Theme.

Rarity, Ponyville's Premier Pony for Fashion, is hard at work for her own dress for the Grand Galloping Gala this year. Unfortunately she had to delay this dress since last year with the ticket fiasco known as Season 1 Episode 3... And the tickets the princess gave were dated for this year.

Didn't know our princess was a troll. Tut tut, no matter.

Anyways, Rarity was focusing hard on her dress when Applejack and Twilight knocked on the door to her workshop and... opened the door right after knocking without even getting a response from the white unicorn... Anyways... Applejack and Twilight were whispering to each other about what Rarity is obviously doing, making a dress. Rarity was getting slightly irritated from all that whispering, so she decided to just confront them already, putting a nice tone in her voice as she did so.

"Is there something I can help you with?" Rarity matter-of-factly asked.

"Sorry to be much of a bother Rarity, but I need a quick favor. Can you please fix this button for me? It's my dress for the Grand Galloping Gala," Twilight requested as she showed said dress.

Rarity gasped. It was ugly. Very ugly. It would qualify for a party, but this is a formal affair. So yes, it was ugly. Ugly as... whatever expression is used for that.

"*gasp* You just can't wear that old thing to the Grand Galloping Gala! You need a new grand outfit! I'll make you one myself right now! Free of charge!"

"Spike said it was ok..." Twilight mumbled, thought, then spoke up, "Rarity you don't have to do that for me you know."

"Nonsense! We're friends, and also dating the same dragon! I won't take no for an answer."

"Well in that case, thank you very much for your generosity Rarity. It is greatly appreciated."

Rarity was thinking about the Grand Galloping Gala as she looked at Applejack and had a thought.

Applejack isn't the type to wear frou-frou stuff, but still she should be presentable.

"Applejack darling, what are you planning on wearing to the Gala since it is coming up?"

"Awww, I was planning on wearing my work duds," Applejack responded.

Rarity almost fainted.

Do my friends know anything about fashion?!

"Darling! *ahem* You do know that it is a formal event and you should wear formal attire right?"

"Hmmm... Nah."

"What if I spruce up your... duds a little bit?"

"Okay, sure. Why not? Since you are up for it and all. Just don't make them too frou-frou."

"Deal!"

Just then, a wild Rainbow Dash appeared through the ceiling of the Carousel Boutique.

"WHOOAAAA!" Rainbow screamed as she crashed into mannequins.

Now I have to get my roof fixed as well as do those two outfits... *sigh* does that pegasus know how to land without destroying anything? I mean Twilight is lucky to live in a tree that can regrow and repair itself while I live in a building that is non-living... Hey those cloths look like a good start for an outfit for her athletic figure... IDEA!

"Sorry, was trying a new trick again... didn't work," Rainbow squee'd.

"You sure you aren't just crashing in all the places for plot convenience?" Twilight matter-of-factly asks.

"Uhhh no?"

Anyways inside Rarity's head was a huge creative master plan.

IDEA! MUST MAKE DRESS FOR ALL FRIENDS! Ooo! Fashion Show Time!

"Rainbow Dash, nice of you to 'drop in' on us, you gave me an idea! I shall make you an outfit for the gala!" Rarity chirped.

"Outfit for the what now?" Rainbow was still dazed.

"I'll make one for you and you and you! EVERYPONY GETS A DRESS! Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy! Oh! And we can have a fashion show after all of them are finished!" Rarity was practically acting like a excited filly at this point.

Twilight was supportive of this idea.

"That sounds like a great idea Rarity! If you can handle it that is," she commented.

"Oh, it'll be a little bit of work, but it will be a wonderful boost for my business! Plus! Fun!" Rarity squee'd.

Rainbow Dash understood that Rarity had a knack for fashion and she wanted to impress the Wonderbolts with her appearance.

"Sounds like a good idea Rarity! Just of course, don't go overboard with the girly-ness, I want to impress the Wonderbolts after all," Rainbow contributed.

"Of course Rainbow Dash, I already know you quite well so I'll take that into consideration," Rarity reassured then continued, "So it's settled then, I'll make the dresses and then we have a small show in Ponyville!"

"Ya sure you can handle making all of those dresses there Rarity?" Applejack concernedly asked.

"Nonsense Applejack! Of course I can! Just drop the day after tomorrow!" Rarity chirped.

A Few Hours Later...

Rarity was overwhelmed. Her mane was disheveled and her magic was overworked. Six custom dresses was a lot to do in just two days. She got a considerable amount of work done today since she was adept at this, but still it was not good that she was pushing herself.

"Why did I opt to do this? It sounded like a simple task at first..." she wondered out loud as she fell asleep on her workbench.

