> Left in the Darkness
>  by TheUndiscoveredPony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Emptiness Twilights POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Closing the book I have open, I look up to the wall next the bookshelves in the library. Pictures of me and Flash Sentry are posted everywhere from us cuddling, to kissing, to pictures of us in the park or at the ice cream parlour. Though one picture catches my eye, it was the one that was taken an hour before he left. I still remember the day as if it was yesterday.

Flashback-

It was a beautiful afternoon. Flash and I were walking down the street hoof in hoof. We were just talking about us, what we like to do, our fears, etc. Just normal couple things when suddenly Flash stopped

"Flash, are you okay?" I asked concerned. I quickly scanned over his face and looked deeply in his eyes showing my worry.

"Yeah, Twilight. It's just..." He trailed off and looked into the distance. He was starting to scare me and I didn't know what to do.

	"Flash..." I said softly. The sun was starting to fade in the distance as the moon took its place and it was starting to get dark. Ignoring the fact that he didn't answer me, I grabbed his hoof and swiftly dragged him home with me, to the library in Ponyville.

The door slammed shut and I turned to face Flash, only to realize he had turned his back to me.

“Flash?” I asked softly while slowly walking next to him and sitting down. He didn’t move an inch so I took it as a good sign and put my hoof on his back while leaning my head on his shoulder.

“Twilight…” He whispered hoarsely. He sounded so sad and empty, he wasn’t himself. The Flash I knew would never be like this, we were always open in this relationship. I even knew about the time he was drunk and went stumbling into my brothers room, when he was visiting, and screaming out that he liked me and wouldn’t care what Shinning had to say about it. Lets just say I spent the day nursing him back to his normal state.

“Flashy, you're scaring me… What's wrong?” I asked getting worked up over the fact that he wouldn't let me know. I then sat in front of him while leaning my horn against his head.

“I don’t know if I can do this…” Flash said brokenly. Millions of possibilities came to mind but one stuck out like a sore thumb. He was breaking up with me. The one pony that I truly fell for was breaking up with me. Tears filled my eyes as I tried to keep them at bay but they slid down my cheeks anyway.

“Are you-are you breaking-breaking up with-me?” I started to stammer. He looked up with teary eyes and nodded.

I felt my whole world stop as my heart broke into two and shattered into a million pieces. I started crying and an intense feeling of heartbreak came barreling down on me as I sobbed even louder.

“Flash, you can’t! Are really breaking up with me?” I stammered even more as each minute passed with no response. Every moment that passed broke my heart even more. Flash leaned back and looked at me with no emotion on his face and answered.

“I’m sorry, Twily.” Flash said, getting up. I just stayed at my spot shocked, crying out what was left of my broken heart. As Flash got up and walked out the door, I gathered up my courage and screamed with my sore throat.

“I LOVE YOU, FLASH!” I shouted desperately but he didn’t turn back, he just kept walking forward. I just pushed myself up and ran outside as dark clouds filled the sky.

“FLASH! I love you! Please come back!” I kept shouting and shouting but nothing happened. Suddenly, rain started pouring down on Ponyville and lightning struck, but I just stood there looking at the love of my life walk away. Just as I turned to go back, a lighting strike flashed in front of me and for a moment I saw Flash Sentry’s tear stained face but it disappeared a second later. I thought it was just my imagination.

Letting my head fall down, I slowly walked home while letting the rain drops fall onto my wings and coat. I don’t even acknowledge the fact that I might get sick, the pain of heartbreak just kills me on the inside.

How could he do this? Why did he do this? Why? I thought he loved me… I love him, did he not love me? My eyes kept getting teary and I didn't know what to do! My heart yearned for him but he was gone. Gone. It hit me like an electric shock. I cried out and ran into my room. When I reached my door, Spike was already calling out my name but I didn't answer.

“Twilight!” Spike shouted as he ran up the stairs to find me sobbing on my bed. It smelled like Flash since he had been living with me for a month now. “Oh Celestia! Twilight!” he said, shocked, and quickly came to sit next to me. I just hugged him and sobbed into his shoulder. After what felt like an eternity, I stopped crying.

“Twilight… What happened?” Spike asked softly. I just looked up at him with puffy red eyes and started to tell him what happened.

“He broke up with me…” I finished with tears in my eyes. He just hugged me tighter and made sure to stay with me for the rest of night.

End of Flashback-

It has been a week since then and I still feel hollow. The world feels dull and I barely get out of bed. I don’t want to do anything anymore. I just want to not feel the pain that Flash has caused me. Flash, I miss him so much! I cry every night and wish on every star he would come back. Maybe… A doorbell rang interrupting my thoughts and I went downstairs not bothering to brush my hair cause who cares? Just as I was opening the door and bunch of bodies came crashing through the front door.

All my best friends were here. After a moment all of them got themselves off the floor and crushed me into a group hug.

“Oh Twilight! Are you okay?” Fluttershy asks as everyone steps back from the hug. I look around and see that all my friends have worried faces on.

“Guys, it’s just hard…” I start, “I don’t want to do anything anymore, but I’m okay.” I feel bad for lying to them but I am just gonna make them worry more. I plaster a fake smile on my face and get some snacks ready for them.

When I come back they are all discussing something intently but stop when I enter the room. Applejack is the first one to speak, “Twilight, y’all sure that you're alright?” I quickly nod and put down the sacks and laugh a bit when they munched down the snacks like pigs.

“Guys! This is suppose to last the night!” I exclaim. They all give me the look of we’re hungry so don’t judge.

“This is so good! I mean how do make these snacks so good? They are like amazing! By the way Twilight I thought we wouldn’t be coming because of the thing with Fla-” Rarity shot her hoof to Pinkies mouth stopping her from saying anything else. 

“Sorry about that,” Rarity says with a small chuckle, “Pinkie is just excited.” A nod of agreements go around.

“So Twilight, what are we going to do tonight?” Rainbow Dash asks. I think it over for a moment and then decide.

“I think we will just hand out and let loose. Forget about the outside world for awhile and head to bed after,” I say with a small but real smile.

“PARTY!” Pinkie screams as she turns some music on.

The rest of the night I spend time with my friends and forgetting everything thats happened just to have fun. Together we talked, we did manicures, we danced and we had FUN! All my friends were supportive even Rainbow Dash pulled me over and gave me a long hug saying that time will heal everything. Though, I don’t believe it right now.

I went to bed shortly after they left and cried. Everything reminded me of Flash and I just can’t take it. I miss him a lot and I want him to come back. I don’t even know if I will ever be okay again if he doesn’t come back, only time will tell.

Time heals everything, thats what Rainbow Dash said.

Time heals everything, I hope.

But right now I feel empty. 
> Alone Flash POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Breathing in deeply, the stench of the woods fills my nostrils. I am deep in the Everfree forest where you cannot see light, except for small glances through the thick trees. In the darkness, I make my way through the trees. All the branches surrounding me scrape against my flank, leaving red gashes. I wince as I step on a pointy rock that I could not see in the density of the forest. Sighing, my mind keeps wandering to a special filly that had captured my heart and the stupid mistake I had made. That one thing has cost me so much but I had to do it, if not, I would have condemned Twilight and Equestria to doom. It was all because of my curse.


---------------------Flashback---------------------


She kept asking me if I was okay when I didn’t say a word. It was then that she dragged me to our house, no hers. After that day, it would only be hers not ours.

“Flash?” She asked me softly as I looked at the setting sun. I just wanted to spend these last moments with her before I left. I was thinking so much that I didn’t even realise that she was pulling my hoof towards her house.

“Twilight…” I whispered hoarsely. I sounded weak and sad, my voice wouldn’t harden. I probably didn’t even sound like I was okay. Twilight had such a worried look on her face that it made my heart clench. 

“Flashy, you're scaring me… What's wrong?” She asked. I heard it in her voice, she was getting worked up over the fact that I wouldn’t talk. She sat in front of me, her beautiful mane slightly touching my neck and her horn resting on my forehead.  

“I don’t know if I can do this…” I said brokenly. I had prepared for this moment but it didn’t make me feel any better. Tears filled her eyes and I saw how she was struggling to keep them from pouring out. Tears of my own started to form but I just swallowed visibly and sucked in a breath.

“Are you-are you breaking-breaking up with-me?” She started to stammer. I looked up at her tear stained face and it took all my willpower to not take her in my arms and say that this was a sick joke. That this was a prank and I wasn’t breaking up with her but I couldn't, so I nodded.

I saw her face change to one of total heartbreak and I felt my heart break into millions of pieces. I needed to do this, I had to before IT took over. Just as my thoughts came to a halt, she started crying and gripped my hoof tighter. I just kept a neutral face and tried really hard not to cry.

