it and move on.”

Now, Rarity rises and sets her pillow aside, then says, “Very well, then. Thank you for your pep talk, Mormon. I believe I'm ready to present those … dresses to the public, to Hoity Toity. I just need a moment to make myself presentable. I must look a fright.”

I have my character stand up again and walk to the door as I say, “Alright, then. You get ready, and we'll meet you at the bottom of the stairs. Twilight and the others should have the dresses in the boxes by now, anyway.” I then click on the room again and say, “Soundproof off,” then have my character leave through the door and head down the stairs again.

At the bottom of the stairs, Spike asks, “Is Rarity gonna be alright?”

I answer, “She'll be fine. She was just getting cold feet, uh, cold hooves.”

Then, before anyone can say anything more, the doors, with the chime of the bell above them, open.

Spike, feeling one of the doors gently nudge the end of his tail, turns to see who just entered. Seeing the gray earth stallion standing above him, he calls out, “He's here! He's here!” and runs behind Twilight.

From where my character stands, seeing through his eyes, I'd describe the visitor as having shine-less silver and white hair, although I have to wonder if the white in his hair is supposed to represent shine. I can't tell you right now the color of his eyes, as they're hidden behind sunglasses. His cutie mark is a folded, hand-held fan of sorts. There's something about a male of any species with hair curled the way this stallion has his curled that, to me anyway, makes a male seem effeminate. He wears cuffs on his front hooves, and a strange collar around his neck, which looks to me like the remnants of a suit worn by people centuries ago. To the stallion's credit, the collar, in spite of looking like a piece of a suit, looks like it was removed cleanly.

As he stands in the doorway, looking around, the five mares in the room nod politely; and Twilight says, “Hoity Toity, welcome.”

Hoity Toity takes a step or two further into the boutique and says, “Yes, I'm here to meet the proprieter of this establishment.”

Presently, Spike runs upstairs to the door to Rarity's work room and knocks on it, shouting to her, “Hoity Toity's here to see you!”

I find myself feeling sorry for Spike when the door slams open, catching him by surprise between it and the wall it's joined to.

Rarity, clearly visible from the doorway, asks, “Hoity Toity?” Then, when she sees him, she screams and disappears into her room again.

The door closes slowly, revealing a flattened Spike, arms and legs spread out. Finally free of the door, he drifts to the ground, then pops into 3D again when his feet touch the solid floor. As he stumbles forward, he says, “Always glad to be of service.” Still dazed and unable to focus on where he's going, Spike stumbles off the edge of the walkway on the upper level and falls to the lower one. On the bright side, at least one of the equine mannequins is there to break his fall.

As Twilight comes to the rescue of her assistant, again Rarity appears at her door, slamming it open and, making her way to and down the stairs, says, “Uh, welcome, Hoity Toity. Will you please come in?”

Practically inside already, the gray stallion takes two more steps into the main room of the boutique, followed by a somewhat-light-chocolate-brown stallion, who I guess is a servant, and says, “Yes, I'm here because the little purple dragon said there's going to be a fashion show here.”

Rarity, at the bottom of the stairs by now, stumbles vocally as she says, “Uh, yeah, well, you see, the fashion show isn't going to be here.” Then, evidently intimidated by a disapproving nod from Hoity Toity, she adds, pointing to my character, “Uh, you see, Mormon, here, has volunteered to host the fashion show at his house.”

The gray stallion turns to my character and asks, “And, where is your house?”

I answer, “It's on the other side of the Everfree forest.”

At this point, I see Rarity start to deflate.

Hoity Toity says, “I see. So, I have to travel through a wilderness in order to watch a fashion show?”

I answer, “That pretty much covers it.” If the stallion is trying to sound or make himself intimidating to me, it isn't working.

After a few seconds, Hoity Toity sighs, then removes his sunglasses, produces a handkerchief from his collar, and starts polishing his sunglasses with it.

I can't help noticing that Hoity Toity, while polishing his sunglasses, is keeping his eyes closed. I'm guessing either there's something wrong with his eyes that he doesn't want anyone to know about, or he just thinks himself too important to look at his audience through uncovered eyes.

Whatever the case is, after polishing his sunglasses, for a minute or so, he puts them back on, puts the handkerchief back in its pocket, and says, “Very well. We shall follow you to your place. But, this had better be worth my time.”

Twilight turns to Hoity Toity and Rarity and, smiling, says, “I have all the dresses put away in the boxes you provided for them. They're ready to be moved.”

I add, “And, before the fashion show, there's going to be a scripture reading when all the guests arrive that're going to show up for the event.” I then have my character turn to Hoity Toity as I continue, “I have more than enough copies of the book. I'll provide you a copy in case you would like to read with us.”

Now, I think I hear Hoity Toity groan under his breath before he says, “The things I have to go through for a fashion show.” I then clearly hear him say, “Very well. But, this had better be the best show I've ever seen. My time is too important to be wasted on anything less.”

I find myself having difficulty resisting the urge to give a long-winded speech about how I've had my fill of the concept of “wasting time.” Eventually, I end up saying instead, “Very well, then. As soon as the dresses are packed into whatever vehicle is available for us to use and ready to go, we'll be on our way.”

Now, I see, through my character's eyes, Rarity freeze into a whole-body grimace. As I direct my character's full attention to the white unicorn, I hear her say, “I don't have a vehicle at the moment that could transport the dresses.” While she speaks I can't see her mouth move, and she's frozen like a statue.

Hoity Toity sighs and asks, “How many dresses are there to transport?”

Twilight Sparkle answers, “Five, and they're all in boxes.”

The gray stallion looks at each of the five white, cylindrical boxes (or so I assume; my character's watching Hoity Toity right now, so I can't say for sure), then says, “Very well. You may use the top of my coach to transport the dresses to the human's house.”

Presently, Rarity jumps up and shouts, “Yes!”

Evidently Rarity's outburst has caught Hoity Toity off guard, as he, focused on the excited white unicorn, recoils.

As Rarity lands, she turns and sees that she startled the gray earth stallion. Taking a repentant stance, she says, “Sorry about that.” Then, after forcing a laugh or two, she claps her hooves together a few times and says, “Alright then. Chop-chop. We must be on our way.”

Now, Twilight uses her magic to carry three of the boxes while Rarity uses her magic to carry the other two.

The boxes are placed carefully on top of the coach, where I find it surprising that they all seem to fit without having to be stacked.

The trip through the Everfree forest from Ponyville takes, I'd say, as long as it usually has, with no time gained and now time lost.

When the group arrives, lead by my character, as expected, Lyra, Weed Whacker and the Cakes are there to meet us at the front gate.

My character opens the gate and allows the element bearers, Spike, and Rarity's little sister Sweetie Belle to enter.

Hoity Toity's servant, in the mean time, pulls his coach up to the gate; and I hear the gray earth stallion groan and say, “I can't believe I have to open the door to my own carriage.” As the door to his coach opens, he steps out and says, “I guess I have to let myself out.” Then, once he's out and onto the front lawn, he turns to me and adds, “And, where shall my valet park my coach?”

I answer, “Well, there are two choices. There's a trail that starts between the foremost corner of my fence here and the fence to the orchard. Then, alternatively, your coach can be parked on the opposite side of the road from my house.”

I'm pleasantly surprised when Hoity Toity shouts to his servant, “Park the coach along the trail, next to the human's house!”

As Hoity Toity's servant proceeds to do so, I say, “If you'll make yourself comfortable on the front lawn, Rarity and I have something to discuss with a few friends in the house.”

As Rarity follows my character towards the house, I hear Hoity Toity ask, “I have to stay out here?”

As my character reaches the door to allow Rarity in, and before he follows her into the house and closes the door behind her, I hear Twilight Sparkle say, “Believe me, when everypony has arrived for the reading, there won't be enough room in the house for them.” And, my character closes the door behind him before he can hear any more of the conversation, assuming there is any more.