Sweetie Belle, being a good sister, was quite concerned about this. She wondered why she made such a promise similar to Applejack. She understood that ponies like things to be done fast... well Rainbow Dash fast. Nevertheless, Sweetie Belle galloped and gathered Spike and the rest of the CMC and brought them back to the Carousel Boutique. Yes Scootaloo joined them too, she knew loyalty was one of the key factors in being a good marefriend (of course she was still trying to impress Spike too) as well as just friend in general, even if the task at hand was... unattractive at best.

"You see there's my sister sprawled out on her workbench knocked out like a brick," Sweetie Belle pointed out.

Spike was not one to see any of his marefriends in such a state. He noticed the hole in the ceiling and covered it with a tarp for the meantime. Since it was evening at this point and the sun was ready to set. Being good companions, friend, and drakefriend, the CMC and Spike lead the tired Rarity to the bathtub so she could take a relaxing and luxurious bubble bath. Spike also commanded Rarity not to do any more work for the day since then she would end up hurting herself. Rarity of course complied as she was way too tired to argue at this point.

While Rarity was bathing, Spike cooked up a meal for the CMC and Rarity since there was no way that Spike was letting Rarity use anything hot or sharp when that exhausted. The CMC were quite impressed at Spike's cooking, particularly Scootaloo who had never tasted anything that the handsome drake made (since Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom had already tasted the cucumber sandwiches he made). What Spike had made was hearty and comfort food (of course to the reader's imagination). Rarity required something like this to get her back up and running since she only had tomorrow to finish the entire order.

Rarity finished her bathing and sat down at the dining table where the CMC and Spike were waiting with their bowls of food. Of course Rarity had a bigger serving as she must have been famished from skipping lunch.

"Oh thank you for waiting for me dears," Rarity thanked then continued, "Spike did you make this? It looks quite appetizing if I do say so myself."

"Yep! Sure did," was Spike's peppy response.

"Wow Spike! This is really good!" Scootaloo was quite happy with the meal.

That meal was much better than what Scootaloo was normally used to. Yes, this universe's Scootaloo didn't really have much of what would be called a home. She was an orphan who doesn't know who her parents were.

Isn't he just wonderful? I mean like really I never met such a gentledrake before. *sigh* This meal is a once in a many times thing. Make the best of it Scootaloo.

"Thank you Scootaloo," Spike accepted the compliment.

The five of them of course had their small talk as they ate which included the CMC and Spike saying that they were already allowed to stay the night since they all agreed that they were going to help Rarity finish the dresses the next day and will do everything to keep the rest of the Mane 6 from seeing Rarity's disheveled state. The conversation then turned to parents which of course got Spike, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo quite uncomfortable understandably. In fact, it got so bad that Scootaloo ended up in tears and galloped off to Sweetie Belle's room, where the CMC and Spike were designated to sleep at.

Scootaloo was upset understandably since Spike had Twilight Sparkle his whole life and Apple Bloom at least had Applejack her whole life. Applejack had Big Mac, Rarity and Sweetie Belle had each other as well as their parents, Twilight Sparkle has her whole family, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were fillyhood friends and both had their parents. What did Scootaloo have? Nothing. It was just another reminder to her that she was essentially alone. The tears kept flowing from her as the thoughts just kept rolling in.

It was at this point that Spike decided to go see what was up since he was in the most similar situation as he doesn't know of his true family. Spike entered the room.

"Hey there. You doing alright?" Spike asked.

"*sigh* Not really. Just old memories resurfacing," Scootaloo moped.

"Do you want to talk about it? I mean family is a sensitive topic to say the least."

"What would you know? I mean I never knew any of my family and they probably abandoned me."

"You do realize that I am not related to Twilight which is why me and her can date right? Asides from that, what true family do I have?"

"*sigh* You do make a good point, but being a 'blank flank' Pegasus who doesn't have much backstory is quite depressing."

"You do know you are a great filly, Scootaloo. The fact that you can handle it is amazing to say the least. But still, I think we should do something about this don't you think?"

"Yeah..." Scootaloo was thinking this would be the best time to get her thoughts out, "Hey Spike, thank you for taking the time to speak with me when I'm down. I can understand why all those mares and my friends picked you... Aha... I think you know what I'm going to ask."

Spike, being the naive little drake that he is could only babble, "What is it that you want to-- mmph!"

Scootaloo had enough of Spike's naivety about the mares/fillies that like him (although there is only one left at this point). Yes, obviously she just went for the kiss. Spike melted into the kiss of course. They were so alike in many ways, yet the filly had it tougher without much to call a family. They then pulled apart.

"Well, understandable that you feel that way Scootaloo," Spike gave the young filly a hug, "yes I accept."

Spike thought about something and then continued, "Hmmm, Scootaloo, do you have anywhere to call home?"

"Aha... no..." was the filly's depressed response.

