Friendship is Magic: The Seventh Element

by Master Mr B

"When the sixth element is revealed, a special element can appear that is a combination of the other six. It serves as the controller that bounds the power if the six elements together. But nobody, not even the royal sisters, have ever uncovered this...Seventh Element..." Follow my OC as he takes part in the adventures of FiM. And possibly win the heart of Twilight Sparkle...

69. Intermission 3

Intermission #3

Pony's Log Number 400: Sometimes I feel like no matter how much love I have to offer, I'll never get the appreciation I deserve. Am I going to have to draw the line...

Somewhere located on the heart of the South Luna Ocean was a collection of small islands that were home to one of the most popular vacation destinations aside from Las Pegasus. This was the location of Horse-a-lulu. A tropical getaway resort that sported one large city area and tourist destination on its main island while the other smaller islands featured more rural vacation destinations. It was at the hotel of one of the most rural island, Northwest Horse-a-lulu, that the newlywed Prince and Princess has decided to make their stay for their honeymoon. It had also been a surprise since everypony but the couple had known the Princess Celestia had chosen the location. She had also figured that the new couple wouldn't be hounded by fan-ponies as badly than if they had stayed at the main island. For the moment, Twilight was sitting on one of two beds of the bedroom to their luxury suite, which Princess Celestia had covered the expenses herself, as well as some other benefits like room service. Otherwise the newlyweds might have taken a more modest room. For the moment, Twilight was currently looking at various pamphlets and brochures in deciding what they could do during their two week stay.

"Now let's see," said Twilight as she looked at a paper she was using to create a schedule, "I know for sure that I want to see the island's observatory and this island's natural history museum...and who couldn't resist a romantic walk along the beach at sunset. I think Rarity packed me some tropical dresses...surprisingly..."

"Can you not wear a hat with your dress, Twilight?" Mario asked as he walked out of the bathroom, but his face wasn't visible to see at the moment, "I really want to put a freshly picked hibiscus flower in my wife's mane." Twilight giggled to herself. Being called his wife just made her feel all giddy inside.

"Alright sweetie, if that will make you...YAAAAAAAAH!" Twilight turned around to face Mario and screamed. A suspenseful tone was heard as Mario stood before Twilight with his face covered in a slimy green goop.

"What's wrong?" Mario asked innocently.

"You look like you washed your face in bog slime!" Twilight pointed out. Mario blinked and then laughed.

"Twilight, this is that facial mask cream Rarity gave me," Mario explained, "It's supposed to be great for my complexion and makes my face glow." Twilight just rolled her eyes at him.

"You seriously spent way too much time with Rarity," Twilight remarked. Mario sighed.

"You can't blame her for everything, honey," Mario pointed out, "What did you expect to happen when I have six mares and three fillies as best friends? And one of them is now my own wife?" Twilight giggled to herself.

"Just wash off your face please," Twilight asked sweetly. Mario smiled, even thought it was difficult to see it on his face, as he headed back into the bathroom and closed the door with his magic. Twilight then just continued to try and work on her schedule, but after a while she found herself frustrated with what she wanted to do, pushed the pamphlets away with her magic, and groaned.

"What's wrong, honey?" Mario asked, his face now clean as he came out of the bathroom and walked up and sat on the edge of the bed.

"I just don't know how to plan out our vacation here," Twilight complained, "It's not like anypony told us we were coming to Horse-a-lulu beforehand!" Mario chuckled.

"Ever thought maybe we could just...not plan and go have fun?" Mario proposed as Twilight's eyes shot wide open.

"Do you remember who you married?" Twilight commented as she looked at Mario skeptically.

"A beautiful mare who became a Princess," Mario replied. Twilight just rolled her eyes.

"Yes, and?" Twilight replied.

"She can be a little too organized," Mario pointed out.

"You're treading thin ice, my husband," Twilight warned.

"Sorry," said Mario, "I just don't want you to stress yourself out. This is our honeymoon! Let's just head out of the hotel and take a look around for today. Then tomorrow, we can organize a schedule together. That sound fair?" Twilight just sighed as she set her materials down and gave a nod. Mario then grabbed Twilight's hair brush and started stroking it gently against her mane. Twilight just sighed contently and let Mario do his job. However, a sneaky little smirk appeared on Twilight's face she started flicking her tail about. Several times, the end of her tail hit Mario's nose, making it difficult for him to concentrate before he dropped the brush and turned away.

"AH-CHOO!" Mario sneezed loudly as he grabbed a tissue to wipe his nose. Twilight just snickered to herself.

"If you wanted me to brush your tail, you could have just asked," Mario remarked, slightly annoyed. Twilight just gave him a cute smile as if she had made that very request. Mario just rolled his eyes and got to work. About half a hour later, both Twilight's mane and tail shined in the sunlight. Twilight rubbed a fore-hoof through her name to enjoy how soft it was.

"Alright," said Twilight as she climbed off the bed, "Let's get going." Mario smiled, put on the beret Twilight liked to see him wear, and they exited their bedroom, which led into the living room of their suite. Inside the main room was a living room and kitchen. The kitchen had with an island counter on it, with a personal stove, refrigerator and other kitchen shelves and cabinets. The living room had a couple of plush sofas, a low coffee table, and a music set along the opposite wall. In addition was an outside area that had a large balcony since they were on the top floor. Twilight then headed to the front door when Mario noticed something outside on the balcony and headed in that direction instead.

"Honey?" Twilight asked as Mario trotted over the balcony. He then opened his wings and flew up to a nearby tree filled with freshly grown hibiscus flowers and used his magic to pluck a yellow hibiscus. Twilight stood at the entrance to the balcony as Mario hovered next to her and placed the hibiscus flower into her mane. Twilight just smiled as Mario kissed her cheek as he continued to hover next to her.

"Come fly with me, Twilight!" Mario suggested as he put on his magic saddle bag.

"Mario, unlike you, I have no real flying experience," Twilight pointed out as she opened her wings, "I can't exactly fly with these things yet."

"But you flew so beautifully after the coronation, remember?" Mario reminded her.

"That was different!" Twilight protested.

"How so, honey?" Mario asked her curiously.

"I think it was just a spur of happiness," said Twilight, "I can't even stay off the ground for more than a few seconds anymore! In fact, these wings are such a hassle, especially when I'm trying to sleep." Mario just hummed to himself as Twilight sighed and closed her wings.

"Well, then ride on my back," said Mario, "you can just relax your wings and enjoy the ride." Twilight hesitated for a moment but then just smiled as she quickly climbed into his back and wrapped her fore-legs securely around his neck. Mario then opened his own wings and took off into the sky. For the record, Mario was just under 10.0 wing power in terms of speed, but thanks to practice from his magic wing power ups and some flying tips from Spitfire. Mario was fairly proficient with maneuvering and could even do a few tricks. Twilight knew the last one was true.

"Now slow and steady, honey," Twilight warned, "I don't want you...AAAAAAAAAH! MARIO! NOT THE LOOP-DE-LOOPS!" Mario just laughed hearted as he did a second one and then flew high up into the sky.

(cue Hawaiian Roller Coast ride in the background)

It wasn't long before Mario arrived just above some clouds. Twilight recovered and smacked the back of his head. Mario flinched but just chuckled to himself. It was then they flew by some sea gulls flying in formation.

"Hi there!" Mario said to one of them.

"SQUAWK!" the sea gull yelped before suddenly falling down.

"Oops," said Mario sheepishly, "Sorry!" Mario then flew off as the sea gull recovered. Mario then quickly scanned below and then gasped.

"Alright, they're there!" Mario called out.

"Who?" Twilight asked puzzled, "AAAH!" Twilight yelped as Mario descended rather quickly so they were flying just a few yards above the deep blue sea. Twilight was about to smack Mario's head again when she saw why he had flew down so quickly. Down below the two Alicorns was a huge school of dolphins swimming and jumping happily in the water. Twilight just smiled excitedly as she sat up on Mario's back and watched the dolphins play. Mario then flew closer the surface of the water and then, using his momentum, started to submerge in and out of the water like a dolphin. While only Twilight's hind legs went under the water, but the purple Alicorn still got wet. But Twilight didn't seem to mind that one bit since the weather was very warm. She just chuckled and giggled happily as Mario rose back above the sea and then lifted his head back to imitate the spout of a water fountain with his mouth. Twilight laughed happily.

"Woo-hooo!" Twilight cheered loudly as she raised her fore-legs into the air. Mario then titled a bit to the side as he gently flew then across the ocean some more and headed towards a large sandy beach in the background.

(End Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride in the background)

It wasn't long before the two ponies made their landing and were now just walking side by side along the beach. Along the way, they had run into a pony making shaved ice and were holding the little shaved ice cones with their magic.