“Flash, you can’t! Are really breaking up with me?” She stammered even more as each minute passed without my answer. I stayed quiet and let myself go numb as every second passed. Every moment that passed her face looked even more broken, so I leaned back and answered her. 

“I'm sorry, Twily.” I said, getting up. Wincing as she cried more, I left the house not looking back. I tried hard not to turn around and run to her, I just kept thinking left, right, left, right...

“I LOVE YOU, FLASH!” She shouted desperately but I didn’t turn back, my heart breaking and tears of my own started to fall. The sound of desperation in her voice was so evident that I wanted to run back, take her in my arms and say that I love her but I couldn’t, no matter what. 

“FLASH! I love you! Please come back!” She kept shouting and shouting but I didn’t turn back, her voice getting fainter. Suddenly, rain started pouring down on Ponyville and lightning struck, but I just kept walking, leaving the filly I love. Just before I left, I needed one last glance of her. So I turned just as lightning struck and I saw her, broken and crying. It was all my fault.

Crying out in anguish, I ran into the Everfree forest trying to escape Ponyville and the heartbreak I felt at that moment. The more I ran, the more the rain penetrated my coat. The density of the forest getting thicker and thicker as I entered the deep part of the forest. Just as I picked up speed, I tripped and fell, successfully hitting my head on some rocks, knocking me out. 

I had no idea when I woke, maybe a couple of hours or minutes later. I didn’t know. Luckily, I didn’t break anything and everything was intact. Except my heart, I thought sadly. Another set of tears came rushing out as I realised the severity of my actions. I sat down crying. I BROKE her. She was crying because of me and I crushed her heart into a million pieces. It was all my fault. 

I had to stop thinking about her, I had to, so I thought of the curse and how it affected my life. My family left me when I was a foal because of it. I lost my job as a royal guard when it became worse. I lost the mare I loved because I couldn't tell her my feelings because of the curse. I saw a pattern; it was ALWAYS the curse that destroyed the happy things in my life. Just as the thought passed through my mind, my vision got blurry and black dots started to appear in my line of view. I trotted forward unbalanced and I knew IT had come back. I kept walking until I just fell straight to the ground and let myself go.  I stopped thinking and let IT take over.


---------------------End of Flashback---------------------


That was the last thing I remember from that day, the rest is just blacked out. It’s been a week and the feeling of aloneness seemed to be overwhelming me so I just let myself go numb. Everything in my mind went blank and the emotions I have been holding back, are deep in my mind where I cannot feel them. 

The faint ache of my heart made me realise that I should keep going. Spreading my wings, I jumped into the sky and started to fly towards Foal Mountain, where I would circle around Canterlot and avoid Ponyville.

Hours passed and I caught sight of the rocky mountains. Each peak covered in a small cloak of snow and clouded by dense mist. I could hear the faint sound of a waterfall crashing against rocks and I knew I was getting closer to my destination. 

Tucking my wings into my side, I pressed forward gaining speed as the trees of the Everfree forest zoomed past. It was then that I saw what I was looking for. A cave. A place where I would spend the rest of my life. 

I landed in the cave and travelled through it, bypassing rocks and cracks so I wouldn’t trip. I found the darkest part of the cave and set myself down to rest. Laying my head on my hooves, I started to drift off into sleep when SHE invaded my dreams. I was having difficulty keeping my emotions in check and started to cry. My heart dying and shattering on the inside again as I think of her. 

Her smiling face flashes through my eyes but is quickly replaced by her tear stained face. It looked so broken. Her sobs echoing in my ears pierced through the wall I had built around my heart.

The pain is so fresh and deep, it makes me feel hollow. The emptiness of not having someone love you is unbearable. Life is what you make it and I made this pain appear and I am paying for it. No matter what, I am never going to forgive myself for this but I had to go through with it. I would rather lose my heart then lose the one that has it.

I failed my family, my life and my love. I am a disappointment to the world and it’s all because of my curse. Maybe if I would have done something different it would have turned out to be okay, but I did not and it kills me inside. This curse has destroyed me and I am a danger to all of those who are around me especially the ones that I love. I sigh and send silent messages to Twilight even though I know she will not hear me. I only wish she could hear me, but inside, I know that it is impossible.

Twilight, I have failed you.

I failed and I cannot ever come back.

I left you and now we are alone.

I left and I will be alone forever.

Alone. Is a word that has so much meaning but has so few letters. It is the only word that describes what I feel right now. No other word can describe it as much as that word does. 

I feel alone.

I am alone.
> Rainbow Dash Twilights POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	After yesterday night, I felt a bit better, especially talking to my best friends. They were all supportive and didn’t treat me like I was fragile. They knew I was hurt on the inside and didn’t want to talk about it. So they just let me forget about it for a night and I was grateful. Though I knew I would have to spill the beans soon.

Letting out a sigh, I got up from bed and headed towards my bathroom. The door had my cutie mark as decoration. I liked my cutie mark, it was a seven pointed star. As I entered the bathroom, I headed straight for the sink and grabbed a bunch of water to splash against my face. When I looked up, I did not recognize the pony in the mirror. The pony in the mirror is a stranger, she has a bedhead mane, puffy red eyes with dark lines under them and an emotionless expression. That mare is not me.

Feeling lonely and depressed, I leave the bathroom and head to the entrance of the library just as the doorbell rings. I walk up to the door and look back to the pictures on the wall. They seem to draw me nearer and make me look at them, but they only make me cry. I close my eyes and will myself not to spill any tears but still, a lone tear escapes. Furiously I wipe it away and open the door, only to reveal Rainbow Dash.

One look at me and she knows that I’m about to cry. As fast as she can, she traps me in a bear hug that I gladly return. We only stayed that way for a few seconds but it gave me reassurance, something that I have been lacking these couple of days.

“Twilight… Have you been crying again?” Rainbow Dash asks as she lets go of me. There it was, the pang. That clenching feeling when you know somebody is right but you want to deny it completely.

“No…” I whisper but that's a complete lie, I have been crying for hours each day and she knows it too. Rainbow Dash looks at me skeptically before asking again, softening her voice even more.

“Don’t lie, Twilight. Have you been crying?” She asks again. I close my eyes and sigh. I can’t lie to her, I just can’t but I don’t want to sound weak.

“Yes, but only last night, not this morning.” I say quickly. I see her face harden as she takes in a deep breath. If Flash were here, he would get a huge butt hoofing from Rainbow Dash. Flash… I can’t stop thinking about him.

“Let’s go for a fly, Twilight.” Rainbow Dash says while stretching out her wings. I nod and stretch my wings before taking off. Rainbow takes off shortly after me but the only thing I’m thinking of is flying. The feeling of flying is amazing, it’s like an adrenaline rush mixed with your favorite thing to do. Being in the sky makes you feel free and… and makes you feel like you can do anything.

“Twilight,” a voice say successfully bringing me out of my thoughts about flying. I look to the side and see Rainbow Dash reminding me why I am in the sky in the first place.

“What?” I ask. I don’t really know why I am here but I guess she wants to speak with me one on one without any other pony around.

“How have you been?” Rainbow Dash asks. Why would she even ask that? She knows how I have been. Miserable. I have been miserable and she knows that, then why is she asking me something she already knows?

“Why would you ask me that?” I ask incredulously. This was not like her, she was smarter than that. Rainbow Dash groaned as she saw the look on my face.

“I know, I know! That was a stupid question to ask, I didn't even think before I said it and now I regret it. I just don't know what to say, okay well I had a whole speech planned but I forgot it and it’s-" Rainbow was stumbling over her words and talking really fast. I let out a laugh as tears started to form in my eyes. Rainbow Dash gave me incredulous look. I laughed harder and felt the sadness and confusion leave me.

"What is wrong with you?" Rainbow Dash exclaimed speechless. My laughing calms a bit but a giggle escapes then another and I can’t stop. I am in a fit of giggles.

"Have you gone crazy?!? Did you hit rock bottom yet? Oh geez, I think you did. Flash leaving her all alone has pushed her too far." Rainbow Dash mumbled the last bit to herself, but I still heard it. Now that shut me up.

"What did you say?" I ask softly. My voice slowly transitioning into something more murderous.

"Ugh, nothing... Yup nothing!" Exclaimed Rainbow Dash trying to mask the worried look on her face. What is going on with her? Blurting out things, asking stupid questions, it’s like... Oh my Celestia! How could I have not realized? Now it’s so obvious why she wanted to see me!

"Y-you’re in LOVE!" I barely got all the words out. Rainbow Dash wouldn't act this way if something wasn't going on and I know from experience that when you’re in love, you do things and say things you would never expect. The look on Rainbow Dash face is priceless!

"WHAT!?! I didn't say that! Where did you get that idea?" Rainbow Dash said shocked. I give her a confused face, I thought that was the reason why she wanted to talk to me. To get advice on love but I wouldn't be much help with my messed up love life.