"Well, what do you think about living with me and Twilight? I think she'll appreciate the added company as well as the responsibility."

"You really mean that?" Scootaloo quietly asked in a similar manner to Pinkie Pie's calm voice.

"Of course. You've seen how loyal I am to all of my mare/fillyfriends."

"I'd love to Spike. Thank you."

They finished having their romantic moment.

"Well we should head back to Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Rarity. They must be concerned for you."

"Alright Spike," Scootaloo gave her now drakefriend a loving nuzzle.

They walked/trotted back to the dining table and took their seats.

"Everything alright Scootaloo darling?" Rarity asked.

"Yep! Doing much better now, thanks to Spike~" Scootaloo chirped.

"Wow, this is unlike you to be so loving," Sweetie Belle commented.

"What can I say? Spike's a catch~" Scootaloo dreamily sighed which was hilarious to Spike as Sweetie Belle gave him a small glare.

"Harem right?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Yep," Scootaloo responded.

After the reveal of Scootaloo joining, Spike and Scootaloo also explained about Scootaloo's predicament of having no house, and the solution of having her live with Spike and Twilight. Sweetie Belle, Rarity, and Apple Bloom of course found it quite cute.

"Awww Spike, I know I overuse this, but you're sweet you know," Sweetie Belle smiled.

"Y'all got that right, I think you done the right thing Spike," Apple Bloom reassured.

"Well Spike, you are quite mature for your age, I'm quite impressed," Rarity complimented.

Spike and Scootaloo of course then went out in the night to go fetch all of the Pegasus' stuff from wherever she was hiding out through the night which included her prized scooter. Of course it would temporarily be stored in Sweetie Belle's Room for the time being. They then finished their meal and cleaned up. Spike and the CMC then all took their bath together since cute. Of course taking a bath together resulted in a lot of splash wars and giggling which they all smiled at. They dried off after they were done and refreshed.

Spike then went to Rarity's room where the unicorn was winding down, but was still too uptight about things. He then had an idea, being a dragon with claws has it's upsides. Spike began to give Rarity a massage. Rarity had never felt such divine claws with fingers be used to relax her so much. She instantly melted into the relaxation. When Spike was finished Rarity gave him a kiss on the lips.

"Thank you so much Spike," she whispered before she dozed off.

Spike then tucked Rarity in and then went back to see the CMC since he was to join them for bedtime. The CMC were tuckered out from everything. Apple Bloom had earlier helped Applejack with chores before galloping to the Carousel Boutique. Scootaloo had to protect her possessions of course. Sweetie Belle of course was galloping to get Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Spike. They were all hard working fillies surprisingly. Spike sighed as the author suggested he give them massages as well.

Fine... I'll go do it.

And of course he gave each filly a massage. After all the massages, the three fillies sighed in contented relief.

"Thank ya kindly Spike," Apple Bloom smiled again as she spoke for the three of them.

"No problem, so off to bed?" Spike asked.

"Sure Spike," Sweetie Belle squeaked.

And go to bed they did. Similarly to Season 1 Episode 8, they all slept on Sweetie Belle's bed. The three fillies surrounded Spike with their bodies, laying their heads on the one in front of them's flank. Spike decided to lay his head on Scootaloo since she was the newest one. He stroked her mane as she dozed off, happy to soon have family as well as finally have a drakefriend. All was peaceful in the Carousel Boutique for now... until the next day when the five of them had just that day to finish their friends' dresses.

Transition to next day.

Spike awoke the next day feeling slightly refreshed. He was tense as usual. He now had to tend to 8 mares/fillies and also today he was to help Rarity finish all the dresses. The three fillies around him stirred from their slumber. They all looked at Spike with loving looks and batted their eyes at him.

"Good morning my Spikey-Wikey," Sweetie Belle greeted.

"Mornin' Spike," Apple Bloom greeted.

"Good morning Spike," Scootaloo greeted.

Spike blushed when the three of them each took turns at giving him a kiss on the lips. He then tried to get up, but his body completely cramped up and he winced.

"Ugh... I can't move," Spike cried out.

The CMC were concerned for their drakefriend of course. When one cramps up, what would the solution be? Of course, more massage ensued. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all tended to Spike and loosened his muscles to which he was thankful for. They all went down to the dining table for breakfast where they saw Rarity had already prepared them all a meal.

"Tut tut. It's time to eat up, we have a long work day ahead of us!" Rarity chirped.

"On it Rarity!" Spike and the CMC responded in unison as they sat down and ate.

Scootaloo was feeling much happier now that she knows she will have somewhere to call home in the future as well as the fact they are all essentially one big happy family. After that nice breakfast, they all went straight to work.

Montage of them working as well as the Rarity's Song "Art of the Dress".

