//------------------------------// // Amending Fences // Story: Flash Sentry, Defender of the Peace S1 // by Banshee531 //------------------------------// We begin this page of our story not in Ponyville. No, today we are on the open road, or train-tracks as the Equestrian Express roared down the line. Inside the train were four certain beings on their way to Canterlot. Flash, Twilight, Spike and Springer were sitting in the end carriage, enjoying the clickety-clack of the wheels. "Are we there yet?" Springer asked excitedly, grinning at his first train ride. "Soon bud," Flash replied with a chuckle, "another hour or so and we'll be there." "Great idea coming back to Canterlot for the weekend," Twilight told Flash as she flipped through a book. “Feels like its been forever.” "Well, I figured since the whole move to Ponyville was so sudden, we never really got to say good bye to the city." "Yeah, plus there are a few things at our place we can grab." Spike said, remembering some things he wanted to get from their old home. "I'm just looking forward to seeing my parents again," Twilight grinned, "maybe Shining will be there too." "I'm sure he will. You did send them a letter, telling them we were coming, right?" "Of course," Twilight nodded, "and you sent Grand Hoof a letter?" "You bet," Flash replied as he scratched Springer's ear, who yipped happily at the display of affection. "I can't wait to tell him about all the adventures we've had since moving." "It has been a pretty incredible experience." They continued talking about this until an hour later, when the overhead rung and said Canterlot was coming up. The four looked at each other, grinning as they knew what was going to happen next. "That's us," Flash said as they got up and collected their bags. The train soon came to a sudden yet gentle stop, before letting off steam and opening it's doors for the passengers to step out. As they did, Springer's eyes shined at the sight before him as he rode on Flash's back. "Wow!" Springer exclaimed as he looked around at the station, "so this is the big city! It's huge!" "It gets bigger when we're out of the station," Flash stated as he looked at his partner with a slight glare, "just make sure you stay on my back. I don't wanna be running around this giant place because you wondered off and got lost. Trust me buddy, this place is huge and a maze." "I know I know," Springer groaned, crossing his arms. "So, should we head back to the house or grab something to eat first?" Spike asked them as he grabbed the last bag and joined them. "My parents are supposed to be meeting us here," Twilight said, surprised her family wasn't here yet. "Twily!" a familiar voice caught their attention and made them look around. There stood two unicorns, a stallion and a mare, one being blue with a darker blue mane and tail with two crescent moons for his cutie mark. The mare was light gray in colour with a white and purple mane and tail with three stars for her cutie mark. "Mom! Dad!" Twilight called as she rushed over to them and hugged her mother, Twilight Velvet. It wasn't long til she moved over and hugged her father, Night Light as well. "It's good to see you Twily," Night chuckled as they pulled away and turned to Flash, who Velvet was hugging. "Both of you." "Same," Flash replied with a smile before turning to show the jakhowl on his back. "Let me introduce you two to my partner. This here is Springer, he's something called a jakhowl." "Oh! Isn't he adorable Night Light?" Twilight's mother moved over to him as he held up his hand and closed his eyes before his ears flared up for a moment. When he was done, he opened his eyes and smiled as Twilight Velvet scratched his ears. "What was that?" Night Light asked. "Springer was reading you aura," Twilight explained, "its how he knows if somepony is trustworthy." "Huh. Good to know," Night Light replied as Springer read his aura before letting him pet the jakhowl. "Well, let's get you all home," Velvet said, hugging Spike now. "You lot must be exhausted after your long train ride." The four ponies, dragon and jakhowl left the station and began their trip to the Sparkle household. Springer was in awe at the city, looking around at every building and crosswalk. He also found himself very intrigued by the massive amount of ponies walking around them constantly, an amount that didn't even compare to the small town of Ponyville. "So, how are things in Ponyville?" Night Light asked as they walked, "It must feel quite different after spending your whole life in Canterlot.” "It's amazing," Twilight exclaimed as she started thinking about her library home, "I'll always have Canterlot as a part of myself, but Ponyville is an incredible little town. Its nothing like Canterlot and yet its so nice. Everypony is so nice and everypony gets along so well." "And everypony there is so different compared to the noble snobs of Canterlot." Flash remarked, causing the parents to chuckle. "Its not as exhausting to live there." "Sounds nice," Velvet replied, a smile shining on her face. "Maybe we should visit some time." "Sounds great, I know you'll love our friends." The two older ponies smiled, glad to here Twilight was making friends. "It's nice to hear you say that," Night Light chuckled, "I remember when you didn't have any friends except Flash. I still can't believe you were able to become friends with him back then." "I had friends," Twilight barked back. “I had plenty of friends!” "Not really," Flash agreed with Night, "I'd say they were more along the lines of acquaintances than anything else." "Yeah," Spike continued with a nod, "can you even remember their names?" "Of course I can," Twilight said as she thought for a moment, "there's...Twinkle Hearts, Lemon Shine, Moon Strings and Lyra Heartdancer." "Wah wah," Flash laughed, trying to imitate a wrong buzzer sound. "Nope. Not quite there Twilight, and you even missed out Minuette." "Oh," Twilight