"So you’re not here to ask for advice on love or something involving Soarin?" I ask still confused. Realization crosses Rainbow Dash face and she burst out laughing. A pang of hurt crosses over my face as she laughs.

"Twilight, I did this because you are my friend. You needed to get out of the library and get some fresh air. I wanted just to talk and just to let you know, I love Soarin and all but I don't need any advice." She stops and then decides to add, “You know Twilight, I’m here to listen to anything you need to say, okay?" Rainbow Dash finishes with a small smile.

"Okay," I nod and think about her little speech. If she isn't here for that what is she here for? The Rainbow Dash I know would be tough and not show emotion but this one is different. This is so weird...

"Twilight..." Rainbow Dash says warningly. I look to her and cock my head in a confused matter. What is going on now? I mean seriously- BANG! I fly head first into a tree and start falling down.

"OUCH! AHHH!" I scream trying to flap my wings to get flying again. Rainbow Dash then sweeps down and catches me setting me back down on the ground. I am so stupid! I got so in thought that I hit a tree! A tree! Well, at least it isn't a pole, now THAT would have been embarrassing.

"Ugh, sorry Rainbow Dash!" I apologize quickly. She shouldn't have to save me, I have wings!

"I think that we should go get some milkshakes..." Rainbow Dash says dragging me by the hoof, pretty much denying the answer of no.

"RAINBOW DASH! I can walk!" I complain when she doesn't let go of my hoof. She shrugs and continues. I roll my eyes and try and walk anyway.

Shortly after, we arrive at the Cafe and take our seats at one of the many tables set in the small building. I remembered that the plants on the table serve as appetizers and started to munch on them. As I observe the cafe, I notice that it has both outdoor and indoor seating in the form of bales of hay and giant-sized mushroom tables. When we are settled, the waiter, Savoir Fare, dressed in formal attire, comes over and ask for our orders.

"Can I have a milkshake with extra oats and an apple fritter, please?" I say without hesitation. I’ve memorized the menu especially since I have come here so often with... with Flash. Flash, why must you come to my mind now? I think sadly.

"Just a slice of apple pie for me," Rainbow Dash pipes in. Savoir Fare nods and heads to the kitchen to give in our orders. I sigh and look out at the window, watching the beautiful sun shine on the small town of Ponyville.

"Twilight," Rainbow Dash speaks up, "I had fun today, it was nice to see the old you again and I will always be here for you, forever and always." I look up and the see her eyes fill with the promise.

"I had fun too. Thanks for getting me out of the house." I say with full sincerity. She has been a great friend and I am thankful that she is here.

"Here are your orders," Savoir Fare says handing us the meals on his tray.

"Thank you," Rainbow Dash and I say at the same time. We laugh and wave to the waiter goodbye.
We spent the rest of the evening eating and talking. We let the worries of the world go and just had fun, like the night before.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hours later, I find myself inside my bed and just thinking about the day. Rainbow Dash has been at my side for so long and she has been a rock solid friend for some many months. I am so thankful for her and my other best friends. Flash may have left me but my friends are still here for me and they care for me. I know now that I will be okay. Maybe not right away but I will eventually.

There are five steps to grief-

1. Denial and Isolation Done 

The first reaction to a heartbreak. We block out the words and shy away from the facts. This is a short-lived answer that carries us through the first wave of pain. 

2. Anger 

As the hiding effects of denial and being completely separate from others begin to wear, realness and its pain come out again. We are not ready. The emotionally intense feelings is pushed aside from our vulnerably able to be harmed or influenced core, redirected and expressed instead as frustration and irritation. We are extremely irritated for the person leaving. Emotionally, however, we may dislike (because of mistreatment) the person for causing us pain or for leaving us. We feel guilty for being angry, and this makes us even more extremely irritated. 

3. Bargaining

The ordinary and boring reaction to feelings of helplessness and likelihood of being harmed or influenced is often a wanted or needed thing to take control again- 
If only we... We did this... 
If only we had tried to be a better person toward them... 

4. Rejection 

It is our quiet preparation to (cut off/cut into pieces) and to bid our showed love and attention to goodbye. Sometimes all we really honestly need is a hug. 

5. Acceptance 

This phase is marked by withdrawal and peaceful. This is not a period of extreme happiness and must be told apart from become sad.

Stage one is done. I am grieving and I know that it will take time but I will make myself go through the list. I know that Flash isn't coming back, he has been gone for close to two weeks and I am angry that he would do something so hurtful. I thought he loved me! Even though I hate him right now, I still love him deep inside.

My goal is to forget Flash Sentry, even if it is the last thing I do.

I will FORGET Flash Sentry.

	
> Grave News Princess Celestias POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Letting out a frustrated sigh, I lift myself off the pile of letters I had been reading only moments ago and rub my head with my hoof. A migraine had started to appear in the midst of reading and now it won’t go away. I quickly head towards the medicine cabinet but of course was interrupted by one of my guards.

“My Lady, Princess Celestia,” The guard says with a bow. I nod for him the continue, “I have news. Grave news, I should say. There has been a disturbance in Equestria, though we have not been able to identify what the disturbance is exactly. Some say that its a creature others say it’s Discord, the list goes on.” The guard finishes with a sigh and holds an ashamed look that tells me he could not complete his task.

“Where is it in Equestria?” I ask with no emotion, though internally I was having a battle. This cannot be good, ever since Sunset Shimmer, there has been no disturbances and now there is. Something must be terribly wrong.

“It has been spotted around Ponyville, the Everfree forest and Foal Mountain but we have not confirmed the location of the creature yet.” He states firmly.

“But Princess Twilight must have taken care of it? Or have you not informed her yet?” I ask confused on the matter, to the guard. He looks to the side, then down, and finally looks into my eyes. It as if he is scared to tell me something.

“I must inform you that I have not been able to reach the Princess in a matter of days and I have sent a group of guards down to Ponyville. Though I wish not to worry you more, I do not know if she is alright or not.” Dread starts to fill me and my heart pounds against my chest as I realise that my student, almost like a daughter has not been able to be contacted. The Twilight I know always answers our calls, something must be wrong, terribly wrong.

“Send a dispatch of guards to all the places where the- the… Whatever- whatever it is.” I was hardly able to get the words out in my state of worry. Even though I am a pony who doesn’t show much feeling, I couldn’t help let some emotion show on my face.

“We’ll leave at dawn,” The guard confirms. I shake my head since it is only the morning, that meant they would leave tomorrow not today.

“You MUST leave today not tomorrow. I shall inform my sister of this recent news, while you go and assemble the group of guards to be sent to the locations,” The guard starts to object but I quickly silence him with a wave of my hoof.

“We will leave shortly, My Lady.” Says the guard and then swiftly turns around to leave. I sigh and gallop to my sisters room.

“Sister! Luna!” I shout when I reach the door.

“What is wrong dear sister, that thou hast come to see us before dawn?” Luna speaks to me with concern.

“There has been many disturbances near Ponyville and Twilight Sparkle has not responded to our calls…” I speak wistfully.

“Thou is too worried for thou own good. We are sure Twilight is perfectly fine, thou should give her some freedom.” Luna says to me. This is not the answer I was looking for, I hoping for some help in the matter. Frustration enters my body when I realise that Luna doesn’t want comfort me like I would have done if I were in her position and she in mine.

“Last time I did that one of my best friend turned against me and left me alone for a thousand years. If she is in trouble and I don’t know if she is or not but even then, I must help her. She is like a daughter and I do not wish to lose her like I did with you so many years ago.” I am left without out breath at the end of my rant and look up to Luna who wears an unreadable expression.

“Well thou was never there when we needed thou most, which led to the banishment. Unlike Twilight I begged on my knees for help, but where were you?” Luna speaks feverishly, “Oh that’s right, you were too busy to tend to your own sister. The wounds still feel fresh.” Luna finishes her speech angrily. I feel as if I have been hit with cold water and all my frustration fades.

Silence creeps into the room as me and Luna are left to think to ourselves. I am a horrible sister and I cannot believe I said that to her! This is just too much and I must apologize.

“I am so sorry Luna… This is too much for me, the new threat and Twilight Sparkle missing… It’s just too much.” I choke on the last word of my sincere statement and look away to hide my unshed tears.

“I am too, dear sister.” Luna whispers before enfulging me in a tight hug. I tightly grip her mane and let her comfort me in my time of need.

“I missed you so much when you were banished…” I mumble into her mane just loud enough for her to hear.

“I missed you too sister… Everyday and everynight, I would dream to be here with you and hast our sister moments. Where we could talk about colts,” I smile at that, “Have sleepovers, practice magic together and most of all, raise thou sun and moon together.” Luna says thoughtfully.