The 5 dresses for their friends all came out nicely. Rarity's dress didn't get finished since of time constraints. As she would put it:

"Always put others first, it is the way to be a good friend."

Of course they worked into the evening since it was no easy task, so Rarity offered to trot/walk Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Spike all to their respective homes. They all gratefully accepted. Apple Bloom was dropped off back at Sweet Apple Acres with Applejack. Of course the farm mare would ask about her own outfit but Rarity just said to drop by tomorrow like she promised before. Apple Bloom then gave Spike a hug then a kiss on the lips before she went home.

And of course since Scootaloo was to live with Spike and Twilight, Rarity dropped them off at the Golden Oaks Library along with all of Scootaloo's stuff. Twilight was at first a bit surprised to find out that Scootaloo was an orphan, but she of course agreed to take the young filly in. She could use the extra company whenever Spike was spending time with the rest of the Harem as well as actually have a sister.

Scootaloo didn't stay with Applejack or Rarity since they already had their responsibilities to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle respectively. Pinkie Pie didn't have the space in where she lives. Fluttershy had... animals and the chickens kept pestering her. Lastly Rainbow Dash's house was in the sky... which was someplace that wouldn't be safe for her. As much as she would like to be with her idol, she opted that Spike would be nice as well as living with a good role model. (Did I cover all my bases? Yes? Ok then.)

Twilight asked the same thing as Applejack and of course got the same response. Sweetie Belle and Rarity then said their farewells which of course included a hug and kiss for Spike each. Now that Twilight was alone with Scootaloo and Spike, she decided to show Scootaloo around the place. Spike went to cook the three of them a meal as usual, he was the designated cook after all. Scootaloo was given a bath by Twilight.

Twilight's reasoning for this was, "well by all technicalities and definitions, you are my younger sister, and you deserve to have a proper fillyhood."

Scootaloo just smiled contentedly as Twilight washed her mane, knowing that she now has someone she can call family.

When Scootaloo finished getting her bath from Twilight, Scootaloo went down while Twilight washed up. Spike had recently finished his cooking and had served the plates. Scootaloo and Spike finally had time for themselves for a bit.

"So Scootaloo, how do you like it here so far?" Spike asked.

"I love it here! Twilight just gave me a bath and also the appearance of this library is quite nice, it's peaceful and comforting," Scootaloo inspected.

"Glad you appreciate it, we're sorry for not noticing that you didn't have much of anything."

"No problem, it's alright, I have kept it relatively secret for the most part."

Spike held Scootaloo for a bit on the couch, stroking her mane much to the filly's happiness. Scootaloo cuddled up to Spike and sighed contentedly. It was a little bit short lived since Twilight finished washing up.

The three of them ate their dinner/supper and chatted about how Scootaloo came to Ponyville and all of her adventures up to this point which of course included how she met Sweetie Belle and then Apple Bloom. It was interesting to Twilight that Scootaloo was a hardened filly that needed some love and care. They finished and Scootaloo decided to help out with putting away and washing the dishes since she was going to do her part in this household. Twilight was impressed that Scootaloo was actually very good and well behaved.

They all then went to bed. Twilight of course said that since Scootaloo was also part of the Harem, she was to join Twilight and Spike in bed as well. The amount of happiness Scootaloo was having of course skyrocketed at this. She would never ever be alone again. Spike and Twilight both took care of her now, one being a drakefriend and the other being a surrogate sister. She would also have no more need to fear lightning or thunder either now that she had somepony and somedrake to cuddle up to, not that she was terrified or anything, totally not afraid, she's a cool Pegasus. Absolutely.

Anyways, Twilight and Spike got into bed, Scootaloo opted for the Applejack style of jumping into bed which launched the other two into the air a bit. Twilight of course told Scootaloo to tone it down but still giggled nonetheless. Scootaloo cuddled up with her sister and Spike also cuddled up with Scootaloo. Twilight of course curled herself around the young ones. She kissed Scootaloo on her forehead.

"Good night, my little sister," Twilight cooed.

Scootaloo smiled in her slumber. Twilight of course gave Spike a kiss on the lips and wished him good night as well.

"Good night my number one assistant."

All was peaceful that night, it was a good day indeed... uh oh. Tomorrow would be the big reveal of the dresses Rarity made for her friends.

Transition to the Day of the Big Reveal.

Scootaloo awoke from her slumber the following day. She saw Twilight and Spike still in their slumber cuddled around her. She decided to wake her older sister via nose boop.

"Boop! Morning big sister!" Scootaloo cheerfully spoke.

"Huh wazzat? Oh hi there little sister," Twilight groggily woke up.

It was at this point that both of them decided to give Spike a nice wake up call. They got on either side of him and cooed into his ears.

"Good Morning Spike," Twilight cooed.

"Good Morning hot shot," Scootaloo cooed.

