Canterlot Boutique
Pony's Log Number 514: Success always come at a price, but the big question is whether or not you're willing to pay the price...
One day at the Carousel Boutique , Rarity and Mario were wearing their work glasses and were busy at work as Rarity grabbed some pastel blue and white fabric as well as a two toned minty green fabric and a dark red fabric. It was then Rarity looked up at the clock as it just hit three o'clock. Rarity smiled excitedly as she dropped the fabrics and pasted her nose against the window. Mario just smiled and recollected the rolls of fabric with his magic. Rarity then frowned when she didn't see what she was looking for and then looked at the clock again as the minute hand moved to the next minute.
"Don't worry, Rares," said Mario gently as he continued his work, "You always taught me that the best things in life come to those who are patent." Rarity just sighed as she returned to her sewing machine, humming to herself.
"Mario?" Rarity asked gently as she continued working, "You do understand why I'm so anxious don't you?"
"Of course I do," said Mario as he continued measuring and cutting up some fabric with his magic, "We're finally going to learn if we can proceed with the next step of your dream as the upcoming fashion queen of fine couture." Rarity chuckled at the title Mario had given her.
"Mario, you really are a wonderful friend," said Rarity, "I can assure you that no matter what happens that I am glad you are here to support me." Mario smiled and they went back to work for a few seconds when Rarity heard a bell jingle and gasped.
"Was that the Pony Post?!" Rarity exclaimed as she turned around excitedly but then frowned when she saw that it was just Opal meowing and playing with her mouse toy.
"Oh, it's just you, Opal," said Rarity bluntly. Opal look offended as she gave her owner a glare and stomped away importantly.
"That cat is so vain," said Mario to himself.
"Ohhh...every other day he's here like clockwork!" said Rarity as she looked out the window and paced about, ignoring Mario's remark about Opal, "Not today! What could possibly be holding him up?!" It was then a familiar pink pony smashed her face into the window.
"GAH!" Mario yelped in surprise.
"Strawberry cinnamon cilantro salutations!" Pinkie said from outside the window and then disappeared.
"What?" said Rarity.
"Come again?" Mario added in an un-enthusiastic tone.
"What indeed, but not come again, I'm already here!" said Pinkie as she was suddenly appeared inside, "I bet your both wondering what warrants such a welcome! Well, that welcome is warranted by a pony that wisked up a warm batch of strawberry cinnamon cilantro cupcakes!" Pinkie then showed Rarity and Mario the cupcake and then tossed the entire thing into her mouth.
They should've named Pinkie "Kirby" with the way she sucks up food.
"Kirby is a boy, Mr. narrator," Pinkie replied annoyingly.
Right...my bad...
"That strangely sickening flavor combination sounds just as bad as it tastes," said Pinkie as she swallowed and she stuck her tongue out in disgust. Even her mane had deflated slightly, "Ugh, so I came here to offer you both some!" Pinkie then offered the cupcakes to the two ponies. Rarity made a face as Mario gave Pinkie a funny look. He loved his best friend and little sister, but he still wondered why Pinkie still acted like she didn't listen to half the stuff that came out of her mouth.
"After that visually descriptive and disturbing endorsement, I'll pass," said Rarity as she pushed the cupcakes away, "Mario?"
"No thank you," said Mario as politely as he could, "And you shouldn't even be offering a cupcake that you don't even find appetizing, Pinkie..."
"Oh, I almost forgot!" Pinkie said, interrupting Mario, as she tossed the cupcakes off the silver platter and showed underneath it was a letter and held it with a fore-hoof, "I have this letter for you, Rarity!" Rarity and Mario smiled as the former tried to grab the letter but Pinkie kept moving her fore-leg about as she spoke.
"The post pony was going to deliver it," Pinkie continued, "but after a strawberry cinnamon cilantro cupcake, he was feeling kinda queasy. And since I was heading over anyway. I figured I could do it for him! Here you go!"
"Just hope he doesn't sue Pinkie for food poisoning," Mario muttered quietly as Rarity finally grabbed the letter, tore the envelope apart with just her fore-hooves and then began mumbling as she read it. Mario just stood close by as Pinkie ate another one of her cupcakes. Rarity then giggled excitedly.
"What's it say?" Pinkie asked with her mouth full.
"I got it!" Rarity screamed and then saw Mario beside her, "I mean we got it!"
"We got it?" Mario asked.
"We got it!" Rarity repeated as she and Mario jumped up and down excitedly.
"Woo-hoo!" Pinkie cheered as she did some cartwheels and then walked back to Rarity and Mario, "Got what?"
"Oh, Mario and I have been holding out for the perfect location," Rarity explained, "and it finally became available! So now I can fulfill my dream of opening a boutique in Canterlot!"
"Whoo! I'm so excited, I think I'm gonna lose my cupcakes," said Pinkie as she put a fore-hoof over her mouth, feeling sick, as she dashed away. Mario just winced and rolled his eyes as the pink pony left the boutique. Rarity just smiled excitedly as she held the letter to her chest.
"Isn't this exciting?" said Mario, "We're taking our first step to expanding your fashion empire across Equestria!"
"No, darling," said Rarity gently, "Our fashion empire. This wouldn't have been possible if I didn't have such a good business partner."
"I thought I was just your top assistant?" Mario asked.
"After everything you've done to help make this possible," said Rarity, "I'm proud to share my fashion empire with you, partner." Mario smiled as he gave Rarity a hug, which she returned with a happy smile on her face.
(Main theme)
A few days later, the train pulled into Canterlot Station. The main eight, minus Mario and Rarity, and Spike quickly exited the train.
"Rarity and my husband are both such savvy business ponies," said Twilight, "I'm so impressed Rarity used the huge bonus she earned making the costumes for Sapphire Shores' Equestria-wide tour to open a second boutique. And I never knew Mario had been saving years of train commissions just to help Rarity have the extra funds to get a storefront right here in Canterlot."
"Well, Mario says he owes alot to Rarity," Shenran replied, "It's because of her that he found his confidence to share his sewing and fashion talents with the rest of Equestria. "
"And he's so good at it!" said Twilight, "I mean, how many girls can say their own husbands give 'em beautiful dresses on their birthdays that they made themselves?" Twilight giggled with delight. Shenran just looked a little sad. Fluttershy took notice.
"Oh don't worry, honey," said Fluttershy, "You don't need to make me dresses to make me feel special." Shenran smiled and gave his wife a soft kiss and felt better.