"Mmmm...this pineapple-coconut flavor is really good," said Twilight as she took another lick, "Try it honey!" Twilight presented her snow cone to Mario, who took a modest taste.

"Not bad," Mario replied as he held his own closer to his mouth, "Thought I prefer my strawberry-lemonade." He took another generous lick of his own. Twilight just smiled.

"What?" Mario asked innocently.

"You're supposed to offer me some of yours," Twilight pointed out, slightly annoyed.

"Really?" Mario replied, still keeping a clueless demeanor, as he took another bite from his cone, "Why would I do that?" Twilight snorted.

"Gee...I don't know...cause I'm your wife?" Twilight retorted indignantly. Mario laughed.

"You're so cute when you get mad," Mario remarked. Twilight rolled her eyes at him when he presented his cone for her to taste.

"Help yourself my princess," Mario said to her gently. Twilight giggled as she took a taste, hummed happily, and then slammed his cone between his eyes, making him look like an Alicorn with two horns on his head.

"Exterior Brain freeze!" Mario flinched from the cold ice hitting his forehead. Twilight just laughed as Mario removed the ruined snow cone off his fore-head and tossed it away into a nearby trash can. Twilight was still chuckling to herself when he got a sly smirk on his face and grabs her snow cone with his magic.

"Mario, no...no!" Twilight pleaded, trying to be stern but then ran for her life, "Don't! Don't! EEEK!" Mario followed after her. Their little chase continued until Mario stuck Twilight's cone into her fore-head, making Twilight yelped from the cold ice on her fore-head. Now it was Mario's turn to laugh...until Twilight forced open his mouth and shoved the rest of the icy contents into his mouth. Twilight was in tears from laughter seeing Mario scream from a now internal brain freeze.

Once Mario had recovered, the couple then made their way towards a little cafe that sat along the edge of the beach. They had been having so much fun together that it was nearly lunch time. The fact they had skipped breakfast and had only had a snow cone made it pretty obvious they were both hungry. Mario's stomach gave a loud growl that startled Twilight.

"Whoa! Easy there!" Twilight exclaimed as Mario blushed.

"Sorry," Mario replied when Twilight's stomach growled just as loudly. Now it was Twilight's turn to blush. Mario chuckled.

"I love you so much," he told her sweetly. Twilight giggled and gave him a kiss before they found themselves an empty table and took a seat. It was then their waitress, an unicorn mare, came up their table and gasped.

"Prince Mario Star and Princess Twilight Sparkle!" she exclaimed, "it is an honor to have you two to visit my little cafe! My name is Sunny Sunshine. What can I get for you?"

"Could we...have a menu first?" Mario pointed out slowly. Sunny blinked before she blushed.

"Oh r-r-right!" she stuttered, "I'm so sorry! I'll...I'll be right back!" She quickly zipped away and then returned holding two menus with her magic.

"I'm sorry, I guess I got a little ahead of myself," Sunny said sheepishly.

"It's alright," said Twilight with a smile, "But can you please keep it down? We would like to just enjoy what your cafe has to offer without being hounded by fans."

"Oh of course," Sunny replied, "I'll give you a few minutes to look at the menu. Can I interest you in our special pineapple-lemonade?" Twilight and Mario smiled at each other.

"We'll take one each," Mario replied as Sunny smiled and headed off. Mario was just mumbling to himself when he felt two shadows appear behind his head.

"Huh?" Mario replied as he turned and saw two mares standing before him with giddy smiles on their faces. The one on the left was a pastel green unicorn with dark brown mane and tail. Her mane was tied up into a mini bun with a pastel yellow ribbon. She also had the same ribbon on her tail. The mare on the left was a cherry colored Pegasus with a white and light pink mane and tail. She also had a glittery gem studded cherry blossom barrette clip on the side of her mane.

"Hi, I'm Sakura," said the cherry Pegasus to Mario, "and this is my sister Anemone. We just wanted to say that we're, like, your biggest fans!" Mario just blinked as Twilight looked with interest.

"Well...thank you," said Mario slowly, "This is my wife, Princess..."

"Oh! Princess Twilight Sparkle!" said Anemone excitedly, "You're so pretty and so cute! Poke!" Twilight was left a little baffled when the green mare used her magic to make a fairy wand that had a lemon slice on the top appear and tap her cheek. Sakura chuckled.

"My little sister, despite her love for flowers, really loves lemons," Sakura replied, "she likes to pretend she is a lovable lemon fairy!"

"I spread hugs and pokes to all who need a smile," Anemone replied. Twilight giggled since it reminded them of a certain pink pony back home.

"Well, what can my husband and I do you?" Twilight asked. If one had paid close attention to Sakura's face, they would have noticed for a brief second that the smile on her face disappeared for a moment before reappearing again.

"My big sister and I just wanted some autographs," Anemone replied as she used her magic to pull out a notepad for the two of them. Twilight signed them first and Mario did the second. Sakura started making light squeals as Mario signed her notepad.

"Please put "to your precious sweetie Sakura," the cherry Pegasus asked giddily. Mario rolled his eyes discreetly as he did what was asked and then handed Sakura her notepad, which the Pegasus grabbed with her wing and tucked it into her mane.

"Thanks!" the two mare said excitedly before galloping away. Twilight gave her husband a smirk.

"Have fun with your fan-girls?" Twilight asked with a smirk, her jealousy was not that well hidden from him.

"No," Mario replied bluntly, "That Sakura pony was making me feel rather uncomfortable."

"Well, they're gone now, so let's find something to order and get some lunch, I'm starving," Twilight replied.

"Good idea," said Mario with a sigh. It didn't take long before they did find something to order and ate quietly until they heard the sound of a radio nearby. Summer had used her magic to raise the volume a bit when the music was replaced by an audience applauding.

"And now back to our program," said radio host number one, "it has been said that our Prince and Princess are spending their lovely honeymoon somewhere in the South Luna Sea."

"Yeah probably to find the right spot to throw the Prince overboard," said radio host number two as some background audience laughter was heard, "I mean what did she see in the guy?" Mario flinched at that comment. Even Twilight was taken aback by the brash comment.

"Isn't he just some baggage Princess Celestia took in as a foal?" radio host number three remarked, "Bet she gave him wings just so he would stop crying."

"I hear she even gave him new hind legs after he wrecked his own," radio host number four added, "I still say he got away with using magic spells to enhance his speed!" Some murmurs from the audience showed that they agreed with them.

"I know right?" radio host number two added, "Who has ever heard of anypony breaking speeds of Mach 2 on their own!? It's not realistic!"

"Mario Star himself is unrealistic!" radio host number four added, "just the fact Princess Celestia says he's the Seventh Element of Harmony is downright disgusting! He's SO fake!" The audience from the radio cheered.

"I bet those friends of his just stuck him in somewhere during their great feats of heroism just so he could have credit for saving Equestria!" radio host number one added, making the audience cheer louder.

"He thinks he's part of that group of mares when really he's just nothing but an add-on!" radio host number two remarked. It was then Summer arrived at the table and Mario was looking most upset.

"Excuse me!" said Twilight quickly, "can you please change the radio station? It's upsetting my husband!" Summer looked puzzled until she heard some laughter from the radio.

"I bet Mario's got ugly he hasn't even used yet!" radio host number one said with a chuckle as the audience laughed harder. Summer gasped and quickly changed the station.

"I'm so, so, sorry," said Summer sadly, "I wasn't paying attention to the radio and I didn't realize they were on the air!"

"Who are those ponies anyway?" Twilight demanded, "and what gives them the right to insult my husband like that?" Summer sighed.

"They are the hosts of Horse-a-lulu's most popular radio program, The Saddle," Summer explained, "their radio station is here on this island. They like to discuss current events in Equestria...and make hurtful insults about ponies, especially royalty."

"Well that doesn't seem right," Twilight remarked, "My husband and I just might have to pay a visit to this radio station and give them a piece of our minds."

"What's the point, dear?" Mario replied sadly, "No matter where in Equestria I go, ponies just find me such an easy target to mock and heckle."

"Hey, don't let those jerks get to you," said Twilight as she held his fore-hoof, "Sunny went to alot of trouble to make this delicious lunch for us. Let's eat and go explore the town okay?" Mario looked at her sadly and then smiled.

"Okay," said Mario as he looked at the food, "the food is really delicious..." Sunny chuckled as she let the royal couple enjoy their meal. Once the two Alicorns had finished and paid for their meal, which Mario gave Sunny a generous tip, they headed towards the town. They were waiting patiently for the traffic signal to change so they could cross the street when Mario gave his wife a kiss on the cheek. Twilight returned the gesture, making Mario chuckle.

"It's nice when the love you give gets returned," said Mario as Twilight leaned against his side a bit as Mario held her with one of his wings. They had barely finished crossing the streets when they ran into two familiar fan girls.