Spike jolted awake at Scootaloo's line but then remembered that Scootaloo is a part of their family now in many ways. Of course Spike gave Scootaloo and Twilight their good morning kisses.

"Good Morning to you two too," Spike greeted.

They all went through their morning routine as usual, Twilight being way more peppy than usual since today was the day that she would get to see the dresses that her little sister and surrogate sisters along with her drakefriend have made for her with the guidance of Rarity.

It's going to be a grand day!

They ate breakfast and then got on their way to the Carousel Boutique, Scootaloo and Spike both riding on Twilight's back in a similar fashion to Season 1 Episode 4. When they arrived outside the door, Spike and Scootaloo covered Twilight's eyes.

"You aren't allowed to peek~" Spike and Scootaloo cooed, excited to be able to show their handiwork.

"Very well," Twilight played along with a slight giggle.

They entered the Carousel Boutique to the lobby which was where the rest of the Mane 6 and the CMC were. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack were all blindfolded since there weren't enough hooves to cover all of their eyes.

"Ah there you are Twilight, Scootaloo, and Spike! We can finally do the reveal!" Rarity squee'd.

Spike kept his claws over Twilight's eyes while Scootaloo hopped down and helped the rest of the CMC bring in the five outfits made for their friends.

"Alright! Three! Two! One! VIOLA!" Rarity exclaimed.

Rarity removed the blindfolds from the four friends while Spike let Twilight see again. They saw their outfits/dresses in their full glory along with a smiling Rarity and CMC. To the reader, of course the outfits looked unbelievably amazing.... BUT... to the CMC, Rarity, and Spike's friends... it wasn't exactly what they wanted. Of course the author will skip all that dialogue to just simply say that they voiced their opinion after some delaying. This of course got Rarity all worked up while the CMC and Spike were a little bit down that their efforts were wasted.

"That's ok. Not a problem. This was only a first pass for my attempts at making you a dress. I was going in blind after all. You're my closest friends and I want you to be 110% satisfied. No worries, I'll just redo them," Rarity matter-of-factly responded to her friends' "not exactly approving" of the outfits she made for them.

"Oh, Rarity. You don't have to do that. They are fine," Fluttershy tried to defend.

"I want them to be better than 'just fine'. I want you to think they are absolutely perfect."

"Are ya sure? Ah mean, we wouldn't want to impose," Applejack defended.

"Oh, it's no imposition. Really, I insist."

It was at this point that the CMC and Spike were facepalming and facehoofing since Rarity needed their assistance in the beginning anyways, but they already vowed to help Rarity at this point since they were good fillies and drakefriend.

"Well... in that case... Thank you again, Rarity," Twilight finished off to speak for the group.

Rarity's smile faltered a little bit. She then whispered something to the CMC and Spike.

"Are you okay with another workday thing? I really do enjoy the company you know. Also again thank you for making sure I didn't fall asleep on my desk overnight."

"Of course Rarity, no problem, we understand. The answer is yes. After all, this is for all of our friends," Apple Bloom spoke for the four of them.

Rarity then whispered a quiet "thank you". It was scheduled that today would be the day that Rarity pieces together the initial dresses from their initial suggestions. The five of them would come in the next day to give their absolute input for final tweaks. Twilight and her friends left after giving Rarity each a list of the things they wanted. Twilight of course wasn't really worried since Spike or Rarity will always be there with Scootaloo to bring her home safely. Such is the beauty of being close friends. Rarity didn't need the CMC or Spike to stay over anymore since she will be watching her own health and well being this time after learning her limits.

As the CMC and Spike helped Rarity with the new dresses, Rarity voiced her appreciation and opinions.

"You know Apple Bloom and Scootaloo, I really do appreciate your willingness to assist. I also am surprised that you are much more well behaved compared to the other fillies and colts of your age range," Rarity started.

"What can we say? We learned from the best," Scootaloo voiced while she and Apple Bloom winked at Spike who in turn blushed.

"Ah, so that's why Sweetie Belle is much more behaved than usual," Rarity commented while Sweetie Belle just squeaked out about that.

They worked hard into the evening, taking a break for lunch which Rarity made as a thank you for yesterday. For Rarity, it was quite nice that she was able to work with her drakefriend as well, considering there wasn't much quality time spent with him since she was constantly busy. Ironically, she was still doing the same thing, making dresses, when spending quality time with him. Either way it was another job well done. Rarity of course walked Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Spike home as usual.

Everypony involved in this new outfit... "fiasco"... later were all in bed dreaming up of their designs as they fell asleep.

Constellations sound good. Just like my namesake.

Hmmm... I think functionality should come first. That includes waterproofing.

Ooo! Party stuff galore! Balloons and confetti! *cannon shot* Whoopsies!