replied, looking embarrassed. "It's okay sweetheart," Velvet said as she put a hoof on her daughter's shoulder. "You've got plenty of time this weekend to catch up with them," Night agreed as he patted her on the head. “I wouldn't worry about it Twilight.” "Yeah, that's a great idea." Twilight nodded as they continued on until they finally reached an all too familiar street. In the center of the street was a large house, cream in colour with a large spruce wood door and red roof. "Man, it's good to be back," Flash grinned as he looked over his old home. It made him realise just how good it was compared to his old treehouse on the streets. "I cleaned out your old rooms but I made sure not to change a thing," Velvet said as she opened the main door, "why don't you all go put your things up while we get some tea made." "Sure mom," Twilight nodded as everyone rushed upstairs, happy to be back in their old house. Flash and Springer walked into Flash's old room, which he had inherited from Shining Armor when he finally moved out. It was a plain simple orange coloured room with Flash's cutie mark painted around the border. There wasn't much inside except a bed and a chest with framed pictures on it. "Wow," Springer said looking around and then at the pictures. "Is this you?" He pointed to a certain picture which had a younger Flash and Twilight in it. "Yeah, that's actually the first picture that was ever taken of me." "Cool," Springer replied as continued to look around, seeing multiple pictures of Flash, along with ponies the jakhowl had never seen. There was one of Flash and a gray earth pony together in training gear, while another had Flash with a pink alicorn. He looked at several others until he came across one that made him giggle, "What the-what are you wearing in this picture?" Flash looked over at the picture Springer pointed to and rolled his eyes. In it, Flash was on a stage with Twilight and some other young ponies, each dress in oddly coloured clothing. Flash had a black and white stripped costume, covering everything but his head with a matching hat and red nose. "Oh that old thing? That was taken during the first Fantasia Parade." "The what?" "It's part of the Fantasia Festival," Flash continued as he grabbed the picture and continued to chuckle at the memories. "Every year after the Grand Galloping Gala, Canterlot throws a large fair. There's games, shows and at the end of the day, just after the sun sets, we have a massive parade where everypony dresses up and plays around." "Wow," Springer said, his face beaming. "That sounds awesome." "It is," Flash replied before smirking, "I don't like to brag, but the Fantasia Festival was pretty much my idea." "Really?" "Yeah," Flash nodded as he put the frame down, "for several days after the time I went to the Gala, I moaned about how boring it was and that there should be something fun to do after. Princess Celestia heard about it and agreed. So, the following year, the very first Fantasia Festival took place. Me and Twilight performed in the parade and it was such a success that there's been one every year since." "Wow. Can we go?" "Sure," Flash nodded again as he placed his final bag down, "we're coming here for the Gala, so staying another two days shouldn't hurt." "Yay!" Springer cheered. The two then headed back downstairs where everypony was waiting. Flash and Springer soon found themselves with a new cup of tea. Flash had to warn Velvet that Springer liked tea a little too much, so she decided to get another pot going. "Man, I've missed this stuff," Twilight said as she sipped her mother's tea. "Glad you enjoy it sweetheart," Velvet remarked with a cheeky grin. “Its my own recipe after all.” "So, what's the plan for the weekend?" Night asked. "Well, I'm hoping to go see Grand at some point," Flash answered as he looked at Springer, "its new recruit season and he might need a little help. That and I would like him to meet Springer." "Well, why don't you head out and see?" Velvet said with another sip, "there's plenty of time left and you can invite him for dinner if he can make it." "Sure," Flash agreed before turning to Twilight, "what are you planning Twi?" "I think I might try and find my old 'friends'," she replied with a sad tone, "You were right Flash. I never really spent much time with them before now. Heck, I barely spent time with them in magic kindergarten." "Well, I'm sure they'll love seeing you again," Velvet said, trying to cheer her up. "I hope so.” With that, they finished their tea and headed out. Or at least, they tried to, since Springer kept drinking more and more tea. After some time, they quickly split up as Springer hopped onto Flash's back while Spike gave Flash a small salute. Flash chuckled and said, "Well, I'm heading to the castle. I'll see you all later." "And I'll head to Minuette's place," Twilight nodded, "you sure you know the way Spike?" "I got this," Spike remarked before walking off with her. Flash and Springer traversed the town on their way to the palace, Springer still in awe at the size of the city. After taking an old short cut Flash knew that was through the park, they finally made it back to the gigantic castle. However, when Flash walked up to the castle gates, two unicorn guards noticed him and frowned before levitating their spears into a cross. "Halt!" one yelled, "what is your business here?" Flash gave them a confused look, before he realised he didn't know these guards so they must have been new. "Relax," he told them, "I'm Flash Sentry." "Never heard of ya," the other one said, "get lost." Flash frowned, "I have level four clearance. I'm Grand Hoof's apprentice." "Do you have anything to confirm this?" the first asked, levitating the spear a bit closer to the young pony. "Well no," Flash said. In all honesty, he did have an access card he was meant to use to gain entry. However, in the years since he'd got it, he'd barely had to use