Presently, I hear Rarity say, “Oh, DJ Pon3, it's nice to meet you.” My character turns to show me Vinyl Scratch leaning against the couch somewhat facing the door.

The white, blue-haired unicorn answers, “Rarity, nice to meet you. Is there something you need?”

Rarity seems unable to speak, so, after a few seconds, I answer, “If you'll get Octavia and meet us in the kitchen, Rarity does have a request to make.”

Vinyl Scratch pushes herself away from the couch with her shoulder, then trots off to the room where she and Octavia have been staying, as she says, “Sure, Mormon. It'll just take a second.”

I lead the way to the kitchen and open the door to allow Rarity to enter, while I hear Vinyl Scratch call out, “Octy, Rarity's here, and she wants to talk to us!”

Then, as Rarity enters the kitchen, followed by my character, I have him point to the table and chairs and ask, “Do you want to make the proposal, or should I?”

Rarity jumps onto the chair closest to the fridge and props herself up on the table, then, as my character occupies the chair opposite her, she stammers, “S-sure, I-I'll make the p-proposal.”

I find myself remembering the conversation back in Rarity's workroom when I ask, “You're still worried about the fashion show?”

Rarity answers, “I can't stop worrying about it. Yes, those dresses are what my customers wanted, but they're not up to my standards. I worry that Hoity Toity will think they're my usual, or my best.”

Before I can address Rarity's concern, the door opens; and Vinyl Scratch and Octavia trot in. As Vinyl takes the empty seat closest to the door, Octavia closes the door behind her, then trots to the remaining chair and occupies it.

As soon as she sees Octavia comfortable in the chair furthest from the door, Vinyl Scratch turns her attention to the white, purple-haired unicorn and asks, “So, Rarity, what do you need our help with?”

Octavia and my character turn their attentions to Rarity, who opens her mouth to respond. But, instead of words, what comes out of her mouth is a loud belch.

As I watch, through my character's eyes, Rarity cover her mouth with a front hoof, and a worried look develop on her face, it becomes clear to me what's going to happen next. I have my character run to the closest bathroom, the one across from my character's bedroom, and open the door, as Rarity jumps off her chair and, still holding her mouth closed with the one front hoof, gallops into the bathroom and to the toilet, where she buries her face in the bowl and starts retching.

I have my character close the door to provide some privacy for Rarity, then return to a worried-looking Vinyl Scratch and Octavia; and I say, “I'm sorry about that. Rarity and her friends are putting on a fashion show to show off the dresses she made for them, and she wanted one or both of you to provide the music. I've agreed to hold the fashion show here at my house for your convenience. Also, Hoity Toity's here, and Rarity's worried that he's not going to like the dresses she made for her friends. So, will either or both of you provide the music for the fashion show?”

The two musical ponies look at each other, and Vinyl says, “This could be the chance for us to perform that song Mormon assigned us.”

Octavia nods, evidently in agreement, and says, “We haven't worked out all the problems we've been having, but it would be nice to perform for an audience again.”

Vinyl eagerly nods and grunts in agreement, then asks, “So, what do you say? You wanna perform that 'Light up the Land' song for Rarity's fashion show?”

Octavia smiles at Vinyl, then says, “Well, if you think we're ready for it, then sure. Let's do it.”

Vinyl Scratch raises her forelimbs in victory and shouts, looking up, “Yes!” Then, lowering her forelimbs and looking at Octavia again, she warbles, “This is gonna be sweet.” Finally, she turns to my character and says, “Sure, we'll play for Rarity's fashion show.”

I answer, “Excellent. The fashion show will take place after the reading, so you'll need to get your scriptures. And, be careful. There are likely to be boxes in the front room.” I have my character back away from the unicorn and earth pony as they run out the kitchen door to wherever they plan to go next, then I have him head to the bathroom; and I call out, “Rarity, are you alright in there?”

I hear her weakly answer, “I just need a few more minutes.”

I continue, “I'm gonna see if the rest of the guests have arrived.” And, with that, I have my character make his way to the front door of the house and look outside to see how many there are on the front lawn.

When I get a look outside, I recognize, among the familiar faces from previous readings, the Cakes, the element bearers, save for Rarity who I know is in the bathroom, Lyra and Bon-Bon, Carrot Top and Berry Punch, Snips and Snails and their parents, Granny Smith, Big MacIntosh and Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Cheerilee, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, Twist, Stunts, Emerald Hill and Berry Ground, Mayor Mare, and even the two princesses, Luna and Celestia, and Zecora are present. I'm guessing that means the trouble in Filly-delphia is finally over with. And, Spike and Weed Whacker are out there on the lawn. And, all have begun to form the familiar reading circle around the snack tray.

As for the newcomers to the circle, I notice, besides Hoity Toity and his servant, a blue unicorn with darker-blue-and-white mane and tail in the group. Whether it's her official name according to the series, or just one associated with her because her hair is colored like a familiar brand of toothpaste, I'm not entirely sure. But, in this game, this unicorn is known as Colgate. I have to wonder if she came strictly for the fashion show. But, considering her name, I've given her the cutie mark of a toothbrush with fresh toothpaste on the bristles.

There are also two more unicorns, both talking to Hoity Toity, both I recognize as Rarity's parents. The stallion is white colored, although I notice, as Sweetie Belle walks past him, that her shade of white is brighter than his. His mane and tail are a chocolate brown color, as are his mustache and eyebrows. And, he has three footballs as a cutie mark.

The mare is pink colored, with mane and tail that are two shades of purple, I'd say. Her mane is done up in a bun, and she's wearing earrings and a scarf.

Considering how the presence of parents of humans is depicted in movies and TV shows, I have to wonder how the presence of Rarity's parents is going to influence her during the fashion show after the reading. As much as I expect and appreciate that they're here to support their daughter Rarity, I expect they'll most likely add to her stage fright.

In the mean time, Spike approaches my character and asks, “So, when's Rarity comin' out?”

My character focuses on the young purple dragon, and I answer, “She'll come out when she's ready.” I don't know if I dare say any more about her.

Then, from behind my character, I hear Vinyl Scratch say, “Rarity's out of the bathroom now.” As my character turns to the blue-maned unicorn, she continues, “I told her that you invited me and Octavia to perform the music at her fashion show, and that we agreed to it.”

I can see, from my character's perspective, Rarity walking up behind Vinyl Scratch, which the blue-haired unicorn mare doesn't notice until she says, “Yes, and I appreciate that, Mormon. Thank you.”

I watch Vinyl start, then I say to Rarity, “You're welcome. Now, if you two and Octavia will go outside, and join the circle, I have five more copies of the Book of Mormon to get.”

As my character heads to the closet to get the copies, I hear an alarmed whinny from the doorway, and Rarity say, “Why didn't you tell me my parents are here?”

While my character is getting the copies, I answer, “I didn't know they were out there until just now. And, I didn't have time to tell you about it. And, besides, you didn't ask.”

As my character counts five copies of the book, I hear an equine snort or sneeze from behind him, followed by Rarity's voice growling, “One does not ask if one's parents are going to be present at an event one has prepared.” Not waiting for a response from me, she worriedly asks, “What am I going to do? How can I go out there with my parents waiting for me?”

While my character picks up the stack of books, I answer, “You're not committing a crime. You'll be putting on a fashion show after the reading. And, you can't back out of it now. It's too late for that.”

At this point, Rarity starts pacing back and forth like a caged predator of sorts while she says, “Oh, I've never been so nervous in my life. How can I show these … things to Hoity Toity? How can I show them to my parents? How will I ever be able to show my face in Ponyville, or anywhere else, again? Oh, this really is the worst possible thing.” The way she's talking, she sounds like she's withdrawing into herself or something like that.

By this point, my character's at the front door again. While he maneuvers the books into a position so he can open the door, I say to Rarity, “Let's just take this one step at a time, starting with the reading.”

Rarity stops pacing and looks up at me, then says, “Oh, very well, Mormon. I suppose I can at least read with everypony here.”

