//------------------------------//
// Equestria's Harmony 
// Story: Flash Sentry, Defender of the Peace S1 
// by Banshee531 
//------------------------------//

All throughout the city of Canterlot, the light of the Divine Judgement spell was spreading. Anyone the light touched who the caster saw as an enemy, wouldn't survive. The light flowed through the streets, everypony shielding their eyes as it did. Even at the castle, the royal sisters felt fear and cover their faces before they extended their wings, shielding the other ponies around them. Then, the light finally exited the city. There, it's expansion stopped, having now finally engulfed the entire city in one go.

It looked as if Lightning had finally won.

As the light of the spell began to fade, Lightning laughed maniacally at his victory. "AHAHAHAHAHA! Finally!" He yelled through his laughter. "At long last, victory is finally mine! Now, nopony will dare stand against me!"

"I wouldn't be so sure about that."

Lightning froze at the voice, making him look down as the last of the light dispersed. There, standing in the same spot he'd been before, was Flash. Iron laid next to him, panting in exhaustion. Despite this, the two looked perfectly fine.

"Hey kid," Iron said as he looked back, "er...Fluttershy. You okay?"

Fluttershy, who'd hidden behind one of the church pillars when the spell was cast, looked around at him and nodded. "I'm fine...or, I think I am. What about Flash? Is he okay?"

Iron just smiled as he looked back at the apprentice knight. "Do I really have to answer that?"

"How is this possible?" Lightning asked in disbelief, "How...how are you still alive?! I cast the Divine Judgement spell perfectly! You all should be atoms now!"

"Looks like you messed up," Flash said with a smirk, making Lightning growl at him.

"The city of Canterlot and all the ponies in it's walls are fine." said a third voice. Everypony looked around, only to see Solid Script enter the church. He appeared to still be injured after his battle against Twilight, as he leaned against it's main doors.

"What are you doing here Script?" Lightning asked the unicorn, a growl in his voice. "Didn't you fail me?!"

"I was watching from afar," Script explained as he tried to walk inside the church, only to fall to the floor due to his injuries. Seeing this, Fluttershy quickly rushed up to him and helped him up. As she did, Script then panted as he said, "When I saw you attempt the Divine Judgement spell, I tried to intervene, but my injuries slowed me down. However, it appears that I had no need to stop you, since it looks like your spell didn't work."

"That's impossible!" Lightning growled, slamming his hooves into the ground in frustration. "I cast the Divine Judgement spell perfectly, just like you showed me Script! You told me that with this amulet, I could use the spell!"

"Maybe...but there's still one part of the spell that hindered you. Remember, the ultimate forbidden spell was created to destroy the caster's enemies. Since nopony's dead, you can figure out the rest."

"He doesn't see us as his enemy?!" Flash exclaimed in disbelief. "Not even me?!" Flash then gave Script a glance of pure confusion. "You're kidding, right? He hates me!"

"That's right," Script nodded, coughing as he did. "Despite your anger and the corruption with the Alicorn Amulet, your true feelings shined through in the end Lightning. I had you use the amulet to give you the magic power to use it...but it didn't matter. Your true heart said otherwise."

The others couldn't believe what they were hearing. Lightning was...good. After all the things he'd put them through, they found it hard to believe that. So much so, none of them said anything after hearing this. That is, till Fluttershy spoke up with a slight gasp, "His magic could see into his heart...and that's why we're still alive."

"You can try to hide your feelings Lightning," Script chuckled with a smile, "but your magic will always reveal the truth within your heart." Script then just shook his head, showing he was the only one that wasn't surprised with Lightning's heart. "I've known you since we were colts Lightning, there's always been good in you. This just proves it."

All while this was being said, Lightning had been unleashing a low growl as the amulet pulsed a red glow. "No that's ridiculous...that's impossible!" he mumbled before yelling, "I am Lightning Blitz! Everypony is against me and anypony who'd dare stand in my way...IS MY ENEMY!"

"That's enough Lightning," Script told him, "you and Flash need to go see your grandfather before it's too late. I may hate him like you do...but you still need to see him." Script coughed again and began to fall, only for Fluttershy to help him beck up. "Then...then you need to go to the princess and beg them to forgive you. You have to."

"Me?! BEG?!" Lightning growled as the glow of the amulet intensified, electricity shot out of his horn and surged around him. "You dare tell me to go and beg to somepony weaker than ME?! You stinking traitor Solid Script, you betrayed me with the spells you gave me! They're nothing compared to what I wanted!"

Solid just shook his head again. "I couldn't help that Lightning. I agreed to help you, but I can't change what the spells are. That's just how it works. I'm sorry."

"BE QUIET! YOU'LL ALL PAY FOR THIS! RAAAAUUGGGGHHHHH!" Lightning roared as electricity flew out of him, bolts striking random spot in the room, ripping the floor apart and causing some of the columns to crumble. Fluttershy screamed as she saw a bolt fly at her, only for Iron to jump in front of her and use his Iron Guard Shield to block and ground the electricity.

"Such power," Script said as he shielded his face from the lightning. "Looks like the amulet gave him more than even I could calculate."

"Who do you think you are!?" Lightning and the others turned to see Flash, raising Lightbringer in his hooves, staring Lightning down. "You're stronger then Celestia and Luna?! Don't make me laugh! We both know that if you went up against them in a fight, you'd be a moon crater in five seconds flat. Heck, you couldn't even take Grand Hoof down! I mean, why else would you trap them all in the castle?! Just because you're his grandson, that doesn't make you anymore special than the rest of us!"

"What do you know?" Lightning barked back as his eyes glowed bright red. "You're just some filthy street rat that somepony else took pity on. YOU DON'T HAVE A FAMILY, YOU PIECE OF STREET TRASH!"

Flash just smirked at him. "That's where you're wrong. It's true, I don't know who my parents are. I don't know if I have any brothers or sisters. But I do have a family." Flash closed his eyes as he began to explain. "A family isn't just something you're born into. It's also the friends who have stood with you, the ones who have fought by your side." As Flash opened his eyes, he wasn't seeing Lightning and the cathedral. He saw Twilight. He saw Spike, Springer and all the friends he'd made in Ponyville. He saw Shining, Cadance, Night and Velvet. He saw Celestia, Luna and Grand Hoof. He saw Soarin and everyone else he was honoured to call his friends.