"Hey there!" said Sakura.

"Hello girls," said Twilight, trying to stay polite and cheerful, "what brings you here?"

"Well," said Sakura as she walked up to Mario's face, "Since we actually live here, we thought you two like to have a tour of the town to know where all coolest places are." Sakura batted her eyelashes at Mario.

"Good grief," Mario groaned with an eye roll, "We appreciate the thought girls...but my wife and I just wanna..."

"We'd be happy to take you up on that offer!" Twilight interrupted, making Mario's look at her with a slightly opened mouth.

"Excellent!" said Sakura as she wrapped a fore-leg around Mario's forelegs, "step right this way!" She continued to try gazing into Mario's eyes as he just looked away and gave his wife a "why'd you say yes" look on his face. Twilight just giggled to herself as Anemone walked along the side her sister.

For the most part, the tour was actually very enjoyable. Sakura showed them all the coolest places in town, like a local outdoor market place, the town's personal arcade (where Twilight had to drag Mario out of the building since he got hooked on a game called Pac-Pony), several local diners and dives famous for classic eats and island exclusive specialties, the observatory, the island's local library (Mario had to drag Twilight out of that building), the local pawn shop where Twilight wanted to do some "antiquing" at some point, and even a spa. The only downer was the fact that everywhere the four ponies went, some of the town's ponies would be making rude comments about Mario. Twilight continued to encourage her husband not to let it bother him, but she knew Mario was feeling hurt by the remarks. And as cute as it looked seeing Anemone tell some of them off and threatening them with "hard lemon pokes", it did very little in cheering up the Alicorn Prince.

By late afternoon, the group had stopped at the last location of the town tour, which was a small little house that was home to a hula dancing school. Mario and Twilight couldn't help but awe at seeing dozens of little native foals, colts, and fillies learning how to do their island's native dance. Plus the young ponies were more than excited to see both Mario and Twilight, which really helped brighten the former's mood. And both Anemone and Sakura were experienced enough to show the couple the dance themselves. The hula was a difficult dance to learn because of the fact that it required a pony to balance and sway using only their hind legs. So with each Alicorn wearing a grass skirt, a white tank top, leafy bracelets on their hooves and a leafy crown on their heads. They began their own lesson with the two sisters. Mario was rather impressed to see Twilight was a much faster learner at the hula than he was.

"You're really good at this," said Mario surprised as Twilight just had her eyes closed and embraced the music.

"And you said that I couldn't dance," Twilight remarked as Mario blushed.

"I was talking about your freestyle!" Mario retorted, "You're clearly good at tap and ballet!" Twilight chuckled and just continued to dance gracefully when Mario was still feeling rather stiff.

"Try to relax a little more," said Sakura as she got rather close to the Prince, "Just embrace the music of the island!" She battled her eyelashes at him again. If Mario hadn't felt uncomfortable before trying to hula dance, he certainly did now. Twilight took notice when she danced over to Sakura and roughly bumped her out of the way, causing the cherry Pegasus to crash somewhere in the background.

"Need a rescue?" Twilight asked him with a smile on her face. Mario smiled back.

"My hero," said Mario, feeling better and finally was able to move a little more fluently. Sakura recovered as she got to her hooves and just watched the two Alicorns dance together. She growled jealously.

"Oh it is on, Princess!" Sakura snarled to herself. Anemone noticed her sister's face.

"What are you up to?" Anemone asked suspiciously.

"Watch your tone and bud out, little sister," said Sakura indignantly and went back to the royal couple. Anemone glared at her.

"Don't make me give you hard lemon pokes," Anemone warned, but she said that to herself.

Soon the sun began to set in the sky as the four ponies made their way back to the hotel Twilight and Mario were staying at.

"Well, thank you two so much for tour of the town," said Mario, "This should help my wife and I plan out our stay here."

"But we only showed you the town, Prince Mario," Anemone pointed out.

"Just Mario please," he told her gently, "same goes for my wife. No need for formalities with us. We consider you guys our friends." Anemone was a little surprised while Sakura bounced giddily on her hooves.

"Oh...okay, Mario," Anemone replied, "As I was saying, there's even more fun to do around the island, especially around the beach and the mountains!" Mario and Twilight exchanged smiles with each other.

"Well, would you girls mind if we continued the island tour tomorrow?" Twilight offered. Sakura and Anemone smiled excitedly.

"Ooooh, we would love to, Princess Twilight," Anemone answered, "Oh! I mean...Twilight. We can even show you our garden and our personal greenhouses where we grow our special flowers year around!"

"I'm guessing cherry blossoms and anemones?" Mario asked since he had noticed those were the flowers they had for cutie marks.

"You got it, handsome," Sakura replied with a wink as Mario made a face of disgust and annoyance.

"Well, we'll be see you tomorrow then," said Twilight, trying to get Mario out of an awkward situation, "How's around 9-ish in the morning?"

"Works for us," said Sakura, "it was a pleasure getting to spend the day with you!" Sakura extended her hoof to shake to Mario, but Twilight grabbed it instead.

"Likewise," Twilight replied as she gave her a smile. Sakura returned it, but in both of their eyes, Mario could see the signs of two mares staring each other down and the looks remained as they pulled away.

"We'll see you tomorrow," Anemone answered, "Hugs and Pokes to you all!" Twilight giggled as Mario smiled.

"Same to you," Twilight answered as the two sisters left and the royal couple headed inside. Mario stayed rather quiet for the most part and remained that way long after the sun had set and the two ponies were enjoying a little late night coconut cake while watching some earth ponies spin and twirl wooden sticks that were on fire in the hotel patio area. The two ponies finished their routine by drinking some water and spewing it at one end of their sticks to make a giant flame appear. Twilight oohed in amazement as she and the crowd applauded. Sure, Spike could have probably done that trick easily, but it was still impressive to see an earth pony do it. Mario did as well, but his clapping was more half hearted. He had something on his mind.

"Sweetheart," said Mario as Twilight took a rather sloppy bite of her coconut cake.

"Yes?" Twilight asked with her mouth full of cake. Mario was tempted to tell Twilight about bad manners, but he let it slide.

"Why did you suggest we spend more time with Sakura and Anemone?" Mario asked.

"What's wrong with spending time with our new friends?" Twilight replied.

"Friends I don't mind," said Mario, "I mean I have no problems with Anemone. It's just...if you hadn't noticed...Sakura...was getting a little too friendly with me."

"I know, honey," said Twilight as she took another bite of her cake and used her magic to wipe her cheeks, "But as long as I'm around she can't hurt you."

"True, but she was making me feel very uncomfortable," said Mario, "Like..."Pinkie Pie having a crush on me" uncomfortable."

"Maybe when we see them again tomorrow, you can tell Sakura how you're feeling," said Twilight, "I'm sure if you tell you how her behavior is bothering you, she'll back off."

"It's a good idea, honey," said Mario as he took a bite of his cake and swallowed, "Guess I really did marry the smartest mare in Equestria." Twilight rolled her eyes.

"Okay, that was just...cheesy," Twilight remarked.

"But it is true," Mario remarked as he leaned forward to kiss her and Twilight returned to gesture. As they pulled away, they saw a mare who was clearly from the upper class looking at them snootily.

"What do you see in him, child?" she asked in her stuck up manner, "He's not real royalty."

"And yet he has wings just like I do," Twilight retorted angrily as Mario glared and opened his wings to prove a point, "And I clearly see alot more about him than you can!" The mare just huffed and walked away from them. Mario growled angrily as he slammed a fore-hoof to the table.

"What's wrong with me?!" Mario snapped. Twilight then used her magic to set her chair next to him and rested her head against his shoulder.

"Absolutely nothing," said Twilight, "They're the ones with the problem." Mario hummed and just held his wife close while staring at his unfinished cake. Twilight's eyes shifted from her husband to the slice of half-eaten cake.

"You gonna eat that?" Twilight asked with a large smile on her face. Mario just smiled, rolled his eyes, and used his magic to feed the cake slice to her. As good as the coconut cake was, he was still partial to chocolate.

The next morning, the two sisters wasted no time taking the royal couple over a large stretch of land that seemed to be as big as Sweet Apple Acres. The big difference was that the landscape was filled with various kinds of tropical and seasonal flowers and trees to boot. Since it was also late spring, most of the flowers were in full bloom, adding to the area's natural beauty.

"Whoa!" said Mario and Twilight in amazement as they scanned the area and looked at all the types of flowers growing around the area. They also noticed that the heart of the garden area had a rather large and extravagant fountain with a little dragon statue on the top surrounded by a rather large sized Gazebo structure above it.

"This is quite a lovely garden," said Mario.

"You two must have worked really hard to make the place look so pretty," said Twilight.

