Shadows of the Past

by Double Rainbow

First published 28th of February, 2014

(Sequel to A Path Long Forbidden) Flash now suffers from his past choices, and regrets everything he did. Unfortunately, Flash now suffers from depression because of his actions. As Flash struggles, he begins to question his future.

Story is a sequel to A Path Long Forbidden (must read first).

Ever since Flash had his incident, he has been regretting his decision, and is now has the pressure of possibly losing his job he worked so hard for and losing a close spot to his beloved Princess Twilight Sparkle.

Flash is now suffering from depression, and with nopony wanting to talk to him anymore, Flash questions his sanity, and, in what direction will his life go as he struggles to pull himself out of his depression. Just how long will it take for Flash to finally crack, or with somepony help him before that day comes?

Cover Art Done By ZhaoZoharEX.

Chapter 1: What Cannot Be Undone

Flash stirred in his sleep, then jolted awake and sat up. He was sweating all over his pillows and sheets. Another nightmare. He thought to himself. When will they stop?

Flash recalled his dreams like it just happened yesterday, where he had ruthlessly killed the Captain of the Royal Guard. It haunted him through the day and while he slept, reliving the memories through his dreams, only to wake up holding his pillow in a headlock.

It was now 3 days from the incident. Flash breathed in and exhaled, then rolled out of bed. He didn't care what time it was, he was well aware that if he went back to sleep, he would be put right back into the imaginary fight for his life. Which he didn't want to re-live anymore.

Flash slumped over to his mirror tiredly. After he killed Captain Jagged Wing, he was suspended from guard duty and had a date to attend a Royal Court where the Princesses of Equestria would decide his fate based on hearings from other ponies and Flash himself, and the court date was today.

I'm either going to be jailed or expelled from the Royal Guard. Flash thought grimly.

Flash stared at his reflection. He looked worse than normal. His hair was a total mess, his fur was dark with sweat. Flash sighed and went to the bathroom to shower. He didn't care how long he was in there for. He just wanted his worries to disappear.

As the warm water splashed over Flash he began to break down in tears, "Oh Celestia, what have I done with my life? All my years of serving are going to be for nothing! No amount of ribbons, medals, or reputation will help me now! I'm done for!" Flash cried through the water.

Flash finished his shower, dried himself off, and headed back to his mirror. I feel like my reflection is my only friend. Flash darkly thought as he stared at his mirror image. Ever since the "incident", Flash was completely ignored, all ponies from every corner of the Castle and beyond avoided him out of fear. At breakfast, lunch, and dinner, he sat alone.

Flash sat back down on his bed, still in tears, he curled up and began to fully cry. All I want is someone to talk to. Just, a friend, but all of them are gone. Even Twilight is afraid of me now. I don't deserve to live! Flash cried through his thoughts. Flash didn't bother putting on a jacket in the cold morning air, he burst out of his room and ran down the hallway.

As Flash passed one of the newer guards, he called out to him, "Flash Sentry! Sir! Where are you going?"

Flash ignored him, Why should you care? Nopony else does! he thought as he ran on. The guard began to chase after him, "Flash Sentry! Wait up!" He called after him.

Flash ran to the nearest balcony, and when he arrive, he looked over the edge, I hope you all enjoy life without me! Since you obviously don't care! Flash thought to himself, then he leaped off the edge. As the guard behind his skidded to the edge he saw the orange body fall to the ground.

"FLASH SENTRY!"

The guard dived after Flash, soaring fast, since Flash wasn't flapping his wings at all, the guard could catch up the Flash quickly, and it helped that the guard's armor weighed him down with made him fall faster.

The guard scooped Flash out of the sky and back up to the balcony, when finally let go, Flash stomped around the guard, "Why did you do that?" He asked sharply.

"B-But sir. You were going to kill yourself. I'm not going to sit idly by and watch." The puzzled guard responded.

"Well maybe I just wanted to die. It's my business why I do, so leave me alone!" Flash yelled and stomped off.

The guard stood on the balcony for a few moments, staring at Flash, completely baffled at what he just hear, he ran off to tell someone.

Flash stomped back to his room and slammed the door shut. Angered, he laid back down and drifted back to sleep.

Knocking jarred Flash from his sleep. He rubbed his eyes and peered at his clock. 6 o'clock in the morning. Wow I actually had a good sleep for a few hours. At least until whoever woke me! Flash thought to himself.

The knocking came a second time, "I'm coming, I'm coming hang on." Flash called out. When he opened the door, he was met by three ponies. His two friends, Dust and Night Breeze, and behind them was the guard Flash met earlier.

"Flash! What the buck are you thinking? Why did you try to commit suicide?!" Night Breeze yelled at Flash with worried eyes.

Flash stuck hoof at the guard behind then, "You..." He started angrily. "I told you that it was none of you business! What do you not understand about that!" Flash lunged at him but Dust and Night Breeze blocked him.

"Flash! What has gotten into you! Why are you acting like this all of a sudden?" Dust questioned Flash.

Flash struggled for a bit and was thrown back by his Dust and Night Breeze. "Because nopony cares about me anymore! Everypony is avoiding me! I've been suspended for doing what I love most, and I just killed our Captain! How do you expect me to feel?" Flash yelled back, beginning to tear.

Dust and Night Breeze flashed looks at each other, then back to Flash. They walked over to him, "Flash..." Dust began.

"No! Don't try to tell me otherwise! I know you're avoiding me because you don't want me anymore!" Flash cut off.

"What?" Dust gave Night Breeze a confused look. "Why would we ever do that Flash? We never ignored you, we were just extremely busy fixing everything up after the - uh - 'incident'." Dust told Flash.

Flash glared at him, "You and I both know that's not true! Stop trying to convince me otherwise!" he shouted, tears beginning to well in his eyes.

Night Breeze stepped forward, "It is true Flash. We weren't ignoring you. Why didn't you come talk to us? Instead of sitting here crying, or trying to commit suicide! Flash, this isn't you. You'll usually full of pride and walk with your head high, but this - this just isn't you. Flash - how are you feeling?"

Flash flashed his eyes over to Night Breeze, "How am I feeling Night Breeze? I don't know, I just personally murdered the Captain of the Royal Guard, and now was avoided by everypony under the sun? I keep having nightmares about the fight with the Captain with nopony to talk to? I guess I'm a little depressed!" Flash cried out.

"Flash, we didn't know. Dawn Light had to tell us." Night Breeze pointed to the guard who was still standing at the door.

"Hi." Dawn Light called from the doorway.

Flash wasn't convinced, "I don't care. Nopony cares about me anymore." He retorted

"No Flash. We do care. If nopony cared about you, why did Dawn save you." Night Breeze asked.

Flash was stumbled by this, and stayed quiet. "That's what I thought." Night Breeze commented, "Flash, if you need to talk to us, we are here for you. You know where we are. Just knock." Night Breeze soothed.

Flash nodded and went to his bed and laid down. Maybe I should just stop sulking and get out of this room. Not to commit suicide this time. As the three ponies closed the door and left Flash in silence again, he quickly got up and walked over to the window near his bed. He gazed out at the gorgeous green hills and beautiful sunrise. Along with that he could faintly hear birds chirping. All the sounds put Flash at peace.

Why can't I just be normal again? He wondered. Why have I become this way. He sighed. He really never wanted this day to come. The day where he could lose everything he worked for. Flash then walked over to his closet and opened it.

Inside was his armor. The helmet nice and polished, the body frame still partially bloody from his fight. The thought made Flash shiver. To the right of his armor was his Royal Guard Uniform. A uniform similar to the Wonderbolts', but instead of blue it was white, and the Wonderbolts' iconic bolt logo was replaced with a shield and blue star.

Flash slipped into the uniform, buttoned on his ribbons and stars, then went to stand in front of his mirror. He gazed at himself, nicely combed mane, his fur was clean and flat against his body. Flash then grabbed one of the Royal Guard logos, and moved it a bit, to put it back into place from not wearing it for days.

He then lifted his right hoof, and inspected his rank that was sewn onto the uniform. Senior Royal Guard. It made Flash beam with pride, which is something he hadn't felt in days. Flash cracked a smile, then inspected his rank on the other side of his uniform.

Flash then posed in the mirror, he liked the way he looked. So he headed out of his room and trotted down the great halls of the Canterlot Castle to the castle garden. When Flash arrived he saw two guard ponies standing near him, and they inched away.

"Hey guys." Flash called out cheerfully. The two guards exchanged glances and then back at Flash, "Hi." One called back.

Flash trotted over to the edge of the garden. The outdoor garden overlooked the town side of Canterlot, while the indoor one had you staring at mountains. On this one you could even see the ponies walking on the streets below, but still high enough where you couldn't hear the sounds of the city life, and have some peace and quiet.

The guard ponies walked up to Flash, one on each of Flash's sides. "Are you ok?" One asked him.

"Just fine. Why?" Flash asked. The guards exchanged another glance. Then one put a hoof on Flash's shoulder, "Because we're worried about you, since you tried to kill yourself earlier this morning. We just don't want anything to happen to you. A lot of the guard ponies would agree with me." He told Flash.

Flash looked at the guard with clouded eyes. I guess these ponies really do care about me, and it was just me not wanting to talk to anypony. He concluded in his mind. "I know. I just wanted some fresh air, I appreciate the concern."

The guard nodded and the two ponies backed away from Flash and returned to their positions. Everything was going just fine. Flash actually felt at peace.

At least until the memories started coming back.

Flash began recalling the horrific memory of his fight with Jagged Wing. Flash put his hooves on the side of his head and rubbed his temples viciously, No, no it was going so well. He moaned through his thoughts.

The memories flooded every thought he had, and Flash mentally couldn't take the stress.

In a few fast moments, Flash felt his legs buckle, his heart raced and his vision began to fade. In the background he heard his name being called, "Flash! SIR!" He heard. He began to faintly see a pony's hooves grabbing him before Flash completely blacked out.

~

Flash awoke lazily, unsure of where he was. He had an oxygen mask on his muzzle and all kinds of wires attached to him. Wha - What's going on? He wondered to himself. Where am I? He looked down at his body, only to noticed that he no longer had his Royal Guard Uniform on, but instead was replaced with a white apron.

Flash drowsily looked around the polished white room, not a pony in sight. At least until the door knob shook, then turned, and a pony walked in.

"Ah you're finally awake." The pony broke the silence.

Flash tried to sit up, but only fell back down again due to his dizziness and exhaustion. The pony rushed over to his side and put a hoof on his chest, "Hold on there sport, you're in no condition to leave. At least until we think you can handle yourself on your own." He told Flash as he took off his oxygen mask.

Flash stared at the pony, "Who are you? Where am I? What happened?" He questioned the pony quickly.

The pony smiled, "I am Doctor Malace. You're in the Canterlot Hospital after you collapsed in the castle garden. We think you had a severe anxiety attack and caused to you black out, you've been unconscious for six hours." Doctor Malace responded.