Awesome... Awesome... Needs to be 20% cooler. *rant on measurement of cool* Rainbows. *snore*

*whole bunch of jargon about fashion*

Yes indeed, they all seemed to have different ideas on what beauty is... (*retch* *cough* Well then.) They all slept in comfort knowing that they'll be getting what they want... Sadly the same couldn't be said about Rarity.

Is this what my friends seriously think is beauty? I'm just getting insomnia thinking about this!

Rarity didn't get good sleep unfortunately.

Transition to the Next Day. It is time for Rarity's friends to critique her "new" outfits for them.

Fluttershy was one of the first ones to come in since she was mumbling fashion jargon in her sleep after all. The jargon that she was speaking to Rarity was so technical that even Sweetie Belle was at a loss for words. Rarity's mouth was just agape from all the terms that Fluttershy knew, although was able to translate all of it.

This sounds like one of those speeches given to make an idea sound good when really it isn't. But still, the customer is always right!

So, this is what goes on in one of my marefriends... apparently.

*tumbleweed goes across* *words do not compute, must add to lexicon*

Well, that was an insightful look at what went on in Rarity, Spike, and Sweetie Belle's heads... Anyways, Rarity had the CMC and Spike start on that one while she went to talk with Twilight who just trotted in to give her "thorough analysis of what a outfit should have to accentuate her personality". Rarity was in for a lot more jargon, but of the intellectual type this time.

The whole morning was occupied by Twilight and Fluttershy's outfit alterations. Rarity working on Twilight's and the CMC and Spike working on Fluttershy's.

The afternoon was spent on Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash's outfits. Twilight and Fluttershy's finished outfits were of hidden to the next two friends since there would be yet another big reveal day tomorrow, and surprises are fun and all. Rarity opted to handle Pinkie Pie's hyperactivity while the CMC and Spike went to help Rainbow Dash, of course Scootaloo was quite happy to be able to something for her other role model and said technicolor Pegasus was happy to have Spike working on her.

Well finally we have some development on my joining of the Harem!

Starting with Pinkie Pie, her requests are all that are typical of the pony's partying side.

"Ooo! Lollipops and Balloons!"

"I don't think--" Rarity tried to argue.

"DO IT!" Pinkie Pie smiled widely.

Rarity sighed and just got to work on putting said things on her already chaotic outfit. Not much to say there. Now on to the CMC, Spike, and Rainbow Dash's outfit.

"So Rainbow Dash, what do you want?" Scootaloo asked.

"..." Rainbow was thinking.

"Aren't ya gonna tell us to change something?" Apple Bloom asked since it felt like time was being wasted.

"No, I just want my outfit to be cool," Rainbow matter-of-factly replied.

Like that helps.

That helps a lot, Rainbow.

*sigh* Yep that's Rainbow Dash alright.

Very descriptive, Rainbow Dash.

"Do you not like the color?" Sweetie Belle inquired.

"The color's fine, just make it look cooler."

"Do you not like the shape?" Spike asked, of course blushing at the implications of this.

"No no, I'm sure it fits my body," Rainbow wiggled her flank at Spike, "just make the thing... you know... cooler. It needs to be about 20% cooler."

"And do enlighten us Rainbow Dash, what is this percentage measurement of cool that you are talking about?" Apple Bloom rightfully questioned.

Surprisingly Rainbow Dash actually had a full on explanation on what defines a percentage of "coolness". At least Sweetie Belle was able to comprehend such an explanation, but only barely.

"Okay, if you say so," Sweetie Belle commented, knowing that even to the CMC and Spike's standards the request was a bit... too flashy and gaudy as one might put it. But still, this was Rainbow Dash so it shouldn't come as a surprise to them.

The outfit making group managed to get Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash's designs done that afternoon and stored it with Twilight and Fluttershy's. For Rarity, Pinkie Pie's outfit was quite simple since it was just fabric and balloons. Interestingly enough the CMC and Spike had a much more strenuous task as what Rainbow Dash requested had a lot of metal involved. A little bit backwards to say the least.

Applejack was the last one to come in since she was busy working in Sweet Apple Acres the whole morning and afternoon. Unsurprisingly, her request was quite simple.

"What if it rains? I think waterproofing is in check," Applejack matter-of-factly requests.

*Record Scratch*

This request was so simple that the outfit making group just blinked a few times to let it set in that the most amount of ponies and drake would be going to fulfill one simple request when they split up to do the 4 dresses prior.

"Oh. Okay then," Spike responded for the whole group.

And it was done, they finished 5 new outfits. Everything was put away and Applejack took Apple Bloom home. Scootaloo and Spike requested to go home alone since the sun was higher in the sky compared to yesterday. Rarity of course obliged and allowed it. They said their farewells and departed for the Golden Oaks Library. Meanwhile, Rarity spoke to Sweetie Belle about the outfits.