"Well, it does take alot of work managing so many different types of flowers," Anemone answered, "Fortunately, we've got the library..."

"Library?! Did you say library!?" Twilight exclaimed excitedly as she zipped up to the lime green ponies face, leaning forward on her fore-legs.

"Uhh...y-yeah," said Anemone timidly, "I-I can show you if you want me to."

"Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!" Twilight replied, bouncing on her hooves excitedly and opening her wings.

"Alright, come and follow me," said Anemone with a giggle. Mario was about to follow when Twilight turned around to face him and closed her wings.

"Sweetheart, didn't you want to speak to Sakura alone while I go check out the (squee) library?" Twilight asked her husband. Sakura was kind of surprised to that Twilight would suggest that, but was still excited to be alone with Mario. Mario just nodded nervously as Anemone led Twilight to their garden library. Mario then turned to see Sakura, just smiling and batting her eye lashes at him. Mario just sighed loudly.

"Sakura, we need to talk," said Mario gently.

"What about cutie?" Sakura asked. Mario breathed deeply to keep his cool.

"Sakura, I can tell you...like me..." Mario said gently.

"Love is the better word," Sakura replied. Mario grunted angrily.

"Sakura, I'm as much a believer in love in first sight as the next pony," Mario said firmly, "I mean that's how I felt seeing Twilight for the first time, but you're really making me feel uncomfortable when you keep getting my face and trying to be all cute with me all the time!" Sakura just blinked.

"Y-y-you mean," Sakura stuttered, "you...don't...like me?" Sakura's eyes watered as she sat down and started to cry.

"Sakura..." Mario said gently. He hadn't meant to make the cherry Pegasus cry.

"S-s-s-sorry," Sakura croaked, "it's just...I do like you and...well...I had hoped I could get you to like me back...and...I...I just wanted..." Sakura was sobbing as Mario sat next to her.

"Listen, Sakura," said Mario, "I didn't mean to sound cruel. I'm just saying that you don't need to keep getting in my face and trying to make me like you. If you just try to be my friend, then I can like you in that manner. My wife won't object to that!"

"But I want more than that!" Sakura wailed.

"I'm sorry Sakura," said Mario, "But I already have my special somepony. But if you need a friend who cares I'd be more than happy to..."

!

What happened next, caught Mario completely off guard. Sakura quickly wrapped her fore-legs around his neck...

and she had kissed him on the lips!

And before Mario could push her off, Twilight had returned!

"Honey," she called out excitedly, "you should see all the cool books Anemone has on...GASP!"

Twilight was just in shock for a moment before her eyes watered and she tried to take off into the air as she began to attempt to fly away, but she was couldn't take off and soon just left her wings open and ran off.

BOOM!

Mario then used a force field to knock Sakura away. He was furious.

"Now look what you did!?" Mario yelled at her before trying to take off and search for his now distraught wife. Sakura just watched Mario take off into the sky as she began to cry once more. It didn't take long before Mario saw Twilight trying to run off as fast as her hooves could take her, tears streaming down her face, as he flew above her.

"Twilight! Twilight! Twilight, wait!" Mario called out, but Twilight refused to stop. Mario then used his magic to teleport in front of her, bringing Twilight to a stop.

"Twilight, please I..."

SMACK!

"Don't talk to me!" Twilight yelled angrily as she slapped him hard across the face, "Just stay away from me you cheating mustang!" Twilight then ran around him and tried to take off before Mario teleported in front of her again.

"Twilight, let me explain," said Mario but Twilight ran around him again. Mario tried to teleport before her once more time, this time so quickly as Twilight slid right into him trying to stop. Mario held her as she landed on top off him and sat up.

"Let go of me!" Twilight shouted, as Mario gently but securely held her in his fore-legs as she struggled to break free.

"Will you listen to me!" Mario pleaded desperate, "What makes you think I would ever do that to you?"

"I saw you kissing her!" Twilight yelled.

"That doesn't mean I'm the one who did it!" Mario replied, "She caught me by surprise and I couldn't move out of the way!"

"I likely story!" said Twilight, "You stallions are all the same!"

"What's that supposed to mean?" Mario snapped back, "Do you really think that after all this time I spent staying committed to loving you and you alone that I would just go and kiss the first girl who asked me to?"

"YES!" Twilight screamed, leaving Mario stunned as he finally let her go. He started to pant heavily as hot tears streamed down his face.

It wasn't from guilt or shame though.

Mario... had fury!

"You would choose to believe all those lies in your stupid head, Twilight Sparkle," Mario sobbed angrily, "instead of trying to listen to me or even thinking that this was just a misunderstanding and not me trying to betray you. You just assume the worst of me. This isn't the first time you've done that to me and all I can't say is...I'VE HAD IT! If you don't wanna be with me, then I won't stop you! And thank you so much for showing me that everything I ever believed in was just lie!"

"And what's that supposed to mean?!" Twilight yelled back.

"No matter how hard I try to spread love and compassion to others," Mario croaked, "all my effort is completely meaningless because you ponies are all the same. No matter what I do, you'll always think one way of me and nothing else! You're no better than all those ponies who spend their days tearing me apart from the inside out!" Mario had barely finished his sentence when Twilight had just taken off into the air. Of course she didn't go flying for long Mario saw her make a crash landing. Surprisingly, Mario just watched and didn't even see if Twilight was alright.

"LOVE IS WORTHLESS!" Mario screamed as loud as he could before he turned to fly off in the other direction and didn't look back. Twilight had heard him, but she just kept running in the opposite direction.

Mario soon arrived at the beach where he had brought her after they did some dolphin watching yesterday. Several other ponies were just enjoying some fun at the beach, but Mario clearly wasn't. He was fuming to himself as he kicked a sea shell along the surf.

"Stupid Twilight," Mario grumbled, "I already felt bad enough having some mare try to put her lips against my own. Then you go and think I would enjoy it. I didn't spend most of life trying to get you to notice me to betray you! But did you care! No!" Mario then picked up several sea shells and started chucking them back into the water. Mario just huffed as he tried to calm himself down when a beach ball conked him in the head, leaving him dazed.

"Oops, sorry sir," said a young colt, "my sis isn't good with playing catch."

"I am so!" the young filly, "You just throw too hard!"

"Do not!"

"Do too!"

"Do not!"

"Never mind!" Mario snapped irritably as he used his magic to hand them the ball, "Just take your ball!" The two ponies flinched as Mario sternly gave them the ball, but the two foals just trembled nervously, not bothering to grab their ball.

"Oh great," Mario retorted aloud as he dropped the ball in front of them, "now they think I'm some meanie for yelling at them. Bet they'll tell their parents and they'll complain that I'm mean to kids. Then it'll be in the papers that I don't like little ponies and UGGGGGGGH!" Mario then crouched to ground in frustration. He didn't even realize that the young siblings were still there, watching him vent.

"Are you okay mister?" the young colt asked gently.

"No, I'm not," Mario replied in depressed as he sat up, "Just go have your fun with your sister and be nice to each other I guess." Mario then opened his wings and flew off. The two just watched him leave with puzzled looks on their faces.

Mario then decided to just take a stroll about the town. He immediately found it bad idea because he was still walking past ponies who would look at him and murmur comments about him. Mario snarled.

"Horse-a-lulu, the best place to get away from it all. A tropical paradise!" Mario retorted in a mocking manner, "Bleh! Yeah right! I outta have the dodo who came up that slogan put in prison for false advertisement!" As he passed by, he took notice that one pony was struggling to carry a tall stack of boxes into one of the local shops. Suddenly the stallion lost his balance and the stack of boxes wobbled dangerously. Mario just watched the scene unfold until he flinched as the stallion fell over and all the boxes landed on top of him. A nearby mare, who looked young enough to be his daughter asked if he was alright. Mario then kept walking and pretended his hadn't seen anything. Doing so made him feel a pain in his heart.

"What?" Mario asked his own conscious when he saw the stallion yelling at the mare of what had happened, "Sure, I could have stopped the accident or helped out, but what good would it do? He'd probably just complain that I meddled in his business. He's practically doing that to that younger mare!" Mario had been right at that. He could see from the corner of his eye that the younger mare was being scolded by the older stallion. Mario then headed further up the street where he saw a local smoothie shop that was very overcrowded. Customers were complaining about slow service, even when there appeared to be only one mare trying to be a waitress. She seemed to be getting most of the complaints and was looking very overwhelmed.

"I could help her...forget it," Mario grumbled, "All that's gonna do is give those ponies a reason to blame their lack of patience on me! And I've had enough of ponies blaming me for their own miserable lives!" Mario then saw his reflection in a puddle of water, which showed the bitterness on his face.

"They don't deserve smoothies if you ask me," Mario said to himself as his reflection glared at him.

