Chapter 9: Sweet and Elite

Today in Canterlot, Rarity and Chase had just arrived to the royal city on official business. But what Rarity didn't expect was for Princess Celestia to set up some staying arrangement for her. She was still in shock as Princess Celestia opened the door so Rarity could see her suite at the top of one of the towers.

"Here?" Rarity gasped as she and Chase walked inside, "I get to stay here?"

"Twilight Sparkle said you both were coming to Canterlot for a visit," Princess Celestia explained, "and asked if I might accommodate you."

"Thanks, Celestia." Chase said with a smile as Rarity looked around her room with awe.

"Thank you so much, Princess," said Rarity.

"You're very welcome," Princess Celestia replied.

"No, really," said Rarity, "This is so nice of you."

"It's nothing, really," Princess Celestia remarked.

"Oh, but it isn't nothing, it's everything!" said Rarity, feeling overwhelmed, "I just don't know to say but thank you, thank you!" She kissed one of Princess Celestia's hooves.

"Thank you." She kissed her hooves again.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you!" Rarity continued to kiss her hooves as Princess Celestia just looked rather uncomfortable.

"You are very we-"

"Thank you!" Rarity said to her face dramatically.

"Alright, Rarity!" Chase said sternly as Rarity froze in place before she chuckled sheepishly from Chase's glare.

Princess Celestia chuckled in amusement.

"You seem to be keeping the girls in line very well, Chase Young." Princess Celestia commented on her other star pupil with a smile.

"Yeah, it's a talent." Chase said with a smirk. "I was raised by my dad with a tough attitude to keep others in line. But since Grandpa isn't around to keep us company, I still can't help but think that that the Canterlot Elite will never accept me."

"Oh that's just stinking thinking, darling," said Rarity, "I'm sure if they will respect you more once they see what a great jiu jitsu master you've become."

"Indeed you will." Princess Celestia agreed with a smile.

Chase blushed a bit as he looked away from the two. They just chuckled to each other when they heard the sound of somepony struggling behind them. It was the Bags Valet colt trying to carry Rarity's huge load of baggage.

"Your luggage, mademoiselle?" said the Bag Valet, panting heavily and struggling to stand up.

"I'll leave you to get settled," said Princess Celestia as she took her leave.

"Your highness," said Bags Valet as he tried to bow despite all the luggage on his back as Princess Celestia made her exit.

"Enjoy your stay," said Princess Celestia as she left.

"Thank you!" Rarity called out as she ran out of her guest room and watched Celestia descend the staircase. Rarity then returned shortly after to see the Bags Valet was just standing there.

"Where would you like me to put these?" he asked, his voice straining before the pile of luggage toppled down on him.

Chase flinched as the Bags Valet was literally buried alive.

"That's perfect," said Rarity plainly with a smile.

Chase just sighed and got to work helping the Bags Valet out of the luggage so Rarity could unpack.

To answer everyone's question, Chase Young is only here because Rarity begged him to come so he can deal with the elite ponies. Of course, he didn't like the idea, Chase agreed. But only for a warning, if she screws up, she'll get an answer from Chase.

*Main theme*

Once Rarity was unpacked and paid a very generous tip to the Bags Valet for his services, and sore back, Chase had taken Rarity into the heart of Canterlot's shopping district. It was there that various ponies of high class stature were walking down the streets with smug and snooty faces. While Chase had grown up being around these types of ponies, he had always hated that stuck up atmosphere these ponies presented themselves with, especially since he still despised them for not respecting his grandfather when he disappeared. However, Rarity seemed to thrive in it. In fact, being with Rarity seemed to take his mind off the snooty ponies so he could enjoy himself. For the moment, he and Rarity were at a cafe enjoying what seemed to be the equivalent to a latte. Chase just had a simple glass of lemonade. Rarity had on a pink floppy hat with a white band and purple brooch on the was also with them with her own saucer of milk that was served by a fancy waiter. Even Ray was with them on his master's shoulder while nibbling a cookie.

"Opal, Chase, Ray, do you know what I love about Canterlot?" Rarity asked as they all took a sip of their drinks at once.

"What, Rares?" Chase asked as Ray held his cookie in his talons.

"Ahh, everything!" said Rarity, "I may have been born in Ponyville, but I am a Canterlot pony at heart." They all took another sip of their drinks at once, "Now, I know that we are here to pick up some fabrics from the shop, but Twilight was such a dear to get me that suite at the castle, I simply must make her something to express my gratitude. Hmm...Ooh!" Rarity then noticed a few more high class ponies walking by and notices one of the mare wearing a very pretty dress.

"An outfit for her birthday party this weekend! Perfect!" said Rarity.

"Well, while you're at it, I'm just gonna see if I can find a perfect gift for Twilight's birthday. Ever since she opened the door for dating, I really want to give her something that shows just how much I love her. A present I had a hoof in creating just sounds...more genuine. If you don't mind us giving her the outfit together..." Chase said.

"Not at all, darling," said Rarity, "Together, we'll create something absolutely fabulous!" She turned to the two pets, "Don't you just love it here, Opalescence? Ray?"

Opal just drank her milk quietly as Ray just nibbled on his cookie before he gave Rarity a look of bluntness and he shook his head in a reply of no.

"Ray is just in the same state as me." Chase said with agreeing with his companion. "He still dosen't like elite snobs here."

He went back to drink his lemonade when a dark shadow appeared overhead. Chase glanced and inwardly groaned. There before him was a pastel pink pony with a lilac and white mane (very similar to Diamond Tiara's mane) and next to her was a light grey colt with dark grey hair and fancy glasses on his nose.

Out of all the high class ponies I had to run into today, why these two?! Chase groaned to himself.

These two particular ponies, in addition to one other and not including Prince Blueblood, were three of the most influential elite ponies in Canterlot. And they were also the most condescending and snobbish ponies as well. They had made it their mission to try and put Chase down when they heard of his grandfather passing away ever since he was a foal, especially around the other high class ponies. The harsh words and the humiliation he faced before them, even when his family was around, was still fresh on his mind, but he never listened to them. As for their third member, she had moved away after getting married, but had settled down in Ponyville (that's another story). With his back turned from them, he was hoping that they wouldn't recognize him. To his luck, it didn't seem like they did. Rarity just look at them sheepishly, especially since some whipped cream had gotten on her nose when she put her cup down.

"Please excuse our interruption," said the grey colt, "I'm Jet Set, and this is my wife Upper Crust. We saw you from across the cafe and just had to find out..."

"...Where did you get that simply marvelous chapeau?" Upper Crust finished. Rarity just smiled.

"Oh this old thing?" said Rarity in her best impression of a high class tone, "Oh, it's just something I-"

"Rarity! Hey, Rarity!" said a voice from above as she and Chase looked up to find a sand colored pony with a caramel colored mane and tail with buck teeth and a green cap on his head. He was apparently cleaning some windows above them using a harness, but then lost his footing and fell beside Rarity dangling by a rope tied to one of his hind legs, "Whoo! It's me, Hayseed Turnip Truck. We met at the big hoedown in Ponyville last month?"