Flash couldn't believe what he had just heard, "A - An anxiety attack?" Flash said in disbelief.

"Yes sir. An anxiety attack. It was lucky that somepony found you and brought you here, or the consequences could have been a lot worse." The Doctor stated. "Do you know why you would have one?" He asked.

Flash stared at him, "No, sorry." He lied. Flash knew exactly why he had the anxiety attack, but didn't want to say it. "So, when am I able to leave?"

The doctor looked at him grimly, "Well when you first came in your heart rate was through the roof, so we want to make sure that all your body functions are stable. We had trouble just getting you on the bed, you kept thrashing about." The doctor turned to the monitor displaying Flash's heart rate.

"So far so good. If it keeps up, you should be able to go soon. For now, why don't you try getting up, slowly. I'm sure your fully awake by now." He told Flash.

Flash slowly tried to sit up. He felt a little dizzy, but not as dizzy as before. He sat up fully and then began to detach all the wires on him, then proceeded to slide out of the bed and onto his unstable hooves. The doctor held him all the way, but even with his support, Flash's unsure hoof placement made one of his legs collapse, but he regained his balance.

Flash breathed in and exhaled, then began to walk slowly. He got faster and faster, and had his balance back in minutes, and the doctor no longer needed to hold onto him. Flash was able to walk, and trot around the small white room.

"Well." The doctor began. "I wasn't expecting you to recover so quickly. How do you feel?" He asked Flash.

Flash stopped walking around and looked the doctor, "Fine. I was dizzy before, but not anymore." He told him.

The doctor nodded, looked at the heart beat monitor, then looked back at Flash, "I guess you are free to go home then. Your clothes are in the closet over there." He pointed a hoof to a wooden closet near his bed. "I'll give you some privacy." With that, the doctor left the room, and Flash was alone again.

Flash slipped back into his Royal Guard Uniform and opened the door of his room. The doctor nodded to him and began to walk off. "Er - Doctor!" He called out. The doctor turned around. "I just want to say, thanks." He told him. The doctor smiled and walked down the hallway. Flash then headed in the opposite direction to the main lobby.

When he entered the main lobby, he was met with the two guard ponies who brought him to the hospital. When they saw him, they both stood up and walked over to him.

"Are you ok sir?" One of them asked. Flash nodded, "Thanks to both of you I am. I owe you my life. Thank you." He told them.

The guards nodded, "Guess we ought to go home then sir. We'll escort you to your room back at the castle." The other guard said.

Flash nodded his thanks, and the two guard ponies lead the way out of the hospital and on the street. When Flash walked out of the hospital, he was stunned by the amount of ponies who had gathered to learn about the Royal Guard who had collapsed in the castle and sent to the hospital.

Camera flashes stunned Flash, and he put a hoof over his eyes, "Ugh, guys could you stop with the pictures?" He pleaded.

One of the guard ponies stepped up and boomed his voice throughout the street, "Do NOT take any flash photography of us! Anypony that does will be detained!" He called out. With those words all cameras were pointed down.

"Thank you." Flash whispered in the guards ear. He nodded, and the three ponies continued their walk back to the hospital.

Upon reaching the castle the usual two guards standing at the entrance gate nodded and one looked at Flash, smiled, and said, "Welcome back sir." Flash smiled and replied, "Thank you."

Flash followed the guards up to his room, upon the way saying thank you to guards who responded, "Welcome back sir."

When Flash got to his room, he nodded to the guards his thanks and they walked off. Flash opened the door and turned on the lights in his unusually dark room. When the lights flickered on he was greeted with an unexpected surprise. A lot of the guard ponies Flash knew were standing in the room, at once, they all shouted, "WELCOME BACK FLASH!"

Flash couldn't help but smile. I guess this seals the deal that they do care about me. "What?" He began. "What did you do this for?"

Night Breeze walked up to him, "To celebrate you coming back from the hospital! You gave us all a good scare there man! The news of your accident spread like wildfire throughout Canterlot!" He told him. Excitement bursting in his voice.

Flush smiled at hit, "Well thanks guys. This really means a lot to me." Night Breeze smiled and leaned into him, "I guess we do care about you Flash." He whispered. Flash nodded at him, "I care about you guys too." He whispered back. Night Breeze turned around to the crowd of ponies in Flash's room, "Let's celebrate! Woo hoo!"

With that, every pony in the room began talking to their friends and drinking drinks, laughing, and just having a good time. Flash walked around with a glass of water. Happy with how many ponies actually cared about him. He smiled happily. Dust and Night Breeze came over to Flash eventually sat down next to him and began talking.

"So you enjoy it Flash?" Dust started. Flash nodded, "Can't thank you guys enough. This really helps my situation."

Night Breeze nodded, "That was the point. We all care about you Flash. You may not know, but to a lot of the new guys, you're a bucking role-model. They look up to you." He told Flash.

Flash looked at Night Breeze in astonishment, "Really?" Flash knew he was independent, but other ponies look up to him? He couldn't believe it. It made him gleam with pride.

Flash smiled at his friends, "Thanks a lot guys, but you should get going. We do have a court later today. In an hour to be exact." Flash said as he looked at the clock which told him it was 12:04 in the afternoon.

As the party ended and the ponies cleared out of Flash's room, Flash was relieved that he had time to himself again. That was really nice of the Dust and Night Breeze to do that. He thought to himself.

About 5 minutes after the last pony was gone, a knock was at the door. Flash walked over to the door and when he opened it, he met the one pony he was not expecting. Princess Twilight.

"Uh - Hi." He stuttered. Twilight smiled at his humility. Flashed looked stunned. Well, I may be troubled, but she still looks beautiful. This better not happen again. I don't need anything else to go against me later today. He panicked.

Twilight smiled at Flash, "I heard about what happened. I just wanted to make sure that you were ok. I miss my guard pony." She told him.

Flash gulped and blushed, She missed - wait WHAT?! Flash screamed in his mind. He blushed, "Um, thanks Princess. You probably noticed I couldn't show up for the past few days and I assume you know why." He said.

Twilight nodded, "Flash. I want you to know I will do everything I can to help you this afternoon. I know that what went on between you and the Captain was not your fault." She soothed.

Flash looked up into her eyes, "Thanks, Twilight. That means a lot. I've been struggling recently. As you've also heard."

Twilight nodded grimly, "Yes. I know what happened, and I don't care. I'm just glad you're ok. A lot of the guard ponies look up to you Flash. You're a role-model for those in, and outside the Royal Guard. When ponies heard about your anxiety attack, everypony wanted to know if you were going to make it. Not to mention I got flooded with the press asking about my reaction to this." Twilight giggled.

Flash blushed, "Well. Thanks, that really helps." He told her.

Twilight looked at Flash, "Well. I'm just glad you’re all better. I was so worried about you." She said as she closed the distance and hugged Flash.

Is she...GAH! Flash couldn't believe what was happening. I'm really starting to think she likes me as much as I like her. Flash thought to himself.

Flash began to stroke Twilight's mane gently, as she began to sob on his shoulder. "I just was so worried at the thought you could die!" She cried. Well that just added to my theory. Flash concluded in his mind.

Flash backed away from Twilight, "Twilight, I'm ok. No need for tears." He smiled at her. "Still the most beautiful princess in Equestria." Oh Celestia did I just say that? Buck me.

Twilight's cheeks turn hot pink. "Thanks, Flash." She looked at him through teary eyes. "I need to go now. We are prepping the court, and Flash. Shine brighter than a shooting star." She told him, smiling.

Flash nodded. When Twilight left and the door was shut, Flash leaped onto his bed and closed his eyes. What could be more perfect? I secretly love a princess when I'm not allowed to but what if she loves me back? Will they allow it? Flash thought as he tossed and turned as usual.

He looked at the clock. 12:35 PM. Flash sighed. The next few hours were going to be the hardest in his life. Flash knew he was going to have to fight for his right to be a Senior Royal Guard. He worked his whole life to earn this position and title, he wasn't about to lose it.

Flash trotted around his room nervously for a while, at least for 10 minutes until he calmed down. It was less than 20 minutes when Flash decided to go down early. He made sure his Royal Guard Uniform was in tip-top shape, and headed out. On his way to the courtroom, every guard he passed saluted him.

Flash eyed them curiously. What are they saluting me for? I'm not Captain. He wondered. When he approached the large courtroom doors, he was met by two guards, both saluted him. Then told him he could not enter yet.

"Why not?" Flash asked them.

"Because you haven't been called in yet, sir."

"Well when will that be?"

The guard shook his head, "I can't give you an exact time sir. Sorry."

Flash frowned and sat down. He sighed. This was the moment of truth. Whether he would stay in the Royal Guard or not. He hoped that he would be at least not thrown in jail, for Flash feared the worst.

Flash could hear Celestia's voice boom from inside the courtroom. "Attention all attendees. The court is now in session! Let the accused be brought in!" Her voice echoed through the massive room.

Flash sighed, and the two guard walked over to him. "Are you ready sir?" One asked.

Flash nodded, "More than ever." He gazed ahead, eyes beaming with pride. It was his time to shine.

The massive doors in front of him glowed with a yellow aura, indicating that Celestia was opening them. As they swung open, Flash walked forward. On his left was most of the Royal Guard. On the right were citizens of Equestria. In front of his podium were three others, each of the Princesses behind it Flash caught a glimpse of Twilight giving him a soft nod. Flash gulped. He nervously shuffled towards his podium.

Some citizens booed him as he walked over. One even shouted, "Murderer!" at him. Flash sulked. Thanks. That's what I need. Flash thought of what Twilight had told him, Shine brighter than a shooting star. Flash raised his head, showing his pride.

Flash sat down at his podium in front of Celestia. He stared up at her, and she rested her gaze upon him.

"This court is now in session!" Celestia called out as she slammed her gavel down on her podium. A guard then stepped in front of Celestia and raised his right hoof, "All parties raise your right hoof." He began.

This was the moment Flash had been waiting for. His time to shine, and prove he was worthy to stay in the Castle as a Senior Royal Guard.

Author's Notes:

You all probably know why I put the "Dark" tag on the story. Other than that, I hope you all enjoy the second chapter in the series, I know I enjoyed it. This has made me realize how much I love writing. Sorry I made it a cliff-hanger, ran out of time!

Chapter 2: What Goes Around, Comes Around

Celestia levitated some papers on her desk and tapped them, then turned to Flash. "So, from what I know you murdered Captain Jagged Wing out of hatred. Is this true?" She tapped her papers again. Tension filled the air, Flash felt like we was choking on it.

He breathed. "That is completely false, Princess." Flash told her. An eruption of anger came from the plaintiff consisting of three ponies.

"That's a lie! You murdered him you -" A yellowish-orange mare began to shout at Flash. "Silence, Solar Heart. It is not your turn to speak. Let us hear his side of the story." Celestia interrupted her. "Continue Flash Sentry."

Flash nodded, "Thank you. As I was saying. I was forced to kill the Captain. He threatened me with death, and I had to defend myself."