My character opens the door while I say, “Good. Now, let's get going.” And, with that, and with Rarity following my character, he leads the way to the nearly-complete circle of ponies and dragons.

Once all are settled into their places, I announce, “We'll be having a special treat this evening. After the reading, Rarity is going to put on a fashion show. But, in the mean time, we'll be starting the Second Book of Nephi.” I then have my character turn to my unicorn stallion friend as I ask, “Stunts, will you give us a brief description of what's happened up to this point, for the benefit of the newcomers to the reading?”

Stunts nods, then says, “Thus far, a human named Lehi, along with his wife Sariah and their sons Laman Lemuel, Sam and Nephi, left their home in a city called Jerusalem some six hundred years before the coming of the Christ. Before they could get very far, Lehi's God told him to send his sons back to Jerusalem to get some important records, which they managed to do. Then, when they got back with the records, Lehi's God once again told him to send his sons back to Jerusalem, this time to get another family to go with them, one who's father's name was Ishmael. Soon after they returned from that, Lehi's sons married Ishmael's daughters, and they went back to traveling in the wilderness, on their way to the ocean. They didn't have an easy time of it, but they made their way to the shore of the ocean, where Nephi and his brothers built a ship, which they used to sail across the ocean to a land promised to them. Before they sailed on the ship, before it was built, Lehi and Sariah had two more sons, Jacob and Joseph. Anyway, after arriving in the new land, it seems that Nephi has done some teaching of scriptures to his brothers, wife, and children.”

After thanking Stunts for the description, I have my character look around the circle; and I ask, “Do I have a volunteer to start the reading?”

After a few seconds, Hoity Toity raises a hoof and says, “If it means we get to the fashion show that much sooner, then I volunteer to begin the reading.”

I notice, through my character's eyes, that the gray earth stallion is evidently on the right page. So, I say, “You may go ahead. Please start with verse one.”

Hoity Toity says, “Yes,” then clears his throat, then reads, “And now it came to pas that after I, Nephi, had made an end of teaching my brethren, our father, Lehi, also spake many things unto them, and rehearsed unto them, how great things the Lord had done for them in bringing them out of the land of Jerusalem.” Afterwards, he nudges his servant and says, “You read verse two.”

The tan stallion nods, then reads, “And he spake unto them concerning their rebellion upon the waters, and the mercies of God in sparing their lives, that they were not swallowed up in the sea.”

Next, Mr. Cake reads, “And he also spake unto them concerning the land of promise, which they had obtained—how merciful the Lord had been in warning us that we should flee out of the land of Jerusalem.”

Mrs. Cake reads, “For, behold, said he, I have seen a vision, in which I know that Jerusalem is destroyed, and had we remained in Jerusalem we should also have perished.” She then looks up and says, “Lehi's God keeps him well informed on what's happened to his home town.”

At this piont, Hoity Toity groans and asks, “Can't we just keep this to reading? Do we have to have comments as well?”

I have to admit, I'm starting to lose patience with the gray stallion. Still, I try to maintain a calmness to my voice as I answer, “Yes, Hoity Toity, in this circle, it's more than just reading. If one of us has something appropriate to say about what's been read up to this point, that individual is quite welcome to say what's on his or her mind.” Then, before Hoity Toity can ask any further questions, I have my character turn to the nearly-white-pink unicorn mare next to Mrs. Cake; and I ask, “Warm Heart, will you read verse five?”

Warm Heart nods in agreement, then reads, “But, said he, notwithstanding our afflictions, we have obtained a land of promise, a land which is choice above all other lands, a land which the Lord God hath covenanted with me should be a land for the inheritance of my seed. Yea, the Lord hath covenanted this land unto me, and to my children forever, and also all those who should be led out of other countries by the hand of God.”

Next, Snips reads, “Wherefore, I, Lehi, prophesy according to the workings of the Spirit which is in me, that there shall none come into this land save they shall be brought by the hand of the Lord.”

Snails reads, “Wherefore, this land is consecrated unto him whom he shall bring. And if it so be that they shall serve him according to the commandments which he hath given, it shall be a land of liberty unto them; wherefore, they shall never be brought down into captivity; if so, it shall be because of iniquity; for if iniquity shall abound cursed shall be the land for their sakes, but unto the righteous it shall be blessed forever.” He then looks up and says, “It sounds like a good land to live in.”

I answer, “I can tell you right now, at least where I live in North America, while there are challenges to living there, it is a good place to live in.”

Cold Hands then reads, “And behold, it is wisdom that this land should be kept as yet from the knowledge of other nations; for behold, many nations would overrun the land, that there would be no place for an inheritance.”

After a grunt of interest from him, Big MacIntosh reads, “Wherefore, I, Lehi, have obtained a promise, that inasmuch as those whom the Lord God shall bring out of the land of Jerusalem shall keep his commandments, they shall prosper upon the face of this land, and they shall be kept from all other nations, that they may possess this land unto themselves. And if it so be that they shall keep his commandments they shall be blessed upon the face of this land, and there shall be none to molest them, not to take away the land of their inheritance; and they shall dwell safely forever.” He then matches Cold Hands' grunt of interest and adds, “This 'land of their inheritance' is soundin' better 'n' better.”

Granny Smith then reads, “But behold, when the time cometh that they shall dwindle in unbelief, after they have received so great blessings from the hand of the Lord—having a knowledge of the creation of the earth, and all men, knowing the great and marvelous works of the Lord from the creation of the world; having power given them to do all things by faith; having all the commandments from the beginning, and having been brought by his infinite goodness into this precious land of promise—behold, I say, if the day shall come that they will reject the Holy One of Israel, the true Messiah, their Redeemer and their God, behold the judgments of him that is just shall rest upon them.”

Applebloom reads, “Yea, he will bring other nations unto them, and he will give unto them power, and he will take away from them the lands of their possessions, and he will cause them to be scattered and smitten.”

Applejack reads, “Yea, as one generation passeth to another there shall be bloodsheds, and great visitations among them; wherefore, my sons, I would that ye would remember; yea, I would that ye would hearken unto my words.”

Rarity reads, “O that ye would awake; awake from a deep sleep, yea, even from the sleep of hell, and shake off the awful chains by which ye are bound, which are the chains which bind the children of men, that they are carried away captive down to the eternal gulf of misery and woe.”

Spike reads, “Awake! and arise from the dust, and hear the words of a trembling parent, whose limbs ye must soon lay down in the cold and silent grave, from whence no traveler can return; a few more days and I go the way of all the earth.”

Twilight Sparkle reads, “But behold, the Lord hath redeemed my soul from hell; I have beheld his glory, and I am encircled about eternally in the arms of his love.”

Rainbow Dash reads, “And I desire that ye should remember to observe the statutes and the judgments of the Lord; behold, this hath been the anxiety of my soul from the beginning.”

Pinkie Pie reads, “My heart hath been weighed down with sorrow from time to time, for I have feared, lest for the hardness of your hearts the Lord your God should come out in the fulness of his wrath upon you, that ye be cut off and destroyed forever.”

Fluttershy reads, “Or, that a cursing should come upon you for the space of many generations; and ye are visited by sword, and by famine, and are hated, and are led according to the will and captivity of the devil.”

Bon-Bon reads, “O my sons, that these things might not come upon you, but that ye might be a choice and a favored people of the Lord. But, behold, his will be done; for his ways are righteousness forever.”

Lyra reads, “And he hath said that: Inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments ye shall prosper in the land; but inasmuch as he will not keep my commandments ye shall be cut off from my presence.”

I read, “And now that my soul might have joy in you, and that my heart might leave his world with gladness because of you, that I might not be brought down with grief and sorrow to the grave, arise from the dust, my sons, and be men, and be determined in one mind and in one heart, united in all things, that ye may not come down into captivity.”