“I had the the same dreams and we will do them little sister,” I lean back and look into her midnight eyes, silently sending a promise through. A minute later, we let go of each other and smile while I think that we are sisters by fate and friends by choice.

Finally, when I am calm. I count to three. 1… I let everything go… 2… I straighten my composure… 3... I put a serious face on, blocking any emotion from showing.

“Okay, let us find out what we are dealing with Luna.” I say as I walk to my study. She follows in pursuit and asks what are we going to do.

“We need to find out where Twilight Sparkle is and what has happened. Then we need to find out what the threat is. So let’s get started.” I say grabbing a pencil and a board.

“So, what thou know?” Luna asks searching through some drawers for paper.

“Well, the threat is some kind of creature but that is all the information given to me at the time,” I state while opening my right hand drawer in my desk to hand Luna a stack of papers.

“Thank you, sister,” Luna says gratefully, taking the stack of paper to pile up. “But what about Twilight Sparkle? Something must of had to have happened for her thou not to contact us.”

“I am not sure…” I start unsurely, in fact I didn’t know at all. “I don’t know where to start…”

Half an hour passed and we haven’t found anything. There is nothing in the books and it is not until Luna came across one of my letters from Twilight that we found something.

“AHA! Thou hast found the answer! Princess Twilight Sparkle hast been dating Flash Sentry. Maybe thou knows where she is?” Luna says while pushing a sheet of paper into my face. It read-

Dear Princess Celestia,
Today I have learned that you can lean on your friends and they will help keep you upright. I had my third date with Flash Sentry today and my friends helped me a lot. Pinky made me laugh in my time of distress, Rarity picked out a magnificence dress, Rainbow Dash encouraged me, Applejack told me nothing but the truth (which I am grateful) and Fluttershy gave me a much needed hug before I left. They helped me today and thanks to their efforts, I hold the amazing title of “Flash Sentry’s Mare”. Friends are there for everything.
Your faithful student,
		Twilight Sparkle

She is a genius! How did I not remember that? Maybe we can talk to Flash Sentry and find out exactly what’s going on.

“Luna, we are going to Ponyville.” I say while walking out of my office.
	
> The Promise Rainbows POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	After I left Twilight after our lunch together, I headed home and I am now seated at the kitchen bar waiting for my colt friend to come home. His practices have been going on later than usual and I wanted to wait for him before I eat. Looking around, I see that the plates are neatly put at two seats at the bar and the food is already served. There are napkins on the right side of the plate and utensils are nicely situated on them. I was cooking since I got home and I made him his favorite plate of lasagna and for dessert, a pie. He absolutely loves pie. I giggle while thinking about him and then I smile at my hard work while looking at the front door waiting for it to open and see my colt friend.

An hour passes and my eyes start to drop from waiting so long. I need to stay awake but just as I think that, a huge yawn erupts from my mouth and I cover it with my hoof. I need to wait for him to eat and so I keep staring at the entrance while trying to keep myself awake. I lasted a few minutes until I blacked out on the kitchen bar waiting for my sweetheart.

----------------------


Someone was shaking me but I was in an intense dream. I was currently flying at high speeds to create my most known move, the Sonic Rainboom. I pushed forward to gain speed and in the background I heard people chanting my name.

“Rainbow! Rainbow!” They chanted but their voices started to fade in the distance as I got faster and faster. Just as I was flying something violently shook me and successfully woke me up.

“WHAT?!?!” I burst out while falling face first on the ground. Ugh, my face hurts… I tried to rub the soreness out when all of a sudden a pony burst out laughing or should I say MY pony burst out laughing.

“Don’t laugh!!!” I say angrily while a blush made it’s way up to my face but I wasn’t really mad, just really, really embarrassed. 

“Oh c'mon Dash! It was funny!” My colt friend says but that makes me glare at him. As soon as he sees my glare, he sobers up and covers his laugh with a cough but I just glare harder at him. Clearing his throat, he puts out a hoof to help me up but he was still not forgiven.

“That was not funny Soarin,” I state flatly and then start to glare at him again. “Just because you're my boyfriend doesn’t mean you can make fun of me when I fall like that. I was waiting for you when I fell asleep…” I finish while looking to the window. Sunlight was streaming out of the windows and I glanced at Soarin’s clothes. He was wearing his Wonderbolt uniform which meant he just came back… I tilted my head to the side confused since the latest a practice has gone on for was 9 at night… What could he be doing for the entire night?

“I’m sorry… I was caught up in practice and decided to stay and work on my tailslide because I haven’t perfected it…” He said while hugging me to my body but there was an edge to his voice. One that he got when he was lying… Was he lying to me? I shook those thoughts out of my head. Soarin wouldn’t lie to me, would he? He wouldn't do anything to hurt me but Wonderbolt practices never went on for the entire night and the Arena closes at midnight... My thoughts are interrupted when he kisses me.

Everything is forgotten when his sweet lips touch mine and send me into a land of bliss. I may be a bit biased but he makes me feel like I’m the only mare in Equestria. He’s one in a million and he’s mine. Mine. I like that word and it suits him just fine.

“It’s okay Soarin, let’s spend the day together!” I say as we separate our kiss. His eyes are gleaming with love. Wait, love? Do I love him? Yes I do love him. I smile at my realization and grab his hoof while flying towards the door.

For the next hour we spent our time talking and laughing. Soarin was so easy to talk to and he.. he was.. Perfect. Perfect in every single way, I think with a giddy smile. We then went for lunch to Gourmet Flank. The name made us laugh and we had a great time. Though by the time it was 1 pm, Soarin’s stomach started to hurt and he said he needed to go home to feel better but we were in line to get my Daring Doo book signed. (That was a small gifted from Soarin) The author had come to town and I was so excited! I offered to come with him but he said that we’ve been waiting too long in line to leave. He then left and I was left alone though it was going to be worth it when I get my book signed.

After getting my Daring Doo book signed which took hours, I went back to Soarins and my house. I absolutely love calling it OUR house! He asked me to buy a house together a couple of months ago and I said yes! It was the best decision of my life.

Just as I enter the door a loud ruckus echos through the supposedly quiet house. Soarin was suppose to be sleeping because of his aching stomach. His face was green when he left and I’ve been worried sick about him.

“Soarin?” I call out but only silence follows. I cock my head to the side confused. There seems to be no one here but I swear I heard something. A moment passes and another then a shuffling is heard.

“Soarin? Soarin?” I call out again heading towards the shuffling. The closer I get the more the sound gets louder. Anxiety starts to settle in my stomach and my breaths come in short pants.

“Soarin?” I ask. 

Taking a sharp intake, I open the door and stop dead in my tracks. I take in what is before me and feel my heart shatter to thousands of pieces only to be stepped on when I hear Soarin moan. Tears build up in my eyes as I process the moment and struggle to keep my emotions in check. Soarin is in bed making out with Spitfire and enjoying it. I sob and successfully catch the attention of those… those horny mule holes! But when I see Soarin’s face, I get angry. Really angry. He wore the one of shock and surprise, he didn’t expect me to find him like this.

“Dashie…” He starts but I cut him off.

“Don’t call me that!” I spit through my clenched teeth. Even speaking was hard.

“Rainbow Dash, its not what it looks like!” He tries again but strike two. The feeling of anger intensifies as he steps closer to me. His hoof reaches out but I slap it away and glare harshly to him.

“It is exactly how it looks like. You are cheating on me! Thats why you’re never home and that’s why you came home early without me! You- you’re with Spitfire! You-” I falter in my sentence and look away. Never in my life had I been more humiliated than now but it makes so much more sense now. Spitfire had been giving me a smug look for the past couple of weeks when I visited Soarin AND Soarin has been missing a lot lately even on our dates like today but I usually just brushed it off though not anymore.

“This has been going on for months, hasn’t it?” I ask looking out the window. A lump fill my throat when I realise the answer. 

“Rainbow Dash, let me explain…” I cut him off before he could utter a word.

“Answer the question…” I repeat glaring at him. I see that he visibly gulps and takes a step forward, making me take a step back.

“But Dash-” My top blew off.

“ANSWER THE DAMN QUESTION SOARIN!” I shout to him. 

“Yes it has… But not-” I didn’t need to hear more. He has been doing this for weeks and has played me since the start. Stupidity fills me and I flare my nostrils as more anger consumes me.

“You have done enough Soarin, I don’t want to hear anymore. You got what you wanted and that is Spitfire. You used me and threw me away like trash.” I spit out venomously. “You know, I fell for you. Fell hard, actually. I loved you with all my pony fibers and yet it wasn’t enough. I thought that if I went out with you, I might actually get a guy who would care about me, one who would love me. I LOVED you Soarin and now my heart is shattered into pieces. Each shard being crushed into thousands of others because of you. YOU are the cause of all my pain and I am done! DONE and goodbye.” I finish sobbing loudly. Hundreds of tears come rushing down my face and I grab my saddle bags to pack some of my things.