it and eventually stop carrying it due to the fact that everypony in the castle knew him. "Then we're going to have to ask you to leave," the second growled as his spear also got closer, "or we'll be forced to arrest you." "What's the commotion over here!?" Everypony turned to see a certain white unicorn in purple and gold armour approach them. "Captain!" both ponies yelled as they stood to attention, "this hoodlum was trying to gain entry to the castle." The pony looked over at Flash and his eyes went wide before he smirked. "Can't seem to stay out of trouble, can you?" "It's a gift," Flash said cockily before grinning, "long time no see Shining." "Indeed," Shining replied while shaking his head before turning to the guards. "Stand down you two. He has level four clearance." "Told you," Flash cooed before trotting passed them. The two stallions then started walking through the grounds, Springer once again marvelling at the sights. Shining was intrigued by Flash's partner, who did a quick aura check before finally agreeing to be friendly with the unicorn. "Thanks for the help back there Shining," Flash said as they continued their way to the training grounds. "It's cool," the guard captain replied, "just remember your pass next time. It wasn't a problem with you practically being here everyday before, but the new guards haven't seen you around and are super eager to prove themselves by bringing in perps." "I noticed.” "So, how's Twily?” "Good," he replied as he shook his head, still remembering how much Shining worries about his little sister. "she's trying to reconnect with the 'friends' she had back when we lived here." "Bet that would be fun to watch.” "No kidding. So, what about Grand Hoof?" Flash asked, "I know he's probably busy with the new guards and everything, but I was thinking of meeting with him today." "Yeah, he's busy with the new wimps, but he's doing fine," Shining said before frowning, "though there has been something else I've noticed." "What is it?" "Over the last few days, Grand Hoof and the princesses have been having several secret meetings of some sort." "Really? What about?" "Not sure," Shining replied with a shake of his head, "but the odd thing is, it involves all the princesses." "Wait a minute, does that mean Cadance is back in town?" Cadance, Flash and Twilight's old foal sitter, had been studying in Baltimare over the last year. He knew that Shining would especially like this, as he knew the two had been dating for some time despite Twilight never figuring it out. "She just got back a few days ago," Shining said with a grin he tried to hide, "she was hoping to surprise you and Twilight at dinner tonight." "Okay," Flash replied, "but I wonder what Grand Hoof would need to talk to all three princesses about?" "Not sure bro. Royal Knight stuff I'm guessing. Not my place to ask." "Yeah," Flash nodded in agreement, "guess you're right." They finally reached the training ground, which looked exactly how Flash remembered it. Many different guards were scattered around, doing their training. In the center of the area was the gray earth pony Flash knew so well while Springer recognised him from the pictures in Flash's room. "Grand Hoof!" he called out as he rushed towards him. Grand Hoof turned and smiled, seeing his apprentice. "Well, look what the cat dragged in." Once Flash was there, the two shared a quick hug before pulling away, "it's good to see you kid." "Same," Flash replied. "Enjoying being back in the big city?" "It's fun and all," Flash laughed as he felt the sting of Grand Hoof's usual pat on the head, "but I think I prefer the gentle chaos of Ponyville." "I can understand that. I'd love to go somewhere that doesn't involve being surrounded by pansies that can't even put on their armour correctly. Ugh...I so need a vacation." Grand Hoof was then introduced to Springer, who liked the older pony's aura. The three of them continued to watch the new guards do their training, talking about old times of good old boot camp. Flash's mind flashed several memories, remembering the yelling commands of Grand Hoof, the endless obstacle courses and the constant sword sessions against the old stallion. "So Grand," Flash said as he leaned over to his old mentor, "Shining said you and the princesses have been talking in secret about something." He saw his mentor visibly sweat at this, causing Flash to sheepishly grin. "What's that all about?" "Nothing important, we're just fine tuning a little something." "Fine tuning what?" "You'll see it when it's ready," Grand grumbled as he glared at his old student. "Now, why don't you two head into the castle? I know without a doubt that Shining told you that Princess Cadance is back and I'm sure you'll want to say hello to her." "If you say so," Flash shrugged before he and Springer left the training grounds. He turned to his partner with an expectant look. "So? Was he telling the truth?" "He's hiding something," the jakhowl remarked with a curious face, "but nothing of malice." "Then why wouldn't he tell me?" "I...don't know?" Springer shrugged. “Also, you forgot to ask him about dinner.” “Oh yeah, that's right...we'll do that later then. Let's see if we can find Cadance first." The two headed inside and traversed the castle, Flash trying to remember the way inside the maze of a castle. They made their way through the gardens, three of the kitchens and the armoury, but still found nothing. That was until Flash's highly tuned ears picked up on a beautiful humming, which he followed all the way to the library. Pushing the doors open, Flash was greeted with the sight of the youngest of the alicorn princesses, who was humming a pretty tune as she read a book. Flash shut the door, causing Cadance to break out of her reading trance before realising it was Flash. She quickly got up and as she approached him, Flash bowed. "Princess," he said seriously as Springer was surprised at the sudden action. "Rise