The image of them faded as he focused back on Lightning.

"The ponies who've been there for me," Flash chuckled as he spun Lightbringer in his hooves one more time. "And who I've been there for in return. They're my family...they're all my family!" Flash then gave a cocky grin, pointing his blade at Lightning as he continued, "In that way, I've got the biggest family in all of Equestria. And if you think I'm gonna let you get away with hurting them," he shot forward, ready to strike with his sword, "YOU'RE DEAD WRONG!"

"AND YOU'RE JUST DEAD!" Lightning yelled as he too shot forward.

As the two clashed, Iron's instincts kicked in and he retracted his weapon. Without skipping a beat, Iron grabbed Fluttershy and rushed out of the church, followed by Script. Not a second later, the whole building's interior exploded as two blurs flew out of the roof. The blurs, one orange and the other yellow, flew through the air, magic flying everywhere as lightning magic and Lightbringer kept clashing with each other, causing literal magic fireworks.

"HOW DARE YOU CHALLENGE ME!" Lightning screamed as he slammed an electrified hoof into Flash stomach, causing Flash to repel slightly back.

Feeling this blow, Flash quickly spun around, smashing his own back hoof into the unicorn's face. After this, the orange pegasus quickly raised Lightbringer up and slashed down in an instant. "I'M GONNA STOP YOU LIGHTNING!" He screamed as the two of them collided with each other again, "I won't let you get you're hooves on Equestria! It's our home, and there's no way I'm gonna let you destroy it!"

It was then that Lightning managed to kick Lightbringer out of Flash's hooves, which caused to the two to begin pummeling at each other. Hoof after hoof hit their mark, both punching and kicking as they kept wailing into each other. Finally, Lightning hit Flash hard enough that the young pegasus was sent flying into one of the cathedral's towers. As Flash smashed the bricks with his back, Lightning charged right into him, damaging the tower further as he did.

Lightning just looked down at the injured Flash, the orange pegasus still trying to move as Lightning stood over his slightly rubble-buried body. "Why won't you just die, you stinking street rat?"

Flash looked up at him and smirked. "Because I have something worth living for."

Lightning growled as he grabbed Flash's mane in his teeth and with all his force, threw him along the top of the church. Flash rolled down the tiles, where he landed next to Lightbringer when he stopped. Lightning then leapt out of the tower and crashed onto the roof, where he saw Flash was still alive. "Just give up, you piece of gutter trash! IT'S OVER!"

Down on the ground, Fluttershy, Iron and Script were watching with bated breath.

"Flash!" Fluttershy whispered in worry.

"Get up wimp, I know you've got more in you than just that." Iron mumbled under his breath.

As Flash tried to pick himself up, he looked up at Lightning. "Why don't you just give up the fight? Equestria...this kingdom, it doesn't belong to you. It belongs to nopony."

"We'll see about that," Lightning scoffed as electricity surged from his horn, "STATIC SPEAR!" A giant arrow made of pure lightning shot out of his horn and flew at Flash. His eyes just widened as he saw the attack coming head-on, his hooves not moving as he tried to dodge. Unfortunately, it was too late, and an explosion followed as it hit him. "AHAHAHAHA! Looks like you're finished, you pathetic street filth!"

Then, as if on cue, the smoke made from the explosion began to fade. When the smoke vanished, Flash could be seen laying face down on the roof, unable to move. Lightning just smiled before saying, "Didn't that old fool ever teach you to respect your elders boy? You should of known you couldn't beat a pony like me!" His smile faded however, as Flash slowly tried to lift himself to his hooves.

"No way," Script gasped in disbelief, "he can still fight?"

"I think I'm beginning to see why Grand chose him for an apprentice." Iron added, gripping his hooves on his weapon.

Lightning's eyes were now completely red, as his anger grew past its limit. "That was your last mistake you fool," he said as electrical energy surged around him, "BECAUSE NOW I'M GONNA OBLITERATE YOU!" The lighting flew up and form a familiar ball shaped attack.

"Oh no," Script's eyes went wide before yelling, "Don't do it Lightning! That much power could kill him! You're no killer Lightning! I know it and-"

"THUNDER BAZOOKA!” The sphere shot forward, becoming a long spear of lightning, which flew at Flash. Despite how much Flash wanted to move, he just didn't have the strength to do it. His back legs giving out, Flash fell back as he closed his eyes as he waited for the attack to hit.

"FLASH!" Script screamed as Fluttershy closed her eyes, not being able to bear seeing the attack hit her friend. As the bolt flew, Script kept yelling, trying to light his horn to prevent the attack. That is, till something unexpected happened. As the attack continued its path, suddenly, the bolt of lightning turned a perfect ninety degrees. Script watched the bolt change directions, following it till it hit something new.

Iron Core.

Iron had climbed up to the roof and held Piecemaker out, the bolt striking his weapon that had turned into a spear. The ten thousand volts of electricity surged through his body, making Iron let out a pained groan as he was electrified on the spot. A second later, he was blasted off the roof by the force of the attack and sent hurtling towards the ground.

"IRON!" Fluttershy screamed in horror as she and Script watched him fall.

"What happened?" Script asked in disbelief. "Did he use himself as a lightning rod?"

As Iron fell to the ground, a cough followed before Iron yelled at the top of his voice, "GET HIM! GET HIM NOW!"

Flash was in shock as he saw Iron fall, but that was quickly replaced with determination as he dug deep and found new strength. With this, he reached over and grabbed his Celestic Gear before standing to his full height, raising the weapon high as he did.

"RRRRAAAAGGGGHHHH!" Flash screamed as Lightbringer burst with orange light, which enveloped his whole body.

"Damn, the insect's still alive." Lightning spat, still looking at the now knocked out Iron. Lightning then glanced at Flash, spitting as he did. "Oh, you're still here. Got some fight left in you?" Lightning then let out a chuckle. "Heh, still think you can beat me street rat?"

Script on the other hoof, was more focused on what Flash was doing. That is, before his eyes went wide when he realised what it was. "No, that's insane. He can't possibly be...no way."

"What's he doing?" Fluttershy asked.

"He's unleashing all the alicorn magic from his weapon," Script explained before pointing at Flash, "and absorbing it into his own body."