"I'm just surprised you aren't jealous that Mario had saved such a large sum of money just for Rarity," said Rainbow. Twilight sighed.
"Actually," said Twilight, "when I lived at the Golden Oak Library, I never received any monthly bills. I originally thought Celestia was covering the costs since I was her student, but then I found out from her that...Mario had been paying the bills for me the entire time, even during those weeks when he wanted nothing to do with me." The others were surprised.
"How did you find out?" Shenran asked curiously.
"Shortly after we got back from Horse-a-lulu," said Twilight, "I looked at the mail that had piled up and I found the bills. When I opened them, I found that the payments were all under Mario's name. That was when he came clean about paying them for me."
"And how did you react?" Fluttershy asked.
"I wept," said Twilight, "It was a mixture of joy and guilt. I couldn't believe that Mario had spent all those years paying my living expenses for me. I asked why, he said it was all out of love. I owe him so much for all the generosity he's given me over the years. In the end, helping Rarity set up a second shop is pocket change compare to all that!"
"I'll bet," said Rainbow, "He'd buy you all of Equestria if he had the money." Twilight sighed.
"I'd rather he didn't," Twilight replied softly, "All I need is his love."
"And a few hundred books every year," Spike teased as the others snickered.
"Yeah and those too," said Twilight honestly and everypony laughed.
It wasn't long before they arrived at building that had imprints of purple gems along the rooftop and a round door that had a heart-shaped window on it. Thus one could say the building has a little bit of both Mario and Rarity in the outer design. Inside, the five girls and two boys were all giving various exclamations of awe as they looked at the interior of the boutique, which was all set up and ready for business. It was also two stories for extra selling space.
"I take it from your reaction that you like the boutique?" Rarity asked as Mario, wearing his work glasses, stood beside her.
"It's lovely," said Fluttershy.
"Gosh, Rarity and Mario," said Applejack, "I know hard work when I see it, and it looks like you both worked your hooves to a nub!" Fluttershy and Shenran nodded in agreement.
"I don't know," said Pinkie as she held one of Rarity's fore-hooves, "Those hooves don't look nubby. They look scubbied and buffied and pedied!" She then picked up one of Mario's fore-hooves.
"The same can be said for Mario's," said Pinkie, "I thought he didn't like getting hooficures!"
"I did not get my hooves pedied thank you," said Mario as he pulled his fore-hoof away, "That only happened once because I lost a bet with Fluttershy...and my wife." Fluttershy snickered.
"You still enjoyed it though," Fluttershy teased.
"Bleh!" Mario remarked as he stuck his tongue out at her. Fluttershy just smirked and returned the gesture, making Shenran, Applejack, and Rainbow snicker.
"Alright, that's enough teasing my twinsie and business partner," said Rarity, "and...well, despite our 'nubby scrubby buffy pony pedi. The pedi for just me alone of course. We actually have been working very hard! However, even with the two of us, we could have never gotten the boutique ready for the grand opening without the help of our new manager, Sassy Saddles!" It was then a rather tall pastel blue unicorn mare appeared with orange and yellow mane and tail. She was also wearing a short black puffy sleeved black mini dress with a golden saddle around the torso.
"Bust my buttons, Rarity and Mario!" said Sassy, "The ponies from Ponyville!" All but Rarity and Mario said hello to the unicorn.
"I knew I needed a manager for the Canterlot Carousel," said Rarity, "so when Sassy showed me her resume and I saw that she worked in all of the finest boutiques in Canterlot. We hired her right on the spot."
"It also helps that I knew her back when we were getting our business masters degrees back in the day," said Mario, "We did quite a few school projects together."
"Remember how we blew the mind of our professor when we literally outsmarted the Canterlot Stock Exchange?" Sassy asked.
"How could I forget?" said Mario with a chuckle, "How many students can brag they made their teacher sit on the floor and bat her lips because we legitimately destroyed the traders market?" Mario imitated the faces their professor had made as Sassy laughed heartily. Twilight wanted to retort since she honestly couldn't remember Mario ever telling her about working with Sassy. But she figured Mario probably had since she could remember them not working together as much when Mario was working for his business masters degree.
"Getting back on track," said Sassy, "For Rarity and Mario's boutique, I then laid out this plan, or "pattern" as we say in the fashion biz."
"Good pun," said Mario.
"Thank you," Sassy continued, "This pattern is set up for Canterlot Carousel so that Rarity and Mario's boutique will be guaranteed success and those doors will never, ever, ever close!"Sassy used her magic to hold up some papers as she showed off the first few panels of her master plan.
"Wow, Sassy," said Twilight, "your attention to detail is truly impressive. I can see why you and my husband worked so well together."
"I've already put a pin in the first place of the pattern - Beautify the Boutique!" Sassy replied as she put a pin over the picture of the boutique. But next was the very crucial pattern piece - Marketing to the Mares!"
"Why just mares?" Shenran asked curiously, "What about us stallions? Rarity and Mario know how to make a fashionable suit and so much more."
"That might be true, Shenran," said Rarity, "but even Mario agrees that our specialty is the gowns and dresses." Mario nodded in agreement.
"We can certainly consider stallion marketing in the future, right Sassy?" Mario replied.
"Of course," said Sassy before getting back on track, "Turns out that everypony here loves royalty."
"Wow, what a shocker," said Shenran sarcastically to his wife. Fluttershy just lightly slapped his shoulder to be quiet, but still smiled since she agreed with him.
"So Mario and I have created a collection that beautifully revolves around the royal element of Canterlot!" said Rarity.
"The dress inspired by Mom is very close to my heart," Mario added making Twilight smile as Sassy approached Twilight.
"And it just so happens there's a hot new princess in Equestria!" said Sassy.
"There's also a hot new prince in Equestria too," Twilight remarked, making Mario blush deep red as the other snickered, Sassy included.
"In every poll that Sassy Saddles took," Rarity said to Twilight, "you were the most popular princess!"
"What about Mario?" Twilight asked. Sassy made a nervous chuckle.
"I...didn't include him in the poll since this was a popular princess demographic," Sassy explained, "I'm sure he's popular in his own right."
"I guess..." said Mario quietly, inwardly wishing he knew where he stood in the popularity polls.
"Hugs, buddy," said Shenran as he gave the alicorn a side hug, "you don't need to be popular to feel special."
"Yeah, you're totally popular where it matters," said Rainbow as she hovered above, "with us!" Mario smiled in agreement.