"Oh, Sweetie Belle, these are the ugliest outfits I've ever made," Rarity began.

"Don't worry about it, we did it for our friends right?" Sweetie Belle matter-of-factly explains.

Rarity thought about it for a while.

"You know what, you're right Sweetie Belle. Let's go get dinner," Rarity finished with a smile.

The sisters then went along their usual routine after this.

Scootaloo and Spike strolled home peacefully hoof in claw, admiring the beauty that Ponyville had to offer. For a town that had citizens that fought over gold, they couldn't deny that the architecture was quite nice and beautifully constructed. It was quite heartwarming indeed. They arrived home and entered.

"Twilight! We're home!" Spike yelled out.

"Alright! Can you get started on dinner?" Twilight responded from the bedroom.

"Yep!" Spike then turned to Scootaloo, "I'm very sure you can give yourself a bath today right?"

"Of course, Spike," Scootaloo responded, gave Spike a nuzzle, and then went off to take said wonderful bath.

They ate dinner after Twilight finished her book, Scootaloo finished her bath, and Spike finished cooking. Spike and Twilight then took their bath, of course Twilight ended up dragging Spike into the bath with her much to the chagrin of the dragon. Twilight then had a thought of something the three of them could do now that it was night time.

She brought the two young ones to the balcony that Rainbow Dash had crashed on from being over-launched. They were going to go stargazing. Spike was resting on Twilight's back and Scootaloo was cuddled up to her older sister. There was a telescope set up that they all looked through, admiring Princess Luna's night sky. It was a heartwarming moment indeed as they spotted all the constellations.

They decided to sleep up on the balcony that day. Twilight levitated a blanked out from the library to cover them and then went to sleep as well. Tomorrow Twilight would be able to show the rest of her friends the design that she made herself. It would be a good day indeed... Oh... No...

Transition to the Next Day. It is now the day of the 2nd Big Reveal.

The Harem plus Rainbow Dash woke up, did their morning routine, and then went down to the Carousel Boutique for take two of the outfit reveals. Rarity's friends were of course interested in what each other had in mind for the world of fashion. Rarity wasn't doing as good at the rest though. She was feeling a bit spastic.

Outfits... Hideous... Must... NO! Rarity, do not destroy those outfits! Ugly... Bad... Disgraceful...

Rarity was going insane indeed. She was doing a good job at hiding the fact that she was coming down with a case of the "ugly". Yes, the "ugly" is a very very disastrous disease that causes one to be spastic and go practically insane. It only affects fashion ponies. It also didn't help that her own dress wasn't finished to soothe the symptoms.

The outfits were revealed and the Rarity's friends were all quite amazed that it was what they were looking for and captured their personalities quite well. It is understandable since they were fashionably inept.

While Rarity was slowly going insane, her friends scheduled the fashion show for the next day much to her chagrin. The CMC and Spike were concerned for Rarity's slowly degrading state, but couldn't do much about it since they didn't know about the disease.

Transition to Day of Fashion Show.

Spike was the emcee for the fashion show set up in Ponyville. The CMC were in front seats in the audience still looking quite concerned between each other. Since this was the Mane 6, the ones who saved Princess Luna, many Ponyville citizens were actually interested in this show. Rarity was dragged to behind the curtains of the fashion show since she was still degrading from the fashion-shock she was experiencing. Spike uncomfortably began the show.

"Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony fashions that truly expressed 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 breathtaking designs of Ponyville's own Rarity!" He managed to start the show without stuttering.

Rarity's friends then came out from behind the curtains wearing their custom made outfits. Ponyville was in shock that this is what came from Rarity's desk. Simply put, a lot of mouths were agape. Initially all of the mares on display were smiling proudly. But then they noticed the awkward looks that they were being given and started to talk among themselves.

"Why's everypony lookin' at us like that?" Applejack started.

"Oh dear," Twilight could only comment.

"You think we overdid it?" Rainbow asked.

"Nah... Okay, maybe a little," Applejack responded.

Their smiles started to turn awkward. Spike beckoned Rarity to come out and take a bow as their friends made their way back behind the curtains with uncertain looks on their faces. As Rarity trotted down the runway, she fainted completely, the "ugly" having fully taken over her. There was a collective gasp that came from the crowd including the CMC.

"SIS!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she and the rest of the CMC jumped on the runway to help Rarity.

"Rarity!" Spike exclaims as he also rushes to her side.

"Alright ponies! Show's over!" Spike announces to the crowd which now has dispersed.

Rarity's friends have turned around and saw the collapsed Rarity.

"Oh my..." Fluttershy could only comment.