Solar Heart sprang from her seat again, "And you had to defend yourself by killing him?!" She screamed.

Flash shot Solar Hear an annoyed look and Celestia silenced her with a motion of her hoof, "Solar Heart, if you interrupt again I will be forced to have you removed from this courtroom." She told her. Solar Heart then sat down frowning.

"The previous time I was in the Captain's office he had forcefully struck me across my muzzle, and head." Flash continued.

"So hard that my helmet flew off. Then the next time, he began to walk over to me and I knew he was going to do the same thing. So I defended myself. Do you expect me to let him physically hurt me Princess?" Flash asked her.

"No, Flash Sentry." Celestia sternly responded.

Flash nodded, "On that note, I think I speak for the entire Royal Guard when I say, he was a terrifying, and abusive Captain. We all hated him." He added.

Celestia looked to the of the Royal Guard attendees, who were in the seats behind Flash, "Is this true?" She asked them. The guards were slow to respond but soon nodded in agreement to Flash's statement.

Celestia eyed them, "In what ways did the Captain - er -abuse you?" She asked Flash.

"Well for starters your honor the morning after Princess Twilight Sparkle became a princess, the Captain was debriefing us in the room, when he struck a newer recruit in front of us all." He stated.

"Was there a reason to why he struck the recruit?" Celestia asked.

Flash nodded, "There was, and that reason was for wanting to be the new Princess' personal guard. After that recruit was beaten by the Captain, he gave the position to me. Which is when the real trouble set in." He told her.

As many of the eyes looked at Twilight who was sitting to the left of Celestia, she began to blush with embarrassment.

Celestia nodded, showing that she understood. She then turned to Solar Heart, "Any objections?" She asked her. Was that sarcasm in her voice? Flash asked himself.

"One, Princess. I've known Jagged Wing since he was a foal. He was always so nice. He would never lay a hoof on anypony! Then to hear this? I just can't believe it!" Solar Heart told the Princess.

Celestia eyed Solar Heart questionably, "Solar Heart. What were Jagged Wings hobbies? When he was a foal." She asked her.

Solar Heart smiled and said, "Oh why Princess! He loved to play soccer and help others with daily chores. That kind of stuff!" She said all-too cheerfully.

One of the guard attendees walked up behind one of the two guards behind Flash and whispered something to him. The guard nodded and allowed the mare to stand next to Flash.

What's going on? Flash asked as he stared at the guard and the new pony, all the while Solar Heart kept ranting on how good Jagged Wing was.

Next thing Flash knew, a mare was standing next to him. Flash leaned over to her. "What are you doing?" He whispered in her ear.

"Helping you." The pony replied.

Flashed looked at him. "How so?" He asked.

The pony smiled at him, "I knew Jagged Wing when he was a foal too, and he was nothing Solar Heart says he was."

Flash nodded, "So do you want to testify against her?" He asked her hopefully.

The pony nodded. Sweet! Flash cheered in his mind. Solar Heart is gonna be proven a liar now, and in court too!

"- I just remember that day when he flew through the clouds with the birds like it was yesterday." Solar Heart finished. Everypony was relieved to hear her finish. When she finally finished after what seemed like countless minutes of her talking away, Celestia turned to Flash, "Does the defense have anything to say?" She asked him.

"Princess, I would like to call a pony to the stand to testify to that statement." Flash said confidently.

Celestia looked at him quizzically, "Who?" She wondered. Flash stuck a hoof at the pony next to him. "Her." He said.

With a nod from Celestia, the navy blue mare walked over to the stand on the right of Celestia and sat down.

"What is your name ma'am." Celestia asked the pony.

The pony looked back at her, "Elina, Princess." She responded.

"And what information do you have to share with us about Solar Heart's testimony?" Celestia questioned Elina.

Elina cracked a smile, "Well I'd like to point out that Jagged Wing, was never nice at any point in his life." She began.

An explosion came from Solar Heart, "Objection!" She yelled at Elina, who remained calm.

Celestia silenced Solar Heart with a hoof once again, "Overruled." She looked back at Elina, "Continue Elina."

Elina nodded, "Anyway, I know Jagged Wing wasn't nice because I knew him when I was a foal unfortunately." She explained. "He would tease me, push me into mud puddles deliberately, and when he got his cutie mark before me, he called me 'Blank Flank' everyday as if that was my real name." Elina teared as she recalled her foalhood memories.

Elina glared at Solar Heart, "So yes, you could say I am calling you a liar. Because you are."

Celestia turned her center of focus back to Solar Heart, "Is this true?!" She asked forcefully, anger hinting at her voice.

Solar Heart shifted her hooves nervously, "Some-what, Princess. He wasn't always nice, but he was sometimes."

"So do you admit to lying?" Celestia pressed.

Solar Heart frowned, "No! I'm not lying. I just know that Jagged Wing wouldn't kill or hurt a pony so severely as Flash Sentry described it."

"Objection, Princess." Flash cut in.

"Proceed Flash Sentry." Celestia nodded.

Flash leaned forward a little to make eye contact with Solar Heart, "When was the last time you talked to Jagged Wing. Muzzle to muzzle?" He asked her.

Solar Heart gave Flash a quizzical look, "Well, right after he became Captain of the Royal Guard. So, about a year ago. Why?"

"Because I think he changed after he became the Captain. Got a taste of - power." Flash told her. "You know what they say. Power corrupts."

The room fell silent. Ponies mouths hung open in shock of what Flash had just told them.

Celestia finally broke the silence, "Do you have anything to say to that?" She asked Solar Heart.

Solar Heart lowered her head and shook it. Celestia nodded and rummaged around with her papers. After a few moments of looking over her notes and talking to Luna and Twilight she raised her head. "This court has reached a verdict." She announced.

Every pony stopped and stared at her, reporters with their pens on their papers, gazing in awe.

"We find the defendant, Flash Sentry, guilty for murdering the Captain of the Royal Guard with full intentions. He shall be removed from the Royal Guard staff immediately and moved off castle grounds." Celestia proclaimed.

Flash's jaw dropped along with everypony else in shock. Even reporters couldn't write. They just stood there in silence, like they just witnessed a murder happen. His life was over. This can't be happening. He thought.

Flash's eyes welled with tears. The one thing he cared about the most, gone. All of those years, worth nothing now, and he could never get them back. The two guards lead Flash out of the courtroom, Flash's head hung in dismay.

They lead him to his room. "Pack up, Flash Sentry. We will wait for you out here to escort you out of Canterlot Castle." There was nothing Flash could do but nod. He walked into his room and jumped into his bed and began to cry.

This is really it. He cried inside his thoughts. It's really over. For good too.

A soft knock was at the door. "Flash Sentry?" A familiar voice called out. Flash propped his head up, wiped his eyes, and slumped to the door.

With a swift twist of the doorknob he opened it. In front of him was the elegant, lavender-colored Princess Twilight.

Flash didn't care. "Yes Princess?" He sighed, the depression obvious in his voice.

"I'm so sorry Flash. I wish you could stay, but -" Twilight began.

"I do too, but Celestia made her decision, and I have to abide to it." Flash interrupted.

Twilight lowered her head as Flash began to pack his things, his Royal Guard Uniform, his clothes, and everything else that belonged to him.

"I understand." She murmured. Flash was finished packing and walked over to her.

Flash place a hoof under her chin and lifted her head up so she looked him in the eyes, "No need to fret." He told her.

Twilight stared into his eyes. The mixture of light and dark blue that swirled in them captured her gaze. "Where will you go?" She asked him quietly.

Flash's face darkened with sadness, "I'm not sure. I'll probably stay in Canterlot. I don't want to leave just yet."

Twilight nodded, "Well if you want I'll accompany you to the gates." She offered.

"Thanks. I could use the company." Flash accepted, and smiled.

Flash finished packing and him and Twilight, accompanied by two Royal Guards, headed down to the main gate of the massive Canterlot Castle. The walk seemed to take forever in Flash's mind, as he left everything he loved behind. His reputation, his love, his way of life. One thing he worked his entire life for - gone. All in a matter of minutes.

When they were approaching the gates, Twilight waved off the guards, who bowed and walked off. Leaving Flash and Twilight alone. As they made it to the entrance of the castle after what seemed like the longest walk of Flash's life, they stopped and faced each other.

Flash sighed. "I guess this is it." He sadly commented.

Twilight grimly looked at Flash. "I'll try to get Celestia to re-consider. You were one of our most valuable guards." She attempted to cheer him up.

Flash wasn't in the mood to even smile, nor grin. "Good luck with that." He gazed up into Twilight's beautiful amethyst eyes. He locked his vision with her. "I am going to miss you Twilight."

Twilight smiled, "And I you Flash. I did enjoy your company. I felt like you were the only pony I could talk to without my friends here." She complimented. Partially blushing, but not noticeable.

Flash barely cracked a smile. "Thanks, that actually makes me feel a little better."

Twilight wrapped her hooves around Flash and hugged him. "I'm going to miss you Flash. I really am."

Flash hugged her back. He sniffed and began to back away from Twilight, who continued to squeeze him. Twilight was holding him so tightly Flash began to choke up.

"Twi-light." He gasped. "Cant - breathe." Flash wheezed through quick breathes.

Twilight quickly dropped him. "Oh! Sorry Flash!" She apologized. Flash inhaled as much oxygen as he could and rose to his hooves. "It's ok." He told her.

It's now or never Flash. Might as well, since you're no longer in the Royal Guard. Flash looked at the lavender princess again. "I guess this is good-bye Twilight." With that, he took her hoof into his, lifted it, and gently kissed her hoof.

Twilight blushed uncontrollably, her cheeks turning hot pink instantly. "Flash - I - I" She stuttered, unsure of what to say.

Flash looked at her, "No need to say anything." He smiled. With the flick of his tail, he turned and walked out of the Castle. Twilight standing there, blushing in awe about what just happened. Twilight grinned and turned around to head back to her room. The only thing on her mind being Flash.

Flash sighed happily. Well, at least I finally did what I've wanted to do. I got to kiss Twilight. Even though it was formally, it was still a kiss. He thought to himself.

Flash trotted down the streets of Canterlot, some ponies shooting him glares, which made Flash feel very uncomfortable. Other ponies that were reading the newspaper gazed at him and back to their newspapers then back to him, as if they couldn't believe what they were seeing. Flash slowed his pace to a walk, and continued to the nearest Inn.

When Flash arrived at the nearest Inn, he saw the great sign on it. Stormhouse Inn. Flash walked in and the teller behind the desk sat upright. "Hi." He greeted Flash.

"How's it going?" He responded.

"Good enough."

"Good. Any rooms available?"

"Yeah. Can I get your name?"

"Flash Sentry."

The room fell still, and the teller looked up at him. "The same Flash Sentry in here?" The teller gave him a newspaper. The headline wrote, Senior Royal Guard Dishonorably Discharged After Murdering Captain! Flash's heart sank.