"Coincidentally," said Rarity, getting everypony's attention to a small display stage, "one of our gowns is inspired by the window in Canterlot Castle commemorating your coronation! Your husband was the one who suggested the idea." Twilight gave her husband a quick kiss on the cheek, making him blush again, as Rarity unfurled the curtains to reveal the dress. It was a blue celestial style dress with a beaded and layered skirt in various shades of blue. It also had some teal colored wings along the back of it. The rest of the Mane eight and Spike walked up to it, giving various comments of approval.
"While I've always prided myself on paying attention to detail," said Rarity, "Mario and I have taken our latest collection to a whole new level with "Rarity's Rules of TLC"!" It was then Pinkie zoomed away and then popped out of what appeared to be Rarity and Mario's workroom sitting on top of a mannequin that had a gold observatory-style headband with a wavy skirt.
"Judging by this baby," said Pinkie, "TLC stands for Tasty Liquorice Candy!" Pinkie then fell off the mannequin, which also made the skirt tear off.
"I think TLC means Tender Love and Care, Pinkie," said Shenran.
"Actually, Shenran," Rarity corrected as she used her magic to reattach the skirt to the outfit, "TLC stands for "Time, Love, and Couture". And while I do agree this dress has potential, Mario and I have not had enough time to give it enough love to become couture."
"But we can assure that when the time is right," said Mario, "this dress will have its chance to shine and make a mare very happy. Rarity's Rules of TLC are our standard for presenting fine, high quality couture." Rarity nodded in agreement as she used her magic to set the dress back into the work room and shut the door.
"But the rest of the gowns in tonight's line have met Rarity's Rules and are ready to be presented!" said Rarity as Mario stood beside her.
"My marketing research also confirmed that customers that viewed somepony famous wearing the gown wish to own that gown for themselves," Sassy pointed out as she showed more of her master plan with a picture of Rarity on a gold star. Mario couldn't help but feel a little disappointed that his face wasn't there as well, "I call this piece of the puzzle Celebrity Status."
"So, Twilight, we were wondering if perhaps you might possibly wear this tonight?" Rarity asked as she and Mario gave her a pleading smile, hoping the purple pony said yes. Sassy also smiled hopefully.
"If being a princess and wearing that dress can help your boutique in any way," said Twilight as she stuck a pin into the star with Rarity's face on it, "then I say stick a pin in it. It's done."
"Alright, everypony!" said Sassy, "Let's set the stage!" She then used her magic to close the curtain and walk away.
"Ever since I was a little filly," Rarity told everypony else, "all I've ever wanted was to own a boutique here in Canterlot. Somepony pinch me! I'm about to open the doors to that very boutique!"
"No need for pinching Rares," said Mario as he adjusted his work glasses, "This is no dream! This is real! Now let's make your lifelong a dream a reality!" Rarity smiled as the two ponies went to open the door to greet. They were then taken aback when Sassy stood right in front of them!
"Welcome to the grand opening of the Canterlot Carousel!" Sassy announced as Rarity and Mario tried to see around her but the unicorn was too tall. The crowds cheered and poor Rarity and Mario, as well as the rest of their friends, were left dumbfounded and completely speechless.
"Oh hello!" said Sassy to the ponies as they started walking inside, "Oh nice to see you! Welcome, welcome! Oh, so happy to..." Sassy continued greeting as Mario and Rarity were still left too stunned to reply over what had happened.
"That Sassy totally stepped on your hooves, Rarity," said Applejack.
"Oh no!" Pinkie exclaimed as she rushed over to one of Rarity's fore-hooves, "Did she mess up that nice pony pedi?!" Pinkie then sighed when she saw that Rarity's fore-hoof was fine.
"Okay. Phew!" Pinkie replied.
"Oh, I don't think she meant to," said Rarity, "Mario did warn me that Sassy can be a bit outspoken and slightly controlling, but...I certainly wasn't expecting her to do something like this."
"Honey, did Sassy ever do this to you?" Twilight asked.
"Well...kinda of...I mean," Mario stuttered, trying to remember if she had, "she did like to do the speaking presentations back in the day for our projects. I let her since I was always feeling extra shy and insecure because of my accident and...guilt. I can only recall her trying to shut me down a couple of times, but after, I stood up for myself and she never did it again...Anyways, don't worry, dear, I'll be speaking to Sassy about what she did later." It was then the very unicorn mare arrived.
"Rarity, Mario, are you ready to reveal the collection?" Sassy asked.
"Is she sure she doesn't wanna do it herself?" Applejack muttered under her breath to Rainbow. Rainbow snorted.
"Yeah," the blue Pegasus replied under her breath to the orange pony.
"Stop it you two," Mario scolded quietly, "I'll make sure Sassy doesn't overstep us again." The two ponies just gave him a light nod in reply.
"Yes we are," said Rarity, "Fluttershy, could you help Twilight get ready?"
"Oh, certainly," Fluttershy replied.
"And Mario, can you help as well?" said Rarity, "I want you to escort Twilight down the stairs when I present the dress."
"Don't you need me for the presentation?" Mario whispered, "I want to make sure Sassy..."
"I'll handle Sassy," said Rarity in a hushed tone, "I want you to be with Twilight when we showcase the princess dress. Thus you can get more marketing when they see not just Twilight, but the royal couple." Mario gave Sassy a discreet glare before sighing loudly.
"Alright, your call," said Mario as he headed on his way with Fluttershy, but not before the yellow Pegasus shoved Mario to the side just for kicks. Mario gave her a glare before they headed upstairs. Shenran snickered. He hadn't seen his wife get sassy with Mario in a long while.
As the ponies continued to chatter with each other, Rarity stood on the main stage of the boutique to address the crowd.
"Fillies and gentlecolts!" said Rarity to the crowd, "I am designer and couturier Rarity. On behalf of myself and my business partner Prince Mario Star, I'd like to welcome you - again..." Rarity laughed nervously, "...to the grand opening of Canterlot Carousel, and I'm thrilled that you are here to see our newest collection inspired by this regal city!" The crowd just oohed and awed excitedly as Rarity opened the curtain to show off four dresses. Sassy smirked as she used her magic to lift the dresses into the air and had the dresses rotate in the air above the crowd, which earned more oohs and ahhs from the ponies watching the dresses move about. Rarity was quite surprised by Sassy's effort to display the dresses before she felt a little indignant that Sassy was once again taking the spotlight away from her. Rarity was about to give Sassy her two bits when a stallion wearing some fashionable glasses approached her.
"Rarity, I'm-" said the stallion.