"Oh yes, of course," said Rarity uneasily, noticing that his shouting had attracted unwanted attention to their table, "...how are you?"

"Good! Real good!" said Hayseed Turnip Truck before his rope snapped and he crashed to the ground.

"Hmm..." Jet Set and Upper Crust hummed disapprovingly.

"Oh...brilliant..." Chase muttered, he knew what their looks meant and he didn't like it at all.

"You're from...Ponyville?" Jet Set asked Rarity.

"Well, yeah," Rarity answered, "yes, but-"

"She sure is!" Hayseed Turnip Truck answered for her, even shaking and rubbing Rarity's hat, "She's a real big-time fancy pants dress maker there! Probably made that purty thing she's got on her head! And over there is her friend, Chase Young!"

Chase groaned to himself.

Big mouth Chase said to himself as he felt somepony use their magic to let them see him.

"It is Chase Young!" said Jet Set, "We've been wondering what happened to you."

"I'll bet," Chase remarked bitterly.

"So he's apparently moved to Ponyville," Upper Crust added, "I had wondered how long it would take before the Princess shipped her prized pupil off to a place where he belonged. He never belonged in our ranks. You still will never be like your grandfather, Darius Hisomi."

Chase growled angrily as Ray glared at them for insulting his master.

"Once a ruffian, always a ruffian," Jet Set added before the two laughed,

"Oh please," Chase retorted, "You wouldn't know high quality fashion if it smacked you in the flank! You both are just as pathetic as Blueblood." Jet Set and Upper Crust were taken aback.

"How rude!" said Jet Set snootily.

"That phoenix has more manners than you," Upper Crust added, "which isn't saying much."

Ray continued to glare at them with his master.

"Whatever, why don't you two just make yourselves useful and go bother somepony else for a while." Chase said sternly.

"Hmph!" Jet Set and Upper Crust said together before snubbing both Chase and Rarity as they walked away.

Hayseed Turnip Truck just waved them goodbye.

"Well, they seemed real nice," he remarked in a ditzy and clueless manner. Poor Rarity was feeling tears in her eyes and her lips quivering.

Chase had enough of his clueless behavior.

"They are, if you had the brain of an avocado!" Chase said as he shouted in Hayseed's face, making him glare and tried to get back at him, but only for Chase to smack him in the face before walking away.

Hayseed glared at him with fire in his eyes before heading on his way. Chase then walked over the distressed unicorn and placed a fore-hoof on her cheek.

"Rarity, please," said Chase gently, "Don't let them get to you. It's not worth it...they're..."

"Only some of the top elite ponies in Canterlot," Rarity whimpered, "Chase, can we just go back to my suite...please?" Chase sighed before he gave Rarity a gentle hug.

"I'll go pay our check," said Chase before he pulled away and headed inside.

(Scene changes)

Rarity just gave a disappointed sigh. She was still feeling rather blue as they arrived back at her suite and she used her magic to close the door, leaving the room rather dark. Chase was busy practicing his katas.

"Rarity, don't let those two get you down," Chase told her again as he practiced his jiu jitsu moves, "They make it their mission to put ponies down who they think are inferior to them. They just love pointing out your flaws, your past, and even your friends just to make you look bad. You even said to yourself that you and I were just as good as any other high class ponies. I've already made it my duty to not interact with them as my family did the same since they tried to torment Grandpa about his disappearance."

Rarity's face then turned into one of determination.

"You're right, Chase." said Rarity as she tossed her hat onto the bed where Ray was grooming himself and Opal was just sitting on the bed sheets and put her glasses on, ""Looked a little country", "Not something you can get in Canterlot". I'll show you something worth of Canterlot!"

"Now that's the best friend I know and I love," said Chase with a proud smile.

(Scene changes)

A couple of hours later, Chase and Rarity were rushing down the streets of Canterlot using their magic to carry multiple bags of materials. Rarity was also carrying Opal in a pet carrier saddle bag and Ray was flying beside Chase.

"Rarity, you have to take it easy." Chase said as they paced down the street rather quickly. "Sometimes you're more picky than ever with shopping like this."

"I can't help it and we have to get started right away," said Rarity, "This new design is very ambitious, and I've already written to Twilight to let her know she'll have something beyond fabulous to wear to her party."

Chase gasped.

"You told her about the dress?" said Chase, "I thought it was a surprise!"

"It is darling," said Rarity, "I didn't say you were going to-"

"Look out!" Chase called out, but it was too late.

Rarity crashed into somepony in front of her and dropping all the bags she had been carrying. One of the bags even landed on the head of the colt she had crashed into. Rarity rubbed her head woozily as the mare, named Fleur Dis Lee, standing next to him, pulled off the bag from his head and Chase gasped.

"Uh oh." Chase said as Ray landed gracefully on his master's back.

This was one colt he also knew very well. He had white fur with a baby blue mane, tail, and hooves. His face also donned a mini mustache and a monocle on his left eye. Despite the mishap, he still had a smile on his face and Rarity gasped once she recognized him as well.

"Fancy Pants!" she exclaimed.

"I say, that's one way to make an introduction," said Fancy Pants as he rose to his feet and dusted himself off, Fleur Dis Lee offered him some assistance. He then noticed the colt standing next to the marshmallow pony.

"Why… Chase?" He said surprised, "Is that you, my boy?"

Chase smiled and Rarity gasped once more.

"You...you...you know Fancy pants and never told me?" Rarity exclaimed as Chase walked up to the elite colt.

"One doesn't go bragging about their upper class connections," Chase replied.

"Indeed," said Fancy Pants, "I've known Chase since he was foal and he is quite a well-achieved pony. I was there when he was doing one of his jiu jitsu skills on one of his dragon spirit tests. He seems to be taking all of his jiu jitsu moves from his grandfather."

Chase smiled.

"Yeah, but I still don't appreciate the fact all of these ponies tried to tear me down when Grandpa disappeared." Chase said with a sad look on his face. "I just wish he was still here to help me."

"My dear boy, from what I can see, you've learned to deal with these harsh critics of your grandfather passing on." Fancy Pants said. "And it appears you're still making something of yourself. Nothing to be ashamed of from what I can see. Your grandfather would be proud of you for the stallion you've become. And I can see you've taken his wisdom quite well too."

Chase smiled. Fancy Pants was one of very few elite ponies who thought well of him. He just wished Fancy Pants had been around when Jet Set and Upper Crust had been insulting him earlier that day.

"So what brings you here today?" Fancy Pants asked before looking slightly indignant to the marshmallow pony, "You seemed to be quite in a hurry."

"Oh, goodness, I'm so sorry," said Rarity before Chase could answer, "I didn't see you there. I've just got so many bags and I was trying to get back to my suite at the castle and-" The instant Rarity mentioned staying at Princess Celestia's castle, both Fancy Pants and Fleur Dis Lee looked at her in shock.

"You're staying at the castle?" said Fancy Pants.

"Wh-The Princess invited me to stay in one of the suites," said Rarity, inwardly she was grateful that it had been Twilight who helped and not Chase.

"You know the Princess?" said Fancy Pants, surprised.

"She's also one of my best friends," Chase added.