Flash's eyes stared directly at Lightning, staring him down with a new face of determination. That is, till Flash flipped Lightbringer in his hoof, pointing it like a throwing spear. Tightening his grip once more, Flash threw the blade at the unicorn, the sword now flying like a bullet at Lightning. Seeing it coming, Lightning tried to create a shield, only for the sword to come to a stop. The stop was inside the shield though, making a fully visible crack as he floated there inside the shield. Seeing this surprised Lightning, causing his attention to occupied for a spilt second. That is, till he realized that Flash's hoof was already back on the sword. With one downward slash with the blade, the shield shattered like it was nothing.

"NO!" Lightning screamed, his eyes now finally showing true fear as Flash overpowered his magic for the first time. With this, Lightning tried to move, only to feel the might of now glowing, alicorn magic-powered pegasus in front of him.

"Take...THIS!" Flash yelled as he threw one of his front hooves into Lightning's chest, hitting the amulet, "and THIS!" He spun around and struck Lightning in the same spot with his back hoof, "and THIS!" He smashed one of his wings into Lightning, "and THIS!" He spun head first and slammed his tail down on him. Finally, he jumped away and threw his whole body at Lightning, smashing him with every ounce of strength he had. "AND...THIS!!!!"

To Flash, it was five full force attacks. But to Lightning and everypony watching, it was one incredibly fast and powerful attack. As for the Alicorn Amulet, it was now covered in five large cracks from the five blows.

"Impossible," Script gasped as he watched Flash fly into the air with his Celestic Gear. "His body should have burnt out. But somehow...he's somehow managing to hold on to the magic of three alicorns."

Fluttershy just chuckled before shining a small smile. "One thing I've learned from knowing Flash and Twilight is that even when things seem impossible, if you have a good enough reason, you can still make it happen."

Flash grabbed hold of his Celestic Gear, the light quickly flying out of his body and into the weapon before looking down at Lightning. "IT'S OVER LIGHTNING!" He yelled as the flew down towards the unicorn, ready to strike him down. "FINAL...STRIKE!" The blade of the sword cut across Lightning, striking the amulet and causing it to finally shatter into a million pieces.

As the blow finished, a giant burst of red light followed, forcing everypony to close their eyes. As they did, the magic that was once inside the amulet flew out of the accessory. Magic flowed out like a dam being burst open, causing the entire area to be engulfed with red light.

And then, nothing. The light of the amulet disappeared, its necklace part falling off of Lightning, breaking into even more pieces. With this, Lightning Blitz was now fully knocked out, his battered and bruised body now laying on the roof without a single bit of movement. Above him though, was Flash, wobbly but still standing.

"I don't believe it..." Script said in disbelief, "he beat Lightning."

Flash just smiled before turning to look out at Canterlot. Chuckling at the sight, he raised his Celestic Gear and unleashed a mighty cry of victory. It was finally over.



In Canterlot Castle, Grand Hoof heard the sound of Flash's victory cry. His ears twitched as a weak breath left his mouth. "He did it. Well done, my boy." he whispered, a smile appearing on his face.



Meanwhile, in an unknown location...

A certain pony, their face completely covered by a hooded cloak, was sitting at the mouth of a cave. The pony was a unicorn, and had a silvery coloured coat. The pony's horn was shining, as a dish-like object was levitating in front of it in an aura of light purple magic. For a long while, the figure just sat there, staring at the object while rubbing their chin.

That is, till another cloaked figure appeared behind them. It was a pegasus with an orange coat, chuckling as they approached the other.

"You're watching him again, aren't you?" The pegasus asked with a rough yet happy voice.

"Can you blame me? He's being reckless again." the unicorn said with a calm and soothing voice. The unicorn then looked back at the pegasus, "I wonder where he gets that from."

The pegasus laughed at that as he looked over the unicorn's shoulder at the disk, which showed the image of Flash atop the church. "He's become a fine young pegasus."

"Yes...yes he has. Just like I foresaw."

"How much longer?" The pegasus asked, slightly raising a single eyebrow.

"It's unclear," the other shook its head. "He still has many adventures ahead of him."

"And what about her?"

"Soon. Soon they'll know."

The pegasus sighed, before removing the hood and showing its face. It was a stallion, complete with a blue mane and a face that could be considered an exact, if older, copy of Flash. "We've missed so much."

"I know," the other replied as it removed it's hood as well. It was a mare with violet hair and eyes. She blinked at the disk as she let out a small sigh. "But we must, if he is to reach his full potential."

They both looked down at the disk, which was still showing the image of Flash.

"Your journey has only just begun," she said with a large, happy smile. "My dear Flash Relic."



The next day...

Canterlot was not exactly in the best shape at the moment. Due to the previous day's events, the Fantasia Parade, along with whatever else that was planned for the festival, had obviously been pushed back. With this, most of the ponies that participated in the 'Battle of Canterlot', now found themselves in the main medical wing of Canterlot Castle, though most were there due to a certain electrical weapon and getting zapped because of its destruction.

"You seem to be perfectly fine," Fluttershy commented as she checked on Rainbow's injuries. Many of Canterlot's doctors had been severally injured during the Battle of Canterlot as well, so Fluttershy had volunteered to help the few able bodied doctors with her limited medical skills.

"Of course I am," Rainbow bragged, putting her hoof to her chest. "It takes more than a little lightning bolt to take me down."

"That's because you're awesome!" Scootaloo cheered while sitting next to her idol on a stool.

"Well, Applejack and Big Mac are both awesome to!" Applebloom added with a triumphant smile.

"Thanks sugarcube," Applejack giggled as she and her brother were sitting at one of the tables. Their injuries weren't as bad, causing them to let out a sigh of relief that it was over.

However, as they did, the medical wing suddenly went quiet as the three princesses stepped into the room, before flying over to the main stage. (Though Cadance didn't do this due to her more serious injuries.) There, Celestia let out a small cough before announcing, "I'm pleased to announce that I just got word from the doctors and Grand Hoof will pull through. He'll be back to full health soon."

The whole room broke out in cheers. Everypony knew Grand Hoof and nopony wanted to lose him, so hearing he was out of the woods was cause for celebration. This included Twilight, who had just gotten out of the bed from her injuries finally healing. "Thank goodness. I have to admit, I was getting a little worried."