"Fashion Plate of Cosmare magazine!" said Rarity, "I'm so honored that Cosmare magazine was able to do a piece on the grand opening of our boutique!"
"Well, when Sassy Saddles calls," Fashion Plate replied, "saying she's found the latest and greatest in fashion, we hightail without fail! Now where is your business partner?"
"Oh, Prince Mario will be making his grand entrance shortly," said Rarity.
"Excellent!" said Fashion Plate, "Now tell me all about your latest collection!"
"Oh, uh, it's called "Rarity's Royal Regalia"," the marshmallow mare replied. Mario was willing to forgo having his name excluded for the sake of alliteration.
"Royally radiant!" gasped Fashion Plate impressively as two ponies behind him used their cameras to take some photographs.
"My favorite part of being a designer is finding my inspiration," Rarity explained when Sassy lowered a giant picture of Canterlot behind the marshmallow mare, "and that really wasn't difficult when it came to Canterlot. Everywhere Mario and I looked, the royal city just spoke to us! We call it "In-spire-ation"." Rarity was a little flustered by the sudden props to her presentation, but managed to recover as she spoke and the first dress was presented to the crowd, who oohed in amazement.
"Genius!" said Fashion Plate excitedly, "Simply Genius!"
"We spent hours by the lily pond on the castle grounds," said Rarity as Sassy removed the picture and first dress and then presented a cloth featuring a picture of a pond. Rarity was still a bit frazzled by the sudden props but managed to recover as the next dress was presented, "which inspired this gown - "Water Filly"!" The crowd oohed once again.
"Oh, the whimsy!" Fashion Plate replied, clearly impressed.
"Watching Celestia raise the sun each morning literally lit up our day..." said Rarity when there was a long pause and she turned to see a glowing prop sun appeared behind her and Sassy set up the dress inspired by Celestia was presented, "Add the fact Mario wanted to honor the very mare and princess he calls his "mother", this is "Tripping the Light"." The crowd oohed again.
"Fantastic!" Fashion Plate remarked giddily. He was literally fan-boying now! It was then the lights darkened inside the boutique. Rarity giggled, bracing herself as Sassy made some prop stars float about in the air and the Luna inspired dress was presented with a glowing moon prop behind it.
"And of course," said Rarity, "Luna raising the moon guided me to sleep. We call this "Over the Moon"!" The crowd oohed for this dress as well.
"Well, I certainly am!" said Fashion Plate excitedly as the photographers smiled in agreement.
"And for our finale, we have something very special," said Rarity, "we were inspired by the stained glass window created in honor of Princess Twilight...We call this "The Reign in Stain"!"
"Because the dress is inspired by the-" Fashion Plate said excitedly as he and Rarity smashed their cheeks together.
"-stained glass window of a reigning princess!" Fashion Plate finished as he and Rarity spoke together.
"Yes!" said Rarity happily.
"Oh, well, I think "The Reign in Stain" is too difficult to explain," said Sassy with a short laugh, "Especially for the signature part of a collection?" Rarity was taken aback by the remark.
"But I rather like the-" Rarity tried to explain when Sassy not only cut her off, but got in front of the marshmallow mare and took over the presentation.
"Fillies and gentlecolts," said Sassy proudly, "I, Sassy Saddles, am pleased to introduce the grand finale of the grand opening of Rarity's Royal Regalia - the "Princess Dress"!" It was then a spotlight was shown at the top of the staircase where Twilight was wearing the "Princess Dress", as Sassy described it. Mario was also with her, wearing a black tuxedo and top hat as Twilight held his fore-leg so he could guide her down the stairs. Before the spotlight had appeared, he had given Sassy a death glare for changing Rarity's name for the dress at the last second, but quickly hid his disgust when the spotlight came back on. Fashion Plate gasped when he saw before him the newest royal couple.
"Success!" Fashion Plate squealed with glee. The others oohed and awed in amazement. Both Twilight and Mario modestly waved at the ponies while they made their way to the ground floor. Rarity was still feeling a bit stunned at Sassy taking over again but then smiled at how much praise the Princess Dress was getting as Twilight made her way to the ground floor with Mario as her escort. Rarity's joy was soon cut short when Sassy appeared holding up a clipboard.
"Everypony, please follow me and you can all place your orders for the Princess Dress!" said Sassy as a large crowd of ponies gathered around the unicorn mare to place their orders. Mario just walked up to Rarity with a stern look on her face.
"I thought you were going to make sure Sassy didn't overstep you again?" Mario asked, clearly annoyed.
"Oh!" Rarity retorted as she gave her business partner a glare.
"Rarity," said Fashion Plate as she got the marshmallow mare's attention, "I want to be the first pony to congratulations you! The Princess Dress has just guaranteed Canterlot Carousel's success!" He then gasped with excitement. Rarity and Mario smiled, but then looked concerned once he had walked away.
"The success is supposed to come from the collection, not just one dress," Mario said quietly as Rarity gave a small nod in agreement. It was then the rest of the Mane eight except for Twilight arrived to give various cheers of congratulations.
"Yeah!" said Twilight, "Rarity's Royal Regalia is amazing! And everypony seemed to love the Princess Dress!" Rarity and Mario couldn't help but roll their eyes despite the smiles on their faces.
"Yeah, we could tell alright," said Mario.
"You bet your saddle they did," said Sassy as she held a tall stack of papers, "Rarity and Mario now have one hundred orders for their signature gown!"
"One hundred orders?!" Mario and Rarity stuttered.
"All at one time?!" Rarity added.
"What were you thinking?!" Mario added, not hiding the anger in his tone.
"According to my pattern," Sassy replied as showed her plan, "the next piece is The Success of the Signature Dress, so I don't see the problem!"
"Don't see the prob...GRRR..." Mario snarled. The rest of the group minus Rarity shared uneasy looks with each other. Even Rarity gave Sassy an angry glare.
"Uh..." Applejack stuttered.
"Cupcake?" Pinkie offered.
"Could you guys excuse us for a sec please?" Mario asked as politely as he could. Rarity just smiled sheepishly in reply as the others walked away. Once they were a safe distance, Mario and Rarity spoke severely to Sassy.
"First of all, Sassy Saddles," said Rarity sternly, "I would have appreciated getting to name the final gown from our collection myself." Sassy gave a short laugh.
"My research shows that your "Reign in Stain" name was a play on words that was both very confusing and quite unappealing," Sassy replied in her defense. Rarity and Mario both gave her an angry laugh.