"Hmm, a pony with expensive tastes, I see," said Fleur Dis Lee as she used her magic to hand Rarity one of her bags, "Chase certainly has fine taste when it comes to mares."

Chase blushed as Rarity giggled at his expense.

"Chase is quite charming, but as for my bags," Rarity explained with a pant, "it's for an ensemble I'm making for a friend. Her birthday is in a few days. Again, I am really sorry I bumped into you. Come on, Chase."

Rarity began to walk away.

"I'm not!" said Fancy Pants, stopping Rarity in her tracks and before Chase could follow. Plus Fleur Dis Lee was also leaning her fore-hooves against his backside and looking up at the sky, "Heheh, you are obviously somepony worth bumping into! And you are best friends with Chase! I have a VIP box reserved for the Wonderbolt Derby this afternoon. Would you and Chase be so kind as to join me and a few of my companions there?"

"Me?" said Rarity as she used her magic to put a stunned Opal into one of the shopping bags instead of her pet carrier.

"Us?" said Chase as Ray squawked in surprise.

"But of course, my dear," Fancy Pants answered to Rarity and then looked at Chase, "and we can have some time to catch up, my boy."

Chase just looked at Rarity, unsure of what to answer.

Well, I'm, uh, ah-, no-, sure," said Rarity, stuttering a bit.

"We'd love to see you there, uh...?" Fancy Pants realized that he had never asked what her name was.

"Rarity," the marshmallow pony answered.

"Rarity," said Fancy Pants, "Looking forward to seeing you both there."

He then walked away, Fleur Dis Lee just posed for Fancy Pants, but once she found he hadn't noticed she quickly pranced after him. Rarity just smiled excitedly while Chase and Ray looked each other rather worried.

(Scene changes)

It wasn't much longer before they returned to her guest suite.

"Are you sure we have the time for the derby, Rarity?" Chase asked with concern, "I mean, I'd really like to catch up with Fancy Pants, but I still hate almost all of the elite ponies here. He was very kind to me growing up, but...I don't want Twilight's dress to suffer for it."

Rarity hummed as she paced back and forth. Chase did bring up a good point.

"Pro: Seeing the Derby from a VIP box is a once-in-lifetime opportunity," said Rarity, "Con: As Chase mentioned, going to the Derby cuts into the amount of time we have to finish Twilight's outfit. Pro: Fancy Pants is the most important party in Canterlot. His stamp of approval could mean big things for me, er...us, here..."

She then looks at their dress sketch and the empty mannequin. She then imagined herself in a fancy hat with Fancy Pants at the high class event.

"True..." said Chase, trying to see both sides of the matter.

"...Con: Twilight's party might not be as sophisticated as the Derby, but that doesn't mean I should put all my energy into creating her birthday ensemble," Rarity continued as she looked at her pulpit again.

"Another good point," said Chase, "Putting all your time into the dress I mean."

"Our Ponyville friends will appreciate my hard word more than anypony," said Rarity, "I'd hate to let them down and I know Chase wouldn't want to do that either."

"Thank you for considering my feelings too," said Chase, "I trust your judgment so...what do you want to do? Do you think we can attend the Derby and still do a fabulous job without letting our friends down?"

Rarity glared at her mannequin for a moment.

"Yes and we won't," Rarity answered as she headed into a closet and put on a pink hat with frilly style feathers dangling from it, "Opal, Ray, Chase and I are going to the Wonderbolts Derby as a guest of Fancy Pants!"

"Alright!" said Chase as Rarity giggled excitedly as the two pets just glared and rolled their eyes at them before looking at the sketch on the pulpit.

(Scene changes)

With that said, the two ponies headed towards the Wonderbolt Derby Racetrack, which was simply a few stands surrounding a cliff edge. The track itself was marked with a set of two oval-like shaped clouds that were connected to each other. Hundreds of ponies were already sitting on the stands and the majority of them were wearing a hat on their head at the very minimum. The walking stairs were so narrow that Rarity and Chase both had to push their way through to the top.

"Pardon me," said Rarity politely with Chase right behind her, "'Scuse me, 'scuse me!"

Soon they reached the top of the stairs. There sitting on the topmost set of seats were Jet Set and Upper Crust. They gave the two ponies glares and snubbed them, but Chase and Rarity didn't take notice as they made their way toward another set of stairs that was roped off and had a single pony standing guard. Rarity just smiled cutely and fluttered her eye lashes at him.

"'Scuse me, my good sir," said Chase, trying to sound proper, "Can you please let Mr. Fancy Pants know that Mr. Chase and Miss Rarity are here?"

The guard said nothing and refused to move. Fortunately, the elite pony had taken that moment to come down the stairs.

"Rarity, Chase, jolly good to see you!" said Fancy Pants as the guard opened the rope so they could enter, "So glad you could make it!"

Jet Set and Upper Crust were left speechless. As Rarity and Chase, made their way to the top, they found a small group of ponies chattering with one another. Once they saw Fancy Pants, they walked over to him and continued their conversations with him. Rarity and Chase had to step aside to avoid getting trampled.

"Everypony," Fancy Pants announced, "This is Rarity. She is staying at Canterlot Castle. And many of you remember my dear friend, Chase Young."

The other ponies gasped and looked at both ponies blankly, making Chaseand Rarity smile nervously. It didn't help that they began to mumble and chatter with each other in confusion.

"Typical reaction," Chase muttered quietly to Rarity.

"Wait, it is Chase Young!" One of the young female ponies said with excitement. "Darius Hisomi's grandson!"

All of the girls there chattered in excitement as some of the fillies sighed with lovesickness as hearts appeared around their heads. Chase looked at them for a moment before he recomposed himself to being friendly. Rarity giggled at this.

"Fillies and Gentlecolts, welcome to the Wonderbolt Derby!" said the announcer as the six Wonderbolts joining the race began to hover at the startling line, "The competitors are taking their places at the starting line, and the race will begin momentarily!"

"I'll be rooting for Rapidfire, of course," said Fancy Pants, "He's sure to take home the Grand Prize."

The other ponies nodded and mumbled in agreement.

"I don't think he has a chance against Fleetfoot," Rarity remarked, making the ponies all look at her as Fancy Pants' guests gasped. Rarity just smiled nervously.

"I study each Wonderbolt flyer in terms of their top speed, acceleration, size, and stamina," Chase explained on Rarity's defense, "Rapidfire might have good strengths where it counts, but Fleetfoot is very good at finding a good racing line that helps her maintain her speed."

The others said nothing as the Derby trumpet was blown. Everypony headed toward the railing to watch as other ponies began to cheer. With the blow of the whistle, the Wonderbolts were off. Rarity and Chase watched excitedly as the Pegasi raced around the track. Just as they had predicted, Fleetfoot crossed the finish line first.

"And it's Fleetfoot by a nose," said the announcer and Chase and Rarity cheered and all but Fancy Pants were left stunned.

"Bravo, Rarity and Chase!" said Fancy Pants as he walked over to the two ponies, "I say, how did you know Fleetfoot would be victorious?"

"Our friend Rainbow Dash talks about her all the time," Rarity explained before Chase could answer, "She says what Fleetfoot lacks in size, she makes up for in speed."