Shining Armor heard this and just laughed. "It'll take more than that to make Grand Hoof kick the bucket. Knowing him, he'll probably outlive us all."

"He isn't as young as he used to be son." Velvet remarked, nudging her son as she did. "Maybe it's time for him to retire as a Royal Knight."

"As much as I agree with that," Night Light nodded, "being a Royal Knight isn't something you can just retire from."

"Besides," Spike added, "he's the last pony I'd ever expect to want to retire."

"That may be true," Celestia said as she, Luna and Cadance walked up to them. "But still, any additional stress could significantly affect his health."

"If that's true," Twilight replied with a slight frown, "is going along with the Fantasia Festival a good idea? I know he was helping set up the festival but...after everything that's happened, is it really okay?"

"Actually, Grand Hoof insisted that we make sure the parade goes on," Cadance told her. "Besides, it's the perfect way to cheer everypony up after all that mess."

"YEAH!" Pinkie cheered, confetti flying out of her hooves. "This is gonna be so much FUN!"

"I can't wait to see it," Fluttershy said happily.

"What on earth do you mean my dear?" Rarity told her with a slight nudge. "You're gonna be in it."

"WHAT?!" Fluttershy froze after hearing that.

"That's right," they turned to see Trixie, "so many ponies were injured in the fights that we need as many ponies as we can for the parade." Fluttershy began shaking after hearing this, causing Rarity to give her a slight hug.

"So does that mean we're gonna be in it to?!" Sweetie asked as the CMC looked up at the older ponies, hope in their eyes.

"Of course you can be in the parade," Luna giggled, nodding as she said that.

"Yeah, we need as many ponies as we can get." Spike remarked as he pointed a claw to the sight behind himself. "Especially since we're not gonna be able to use those guys."

They all looked over at a far wall, where Flash and Iron were sitting on a bench. The two were covered head to hoof in bandages, along with Springer, who had a few bandages on as well. The jakhowl was currently trying to stop Flash from trying to scratch his bandages off, and both had sour faces.

"Screw you and your parade," Iron grunted. "Stupid, stinking..."

"I don't see why I can't still be in it!" Flash moaned with a roll of his eyes. "And I don't need these bandages-OW!" Flash glared at Springer after the jakhowl had smacked his hoof away from scratching under another bandage.

"How could you be up to doing anything in that state?" Iron asked him, "Face it you wimp, you're out."

"I heal real quick," Flash barked back. "A little rest and I'll be rearing to go."

The others all laughed at the two's argument, only for the arrival of Soarin to catch their attention. "Hey Rainbow Dash," he said as he walked up to the mare, "can we talk?"

"Er, sure. What's up?"

"We need seven flyers to perform the Wonder Flash at the parade," Soarin explained as he pointed to another pegasus, who was stilling laying on a bed in the wing. "The only problem is, Spitfire's wing got badly burned when we took out the Thunder Tomb."

"Oh no! Is she gonna be okay?"

"She'll be fine," Soarin replied with a waved hoof. "But she's been grounded, so we're one short for the parade. I was wondering if you'd be willing to take her spot."

"Seriously!?" Rainbow replied, her eyes going wide at the proposition.

"Well yeah," Soarin nodded. "You said you knew the routine by heart, and the only pony I know who also knows it is currently..." They both looked over at Flash, who was now growling at Springer over the bandages. Seeing this, Soarin turned back to Rainbow. "So, what do you say? You in?"

"OF COURSE!" Rainbow screamed as she shot into the sky.

"That's awesome Rainbow Dash!" Scootaloo cheered, clapping her hooves.

The rest of the table cheered for the pegasus as Celestia smiled and looked over the rest of the room. "It's nice to see everypony getting along again," she said to herself, "especially after being forced to fight one another."

However, her statement would soon backfire, as the cheer that filled the room suddenly vanished. Surprised at the sudden silence, everypony turned and saw four certain ponies now enter the room. It was Lightning Blitz, followed by Solid Script, Wild Smile and Gorgenia. The three were staring at the ground, while Lightning simply looked towards the princess.

"Lightning!" Shining hissed as the leapt in front of him, "What are you doing here?!"

"I came to see my grandfather," Lightning replied with an almost monotone voice. "I'd like to talk to him before my sentence."

"You can't be serious!" Velvet yelled, "Not after what you put him through! You almost killed him, you-" she tried to say before Flash stepped in front of her.

The orange pegasus stared at Lightning for a hard moment, the two just glaring at each other. Letting out a puff of air from his nostrils, Flash pointed to a door with his wing. "Grand's in there."

Lightning just nodded and began walking towards that door.

"By the way," Flash said to his back, "next time it ain't gonna be one on one. It'll just be you and me, mono a mono. I swear I ain't gonna lose to you again."

"What's he talking about?" Spike asked. "I thought Flash and Iron beat Lightning?"

"No," they turned to Iron Core, "I'd say it was more like a draw."

"Really?"

Iron just nodded. "Look at what he did to us. No doubt he's strong, even without that amulet."

Lightning simply looked back at Flash and nodded, before continuing forward.



It took the unicorn some time, he felt severe hesitation in front of that door. Despite this, Lightning slowly opened it, stepping into the infirmary where Grand was waiting quietly as he stared out the window. They stayed like that for some time, basking in the awkward silence that filled the room. That is, till Grand finally spoke up.

"So, what did you hope to gain from coming here to see me, boy?" Grand asked his grandson.

"I...I didn't hope to gain anything," Lightning told him, his voice trembling as he said that. "I just thought I'd come see my last remaining relative before Celestia banishes me or throws me in a dungeon...or banishes me and throws me in a dungeon in the place that she banishes me to."

Grand remained silent at this.

"I never meant for this to go so far. When it started, all I wanted was to prove I was strong enough to be a Royal Knight to you. But...but the more I used the amulet, the less I cared about who I hurt. In the end, I didn't care at all. I just..." Lightning hesitated as several tears went down his face. "I went too far thanks to that amulet."

"That's what the amulet does Lightning." Grand replied, walking up and putting his hoof on Lightning's shoulder. "Thankfully, that wretched thing can't hurt anypony anymore."