Weed Whacker reads, “That ye may not be cursed with a sore cursing; and also, that ye may not incur the displeasure of a just God upon you, unto the destruction, yea, the eternal destruction of both soul and body.”

Scootaloo reads, “Awake, my sons; put on the armor of righteousness. Shake off the chains with which ye are bound, and come forth out of obscurity, and arise from the dust.”

Twist reads, “Rebel no more against your brother, whose views have been glorious, and who hath kept the commandments from the time that we left Jerusalem; and who hath been an instrument in the hands of God, in bringing us forth into the land of promise; for were it not for him, we must have perished with hunger in the wilderness; nevertheless, ye sought to take away his life; yea, and he hath suffered much sorrow because of you.”

At this point, I'm caught off-guard when Hoity Toity asks, “Uh, excuse me, but what happened to his family in the wilderness that threatened them with starvation?”

I open my mouth to say something, but it's Berry Ground that says, “I'll answer this one.” He then turns to the gray stallion and says, “After Lehi's family was joined by Ishmael's family, while Lehi's sons were hunting for food, Nephi broke his bow. It's recorded that the bows of Laman, Lemuel and Sam had 'lost their spring,' and Mormon interprets that to mean that they'd worn out; anyway, the loss of Nephi's bow was a major blow to them. In fact, the only one, it seems, that didn't complain was Nephi. Even Lehi complained against his God because of the threat of starvation, or at least extreme hunger. But then, Nephi made a new bow and arrow from wood and other materials that were available, then went to his father and asked him where he should go to get food. That was quite the humbling experience for Lehi, who prayed about it and got instructions from his God on where to go. After that, Nephi went and hunted for and got food for them, based on the instructions God had given him through his father, and that allowed them to survive.

“It's also noteworthy that, before the combined families of Lehi and Ishmael left to travel further, their God supplied them with a compass that worked based on whether they remembered their God or not. It's this compass that their God used to inform Lehi of where he should send Nephi to get the food.”

After hearing the explanation, Hoity Toity asks, “And, what, humans eat meat?”

I now answer, “Not strictly, but yes.” Then, as I watch the gray stallion suddenly struggle to rise and back out of the circle, I add, “But, let me assure you that I'm not here to eat you, or any of the other ponies in this circle, in Ponyville, in Canterlot, or anywhere else in Equestria for that matter. I'm here to make friends with ponies and other creatures, not to eat them.”

At this point, Hoity Toity, seeing he's the only one who seems to have panicked, returns to his position and once again reclines into a sphinx-style position.

Now, Cheerilee reads, “And I exceedingly fear and tremble because of you, lest he shall suffer again; for behold, ye have accused him that he sought power and authority over you; but I know that he hath not sought for power and authority over you, but he hath sought the glory of God, and your own eternal welfare.” At this point, she nickers and says, “Hoity Toity was certainly fearing and trembling.”

At this, the only ones that don't laugh are Hoity Toity and me. Instead, I say, “Alright, that's enough. Let's just get back to the reading.” Then, as the laughter dies down, I have my character turn to Diamond Tiara; and I ask, “Will you read verse twenty-six?”

The pink earth filly nods, then looks down and reads, “And ye have murmured because he hath been plain unto you. Ye say that he hath used sharpness; ye say that he hath been angry with you; but behold, his sharpness was the sharpness of the power of the word of God, which was in him; and that which ye call anger was the truth, according to that which is in God, which he could not restrain, manifesting boldly concerning your iniquities.”

Next, Silver Spoon reads, “And it must needs be that the power of God must be with him, even unto his commanding you that ye must obey. But, behold, it was not he, but it was the Spirit of the Lord which was in him, which opened his mouth to utterance that he could not shut it.”

Colgate reads, “And now my son, Laman, and also Lemuel and Sam, and also my sons who are the sons of Ishmael, behold, if ye will hearken unto the voice of Nephi ye shall not perish. And if ye will hearken unto him I leave you a blessing, yea even my first blessing.”

Berry Punch reads, “But if ye will not hearken unto him I take away my first blessing, yea, even my blessing, and it shall rest upon him.”

Carrot Top reads, “And now, Zoram, I speak unto you: Behold, thou art the servant of Laban; nevertheless, thou hast been brought out of the land of Jerusalem, and I know that thou art a true friend unto my son, Nephi, forever.”

Vinyl Scratch reads, “Wherefore, because thou hast been faithful thy seed shall be blessed with his seed, that they dwell in prosperity long upon the face of this land; and nothing, save it shall be iniquity among them, shall harm or disturb their prosperity upon the face of this land forever.”

Octavia reads, “Wherefore, if ye shall keep the commandments of the Lord, the Lord hath consecrated this land for the security of thy seed with the seed of my son.”

At this point, I say, “I'm thinking we should go on to the next chapter, seeing that not everyone has had a chance to read.”

At my proposal the voices I hear around the circle seem to be in agreement. I think it's Princess Celestia who mentions that thus far on average the readings have each involved two chapters from First Nephi. Of course, that's when the circle had as many as three dozen individuals.

But, considering all are evidently in agreement, Zecora starts reading with the first verse of chapter two: “And now, Jacob, I speak unto you. Thou art my firstborn in the days of my tribulation in the wilderness. And behold, in thy childhood thou hast suffered afflictions and much sorrow, because of the rudeness of thy brethren.”

Next, Princess Luna reads, “Nevertheless, Jacob, my firstborn in the wilderness, thou knowest the greatness of God, and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain.”

Mayor Mare reads, “Wherefore, thy soul shall be blessed, and thou shalt dwell safely with thy brother, Nephi, and thy days shall be spent in the service of thy God. Wherefore, I know that thou art redeemed, because of the righteousness of thy Redeemer; for thou hast beheld that in the fulness of time he cometh to bring salvation unto men.”

Princess Celestia reads, “And thou hast beheld in thy youth his glory; wherefore, thou art blessed even as they whom he shall minister in the flesh; for the Spirit is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. And the way is prepared from the fall of man, and salvation is free.”

Emerald Hill reads, “And men are instructed sufficiently that they know good from evil. And the law is given unto men. And by the law no flesh is justified; or, by the law men are cut off. Yea, by the temporal law they were cut off; and also, by the spiritual law they perish from that which is good, and become miserable forever.”

Stunts reads, “Wherefore, redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah; for he is full of grace and truth.”

Berry Ground reads, “Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered.”

Rarity's father reads, “Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise.”

Sweetie Belle reads, “Wherefore, he is the firstfruits unto God, inasmuch as he shall make intercession for all the children of men; and they that believe in him shall be saved.”

Rarity's mother reads, “And because of the intercession for all, all men come unto God; wherefore, they stand in the presence of him, to be judged of him according to the truth and holiness which is in him. Wherefore, the ends of the law which the Holy One hath given, unto the inflicting of the punishment which is affixed, which punishment that is affixed is in opposition to that of the happiness which is affixed, to answer the ends of the atonement—“

Hoity Toity reads, “For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my firstborn in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad. Wherefore, all things must be a compound in one; wherefore, if it should be one body it must needs remain as dead; having no life neither death, nor corruption nor incorruption, happiness nor misery, neither sense nor insensibility.”

When Hoity Toity is finished reading, I find I cant help mentioning two points of interest in this verse: “I've just noticed something of interest here. In this verse, Lehi seems to have holiness and happiness as synonyms, and opposite of misery. I hadn't thought about them that way before, but it makes sense.” Now, noticing that I have the attention of the others in the circle, I have my character turn to Hoity Toity's servant, and I say, “Uh, go ahead and read verse twelve.”

The tan earth stallion nods and reads, “Wherefore, it must needs have been created for a thing of naught; wherefore there would have been no purpose in the end of its creation. Wherefore, this thing must needs destroy the wisdom of God and his eternal purposes, and also the power, and the mercy, and the justice of God.”