"And who is this "Rainbow Dash"?" One of Fancy Pants' friends named Silver Frames asked.

"Yes, Rarity," said Chase with a discreet tone of sarcasm, "Please tell them all about Rainbow Dash."

"Uh..." Rarity stuttered and gulped, "Why...she's...she's the...the Wonderbolts' trainer, of course."

Chase's eyes nearly popped out as he looked at the marshmallow pony. However, Fancy Pants believed her and was most impressed.

"Staying at Canterlot Castle, and she knows the Pegasus training the Wonderbolts," said Fancy Pants, "I told you these two were important ponies." The ponies began to chattering around Rarity and Chase.

"You could have just said that I know Spitfire and Fleetfoot," Chase muttered under his breath, "You know I hate lying." Rarity just nudged him firmly.

"Just shush and go with it, darling," said Rarity replied in the same tone, "We are now important ponies."

"Not us, you." Chase said sternly, making Rarity flinch a bit before she laughed nervously.

"Three cheers for Rarity and Chase," said Fancy Pants, "my new favorite party guests!"

"Hip hip, hooray! Hip hip, hooray! Hip hip, hooray!" the other ponies cheered. Jet Set and Upper Crust, who had heard everything, just looked even more stunned than ever. Chase just didn't like this as Rarity gave them a wink.

I can't let Rarity do this. Chase thought to himself. If she keeps on doing this, this is gonna end bad.

(Scene changes)

Later on, Rarity and Chase were walking down one of the streets of Canterlot with three of Fancy Pants inner ponies chatting with them.

"...And then I said, "Puh-lease, that isn't a hat, darling, that's a natural distaste that somehow landed on top of your head"!" said Rarity and they all laughed.

Chase just rolled his eyes a bit since he didn't find the joke that funny. He was clearly not enjoying some of this, since he still hated elite ponies.

"Oh you are a delight, Rarity, an absolute delight," said Silver Frames, "You simply must attend my art gallery opening this evening." She then gave a haughty laugh.

"Oh, I'd love to," Rarity said uneasily, "but I-"

"And let's not forget my charity auction tomorrow morning," Golden Gavel added as he got into both Rarity and Chase's faces.

"Well, that sounds wonderful," said Rarity.

"But we happen to be-" Chase tried to explain for Rarity but then they got cut off again.

"And of course there's a seat for you at my dinner party tomorrow night," said Swan Song.

"Only one?" Chase muttered to himself.

"I'm flattered really," said Rarity, "It's just I have a project I really need to get started on, and-"

"Oh, but Rarity!" Silver Frames protested, "I may as well close down the whole gallery if you can't attend!"

"Good thing I'm not going." Chase muttered to himself again.

"My auction is for charity, dear," Golden Gavel added, "For charity..."

"And my dinner party will be a disaster if you don't come," said Swan Song.

Chase was getting annoyed that Rarity is being praised since she does not know what she is doing. It is a good thing Chase doesn't interact with them at all.

"...of course I'll be there," said Rarity as Chase face-hoofed himself.

"Wonderful!" said Silver Frames.

"On, thank goodness!" added Golden Gavel.

"Disaster averted!" Swan Song added. Rarity just smiled, but deep down she was panicking.

(Scene changes)

It wasn't long before they had returned to their guest room and Chase was feeling rather annoyed.

"Why'd you do that?!" he asked Rarity, "You need to get Twilight's dress ready for her birthday and I wanted this dress to be absolutely perfect for her! You can't keep attending all these high class events! We already got accepted by Fancy Pants as important ponies, no need to show ourselves off!"

"Now don't you worry about a thing, Chase," said Rarity, "Remember that I am very good with time management. We will be able attend the events and have plenty of time for Twilight's ensemble."

"Fine, just don't come crying to me when this blows up in your face." Chase said, annoyed.

"Looks like we'll be spending a few more days here, Opalescence and Ray," said Rarity as she placed a pink ribbon along the mannequin, "Turns out meeting Fancy Pants like that was the best thing that's ever happened to me. Of course, finishing Twilight's dress in time for her birthday party is still my top priority."

"Good," said Chase.

"But I can't possibly disappoint the Canterlot elite by rejecting their invitations now, can I?" Rarity asked as she looked through some jewelry to wear for the evening.

Chase rolled his eyes.

"Ughh, this is not going well for me." Chase muttered to himself.

Rarity tossed the tiara into the air. As it landed on her head, some music began to play.

[Rarity - She posed as she sang. Then sparkles surrounded Rarity before she brushed her eyebrows, then her mane and tail and added some hairspray, a little make up. She then rubbed Opal's head, making the cat glare at her.]

I'll be the toast of the town, the girl on the go

I'm the type of every pony, every pony should know

I'll be the one to watch, the girl in the flow

I'm the type of pony every pony, every pony should know

Chase and Ray just ignored her as they looked at each other unamused.

[Rarity - One can see a multi-view of Rarity's outfit for the art gallery, showing her wearing a black turtleneck, black shoes, and a magenta beret on her head. She and Chase stood at the art gallery as several high class ponies discuss a particular artwork. Rarity just listened to them talk before giving her nod of approval and the others nodded with her. Silver Frames was relieved as they continued on their way. Chase was getting more annoyed with Rarity since all she could think about was fashion. He warned her not to follow fashion all of the time and follow her heart. Personally, it seems as though she ignored him. Then at Golden Gavels charity auction, the auctioneer pony banged his gavel as he offered a high end vase for bidding. Chase just stayed out of it. Then Rarity, wearing a magenta and pink gem encrusted dress with a headset, raised her fore-hoof and the other ponies just gasped and soon followed her lead, shocking the auctioneer. Chase just pouted indignantly.]

Becoming as popular as popular can be

Making my mark, making my mark in high society

I'm the belle of the ball, the star of the show, yeah

I'm the type of pony every pony, every pony should know

[Rarity - At the fancy dinner party, Rarity was wearing a blue and yellow party dress with yellow shoes and hair in an updo. Chase was not with her and just went to get a daffodil and daisy sandwich on sour dough. As she continued to sang, she noticed two waiter ponies placing two different hors d'oeuvres on the table. The others waited patiently for Rarity to make the first choice.]

See how they hang on every word that I speak

My approving glance is what they all seek

I'm the creme de la creme, not just another Jane Doe

I'm the type of pony every pony should know

[Rarity - a brief view of the towers of Canterlot were seen before Rarity was seen wearing her gala dress as she attended an opera with another pony. Chase just stayed out of it with a bitter look as he sat on a chair as he was more agitated and annoyed more than ever. Rarity seemed to be ignoring him more and more. She was then wearing a white and blue stripped dress as she enjoyed Fancy Pants' Flying Yacht. Chase just looked out into the distance without a word. Then as two rows of high society ponies stood before a carpet, Rarity marched before them in a yellow frilly dress with two mares next to her wearing outfits that were very similar to hers. Chase never took part of it since he was still more mad at Rarity than ever. He just snorted and walked away. Then Rarity was seen christening the launch of an airship as the other ponies cheered for her. Rarity smiled as the airship flew high into the sky. Unlike, the other occasions, Chase was no longer with her.]