He sighed. "Yes. Does it matter?" He asked, praying it did not.

The teller looked at him sternly. "Well, the manager doesn't want any trouble makers in here. Which he believes military rejects are." He told him. "So technically, yeah. I'm sorry Mr. Sentry, but I'm afraid I can't give you a room."

Flash felt his heart fall to the pits of his stomach. He was going to be out in the cold tonight. Flash hung his head and walked out. He looked up into the sky. It was getting dark. Flash sighed and headed down the street. The streets were mostly deserted by this hour.

As Flash walked past a house, he peered into, only to see a family laughing over a massive dinner. Flash's own stomach grumbled, but he didn't care. He continued on and turned into an alleyway. He got a large box and squeezed into it. As he lied down in the cardboard box, he looked up into the sky once more.

He began to cry. Is this really what my life has turned out to be? He cried in thought. To be a homeless pony? Not wanted by anypony else? Tears ran down his face. He closed his eyes, to give way to a teary sleep.

~

Flash woke up slowly, he stretched, only to kick the box off of him, which when he did, he was met with hard, cold concrete. Flash stood up and stretched his back and legs. That was the worst sleep I have ever had. He proclaimed.

Flash looked around him. No pony was in sight. The street was bustling with life though. Flash's stomach grumbled. Better head to the diner. I'm starving.

Flash walked to the diner, with ponies staring at him from all directions again. It felt like their eyes seared through his fur.

Flash opened the door and stepped into the diner. Ponies around him enjoyed their food and didn't bother to look to see who had walked in. Flash sighed with relief.

He walked over to the nearest empty seat at the counter and sat down. A mare came up to him and asked him if he'd like some coffee, which Flash accepted. When he got it he slowly sipped the warm drink. It felt so good to run down his dry throat.

Flash ordered some eggs with toast, and awaited them hungrily. When receiving them, he gobbled them down and places some bits on the table. He then got up and proceeded to the door.

When Flash stepped out onto the stone pathway of the Canterlot street, he noticed the sun was high in the sky, looked like almost noon.

What now? He wondered. Flash really wasn't sure what to do. He was usually following Twilight around, being her guard. Now, he was guarding nothing. Nothing but himself.

Flash walked up the street until he was ambushed by a pony with a camera around his neck and a fedora hat on. He also had a notepad and pen attached to his hat.

The pony ambushed him with a flash of a camera. Flash was dazed by the sudden flash of light. He shook his head, only to be confronted by the pony holding a pen and notepad and staring at him.

Flash stepped back a little, "Uh. Can I help you sir?" He asked the pony.

The pony smiled, "Yes! I just want to ask you some questions about recent events!" He said all-too cheerfully.

Flash frowned. "I'd rather not talk about it right now." He moaned as he started to walk past the pony.

The pony followed him. "Oh please sir just a few minutes of your time!" He pressed.

Flash shook his head. "I don't want too!"

"All I need is just a few questions answered!" The pony insisted.

Flash sighed heavily. He stopped and turned around. "Fine! Let's go to the park. I'll answer your questions then." He concluded.

The pony smiled ear to ear with joy. "Oh just splendid!" He cheered as he and Flash made way to the Canterlot Public Park.

When they reached it, they sat down on a park bench, and the pony took out his notepad and pen. He cleared his throat and asked Flash his first question.

"What was your first reaction when you were discharged from the Royal Guard?"

"I felt like my world just collapsed on me." Flash answered.

The pony took the notes down. "Why did you choose to kill the Captain, and not just subdue him, then tell somepony?"

"Because the Captain would have killed me if I didn't kill him first."

The pony's mouth dropped open. "Really?" He asked.

Flash nodded, and the pony scrambled to write words. He was obviously in shock at Flash's answer.

The afternoon continued with question after question. The pony shocked at some of Flash's responses to the questions. When the notepad was practically full of notes, he closed it, slide it back into his fedora hat and nodded to Flash.

"Thank you for your time. Mr. Flash Sentry." He stuck his hoof out to shake.

Flash shook his hoof. "No problem. I got nothing better to do." He told him.

Flash sighed as he watched the reporter walk off. Hopefully that gets some attention. Maybe Celestia will change her mind. Flash hoped in his thoughts, but was doubtful.

Flash stayed in the park for a while longer. Staring at the fountain in front of him. The water gently splashing into the basin seemed to put Flash at rest. Other ponies laughed and giggled throughout the park, none of which Flash heard, all his attention was on the fountain. He was stuck in a daze.

Flash got up and walked over to the fountain. He gazed into it, staring back at his own reflection. The orange fur, the navy-blue mane that was so carefully slicked back in a stylish form. He smiled, and his reflection smiled back.

Flash took out a bit and place it in his hoof. One for good luck, and hope for one day my troubles may be gone. He thought and tossed the bit into the fountain. A soft plunk sounded as the bit hit the water and sank slowly to the bottom of the basin.

He felt a pain in his heart. The pain of failure, regret, and depression. Only difference is this time, I'm going to stick through it and take the coward's way out. He confirmed. He walked out of the park and down the city streets. He didn't have a set destination, he just walked.

As he was walking Flash heart of familiar voice calling his name. "Flash! Hey Flash!" The voice called.

Flash turned around, to see a dark-purple stallion with a black mane trotting towards him. "Hey Flash!" He called out.

When the pony got closer Flash recognized him. "Night Breeze?" He breathed, quite shocked.

"Yeah! Whats up?" He responded.

Flash looked around at the ponies looking over to see who was shouting back and forth. "Nothing much. You?" He told Night Breeze.

Night Breeze was finally muzzle to muzzle with Flash. "Aw I'm all good. I came to find you to see how you were dealing with life."

"It sucks." Flash said grimly. "Where's Dust?"

Night Breeze tilted his head. "He wasn't given the day off like me. So I came to talk to you." He told Flash.

Flash looked at the Canterlot Clock-tower. He frowned, "At four in the afternoon?" he asked.

Night Breeze could only shrug. "Well I had other stuff to do." He told him.

Flash wasn't convinced. "What kind of stuff?" He questioned Night Breeze.

"Oh, you know. Food shopping...and stuff."

"Anything else?"

"Not really."

Flash still wasn't buying it. "So it took you more than like, four hours to go food shopping. For one pony." He retorted.

Night Breeze didn't know what to say. "I guess." He shrugged.

"Whatever." Flash really couldn't care less. "Wanna walk?" He offered. Night Breeze nodded simply.

As the two stallions walked side by side, they received looks of curiosity by the public.

Flash was first to break the silence. "So how is everypony doing back in the castle?" He asked.

"They are doing ok." Night Breeze responded. "They miss you though."

Flash was taken back by this. "What? Really? I'm missed? Even after what I did?" He asked.

Night Breeze nodded. "We all know you did what you did only out of self-defense." He told Flash. "We really want you back Flash. Really. A lot of the younger recruits looked up to you."

Flash stared at his friend. "I - I didn't know." He stuttered.

"Well now you do." Night Breeze grew serious.

Flash saddened his look. "How are the Princess'?" He asked nervously.

Night Breeze darkened his look as well. "Princess Luna and Princess Celestia are fine. Though Princess Twilight is very upset about you leaving."

Flash shuttered where he stood. She misses me? "Really?" Flash breathed.

"Yeah." Night Breeze continued. "I've even heard rumors about her sobbing in her chambers. Flash, I'm starting to think she likes you."

Flash stepped back, "W-What?" He stuttered. "A Princess? That's not allowed and you know that!" He yelled at Night Breeze.

Night Breeze leaned back and smiled. "Wow Flash, calm down! Why are you so defensive?" He chuckled awkwardly.

Flash looked away. "Nothing. Just, don't joke about stuff that. You know that's one of the higher offenses."

Night Breeze kept smiling. "Well I know that Flash! You don't have to tell me."

The two stared at each other in silence. Other ponies took no notice of the stare-down though.

Flash broke the silence. "So - I guess you better get back to the castle. They are probably wondering where you are."

Night Breeze nodded. "Yeah. I'll put in a good word that your all ok."

"Thanks." Flash replied. "Oh and tell Dust I said hi!"

Night Breeze began to trot away. "Sure will! See ya around Flash!" He called back.

Flash sighed as he watched his friend trot off down the stone pathway. "I'll see you later too." He mumbled under his breath, sad to see his friend leave him alone. Flash stood in the middle of the street as he watched his friend trot off. He then turned and headed off to a restaurant that he'd been wanting to try.

Flash had his filling dinner and enjoyed the restaurant. I might just go there again. Flash though happily. He hadn't been this full in ages. He headed off to his original alleyway and cardboard box to sleep in.

Flash couldn't care less about sleep right now though. He had too much on his mind. Twilight, upset he was gone. All the recruits wanting him back. Flash almost wished Night Breeze hadn't ran into him earlier today.

Flash found his box again and curled up in it. Flash sighed. Another night in a box. I finally understand what it is like to be a homeless pony. He darkly joked with himself in his thoughts.

Flash began to slip away into sleep. His tiredness from the food weighing in his stomach made him exhausted. Flash curled up, closed his eyes and gave in to blackness.

~

Flash awoke with a rumble. He blinked lazily, then closed his eyes again, only to be shaken awake by another rumble. Flash crawled out of his box and stood up. As he looked up he frowned when noticing it was the middle of the night.

Ugh, who is sending off fireworks at this time of night? He wondered sleepily. He walked out onto the street with other ponies.

When another rumble occurred and explosion followed right after it that up the sky in a blaze of fire. Sending a shower of stone and brick onto the ponies on the street. Flash dove into his alleyway again, avoiding tons upon tons of stone landing on ponies, sending them running.

Flash ran back out onto the street and looked at the Canterlot Castle. Flash found that part of the North-Eastern tower had been missing and the spiral staircase was showing. Flash's eyes went wide as he say a great winged beast flying above the castle.

Flash thought of one thing. Get the citizens out of here. He turned around to the massive crowd and scream, "Dragon! Everypony get out of here! Move! Move!"

As the crowd cleared the streets, Flash took of in a full gallop to the castle. As he made his way up to it, he saw the massive red beast spew more fire at the castle, shattering the stone. Flash dodged the falling debris and looked up. Flash's heart fell to the pits of his stomach when he saw where the dragon had struck.

The top northern side of the castle had multiple holes in it. The dragon had struck the Royal Chambers. Where Princess Luna, Celestia, and - Twilight were. Flash stood in awe as the stone came crumbling down around him. A tear ran down his cheek. Twilight. My love...

Author's Notes:

Well, how's that for a cliffhanger? I don't have enough time to fill in the full story, so I just leave it for the new chapter. That's how it's going to be and sorry since I know cliffhangers suck but I can't help it. I can't wait to start the next chapter though! Sorry if this chapter may seem a little boring. It was necessary though. I suffered a lot of "writers block" while making this chapter, but oh well. What are you gonna do about it? Enjoy the story!