"Another win for your golden boy," Lightning said as he tapped Grand's hoof away. "Though I think I'm beginning to understand why you chose him over me. He's a more worthy knight than I'll ever be."

Grand simply sighed, shaking his head as he did. "Lightning Blitz...do you know why I chose to make Flash my apprentice and not you?"

"Because I wasn't worthy of being it?"

"No," Grand replied sternly, "you were worthy of being my apprentice. That fact was, you didn't need to be my apprentice."

Lightning just blinked at this, confused by what he meant.

"I took Flash under my tutelage not to spite you, but because he, like you, had great potential as a knight. But unlike you, he might not have been able to fulfil that potential. You on the other hoof, were making great strides in becoming a knight without my help. I believed that given time, you would one day earn that title on your own." Lightning's eyes went wide hearing this. He couldn't believe that Grand had believed in him all this time.

"But something went wrong. At some point, you strayed from the path and now you've done this." Lightning sighed, knowing he was right. However, Grand just continued with a question. "The only question is, where do we go from here Lightning? What do you want to do now?"

"Isn't that...isn't that for the princesses to decide?" Lightning asked, sighing as he did.

"It is," Grand nodded before pulling his grandson into a hug. "But I need you to remember something boy. I want you to know that no matter what, I will always be there for you."

"I know. Thanks." Lightning returned the hug, letting another tear drop down his face.

A few seconds later, the hug ended and Grand said one last thing. "Now, you better go and get ready. The princesses won't exactly be patient with you."

Lightning nodded, and turned to leave the room. As he closed the door behind him, Solid Script then stood by the door, looking at his old friend. "You okay Lightning?"

"Yeah...I'm okay. Thanks Solid." Lightning mumbled before turning around, slowing making his way to the princesses. As he did, Solid glanced at the door before walking inside. There, Grand turned around, surprised at the sight of Solid.

"Something you need Script?"

"No. But I gotta say..." Script growled as he crossed his hooves, glaring at the old stallion. "You really are a great liar Grand. I mean, I knew you were always good at lying, but that was serious grade A garbage there."

"What are you-"

"Shut up." Script barked, slamming his hoof into the floor. "We both know you were lying to him. If you weren't, you wouldn't treat him like you do."

"I wasn't lying Script. I've always cared for the boy. I want nothing more but to help him."

"Tch...spoken like a true family bully." Script hissed before walking up and tapping Grand's chest, growling as he did. "Listen Grand, I know how you truly are. You've bullied me for years because I was the only way you could keep in contact with Lightning. He did so much for me and my life, only for you to constantly try to dismantle him like the bully you are."

"I never did such a thing Script. I'm sorry if you feel that way, but I never meant you or Lightning harm."

"I don't want your apology!" Script yelled, hitting the floor again. He then leaned over, his snout almost touching Grand's. "All I want is for you to realise what this is. This, is All. Your. Fault." Script growled, tapping Grand's chest as he said those last three words. "And I'll never accept your apology, not after the years of torment you gave me and Lightning."

Before Grand could say another word, Script quickly turned around and began to walk towards the door. As he did, Grand let out a sigh before saying, "I'm sorry Script. I never meant to hurt you. I just...I just wanted to help the boy."

"Yeah..." Script just shook his head. "And you couldn't care less about the ones around you or him when you wanted to 'help' him. And now...and now I have to watch my best friend fall apart in front of the princesses." Script then opened the door and gave him one last glare. "Good to know that you got what you wanted in the end. You just got rid of your troublemaker grandson and lost your reason to torment me! I hope you're happy Grand, cuz I'll never forgive you for this."

"I never wanted that and you know it Script. I'm sorry you think that way."

"...yeah. I'm sorry I think that way too." Script replied, rubbing his eyes as he did. Solid then turned his head and glanced at Grand. "You know, you were all he talked about back when we were foals. Too bad you weren't what he said you were."

"I'm sorry Script. I never once meant you harm." Grand said again. "I just wanted to help the boy, even you can't deny that. You know how much I truly care about him, just like you know I'm sorry."

"Yeah. Too bad your apology is too late for Lightning."

And with that, the door quickly closed, leaving Grand alone. As he stood there, a lone tear went down his face before he said to himself. "Blast...things never go right for me, do they? I guess...I should go see what the princesses are going to do to my boy."



Grand soon left the room and headed out to the main hall, where the three princesses stood atop the stage while Lightning stood before them. The rest of the ponies gathered around him in a circle, leaving a good ten foot gap between them and him.

Celestia was the first to speak, though it wasn't instant. Before she could, she watched Lightning, the unicorn just standing in the middle of the circle. She had known him for years, and this was nothing like she had ever seen before from the unicorn. Lightning was always a...difficult pony. Arrogant, rowdy, egotistical at times, yet he showed true power when it came to battle magic and showed that he would be loyal to the Royal Knights. And yet, the Lightning in front of her was nothing like that. Instead, it was like looking at a soft doll, ready to just sit there and listen to what you had to say. Lightning had this calm, yet sorrowful frown on his face. Completely unreadable one moment, while the next moment was filled with nothing but misery and regret. It had been a long while since she had seen a pony like that.

"Lightning Blitz," Celestia spoke to the room, "you stand before us today, charged with the crimes of treason, kidnapping and holding hostage of seven mares, one of which was a princess, and unleashing an illegal weapon upon this city. What do you have to say for yourself?"

"I have but one thing to say," Lightning replied, "a request."

"What is it?"

"My only request is that none of my friends be held accountable for their actions during the Battle of Canterlot," Lightning explained, looking at them with the corner of his eye. "Any pain that they caused was only because I was controlling them, for which I am sorry."

"Lightning..." Script whimpered, shaking his head. "Don't say that."

"We don't blame you," Gorgenia added.

"It was that crazy necklace that made you do all those things," Wild finished. "We know it wasn't fully you pal."

"Indeed," Celestia nodded, "and because of that, by law, we can not cast the full punishment upon you that these charges require."

"What?!"

"Any actions caused by somepony under mental manipulation," Celestia explained as she shifted in her seat. "Cannot be taken into full account. Since we are unsure how much of what you did was of your own doing and not the Alicorn Amulet, we cannot make a proper sentence."

"But I'm guilty," Lightning said in a disbelieving tone. "Like, I put the amulet on, mind controlled my friends and attacked the city guilty."