young Sentry," she replied as he got up. They stared at each other for a moment before both cracking a smile and beginning to laugh. "That never gets old," she cheered as she rushed over and pulled him into a hug. "It's good to see you Cadance." "And you too," the pink alicorn replied as she broke the hug, "so much has happened. I heard that a certain somepony helped save Equestria after all." "I wasn't the only one," Flash said sheepishly. "Well, I hope I get to hear all about it tonight at dinner," Cadance remarked as she patted his shoulder, "so, how are things? How's Twilight?" "Good," Flash nodded, "everything's good." "Great," Cadance said before noticing Springer. A squeal soon followed as she approached the jakhowl. "Oh! Who's this cute little guy?!" "This is Springer," Flash chuckled as his partner read Cadance's aura, "my partner." "Oh, aren't you the cutest little thing," Cadance squealed as she began scratching his ear. Springer just blushed while releasing his tongue from his mouth. Once she was finished playing with the jakhowl, Cadance and Flash conversed, happy to finally meet again. They spoke about many things, Baltimare, Ponyville, Shining Armor and whatever else caught there fancy. "And then when I got back, I found all three of them with their faces covered in the weird mud," Flash chuckled with a cheeky smile. “Me and Springer thought we walked into a horror novel!” "Bet you were glad you got stuck in the town hall for most of the night." Cadance said with a smirk. "Tell me about it," Flash said with a roll of the eyes, "I don't want to know the horrors that go on during a girl's slumber party if it involves that. I'm so glad me and Springer had poker night with Big Mac and Cranky. Gotta say, Cranky can not keep a good poker face." The two laughed at this, only for it to be suddenly cut off by the sound of the library doors opening. "I finally found you Cadenza," they both turned to see somepony step into the room and Flash's eyes went wide. The entering pony was an alicorn with dark blur fur and a flowing mane and tail that looked like the night sky. Flash's heart almost shot out of his chest when he saw her as his memory returned to a night not too long ago when he had fought this mare. But as soon as he felt this, he felt his heart slow down as he realised this wasn't the same pony from before. "Hello Luna," Cadance nodded as she tapped Flash's shoulder, "you know Flash Sentry, I believe." "Indeed," Luna replied, "We came to tell you that my sister requires you right now for that important task." "Oh!" Cadance said in shock, "it's that time already?" She turned back to the pegasus, "sorry Flash, but this is important. I'll see you later at dinner?" "Sure," Flash nodded as Cadance soon rushed out of the room, leaving Flash and Luna alone. The two ponies remained in an awkward silence for a few moments, until Springer finally broke the tension by jumping onto Luna's back and smiling up at her. The dark alicorn grinned seeing him. "Hello little one," she said in a low, sad tone. "I'd always hoped I'd see a jakhowl again." "Guess I'm just lucky to be partnered with one." "Indeed you are," Luna replied before frowning at the young stallion, "Say, um...Flash Sentry? I'm sorry. I never did apologise to you." "For what?" "Have you forgotten how our last meeting went?" Luna asked. "Well no," Flash shrugged, "but it worked out okay." "I almost destroyed you." "I try to not hold grudges," Flash replied with a shake of the head. "Well, for that, I am grateful," Luna then turned to the door, "will you walk with me?" "Sure," Flash said, curious what the alicorn would want with him. The two ponies traversed the halls of the castle, an awkward silence still somewhat surrounding them. Springer tried to make things lighter with a few yips, but the silence continued for some time. However, Luna then spoke up, "I notice you and Cadenza have a closeness of sorts.” "Well yeah," Flash replied with a shrug, "I've known her for as long as I've known Twilight and Celestia. She used to foalsit me and Twilight when we were younger and she helped me in ways no one else could." "How so?" "Well, you know how she used to be a pegasus before ascending into an alicorn?" "I am aware of that," Luna replied. “The first of her kind with doing that.” "Well, when I first went to live with Twilight's family, I was still learning to use my wings," Flash sighed as he remembered those days of struggling to fly, "Grand Hoof thought about sending me to flight camp but feared I'd be embarrassed because I was so much older than the others. So, Cadance taught me everything she knew about flying." "That sounds like the type of thing she would do," Luna said with a smile. "To me, Cadance has always been like a sister," Flash smiled as well as he thought about the great foalsitting memories with her, "she's one of the ponies who made me who I am today." "Yes, Celestia told me about your unfortunate past. Have you learned anything new since?" "Nothing," Flash shook his head as Springer showed a small frown, "but it doesn't matter. I have a family now, so why waste my life searching for the ones who didn't want me?" "I know that feeling," Luna said with an accompanying frown. "So what about you princess?" Flash asked with a slight shiver of fear in his throat, "it hasn't been very long since your return. How are you settling in after your..." "Banishment?" "Your words," he slightly whispered, "not mine. But yes." "It is...difficult," Luna sighed, "I have been away for so long and Equestria is so different. I fear I may be incapable of truly ruling it." "You just need some time to adjust.” "Maybe, but a thousand years is a long time to adjust to. And then there's the ponies themselves, some of which, haven't even heard of me." "You can't really blame them for that," Flash said while shaking his head, "you were gone a thousand years and I'm sure talking about it was painful