"Neither do you, Mr. Selfish," his reflection remarked as Mario growled.

"Who are you calling selfish?!" Mario yelled at his own reflection, "You're supposed to be on my side! I don't like you anymore!" Mario then stomped hard into the puddle, getting himself wet before opening his wings and taking off into the sky. Little did he know that a certain cherry colored Pegasus had been sitting at a nearly bench pretending to read a newspaper when she lowered it, revealing a very sad and tear stained face.

"What have I done?" Sakura asked herself in shame.

It was already night fall when Mario just, came for a landing near the summit of the island's dormant volcano. Mario just stared at the vast green valley below him. As beautiful as the sight was, it only made Mario feel very depressed and very lonely. He was just glad the location was on a small hiking trail so he knew he wouldn't be disturbed or bothered. He didn't think anypony would care to come after him anyway.

"What's the point of sharing love with ponies anyway?" Mario asked himself as he looked up to see what was a clear starry night, "The second something goes wrong, nopony is going to be by your side. They just leave you at the mercy of ponies who spend the rest of their lives tearing you apart." Mario looked at the valley as he felt his eyes water. As angry as he was, he couldn't deny one thing about himself.

His was heartbroken.

"You always had to be right about me didn't you!" Mario shouted angrily into the distance, "That I never deserved to be loved! THEN WHAT'S THE POINT OF SHARING LOVE WITH ANYPONY, CADANCE? WHY EVEN BOTHER!?" Mario's voice echoed into the vast valley as he began to break down into tear and slumped to his knees.

"I just lost everything I cared about," Mario wept, "All because of a misunderstanding that nopony will ever believe wasn't my fault! What did I do to deserve being treated this way?!" Mario then just wept loudly as his cries of anguish echoing into the night.

The next morning, Twilight had just buried herself under a large stack of pillows and had put on some rather depressing music to listen to. Apparently this was habit of Twilight's whenever she felt like a failure or was extremely depressed. (She had apparently made them alot when Mario told her he wanted to study friendship without her. Mario had found out about them from Spike.) In addition, Twilight had been under her little "fortress" since she had returned to the hotel yesterday in tears. She was feeling very depressed, not to mention heartbroken. Then her little pillow fortress collapsed, showing that Twilight's tears were still flowing as she whimpered and rested her head against a tissue box. She didn't even remember if she had fallen asleep at all last night, but her eyes felt all red and puffy. Her mane and tail were rather frazzled from the heat despite being inside. Twilight just sighed to herself as she slowly sniffled and headed into the bathroom to splash some water on her face. She looked at her frazzled mane, noticing the hibiscus flower was still intact before pulling it out and tossing it into a wastebasket.

"So much for my dream honeymoon!" Twilight muttered before growling angrily, "Why is it every time I try to do organized fun it never works out! NEVER! NEVER! NEVER! NEVER! NEVER!" Of course Twilight didn't get an answer since she was practically yelling at her own reflection. She saw her reflection just giving her a bitter look.

"What?" Twilight demanded sternly as her own reflection shook her head at her.

"You are so clueless!" her reflection told her.

"Excuse me?" Twilight yelled, "He started it. Kissing another mare when he claims he married to me!" Her reflection just glared.

"Don't give me that look!" said Twilight, "he blew it! End of story!" He reflection just shook her head at her, Twilight was furious.

"Don't you shake your head at me young lady!" Twilight yelled like a mother would scold a child, "I don't like you anymore!" Twilight then punched the mirror with her fore-hoof.

"Owwwwwww..." Twilight groaned as she looked at her now throbbing hoof and felt tears in her eyes. Once she had managed to get the throbbing in her fore-hoof to stop, she left the bathroom and considered returning to her little fortress, but she didn't feel like trying to rebuild it again. Twilight just looked around the living room. It felt much more spacious now since she was all alone now. Twilight felt very lonely but then snorted.

"Just wait until I tell Shining Armor about this," Twilight said bitterly to herself, "He'll deal with Mario." But once the words left her mouth, she felt a large pain in her heart. Obviously, thinking about revenge wasn't going to make her feel better. Now all she had was a headache.

"I guess a little fresh air will help me clear my head," Twilight told herself as she walked out onto the balcony. She decided to do a few leg and wing stretches since had been sitting for most of yesterday under her pillow fortress, which had left her body feeling stiff and sore. She also felt rather drained from being upset and from all the crying as well. Twilight thought about getting something to eat when she noticed the tall tree nearby with its branched filled with hibiscus flowers of various colors. Twilight then remembered how Mario had flown up the past two days to pick one especially for her and placed it gently in her mane. Twilight felt her eyes water again.

"Oh Mario, why'd you do this to me!" Twilight wailed as she knelt to the floor and wept. But she didn't cry for long when she heard something rustling nearby.

"Who's there?" Twilight demanded as she stood up. The last thing she needed was some random pony spying on her and making what happened a public event. This was assuming Sakura and Anemone hadn't told anypony what had happened. She almost considered they might have been used to fuel some negativity about herself and Mario when her train of thought was interrupted.

"Hello, Princess," said a very dreary voice. Twilight looked as the other side of the balcony where another very large tree was located. There sitting on top of a high branch was Sakura. Twilight blinked and then glared sternly at her.

"Oh great, what are you doing here?" Twilight snapped, "here to gloat how you stole my husband away from me?" Twilight immediately regretted her words when she saw how depressed Sakura looked.

"Sakura..." Twilight tried to speak.

"Please, don't be mad at Mario!" Sakura pleaded as she hovered over the purple pony, "It was all my fault. I'm the one who kissed him, In fact, I never even got his lips! He sucked them inside his mouth!" Twilight just looked surprised, but she also felt very guilty too. However, Sakura wasn't in the clear yet.

"Why don't you come inside and we can talk?" Twilight offered. Sakura just nodded in reply as she landed on the balcony and followed the purple pony inside. Twilight offered the cherry Pegasus a seat on a large plushy sofa that had a low coffee table on it. Sakura took a seat as Twilight sat beside her.

"Now tell me, Sakura," Twilight asked in a gentle, but firm tone, "Why did you do that?" Sakura sniffled a bit as she looked at Twilight sadly.

"Because I was jealous," said Sakura slowly, "Jealous because your pretty and I'm not." Twilight was stunned. The jealousy she expected, but not the reason for it.

"You don't think you're pretty?" Twilight asked. Sakura just looked at her sadly.

"Why?" Twilight asked, "I mean you seem like the type of mare Mario would find attractive."

"Yeah, he was so attractive to me," Sakura retorted as tears streamed down her face, "He pulled me aside to tell me I was being an annoying little pest."

"Well, no offense, but...you were kind of getting in his face," said Twilight, trying to be gentle, "But that doesn't mean you're not pretty."

"It felt that way for me," said Sakura, "You see, Princess..."

"Just called me Twilight, please," the purple pony replied, "I did say we were friends."

"Please stop lying to me!" Sakura bellowed, "I know you don't like me and I know you hate me because of what I did! How can you call me your friend after all this?" Twilight took a deep breath before answering.

"Cause I want to hear your side of the story," Twilight replied, "and you've already made it clear that you weren't trying to hurt me. You obviously meant no harm." Sakura blinked before she recomposed herself.

"That is true...Twilight..." said Sakura slowly, "When I was a little filly, I had this crush on a colt. So...the day came when I finally had the courage to confess my feelings. He laughed at me and said I was the ugliest filly he ever saw. Since then, no colt or stallion pays any attention to me. They either ignored me or bullied me by calling me mean names."

"Did you have any braces, glasses, or something where a colt would be shallow enough to say that?" Twilight asked, "If I can ask?"

"No," Sakura remarked, "I didn't look that much different than how I look now. I just stopped bothering to look at myself in the mirror." Sakura then removed her barrette and held it with her fore-hoof.

"My daddy gave me this when I was really depressed," Sakura told Twilight, "He always called me his little cheery blossom, or sakura blossom. I always wear it to remind myself that I am pretty, but...some days I...just don't..." Sakura began to cry as Twilight placed a fore-hoof on the cherry Pegasus's back.

"So what's this have to do with my husband?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Well, I've heard how amazing he was through the newspapers and other radio reports," Sakura explained, "being the Element of Love, a hero of Equestria, and now a prince. You have to admit he looks really handsome with wings." Twilight chuckled.

"He was already handsome without 'em," Twilight remarked, "But go on..."

"Well, I just wanted to see if he would find me pretty," said Sakura, "and when I saw you guys at the cafe. I wanted to jump at the chance at getting to know him, but...I got too excited for my own good. Plus I just really, really wanted him to like me. If I could be told by an Alicorn Prince that I was pretty...and likable...then maybe...maybe I really am pretty."

"And the kiss?" Twilight asked.