"Yes, but how guilty you are is up to debate." Celestia then pointed to the two others on the stage. "As such, Luna and Cadance and I have discussed this matter and have chosen the punishment."

"I'm willing to accept any punishment you deem worthy," Lightning replied.

Celestia nodded, before opening her wings and speaking in her Royal Canterlot Voice. "Lightning Blitz, you are hereby banished from Canterlot!"

Lightning nodded, looking down afterwards.

"This banishment will last exactly one year," Celestia continued, "and in that time, I have a task for you."

Lightning looked back up at her.

"You said Equestria was weak, but I wonder how much of Equestria you've really seen. So as part of your sentence, you will leave Canterlot and for one year, you will travel this kingdom, and learn what its strength truly is. On this day one year from now, I expect you to return to Canterlot and tell me what that strength is. If we are unhappy with your answer, we will rethink your sentence." Lightning didn't understand what she was planning, but Celestia continued to speak anyways. "Do you accept this punishment?"

Lightning looked around the room, at Grand Hoof, at his friends and then at Flash. Seeing the pegasus nod, he remembered what he'd said in the church about family and friendship. Turning back to Celestia, he nodded. "I do."

Celestia nodded. "Very well. You have until midnight tonight to pack what you need and leave. As part of the punishment, you will be alone while doing this. Your friends or family may not come along with you."

"Thank you princess." With that, Lightning turned and slowly walked out the room. As he tried to leave, his three friends blocked the door. Their faces showed nothing but despair, but Lightning just shook his head before saying, "Move. I have to leave."

"Lightning..." Script muttered, tears forming in his eyes. "This isn't right. I should go with you."

"Script, you heard them. I have to go alone." Lightning replied, putting his hoof on Script's shoulder. "I did the crime, remember? You three were-"

"That's doesn't matter!" Script interrupted, batting Lightning's hoof away. "I agreed to help you even before that Lightning! Don't say that you have to be punished alone for this! I...I..." Solid hung his head as he said the next words. "Its not fair. Its just not..."

Gorgenia and Wild hugged Script as he stared at the floor, tears now hitting the floor. As they did, they both looked at Lightning, who was also about to cry. Seeing their sad faces, Lightning just shook his head before saying, "Gorgenia. Wild. Take care of him for me, will ya? I won't be around to save his scrawny hide anymore."

"We will darling." Gorgenia nodded, her frown slowly turning into a smile. "Though I will have my hooves full if Wild is helping me."

"Tch, don't worry." Wild replied, his frown still staying. "I'll make sure I'm good." Wild then tapped Lightning's shoulder. "Sides, when you get back, we'll go get those mares we promised to get before all of this!"

"Yeah..." Lightning chuckled back. "Though I'm pretty sure a certain mare has caught your eye Wild. Piece of advice? Just go for it."

"Oh? I didn't know that!" Gorgenia gasped. "Who is the unlucky mare Wild?" she joked.

"She's that pink one that-"

"STOP IT!" Script yelled, interrupting their banter. Tears continued to go down his face as he yelled at them. "Don't you two get it? Lightning has to-"

Gorgenia put her hoof over Solid's mouth. "We know. We just want one last happy memory here Solid."

"Yeah...that's all we want." Lightning agreed, hugging Solid again. "Sorry it had to be like this buddy."

"But...but Lightning...you don't-"

"Let him go Script." said another voice. The four turned and saw Grand Hoof walking up to them, a blank stare on his face. "You can't stop what's happening here."

"You..." Script hissed before his tone began to get increase. "This is your fault! This is all your fault!"

"Whoa! Settle down Script!" Wild yelped, grabbing Script as the unicorn tried to charge into Grand. Gorgenia was also pulling him back, though she was having less luck.

That is, till Lightning walked in front of Solid, tapping Solid's forehead with his hoof. "Stop it Script. This is my fault, not his."

"But he's the-"

Lightning shook his head again. "No. This is my fault and my crime."

"That's where you're wrong boy." Grand barked, walking in between the two. "I'm at fault here too."

"What are you-" Lightning tried to say before Grand gave him a glare, causing his grandson to shut up. Grand then let out a long sigh, and turned to Script.

"Script, I'm sorry for what I did to you over the years." Grand admitted, putting his hoof on Script's shoulder. As he did, Solid quickly swatted it away.

"I don't want your apology you stinking geezer! I want you to take responsibility for what you've done!" Script yelled, pointing at Grand as he did. "Lightning gets punished while you just get off without a thing! You're the reason this all happened! If you hadn't hounded me and him for years, trying every way to worm into our life and make it worse, none of this would have happened!"

"I know." Grand huffed, closing his eyes for a second. "And I'm sorry." Seeing this, Script stopped yelling. He was already out of breath, and his breathing had become a bit heavier. As it did, Grand took a long breath before continuing. "Listen Script, the reason I stuck around you for so long was because you were the only one that stood by Lightning the entire time. All his other 'friends' weren't really his friends when he was a colt. Wild and Gorgenia came much later compared to you. Only you stuck by him, and I could see you were loyal to him. Because of that...I used your loyalty. And I'm sorry that I did, I should have never done that."

Script's glare started to soften as he heard these words. However, before he could say anything, Grand continued. "I can't change the past Solid, and I can't change what I did. But, I can change what happens next, and so can you. So..." Grand then presented his hoof for a hoofshake. "Please, could I start over with you? I know I can't change what happened but...I want to make up for it, I truly do."

"You...you're lying...I know you are." Script panted, his hoof shaking as he wanted to swat Grand's hoof away.

"He's not." Lightning firmly said, "I know he's not Solid."

"Indeed. There are always times where you must confront those who you don't get along with for those you love." said another voice. The five turned and now saw Princess Cadance walk up to them.

Gorgenia's eyes quickly narrowed, and she let out a hiss. "Back off harpy. We're having a heart to heart over here."

"I know. And I want to help with that." Cadance admitted before walking up and meeting her eyes with Gorgenia's. "I came to apologise as well Gorgenia."

"You? Apologise?" Gorgenia scoffed. "You're kidding right? Why is a life ruining harpy like you apologising?!"