At home, at the opera, on a fancy yacht

Becoming the talk, the talk of all of Canterlot

I'm the creme de la creme, not just another Jane Doe

I'm the type of pony every pony, every pony should know

[Rarity - She returned back to her suite, tired and her mane rather messy. She had worn a dark blue dress to another event. As she sang with a tired voice, Opal was sitting on the pulpit and pointing a paw at the dress sketch but Rarity ignored her. Rarity then put on a pastel yellow fabric on the mannequin so it now resembled a dress with a pink necktie. Rarity tried to figure out some blue and yellow fabric for a neckline, but then just dropped it as the view showed her entire room.]

Because I'm the type of pony

Yes, I'm the type of pony

Yes, I'm the type of pony every pony should know

Rarity just sat quietly in the dark when she noticed a sheet of paper attached to her bed post. She used her magic to read the letter, but she had to use her glasses since it was dark on the room.

Dear Rarity,

It is clear as day who the elite really appreciate and value and it certainly isn't me. You've been so busy trying to be the pony everypony should know that you've neglected Twilight's dress and left me in the sidelines. I've had enough of trying to impress a group of ponies that clearly only are interested in you. You've clearly put your new reputation over our friendship and I'm tired of feeling abandoned. I'm going back to Ponyville and Ray is with me. I need to find my own gift for Twilight's birthday since the dress is no longer important to you.

Chase Young

P.S. All I told the Princess is that you needed to stay on business and I needed to return home. You're welcome!

Rarity just sighed to herself as she just lowered her head sadly.

"He's right," said Rarity quietly, "I've been so focused on impressing the elite that I've neglected what was my priority and I abandoned my best friend. I owe Chase a big apology..."

Rarity then got herself ready for bed, making a personal goal that tomorrow she would set things right.

(Scene changes)

The next morning was spent packing up her bags and stacking them onto the small back of the Bags Valet, who was once again struggling to hold onto everything.

"Oh, I hope I haven't forgotten anything," said Rarity.

"Me...too..." the Bag Valet strained.

"We better get going," said Rarity.

As Opal was sitting on a bed, Rarity used her magic to pick her up. Opal yowled as she held into the bed sheets as Rarity tucked the cat into her pet carrier.

"I must get back to Ponyville with enough time to finish Twilight's ensemble," said Rarity, "and I hope Chase will help me with it. If he's still speaking to me..."

She got ready to leave when she heard the opening to her letterbox click and a letter glided to the floor. The Bags Valet was struggling to move forward as Rarity used her magic to pick up and open the letter.

"For me?" said Rarity surprised as she read it, "Dearest Rarity, your prescience is requested at the Canterlot garden party tomorrow afternoon. Yours, Jet Set and Upper Crust!"

Rarity then gasped.

"The Canterlot garden party!" Rarity exclaimed, "Why next to the Grand Galloping Gala, that is the premier event in Canterlot!" Rarity couldn't help but pinch the cheeks of the Bags Valet and then squealed with glee, but then realized something.

"Oh, but if I go, I'll miss Twilight's birthday..." said Rarity, "But if I don't go, my new reputation in Canterlot as a Very Important Pony might be ruined! I might never be invited to another high society again! Friend's birthday...Very Important Pony..."

Rarity winced, but then made her decision.

"It's just too important," said Rarity before grabbing a sheet of paper and a quill as she sat down on the floor, "My Dear Twilight, I am afraid I won't be able to make it to your birthday party tomorrow, because...because Opal is quite ill, and she is in no condition to make the long journey back to Ponyville! I do hope you understand. Your friend Rarity."

Rarity couldn't help but be a rather dramatic as she recited her letter and Opal just glared as she sat amongst the big load of baggage.

"I suppose this means you don't need me to bring down your bags?" the Bag Valet asked.

"No," Rarity answered before adding, "But, I will need some help unpacking them."

"Oomph!" said the Bags Valet as the bags tumbled on top off him, even Opal yelped as well as the Bags Valet was buried alive. Rarity looked a tad concern, but deep down she could feel a certain colt giving her a very stern and disappointed stare at her.

(Scene changes)

The next day, Rarity was dressed up in a very basic yellow dress and had some flowers tied into her naturally curly tail.

"What do you think?" Rarity asked Opal, "Too much?" Opal just looked, said nothing, and began to lick herself snootily.

"You're right. Too little," said Rarity as she headed towards the door and added a hat with pink flowers and blue ribbons on her head, "Ah, garden party, here I come!" Rarity opened the door when...

"SURPRISE!" shouted five ponies at her, except for Chase who just said nothing but stayed out of view for the moment.

Rarity gasped and was so surprised that she passed out. Rarity later opened her eyes slowly, seeing a familiar pink pony in her view.

"Swoosh! And right before she hit the ground," said Pinkie, but her voice sounded faded to Rarity, "shoom, she-Hi again!" The others just looked at her as Rarity rose to her hooves.

"What are you-how did you-Why are you-" Rarity stuttered.

"Listen to her," said Applejack, "She's so excited to see us, she can hardly talk."

"What I mean to say is," Rarity continued, trying to recompose herself, "what are you all doing here?"

"When I got your letter saying you were stuck in Canterlot," Twilight explained, "I asked Pinkie Pie if it wouldn't be too much trouble to move my birthday party here, so you wouldn't have to miss it!"

Pinkie nodded in agreement.

"Balloons are super easy to pack," said Pinkie Pie as she opened a small suit case and several balloons came flying out of it. One of the deflated balloons landed on Rarity's hat.

"Wow...First you get me a suite at Canterlot castle and now this," said Rarity, rather touched, "I don't know what to say, Twilight."

"How about you start by saying what you're doing in that fancy getup?" Rainbow interrogated as she flew into Rarity's face. She looked at them nervously and it didn't help that Chase Young was giving her a death glare.

"This? Uh-well," Rarity stuttered, "I- I always put on something a little fancy when Opal's feeling under the weather...Cheers her right up."

Rarity laughed nervously as Chase rolled his eyes since he didn't believe one word she said. Even Rainbow looked at her skeptically.

"Oh, poor Opal," said Fluttershy, believing Rarity, "Where is the sick darling?"

"Oh, uhh, she's..." Rarity said uneasily, "Hold on a minute."

She quickly slammed the door.

"Huh?" said the other ponies, looking rather puzzled as Chase just shook his head.

Inside the suite, Opal was once again just enjoying herself on the bed when Rarity used her magic to pick her up once more, including the bed sheets. Opal yowled in protest.

"I am so sorry about this," said Rarity quickly before dragging poor Opal into the bathroom.

"ROWR!"

And soaking the cat in running water before setting her down. Opal gave a low growl as she shivered from being left all wet on the bed. Rarity then opened the door again.

"She's resting on the bed," said Rarity quickly as Fluttershy rushed inside. The others then followed at a casual pace.

"Poor baby," said Fluttershy as she cuddled the cat close, making her yowl again, "She looks awful." Opal just growled, wishing she could tell Fluttershy the truth about her "sickness". Rarity noticed that Chase was still glaring.

"I should expose you right now!" Chase warned under his breath before Rarity pushed him outside the door so they could talk in private.