“Rainbow Dash…” Soarin says while I am packing my bags. “Don’t leave! I made a mistake but my feelings have never changed!” He starts pleading to me. I could see in the corner of my eye, Spitfire leaving us alone. As soon as she left, I finished packing and headed towards the door. 

“Rainbow Dash! Don’t leave me, please! I love you! I LOVE YOU!” He shouts sobbing. Never had I seen him so broken. I wanted to run back inside and say that I wasn’t but I couldn’t. The memory of him and Spitfire is too much to bear.

“If you loved me, you wouldn’t of cheated on me. If you actually cared about me, you wouldn't of been with Spitfire and if you actually had feelings for me, you wouldn’t of had eyes for another mare.” I finish my small speech and head to the door while keeping in my fresh set of tears. 

“Rainbow! Please don’t leave,” Soarin tries yet again but I glare at him.Only hours ago, were laughing our butts off of Gourmet Flank and now were breaking up. My life has spiraled out of control and I can’t steady it.

“All I wanted to come home to is for my boyfriend to be resting so he can get better and so that I can ask him a favour but I can’t do that because my boyfriends an ex now.” I grit my teeth in frustration. How could I have been so foolish? This proves that your blind when you're in love.

“Wh-what? N-no, you don’t mean that! I can’t be your ex! I love you Dash!” Soarin says with a plea. He doesn’t get it, he cheated on me and I’m never, I mean NEVER gonna forgive him for that. He can’t just apologize and think that I will go back with him. He’s crazy if he does.

“You are.” I state and look into his teary eyes. “All I asked for was a boyfriend who would love and care for me without cheating,” I emphasized ‘cheating’, “Someone who would do anything for me. Like I was going to ask you to bring back Flash Sentry so he can explain why he left Twilight. She DESERVES an explanation and I was trying to get her one. You're a cheating bastard and I am never EVER going to forgive you!” I shout furiously. He takes a moment to process everything and his face lights up as if he has an idea.

“I’ll promise you this, I WILL get Flash Sentry back here and to Twilight. I will make it up to you and this is the first thing. I regret being with Spitfire and I will do everything to convince you that I truly only love you and nobody else. But you have to promise me that you will listen to my explanation when I come back, okay?” Soarin finishes with determination in his eyes. I mouth hangs open and shake my head. Nothing will change my mind. He's a lying/cheating bastard that will never come into my life again even if he gets Flash Sentry for Twilight.

“Okay and good luck with that cause I’m gone. I'm finished and I'm leaving this place I used to call home.” I say fiercely and leave while slamming the door behind me. The door opens again and shuts. 

“You HAVE to promise Rainbow Dash, please! I'll go to the end of the earth to prove you wrong!” Soarin cries out. I think about it for a moment and think quietly to myself that Twilights going to owe me one. Soarin shouldn't get his hopes up because if did actually love me he wouldn't of cheated in the first place.

“I promise Jerk,” I purposely put an insult in and I hear him sigh before I turn around and keep flying.

One last time, I turn to see Soaring flying really fast towards Canterlot and all I can think of is my heartbreak. My heart feels like it’s been ripped apart and just as I’m thinking that something clicks inside my head.

Soarin is heading out to find Flash and he’s going to be in danger. Flash Sentry left so he doesn’t want to be found. Twilight is heartbroken like me but doesn’t know that somebody’s hunting her love down for her. This is just too much to think about I think when a headache starts to come over. I already felt emotionally drained and now my body was taking it’s toll.

Just then it started to rain. Oh great, I thought sourly. Gray clouds covered the once clear blue sky and rain was heavily pouring down, drenching me. Millions of thoughts swarmed through my mind but only one stuck out like a sore thumb.

I need to talk to Twilight Sparkle.

Now.

	
> Love Hurts Twilight's POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	I place my hoof on the newly cleaned wall in my house, it feels bare now that I have taken all my pictures down. It was an instinctive decision to take down the photos of Flash and I but they were a constant reminder of what I lost. My heart aches painfully, he was gone and he was never coming back. Sighing, I lift the box with my magic and put it in the darkest corner I could find. As I place it down, somebody knocks against my door and starts banging when I’m about way halfway there. 

“I’m coming! I’m coming!” I yell out before picking up my step to reach the door and quickly wiping the tear that was falling down my cheek. I open the door and it comes flying out, nearly hitting my muzzle.

“Waoh! Rai-” I’m cut off before I can utter another word.

“Soarin. So-Soarin-He-he-” Rainbow Dash sputters, holding herself up, she takes deep breaths. Her heavy breathing, evening out as each second passes.

“What happened? What did Soarin do? Are you alright?” At the last question, I drag Rainbow inside and sit her down near the book shelves. She’s shaking.

“Twilight… I-” Rainbow starts to sob and I sit quietly next to her, my shoulder becoming soaked with tears. 

“Dash.. What happened?” I whisper quietly hoping it's not anything horrible but in my heart, I know something's really wrong.

“I’m so mad, Twilight… But I’m so hurt at the same time… I mean how could he?!? Was I never enough!?!” Dash suddenly shouted, startling me. I take hold of the mare and hold her tight, trying to calm her.

“Dash, you gotta calm down. You need to tell me what he did because right now, you are muttering gibberish. I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I firmly tell Dash.

“God Twilight… He cheated on me! Soarin bucking CHEATED on me!” cried Dash, “And best part has yet to come, guess who he cheated with?” yells Dash as she stands up and trots in front of me. Her eyes blaze furiously  and angry tears streak down her face. 

“I don’t know…” I mutter, shaking my head. I knew this was really bad… How could Soarin do that? But then again, how could Flash ever leave? 

“SPITFIRE! THAT”S WHO!” She screams. “I WALKED IN ON IT AND- AND-” suddenly she falls to the floor and cries. Sobs rack her body and all I can do is hold her.

“What do you mean you walked in?” I let myself ask after a couple of minutes, to give her time to breathe.

“Remember, how I was heading home after I met up with you? Well, Soarin took me out and- and- it was perfect… I even got my favourite novel signed… But then… I headed home and-and he was there with Spitfire! They we-we-were kissi-kissing and he even moaned! I thought-” Rainbow Dash couldn’t finish her sentence as another wave of sobs came around. 

“Oh Rainbow Dash!” I pull her into a tight hug and let her finish her story.

“He didn’t even think I would be there. I thought-thought that he loved me, you know?” Oh, I knew very well. I know what you’re going through Rainbow Dash, I just don’t want to say it. Dash continues, “I love him. Ha, I still do,” She smiles through the tears, “But he kinda broke me. I’m so hurt right now. I’m angry too. This must be how you feel, huh?” Rainbow asks, looking at me from my chest.

“Dash… I… Don’t want… To talk about it…” I mutter looking away. My heart clenches with guilt of not sharing but… I’m hurting too. I’m trying to get over Flash, I can’t think about him. 

“It’s okay. I understand.” Dash goes quiet. We sit in silence, not a pony says a word before Dash speak up again. 

“They are both jerks, you know that? I can’t believe they could hurt us so much…” Dash starts to cry again and I hold her tighter. Friends are there for everything, for the good and the bad.

I soon find myself saying in a whisper, “Shhh.... It’s going to be okay.” but it's not going to be. I forgot that even though Rainbow Dash was strong, she was also vulnerable like me. All I want to do is cry and sympathize with her but I have be strong for her. 

“The ones that hurt us the most, are the ones that we love the most.” I whisper into the sound of Dash’ crying. She may not have heard me but it was the truest statement that I have ever spoken. 

Hours pass by and I spend them with Rainbow Dash in my arms. She finally stopped crying ten minutes ago and is now silently staring into space. I was looking out the window when an idea popped into my head.

“Rainbow Dash… Let’s take a walk.” I suggest, it’s starting to get stuffy in this place.

“Okay.” She replies with a scratchy voice from crying.

I open the door and let the wind flow into the house. Everything is so peaceful and I can hear ponies doing their work and going on with their lives, oblivious to everything around them. After observing for a bit, I step outside,  and Rainbow suddenly stops. Her eyes go wide as she remembers something and she gasps. Dash takes hold of her head and shakes it.

“Twilight… Oh Twilight… I forgot to tell you!” She shouts and starts pacing. Her mane and tail flying in the wind.

“What?” I question, suddenly really worried. 

“Soarin, before he left, he made a promise…” I watch as she paces and irritation strikes when she doesn’t finish her sentence.

“What? What did he promise?” I’m in front of her, baring my eyes at her. Her voice told me that this promise was nothing good and somehow, it concerned me.