"Because I need to, just like Grand." Cadance admitted as she presented her hoof like Grand. "I'm sorry for what other ponies have said to you because of me. I know I can't change what they say, but that doesn't mean I can't apologise for what they've done to you. I'm sorry that this has happened to you and the statues you made, and I want to start over with you as well."

"I...I..." Gorgenia stuttered, glancing at the hoof and back at Cadance.

As she did this, Lightning spoke up. "Listen Princess Cadance, if you want to apologise to her over that, help her like I did."

"Oh? How did you help her?"

"I uh...I funded her stuff." Lightning admitted, slightly looking away as he did. "Nopony in Canterlot would fund her statues cuz they uh...compared them to you. So, I funded her to help her out."

"I see." Cadance giggled before waving her hoof, showing she still wanted to hoofshake with her. "I would be happy to help you with that Gorgenia."

"Really?" Gorgenia gasped, putting her hoof over her mouth as she did. "You really mean it?"

"I promise."

"I...I..." Gorgenia stuttered, not sure what to do. "I don't know what to say." she said as she shook the hoof, though with some hesitation as she did.

As she did, Script just let out a grumble. "How can you say that Gorgenia?!" He spat before turning back to Grand. "Didn't she ruin your life, just like he did mine and Lightning's?!"

"But they want to move on and fix things Script." said yet another voice. It was Twilight Sparkle, who had now walked up to the others. "You should do the same Solid. Grand just wants to help you, just like Cadance wants to with Gorgenia." Twilight shined a bright smile, causing Script to feel an intense heat in his face as he stared at the smile. As he did, she continued, "We all want to get along, simple as that."

"I...I..."

"She's right kiddo! That's all we want." Grand chuckled, still presenting his hoof. "All we want is to get along!"

"I...I don't know." Script muttered, his eyes slowly ascending to looking at Lightning. There, his friend just gave him a nod. With this, Script shook the hoof, though just barely. "I accept."

"Thank you boy." Grand shook it with vigour, causing Solid to go up and down.

With this finally settled, Lightning gave Grand and his friends one last hug. Script starting crying again, along with Gorgenia, though he was able to make them stop with another hug. Lightning then brohoofed Wild one last time before giving them all a goodbye wave. Then, he left the room, causing the crowd in the room to break out in murmurs as they watched the unicorn walk away with a smile on his face despite what he had done.

"I can't believe this," Rainbow growled, crossing her hooves. "After everything he put us through, that's all he gets?! Are you kidding me?!"

"Despite everything, there's good in his heart." Flash remarked, patting Rainbow on the shoulder. "Hopefully, this will help bring it out."

"Some time to reflect is good for the soul," Twilight agreed.

"If you say so. Though, I get the feeling we haven't seen the last of him."

"Okay everypony, that's it." Celestia called over the commotion, "It's time to forget about this and get everything ready for the parade."

"YES PRINCESS!"



Some time later...

And so, the citizens of Canterlot prepared for the big event that night. It wasn't long till the floats had been decorated, the costumes fitted and everypony knew what they had to do. With this, Cadance was now overlooking some of the float decorations While she did this, Shining Armor walked up to her.

"Hey," he said, getting her attention.

"Oh hey!" Cadance replied, looking back with a smile. "Ready for the parade Shining?"

Shining however, ignored her question. Instead, he walked up and twiddled his hooves as he did. "Can we uh...talk? Privately that is?"

"Sure." Cadance gave a few quick instructions to some ponies before the duo left, finding a quiet room where they wouldn't be disturbed. "So what did you want to talk-" Her sentence was cut short when Shining pulled her into a hug.

"I thought I'd lost you." Shining whimpered, tightening the hug.

"It's okay," she told him, rubbing his back. "I'm fine."

"I know...I just...yeah." Shining told her as he pulled back. "Its just...this experience made me realize something."

"What?" Cadance asked, tilting her head as she did.

"I can't live without you," Shining told her, slightly blushing. "I want you in my life for as long as I can."

"What are you saying?" Cadance asked as her eyes grew wide.

Shining suddenly grew nervous, his whole body shaking as he began to mumble. "I'm asking...I'm asking if...if you would-" he stopped when Cadance placed a hoof to his lips, the biggest smile he'd even seen on hers.

"Yes," she said before breaking out in tears, "a hundred times yes." She threw herself at him and the two hugged. Shining was still dumbfounded, but quickly got over it and smiled as he hugged back.



Very soon, Celestia lowered her sun and Luna replaced it with her moon, allowing the parade to be in full swing. The streets of Canterlot were packed with ponies from all over Equestria, all ready to watch the Fantasia Parade. They lined up along the street and watched, as the many floats drove down the road and the performers showed off and performed.

The CMC were on the first float, dressed up like animals along with some Canterlot foals. They danced around on their float, designed like a farm yard animal pen with Applejack and Big Mac dressed up as the farmers.

Trixie, Moondancer and several other unicorns were on another float. They were using their magic to perform tricks, Moondancer juggling several objects around while Trixie created several illusions and fired off a barrage of fireworks.

On the float behind it was Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie, Fluttershy and many other ponies, dressed up in costumes and dancing. Fluttershy had taken some convincing, but they had eventually managed to get her to participate. They figured out the best way to do this was Twilight having to ask Solid Script for help. The runic mage helped her by casting an enchantment on shy pegasus, one on her eyes that allowed her to see the ponies watching her as animals, which seriously helped her fright.

Behind them, Shining Armor and twenty five guards marched down the street in rows of five by five. "To the left!" Shining yelled, "SALUTE!" The ponies did so, saluting to the left and making the foals they saluted to giggle.

Behind the soldiers was a float that looked to be made entirely of crystal, where Cadance sat waving at the crowd. Her horn glowed and the crystals started shining different radiant colors, causing the crowd to be wooed at the beautiful display.

Next was Spike, who was marching down the street between six floating vases filled with fire. He was dressed in a coat and top hat, spinning a flame cane around. He then took off his top hat shot fireballs into the air, which exploded and wrote flaming words in the sky.

After this was Flash, who despite still being bandaged up, marched down the street with Springer at his side. Pulling out Lightbringer, Flash spun it around as it shined while Springer did the same with a Bone Breaker. Then the jakhowl dissolved his bone and created an Aura Blast, which he fired into the sky before Flash threw a Flash Cutter at it. The combination of the two caused the Aura Blast to explode into a burst of vibrant colors, causing the crowd to cheer.