"While we appreciate the fact that you do your homework, Sassy," said Mario, "you need to keep in mind that success doesn't always come from following popular trends. After all, Rarity and I champion ourselves as being trendsetters and not trendfollowers. We didn't get as successful as we are today without taking a few risks and we both felt that "Reign in Stain" was the right call."
"And while Mario and I see your point," Rarity added, "we should have discussed it prior to the grand opening, Sassy."
"We don't appreciate you overstepping us in front of the customers," said Mario sternly, "especially in front of Fashion Plate! I may have let you get away with such behavior back when we were students, Sassy. But I'm not that same shy pony who lacked confidence in trusting his instincts anymore! I can speak for myself and Rarity trusts my judgment. We expect that same trust from you as well. We also don't appreciate you taking so many preorders on just one dress and not the others!"
"I understand Mario," said Sassy, "but please believe me. My only goal is for Canterlot Carousel to succeed. That's why I changed the name, and that is why I took all those orders for the Princess Dress."
"But...but receiving orders for one hundred dresses in one day," Rarity stammered, "It's just too much too soon!" Mario nodded in agreement.
"Are you actually saying we should...cancel the orders?!" Sassy asked rather dramatically.
"Wha...but..." Rarity stuttered as Mario snorted and sighed loudly.
"You should've discussed placing orders with us first," said Mario, "But...hmm...canceling orders is a bit extreme...and we don't want to delay customers of their dresses...what do you think Rares?" Sassy gave Rarity a pleading look again.
"Uh, n-no, Sassy," said Rarity to the tall unicorn, "Promises were made, and Mario and I shall sew our very best to provide each and every pony a Princess Dress full of TLC."
"Oh, thank you, Rarity and Mario, thank you!" said Sassy happily as she gave both ponies a hug. Rarity and Mario couldn't help but sigh in exasperation.
It wasn't long before the rest of the Mane eight and Spike were waving Rarity and Mario goodbye as they left the boutique. Of course Twilight and Mario shared a hug and kiss with each other before parting. Rarity and Mario just watched them walk away from one of the windows.
"Oh, satin and silk, Rarity and Mario," said Sassy, "are you sure you don't want your friends to help you make the dresses?"
"No, Sassy," Rarity replied on hers and Mario's behalf as the two best friends headed into the workroom, "These orders are our responsibility. All we have to do is stick to our plan so I can deliver each and every Princess Dress in keeping with my Rules of Rarity! Mario, would you be a darling and go pick up some extra supplies for me?"
"Right away," said Mario as he made some freight cars appear, coupled himself to the train, and then headed out a special green pipe he had set to take him out of the boutique and on his way to the supple shop in Canterlot. Rarity grabbed some of the materials they already had to get to work.
[Rarity - a pair of scissors cut through some light blue fabric as she sat before her sewing machine wearing her work glasses. Mario had just arrived with his freight train loaded with all the materials they needed to make the dresses. As Rarity began to sing, she continued to sew and then some sparkly fabric flowed across the foreground. She then attached the skirt to the mannequin as Mario stitched the beads into place.]
The rules of Rarity, guaranteed quality
This we can assure
For each and every dress
We vow to give finesse
With time, love, and couture
[Rarity - As she sings, she visions several mares approaching the display window with wide smiles on their faces. Then a unicorn mare entered the boutique and smiled at seeing the Princess Dress. Rarity and Mario smiled as the mare tried on the Princess Dress and looked at herself in the mirror as she twirled about happily. The mare was later seen holding a pink parasol as she wore the dress and three stallions tried to court her. Rarity and Mario watched the scene from the workroom window as Rarity sang a long note and they both got back to work.]
My favorite moment's when a pony sees it
That special gown that she just adores
That pony's now in style
My hard work's all worthwhile
Oh, yes, it makes my heart
My heart just soar
As some instrumental is played in the background, Sassy entered the workroom as she showed more of her business plan to Rarity and Mario with a straight face. It was then some customers entered the boutique. Rarity and Mario smiled and went to go greet when Sassy shoved some crafting materials into their faces and snootily waves a fore-hoof at them to keep working. Mario opened his mouth to protest but Rarity raised a fore-hoof to his mouth and gave him a smile to let Sassy handle the customers. Mario rolled his eyes and conceded. But then Rarity saw Sassy remove all the dresses from their collection except for the Princess Dress. Mario and Rarity both felt rather hurt as Mario raised a fore-hoof to question Rarity's decision to let Sassy handle the customers. Rarity couldn't look at Mario and walked away. Mario shifted looks between Rarity and Sassy before he just sighed. The two ponies went back to work.
[Rarity - She was now singing sadly as she and Mario continued sewing together as several Princess Dresses were completed. Everypony was seen outside the boutique and were very happy. But Rarity and Mario looked out their window and the former shrieked and sank under the window. While no sound could be heard, Mario winced painfully since he had been right next to Rarity when she screamed.]
The rules of Rarity, just a parody
No dress here's unique
The panels all the same
Each colored windowpane
I fashion only makes me want to shriek!
[Rarity - As she sang, She and Mario were sitting together sadly in the workroom as the sun began to rise outside. It was then the sunlight shined on three bowls filled with colorful, glittery gems and they both noticed the gems shining against the skirt of the Princess Dress. They were both stunned and they shared looks with each other. Then they smiled excitedly as they tossed the gems into the air.]
Oh, to create would give us elation
To feel once again some inspiration
Come on now, Rarity
Give me some clarity
Time for your couture love to rule
"And despite not singing your name, I also mean you as well, darling," said Rarity to Mario.
"I know," said Mario with a smile.
[Rarity - She and Mario got to work stitching gems into the light blue fabric as they created a newer version of the dress.]
The rules of Rarity, extra TLC
This feels more sublime
Soon now, they will see how good these can be
With a little extra shine
[Rarity - Mario then set the "improved" dress in the middle of the workroom. Rarity then began dancing with it as she sang. Then Rarity looked at the ceiling as she finished singing and the dress shining brightly from the sunlight.]
The rules of Rarity, guaranteed quality
All can see it's true
These new gems add such flair
Their beauty can't compare
This old style suddenly gleams anew
A bell then rang as a mare entered the shop. Rarity and Mario smiled when they noticed the mare talking to Sassy about her order.
"Is that the customer who ordered this Princess Dress?" Rarity asked as the mare impatiently looked at her pocket watch.
"I'll take care of her," said Sassy bluntly, "You keep working."