for your sister. Everypony gets forgotten about eventually. You think ponies will know my name in a thousand years?" Luna chuckled at the joke, "I see your point." "Besides, if you really want to be loved by your subjects, then get out there and interact with them. It doesn't even have to be that many at first. Heck, one pony alone would do." "You may be right," Luna agreed before staring at the ground, "but the question is how? How do I...change that?" "Maybe take a leaf out of your sister's book," Flash replied as Springer gave Luna a slight hug, "she began teaching Twilight. Maybe if you took on a student, you'd learn to connect more with modern ponies." The idea seemed to intrigue the dark alicorn. "You make an excellent suggestion. I will consider it, but I will only take on the best." "I look forward to meeting them when you do," Flash remarked before noticing the time. "Excuse me princess, but as fun as this was for me and Springer, I really need to get going." "Of course," Luna said as Springer leaped off her back, "I too must make my retreat. I have a long night ahead of me." Flash smiled as with one last bow as they went their separate ways. Flash then tried to find Grand Hoof to invite him for dinner, only to find out he was busy for what seemed to be the rest of the day. Flash then asked Shining Armor to ask him to come for dinner if he ever saw him again and Shining happily agreed. Seeing this, Flash and Springer began their trip home through the streets of Canterlot. "No wonder you turned out like you did," Springer said with a cheeky grin, "everypony here is so nice." "Yeah, they're pretty great," Flash replied before giving a half-smile, "but you got the lucky pick of the ponies with the ones you met today. Quite a few ponies here can be jerks." "Like who?" "Well there's-" Flash didn't get to finish, as in that moment a familiar yet unpleasant voice caught his attention. "Well well well," it said, making his body freeze up before turning around. Standing not to far off was a unicorn stallion with yellow fur and a spiky white mane and tail with yellow tips. His cutie mark was single lightning bolt that zigzagged six times. His head was decorated with a pair of head phones, similar to one Flash had seen another pony wear in Ponyville. "If it isn't Flush Sen-turd-y." "Lightning," Flash almost growled. "Kind of surprised to see you here," Lightning laughed, his cackling voice made the duo cringe. "Heard the old coot banished you to some hick town in the middle of nowhere." "He stationed me there Lightning, and what do you care?" "I guess the fool finally realised what a mistake it was, taking you on as an apprentice," Lightning barked back. “Now that idiot will finally see how awesome I am compared to piece of trash like you.” "Just shut it Lightning," Flash almost yelled while Springer growled. Lightning just laughed again and walked off, "go back to woods where a loser street rat like you belongs." As Lightning disappeared down the musty streets, Springer tapped his partner's shoulder. "Who was that guy?" "Lightning Blitz," Flash grumbled as he continued to walk, "he's Grand Hoof's grandson, though you'd have a hard time believing it. He's always trying to mess with me because he's jealous Grand Hoof picked me over him as an apprentice." "No wonder. With an attitude like that, who'd want him as a Royal Knight?" "He is a jerk," Flash replied while gritting his teeth, "but even I'll admit he's a really power unicorn, especially with electricity based magic.” "Well, I sure hope we don't run into him again.” "I doubt that." Some time later, the two finally made it home. As Flash stepped into the house, the first thing he noticed was Twilight, sitting by the fireplace with a glum expression. "Why the long face? Lost a good book?" he asked with a chuckle, trying to lighten the mood, but Twilight continued to pout. "Okay, what's wrong?" he asked as he sat next to her. "I managed to track down our old friends," Twilight replied while she stared at the floor. "That's great," Flash said before looking confused, "so what's with the frown? Did you get into a fight with them or something?" "They've moved on," Twilight slightly moaned, "did you know Lyra Heartstrings lives in Ponyville now?" "Oh yeah, I've run into her on occasion. She's really close to a pony named Bon Bon. If I remember right, she plays the harp in Bon Bon's candy store for her." "The rest of them have all moved on too. Minuette, Twinkle Shine and Lemon Hearts just got on with their lives. I didn't even notice." "And so did you," Flash patted his old friend on the shoulder, "just because one pony leaves doesn't mean they're gonna put their lives on hold. It happens. I bet if you ask your mom and dad about some of their old friends, they would tell you a similar story." "I know that," Twilight said with a small weep as a tiny tear fell out of her eye, "but then there's Moondancer." "What about her?" Flash asked, grimacing as he watched the tear fall. "I went by her house today and her sister told me everything," Twilight cried as she put her hooves over her face, "apparently she never does anything other than go to the library and study." "Sounds like you two weeks before a test," Flash chuckled, trying to cheer her up. This however was obviously not working as Twilight continued to hide her face. "Isn't it okay if she likes her alone time?" "She's exactly how I used to be," Twilight muttered as she pulled away her hooves. "I tried talking to her but she wouldn't even give me a second glance and kept telling me to go away." "Okay, so she really likes her alone time and she's rude about it," Flash said as he grabbed her a tissue for the tears. “Some ponies change Twilight. Maybe-” “She wasn't always like this," Twilight interrupted. "I asked the others and you know when it started?" "No, when did it start?" "It started after a party I didn't attend." Flash raised an eyebrow at this. "So