As this continued, all the Wonderbolts were flying above the parade. As they flew, Rainbow amongst them, they began the special routine for the parade, making a perfect formation above everything. "This...is...AWESOME!" Rainbow yelled as they continued to fly. "Best parade ever!"



In the area where the float that were yet to go were held, Grand Hoof was waiting for his turn. Despite being bed ridden, the old pony had insisted that he get to participate and was wearing a funny looking clown costume.

"Hey Grand," he looked around and saw Iron Core standing near the float.

"Are you not going to be in the parade Iron?" Grand asked.

"To be honest," Iron grumbled, a slight growl in his voice as he admitted, "Making a fool out of myself isn't exactly my thing."

"As long as it makes ponies happy, making a fool out of oneself is nothing to be a shamed of."

"Maybe," Iron said before pulling out a folder full of paper. "Here, this is for you. I wanted to give this to you earlier, but with everything that's happened, I couldn't find the time." Grand took the folder and became stern. Despite this, Iron continued, "Everything Skybreaker and I managed to find out about your son is in that folder. It's not much, but we were able to track several of his movements after he escaped from prison. We're hoping to find out what he's up to soon."

"Thank you, and give my thanks to Skybreaker too. We can't allow Doom to freely do as he wishes. I intend to take him down the second you and Skybreaker have his location."

"And don't expect us to just sit around while you do," Iron said with a cocky grin. "We'll help you in anyway we can."

"Thank you," Grand nodded.

Suddenly a pony ran up to them. "We're ready for you Grand Hoof."

The earth pony nodded again before turning to Iron with a smirk. "Well, my public awaits."



Meanwhile, in the crowd, Lightning had gotten everything he needed and was on his way out of the city. Looking over at the parade, he saw his grandfather dancing around on his float. Suddenly, Grand and Lightning's eyes met and the two remained silent for a moment, until Grand smiled and nodded.

Lightning nodded back and turned to leave. No words needed to be said, for they both knew what the other was thinking.

"No matter how far away you are," Grand said to Lightning with a small but sorrowful smile on his face, "never forget that you have my support."

"I won't," Lightning replied, tears forming in his eyes. "Thank you grandfather. And I promise that when I return, you'll be proud to call me your grandson." And with that, he turned to leave, tears flowing down his cheeks as he headed into the great unknown.



Celestia and Luna were both riding on the last float together. They smiled and waved at the crowd as they drifted down the street, but as Luna looked over at Celestia, she couldn't help but feel like something was on her mind.

"Sister," she spoke up, getting her attention. "Is something the matter? I would have thought you'd be happy seeing everything back to normal."

"I am," Celestia nodded before signing. "But something is still troubling me."

"What is it?" Luna asked, "the danger has passed and Flash Sentry managed to destroy the Alicorn Amulet. We should be celebrating."

"It's Flash that has me worried," Celestia admitted with a slight grimace. "This situation has only added more questions to an already alarming list about him. Why could he not cross the age barrier? How was he able to handle our magic surging through his body and most of all, how was he capable of generating a new Element? His bravery is what gave his Element shape, but the magic it used had to come from somewhere. Could Flash be in possession of some ancient magic?"

"If that's true, then it would explain why he couldn't cross the age barrier. The enchantment might not have been able to tell the difference between Flash and the magic."

"Exactly," Celestia nodded again. "But if he does have some kind of magic, is he unaware of it? Or has he kept it a secret from us?"

"Do you fear he might one day become a danger to Equestria?" Luna asked, surprised that she had to ask this.

"No," Celestia replied with a shake of her head. "After everything he's done, I have no doubt that he is of no danger to anypony. But I fear the answer to the mysteries around him may one day place him in great danger. I just...I pray and hope that does not hurt him or Equestria."



Flash and Springer flew up and over the parade, his wings just barely working over his injuries. Despite this, he found a mare he was looking for and made a decent landing next to her. It was Twilight, who was adjusting her outfit for the parade till she saw Flash land.

"This sure has been one crazy adventure hasn't it?" Twilight asked as Flash walked up to her.

"Yeah, but I get the feeling our adventures are only just beginning."

"What makes you say that?" Twilight asked with a raised eyebrow.

"I don't know," Flash said with a shrug. "Just a feeling. Like something bigger is coming and we'll need to be ready when it does."

"Well, whatever it is, we'll be ready for it."

"You know it!" Flash replied back with a big smirk, Springer barking in approval. "Because like you said, when we're united, we can do anything."

"That's right," Twilight nodded in agreement. "Because we're all more than just friends."

"Yeah! We are family!" Flash laughed as she then pulled Twilight into hug, Springer trying to join the hug as well. They then looked out over the parade as a new song began to play over it. Hearing it, everypony began to sing. While this was happening, Flash's mind flashed back to everything he and his friends had been through since he and Twilight had moved to Ponyville.

He remembered everything. The absurdity that followed after he got the tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala. His first meeting with Scootaloo and Springer. The time where he met Trixie and helped her fulfil her true potential. (That and got a jail cell to boot!) There was also the time where he faced off against a dragon and being saved by Fluttershy. The time where he passed the Great Test and got Lightbringer and used it to face off against Shake Shocker. Another particular good memory was helping and seeing Rainbow pull off the Sonic Rainboom, and telling the crusaders how he got his cutie mark. Then there was what happened these past few days. Him going to the Grand Galloping Gala, meeting Iron, and of course, the Battle of Canterlot and defeating Lightning once and for all.

So much had happened in such a short time.

As Flash looked over at all his friends, all of them enjoying the Fantasia Parade, he looked back on where he'd started. He was nothing but a kid on the street with nothing to show for it, yet he'd certainly come a long way. And the future was soon to come and bring with it new trails, new enemies and new adventures for Flash and his friends to experience. No matter what came next, they'd all be ready. Because they had each other and nothing would ever change that, no matter what.

Because they were a family.

Flash took a deep breath and turned towards the crowd. "Alright everypony!" He yelled out to all of Canterlot, "you all ready to really get this party started?"

"YOU BET!" They all replied, before laughing and cheering.

One thing was for sure. Flash was right when he said that this wasn't the end, it was only the beginning.


-The End-