"Uh, actually, We'd love to see her reaction to this particular dress," said Rarity.
"We've been working for a while and could use a stretch of the hooves anyway," Mario added.
"Paisley and poplin, Rarity and Mario," said Sassy indignantly as she pointed to two stacks of papers. One stack showed how many orders still needed to be completed, "look at all the orders you still have to finish, and you want to take a break? Now?"
"We can't keep working nonstop from sunrise to sunset, Sassy," Mario retorted as Sassy started walking away, "plus we would like to be able to mingle with our customers from time to time!"
"Mario is right about that," said Rarity, "and...well, it's just we made some really lovely changes to this dress-"
"You did what?!" said Sassy as she got into Rarity's face, "But every Princess Dress is supposed to be exactly the same!"
"Says who?" said Mario indignantly, "As far as Rarity and I are concerned, version 1.0 has run its course, it's time to start promoting version 2.0. The improved Princess Dress design!"
"These orders are still for, as you called it, version 1.0!" Sassy shot back as the two stared each other down.
"Yes yes I know," said Rarity and getting their attention, "but these gems just spoke to me, and-"
"Fine," Sassy remarked, cutting off Rarity, and snootily holding up a fore-hoof, "Go see her reaction." Mario took offense as Rarity rushed out of the workroom and removed her work glasses.
"You better tone the attitude, Sassy," said Mario sternly, "Keep in mind who's the owner and who's the manager around here. We make the final decisions around here." Mario then stomped away to catch up with Rarity.
"Yes, sir," said Sassy, and rolled her eyes.
"Hello, and welcome to Canterlot Carousel!" said Rarity.
"We hear you've arrived to pick up your order," said Mario.
"We are so pleased to present to you your-" said Rarity.
"Princess Dress!" said the mare, whose name was Cayenne, as she grabbed it with her magic, "Finally! I've been simply desperate to get this ever since I saw Princess Twilight wearing it on your-...Wait a minute. There's something different."
"Well, as artistes," said Rarity, "we did take the liberty to change a few minor details."
"We feel the original dress is on its way out," said Mario, "So this dress will keep you ahead of the upcoming fashion trends." Cayenne just gave them both a long face, which made both Rarity and Mario feel a little uncomfortable.
"I, eheh, I mean...we saw these gems glistening in the light," Rarity explained further, "and they just spoke to us. Aren't they lovely? And so unique!"
"You'll definitely stand out as the belle of the ball in it," Mario added. Cayenne just sighed with a huff.
"They're...fine," Cayenne replied annoyingly, "but they're not what I ordered, are they?"
"...no?" Mario said sheepishly.
"Uh, no. No, they're not," said Rarity in a similar tone. The mare then showed a magazine that had Twilight on the front cover wearing the dress.
"Hey! Why am I missing?" Mario asked when he noticed he had been edited out of the picture.
"I want the dress to be exactly like the one Princess Twilight wore," Cayenne said angrily, "understood?"
"Yes...Y-yes, of course," said Rarity, "Come on, Mario." Mario sighed as the two ponies headed sadly to the workroom. Sassy just watched them walk by quietly.
"Not. A. Word!" Mario warned to Sassy before he angrily slammed the door shut. Mario snorted as they headed back to their sewing machines.
"I hate sameness fashion trends," said Mario angrily, "they're always about looking exactly the same! They make standing out a crime against fashion! And it reminds me of why ponies loved to poke fun of me growing up!"
"I know, darling," said Rarity in a sad but sympathetic tone as she tossed the dress into a bin set aside for rejected ideas and excess materials, "I know." As some order forms were moved from the incomplete to completed pile. Rarity began to reprise her song in a sad tone.
[Rarity - By now, Mario and Rarity were just doing their work with glum and lifeless looking faces. Rarity was eventually just sitting in one spot as Mario moved one dress after another like an assembly line as Rarity added the final touches to each dress. Even Mario looked rather bored as he went to collect more of the same materials with his freight cars. Outside the work space, Sassy had set up a quick change curtain so each mare could quickly put on their Princess Dress. While the customers were very happy, Rarity and Mario were just watching them with tears in their eyes and shut the door to the work room.]
The rules of Rarity
Once stood for something
But now it feels just like some factory
Now every dress we make
With every flaw and mistake
Oh, how it makes our hearts
Ours hearts just break
One day, Rarity was just working at her sewing machine with a very stern look on her face. Her mane and tail were slightly frazzled. Mario then arrived with another delivery with his mane and tail in no better condition. He bucked the freight cars to hard into the buffers that the supplies inside fell out all over the floor.
"Sorry," said Mario bluntly as he walked by Rarity.
"Oh forget it darling," Rarity replied in the same tone, not caring that the materials were on the floor. She then used her magic to hang up another completed dress and moved another order form to the completed pile.
"Raving rick-rack, Rarity and Mario!" said Sassy as she rushed into the work room and shoved the clipboard into Rarity's face, "You've made two hundred Princess Dresses!" Rarity and Mario just looked at the unicorn lifelessly.
"Yes," Rarity replied in a deadpan tone, "Isn't it spectacular?"
"Yes. It's lovely," said Mario in a similar tone.
"And I have a special surprise for you both!" said Sassy as she showed Rarity and Mario a magazine, "The latest issue of Cosmare magazine just hit the stands." Rarity and Mario noticed the front cover had the headshots of Rarity as well as Mario.
"Look," said Mario depressingly, "They actually put me on the cover with you."
""Canterlot's newest rising stars"?" Rarity read aloud in a tired tone.
"And in the hour since the magazine's come out," Sassy added, "we've gotten another hundred orders for the Princess Dress!" Sassy then dumped the order forms into the incomplete box. Mario and Rarity looked at the forms with weary faces.
"One...hundred more...Princess Dresses?!" said Rarity.
"Well, at least I was able to help you achieve your dream," said Mario in a rather sad and dreary tone.
"We're the Cosmare cover ponies," said Rarity as she slumped over her stool, "We have the most successful shop in Canterlot...I've gotten everything I ever wanted. We're sharing the success together..." Mario slowly walked up to Rarity.
"Then...why do I wanna just curl up into a corner and cry?" Mario asked softly. Rarity sighed as she pulled Mario in for a hug.
"I feel just the same way," said Rarity, "we're a success, but we're miserable!" Sassy gave a short but haughty laugh.