let me get this straight, you think because you didn't attend one party, which I'm sure countless other ponies showed up to, Moondancer just withdrew herself from the world? And that's also why she won't talk to you?" "That's exactly what happened," Twilight said as she wiped away another tear, "the others said so." "That's ridiculous.” "But it's still my fault," Twilight whimpered as she slumped down in the chair, her nose now running from the tears. Flash wanted to say something as he felt heartbroken, seeing his best friend depressed like this. Realising words wouldn't work here, he got up off his chair and headed to the door. "Where you going?" Spike asked. "I'm gonna go talk to her myself," Flash said with a slightly irritated stare, "I'll be back before dinner Spike. Don't tell everypony to wait." And with that, he shot out of the house and into the air, flying off towards Moondancer's house. Once he was on her street, he looked for her house, only to notice a certain cream coloured unicorn with a red and purple mane and tail. She wore black rimmed glasses and a saddle bag filled with books. "Moondancer!" he yelled as he landed in front of her. "Oh," she hopped at the sudden entrance before adjusting his glasses from the surprise, "Flash Sentry. Haven't seen you in a while." "Been busy," he said as he dusted himself off from his landing, "you know, I found Twilight looking quite upset earlier." "So?" Moondancer said as she walked past him, already trying to ignore the pegasus. "So, she's upset because she thinks she's to blame for you turning into a cold loner." "Maybe she is.” "Excuse me?" "It doesn't matter," Moondancer grumbled as she continued on, but stopped when Flash flew in front of her, a scowl on his face. "Don't even think about it," he barked, "I want to hear what you have to say. Why did you treat Twilight that way?" Moondancer glared at him for a moment, "Fine. You want to hear it, then here it is. I throw a big party to try and open up and your friend doesn't even bother to show up." "So one pony doesn't show up and you decide nopony else is worth hanging around?" Flash said with a tinge of anger in his voice , "did you even think that Twilight might have made other plans? When was this party anyway?" "The day before the Summer Sun Celebration," Moondancer deadpanned, causing Flash to freeze. "Seriously?!" he barked, "did you not hear about us being sent to Ponyville that day?! Plus, its no wonder Twilight didn't care about your party." "Excuse me?!" Moondancer hissed, venom in her voice. "I said it's no wonder Twilight didn't care about your party. She was a little to preoccupied with, oh I don't know, THE END OF THE WORLD!" Moondancer went silent at this. “Twilight had got an order directly from Princess Celestia to go to Ponyville that day Moondancer! She had to follow it, no matter what. Didn't you hear what happened the day afterword?” “Um...no.” Moondancer replied as she looked away. “I...never knew.” Flash facehoofed as he continued, "Look, I know it hurts to be rejected like that. But Twilight isn't the only pony out there, and I know for a fact that at least three other ponies showed up to that party." "What are you saying?" "I'm saying that if you like being on your own and just studying, that's fine. I won't try and change you. But don't blame Twilight for it.” “Why you-” “No! You're the one that gave up on having friends. Don't blame Twilight for your decision that you made!" Flash turned around and flew up into the air, done talking with her. When Flash arrived back at the house, he found Twilight, Spike, Springer, Velvet, Night, Shining and Cadance there. "Hey guys," Flash said, taking his spot at the table. Looking over at Twilight, he noticed her looking a little happier. He knew it was probably due to her brother and foalsitter being there, especially Cadance who was always good at cheering her up. "Hey Shining, did you ever get to ask Grand Hoof to join us?" Flash asked, noticing his mentor wasn't here. "Sorry Flash," Shining shook his head, "Grand had something on his plate and couldn't make it." "Oh. Darn..." "Hey it's okay," Twilight said with a small smile. “He's a busy guy. Maybe he come over tomorrow?” "Yeah," Flash nodded as adjusted himself for the incoming meal. “Though he's missing out on some good grub. I can tell just by looking at it.” “I second that.” Night Light agreed with a chuckle. As the family was just getting ready to dig in, there was a knock at the door. Being the closest to the door, Twilight got up to answer. "Hello?" she asked as she opened it. Her eyes went wide at who she saw behind the door. "Moondancer?" "Hey," Moondancer said, looking at the ground. "What are you doing here?" "Your friend Flash came around and had a few...choice words for me." "He did?" Twilight asked, glancing back at him. "It made me realise how silly I was being over you missing my party." "No, it's fine," Twilight shook her head. "I should be apologising to you. I'm sorry I missed your party back then. I uh...I was really bad at stuff like that back then...and still am." "Well, its not like you didn't have a reason for it," Moondancer replied as she slowly looked back up, "I just wanted to come and say that." With that, she turned to walk away. "Hey Moondancer," Twilight called out, getting her attention. "Would you like to stay for dinner? And then maybe tomorrow...we could hang out? We were expecting another pony that isn't going to show up so there's enough." Hearing this, Moondancer looked back and smiled, "I..I don't know. I was mean to you and-” Before she could finish, Twilight walked up and gave her hug. “Its okay. I...ignored everypony too. I ignored Lemon Hearts and Minuette and...all the others because I got too busy getting caught up in my own little world. I was so caught up that I forgot about you and everypony else and...I messed up. I'm sorry.” “But...no. It was my fault too Twilight.” Moondancer