"I have a bad habit of acting without thinking things through," said Sakura, "This wouldn't be the first time I've gotten into trouble over it. But...I never thought I would destroy a marriage because of it..." Twilight just sighed.

"First, let's deal with your problem," said Twilight, "You don't need to get the approval of any stallion to feel pretty, Sakura. My best friend Rarity is not just the Element of Generosity, but also has a special talent in helping ponies feel beautiful. She taught me that true beauty comes from within, that being confident in yourself is the key to being beautiful."

"You mean pretty?" Sakura corrected.

"No," said Twilight, "I mean feeling beautiful. It's comes from confidence and believing in yourself, Sakura."

"But...I don't have confidence in myself," Sakura said sadly.

"You should," Twilight replied, "You and your sister have created such a beautiful garden that you could be proud of."

"True," said Sakura, "I know everything about cherry blossoms, from how they grow and taking care of the trees, their history and cultural value, as well as crafting different kinds of flower accessories."

"You make flower accessories?" Twilight replied, clearly impressed.

"Yeah," said Sakura, "Crowns, hoof bracelets, ribbons, and even braiding flowers into pony's manes and tails. Nothing a stallion would be interested in."

"Oh, I'm sure you'll find a stallion who would," said Twilight, "The key is to start as friends and let the friendship grow. That's how Mario and I started. We were friends, then best friends, then we dated, and then one day...I realized that I was falling in love with him."

"Was it scary to confess?" Sakura asked.

"Yes, but it was more than worth it," said Twilight, "because we had let our feelings grow so I knew he returned them. My fear was just hoping it would last."

"I can understand that," said Sakura, "Whoever my special somepony is, I just hope that it will be forever. I hope you and Mario can work things out." Twilight gave her a gentle smile.

"I'm sure we can," said Twilight, "Mario might get a little heated in the horn at times, but he never stays angry for long." Sakura began to cry.

"Hey, don't worry," said Twilight gently, "I'm sure we can patch things up."

"I hope so," Sakura sobbed, "because I saw him walking around town yesterday. He was venting about how he was tired of trying to spread love by being helpful and caring. He was passing by several ponies who could have used his help and he didn't bother to help them at all. He thinks they won't appreciate his efforts and that they'll just complain about him."

"Oh..." Twilight groaned, "That's not your fault. It's mine! I should've just let him explain what had happened instead of just assuming the worst of him. Plus it probably didn't help that some ponies had to nerve to public put him down and I bet that radio show has something to do with it! Now he's convincing himself that being the Element of Love isn't worthwhile. How foolish I've been acting, I kept saying that I needed him when he clearly needs me more! I gotta find him!"

"Is there anything I can do to help?" Sakura asked sniffling and blew her nose. Twilight pondered for a moment until there was a loud knock on the door. Twilight then headed to the door and opened it to see the hotel manager standing outside.

"Princess..." said the manager, who was a stallion by the name of Tropical Skies.

"Yes, is there something wrong?" Twilight asked professionally as Sakura slowly approached beside her.

"There is a big fire down at the radio station," Tropical Skies replied, "And there was word that Prince Mario had entered the building to save those still trapped inside." Twilight's felt her eyes shrink as her heart skipped a beat. Sakura gasped and put a fore-hoof over her mouth.

Several minutes before

Mario was walking about a small open market area just examining and checking out all the native fruits that were available. Mario was taken by surprise to see a vender selling some apples.

"I didn't know Applejack had any relatives that lived in this island," Mario remarked, "Then again, they do sell pine apples here. Heh-heh...Ugh, that was worst pun I ever thought of. So glad Twilight wasn't around to hear that. Twilight..." Mario felt his eyes water as he quickly wiped them and continued to look around.

"Keep it together, Mario," he told himself, "you just gotta get used to only looking out for yourself now. You won't get hurt as much anymore." Mario took a few steps forward before just sitting near a lamppost.

"Then...why do I feel so empty inside?" Mario asked himself, but before he could think of an answer.

BOOM!

The ground rumbled as several ponies came running by screaming and shouting in terror.

"What...what's going on?" Mario asked as a few ponies came running past him but didn't bother to answer. It was then he noticed Anemone frantically looking around the market and getting cut off by other ponies running amok. Mario ran up to her.

"Anemone, what's going on?" Mario asked.

"There was some sort of explosion at the radio station," Anemone explained as she pointed a fore-leg to a rather tall building just down the market street that was covered completely in flames, "and it caused a huge fire that's spreading really fast!"

"Is Sakura part of the weather team?" Mario asked as he watched the burning building with worry. He then noticed several town Pegasi collecting various rain clouds to try and douse the fire.

"Yeah, but I don't know where she is," said Anemone, "I haven't seen her since yesterday. She feels really bad for what happened." Mario just sighed.

"Well, she can't undo the damage she..." Mario then stopped his comment and noticed a Pegasus giving orders to the others. He figured this Pegasi was charge of the weather team and headed toward him.

"Wait for me!" Anemone called out as she tried to follow Mario. Once he was in range, Mario flew up to the Pegasus stallion.

"Are you in charge?" Mario asked. The Pegasus stallion gave him a stern look before blinking once he saw who was speaking to him.

"Prince Mario," He replied, "It is an honor!" Mario smiled, grateful to get some respect for his title.

"Never mind the formalities," said Mario, "Are you charge of the weather patrol?"

"Yes, your highness," the Pegasus replied, "the name is Twinsy Tropics."

"Have you made sure that everypony inside has been evacuated safely, Twinsy?" Mario asked.

"I have some Pegasi surveying the building as we..."

"Captain!" another Pegasus stallion shouted, "We managed to get all but four ponies out of the building. The radio hosts are barricaded inside one of the rooms. None of us are able to get them out!" Mario gasped silently.

"What?!" Twinsy exclaimed, "We need to get them out as soon as possible! The building is getting more unstable by the second!" Mario just looked at the burning building. It was then a glimmer of rainbow flashed across his eyes. Then he felt something inside. Something telling him not to turn away and take action. Before anypony could react, Mario narrowed his eyes and headed directly for the building.

"Your highness!" Twinsy shouted as Mario flew through an open window on the ground floor and headed inside.

Back at the present

A good fifteen minutes had passed from the time Mario had entered the building when Twilight and Sakura arrived. Anemone was just standing next to Twinsy with her own worried look on her face. By now the fire was just barely being contained by the other Pegasi as Sakura went to help them out. Twilight landed near the clearly worried Twinsy.

"Excuse me," said Twilight in panic.

"Princess Twilight!" he exclaimed.

"Have you seen my husband? Where's my husband?" Twilight demanded frantically.

"He went inside to rescue the radio hosts since they were still trapped inside," Twinsy replied, "But that was fifteen minutes ago." Twilight felt her eyes began to water as she sat down. Her body was trembling with worry.

Please be okay, Mario, please come out! Twilight pleaded in her mind. Anemone offered Twilight a hug to help her calm down. While Twilight didn't feel any better getting a hug, she was still grateful for the gesture. Suddenly...

CRASH!

The entire building came tumbling down!

Twilight quickly used a magic shield to protect anypony from the huge dust cloud before releasing it so it could spread away from the crowd and not at towards them. Twilight felt her heart sink as the dust cloud surrounded the building.

"MARIO!" Twilight cried out in anguish before covering her face with her fore-hooves.

"Your highness! Look!" Twinsy shouted as a shadow came out of the smoke cloud. There coming out of the smoke was Mario, his coat and tail charred from all the fire and smoke, using a smaller barrier to keep the dust away. With him were the four radio hosts, all wearing tattered and destroyed suits as they were piled onto Mario's back. Those watching nearby were in deep shock as Mario cleared the dust cloud and removed his barrier. It was then a small filly put her fore-hooves together and clapped. Then some of the other young ponies began to clap or they would stomp on their hooves. This set up a chain reactions as one by one, the faces of the pony bystanders went from shocked to happy as they, too, began to applaud for him. Mario had just barely allowed the last of the radio hosts to climb off his back when he looked up to see all the ponies applauding him. Mario was rather stunned as the applause turned into cheers. Mario soon gave them a smile as Twilight threw her fore-legs around his neck and gave him a kiss despite how dirty he looked.

"I'm so sorry, honey," Twilight said softly, "I was so wrong to think that you would hurt me or kiss another girl. I guess I still have a problem trusting you, but it's not because you're not worth trusting. It's because I'm afraid you'll find somepony better than me." Mario just took a slow deep breath and exhaled. Twilight then got on her hind knees and sat up in a kneeling position.

"Please take me back," Twilight begged. Mario just blinked.

"Shouldn't...I be the one doing that?" Mario asked her.

"Why?" Twilight replied, "You didn't do anything wrong! I was the one who betrayed and hurt you! Sakura came to me this morning and explained everything. She even said you sucked her lips inside your mouth to hide them from hers!"