Mr. Cake reads, “And if ye shall say there is no law, ye shall also say there is no sin. If ye shall say there is no sin, he shall also say there is no righteousness. And if there be no righteousness there be no happiness. And if there be no righteousness nor happiness there be no punishment nor misery. And if these things are not there is no God. And if there is no God we are not, neither the earth; for there could have been no creation of things, neither to act nor to be acted upon; wherefore, all things must have vanished away.”

Mr. Cake reads, “And now, my sons, I speak unto you these things for your profit and learning; for there is a God, and he hath created all things, both the heavens and the earth, and all things that in them are, both things to act and things to be acted upon.”

Warm Heart reads, “And to bring about his eternal purposes in the end of man, after he had created our first parents, and the beasts of the field and the fowls of the air, and in fine, all things which are created, it must needs be that there was an opposition; even the forbidden fruit in opposition to the tree of life; the one being sweet and the other bitter.”

Snips reads, “Wherefore, the Lord God gave unto man that he should act for himself. Wherefore, man could not act for himself save it should be that he was enticed by the one or the other.”

Snails reads, “And I, Lehi, according to the things which I have read, must needs suppose that an angel of God, according to that which is written, had fallen from heaven; wherefore, he became a devil, having sought that which was evil before God.” He then looks up and says, “You know, this sounds like that lesson you gave a few days ago, Mormon. That one about the plan of salvation.”

I answer, “That's right. And, Lehi's giving at least a part of that lesson in his own words to his son Jacob. In fact, he probably does a better job than I did of explaining it.”

Cold Hands reads, “And because he had fallen from heaven, and had become miserable forever, he sought also the misery of all mankind. Wherefore, he said unto Eve, yea, even that old serpent, who is the devil, who is the father of all lies, wherefore he said: Partake of the forbidden fruit, and ye shall not die, but ye shall be as God, knowing good and evil.”

Big Macintosh reads, “And after Adam and Eve had partaken of the forbidden fruit they were driven out of the garden of Eden, to till the earth.”

Granny Smith reads, “And they have brought forth children; yea, even the family of all the earth.”

Applebloom reads, “And the days of the children of men were prolonged, according to the will of God, that they might repent while in the flesh; wherefore, their state became a state of probation, and their time was lengthened, according to the commandments which the Lord God gave unto the children of men. For he gave commandments that all men must repent; for he showed unto all men that they were lost, because of the transgression of their parents.”

Applejack reads, “And now, behold, if Adam had not transgressed he would not have fallen, but he would have remained in the garden of Eden. And all things which were created must have remained in the same state in which they were after they were created; and they must have remained forever, and had no end.”

Rarity reads, “And they would have had no children; wherefore they would have remained in a state of innocence, having no joy, for they knew no misery; doing no good, for they knew no sin.”

Spike reads, “But behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things.”

Twilight Sparkle reads, “Adam fell that men night be; and men are, that they might have joy.”

Rainbow Dash reads, “And the Messiah cometh in the fulness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall. And because that they are redeemed from the fall they have become free forever, knowing good from evil, to act for themselves and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the law at the great and last day, according to the commandments which God hath given.”

Pinkie Pie reads, “Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself.” Looking up, Pinkie Pie says, “You know, I'm beginning to wonder if it was somehow planned that I should read this verse.”

Twilight answers, “Well, whatever, or whoever, planned for you to read the verses you read also planned for me to read the verses I read.”

Fluttershy reads, “And now, my sons, I would that ye should look to the great Mediator, and hearken unto his great commandments; and be faithful unto his words, and choose eternal life, according to the will of his Holy Spirit.”

Bon-Bon reads, “And not choose eternal death, according to the will of the flesh and the evil which is therein, which giveth the spirit of the devil power to captivate, to bring you down to hell, that he may reign over you in his own kingdom.”

Lyra looks at Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle and says, “Well, whatever or whoever planned for you to read the verses you read seems to have planned for me to read the last verse of this chapter.” She then looks down and reads, “I have spoken these few words unto you all, my sons, in the last days of my probation; and I have chosen the good part, according to the words of the prophet. And I have none other object save it be the everlasting welfare of your souls. Amen.”

As soon as Lyra's finished reading, I hear Rarity ask, “Uh, Mormon, could we please read one more chapter?”

At this point, I can't say for sure if Rarity's asking in order to delay the fashion show, or because she enjoys the reading so much. Maybe both are true. Still, as I have my character look around the circle, I ask, “Well, shall we read another chapter, or get to the fashion show?”

At this point, voices around the circle seem to be in favor of reading another chapter.

Hoity Toity speaks up and says, “I came here for a fashion show, and I will not leave until I see a fashion show.”

I have my character focus as best he can between the white, purple-haired unicorn and the gray earth stallion, so that I can see both of them through his eyes. Then, after my character looks at each of them a few times, I finally say, “Alright, we'll read one more chapter. But, after that, the fashion show must proceed. Is that alright?”

Hoity Toity answers first: “It has been a pleasure reading from this book, but I did come here to see a fashion show. However, if I must stay for the reading of one more chapter, then it had better be just one more chapter; and then there has to be a fashion show.”

Rarity manipulates a page with her magic to see how long the chapter will be, then grimaces. Then, she looks at my character, sighs, and says, “Oh, very well then.”

That argument having been settled, I have my character look down into his book; and I read, “And now I speak unto you, Joseph, my last-born. Thou wast born in the wilderness of mine afflictions; yea, in the days of my greatest sorrow did thy mother bear thee.”

Weed Whacker then reads, “And may the Lord consecrate also unto thee this land, which is a most precious land, for thine inheritance and the inheritance of thy seed with thy children, for thy security forever, if it so be that ye shall keep the commandments of the Holy One of Israel.”

Scootaloo reads, “And now, Joseph, my last-born, whom I have brought out of the wilderness of mine afflictions, may the Lord bless thee forever, for thy seed shall not utterly be destroyed.”

Twist reads, “For behold, thou art the fruit of my loins; and I am a descendant of Joseph who was carried captive into Egypt. And great are the covenants of the Lord which he made unto Joseph.”

Cheerilee reads, “Wherefore, Joseph truly saw our day. And he obtained a promise of the Lord, that out of the fruit of his loins the Lord God would raise up a righteous branch unto the house of Israel; not the Messiah, but a branch which was to be broken off, nevertheless, to be remembered in the covenants of the Lord that the Messiah should be made manifest unto them in the latter days, in the spirit of power, unto the bringing of them out of darkness unto light—yea, out of hidden darkness and out of captivity unto freedom.”

Diamond Tiara reads, “For Joseph truly testified, saying: A seer shall the Lord my God raise up, who shall be a choice seer unto the fruit of my loins.”

Silver Spoon reads, “Yea, Joseph truly said: Thus saith the Lord unto me: A choice seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins, and he shall be esteemed highly among the fruit of thy loins. And unto him will I give commandment that he shall do a work for the fruit of thy loins, his brethren, which shall be of great worth unto them, even to the bringing of them to the knowledge of the covenants which I have made with thy fathers.”

Colgate reads, “And I will give unto him a commandment that he shall do none other work, save the work which I shall command him. And I will make him great in mine eyes; for he shall do my work.”

Berry Punch reads, “And he shall be great like unto Moses, whom I have said I would raise up unto you, to deliver my people, O house of Israel.”

Carrot Top reads, “And Moses will I raise up, to deliver thy people out of the land of Egypt.”

Vinyl Scratch reads, “But a seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and unto him will I give power to bring forth my word unto the seed of thy loins—and not to the bringing forth my word only, saith the Lord, but to the convincing them of my word, which shall have already gone forth among them.”

Octavia reads, “Wherefore, the fruit of thy loins shall write; and the fruit of the loins of Judah shall write; and that which shall be written by the fruit of thy loins, and also that which shall be written by the fruit of the loins of Judah, shall grow together, unto the confounding of false doctrines and laying down of contentions, and establishing peace among the fruit of thy loins, and bringing them to the knowledge of their fathers in the latter days, and also to the knowledge of my covenants, saith the Lord.”