Chapter 3: Second Sunrise

Flash stood in the street staring at the castle for minutes on end. It seemed like time slowed down, as stone piled around him, he stared at the now, partially blown castle. He had just witnessed his love possible get killed.

Flash shook himself out of his daze and galloped towards the castle, fighting back tears. When he reached the entrance, he wasn't surprised that no guards were there, so he let himself in. Even though he would have went in even if it meant getting through guards.

The long corridors, and fallen banners. Crumbling stone lay aside as Flash dashed through the hallways of the great castle. He felt himself getting exhausted from all the running, but he pushed himself to go on. He had to get to Twilight.

He could still hear the dragon roaring outside. Each roar sending chills down Flash's spine. For all he knew, Flash was thrusting himself muzzle-first into the dragon, who would surely kill him.

Flash skidded to a halt as he reached the Royal Chambers' hallway. He panted, exhausted from his run through the city. He looked around, trying to think.

Where did Celestia say Twilight's room was? Damn it! He cursed, then looked down a hallway that ended with a right turn. "That's it!" He exclaimed, and began running down the hallway.

Flash stopped at the entrance to Twilight's chamber. If not for the crumbling walls and torn banners laying on the ground around him, he would never have known the castle was being attacked.

Flash lightly pushed on the door, and opened it slightly, just enough so he could so he could see about half the room. As Flash peered around the room, his eyes came to rest on the silhouette of something lavender-colored sticking out from the rug. It could be a random object, since many things were lavender in the room, which Flash thought was rather stupid.

As Flash took a closer look, he noticed the corner of a golden crown sticking out from the object. It wasn't just a random object, but a pony. His pony, Twilight.

"NO!" He screamed, and barged through the door at Twilight. He couldn't run fast enough. He fell to his knees as he reached her motionless body. Flash closed his eyes as tears streamed down his face uncontrollably.

"Why now?" He sobbed. "Please don't leave me Twilight." He slowly stroke her mane. Flash had never been felt so broken before. His heart in two piece, he felt lost. Flash laid his head on Twilight ruffled fur. She was is very bad condition. Her fur and mane was covered in stone dust and she had cuts and scrapes all over her body in which blood trickled out of.

Flash put of hoof on Twilight's muzzle, and wiped the blood from her jaw. "I love you Twilight. Please don't go." He cried quietly. The moonlight shining on where they laid in the middle of Twilight's room.

Flash felt a jarred movement from under him. He lifted his head and look at Twilight, who laid motionless. Must have been my imagination. He thought, and dropped his head back down to the floor. He had his head of the floor for a few seconds until he felt the stirring again. Then heard a groan.

Flash picked it head up and smiled ear to ear when he saw Twilight's mouth moving to let out groans of pain. Flash was speechless.

"F-Flash." Twilight gasped, blood dripping from her mouth. She was badly injured. Flash put a hoof over her mouth, silencing her.

"Quiet Twilight, you need to rest." He whispered to her. "First, lets get you someplace else." All Twilight could do was nod.

Flash lifted Twilight onto his back and began to walk over to the door. As he neared it, another explosion went off near Flash, causing him to lose his balance and fall, sending Twilight a few feet away from him. Flash turned to look over his shoulder, and was greeted by the red dragon with an angry look on it's face.

Flash scrambled to his feet and grabbed Twilight to pull her into the corner of the room. He then stood in front of Twilight, using himself as a shield. "Leave this place for good!" He yelled at the dragon. Oh Celestia. What am I saying? I'm as good as dead!

The dragon roared and flung a paw at Flash with talons fully extended. Flash quickly evaded the path of the massive paw and charged back at the dragon. The dragon then tried to slam it's paw onto Flash, who jumped to the side, then onto the dragon's paw and ran up its arm.

The dragon furiously attempted to get Flash off of it. The dragon shook and pawed it's arm and shoulder, trying to hit Flash, who was too fast and agile for the clumsy dragon.

Flash finally made it up to the dragon's head, and turned around and bucked the side of it's face with all of his might. The dragon roared when feeling the shock of Flash's kick and shook violently. Flash lost his grip on balance and flipped backwards over the dragon's shoulder.

Flash tried to grab whatever he could, which ended up being the dragon's scales. His hoof hooked one of the dragon's scales, yanking it painfully. The dragon roared in pain. Flash tried to climb back up, but the dragon's violent shaking made it impossible for Flash to pull himself up, so he had to wait until the dragon stopped.

When the dragon finally ceased shaking, Flash hauled himself up and over the dragon's shoulder. The dragon didn't notice Flash climb back up, and had its eyes locked on Twilight, who was still slumped over in the corner. Flash noticed this and felt nothing but rage flow through his veins.

The dragon flung his paw at Twilight, talons extended out. Flash raced over the dragons shoulder and cocked his hoof back and send his hoof into the dragon's eye with more force than Princess Luna's 'Royal Canterlot Voice'.

Instantly, the dragon snapped his paw back to cover his eye in excruciating pain. He then rammed his shoulder with his paw, grabbing Flash this time. Flash struggled within the dragon's tight grip, there wasn't a chance he was getting out of the dragon's massive paw.

Flash was hoisted in front of the dragon. The red monster roared at Flash and then threw him against the wall inside the room.

Upon connection with the solid wall, Flash screamed in agony as he felt a crack from one of his ribs and pain shot through his body. Flash fell to the floor, gasping and holding his side.

The dragon shook it's head, still in pain from Flash's hit on his eye. Then focused on Twilight again, and cocked a paw back, talon's shimmering in the moonlight.

Flash gritted his teeth and stood back up slowly, and looked over to the dragon, who was beginning to swing his paw at Twilight.

Quickly thinking, Flash looked around and found nothing but pieces of stone. He grunted, and pick one up with a hoof. He aimed at the dragon's head, and threw the rock as hard as he could.

The rock hit the dragon's muzzle, causing it to stop thinking about Twilight, and focus back on Flash. The dragon growled at Flash, then threw the back of his paw at Flash. Being too wounded to dodge the paw effectively, Flash took the blow on the left side of his body, sending him flying into a dresser.

Flash smashed through the dresser, and dropped without a molecule of oxygen in his lungs. He gasped for air, rasping quickly. He knew he didn't have much of a chance, but at the same time he knew he had to keep fighting for Twilight.

He sucked in as much air as he could, and climbed to his hooves slowly. He turned back to the dragon, who once again had it's vision focused on Twilight, who was starting to become conscious again.

"Twilight! Move!" He tried to warn her, but she didn't hear him. One thing his yelling did do was re-attract the dragon's attention.

The dragon roared and swung a paw at Flash. He ducked, this time successfully dodging the strike. Flash looked around for something to use against the dragon. Flash noticed a rod sticking out of the wall, about a foot long that was used to hold the stone in place but know sticking out because of the destruction.

It'll have to do. He sighed, and ran towards the rod. The dragon repeatedly swung at him, and Flash dodged them by any means necessary. Whether it be ducking, jumping, or diving away from the massive dragon, he had to make it to that rod.

After the dragon swiped his the front of his paw at Flash, he knew it was know or never. Flash saw the dragon begin to slam his paw backwards, in attempts to back-hand him out of the corner of his eye. Flash ran at the wall, and when he was leg-length away from the wall, he leaped and put his hind legs on the wall, making Flash horizontal to the wall, and kicked off, making Flash back-flip into the air.

As the paw came slamming down where Flash was, Flash felt the fur on his stomach scrap one of the dragon's talons, slicing some of his fur.

When Flash cleared the dragon, it was too late for the dragon to pull it's paw back, and rammed it's paw into the metal rod sticking out of the wall.

The dragon roared back in agony and Flash looked up with a grin on his face, knowing he had badly hurt the dragon. It looked like the dragon's paw was stuck to the wall, but the dragon was refusing to pull his paw out of the wall. Now's my chance! This was Flash's only chance.

The dragon had lowered it's muzzle to deal with the pain, but this left it vulnerable. Flash raced towards the dragon's muzzle, staggering a bit because of his injuries. He reaches the dragon, and turned and bucked the dragon's nose.

With a shot of pain entering the dragon's nose, he reared back and roared. When the dragon leaned back he tugged on his paw, damaging his wound even more, but also loosening the rod's grip on his paw.

Finally, the dragon managed his paw free, and stumbled backwards, and tried to get a grip on something, but ended of hitting Flash, sending him flying into another dresser. The dragon fell out of the castle, then quickly opened it's wings and flew off. Flash groaned as he crawled from the debris, his body was lined with cuts and bruises and shards of wood sticking out from him.

Flash felt a sharp pinch in his left hind leg when he cleared the dresser. He looked around, to see that his leg was twisted awkwardly, but Flash gritted his teeth and struggled to his hooves. He looked out of the massive hole the dragon had left in the wall. The dragon was still visible in the distance, and Flash turned to Twilight, who was now conscious and beginning to stand up.

When Flash began to limp over to Twilight, the door seem to explode open, with guards flooding the room. Most of their attention was on Twilight, but some rushed over to Flash.

"Flash Sentry! What are you doing here?" One of the guards asked.

Flash was too exhausted to argue, so let out a simple response. "My job."

Other guards were lifting Twilight up and carrying her out of the room, when being taken out, she outstretched a hoof towards Flash.

Guards began to surround Flash and blocked his vision, "You need immediate medical attention sir."

"I know." Flash rasped, "Just make sure that dragon doesn't come back."

One of the guards stepped forward, "The Wonderbolts are on their way. They will chase it off."

Flash looked at the guard. "Well it looks like its headed to Manehatten, make sure Celestia knows so we can prevent any harm of the city."

The guard nodded and looked to another guard. "Tell Celestia, make sure she knows."

"Yes sir." The guard responded and took off to tell the princess.

Flash began to limp to the door, but collapsed to his knees from pain sheer pain. The guards rushed over and picked him up roughly, and Flash groaned and gritted his teeth at the sharp pinch in his side.

One of the guards called out, "Careful! He is badly hurt! He also saved our princess, treat him with respect." He told them.

The guards became more gentle on Flash as they carried him out of the room and down the infirmary. As Flash got the the medical center, doctors and nurses were waiting for injured, and they rushed Flash into the hospital beg and wheeled him into an emergency room.

Next thing Flash knew, an oxygen mask was on his muzzle and heartbeat monitors and all kinds of equipment were attached to him. Doctors stood around him, mumbling something inaudible to Flash.

A doctor began pumping a gas into Flash's oxygen mask, then put a hoof on his head. Flash began to slip away to dizzy blackness.

~

Flash woke with a daze, he heard slight mumbling, but it was nothing he could understand, for he was too tired.

"-Sentry." Flash caught some words coming from the doctor in the room. He looked down at his body. His body was covered in bandages, and his leg had a splint on it. "Mr. Sentry." The doctor repeated, and Flash looked up at him.

"Glad your awake, you've been out of a several hours now." He told him. Flash seemed shocked, "Really?" He asked, though his voice was muffled through the oxygen mask still on his muzzle. The doctor gently pulled the mask off of Flash and set it aside. "How do you feel?" The doctor asked Flash.