"That was true," Mario replied plainly.

"And I still broke your heart," Twilight continued as she felt her eyes water, "Please don't stop being the Element of Love because of me! I love you! I appreciate you! I think you're very special! And I also know that you are a stallion of honesty and integrity. I was wrong to doubt that. Please forgive me!" Twilight just looked at him sadly. Mario took a step forward and gave her a soft smile.

"I'm sorry too," said Mario, "I didn't handle the situation very well with Sakura and she caught me off guard. Besides, at least you didn't actually give up on yourself."

"I heard about that," said Twilight, "and I don't blame you. With all the heckling and me turning my back on you, I wasn't surprised that you would question if being the Element of Love was worth it."

"Wait, wait, wait! Timeout!" said radio host number one, "are you saying that Mario saved us because he loves us?" The other radio hosts made disgusted faces as Mario huffed before turning to face them.

"I've had alot of time to think over the past day or so," said Mario told them sternly, "and I've come to realize something."

"Like what?" radio host number two asked rather rudely.

"The love I spread to others is the glue that makes the magic of friendship so powerful," Mario explained as the rest of the crowd listened as well, "Love is laughter, kindness, honesty, generosity, loyalty, and magic. It is also empathy, compassion, sympathy, and forgiveness. Most importantly, it is also unconditional and never expects anything in return because sharing that love is its own reward." Mario then turned to his wife and grabbed her fore-hoof as he looked into her eyes.

"For those who have their special somepony, always remember," Mario continued, "no matter how difficult life gets, no matter how hurtful or painful the disputes may be, like friendship, true love is always worth fighting for." Twilight began to smile and shed happy tears as they shared a loving nuzzle. Anemone cooed excitedly as Sakura landed beside her sister and smile. Some of the other ponies smiled while a few even shed tears.

"Oh...bleh!" radio host number three snorted, "I always knew Mario was a sap, but this is just plain stomach cringing!"

"He thinks he's oh so perfect now that he's learned his whittle lesson," radio host number four added.

"Now everything else will be flowers and rainbows," radio host number one remarked as he made noises like he was sick, "His character is so fake! Am I right?" Twilight growled angrily.

"Oh I'll give you fake when I remove those mouths right off your faces!" Twilight warned as she stood before them in a defensive position.

"Oooh, heed a mare scorned, so scary!" radio host number one said mockingly.

"Wonder what farm Princess Celestia found her from?" radio host number two added. Twilight growled angrily at them until Mario put a fore-leg around her.

"It's okay, honey," said Mario calmly, "They're entitled to their opinions after all. I didn't expect to get any gratitude from them for saving their lives. At the end of the day, I did what I felt was right and you using their magic on them isn't worth the effort. I don't need anypony's approval or to feel popular. I've got all the love I could ever need." Twilight settled down as she listened to her husband and nodded in agreement.

"You're right," said Twilight, "You have me, your family, and all our friends who love you very much." Mario smiled as they linked hooves and walked away together. The four radio hosts just rolled their eyes.

"Those two are pathetic, am I right?" radio host number one asked, but only got silence in return. The other radio hosts noticed that all they were getting from the crowd of ponies were glares and looks of disgust.

"Um, you guys," said radio host number two. Radio host number one then noticed the group of angry ponies glaring at them. The four stallions all looked at each other nervously.

"Uh, as my old lion friend from the main land use to say," said radio host number three, "exit, stage left!" Then the four ponies ran off as fast as their hooves could take them when most of the crowd just watched them disappear into the background. Sakura and Anemone chuckled to each other.

"Good luck getting the radio show rebooted!" Sakura shouted.

"Yeah, and if they try, we'll give 'em hard lemon pokes!" Anemone added as she waved her lemon wand with her magic. Sakura just laughed and hugged her little sister happily.

Later that evening, Mario and Twilight were just sitting close to each other just watching a very beautiful sunset. They had also been holding each other for hours and hadn't bothered to let go. It was all they really needed from each other. Just the closeness of having the pony they loved more than anything by their side. They had even shared a good cry together to because they believed even love could be shared through tears of joy and happiness. (At least that's what I always believed.)

"I love you," said Twilight sweetly.

"I love you, too," Mario replied in the same tone, "I'm glad everything is going to be okay between us now."

"Yeah," said Twilight as she began to giggle to herself.

"What's up?" Mario asked her curiously.

"We just had our first fight," Twilight chuckled.

"Yeah, we did," said Mario, "guess what they say is true. Dealing with fights and disagreements only make you appreciate each other more."

"True," said Twilight as she nuzzled the side of his head with her own, "but I prefer if we didn't get into fights, or at least tried to minimize them."

"I agree," said Mario, "but neither of us are perfect." Twilight hummed in agreement.

"Well, the fact that you're not perfect is what I love most about you," Twilight said softly.

"Same here," Mario replied as he kissed her cheek and Twilight returned the gesture.

"Hope we're not interrupting you two," said a voice. Mario and Twilight turned their heads to see Sakura and Anemone standing nearby.

"Just a romantic sunset," Mario replied bluntly when Twilight smacked the back of his head.

"Never mind, my sweetie," said Twilight, "what's up girls?"

"Some of the town's ponies are hosting a luau to apologize to Mario for being so mean to him before," Anemone explained, "They realize that they had been paying so much attention to what those mean radio ponies were saying that they didn't bother to actually get to know Mario. They wanted to say sorry and learn more about you."

"We hope you two will come," said Sakura, "luau's are usually the biggest and best kind of parties held on the islands." Twilight looked at her husband.

"Well, sweetie," said Twilight, "shall we go check it out?" Mario looked at the two girls and then his wife.

"We would never miss a good party," said Mario and then he realized something, "you don't think?"

"Surprise!" said a very familiar voice as a pink pony randomly popped out of the sand.

"We should have known," said Mario with a playful eye roll, "A party like this just wouldn't be a party without my little sister."

"It ain't just her, sugarcube!" said another familiar voice. Mario and Twilight gasped excitedly as Sakura and Anemone moved away to show that Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow had arrived on the beach. Of course Rarity was wearing a sun dress, hat, and glasses. Mario and Twilight wasted no time rushing toward their friends, sharing a group hug, and greeting each other excitedly.

"What are you guys doing here?" Twilight asked happily.

"Rarity offered us all a paid trip to the islands for a few days," said Fluttershy, "We know this was your honeymoon and all..."

"We can keep out of your way if necessary," finished Rainbow, "we just wanted to check this place out!"

"I'm sure you two want to have some quality alone time," Rarity remarked, "but we figured you wouldn't mind if we enjoyed paradise while you did." Mario and Twilight just looked at each other and smiled.

"Are you kidding?" said Mario.

"We would be honored to have our friends join us for the rest of trip," said Twilight and then remembered the two sisters nearby, "Oh! Meet our new friends, Sakura and Anemone. They live here and were going to give us a tour of the island tomorrow. Since we...didn't get to yesterday." The two sisters looked at each other and smiled.

"Sure," the two sisters replied.

"We've met these girls," said Rainbow as she hovered nearby with her fore-hooves crossed, "and we also know that miss cherry blossom over here smooched the prince." Sakura just looked away sadly as Mario looked rather nervous.

"No need to fret, Mario, darling," said Rarity, "We know you didn't do anything wrong."

"We know you would never hurt Twilight, big brother," Fluttershy added as she gave Mario a hug, "Sakura said that she apologized so all is forgiven." Mario knew that Sakura hadn't apologized to him directly, but kept quiet to not ruin the mood.

"True," said Twilight and then turned to the still surprised cherry Pegasus, "We're friends now, right Sakura?" The cherry Pegasus blinked and then nodded.

"And I learned a lesson about being the element of love," said Mario, "how important it is to remember those who love you when ponies don't appreciate the love you share with them." The others hummed impressively. It was then out of nowhere a large yellow heart with gold edging and a crown on it appeared before them.

"What is tarnation is that?" Applejack asked curiously as the others looked at it in awe.

"I don't know," said Mario, "but I'm feeling alot of love magic from it. Plus...I feel it calling to me to take it." Mario then went to jump up and touched the heart.

(Cue "you got a muli-moon!" fanfare...or power heart in this case)

"Ooh! Yes!" Mario said in amazement as the heart's energy made him smile as he floated in the air standing on his hind legs, "Ah-ha-ha!" Mario then twirled in the air and literally danced with the heart, before making it fly high into the air and then he posed beside it.

"WA-HOO-HOO!" Mario cheered as he landed gently on all fours as the heart then deposited itself into his saddle bag, which Mario had picked up from the hotel before they came to the beach.

"Whoa!" said Rainbow, "I've never seen that happen before!"

"I wonder what that thing is and what it can do?" Twilight wondered.