"Chase, please, don't please!" Rarity pleaded, "They don't need to know! Look, I'll...I'll go to Twilight's party. I'll even wear this dress! Okay? Just please, please don't tell them what's really going on!"

Rarity was literally kneeling on her hind knees before him. Chase just huffed.

"You...are...so...lucky I'm a merciful pony," said Chase slowly, not hiding his anger, "But you better come clean before the night is over or first thing in the morning, I'm telling them everything what you've been up to! This is more than just lying, Rarity, but you turning your back on your friends, and breaking your promises to me is just stupid!"

Rarity flinched at his stern tone. Chase had to fight hard not to raise his voice so nopony else could hear, but the anger and hurt he felt toward her was made clear.

"I understand," said Rarity calmly as Chase walked away without another word. He had to take a deep breath so he could calm down a bit as they returned inside the suite.

"Is...that my dress?" Twilight asked as she noticed the pastel yellow gown with just a pink neck tie on it.

"Yes," said Rarity slowly.

"It's so...simple," said Twilight skeptically, "So practical..." Rarity held her breath nervously.

"So me!" said Twilight excitedly as she waved her fore-hooves in the air, "It's the perfect dress for my party! I love it!" Rarity sighed with relief.

"You don't know how glad I am to hear you say that," said Rarity as she discreetly discarded her dress sketch into a nearby wastebasket. Twilight then turned to Chase.

"You like my new dress, Chase?" Twilight asked giddily.

"Yes, I'm...I'm kind of surprised you would wear yellow for your own birthday," said Chase.

"Well, you always said a soft yellow goes well with my coloring," said Twilight, "Besides, I wanted to ask you something."

"What is it?" Chase asked casually.

"Would you be my date?" Twilight asked, "If we're gonna have a real first date, I wouldn't mind it being on my birthday."

The other ponies cooed as Chase blushed shyly and rubbed a fore-hoof on the floor.

"It's official," Rainbow teased as she nudged his side, "best friends who are dating! WHAA!"

Chase grabbed her and pinned her down with a death glare as she chuckled nervously.

"I'll stay out of it." Rainbow Dash said quickly before getting out of his grip.

Chase took a deep breath before he calmed down and faced Twilight with a smile.

"I would be honored," said Chase, "Birthday girl."

Twilight gave a squeal as she jumped on her hooves excitedly and even Chase was feeling much better about tonight, especially since Twilight was looking forward to their date this time around. Though he was still going to make sure Rarity kept her promise.

(Scene changes)

At last, it was sunset and it was time for the party. At Twilight's request, she had asked Chase to wear a traditional wardrobe. He made sure to be at the pick-up early to escort her and the rest of their friends to the party site. He fought hard not to laugh at the fact that Twilight was so excited to see him. Not to mention she looked absolutely beautiful in her simple dress. He had much more confidence that this date was going to be so much better.

"When I told the Princess that I was moving the party to Canterlot," Twilight explained, wearing her dress and had one fore-leg wrapped around Chase's right, "she was kind enough to offer the Canterlot castle ballroom!"

Chase used his magic to open the door and the ballroom area was already decorated for the party.

"Isn't it fancy pants?" said Pinkie as she got in front of everypony's view.

"Fancy Pants?!" Rarity exclaimed as she ducked behind Rainbow, "Where?!"

"She's talking about the interior decor, Rares," said Chase with a slightly irritated tone as Applejack, Rainbow, and Fluttershy gave her some funny looks.

"Ahh, I mean, where did you find the time to put up all these decorations?" Rarity asked with a light laugh and then a whimper.

"Oh, I never leave home without my party cannon," said Pinkie as she presented them a blue colored cannon with pink flower wheels. Pinkie pressed the trigger, causing an explosion and a party blower sound as she perfectly decorated a nearby table, scattering lots of confetti around the table.

"Ta-da!" said Pinkie. Rarity just glared since she was now covered in confetti.

"I thought about having my birthday outside," said Twilight as she lead Chase toward the other side of the ballroom and looked out of the giant windows, "but they're having another party on the castle grounds today."

Rarity looked outside and gasped before ducking out of view. She could see that the garden party was in full swing. Rarity continued to peek outside nervously as Pinkie slowly rose up beside her.

"Let's party!" said Pinkie as she grabbed Rarity and pulled her away from the window.

With the sound of a record player playing some very loud swing music, Twilight's birthday party had officially began. To start, the six ponies decided to toss her up and down. Twilight just laughed happily as she rose and fell. A little later, Twilight and Chase were serving slices of her birthday cake to everypony. Pinkie and Fluttershy were already munching away as Twilight handed Applejack her slice. The orange pony had barely taken a bite when she and Fluttershy were hit in the faces with some cake. Chase and Twilight gasped until they noticed Rainbow laughing at them. Her laughter soon turned into a nervous smile as all the ponies minus Rarity smirked at Rainbow with slices of cake in their hooves. Rarity looked rather nervous until...

SPLAT!

They all smashed cake at Rainbow. Rarity had gotten a little cake on her hat, but still smiled as the rest of her friends were on the floor, covered in cake and laughing happily. Next, Twilight led a conga line with Chase right behind her, followed by Pinkie, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rainbow, and Rarity at the back end. Rarity did her best to enjoy herself, but she couldn't take her eyes off of the garden party outside, especially when she saw Jet Set and Upper Crust from the window.

"Mmh...No reason I can't at least make an appearance," said Rarity to herself. She waited for when the conga line made a one-eighty near the entrance to the ballroom. She then pretended to conga on the other side of the window before dashing away.

In the garden party area, a small band was playing some classical music as some other high class ponies were chattering about. Rarity then crossed under a rose arch to present herself.

"I'm here!" Rarity announced proudly.

"Darling, I'm so glad you made it," said Upper Crust.

"Rarity!" said Fancy Pants, "So happy to see you here."

"I wouldn't have miss this for the world," Rarity replied.

"Where is Chase?" said Fancy Pants, "I thought he'd be here with you." Rarity blinked before she came up with another...actually it was a half-truth.

"He's with his special somepony this evening," said Rarity, "It's her birthday and he didn't want to disappoint her."

"Ahh, young love," said Fancy Pants with a chuckle before his nose caught something, "I say what is that scent you're wearing? It smells like..." He sniffed again, "Is that cake frosting?"

Rarity looked nervous for a moment. She had forgotten that some cake and frosting had gotten into her hat during the cake fight.

"Yes, I always dab a little frosting behind my ears before I go out," said Rarity quickly with a nervous laugh, "After all, who doesn't like the smell of cake frosting?" Fancy Pants and Upper Crust just looked at her for a moment.

"I know I do," said Fancy Pants in approval.

"Mm-hmm," said Upper Crust, but one could tell she only agreed cause Fancy Pant approved. Rarity sighed with relief.

"Well, all this talk about cake has made me hungry," said Rarity, "Think I'll go see what's on the hors d'oeuvre table. If you'll excuse me..." Rarity then zipped away as Fancy Pants and Upper Crust began their own conversation. Rarity continued on her way, only slowing down before a game of ponies playing crochet. The pony took his shot and the others stomped their hooves to applaud him.