“He promised.. He promised that he’dbringFlashSentryback!” Rainbow Dash finishes in a rush, still holding her head. 

“What? I didn’t catch what you said.” I say to her, tilting my head. My heart races as I refuse to register what I just heard.

“He promised that he’d bring Flash Sentry back.” Ranbow Dash repeats, slower and articulated more. I give her a blank stare and burst out into laughter. My heart aching in response. I’m such a fake.

“Wh-Wha-what? Why aren’t you like freaking out?” Dash sputters, appalled by my reaction. 

“Why should I care for Flash Sentry? He broke my bucking heart and stomped on it, shattering it into a million pieces. I don’t ever want to see his face again.” I angrily say while kicking the ground. I’m such a good liar, that I’m starting to believe myself.

“But Twilight, every pony saw that he cared about you. All those times you were together, he was smiling and looking at you like you were his whole world. He always had this special smile for you and always put you before himself. I remember when you two kissed in front of us, when he took a breath and stared at you, we could all see the love shining through his eyes for you.” I choked back a sob and let my face slip for a moment before putting back my poker face. Yes, of course I remembered that. How could I ever forget those memories…?

“He means nothing to be anymore, Dash.” I state firmly, glaring at her. How can she possibly understand? We are in different situations, she will never understand what I feel. The love of my life is gone, he left and is never coming back. She still has a chance to save her relationship.

“But Twilight… He’s coming back, he can explain wh-” I interrupt her by slamming my hoof to the ground.

“No Dash! I don’t care anymore! Got it?” I yell at her, “He made his choice and that’s final! He’s never coming back… And I’m not waiting around for him. He left me and now, stops thinking about my bucked up relationship! Try and fix yours before you get involved in mine!” I don’t mean to say such harsh words but I’m too blind in rage that I don’t realize it. My anger is fueling the fire in my stomach that burns brightly. He left me, he made his choice, Twilight. Get over it.

“But don’t you still love him?” Dash whispers, shrinking at my harsh words. Of course I do! I want to yell but I let my chest tighten and force the words to come across my lips. Maybe I would regret them later on but not now. 

“Not anymore.” 

With that, I turn and head back into my house, leaving Rainbow Dash startled and hurt outside. I turn back for a quick second before the door closes and the wind picks up, giving me a clear view of Dash’s heartbroken face.

I’m sorry, Rainbow Dash. I can’t do this anymore, I can’t pretend to be okay. 

As soon as the door shuts close, I gallop to my room and start packing. I made my decision. I was going to leave. As I put the last of my items inside my saddlebags, I pick up a picture of all my friends and I let my silent tears fall for the last time in my home. My heart breaking inside to leave the home I cherished the most for the longest time but I can’t stay anymore. There are too many memories… Shaking my head, I put the picture frame in my bag and close it. 

This is it…

I head back outside and don’t see Rainbow Dash anywhere, she must have left. Turning around, I look at house for one last time and take a breath.

Goodbye every pony, I’m sorry I couldn’t say it in person but I gotta go before… He shows up… I silently send the message and take off. One last look as I’m in the air and I’m gone.

Goodbye.
> Finding Him Part I Soarin's POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	“I promise you,” Rainbow Dash says venomously and I flinch at her harsh tone but… I deserved it. In all my life, I never thought I would find the one I thought I would spend the rest of my life with and I was lucky, I found her. I messed it up though… My stupid tactics cost me the most important thing in my life, the one thing that seemed to keep me from going insane in this crazy town. But I am going to change that, I will find Flash Sentry, the pony I used to call best pony friend.

Quickly after her response, I take off from the ground and start speeding towards Canterlot to start my search for Flash. The wind whips by, blocking my ears but I have tunnel vision and my soul focus was reaching Flash in time before he did anything stupid. Flash may have left Twilight but one thing I knew about my best pony friend for sure was that he loves and I mean LOVES Twilight Sparkle there was never any doubt about it. Why he left… Well, that was unknown to me. He has always had his secrets and I never did pry but now, it seems that whatever secret he’s kept has caught up to him.

An hour later, Canterlot comes into view and my heart accelerates. Anticipation runs through my veins and adrenaline makes me fly faster. Soon enough, I’m weaving through the town and I land in front of the princess’ castle, the best place to start. A couple minutes later, I’m stopped by the royal guards. A white stallion adorned with gold armour steps forward and approaches me.

“What is your business here?” He asks, looking at me. Recognition passes over his eyes when he figures out that I am part of the Wonderbolts.

“I’m here looking for information. My… eh… friend is missing. I need to find him. He used to be a guard and I thought that maybe… You would know where he was? His name is Flash Sentry.” I say hesitantly, unsure of their future responses. Something flashes in their eyes and I think, maybe it was a bad idea to ask here.... A few seconds later, the stallion speaks up again.

“He used to work here. We can’t help you. We don’t know where he is… Or what he is…” The guard says the last part under his breath but I catch it before he turns around and leaves. 

“Wait! Guard! What do you mean?” I shout out before he gets too far. Confusion and curiosity burning deep in my core. What does he mean?

“We can’t help you. Now go home.” States the guard firmly, turning around and marching back to his post leaving me utterly in disbelief. 

“BUT I NEED TO KNOW! I NEED TO FIND HIM!” I yell out but it doesn’t reach their ears. I have to find a new way of finding him.

Walking around Canterlot, I stop at a couple of shops to ask if they’ve seen an orange stallion with a blue mane but none of them have. Frustration is building inside and all I want do is scream. I can’t get Rainbow Dash back if I don’t do this… I had to protect her…

Shaking my thoughts away, I sit down at a cafe and look around. Ponies are running across streets to get shopping, there are merchants selling their sweet smelling food, everything looks normal. Somewhere where it isn’t easy for someone with an orange coat to blend in with… A thought occurs to me, what if Flash Sentry never entered Canterlot? Maybe he is in the forest! Or in the mountains… The mountains are dangerous though, which mean ponies are least likely to venture.

“The mountains!” I exclaim out loud which draws some unwanted eyes towards me. Slapping my hoof against my mouth, I smile sheepishly and run out of the cafe heading to square before taking off. 

Looking down from my position in the sky, Canterlot looks miniature. As if it is a model version of Canterlot. The wind picks up, making me lift my head and focus on my task at hand again, looking for Flash. I race off in direction of Foal Mountain and hoping that Flash Sentry is there. 

About 45 minutes later, the tall mountain peaks come into view and helps me increase my speed. Soon enough, I’m weaving through the mountains calling Flash’ name and stopping every now and then to look around.

“FLASH! WHERE ARE YOU?” I yell at the top of my lungs. In response, I hear an echo but no other pony speaks.

“FLASH! FLASH! ANSWER!!!” I shout in anger, “PLEASE! I NEED YOU TO ANSWER!” Frustration builds when I don’t get a response. I thought… I thought he was here… I really did… I’m never going to get Rainbow Dash back now. I lost the most important thing to me. 

“AHHHHHHHHHH!” A scream belts out from inside one of the mountains near by. Someone’s in trouble!

“I’m coming!” I cry out hoping the pony hears me and I dart towards the sound. The sound leads me to a cave that I would have never found just flying by and as I land, I see a familiar orange coat and blue mane.

“Flas-” My voice fades in the sound of his screams. Paralyzed in fear, I stand there just looking at him. He withers in pain and his eyes meet mine, pleading but all I hear is his agonizing screams and my pounding heart. I’m frozen, I can’t even move. My breathing rate increases and it becomes difficult to get air in and out of my body. A searing pain erupted from the back of my head and I fall to the ground, hitting it hard, as the darkness consumes me.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My eyes flicker moment a moment before a searing pain hits my head and causes me to close my eyes again. Groaning, my hoof rubs my head and I slowly open my eyes again, this time taking my time. Though, I freeze when I hear his voice.

“Are you okay?” Flash Sentry asks from the other side of the cave we are currently in. 

“What happened?” I groan while trying to lift myself from the floor. I fail and fall to the ground but I keep trying till I’m standing unsteady on my hooves. The room spins and I lean against the wall to support my weight. 

“Well…?” I prompt him, my memory failing me. Everything was fuzzy, I only remember landing in the cave to find Flash and then… Blank. Flash stays silent, not even looking at me. I stomp my hoof and his head jerks up in response. Our eyes meet and everything comes back to me. The blood drains from my face in realization and I instinctively take a step back.

“N-No. It’s not what it looked like!” Flash sputters. Crippling fear runs through my veins and I keep my distance.

“Not what it looked like? You hit me over the head! You are-are a m-monster!” I spit out, taking another step back. This pony was not my best colt friend. He was a monster. “What happened to you? Were you always a monster? Were you even my best colt friend? Why did you leave? Why?” I fire question after question at, not stopping. I need answers and I am done waiting.