"How could you two possibly be miserable?" Sassy remarked as she showed her plan and stuck a pin into a picture of Rarity, and just Rarity, on a magazine, "My pattern is perfect! Cosmare Cover Pony - done! You have your signature gown, the Princess Dress of Success!" Rarity and Mario both shook their heads with the former resting her face in her fore-hooves.
"I don't want to make another hundred Princess Dresses!" Rarity protested.
"Me neither!" Mario whined, "we're ponies, not machines!"
"I have a piece for that!" Sassy remarked, "Assemble the Assembly Line! You two will never have to sew again!" Mario and Rarity were deeply shocked.
"You can't be serious!" Mario exclaimed.
"What?! No!" Rarity exclaimed as well.
"Yes!" said Sassy as she grabbed two Princess Dresses with her magic, "Then the Canterlot Carousel never closes! And Sassy Saddles' boutique succeeds!"
"Stop!" Rarity and Mario snapped. They were both furious and had had enough of Sassy's master plan. They only needed to exchange quick looks with each other before speaking to the unicorn mare.
"This is not your boutique!" Rarity said angrily as she stomped up to Sassy, grabbed the Princess Dresses, and threw them to the floor.
"And we're not going to let you turn our boutique into a factory!" Mario added fiercely, bucking another freight car with materials for the very dresses from behind and knocking it over.
"And if this is what success in Canterlot looks like," Rarity continued, "I want no part of it! Now go make up flyers for a going-out-of-business sale!"
"We're closing Canterlot Carousel!" Mario and Rarity said firmly.
"What?! No!" Sassy protested, "Oh, you can't, Rarity and Mario! I-I've worked too hard to make this a success! I can't be a part of another failed boutique!"
"Well, if this is how you managed them, it's no wonder they all failed!" Mario yelled as Rarity angrily slammed the door to the work room with Sassy still inside. Rarity then sternly walked about the area, collecting all the Princess Dresses from the mannequins. Mario then set up the rest of the other dresses on mannequins and hanging racks that he and Rarity had been working on so they could be sold to the other mares.
"Oh, don't you look lovely?" said Rarity to a nearby dress, "Nice to see you out here again."
"Hope you're all ready for your debut here in Canterlot," said Mario when Rarity walked up to him.
"I'm so sorry about all of this," said Rarity sadly.
"Rares, it's okay," said Mario.
"I'll pay you back for..." Rarity found herself cut off when Mario put a fore-hoof to her lips.
"Rares, I knew the risk when I gave you those bits," said Mario, "I didn't want you to pay me back or was I expecting you too. I just wanted to help you achieve your dream. I learned from the best about being generous and it was my way of saying thank you for helping me see that being a designer was a talent I could be proud of." Rarity felt tears stream down her cheeks before she hugged him happily.
"Thank you for being so supportive through all of this," said Rarity.
"Anytime, Twinsie," said Mario, "We'll take what happened as a learning experience and when you're ready. We'll try again." Rarity pulled away and nodded in agreement as they went to go open the boutique. Sassy had just been watching them from above with a worried look as all the Princess Dresses were removed and replaced with the other designs. She soon glared when she saw Rarity and Mario talking to the outfits and when they had their touching moment. From a business perspective, she had considered the idea of Mario just giving away free funds as foolish. Her attitude soon melted away when she saw Mario and Rarity look up at her. Sassy felt rather uncomfortable being noticed and looked sadly away.
"Seems Sassy Saddles isn't rushing to open the door this time, hmm," Rarity remarked in a hushed tone to Mario.
"Fine by me," said Mario in the same tone, "This is your show now."
"No, darling," said Rarity, "It's our show." Mario smiled as they opened the front door together.
"Welcome to the going-out-of-business sale of Canterlot Carousel," Rarity announced to the crowd.
"Please come in and check out our personally made couture!" Mario added as he stepped aside just as the mares came charging inside the shop, "That was close!" The two ponies then looked inside and were amazed at how crowded the boutique was. Even Sassy, who remained upstairs, was rather impressed.
"Hey, is this Princess Dress on sale?" a mare named Pretzel asked.
"Oh, no, I'm sorry, the Princess Dress has been discontinued," Rarity answered, "But there are plenty of other lovely dresses on sale today."
"Allow me to escort you to the dress of your dreams," said Mario in a chivalrous manner. Pretzel giggled.
"I wasn't expecting to get an escort from a Prince when I came shopping today," Pretzel said excitedly as she followed Mario to another part of the store. Rarity just smiled as she watched them walk off. It was then another mare named Moonlight Raven noticed the dress inspired by Luna.
"Whoa," said Moonlight Raven in a flat tone, "This dress completely speaks to my soul. Can I try it on?"
"Certainly," Rarity replied, "The dressing area is right back there." She then noticed another mare, named Sunshine Smiles just looking around when Mario approached.
"May I be of service?" Mario asked politely. Sunshine Smiles giggled excitedly since she was ecstatic about speaking to a prince.
"I'm looking for a dress that is just as bright and sunny as I am," said Sunshine Smile in a hyper tone, "Can you recommend a dress for me, handsome?" Mario chuckled.
"I think I've got something in mind," said Mario, "Follow me!" Sunshine Smiles giggled as Mario guided her to the dress inspired by Celestia.
"Many ponies know that Celestia raised me," said Mario as the mare gasped excitedly at the dress, "So this dress is very close to my heart. My hope is that the mare who wears it would shine as brightly as Celestia." Sunshine Smiles bounced on her hooves giddily.
"This is the most amazing of amazing dresses!" said Sunshine Smiles excitedly, "Just looking at it brightens my day!"
"And I'm sure you'll feel even brighter once you try it on!" said Rarity.
"Dressing room is right over there," said Mario as Sunshine Smiles excitedly grabbed the dress to try it on. It was then another mare named North Point appeared.
"Do you still have this In-spire-ation dress that's in the new issue of Cosmare?" North Point asked.
"Oh, yes, we do," said Rarity, "It's - It's right here." She and Mario then led the mare to the dress.
"Bats in the belfry!" said North Point, "I have to try it on!" Rarity and Mario exchanged smiles with each other. It was then Moonlight Raven was looking at herself in the mirror while wearing the dress inspired by Luna.
"Whoa," Moonlight Raven said flatly, "this dress makes me feel like a princess."
"And this dress makes me feel like a princess!" said Sunshine Smiles excitedly as she pushed Moonlight Raven aside a bit. Sassy just watched Rarity and Mario interact with the customers. She was inwardly kicking herself for not considering that Mario's princely charm would increase customers satisfaction. She watched as Mario was just being his usual self, which was all he needed to do to get most girls feeling giddy and happy. He even took some pictures with some of the mares who were wearing their new dresses. Then Rarity noticed a mare named Citrus Blush noticed another one of their dresses.