muttered as tears began to form under her eyes. “I was really stupid.” Twilight's eyes began to get wet as well as she continued. “I was dumb too. So...I'll forgive you if you forgive me Moondancer. Can you do that?” “I...” Moondancer hesitated before returning the hug, a small tear going down her cheek. “Yeah. I forgive you.” “Thanks.” Twilight said as she continued the embrace. A few seconds later, she released the hug and asked, “So, would you like to join us for dinner?” “Yeah...I think I'd like that." And so the seven ponies, dragon and jakhowl sat down and ate dinner together while discussing anything that came to mind. Moondancer found the jakhowl very interesting, asking to study him as an experiment, only for Flash to turn her down. As they continued to eat, Twilight decided to change the conversation. "So Cadance, will you be staying in Canterlot for a while?" "No sadly," Cadance sighed, glancing at Shining. "Celestia's sending me to Saddle Arabia to do some dignitary work." "That's too bad," Velvet replied as she chomped on some potatoes, "you just got back from Baltimare." "I don't mind," Cadance shook her head, "I think Celestia's hoping I can get some practice in before I have to take on any major princess work. I'm a little bummed I might not make it back for the Grand Galloping Gala and Fantasia Parade though." "Why doesn't Shining go with you?" Flash asked. "With his help, you might be able to finish your work in time to be back for the Gala." "That's an excellent idea Flash," Night agreed before turning to Cadance and Shining. "What do you two think?" They shared a glance and blushed. "I don't mind the company," Cadance said with a cheeky grin, "I'll see Celestia about it later." And so the weekend went on. Flash and Twilight hung out with their old friends, enjoying being back in their old stomping grounds. Flash showed them Springer, which got several squeals at how cute he was, leaving Flash to just shake his head. Even Moondancer began to open up more and have fun with them. All in all, it was a great trip, if not for one little thing. Grand Hoof had been avoiding Flash at all costs. Seeing this, Flash went to the castle to see him several times but to no avail. No matter what happened, Flash couldn't meet up with him, even with Shining's help. Maybe Lightning had been right and Grand Hoof was beginning to regret taking him on. Flash began to worry as he thought that maybe his mentor was upset due to Flash staying in Ponyville. Eventually, the day came when Flash, Twilight, Springer and Spike were set to return to Ponyville. Flash didn't want the day to come due to him not being able to talk to Grand Hoof the entire time but he knew he had to go home eventually. In doing so, Flash and Springer came down that morning for breakfast when they were suddenly bombarded by Twilight. "Flash!" she almost screamed, "this just came for you!" She levitated a scroll with his cutie mark on, signalling it was for him. Taking it and unfurling it, Flash read the note. "What's it say?" Spike asked. "Princess Celestia wants us all to go to the castle," Flash blinked at the next words he read, "even Velvet and Night." "Really?!" Velvet asked before Flash handed her the scroll, as she read it, she gave out a small shrug. "Huh. Well, I guess we'd better get going." Not much later, the group was entering the castle grounds, where they met up with Shining Armor. He greeted them with a slight cold stare. "I'm under orders to escort you all to the throne room.” "What's this about Shining?" Twilight asked, knowing that her brother isn't the most serious one unless its really important. "I can't say," Shining replied, "mainly because I don't have a clue." He escorted them through the castle,until they were all in front of the large double doors which lead to the throne room. "You ready Flash?" "Considering I don't know what I need to be ready for," Flash sarcastically replied, "no." "Well, let's find out," Twilight said before the doors opened. The family stepped into the throne room as the sound of trumpets filled the air. Flash looked around and noticed most of the royal guard on either side of them. Some of them he recognised and some he didn't, though they were all standing to attention. At the far end of the room stood the three princesses, all standing in their imposing regal forms. When they finally reached the end of the line of guards, Shining brought them to a halt as Celestia stood tall above them. "Flash Sentry, step forward." Flash gulped before walking towards the throne and kneeling before them. "Rise," Celestia said, making him do so. "Flash Sentry, do you know why you have been summoned here?" "No your highness," Flash shook his head, not daring to skip the formalities like he usually would. "You are here because of your incredible feats while under the tutelage of Sir Grand Hoof," Celestia said as at that moment Flash's mentor appeared out of nowhere with a large box on his back. "For your valiant deeds in helping defeat Nightmare Moon, restore Princess Luna and in keeping watch over the town of Ponyville, we three princesses have chosen to agree to a request from your mentor." "Request?" Flash asked, confused at the statement as Grand Hoof stepped forward. "Flash," he said, "it's time you had the fire power to match your conviction. It's time for you to be armed with a Celestic Gear." Flash's eyes went wide hearing this, while most of the others gasped. "What's Celestic Gear?" Spike asked, he and Springer being the only ones not getting it. "Celestic Gears," Twilight explained as she leaned down to the dragon's level, "are the weapons of the Royal Knights. They're magical weapons awarded to only those who have proven they're ready to be true soldier of the Royal Sisters." "Indeed," Celestia agreed and nodded, "Celestic Gears are forged from pure alicorn magic. They allow a knight, even one not of unicorn form, to wield magical