Zecora reads, “And out of weakness he shall be made strong, in that day when my work shall commence among all my people, unto the restoring thee, O house of Israel, saith the Lord.”

Princess Luna reads, “And thus prophesied Joseph, saying: Behold, that seer will the Lord bless; and they that seek to destroy him shall be confounded; for this promise, which I have obtained of the Lord, of the fruit of my loins, shall be fulfilled. Behold, I am sure of the fulfilling of this promise.”

Mayor Mare reads, “And his name shall be called after me; and it shall be after the name of his father. And he shall be like unto me; for the thing, which the Lord shall bring forth by his hand, by the power of the Lord shall bring my people unto salvation.”

At this point, I speak up and say, “The prophet that's been talked about in these verses of chapter three is Joseph Smith Junior, the first prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. And in his ministry, he did all these things that are written here.” I then turn to the daytime princess and say, “You may go ahead and read verse sixteen now.”

Princess Celestia nods and reads, “Yea, thus prophesied Joseph: I am sure of this thing, even as I am sure of the promise of Moses; for the Lord hath said unto me, I will preserve thy seed forever.”

Emerald Hill then reads, “And the Lord hath said: I will raise up a Moses; and I will give power unto him in a rod; and I will give judgment unto him in writing. Yet I will not loose his tongue, that he shall speak much, for I will not make him mighty in speaking. But I will write unto him my law, by the finger of mine own hand; and I will make a spokesman for him.”

Stunts reads, “And the lord said unto me also: I will raise up unto the fruit of thy loins; and I will make for him a spokesman. And I, behold, I will give unto him that he shall write the writing of the fruit of thy loins, unto the fruit of thy loins; and the spokesman of thy loins shall declare it.”

Berry Ground reads, “And the words which he shall write shall be the words which are expedient in my wisdom should go forth unto the fruit of thy loins. And it shall be as if the fruit of thy loins had cried unto them from the dust; for I know their faith.”

Rarity's father reads, “And they shall cry from the dust; yea, even repentance unto their brethren, even after many generations have gone by them. And it shall come to pass that their cry shall go, even according to the simpleness of their words.”

Sweetie Belle reads, “Because of their faith their words shall proceed forth out of thy mouth unto their brethren who are the fruit of thy loins; and the weakness of their words will I make strong in their faith, unto the remembering of my covenant which I made unto thy fathers.”

Rarity's mother reads, “And now, behold, my son Joseph, after this manner did my father of old prophesy.”

Hoity Toity reads, “Wherefore, because of this covenant thou art blessed; for thy seed shall not be destroyed, for they shall hearken unto the words of the book.”

Hoity Toity's servant reads, “And there shall rise up one mighty among them, who shall do much good, both in word and in deed, being an instrument in the hands of God, with exceeding faith, to work mighty wonders, and do that thing which is great in the sight of God, unto the bringing to pass much restoration unto the house of Israel, and unto the seed of thy brethren.”

Mr. Cake reads, “And now, blessed art thou, Joseph. Behold, thou art little; wherefore hearken unto the word of thy brother, Nephi, and it shall be done unto thee even according to the words which I have spoken. Remember the words of thy dying father. Amen.”

As books around the circle are closed, Rarity rises and asks, “Mormon, would we please read one more chapter?”

At this point, I say, “The agreement was the fashion show would be after chapter three. That chapter's been read, and the reading for tonight is ended. Now it's time for the fashion show.”

The way Rarity looks at my character, I'm guessing she's looking for a way to change my mind. After a few seconds, when it's clear to her that she won't be able to find anything, she sighs, then says, “Oh, alright.” Then, as she marches toward my character's house, I notice, the way she holds her head, I'd say it lines up perfectly so that, from her nose along her torso, she's parallel with the ground.

Her actions are evidently a concern to her friend Twilight, who tries to ask her if she's alright. As the rest of the creatures around the circle rise and start talking amongst themselves, drowning out anything I might hear from Twilight and the rest of the element bearers, I watch, through my character's eyes, as she talks to her friends for a second, then trots over to Rarity to try to talk to her again. And, this time it seems that Rarity responds to Twilight.

But, as interesting as the conversation between them is, I have to get the crowd organized so that they can be in the best position to see Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Fluttershy as they come out, parade in among them, turn in front of Hoity Toity, return to the front porch, and take their positions there. With that in mind, I have my character stand up, put his copy of the Book of Mormon in his inventory, then walk to the front gate, then turn to the rest of the crowd; and I say, “Alright, everyone, here's how this is going to work. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Fluttershy, if you'll follow Rarity and Twilight Sparkle into the house, you can go ahead and get dressed. Vin—uh, DJ Pon3—and Octavia, you go inside, get your instruments ready, then bring them out onto the front porch. You can take the side of the porch opposite where Scout is sitting. Hoity Toity, you can take your position in front of the gate here. Everyone else, if you'll make two lines, one on each side of the steps to the porch, as balanced as you can make them, just a step or two back away from the steps to give the five enough room to turn around in front of Hoity Toity, that should be enough.”

One thing I can't help noticing is that Weed Whacker and Lyra follow Vinyl Scratch and Octavia into the house. I wonder if they have their own roles to play in the fashion show, perhaps singing along with Vinyl and Octavia's performance? Also, Spike has followed the element bearers into the house. In the episode, “Suited for Success,” he serves as MC for the event. He'll serve the same purpose here. Beyond that, I help organize the rows of ponies so that they can get the best view as the Mane Six parade in front of them, turn in front of Hoity Toity, and return to the porch, where they'll take their positions. I then head inside to see how things are going with the element bearers and Vinyl and Octavia.

As my character turns and closes the front door, from behind him I hear Vinyl Scratch say, “I appreciate you using my stage name in front of Hoity Toity.” As my character turns to her, she continues, “I heard you catch yourself before you could call me by my real name. Thanks for that.”

I answer, “Well, since, for all intents and purposes, this is going to be a stage act, I figured calling you by your stage name would be the most appropriate.” I have my character look at Rarity helping her friends put their dresses on, then turn back to Vinyl; and I ask, “Do you think you'll be able to get your sound system through this door?”

The white, blue-haired unicorn mare answers, “Oh, sure. I can easily levitate it over the boxes and everything and everypony, so that shouldn't be a problem. I'll just need somepony to get the door for me.”

I state, “I can do that easily enough. And, what about Octavia? Could she get her cello through all this?”

Just then, I see Octavia dragging her cello out of my character's work room, and into the front room. As soon as she sees my character, she says, “Oh, Mormon. It's a good thing you're here. I could use your help getting my cello outside.”

As Vinyl Scratch enters the work room, I have my character maneuver his way around the ponies and boxes to Octavia's position as I say to her, “Sure, no problem. I'm happy to be of assistance.”

My character gets to where Octavia is, then picks up her cello, holds it over his head, then maneuvers through the labyrinth of boxes and ponies to the front door again, followed by the gray earth mare.

At the door, Octavia opens it and allows my character to maneuver his way, careful not to hurt the cello, out onto the porch. From there, he takes the string instrument and places it near the corner, just far enough away from the edge so that Octavia can sit in a chair and play her cello without threat of falling off the edge of the porch.

After that, I have my character go back to the front door. And, he's just in time to open the door to allow Vinyl Scratch, who's supporting her sound system over her head with her magic. As my character moves out of her way, the white, blue-haired unicorn comes out, her system following close behind her, and takes her place in front of Octavia and her cello on the porch.

I have my character go back inside to see, through his eyes, all of the element bearers, except for Rarity, in their dresses. As my character looks at each of them, I say, “Now, I'm thinking the best way for you to present yourselves is one at a time. Each one comes out, walks to Hoity Toity, then turns and walks back to the porch to take her position, before the next one comes out. Does that sound good to you?”

Rarity puts a front hoof under her chin, hums in slight uncertainty, then says, “You know, that just might work out the best.” She then puts the hoof down again as she adds, “I'll stay here to decide which pony should go out next, and where they should stand on the porch when they come back.”