Flash looked around. "Fine. Why?" He asked.

"You just got out of major surgery. You had a lot of wounds, some small ones, others serious. Quite a few shrapnel wounds. Most patients feel stinging even after the surgery is done. Oh and you've got a visitor." The doctor said.

Flash looked confused. A visitor? Who would visit me? Probably Night Breeze and Dust. Only ponies I can think of. He thought to himself. "Who?" He asked.

The doctor scratched the back of his neck. "Princess Twilight, for some reason. She wouldn't tell us." He said shyly.

Flash's jaw dropped and his eyes went wide. WHAT?! Screaming in his thoughts, Flash couldn't comprehend the fact that she wanted to see him.

The doctor snapped Flash out of his daze. "Should I bring her in?" He asked him.

Flash closed his mouth and nodded. The doctor then walked out of the Flash's room and a few moments passed before he re-entered with Twilight following behind him. "I'll leave you two alone." He said and walked out, leaving Flash alone in the room with Twilight.

Flash rubbed the back of his neck with a hoof. "Um - Hi Twilight." He said shyly.

Twilight simply smiled at Flash. "How are you Flash?" She asked him.

"Good enough. Well, good enough for a cracked rib and broken leg." He responded dryly.

Twilight's smile faded and stared at the ground. "I just wanted to thank you."

It was Flash's turn to grin. "It was nothing Twilight. I was just doing my job." Flash paused. "Even if I was fired from that job a day prior."

Twilight looked back up at Flash. "It wasn't 'just nothing' Flash. You saved my life, and fought off a dragon while wounded! You deserve more Flash."

Flash smiled fully. "Thanks, Twilight. I doubt that this will change anything though." He said grimly.

Twilight took a step closer. "I think Princess Celestia will reconsider your discharge. This proves your loyalty and having to do what you had to do. No matter your past." She soothed.

Flash looked at her amethyst eyes. Always sparkling. Always beautiful. He though quietly. "I hope your right."

Twilight put a hoof on his bed. "I am right. You will be back on the Royal Guard. I promise." She smiled at him.

Flash nodded. "Thanks for the support." He smiled at her.

Twilight nodded. "I better get going. Get better soon!" She called to him as she left the room.

The doors closed with a slam as Twilight left the room. Flash sighed. So close, but yet so far. Flash turned to his side and covered up with the blankets. All that lingered in his mind was what Twilight told him. "I am right. You will be back on the Royal Guard. I promise."

Flash really hoped she was right. He enjoyed his position in the Royal Guard detachment, but still doubted any chance of getting back into it.

He looked out the window at the morning sunrise. It was only 8 in the morning. Flash realized that the fight had taken place in the middle of the night. This is only the second day of being homeless. The second sunrise, and I tried to do my former job. He thought to himself.

The next pair of ponies to walk in were his friends Dust and Night Breeze. They both had huge smiles on their muzzles.

Flash sat back up, seeing his friends, he tilted his head questionably. "What are you two so happy about?" He asked them suspiciously.

Dust was first to speak. "Oh nothin'. Just wondering why the Princess would be visiting you. That's all."

Flash sighed and face-hoofed. "Are we really getting into this conversation now?"

"If you want to." Dust replied.

Flash glared at him. "Well, I don't. Why are you guys here?" He changed the subject.

Night Breeze spoke this time. "Just checking up on a friend. We heard about what you did. Never thought a pony could take that much and still fight." He commended Flash.

Flash nodded. "I had to do what I had to do. Even if I wasn't a part of the Royal Guard. I felt like it was my job still."

"I understand." Night Breeze seemed to get what Flash was telling him. "You get that feeling and mind-set that you can't let go of. You'll be an old stallion and still try to jump into action." He chuckled.

Flash couldn't help but crack a grin. "You're such a comedian Night. You know that?"

Night Breeze shrugged. "Got to at least try to lighten the mood while you're like - this." He gestured to Flash's cast and bandages.

Flash looked at them and back to his friends. "Aw come on. I'll be out of these things in no time."

Dust gave Flash a quizzical look. "Um, hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you have a broken leg and rib. Don't think you'll be out of that in a while." He pointed a hoof towards the cast.

Flash dropped his head in disappointment, and Night Breeze nudged Dust. "Really Dust? Can't let him have one moment of happiness?"

"No. He's right." Flash cut in, still looking at the ground. "It's going to be forever until I'm out of this cast. I won't be fit to be back on the Royal Guard, if I even get a chance."

"Don't be so hard on yourself Flash." Night Breeze soothed. "I guarantee you'll be fine in a few weeks." He comforted Flash.

Flash lifted his head. "Thanks. When do you think they'll let me out?"

On queue, as if he was listening in, a soft knock came from the doorway. "Come in!" Flash called. Standing in the doorway was the doctor.

"So sorry to interrupt," He apologized, "but I need to check your injuries again. To make sure they are healing. I'm going to need your friends to step outside." He looked to Dust and Night Breeze.

Flash looked at his friends as well. "Just wait for me outside guys."

The duo nodded and headed outside to wait. The doctor then walked over sat down next to Flash.

"How do you feel Mr. Sentry?" He began asking.

"Just fine."

"Have you eaten?"

"Not yet."

"Are you hungry?"

"Very."

"I'll be sure to get you something." The doctor scribbled some notes on his clipboard. "Any pain anywhere?" He started up again.

Flash sighed. "No. How long is this going to go for?"

The doctor put the clipboard down. "That was the last question." He reared up on his hind legs and rest his front hoofs on the bed for balance. He then ran one hoof along Flash's ribcage, where he had the broken rib, pushing on every rib a little.

When the doctor reached the broken rib and pushed on it, Flash moved a little from the sharp pain that shot through his side. "You felt that?" He asked.

"Well it is broken. Doc, anypony would feel pain from getting pushed on a broken bone." Flash remarked.

The doctor simple nodded, then took his hoofs off Flash's side and scooted down to the end of the bed, where Flash's leg was. He began running his hoofs along it.

To Flash's surprise, he felt no pain while the doctor pushed on his leg. "Why am I not feeling any pain?" He asked the doctor.

The doctor looked at him. "Because your leg wasn't broken nor even fractured. It was merely popped out of place."

Flash couldn't help but drop his jaw in shock. He'd thought his leg was broken this whole time, but it wasn't. Thank Celestia. At least I won't have to spend weeks in a wheelchair. He thought in relief.

The doctor took the clips holding Flash's bandage on his leg. The then proceeded to gently unwrap Flash's leg.

Flash leaned forward to stop the doctor. "Isn't it a little early to unwrap it?" He asked, a worried look showing in his face.

The doctor simply smiled. "Nonsense. If it wasn't ready, you would have felt pain by now." With that, he continued to unwrap Flash's leg.

When finally done, the doctor pushed off the bed, landing on all fours. Flash looked down at his leg. It looked like it always had. Flash moved it a little, turning it in all directions, and it only hurt when he stretched it as far as he could.

The doctor nudged Flash, "Come on. Trying standing on it." he encouraged.

Flash looked at the doctor as he began to scoot off the bed. Flash but his two hinds legs on the white, polished tile flooring. He placed his right hoof last, due to Flash being nervous about him putting his injured leg on the floor. When it finally connecting with the tiles, Flash heaved forward and put his fore-hooves down on the ground.

The doctor walked next to the Flash's side as they went in circles around his room. Flash felt more confident with every lap they took. When they were finished, Flash sat back down on his bed, and the doctor took his clipboard and wrote move notes on it.

The doctor then turned back to Flash. "I'll be right back." He told him, and walked out of the room. As the doctor left, Flash's friends came back in.

Dust and Night Breeze seemed astonished seeing Flash sitting up. Dust was first to break the silence. "Thought you'd be in a cast." He gasped at Flash's leg.

Flash smiled at his friends. "Turns out it was just popped out of place. Never broke it."

Night Breeze smiled ear to ear. "That's great! Now you won't have to worry about anything!" He exclaimed.

Flash put a hoof up. "I gotta worry about this though." He pointed to his ribcage.

Night Breeze shrugged. "Who cares. It's one rib. Better than your leg!" He pointed out.

"True, true." Flash agreed. "I still have to be careful."

Dust stepped forward. "So when are you getting out?" He asked, eyes full of wonder.

Flash shook his head. "No idea. The doctor said he would be back soon so -" Cutting Flash off, the door swung open and the doctor came back in. "Well I have good news. You should be free to go as soon as we do one final blood test." He told Flash.

Flash signaled for his friends to go outside, which they did. The doctor began to run an IV into Flash and drew blood, then took it out and put the vials in a black, hard-cover container.

Flash peered over at the vials. "What do you need my blood for anyway?" He asked curiously. The doctor looked at him. "Just to make sure you have no infections in your bloodstream." Flash nodded his understanding.

The doctor turned to Flash. "I'll send a nurse in to escort you out of the hospital. I don't need you getting hurt and nopony hears you."

"Thanks Doctor - uh, what was your name again?" He asked.

The doctor simply smiled. "Doctor Skybreeze." He replied, "I'm also called Time Turner." and left the room. Flash tilted his head in awe. Where have I heard that name before? He wondered.

Flash remained in the room for several minutes before a nurse finally swung the door open and walked in. Flash smiled a greeting to her. "Hello there."

The nurse smiled back. "Hello Mr. Sentry. I'm Nurse Blueheart, I'll be helping you out of the hospital."

Normally Flash would have been taken back by her comment about 'helping' him out of the hospital, but he didn't feel like arguing. He simply got out of bed, being held by Nurse Blueheart for support.

When the two ponies exited the room, Dust and Night Breeze were sitting down next to the room waiting for Flash. When they saw him, they both stood up. "You going home?" Dust asked, shock in his voice.

Flash squinted his eyes. "Why not? You want my leg to be fully broken and stuck in here for ages?" He retorted.

"Oh, no no no!" Dust quickly responded. "I'm just a little shocked. That's all."

The group of ponies reached the entrance and the nurse waved goodbye and went back into the hospital. As the trio began to walk down the walkway, a grey mailpony came out of the sky and landed inches from Flash's muzzle.

"Hi there!" She joyfully exclaimed in Flash's face.

Flash jumped back. "Er, hi Miss. Can I help you?" He asked the mare.

The mare giggled. "My name's Derpy! I'm here to give you a letter from the princess!" She looked cross-eyed at him.

Flash knew something was off with this mare the second she started talking. "Um, thanks." He looked at the pink letter closed with a purple heart sticker on it. "One question ma'am. Who-" Flash cut off when he looked up to see that the mailpony was gone and up in the skies flying away. That is one odd mare. He concluded in his thoughts.

Flash began to open the letter when he felt breath on both of his shoulder. He looked over his shoulders to see his friends watching over him like a hawk. "Do you mind?" He asked them.

Dust rubbed his ankle. "Who's it from?" He asked shyly.