"This gown is quite beautiful," said Citrus Blush to Rarity and Mario, "but it totally clashes with my complexion."
"Hmmm," Rarity pondered as Mario tapped his chin with a fore-hoof and then a little light bulb appeared over his head.
"Rares, what if..." Mario whispered his suggestion as Rarity nodded and Mario hopped away. Rarity addressed the mare.
"Perhaps you'd be even more taken with this one," said Rarity as she opened the door and Mario used his magic to set up the mannequin with the dress Pinkie had asked about days ago, "It was inspired by the Canterlot Castle garden. I call it the "Fountain of Truth"!"
"It's exactly what I've been dreaming of!" said Citrus Blush happily.
"Oh! Well, then Mario and I will finish it, and the gown shall be yours!" Rarity replied as the mare trotted over to Mario as he wrote down her name and placed the tag on the front of the dress to show it was now in reserve for her. Then Rarity put the dress back into the workroom.
"Mario, do you see what I'm seeing?" Rarity asked him excitedly.
"Happy mares who are getting the dress of their dreams," said Mario, "it's...the reason why we launched the Canterlot Carousel in the first place."
"Precisely," said Rarity, "This is what I've been dreaming about!" Rarity and Mario walked side by side as the former began to sing.
[Rarity - She and Mario saw Moonlight Raven smile while wearing her new dress. Rarity then ushered a mare into the dressing room and they came out wearing a powder blue dress that shines, making the mar every happy.]
My favorite moment's when a pony sees it
That special gown that she just adores
That pony's now in style
Our hard works all worthwhile
[Rarity and Mario]
Oh, yes, it make our heart
Our heart just soar!
Mario and Rarity paused impressively before they huddled up and exchanged whispers with each other. Then they pulled away and gave each other a firm nod.
"Attention, everypony!" said Rarity to the customers.
"Rarity and I have an important announcement to make," said Mario, "Your happy smiles with our collection have motivated us to make a very big decision!"
"Canterlot Carousel will not be closing!" Rarity said happily. The crowd cheered.
"But this stuff's still on sale, right?" Moonlight Raven asked. Mario chuckled and Rarity giggled.
"Yes, yes, of course," said Rarity.
"Maybe we can consider doing these sales right between fashion seasons," said Mario, "during those days, customers who purchase a dress can bring their camera and get a picture with the Prince for free!" The crowds cheered and many mare squeed excitedly.
"I think we can work something out," said Rarity, "You are quite the charmer, Prince Mario Star." Mario blushed, making some of the girls giggled and cooed at how cute he looked with colored cheeks. It was then Sassy came down the stairs.
"Oh, Rarity, Mario," said Sassy sadly, "I'm so sorry. I focused on that one dress, and the rest of Rarity's Royal Regalia paid the price."
"Well, so did the Princess Dress," said Rarity, "The more we sold, the more each dress lost its time, love, and couture, becoming terrible, lackluster, and common."
"And it made us lose sight of why we love to be designers," said Mario, "We spent so much time working on just one dress that our ability and desire to create and be artistic was lost." Rarity nodded in agreement.
"That wouldn't have happened if I hadn't tried to take over like I did," said Sassy, "I thought I had learned my lesson after a similar situation happened back when Mario and I were in school. I nearly made us fail our assignment. Mario was right. I'm the manager and you both are the owners. I should've considered what your goals were as well and not tried to push you both to the limit trying to make all those dresses."
"It's okay, Sassy," said Mario, "Just remember that true success only comes when we all share the same goals. As you can see, your plan only considered yourself and not us. You saw the consequences because of that mindset. Now you've seen what we wanted to achieve here at Canterlot Carousel." Sassy nodded in agreement.
"I think I finally understand the Rules of Rarity," said Sassy and then walked away, "...and will apply them at my next job." Mario and Rarity blinked.
"I beg your pardon?" they said at once and making Sassy stop and look at them.
"The Rules of Rarity are only to be applied at Canterlot Carousel!" said Rarity.
"They are also copyrighted," Mario added.
"Oh, Mario stop..." Rarity then froze when she saw a written document of her rules with a copyright seal, "you...really did copyright them?!"
"After the incident with Suri," said Mario, "I filed some copyrights to our handmade materials, designs, and work policies to make sure nopony could steal or copy our ideas ever again." Rarity just blinked.
"Getting back on track," said Rarity once she recovered her train of thought, "You are needed here. Which is why you must continue to manage the boutique while we're in Ponyville."
"Ponyville?" Sassy exclaimed.
"Well, yes, I'll come alone or Mario will come with me to Canterlot with new designs and talk to the customers of course," Rarity answered, "but Ponyville was always going to be our home base."
"Ponyville is our home after all," Mario added as a matter of fact before adding with smirk, "and we do believe that if a pony learns their lesson that they deserve a second chance."
"Bobbins and bodkins, Rarity and Mario!" said Sassy excitedly as she hugged them both, "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you! And I promise to run everything following your rules."
"We know you will," said Mario.
"I would expect nothing less," said Rarity as she and Mario smiled.
"Oh, my gosh, a sale!" said a mare named Whoa Nelly as she trotted giddily into the boutique, "Do you have the Princess Dress?!"
"No!" said Rarity, Sassy, and Mario together before the three ponies laughed. Whoa Nelly just gave them a funny look before she began to browse about the shop. Mario and Rarity couldn't help but share another hug together and smiled happily. What had started that day as the end of a dream turned out to be exactly what Mario and Rarity needed to revive it. Mario was happy that Rarity got her dream of a successful boutique in Canterlot.
And she got to have success her way.
Correction, Mario and Rarity got to have success their way.
That finishes another chapter. I bet none of you expected Mario to have known Sassy Saddles. As Mario mentioned in the chapter, he and Sassy might have worked together, but they certainly clashed a bit with Sassy's controlling nature, especially since Mario wasn't very assertive during his business school years. Hopefully you've noticed in recent seasons that Mario has learned to be more assertive, even if it seems nopony listens...at least not initially...
If you enjoy watching Mario and Rarity work together, you'll get more of their teamwork in the next chapter as well!
Next time, we get the return of Detective Mario and his new fashion savvy partner in crime! Can they work together to solve the case I am going to dub: Turnabout Wonderbolt?
Peace Pony Fans!