Then, Spike says, “So, Rarity, if everypony's ready, I'll go out and get things started.”

I state, “Well, in that case, I'll go and take a position next to Hoity Toity, opposite his servant.”

As human and dragon head out the door, Spike takes his position on the second step down from the porch; and my character takes his position next to Hoity Toity, where I planned him to be.

As Vinyl Scratch and Octavia begin their version of “Light Up the Land,” I can't help noticing Vinyl has a rather interesting talent for making at least one of this turn tables sound like a song bird whistling.

As Lyra starts singing, Spike clears his throat and says, “Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony fashions that truly express the essence of their very souls, patiently waiting decades, no, centuries, for the perfect pony gown. Today, at long last, Equestria, your wait is over. Let's hear it for the breath-taking design of Ponyville's own, Rarity!”

The first to come out is Twilight. Personally, it seems to me that if Twilight was looking for modesty, she found it. The only parts of her that her dress doesn't hide are her head from the neck up, and her tail. And, it's evident the pentagram stars hovering over her head are being suspended by flexible wires or something like that.

As she makes her way down the stairs and toward Hoity Toity and my character, if she's nervous, she's hiding it well. Perhaps a foot away from Hoity Toity she makes a U-turn and heads back to the porch, near Scout.

Next is Rainbow Dash, with the dress Rarity made for her more streamlined and hovering somewhat above the ground. If I may say so, her dress has turned out pretty well.

She jumps off the porch, then immediately opens and flaps her wings, hovering for a moment, then flies to Hoity Toity, bows to him, then turns and flies back to the porch, where she lands in front of Vinyl's turntable.

As Rainbow Dash folds her wings and turns to face her audience, Applejack emerges from the doorway, also leaps over the steps, but just lands on the lawn just in front of them. Now that I've gotten a better look at her in her wardrobe, it seems to me she doesn't seem to be wearing a dress at all. To cover her torso, she wears overalls and a saddle bag, with what appears to be a patched-up tablecloth covering her cutie mark. At the base of her neck she wears a handkerchief, and a ten-gallon hat on her head. On her feet she wears what look to me like moon boots. But, after all, wasn't that part of her wardrobe in the first place?

She trots proudly to Hoity Toity's position, makes a U-turn approximately where Twilight did, then trots back to the porch, taking position next to Twilight.

For the time that Applejack was taking her turn I think everyone there could hear Pinkie Pie begging Rarity to let her go next. As Applejack takes her place next to Twilight, indeed it is Pinkie Pie who comes out next. As she, like Applejack and Rainbow Dash did, jumps off the porch and, more like Applejack, onto the lawn, all I can say about her dress is it's just the way I remembered it at the boutique, except it looks stranger with Pinkie Pie's head sticking out from the neck, and her hooves from underneath. Every other part of her is hidden.

Then, she makes herself and her dress look even stranger by bouncing up to my character and Hoity Toity, then bouncing five-hundred-forty degrees in the air, then bouncing back to and up the porch, where she takes her position next to Rainbow Dash.

Last of all is Fluttershy, who Rarity has to push from behind out the door. As she stumbles ungracefully off the porch and down the steps, flaring her wings out to keep from landing too painfully on the ground, I find the most eye-catching part of her wardrobe is the bird's nest on her head. And that is not in a good way. Her dress looks, to me anyway, like a glowing flower garden, which doesn't seem all that bad to me. And, the butterflies suspended above the nest have been replaced with or smooshed into flowers. On her hooves she wears what look like green slippers.

More timidly and slowly than the others, she ambles up to Hoity Toity, nods at him, then U-turns, then gallops back to the porch, where she takes her position next to Pinkie Pie.

As Spike cheers for Rarity and the dresses she made for each of her friends, I can't help noticing, through my character's eyes, looks of confusion on the ponies who've been members of the audience for this fashion show.

Then, there's Hoity Toity. As he rises and approaches the five ponies on the front porch, he groans and says, “Ugh, that amateurish design looks like a piled-on mishmash of everything but the kitchen sink.”

I think the reason why there are giggles through the audience is because Pinkie Pie says, “Shoot! I knew I forgot something.”

In the mean time, I have my character turn to the gray earth stallion, and I say, “Now, Hoity Toity, I'd like you to take into consideration that those 'amateurish designs' are exactly what Rarity's customers asked for.”

It's at this moment that I notice, from the edge of my character's periphery, Twilight looking down at her dress, then at those of her four friends on display, then, with an expression of foreboding and regret, says, “Oh, dear.”

Fluttershy asks, “Is something wrong, Twilight?”

Rainbow Dash asks, “Do you think we overdid it?”

At first, Applejack confidently answers, “Nah.” Then, she looks down at her boots, then looks up again with a worried expression on her face, and says, “Alright, maybe a little.”

In the mean time, Hoity Toity looks up at my character and asks, “And, that makes it alright to subject our eyes to these … horrors?” Again he turns to the ponies on the porch, then says, “I must know who is responsible for this travesty, not to mention wasting my valuable time.”

At this point, I can't blame my timber wolf friend for rising and growling. But, at the same time, I can't have him attacking any of my guests, no matter how rude he or she is being. So, I have my character turn to him while I say, “At ease, Scout.”

My timber wolf friend responds by settling down again and ceasing his growling.

With that potential problem settled before it could get started, I have my character turn to the gray earth stallion again, and I say, “It seems to me that your time here will only have been a waste if you can't find something constructive to say.”

That's when Spike says, “Come on out and take a bow, Rarity! You worked really hard for this.”

But, as the purple dragon cheers her on, Rarity ambles out onto the porch head lowered, either unwilling or unable to look at anything past what's inches in front of her. Once she's at the bottom of the steps and in front of her evident idol, she stammers, “Y-yes, Hoity Toity?” She sounds like she's expecting to be punished by her father.

At this point, I have my character tap his foot as I say, “Well?”

Oh, and, by the way, I might as well mention that the song performed by Octavia, Vinyl Scratch, Lyra, and Weed Whacker ended shortly after Fluttershy took her place on the porch.

At any rate, Hoity Toity snorts under his breath, then says, “Oh, alright! But, I must give these … things … a proper critiquing.” Then, I'm sure I hear him say, again under his breath, “You're worse than my father.” Then, as he passes in front of my character, seemingly ignoring Rarity, who still follows behind him, he approaches Rainbow Dash and, looking at her wardrobe more closely, says, “Well, this one is actually not so bad. Clearly it's been designed for a pegasa who's accustomed to flying, and is mindful of her own safety. Even the hat has an aerodynamic feel to it.”

In response, Rainbow Dash lifts up a front hoof and poses proudly.

Next, Hoity Toity examines Pinkie Pie's dress closely and says, "Ma'am, you could've at least unpacked your dress properly before putting it on. Or, after having worn it to a party, you could've properly cleaned it before wearing it again.”

Pinkie Pie responds by glaring at the gray earth pony and snarling, “Hey!”

I have my character hold out a hand, palm facing my pink pony friend, as I say, “Now, Pinkie Pie, calm down. It's alright.”

As Hoity Toity examines Fluttershy's wardrobe, Pinkie Pie grumbles under her breath, “Alright? I don't think so. He just ruined my fun.”

It's clear to me that Hoity Toity chooses to ignore Pinkie Pie as he says, “As for this dress, again it's not that bad. But, that bird's nest has to go.”

In response, Fluttershy lowers her head submissively, and carefully removes the nest from her head, leading me to wonder if those eggs are actually real.

In the mean time, Hoity Toity examines Applejack's wardrobe, then says, “This is what I was referring to as a mishmash of everything but the kitchen sink. How can anypony call this fashion? Oh, for shame.”

The look on Applejack's face tells how much the gray stallion's words hurt her. Unlike Pinkie Pie, Applejack removes her hat and, with sincere sadness in her voice says, “Ah'm sorry.”