"None of your business." Flash retorted, and continued to open the letter. Flash pulled out a neatly written letter and began reading it.

Flash Sentry,

I have arranged a new court date for you to be re-trialed in regards to your position in the Royal Guard. I continue to press Celestia to let you back in. Also, I have got you a room in the hotel across from the castle so you wont have to sleep on the ground anymore! I left a little present in your room as well. Hope for the best!

Twilight Sparkle

Flash folded up the letter and looked towards the castle. In shock, Flash thought of one thing. I'm starting to think she loves me too, but it will never happen. Against rules, even if I'm not a guard, I want to abide to them. He looked behind and his friends were staring at him.

Dust broke the silence. "Well? What was it? Who was it?" He asked, his eyes wider than ever in wonder.

Night Breeze was equally curious as Dust, just not expressing it as much. Flash sighed and looked away. "Well." He began. "It was Twilight and -" Flash was cut off by a snicker coming from Dust, when Flash whipped around he saw him smiling and grew angry.

"Really Dust?" Flash felt himself raising his voice. "Is every interaction with me and the princess that fascinating that you have to laugh about it?" He said sharply to his friend.

Dust lowered his head, still partially smirking. Flash glared at him. "Get that smile off your muzzle or I'll smack it it off." He threatened. Dust immediately stopped smiling, and Night Breeze stood silent, no expression on his face.

"As I was saying," Flash continued. "you guys know that 5 star hotel across from the Castle?" Both his friends shook their heads. "Well Twilight got me a room there." Flash laughed as both his friends jaws dropped in amazement.

"No. Way." Night Breeze breathed. Flash smiled. "Yes way." He confirmed smiling, Dust surprisingly remaining quiet. Flash went to walk off to his new home and his friends chased after him.

Dust caught up first, "You are the luckiest pony ever! That hotel has everything!" He exclaimed smiling.

"Seriously! You are so lucky Flash!" Night Breeze agreed. Flash couldn't help but smiled. Thanks Twilight! I owe you one for this! He silently vowed.

Flash trotted happily to the hotel, his friends trailing behind, talking among themselves about how lucky Flash. When they reached the hotel Flash turned around to his friends. "You guys should head back to the castle." He told them.

'What? Can we see your room?" Dust complained.

Flash rolled his eyes at his friend. "Can I settle in first?"

Night Breeze nudged Dust. "Come on. He's right Dust, let him settle in first. Talk to you later Flash. Enjoy the room!" He tugged Dust and the two walked off to the castle across the street.

Flash went to open the door when they opened automatically when they detected him. Flash grinned. I'm gonna like it here. He stepped onto the soft red carpet in the hotel and looked around. Ponies were moving about, bell-hops were moving luggage from place to place around the huge lobby.

Flash finally spotted the check-in booth and walked over to the golden arches hanging over the tellers. As he walked up a stallion behind the desk smiled, "Hello sir. Checking in?" he asked Flash.

Nodding, Flash looked around at the magnificent place. He had never been in here before, his thought was interrupted by the teller. "Sir? Can I get your name?" He asked Flash.

"Certainly. Flash Sentry." He told the teller. The stallion flipped through a book and stopped at the last page. Then looked up at Flash. "Mr. Flash Sentry? Did Princess Twilight Sparkle reserve a room for you here?" He asked him, his eyes huge.

Flash nodded, "Yes. Where is the room if I may ask?" The teller pulled a key out and handed it to Flash, shaking like he was meeting a famous pony. "It's the penthouse sir! Wait one moment please!" He then dashed out from behind the counter and out of the room. Flash looked at his keys and then the direction he went in, wondering what was going on.

The teller finally came back at the same time two Royal Guards walked up behind Flash and stood at attention. Flash looked at the two guards and they saluted. He looked back to the teller questionably. "What is with the guards?" He asked the teller.

"Oh its because the princess requested that you have guard personnel assigned to you! That you be treated with the up-most respect!" The teller exclaimed, still acting like meeting somepony of extreme fame. Flash nodded, "Ok. I think I understand. I'll just head up to my room now."

The teller nodded. "Please do sir, and enjoy your stay!" He said as Flash walked off to the elevator, the guards following close behind.

As Flash entered the elevator, other ponies tried to get in, whom the guards blocked the entrance to saying the phrase, "None may pass!" Flash put a hoof on the guards' shoulders. "It's ok. Let them in." He told them. The guards nodded and stepped aside, and a few ponies entered the elevator and stood next to Flash.

One of them looked over to him. "You must be pretty important to have Royal Guards assigned to you." He commented. Flash simply shrugged, but didn't say anything. The elevator reached each ponies floor, then headed to the top floor for Flash's room.

When it finally arrived and the doors swung open, Flash stepped out and gazed up. The clear class roofing gave way to the clear blue sky. As Flash walked down the hall he saw that he had the very end room. He put his key in and twisted it, unlocking the door.

The guards stood at attention outside as Flash walked into the grand room. It was absolutely massive, art of all kind hung on the walls. A fancy dining room was over to the right and next to that was a grand kitchen with anything you could want. A nice set of black leather couches were aligned in a room next to a wall filled to the tip with books and a glass table in the middle of the set.

Flash noticed a medium-sized pink box with white stripes and a sparkling pink bow-tie next to the set of couches. He smiled and walked over to the box. He looked at a little card sitting on top of the box, so he picked it up and read it.

Flash Sentry,

Hope you enjoy your new home. Here is a little something to get you back on your hooves. Also, I heard that you once played and instrument, so I got one for you! Please accept these gifts as thank-yous' for everything you have done.

P.S. The new court date is one day from now, 1:00 sharp. I got it on the 'top priority' list.

Twilight Sparkle

Flash smiled ear to ear as he opened the box, for a golden case was inside. He lifted the case, but since Flash was surprised by the weight, he had to re-grip it and lift it out. He set it down and reached for the second item in the box. It was in a long cardboard box. A box in a box. Flash thought humorously. It's box-ception!

He pulled the box, wondering what in the word it was. When he lifted the top off the box, he was stunned to see an amazingly well polished violin.

Flash couldn't help but smile. He quickly thought back to his youth days, when he played a violin in his spare time, and he was good. He had been to one concert, but didn't like the stage fright, so he played alone. Flash picked up the beautiful instrument and bow.

What songs do I remember. He wondered. Then he suddenly put his bow on the strings and began playing one of his favorite symphony's. He didn't remember the artist, but he sure remember the notes. Before long, music was running throughout the penthouse. Flash danced as he played, enjoying every second of it. He felt like a filly in a candy shop.

After Flash finished, he set the violin and bow down and looked at the golden case he had set down on the table. He walked over and opened it. Flash's jaw hit the floor when he saw the contents of it. Inside was neatly stack rows of bits filling the case. Flash screamed through his thoughts, This has to be at least ten thousand bits! This could last me years!

Flash took a deep breath, closed the case, and continued his personal tour of the apartment. As Flash neared his bedroom, he stopped and took a step back. Next to his bedroom was a balcony with a full view of the Canterlot Castle and some of the city. Flash opened the doors to the balcony, sat down in one of the chairs and gazed across the street at the castle.

I cannot thank you enough Twilight. He simply thought. I love you so much. The thought pained Flash, and he didn't want to ruin his good time. So he headed back inside and headed into his room.

The room was just as spectacular as any of the other rooms. A king-sized bed and with a night table with a lamp next to it. A massive dresser was adjacent to the bed and on the opposite side of the dresser was a window looking out to the castle across the street. Flash sighed, he was enthralled as to how much Twilight had done for him.

Flash leaped onto the bed, enjoying the plush of the bed. Preferring it much more than the hard stone ground he slept on for the last two days.

Just as Flash closed his eyes, a soft knock was at the door. Sighing, he got and headed over to the door. When he opened it, it was no other than Twilight standing at the entrance. "Hi Princess!" He exclaimed, and stepped aside. "Please! Come in!" He offered.

Twilight blushed and walked in smiling, Flash closed the door behind her, then immediately rushed to her and hugged her with all of his might.

Twilight, being shocked at the sudden hug, lost her breath when Flash wrapped his arms around her. "Flash." She gasped. "I can't breathe all that well."

Flash let go of her immediately. "Sorry Twilight! I just can't thank you enough for what you've done!" Twilight backed off.

She giggled, "It's the least I could do Flash. You saved my life and sacrificed so much."

Flash simply smiled. It was all he could do. "Really Twilight. It was nothing." Twilight shook her head. "Well what do you think?" She asked, scanning the room with a hoof.

"It's amazing!" Flash exclaimed. "I've never been so spoiled before." He said shyly.

Twilight pointed at the violin. "Was that the right one? I wasn't sure." Flash nodded, "It most certainly was. You brought back my younger years with that beautiful piece of music."

The young princess smiled. "Can you play it for me?"

Flash nodded. "Certainly! Go have a seat on the couch. I'll be there shortly."

Twilight obeyed as she went to go sit down. Flash picked up the instrument and it's bow and played the four strings to make sure they were in tune. Then headed down to where Twilight was sitting patiently on one of his leather couches.

Flash cleared his throat and began to play. A soft song, then getting faster and faster gradually. At the peak of the song Flash's bow was moving so fast the hairs on the bow began to rip off. The soft sounds of the violin's music filled the air, Flash listened and danced to it as he played.

When Flash finally finished his song. Twilight simply clapped while smiling. "That was amazing!" She cheered. "I never knew you were such a good musician!"

Flash blushed at the compliment and looked at his hooves. "Well, I forgot I was until you got me this. I can't thank you enough. You've made me so happy Twilight. If there is anything I can do, just tell me." He told her.

It was Twilight's turn to blush. She stood up and walked over to Flash. "Flash you don't have to. I'm serious. You have done enough. Only one thing left that I promised to help you with."

Flash opened his mouth to stop her, but she cut him off. "I'm going to get you back into the Royal Guard." She told him. "I can think of no pony more fit than you."

She then quickly leaned in and kissed Flash on the cheek. "And you have my full support." She told him, her cheeks burning bright pink. Flash was also blushing uncontrollably.

"Twilight, I - uh." Flash stuttered, looking for the right words. Twilight raised a hoof, silencing Flash. "Hush Flash. I'm going now. I just wanted to see how you were settling in. Enjoy your stay." She said as she walked up to the door and left Flash.

Flash was just frozen in shock of what just happened. She just kissed - me. I can't believe it! She does love me! Nothing could possibly ruin this! Flash ran to his room and leaped onto the bed, completely star-struck. Flash smiled, "Love you Twilight." He whispered gently so nopony outside heard him.

Flash then remembered the one last obstacle he had to overcome. Winning the trial that was just one day from now. Flash didn't want to go, but he knew the remainder of his life would come down to Celestia's decision tomorrow. Flash shivered in his bed, he was scared to go. He took a deep breath and told himself, "I can do it. I will win."

Flash yawned, he was exhausted after being up so late, with the castle attack. He fell over on his side and drifted away to sleep. Dreaming about his love, Twilight.