“I can’t tell you! No! Of course, I was! And I can’t tell you! I can’t!” He yells to me, tears well up in his eyes and begin rolling down his cheeks like rivulets. It looks at it physically pains him not to tell me, it looks like he regrets everything.

“Why can’t you tell me!?” I yell suddenly very frustrated. He left and he has no explanation? I need to bring him back. I need to.

“I just can’t!” He shouts, “Why are you even here?” he continues exasperated.

“I’m looking for my best colt friend! But he isn’t here.” I stare at him venomously, I know my words are harsh but if he couldn’t explain, then I would leave. Flash suddenly slouches and that’s when I see how much he hasn’t slept or eaten. He looks significantly smaller and thinner. I falter when I see him like this, my inner feelings fight with my mental reasoning. I should go but I can’t leave him like this… I want to know why… He was my best colt friend, I want to understand. So, I ignore my brain telling me to go and walk up to him and help him lie down closer to the entrance in the light.

“Wh-What?” Flash blinks utterly confused. I look at him and harden my face, it’s time for answers.

“I’m going to tell you why I’m here but you have to tell me what is wrong with you and explain why you left. You are going to tell me everything. Nothing less.” I state looking at him in his eyes. Flash nods and I see the honesty shinning through, it’s enough. As I sit down nearby, he waits for me to speak again.

“I’m here because I was looking for you,” I start, “I have to be honest and say that I didn’t plan to look for you…” Hurt flashes through his eyes but I keep going, “I thought you had made your choice. I thought maybe you didn’t love Twilight anymore and you didn’t want to deal with it anymore. But you left without an explanation, leaving Twilight heartbroken and alone. Dash…” My voice cracks when I mention her, her hurt face appearing in my mind and leaving. “She was the only one who really stayed by Twilight but then… I-I di-did somet-something st-stupid…” I slip into a silence, tears building up and I blink them back.

“What did you do, Soarin? What happened?” Flash asks, needing to know more. How can act so concerned? He’s not even my friend!

“Don’t act like you care.” I growl at him. Flash shakes his head and looks to the ground. When he looks up again, he has a poker face and makes a motion for me to finish what I was saying.

“I…Cheated on Rainbow Dash…” Flash didn’t change expression, “But I had a good reason!” I quickly add in but their is no justification to what I did… Or almost did… I sigh and shake my head, “Look it doesn’t matter but I made a promise to Rainbow Dash and I fully intend to do it. It’s the only way she’ll listen to me so that I can explain.” I finish and look away. The mountains look haunting and lonely from this view, I observe. There is no life and silence fills the space. It’s so empty…

“What’s the promise?” Flash asks, even though I’m not looking at his face, I know he’s wearing a skeptical mask.

“I promised to bring you back. To explain.” I state simply, there is no point in beating around the bush. After a pregnant pause, Flash answers in a grim voice.

“You know I can’t do that, right?” 

“You have to. It’s my last chance.” I look back at him with a serious expression. It’s true, he is my last chance. 

“I can’t.” He repeats. Desperation and anger fills every crevice inside my body and I explode. I can’t hold it in anymore.

“What do mean you can’t?!? Do you NOT care that you are ruining my only chance to salvage my relationship?!?” Standing up, I glare at him but he simply doesn’t take my bait.

“You ruined your own relationship. That’s your fault.” A burst of anger throws all my logic away.

“WELL, I’M SORRY I CAN’T BE PERFECT! I MADE A MISTAKE BUT AT LEAST I’M TRYING TO FIX IT! BUT YOU WON’T HELP ME!” I howl at him. HE DOESN’T UNDERSTAND! 

“I CAN’T! I’M GOING TO HURT YOU IN THE END AND THERE IS NOTHING I CAN DO TO PREVENT IT! IT IS GOING TO TAKE OVER AND I’M GOING TO BE POWERLESS TO STOP HIM! THAT’S WHY I LEFT! I DIDN’T WANT TO HURT THE ONES I LOVE THE MOST! ESPECIALLY TWILIGHT!” He cries while bursting into tears, I stop short when I register what he said. 

“What did you say?” I ask, my heart pounding. Flash Sentry’s eyes widen when he realizes what he said, he visibly gulps.

“I can’t tell you…” He says turning away.

“You said you couldn’t protect us from IT and that you didn’t want to hurt us.” Confusion weaving through my brain, “Hurt us…? Protect us from IT…? Being useless…? Flash, you have to tell me what’s going on and I don’t give a bucking for your excuses.” I glare at him.

“I CAN’T-I CAN-” I interrupt him before he can finish.

“YES, YOU CAN AND YOU WILL! Now sit down and explain.” I bark at him. I’m done, he is going to explain. Flash sighs and looks away, he wears a defeated expression and finally he nods. 

“I don’t know where to begin…” He mumbles, struggling to look up at me.

“Start from when all this began.” His head looks up and I catch his eyes, showing him how serious I was about getting an explanation out of him. Flash takes a deep breath and starts his story.

“It all started a couple of months ago…”

To Be Continued...
> Finding Him Part II Flash' POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Continued...

“A couple of months ago, I would start to black out more often… I would end up somewhere in the middle of the Everfree forest with no knowledge how I got there but the scary part was that… I was covered in blood.” But I felt good in blood, “I didn’t know where I’d be going or what I was doing. It made no sense to me. I me-”

“Wait a second. Stop. What do you mean black out more often? Has this happened to you before? Why is it so bad?” Soarin interrupted while holding out his hoof. I groan at his impatience, but he was persistent. I never meant for him to find out like this…

“Maybe… Maybe I should start at the beginning of when it started, when I was only a young colt. I knew that I was different… But how different, I only discovered a couple months ago. I had… Abilities, per se. I would black out once in awhile and then wake up in places I had never heard of or seen before... “ I struggle to keep my composure, it was such a different time then. I had been terrified…

“What do you mean abilities?” Soaring cuts in before I can continue. WIth a shaky breath, I keep telling my story, ignoring his interruption. 

“It scared me.” I loved it, the voice in my head says. “There were times that I thought I was going crazy!” I chuckle a bit but in the back of my head, I knew that somehow I was going crazy. “I came accustomed to sleepless nights and I had a bad temper… I remember one time… My abilities almost costed somepony’s life…” I whisper while getting lost in the memory.

Flashback

“Tag you’re it!” I screamed at the young colt I was playing with and ran off in the opposite direction. The young colt laughed and chased after me, extending his neck far out to touch me.

“I’m going to get you!” yelled the young colt, while gaining speed. I shook my head with a laugh and galloped faster.

“You can’t get me!” I shouted, finally getting to the safe zone and stopping. Breathing heavily, I let out a chuckle when I saw my friend scowling at me. I stuck my tongue out at him and squished my face together, I couldn’t see very well when I did that. My colt friend then came running at me, full speed with no intent to stop and he hit me really hard. I got really angry after that and I used my strength to bring harm to a pony. 

I remember beating that colt until he was bleeding all over and yet, I didn’t have a scratch on me. I could feel the adrenaline seeping through my veins but what scared me was that… I liked it. I couldn’t take it… My mind was telling my body to stop but… My body, it didn’t listen. Finally after what seemed like an eternity, my body complied and I ripped myself from the colt. He was barely moving but I think he got really mad too because he retaliated and hit me.

I must have gotten really mad and blacked out because the last thing I remembered was that I roared and charged at him again…

Later at night, I found myself in the forest covered in… In blood… I thought it was the colts and I felt so disgusted with myself, I was petrified. I didn’t know what to do, so I ran. I kept running and running until I came home. My mom passed away when I was younger so it was only my dad and me. When I walked through the door, my dad was writing and calculating equations for his huge science thing that he was working on. 

“Dad…?” I remember asking and he looked up. He was shocked and he even looked scared. 

“Son…” He breathed out, “What happened?” He asked while coming closer to me with a cloth that he grabbed from the table. I bursted into tears.

“I-I do-don’t kn-k-know d-da-dad!” I cried out, rushing forward to hug him. My dad clutched me hard to his chest while I sobbed. I felt the fear rush out of me when my dad hugged me. He felt safe and like home. It was a moment between son and father.

“Flash… You have to try and tell me, okay?” My dad said softly after a couple of minutes of silence. I nodded in his chest and let go of him. He gestured for me to sit down and knelt in front of me. He used the cloth to wipe away the blood and grime that covered me. I took a shaky breath and explained what happened to him in full detail. Horror filled me when I realized what I had done in the end, that colt could have been dead. Fresh tears had started when I realized that and it was even scarier when my dad looked at me.

My dad had always been such a loving father and always got me out of all my troubles. He helped me with homework, he went to all my races, he cooked for me, he was like a regular dad should be like. Though, as a scientist, he would often have to leave to go to his lab for experiments. I often went with him and helped him out, little did I know that it would be a mistake.