Back inside the ballroom, everypony had put on a blindfold and was holding sticks so they would whack some piñatas. The others swung away as they tried to move about. Twilight just stood still and swung her stick wildly until Chase kept her steady with both his hooves in place. Twilight blushed heavily with a smile.

Rarity had simply tugged her blindfold off, dropped her stick, and sneaked out of the ballroom once more. She returned to see Fancy Pants and Upper Crust still conversing with each other as Rarity picked up a random hors d'oeuvre.

When Rarity had returned, a bowl of dipping chocolate had been set up. Rainbow, Twilight, and Chase had grabbed some strawberries on a stick to dip them into the chocolate. Pinkie used a giant lollipop and dunked her entire face into the chocolate as Rarity arrived at the bowl. She smiled nervously and looked out of the window watching the party as she subconsciously dipped her hors d'oeuvre into the chocolate and put it in her mouth. She choked for a moment before spitting it out. Pinkie, Rainbow, Twilight, and Chase looked at her before she pointed at something. They all looked away before Rarity took off again. However, she failed to notice that Chase hadn't looked away and was now scowling at her for sneaking off.

"I think I left the bathwater running in my suite," said Rarity to Fancy Pants and Upper Crust.

"I really should go check on Opal," Rarity told Twilight, Chase, and Rainbow Dash as they were dancing. Chase just glared at her as he continued to dance with Twilight, but Rarity still took off.

"Is that Princes Celestia?" Rarity called out before the ponies near the game of crochet.

"I need to use the little fillies' room!" Rarity told Twilight in a hushed tone. Twilight was just wearing a party hat as she blew her party trumpet.

"Can I get anypony some more punch?" Rarity asked the other high class ponies.

"I...have to go to do the...thing with the...stuff," said Rarity as she continued going from one party to the next and was tiring herself out.

"Uh, what's with the croquet mallet?" Rainbow asked her as she held a pink balloon in her hooves.

"What croquet mallet?" Rarity asked with a muffled voice.

"Duh, the one in your mouth!" Rainbow said as a matter of fact as the other girls looked at her blankly.

Chase just glared. Rarity then realized what was in her mouth and spat it out with a nervous laugh.

"Ooh, that croquet mallet," said Rarity, "I- well I, you know..." Rarity could feel Chase's stare burning into her mane as the others gathered around her, "...the truth is...the truth is..."

"Were you at that other party in the garden?" Twilight asked her as Rarity thought her heart had skipped a beat.

"I, I..." Rarity stuttered, unable to answer.

"Rarity, I'm surprised at you," said Twilight.

"Twilight, let me explain! I-" Rarity tried to plead as she crouched before Twilight and looked up at her.

"I hadn't realized you were such a savvy business pony!" Twilight remarked.

"You must understand! I-" Rarity tried to explain.

"All of those ponies look so posh," Twilight continued, not listening to Rarity as she looked at the ponies outside the window, "And with the Grand Galloping Gala coming up, I bet you could totally get some of them to buy your dresses. Very smart!"

Rarity was just stunned. Chase was stunned as well. Twilight had literally given Rarity a chance to get off the hook for all her lying and sneaking around!

"Woo, wwwhy yes, I-I didn't want you to think I was being rude," said Rarity slowly, "so that's exactly the reason I didn't tell you. The one and only reason."

Rarity laughed nervously but could see that Chase was steaming and could no longer look at her. The rest of her friends believed what she had said.

"Oh, well, you didn't have to do that," said Twilight kindly, "You should totally go over there and mingle!" Rarity was stunned again and was touched.

"Twilight, you really are the best friend a pony could ever ask for," said Rarity as she gave the purple pony a hug, "I don't know why I ever thought you wouldn't understand."

"Understand what?" Twilight asked.

"Nothing," said Rarity quickly, but heard a low growl of Chase close by, but ignored it, "See you girls later!"

Rarity tried to walk away as fast as she could.

"Hey, wait up!" said Rainbow, "We're your friends! I'm sure they won't mind if we check out the party too!"

"I don't know, Rainbow," said Chase, "These ponies look pretty snooty and I mean Gala snooty."

"Come on, Chase!" Rainbow said, urging him. "They'll loosen up once we show them a good time. C'mon you guys! Let's show them how to party Ponyville style!"

Rarity was left agape as Rainbow, Applejack, and Twilight zoomed out of the ballroom with Fluttershy not too far behind and Pinkie pushing her party cannon with her.

"Oh no!" Rarity groaned as Chase walked past her.

"You had your chance to avoid this Rarity if you had only told the truth," Chase replied with a stern look on his face as he walked by. Rarity then went to catch up to them.

When she had arrived, Pinkie launched her party cannon and the other girls were doing a conga line right behind her with Twilight holding their music player at the back of the line with a fore-leg. The other ponies looked at them indignantly.

Rainbow then tried her hoof at a game of croquet, but she swung so hard that she spun about and lost grip of her mallet. The mallet ended up knocking off the wig of a mare in the distance. The colt speaking to her suddenly looked uncomfortable and dismissed himself. Some other high class ponies were spluttering and glaring at Fluttershy as she started to feed some of the birds in one of the trees. Rarity then looked as one pony politely ate a cupcake when Pinkie smashed her face into a cake nearby.

"Mmm!" Pinkie hummed as the pony next to her glared and snubbed her.

"How come y'all aren't doing any gardening?" Applejack asked innocently, getting her hooves and tail covered in mud. Then a few more ponies were giving Twilight some weird looks as she was trying to dance. Rarity looked at Chase, who snorted.

"So Twilight can't dance, big deal," he told her, "She's still the perfect pony for me." Chase smiled as Rarity rolled her eyes and grabbed a glass to drink some punch.

"Can you believe what that pony is wearing?" Jet Set remarked as Twilight continued to dance.

"It's just so plain," Upper Crust added.

"Excuse me, but that's my... MMM-MMM," Chase was cut off when Rarity shoved a cupcake into his mouth.

"Hush you!" Rarity scolded sternly but Chase spit the cake out and gave her a warning glare as she flinched. Rarity nervously laughed, "yeah."

"Chase, my boy," said Fancy Pants, "I'm surprised to see you here! Rarity said you were on a date this evening."

Chase cleared his throat. At least Rarity didn't lie about what I was doing this evening...mostly. Chase said to himself.

Then several ponies backed away from Applejack as she was apparently doing some weeding.

"Yes, I am," said Chase, ignoring Rarity's protests to keep quiet, "She's over there! I do apologize for her unorthodox dancing, but she is enjoying her birthday."

Fancy Pants gave a smile before approaching Twilight and Chase followed beside him.

"Excuse me, might I ask where you got your ensemble?" Fancy Pants asked Twilight as Chase went to stand beside his date.

"Why, yes!" said Twilight, "Yes, you may. A very, very close friend of mine from Ponyville made it for me."

Rarity did a spit take and rushed over to the three ponies. She hadn't even noticed that she had spat her punch on Jet Set and Upper Crust.

"Ponyville? You don't say?" said Fancy Pants surprised.

"I do say," said Twilight cheerfully, "Her name is-"

"Fancy Pants," Rarity interrupted, "Come with me! I'd like to show you this, er, thing that's over there. On the other side of the room."