They all agreed to take the fashion pony back to the Carousel Boutique. Rarity was laid on her bed after being dunked in a relaxing bubble bath. She was put in one of her bathrobes before put in bed. That was all they could do for that day. The bubble bath didn't really seem to work as Rarity was still a nervous wreck at this point. Twilight just made notes on Rarity's behavior since it was obviously less than normal.

Transition to the Next Day.

Rarity wouldn't allow anypony into her bedroom other than the CMC and Spike, since they were great helps. Her mane was disheveled and she was still wearing the bathrobe from yesterday. When the Mane 6 tried to talk to her, she just spat out a soliloquy.

"Leave me alone! I want to be alone! I want to wallow in... whatever it is that ponies are supposed to wallow in! Do ponies wallow in pity? Oh, listen to me, I don't even know what I'm supposed to wallow in! I'M SO PATHETIC!" was all Rarity said before going on to other incoherent words.

Twilight was then searching through all of her books for what was going on with Rarity. She happened to stumble across the disease called the "ugly". She found that the cure was to burn the source of the "ugly" (Literally "kill it with fire" *ba dum tsss*) as well as put her in front of a beautiful work done by the ones who caused the "ugly". This was quite the surprise to Twilight. She didn't think that the outfits were that ugly, but she knew what she had to do to help a friend out. She gathered the Mane 6 sans Rarity, the CMC, and Spike to show them the plan of attack on the "ugly". Understandably the Mane 6 didn't really want to burn what was essentially their own creations, but knew it had to be done. They had Sweetie Belle grab the designs for Rarity's own gala dress so they could piece together said wonderful work themselves.

When the original 5 outfits were burnt, Rarity could feel something lightening up as she regained some level of composure. She felt like a huge load has been lifted off. She still didn't feel like talking to her friends yet sadly.

The Mane 6 then pieced together Rarity's design for her outfit with the help of Fluttershy's "freaky knowledge of sewing". The CMC and Spike obviously couldn't help for the reason that it won't fulfill the 2nd condition for curing the "ugly" if they did. They then brought the fully finished outfit outside of the Carousel Boutique. The CMC and Spike went in to see Rarity. She was looking a lot better, probably due to the fact that one of the conditions for curing the "ugly" has been fulfilled.

"Hey Rarity, how are you holding up?" Apple Bloom asked.

"I feel a lot better now, thank you very much, what happened anyways?" Rarity inquired.

"Well sis, we all burnt the 5 terrible outfits you have made," Sweetie Belle answers.

"Oh, that actually explains a lot."

"And, we have something for you to see outside!" Scootaloo chirped.

"NO! I ABSOLUTELY WILL NOT GO OUTSIDE! I AM A LAUGHING STOCK!"

"But you must, it's something amazing!" Spike added.

"I know I should be trusting you Spike, but MY CAREER IS RUINED!"

At this point the CMC and Spike gave each other knowing glances and opted for doing things the hard way since this called for extreme measures. They threw Rarity out of her bedroom window which added another hole to the Carousel Boutique. When Rarity landed with a thud, she looked up and saw the most beautiful dress ever. And she could tell it was her own design. She saw her friends standing around it.

"Surprise!" They all exclaimed.

"Wha... what is this?" Rarity asked.

"We found you came down with a case of the 'ugly' and we knew we had to help you. Also it wasn't nice of us to take advantage of your generosity," Twilight matter-of-factly explained, "we did all of this to fix what we have done to you since you are one of our friends, and you matter more than our own selfishness."

Rarity was of course touched by this kind gesture. The final condition for curing the "ugly" has been fulfilled. Rarity's mane sprung back to its usual shape and she was overcome with joy.

"This is the nicest thing any of my friends have done for me. Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Rarity exclaimed and gave all of her friends a group hug.

Her friends all sighed in content relief that Rarity was back to her chirpy self. The rest of the day was spent fixing up the two holes in the Carousel Boutique. It was agreed that a take two fashion show was in order, and this time Rarity was fully approving of it now that all 5 of the good outfits will be showcased along with her now completed dress which she will treasure since it was made by her friends and not by her own handiwork.

The 2nd fashion show was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback since this was the Rarity that Ponyville knew. The CMC and Spike also cheered along as the Mane 6 showed their style. And all was well in Ponyville, the citizens knowing that Rarity would be their go-to source for all things fashion... well she was the only one after all, but she knew her stuff quite well.

Dear Princess Celestia,
This week my very talented friend Rarity learned that if you try to please everypony, you often times end up pleasing nopony, especially yourself (and possibly coming down with a fashion pony specific disease). I learned when somepony offers to do you a favor, like making you a beautiful outfit, you shouldn't be overly critical of something generously given to you. In other words, you shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.
Your Faithful Student,

Twilight Sparkle

Zoom out of the 2nd Fashion Show and Zoom out of Ponyville.

End Theme with Credits.