Though, the moment my dad looked up, I was thought I was going to see understanding but still disgust in his face… But I was wrong. I was very much wrong. When he looked up, he wore a mask of guilt. 


End of flashback

“I didn’t understand why he wore that expression. He left after that… But he always came back and took care of me though he killed himself a year later. My dad… He left behind notes and labs. I didn’t understand until I got his letter last year. He had it dated so that it could later be mailed when I was old enough. It explained everything.” I gulp and shake a bit while looking up at Soarin.

“What did the letter contain?” Soarin asks gruffly, after I stay silent for a few moments.

“I was experimented on… My dad, like I said before, was a scientist. His entire life was devoted to science and he was trying to figure out how to cheat death. To become immortal. I never knew when I was younger but I was his rat. He loved me a lot but he used me,” I spit out the word used, “But that’s not the only thing, he used my mother too. My mother died when I was even smaller than a colt but she killed herself because of his experiments. She didn’t have the heart to take me too though.”

“So, you were a lab rat? But how does this fit in with what you’re telling me?” Soarin asks confused. 

“My dad explained in the letter that when I was younger, I had a rare the rare disease of lymphocytic leukemia. My mother left me because she thought I would die later too but she was wrong. My dad, he didn’t want me to die because his beloved already died so… He used me and experimented on me to find a cure. He cured me but he also changed me. He changed my DNA and I got… Abilities per se… I’m stronger, I can do things but I black out and don’t remember things. I… I have a voice inside my head that keeps telling me to kill and… I can’t… I became… I became a monster. I am a monster.” When I finish my sentence, I look away knowing that I will lose my best colt friend ever. I am a monster, I’m a murderer and most of all, I’m an abomination to the world. 

“Did you ever kill somepony?” Soarin asks quietly. I shake my head no but I almost did. Almost.

“Why didn’t you tell us?” He asks simply, I shrug. Tears stinging my eyes, I swallow and look at Soarin.

“I couldn’t… H-How could I?” I question, it hangs in the air and all Soarin does is stare. The next thing he does surprises me, he hugs me. I thought he would run but… He didn’t. He’s still here!

Not for long… The voice laughs evilly. 

You won’t kill him! I scream at the voice. Oblivious to the voice in my head, Soarin lets me go and sits in front of me. 

“Why didn’t you leave? I’m a monster!” I cry out to Soarin. My heart clenching, I force myself to look at him straight in his eyes.  

“Because when I was down and needed help, you were there. Now, it’s my turn to help you. You aren’t alone anymore, Flash. You deserve to be happy after all these horrible things that your father did to you.” My lip trembling, I smile for the first time in days. The burden of doing everything alone seems to be lifted a tad lighter than before. 

“I still love him after everything, you know? He was the only family I had left after my mother died.” I whispered, glancing around the cave. Mold covered the stones and jagged holes were everywhere showing the last effects of mother nature. 

“He was family, so of course. But you know... He only wanted to save you. He may have done things wrong but his intentions were pure.” Soarin says softly. I shrug and let silence envelope us. A moment passes and when I look at Soarin, he is deep in thought. Curious, I tilt my head to the side and send a questioning expression in his direction. 

“Oh my Celestia! I figured it out! Do you have your dad's labs?!?” Soarin shouts and jumps to his hooves. I nod, though I am still confused.

“Yeah, but why?” I ask, scrunching up my nose.

“Maybe… Maybe we can reverse what your father did. Twilight,” I flinch at her name, "Can help us, I’m sure. All we need to know is what he did and how.” Soarin says smirking. He glances at me and I grin widely even with my heavy heart. Hope swells in my chest and I see a future ahead. A future with no monster.

Maybe, I can finally be with Twilight.



> Leaving It All Behind Celestia's POV
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	As we set off from Canterlot, I couldn’t help the worry that passed through me as I flew to Ponyville with my sister, Twilight had always been a dutiful student and even as an alicorn with all her responsibilities, she always found time for me, her teacher. It made no sense that she hadn’t sent a letter for awhile. Something really bad must have happened… And with this monster on the loose, what’s going to happen to my kingdom?

“Sister, is thou alright?” Luna asked next to me, placing her hoof on my shoulder. My sister always knew me best, she would know if I were ever upset or worried and even by looking at her, she and I shared the same look. We were frightened for our kingdom and Twilight Sparkle.

“Twilight Sparkle is missing and this creature is worrying me. We need to protect the ponies and find Twilight Sparkle.” I say softly, looking back ahead. Grass filled fields fly by and ponies wave as they spot us flying above them. My heart swells with happiness for the ponies, the ponies who believe in my sister and I. We can’t let them down…

“Thou will be alright, sister and Twilight Sparkle, too.” Luna says strongly, her honesty shining through her words. Doubt fills my chest but I don’t voice my thoughts, this is no time to lose hope. I sigh and concentrate on the flight, we were almost at Ponyville. 

Later, the small, colourful city comes into view and we land in the square, frightening some blue stallion that was playing his guitar and singing. He sounded really sad and sullen while singing.

“Sorry, sir.” Luna says to the stallion who looked at us with huge eyes before bowing and running off as fast as his hooves could take him. Smiling a bit at his awkwardness, I turn towards the crowd that has gathered in the square.

“Princess Celestia, what are you doing here? Is everything alright?” Mayor Mare asks me while walking up to me and then bowing in respect. Her glasses low on her nose, she sends me a questioning glance and looks around to the other ponies who hold worried facial expressions. 

“Do not worry, Mayor Mare. I am here looking for Twilight Sparkle.” I say to cease her worries, she already has so much on her plate being mayor and she does not need to know that one of her citizens are missing or that there is a creature on the loose.

“Oh, okay. That’s good, your highness.” Mayor Mare replies before heading back into the crowd. Sighing, I spot a familiar rainbow coloured mane in the distance, I call out to her.

“Rainbow Dash!” Her head whips in my direction and shock fills her features. Bright red eyes meet mine and I take a second to observe her. She supports a red nose and watery eyes which shows me that she has been crying. This can’t be good…

“P-Prin-Princess C-c-Celestia!?!” Rainbow sputters out, her hoof coming up to wipe the tears on her face. 

“Rainbow Dash, are you alright?” I ask while taking a step closer to her. Twilight Sparkle could wait a couple minutes. Luna soon joins me and quickly accesses the situation.

“P-Princ-Princess L-Luna!?!” Rainbow Dash says shocked, “Wh-what are you doing here? I thought you were at the castle... “ Rainbow Dash gulps and swallows before looking up at Luna and I. 

“We came hither looking for Twilight Sparkle,” I see her eyes water when Luna mentions her name, “We wilt speak to her. It is urgent.” Luna finishes. Rainbow Dash shakes her head and looks at us again while tears gather in her eyes.

“She’s in her tree house. Your highness, I must leave.” Rainbow Dash’ voice cracks at the end and she holds in a sob before flying away. Worry settles in, everything seems to be crumbling. The creature… Rainbow Dash… What next?

“Wait! Rainbow Dash! Where are thou going?” Luna calls to the flying mare but she gets no response and sadly shakes her head. 

“We must leave, sister. To the treehouse.” I speak softly to Luna who nods discouraged and trots in the direction of the tree house. 

When we get there, the wind is picking up and we catch sight of Twilight Sparkle’s door violently hitting the frame and then opening again. The door is cracked with the force of the wind and it hitting the frame so many times. I canter to the door, hold it open and enter the treehouse, it is awfully quiet. I walk up the stairs and find no sign of life. The room is turned upside down and everything is scattered. Dread fills me when I realize that she must have left… But then I hear the soft snoring of somepony. I eye the closet and open it, Spike’s inside. 

“Spike.” I say shaking him away. His eyes flicker open a bit before adjusting to the lighting and looking at me.  

“Princess Celestia?” He asks, his voice sounding very sleepy. He rubs his eyes and gets up and out from the closet, “Why are you here, your highness?”

“Do you know where Twilight Sparkle is?” I ask anxiously. He shakes his head no and I turn to Luna who came upstairs. She wore a sad expression.

“What’s wrong?” I ask her, she was supposed to check downstairs and ask Twilight Sparkles neighbors if they had seen her.

“Sister, Twilight Sparkles saddle bags art gone and she took her spell books with her. She is not here.” Luna says gravely. Fear hits my core and the world seems to crumble beneath my feet. I mask my face and try to calm my racing heart. My student was gone… Twilight Sparkle would never leave without saying something. What happened for it to come to this? Has she heard of the creature? Has she gone to hunt it? Why did she leave?

“We must fi-” Before I can finish my sentence, I am interrupted by a familiar voice behind me.

“Where is Twilight? Where is she? I need to find her! It's important!” 

Flash Sentry.