"In a moment, my dear," said Fancy Pants, "This lovely filly from Ponyville was just about to tell me who made her charming dress." The other elite ponies gathered around as Rarity grew more nervous

"That dress?" said Rarity. "On come now, who cares, it's just a plain old-"

"Oh, don't be so modest," Twilight interrupted, "This dress you made is beautiful."

Now the truth was starting to come out and all the elite ponies gasped and one pony dropped their drink, which shattered as it hit the ground. Rarity looked about rather uncomfortable as she was now the center of attention when she clearly didn't want to be.

"We all think so!" said Twilight as the five other girls appeared and she rewrapped a fore-leg around Chase's foreleg. Fancy Pants was rather stunned.

"You and Chase know these ponies?" Fancy Pants asked Rarity specifically.

The other elite ponies began to chatter about as Rarity looked more and more uncomfortable as she bit her upper lip. Twilight was smiling at first, but then she and the others looked worried as how uncomfortable Rarity was looking. Chase was the only pony who gave Rarity a fierce glare. Rarity felt devastated as she turned away and took a few steps forward.

I can't do this anymore Rarity said to herself a determined look appeared on her face, They need to know the truth...

"Yes. Yes, I do know them," said Rarity with her head held high to maintain her dignity, "They may not be as sophisticated as some of you Canterlot ponies, but they are my best friends. and they are without a doubt the most important ponies I know. And I must add that...while Chase may not have started out as a high class pony and not into fashion all of the time, he has worked harder than any other pony I know to get where he is today. He is what you would call a jiu jitsu master, one who can be proficient in just about anything he sets his mind to. I have met many stallions who are considered royalty, but Chase is the true definition of what a prince should be. He is kind, smart, well-mannered, gentle, compassionate, and so much more."

Chase smiled, deeply touched by her comments. The rest of the girls did the same. The other elite ponies were left stunned.

"Important ponies?" Jet Set remarked, "These ruffians?"

"Don't make me laugh!" Upper Crust added, "I'd say Chase has found his place, especially with that ruffian he calls his date!"

"Now you listen here!" said Chase sternly, "Twilight Sparkle is one of the smartest, sweetest, and most magically talented ponies to ever come out of Celestia's School of Gifted Unicorns! In fact, like me, she is also a protégé to Princess Celestia!" Twilight couldn't help but feel a little shy.

"Gah!" Jet Set and Upper Crust said in shock.

"And even if she was just a small town librarian from Ponyville," said Chase, "I love her just the same. Being important is not determined by where a pony lives, who their family is, or how much wealth or influence they have. An important pony is somepony who makes a difference in a pony's life and works hard to make Equestria a better place! Twilight and our friends have done that and so much more! They are the true definition of what is considered to be an important pony."

The other girls couldn't help but crack a smile. Now Twilight was literally imitating Fluttershy as she tried her best to avoid eye contact with anypony and her cheeks were deep red. After all, Chase had just said he loved her in public and in front of a group of elite Canterlot ponies.

"Well spoken, my boy," said Fancy Pants, "and personally, I, for one, find them charmingly rustic." If Jet Set and Upper Crust weren't left stunned before, they really did look like ponies with egg all over their faces now.

"And I think the dress you made for your friend is lovely," Fancy Pants said with a chuckle to Rarity, "I dare say every mare in Canterlot will be wanting one." Rarity beamed as the rest of her friends smiled.

"Oh, I'd like to place my order right now," said Upper Crust eagerly, as she leaned against Rarity.

"I think you should get two," Jet Set added, trying to sandwich Rarity between them before the marshmallow pony dashed away, making the couple bump into each other.

"Er, yes, now then," said Fancy Pants, clearing his throat, "How about you introduce me to your friends?"

"With pleasure," said Rarity, "But before I do, I owe all of you an apology. I got so caught up in wanting to prove I was an important pony to the Canterlot Elite that I...I was afraid of what would happen if anypony learned where I was from or the fact that I was friends with ponies who were...not as sophisticated. I even tried to justify it by saying that I would help Chase become accepted by the elite ponies, but as I became the popular pony, I left him behind. I was so desperate to hold onto my reputation that I was willing to miss Twilight's birthday party for it. That was why I was so...shocked to see you all here and why I kept sneaking to this party."

"So...is that why you kept giving Rarity all the dirty looks," Twilight asked Chase as he nodded.

"It was more because I was so hurt from being left behind," said Chase, "Plus I had her design a dress that was far more...extravagant for your birthday. We were going to give it to you together as a birthday present, but...she was too busy."

"It's actually how you got the simple dress your wearing now," said Rarity sadly, but Twilight just smiled.

"Well, I like my simple dress," said Twilight, "and we forgive you. Don't we guys?"

"Yeah"

"Of course"

"Righty do!"

"Uh-huh!" said the rest of the girls as Rarity smiled before turning to Chase.

"I hope you can forgive me," said Rarity sadly, "I know I hurt you deeply from all of this." Chase gave her a smile and a hug.

"It only hurts so much because we're are such good friends," said Chase, "and of course I forgive you." He then turned to Twilight. "I'm sorry if this spoiled your birthday in anyway." Twilight chuckled.

"Of course not," said Twilight, "But...did you have to say you love me in front of everypony?"

Chase smiled as he looked at her.

"I just felt the need to defend you," said Chase, "and I meant everything I said too."

"Oh, Chase." Twilight said, deeply touched with a smile. "You big lug."

She gave him a hug and then kissed him on the cheek, making him blush. Fancy Pants, who had just been listening quietly, chuckled to himself.

"It makes me very happy to see you both have such good friends," said Fancy Pants, "And that Chase has found himself such a charming filly to love. Now let's hear more about them shall we?"

Chase and Rarity smiled in agreement as they spent the rest of the evening introducing themselves to Fancy Pants and telling him about some of their adventures. Once the garden party had ended, Chase presented Twilight with a custom made charm bracelet. Chase also gave Twilight a kiss on the cheek. While she was annoyed at Chase making her blush again, she still appreciated the kiss and declared that had been her best birthday ever. She even admitted she was looking forward to her next date with Chase. Chase and the rest of the girls returned home late that night as Rarity returned to her suite.

(Scene changes)

The next morning, Rarity was in her guest bedroom, ready to write a letter to the Princess.

"Dear Princess Celestia," Rarity recited, "I wanted to tell you about the important lesson I learned during my visit."

"Now that I would like to hear," said a voice. Rarity turned around to see it was the Princess herself. Rarity decided to vocally share her lesson instead.

"I learned that no matter where you go in life," said Rarity as she walked over to her suite window and saw Ponyville in the distance, "you should never forget that you are the product of your home and your friends. And that is something always to be proud of, no matter what."

"Hm, a very valuable lesson to have learned," said Princess Celestia with a smile.

"It certainly is!" said the Bags Valet, who was once again, straining to carry all of Rarity's bags on his back, "But...might I ask that we hurry things up a bit?! Oh no!"

And once again, the Bag Valet got buried alive under all the luggage. Rarity and Princess Celestia just looked at each other and then smiled.