Finally, Hoity Toity makes a close examination of Twilight's wardrobe, then says, “Well, the constellations are no doubt correct. But, you look like you're wearing a throw rug or a tapestry. Hang this on the wall, or put it on the floor; but take it off and never wear it again.”

Twilight's response is to remain silent and lower her head, while her ears twitch in different directions, reminding me of chameleon eyes. Evidently this has been a humbling experience for her.

Finally, Hoity Toity turns to the white, purple-haired unicorn and asks, “And, your name is?”

She quietly answers, “Rarity, sir.”

Hoity Toity asks, “And, you made these … things … based on what these five said they wanted?”

Rarity answers, “Yes, sir.” At this point, she's reminding me of Fluttershy.

Now, Hoity Toity puts a front hoof under Rarity's chin and gently pushes it upward, forcing Rarity to look into his face, as he asks, “Tell me, is this the best you can do?” And, when he says, “this,” he nods toward the five mares on the porch.

With some emphasis, Rarity answers, “No, sir.”

Hoity Toity releases Rarity's chin and places the hoof under him again, then says, “I shall stay here for one more day, and this time I want to see a real fashion show.” He then looks up at my character and says, “I did not get to my position without making a few mistakes of my own. I want you to remember that.”

I must admit, I'm surprised by Hoity Toity's last message to my character. Or, was he actually directing that message at Rarity, or himself?

In the mean time, I hear Pinkie Pie squeak, “Oh, Rarity.” It seems the pink party pony is no longer angry.

But, the fashion show is officially over.

As five of the element bearers enter my character's house to remove their dresses, and Octavia and Vinyl to put away their instruments; my character follows closely behind Rarity as she enters the house, but stops and watches her as she heads through the hallway connecting the front room to rooms in that direction, enters one of the rooms at the end of the hallway, and closes the door behind her. And, not long after that, we hear what I would consider excessive wailing coming from there.

Twilight's the first to take her dress off, with the help of her magic, and Pinkie Pie is the first she helps take off her dress.

When Pinkie Pie is no longer encumbered by her dress, she looks at my character and asks, tilting her head, “Do you think Rarity's gonna be alright?”

I answer, “I think she will be, eventually.”

Twilight says, “I hope so. I can't help feeling responsible.”

Rainbow Dash, who has had no problems removing her dress, asks, “Why? What did you do?”

As distraught as Twilight looks, I'm surprised she can focus well enough to put her and Pinkie's dresses back in their respective boxes. After she does, she says, “We're the ones who had Rarity make those dresses exactly the way we wanted them.”

In a lower tone, Rainbow Dash says, “Oh, that's right.” Then, she perks up and says, “Well, they weren't all bad. Hoity Toity did like my dress, and he also liked Fluttershy's dress.”

Pinkie Pie growls, “Well, he also said my dress should be 'properly unpacked' before I wear it. He made the fashion show not fun for me.”

Applejack, clearly upset, says, “Well, he was right about my work duds. They're great for workin' and buildin' stuff and harvestin', but puttin' a cape on 'em don't make 'em fittin' for the Gala.”

Fluttershy says, “I thought a hat made to look like a bird's nest would make my dress stand out more. Well, it did, just not in a good way.”

Twilight Sparkle says, “He said my dress looked like a throw rug or a tapestry. And, he's right. The constellations are correct, but it's better off on a wall or floor than on a pony.”

Applejack asks, “Well, shouldn't one of us at least go talk to Rarity?”

Fluttershy, having just removed her dress, answers, “I'll go talk to her.” And, with that, she proceeds to follow Rarity's path to the room she's now occupying.

Twilight, watching Fluttershy make her way to the room Rarity's occupying, says, “Well, we can't just leave her like this.”

Pinkie Pie says, “Yeah. She could become one of those crazy cat ladies.”

Twilight turns to her pink friend and says, “She's only got one cat, and that one isn't here.”

Pinkie Pie says, “Give her time.”

At this point, I have my character turn to my pink earth pony friend; and I ask, “Do you really want that to happen?”

At my question, Pinkie Pie lowers her head and says, “You're right, Mormon. I'm sorry.”

Just then, I hear a loud thump, then Fluttershy yelp, then the yellow pegasa flies back into the front room and hides behind my character.

Seeing this evident response from Rarity, I say, “Well, I guess that means Rarity's staying at my house tonight.”

By this time, even Applejack has managed to remove her dress completely and get it into its box.

Twilight, looking at each of her friends, including my character, says, “Well, I guess that means the four of us leave without her.” Then, she focuses on my character and says, “On behalf of all of us, including Rarity, thanks for hosting the fashion show. I'm sorry it didn't go very well.”

I answer, “Actually, it went better than I expected it to. I managed to get some constructive criticism from Hoity Toity, and we can hope that Rarity'll eventually take it that way.”

Twilight says, “Well, I hope she'll be a good guest for you. But, the rest of us need to be getting back to Ponyville. Since Rarity's the only one who can get into her boutique, can we leave our dresses with you tonight?”

I answer, “Sure. I'll have to move them somewhere so no one will trip over them, but that shouldn't be a problem.”

Before I can say more, Twilight uses her magic to stack the boxes along the wall connected to the hallway, while the others move out of the way, so the dress boxes will be least intrusive. After that, she uses her magic to open the door, then leads the way as Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash follow her outside. Then, as the other three make their way to the front gate, Twilight lingers behind to turn to my character and say, “Well, like I said, I hope Rarity proves to be a good guest. See you tomorrow.”

As my character follows the four ponies to the front gate, I say, “Thanks for stacking the boxes out of the way for me. Goodbye.” Then, I have my character open the front gate and allow the four to exit, then watch through my character's eyes as the four disappear into the forest.

As my character turns to see Pinkie Pie right behind him, she says, “I'm really worried about Rarity. Do you really think she'll be alright?”

I have my character open his arms to offer the pink earth pony a hug, which she accepts; then I say, “Like I said, I'm sure she'll be fine. Criticism isn't always the easiest to take, and it can hurt. But, I'm sure Rarity'll recognize the opportunity that's been opened up to her to recover from this apparent loss.”

Pinkie Pie sighs, then says, “I know you're right. I just wish I'd seen that this was gonna happen to one of my friends.”

Just then, the front door opens; and Lyra and Weed Whacker enter the house with fruits and vegetables fresh from my orchard, vineyard, and vegetable garden.

From this point on, as Pinkie Pie and my character enter the house, concern for Rarity dramatically reduces, except for her not coming to join us for dinner.

It's Lyra who puts some food on a plate and leaves it at the door to the room Rarity's occupying so she can eat in case she gets hungry.

After dinner, I find myself having trouble finding something to write to the princesses, other than the results of the fashion show, which I saw them attend, and the fact that Rarity's parents were there for the event but evidently didn't stay long afterwards. I know that Rarity will eventually recover, and her friends wil play a large roll in her recovery. But, that doesn't stop me from worrying about how I can help her right now. She is, after all, staying at my character's house.

Beyond that, I write about how I noticed that Lyra actually has a pretty good singing voice. Of course, I also take note that the princesses must've also noticed that, having been present at the fashion show. And, I'm sure they've noticed that Weed Whacker also has a good singing voice, but I write about that in the letter as well.

Having written all I can think to write at the moment, I roll the scroll up and deliver it to Weed Whacker, who sends it to the princesses. And, after that, my character returns to his room, then prepares for and goes to bed.

I've already voiced my concern for Rarity in my letter to the princesses. I'm sure there's something I can do to at least get her back to Ponyville. But, in the mean time, with my character going to sleep, I decide to save and close the game. So, until the game's tomorrow, when I continue.

Author's Notes:

In the next chapter, which is based on the rest of the episode "Suited for Success," Rarity has to deal with what she clearly sees as her failure. And, her friends, including Mormon, help her with that.

This and more in chapter thirteen, "Rarity Addressin' her Failure."