"We can worry about that later!" Pinkie interrupted, "We've got a party to go to!" Pinkie then presented her party cannon and fired it. Instead of regular confetti, this confetti was tropical patterned.

Soon they were all at the party, the mane seven were each wearing their own personal hula leis that Sakura had hoof-crafted herself. All the girls, including Rainbow, had hibiscus flowers in their manes that they had hoof picked from the tree near Twilight and Mario's suite. They just enjoyed chatting with each other as they enjoyed each other's company, the local towns ponies, and plenty of tasty treats. Mario and Twilight were seen chatting with some of the towns ponies and laughing as well. Then it came time for some entertainment. The mane seven enjoyed watching the group of young fillies perform a hula dance for the audience. Fluttershy and Rarity could not stop cooing at how adorable they looked. Then there was a town limbo competition that the group participated in, which Rainbow got her revenge from Twilight and Mario's welcoming party by beating the Prince. As the party died down, a pair of earth ponies began to play a drum and ukulele as they sang songs in the island's native language. It was during one of these performances that Mario approached Sakura.

"Hey," said Mario gently.

"Oh, hi," said Sakura timidly, "enjoying...the luau?"

"Yeah," said Mario, "I'm having a great time." Mario then took a deep breath before continuing, "So...listen..."

"Look, you don't need to apologize," said Sakura, "I did a dumb thing and I'm really, really sorry."

"I forgive you," said Mario, "I wanted to speak to you because Twilight told me why you did that." Sakura bit her lip and looked away.

"You are a beautiful pony," Mario replied. Sakura's eyes nearly popped out.

"You sure you should be saying that to me?" Sakura asked skeptically.

"I tell my friends all the time," Mario explained, "Twilight knows that I mean it in a friendship way and in an honest way. In other words, I wouldn't say that to you if I didn't mean it." Sakura smiled as tears pricked her eyes.

"Thank you," Sakura replied, "So...can we be friends?" Mario just smiled.

"Of course we can," Mario replied as he raised a fore-leg so she could hug him. Sakura was a bit nervous until Mario just pulled the cherry Pegasus in, which Sakura just smiled.

(cue tropical montage)

The next few days were some of the most fun days the mane seven ever had and they had taken a bunch of pictures as well thanks to Mario bringing a camera. The first picture was Rainbow, Mario, Twilight (who rode on Mario's back again) and Fluttershy enjoying the dolphins as they flew above the water. Another picture was the mane seven looking at Sakura's and Anemone's personal garden. There was also another picture of Rarity having Sakura braid her mane and tail with cherry blossoms...as well as Rainbow's...reluctantly. Fluttershy had her picture taken with some of the tropical birds surrounding her as she sat on a nearby tree with Anemone watching her from the ground. Applejack, Rainbow, Mario, Pinkie, and Sakura were then seen at a special dirt area where you could rent out adult pony sized scooters. Despite not having wings to move faster, Pinkie beat everypony in a race! Then another was shown with Rarity sunbathing in a longue chair and tanning mirror with Fluttershy as Applejack and Rainbow tried pony surfing in the background. There was even one where Twilight, Mario, Sakura, Rainbow, Applejack, and Pinkie rode a kayak together with the pink pony using a megaphone. Another picture was also on the beach as Twilight and Mario presented a hoof-crafted sand sculpture of Canterlot that they had made. The next picture was of the mane seven and the two sisters as they tried scuba diving and Fluttershy and Rainbow were swimming next to some sea turtles. Then another picture was of Mario, Twilight, and Rainbow leaning against a wooden balcony as they stood on their hind legs wearing sunglasses, trying to look cool. Then another was of Mario and Twilight having a romantic dinner with the sun-setting in the background, which Twilight wore a dress and Mario had on a stylish tropical shirt on. Then the mane seven and two sisters were seen having a bonfire on the beach roasting marshmallows over the fire. Well...all but Pinkie and Sakura, who were trying to stuff as many marshmallows they could stuff into their mouths. Then another adorable picture of Mario playing the ukulele with Twilight sitting next to him on the beach in the moonlight.

There was more! A picture of Rarity, Twilight, Fluttershy, Sakura, and Anemone enjoying their time at the special outdoor spa. Then another where Rainbow and Mario were having a dance off at the local arcade, Sakura and Pinkie having smoothies, Sakura laughing as a coconut bopped Mario in the head, and then a special picture where the group had stopped by the town bakery and the local stallion, who ran the shop, asked Sakura out on a date. The cherry Pegasus was blushing and Anemone was in shock. Finally the nine ponies as they stood and overlooked the top of a mountain where they could see the town and the vast blue sea in the background.

(end tropical montage)

Mario and Twilight chuckled to each other as they enjoyed the pictures in their newly made scrapbook as they sat together in their hotel room. They had really enjoyed their time at Horse-a-lulu together. Unfortunately, tomorrow morning was when they would be returning back to the main land.

"Sigh, it's too bad our Honeymoon has to come to an end," said Mario sadly.

"Yeah, but we made some fun memories here," said Twilight, "especially with our friends here."

"I agree," said Mario, "It certainly made this trip very memorable." Twilight and Mario then shared a quick kiss with each other when they heard a knock on the door.

"I'll get it," said Mario as he hovered over to the door. Twilight just shook her head at him.

"What?" Mario asked, slightly puzzled.

"You're getting worse then Rainbow," said Twilight with a playful smirk on her face, "You always have to be in the air." Mario rolled his eyes.

"I like flying, so bleh!" Mario retorted, landed on the floor, and he opened the door to see Sakura standing outside.

"Hey there, Sakura," said Mario cheerfully, "what's up?"

"I wanted to thank you and your wife for being such good friends to me and my sister," Sakura replied, "and I wanted to thank you especially for being so kind and understanding despite my little...mess up."

"It's all in the past Sakura," said Mario, "We'll always be friends. That's a promise." Sakura smiled as she removed her cherry blossom barrette clip and put it in Mario's fore-hoof. Mario was surprised.

"Sakura," said Mario in surprise as Twilight appeared from behind him, "You said this barrette clip was special to you. Your father gave it to you." Sakura chuckled.

"I don't need it anymore," said Sakura, "and I can always make a new one. Besides, I know now that I'm beautiful and special. It also helps that I have another date with that cute baker stallion." Mario and Twilight chuckled.

"Please, take my clip, to remember me by," said Sakura, "and know that you two are always welcome here as our ohana, which means family. And family means..."

"...nopony gets left behind or forgotten," Mario and Twilight finished. Sakura then said her final goodbye as Mario and Twilight shut the door. Mario kept looking at the barrette clip in his fore-hoof. It was then he noticed the barrette clip gave of a glimmer of rainbow color and Mario felt some energy pulse from it.

"Interesting," said Mario.

"What's up, honey?" Twilight asked.

"I felt some magic come out of the barrette," said Mario as he set it on the table, "It felt like the same magic I felt form that power heart."

"Power heart?" Twilight asked puzzled.

"Did you...have a better name for that thing I found a few days ago?" Mario asked her sincerely.

"No, Power Heart is a good name for that thing," said Twilight, "I just wonder why they are appearing now all of a sudden?"

"I'm sure we'll find out soon enough," said Mario with a smile. Then he and Twilight went to stargaze from their balcony one last time. The barrette clip gave off another glimmer of rainbow once more as it sat quietly on the low table.

Somewhere in the deep reach of the Everfree Forest, some mysterious object gave off a bright light from the reaches of a dark cave.

Along with it, the beginning roots of some ominous looking vines...

Phew! I normally don't have such a hard time writing intermission chapters, but I had two goals to accomplish here. One was to have Mario have his own "element" challenge and obtain his key. The second was, like the other intermission chapters, prelude what would be happening in season four. I just hope the chapter wasn't too dramatic and I got the lesson across too.

Just for the note, Anemone and Sakura are based off two of my own best friends in real life, but unlike Shenran. They were just one time only ponies. Hope you enjoyed seeing them.

Also the "power hearts" Mario will collect are going to be used for something BIG once I get to the Tirek arc. He'll get one power heart when the rest of the mane seven get their keys. And yes, they will be different colors.

Also, let's make this clear: As cute as it would be to have Mario and Twilight have a royal foal. Unless I get this story beyond season 9, which is said to be the last season, there won't be a baby in the coming chapters.

Speaking of big things, I've got a show for you! We've got the Tree of Harmony Arc, discovering the friendship journal, the Cutie Mark Crusaders will be having a re-match with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, Mario will have to confront his inner fears regarding the Equestria games, more Shenran and Fluttershy moments since you all want to see more of him, and so much more!

Plus I'll finally answer the biggest question on everypony's mind: WHO AND WHERE ARE MARIO'S PARENTS?

Peace Pony Fans!