attacks in battle should the need arise." Luna nodded, "due to how much magic they require, the agreement of creating Celestic Gears are not made lightly." "But we all agreed Flash had earned it," Cadance said, "for his years of hard work and selfless acts." Celestia agreed, "and this particular Celestic Gear is special. Not only is it forged using my magic, but also the magic of my sister and princess Cadenza." "Three alicorn magics?" Twilight said in amazement. “That's crazy.” "Agreed. It makes it especially powerful," Grand Hoof said as he lowered the box and opened it. Inside was a large clear hexagonal crystal, which shined in the light. The very beauty of it made everypony gasp except Spike. "That's a weapon?" Spike asked in confusion. "This is it's pure form," Celestia explained, "this crystal has not been touched by any living thing. It bonds to the first pony it touches and molds itself to become the perfect weapon for them. It is-hmm?" Celestia looked at the jakhowl in the room, who just stood there, shaking like a leaf. “Is something wrong Springer?” Flash turned to his partner. “Something wrong buddy? You like you just saw a ghost.” Springer's eyes barely moved as he looked back at his partner. “Aura. The aura of that thing...I've never seen something with that much aura. I can feel it over here.” “Really?” Flash raised his eyebrow as he looked back at the crystal. “Wow.” “What did he just say?” Twilight asked, as she and the others only heard barking from Springer. “He said the crystal has more aura than anything he's ever seen.” “Hmm...makes sense.” Celestia replied as she rubbed her chin in thought. “It is pure magic. There's plenty of life inside of that crystal right now.” Flash looked down at the crystal, blinking at the incredible sight before him. He could feel the power of the jewel just by standing in front of it. For a second, he felt like his entire world was right in front of him, staring at him in that crystal. "Go on," Grand cheered him on, "you earned it." Flash smiled and nodded before placing his hoof on the crystal. The crystal released a radiant burst of light, which blinded everypony, forcing them to shield their eyes. Flash didn't though as the light didn't hurt. He watched in wonder as the crystal floated out of the box before it shattered into pieces. The dust of the crystal flew around him, covering every inch of his body before flying into the air to reconstitute into a single form. Finally, the light faded and everypony looked up to see the Celestic Gear's new form. It was a cutlass with a square crossguard that was the same colour as Flash's coat while the handle was black. The curved blade had a metal guard on the straight side, which was the same colour as the crossguard. It also had Flash's cutie mark on both sides of the blade. As the weapon slowly lowered itself down, Flash took hold of it, his whole body tingling at the feeling. Everyone marvelled at the sight the blade, looking it over as Flash gave it a few practice swipes. "Incredible," Twilight gasped. "It's awesome!" Spike exclaimed as Springer let out a happy bark. “That was so cool!” "Indeed, it is a fine looking weapon," Celestia said as she scanned it over. “A truly magnificent looking blade.” "We must see what kind of magic it possesses," Luna commanded as she pointed to the window, "let us make haste to the training ground." They did as Luna suggested and headed to the training ground where Flash stood, looking at several targets while the others watched from a distance. "So," Flash said, looking back at them, "How do I work this thing?" "It's a part of you Flash," Grand explained as he went up and patted his student's shoulder, "it will be second nature to use." Flash looked back at the targets and held up his new weapon. Swinging it around a few seconds, Flash suddenly felt a rush of knowledge flow through his brain. He knew what to do. Taking flight, he pointed the sword's tip at the ground. The crossguard began to glow as Flash called out. "Flash Force!" A lazer beam shot out of the crossguard and flew towards the target, striking it dead on, causing it to be obliterated. Flash however, was sent flying back by the force and ended up coming to a rolling stop in front of the others. "I guess you still need a little practice," Grand laughed as his student slowly got up, "but I have to say, that thing really is powerful." "Light based magic," Cadance chuckled as she watched the display, "And here I was thinking your attacks would be more electrical-based considering your cutie mark." "Celestic Gears use elements their wielder has the most connection with," Celestia explained, "Flash's element must be light." "Now all it needs is a name," Luna said, "any thoughts?" Flash looked down at his weapon and his brain instantly told him the answer. "Lightbringer." "An excellent name Flash. I hope you and Lightbringer can keep peace here in Equestria." "We will your highness," Flash bowed before everypony gathered around to congratulate him. Finally, Grand Hoof walked up to him and patted him on the back. "Sorry I've been distant these passed few days kiddo," Grand said with a small playful shove, "I've been trying to get this finished before you left." "It's fine Grand Hoof," Flash nodded, "though I will admit I was starting to think you didn't want me around. That you didn't want me as an apprentice anymore...sorry I thought that." "Nonsense kiddo! Whatever made you think that?!" Grand laughed as he hit Flash's back again, causing the young stallion to let out a moan. "Training you has been on of the greatest accomplishments of my life. No matter what happens, you'll always be my apprentice kiddo." "Thanks Grand Hoof," Flash said with a small smile, glad to see his fears were wrong. And so, Flash Sentry was awarded his very own Celestic Gear, the greatest gift a Royal Knight can receive. How will Flash and Lightbringer keep peace in Equestria? We'll see.