Author's Notes:

Sorry if this chapter really dragged out, but it was necessary, you really can't skip something like this, and so I apologize to anyone who hated this chapter for that reason. I put a lot of effort into this chapter, to make it as good as possible, but don't worry! I've got a lot more to go with this story though. Also I only got the idea of Flash being a past musician from listening to so much Beethoven while i was writing this and being a musician myself, so I thought I should make Flash one. I promise the next chapter will be much more interesting!

P.S. For anyone wondering, I haven't put a 'Gore' tag on my story because I personally don't find such small injuries to be "gory". I do know when enough is enough though, for I could have made this chapter a lot worse.

Chapter 4: The Threat of Rebirth

Flash's eyes opened sluggishly. Somepony was pounding at his door to his room. Flash groaned, turned over and put the pillow over his head.

Flash moaned when the knocking didn't stop. The shout came from outside, calling his name. "Sir! Sir Sentry!" The voice called, then Flash remembered about the royal guards Twilight had assigned to him.

He slumped out of bed and dragged his hooves across the floor over to the door. When he opened it, one of the guards was standing there staring at him with wide eyes.

Flash yawned. "What do you need?" He asked the soldier tiredly.

The guard pointed a hoof at the grandfather clock in the living room of Flash's apartment. "Sir! You have a court to attend to in one hour!" He raised his voice.

Flash stepped out of his room and stretched his eyes wide to see the clock, even then it was still blurry. He managed to read out 12:02 on the great wooden clock. Flash panicked and raced back inside his room and into the bathroom.

He looked at his reflection. The tangerine pony with a messy navy-blue mane stood before him. Flash panicked, and splashed his face with water and ran his hooves through his mane a few times to straighten it out. Flash looked back into his reflection, which was now stylish as usual.

Flash ran to his closet and grabbed his neatly made Royal Guard Uniform and tossed it on the bed. He looked to the guard, who was still standing at the door. "Please wait for me outside." He told him. The guard saluted and closed the door.

Flash got dressed quickly and brushed his teeth. He then proceeded to rush out of his room to absolutely destroy a cereal box he had gotten yesterday. After that, Flash popped a few breath mints into his mouth and went to one of his guards.

"How do I look?" He asked the guard and posed. The guard shuffled his hooves. "As good as always sir."

Flash narrowed his eyes. "Don't lie to me you bastard."

The guard darted his eyes around the room. "Sir -" He stuttered. "I promise I'm not lying." He tried to convince Flash.

Flash smiled and chuckled. "I'm joking! Stop acting so nervous. Do I really look ok?" He asked again.

The guard nodded, and Flash looked at the clock. 12:45. I need to get to the castle. Fast. Flash ran to the door, his guard close behind him and as he opened it, his other guard, a mare, stepped aside and saluted. Flash saluted back and walked on.

His guards close behind, Flash locked his door and headed down the elevator. When he reached the bottom floor, he was greeted with massive flashes from paparazzi's cameras. Flash put a hoof over his eyes to block out the blinding light.

Flash's guards moved out in front of Flash and shielded him from the cameras. Flash strolled out of the elevator and stayed in between the guards to avoid more of the blinding flashes.

Finally making it outside, the trio crossed the street into the castle. Guards were lining the castle entrance and formed a line that blocked off the reporters from entering the castle as soon as Flash and his guards walked passed them.

The trek through the castle to the court room seemed longer than Flash remembered. The long corridors and red carpeting seemed so foreign to him. He walked down the corridor slowly, gazing around him at the stained glass and up more were work ponies repairing the damage done by the dragon that attacked just a few days ago. Flash shivered at the thought of his brutal encounter with the beast.

Upon reaching the great court doors once again, he was halted by two guards, whom of which Flash knew. "Sorry sir." One of the guards stopped Flash. "You can't go in until your called." He told him.

Flash nodded, and sat down, as did his own personal guards. A few minutes passed buy as Flash listened to the ponies in the court room talk among themselves through the doors. Eventually the doors glowed yellow, emitting a field of magic around it and then swung open slowly.

The guards jumped to their hooves at lightening speed, Flash was slower to get up. He walked into the room as camera's flashed at him to get pictures. Reporters with notepads and pens lined the room. Flash headed to his booth and sat down, his guards stood next to him.

Celestia closed the great doors and focused her magic on her gavel, and banged her desk a few times. "This court involving Flash Sentry versus the Royal Guard of Equestria over Flash Sentry's discharge from the Royal Guard is now in session. Let the hearings begin." She then nodded to a speaker who was obviously a high ranking Equestrian ambassador.

"Flash Sentry." He began. "Do you admit to mercilessly killing the former Captain of the Royal Guard with full intentions?" He asked.

Flash shook his head. "I partially do." He responded. The ambassador squinted his eyes. "Please elaborate." He told Flash.

"It's simple." Flash told him. "He was going to kill me first, so I fought back and if I hadn't killed him, he would have killed me. I merely fought out of self-defense." Flash was surprisingly calm.

The ambassador nodded, understanding. "So you do admit to killing him with full intentions though?" He pressed.

Flash nodded his head. "Yes, I killed him with full intentions, but only because I had to."

"Do you believe that you should still be on the Royal Guard after what you did?" He asked Flash.

"Yes I do." Flash replied simply. The ambassador grew impatient. "Mr. Sentry, please explain your reasoning behind your responses from now on please." He told Flash.

"Well, ambassador." Flash started to explain. "I believe I should be on the Royal Guard because I will still take a sword in the chest to save a royal's life. As I proved a few days ago during a dragon attack. You can ask Princess Twilight Sparkle about that." Flash shot a brief smile at Twilight, who was sitting to the right of Celestia. When all eyes turned to her for a second she sunk down in her chair.

Celestia raised a hoof. "Please hold your thought, ambassador." She told him, then looked to Twilight. "Do you mind taking the stand?" She asked her student.

Twilight nodded, then got up and walked around to the stand and sat down in it. Celestia nodded to the ambassador who walked up to Twilight. "Can you describe the events that took place approximately three days ago to the best of your ability?"

Twilight tapped her muzzle with a hoof, thinking of what to say, then finally looked up. "After I had gone to sleep I recall a lot of rumbling waking me up." Her sight drifted back to her hooves. "Then the first explosion came which knocked me out of bed."

Twilight stopped and took a deep breath, then continued. "When I got to my hooves, the second explosion came, which was on my room. The blast flung me against something hard what hit me in the head." She rubbed the back of her head, indicating where the object hit.

"I don't remember much except for when I felt myself getting dragged, even though my vision was all blurry, I could still make out that it was Flash dragging me to safety, but the dragon intercepted us before he could get me somewhere safe." A hint of fear was in Twilight voice as she spoke about the dragon.

"Please continue Princess. Try to remember." The ambassador pressed, and so Twilight went on. "I remember being propped up on a wall. I saw mostly what happened, but I did black out at one point."

The ambassador continued to press Twilight. "What did you see?" He asked.

Twilight shuffled her hooves nervously. "Well, I saw most of Flash Sentry's fight with the dragon."

All movement stopped in the court room. The ambassador's eyes went wide. "Are you saying that Flash Sentry took on a full grown dragon by himself?"

Twilight nodded, and the ambassador looked to Flash. "You did that and sustained no injuries?" He questioned Flash, who shook his head in denial.

Flash raised his wings, revealing the bandages on his ribcage and lifted his back leg, showing the bandages from the surgery there. "Like I said. I'll take a sword in the chest for a Royal." He repeated.

The room was dead silent, reporters felt like they couldn't write, their hooves were frozen. Nobody could believe how much power those words that Flash said actually had. The ambassador simply nodded, and turned back to Twilight. "What did you see involving Flash's fight with the dragon?"

Twilight thought for a few seconds, then responded. "I remember Flash standing in front of me to protect me, then he bucked the dragon, then he got hit and he was sent flying into the wall."

"Which was when I broke a rib." Flash added in from his seat. Celestia darted her vision to Flash. "Please Mr. Sentry wait for your turn to speak, if you have something to add then you may add after the pony in the stand has finished." Flash understood and nodded. Celestia then turned back to Twilight. "Continue."

"As I was saying," Twilight resumed. "I saw when Flash was slammed against the wall, but only a few seconds of it. I was just too weak to do anything." Twilight focused her eyes on his hooves, avoiding all eye contact with any pony in the room.

The ambassador tried to get her attention. "What happened next?" He pressured. Twilight looked back up this time at Flash. "He tricked the dragon into wounding itself severely. He made it ram it's paw into a metal rod in the wall. I don't remember much after, but I think he bucked it out of the castle with a kick to the nose." She stated, eying the ambassador, then returning her gaze to Flash.

"Princess Twilight. Do you consider Mr. Sentry a violent pony?" He asked her, and Twilight opened her mouth in shock. "That's absurd! Flash isn't mean nor selfish at all. Her is constantly respectful and treats everypony kindly."

The ambassador nodded. "Ok, that is all Princess Twilight. You may return to your seat." The ambassador told her. Twilight then got up and headed back to the seat next to Celestia, who nodded to her. "May I ask Sir Flash Sentry to the stand." The ambassador called out. It was Flash's turn to testify, so he made his way to the booth with an occasional limp from his leg.

As Flash sat down in the seat, the ambassador walked over to him. "What happened in the events of the fight between you and the dragon? Can you confirm what the princess said was true?" He asked Flash.

"For the most part." Flash began. "A few things she missed was I was hit more times than she said."

The ambassador leaned on the stand. "How many times do you think you were hit?"

Flash tapped his muzzle with a hoof. "Four. At least four." He concluded.

"What details did the princess miss?" The ambassador asked, and Flash looked down at the bandages covering the mid-section of his body. "The fact that right after my rib was broken, I yelled for Princess Twilight to run, but she didn't hear me due to her injuries. So I threw a stone to re-attract the attention of the dragon to keep if from her." Flash shivered at the memories.

"Unfortunately, I paid the price for it, and the dragon hit me with a paw and sent me into one of the dressers, which knocked the wind out of me." Flash breathed. The ambassador had stopped leaning on the stand. "Take your time Mr. Sentry. Are there anymore things we should know?" He asked.

Flash nodded. "Yes. Even after I had a rib broken and the wind knocked out of me I still got up to fight the dragon. I had to, I felt like it was still my job to protect her. After that moment was when I got it to ram it's own paw into a metal rod that was sticking out of the wall."

The ambassador raised an eyebrow. "So where did you get the leg injury from?" He asked. Flash sat back in the chair. "When I bucked the dragon out of the castle, it was trying to grab onto something to hold on, and it flung one of it's paws towards me. When it connected, it sent me flying into some sort of table or dresser. That's what dislocated my leg." Flash told the stallion.

"Mr. Sentry. How do your fellow guardsmen treat you?" The ambassador asked. Flash looked at the pony with a confused look. "They treat me well. As do I, where did this question come from?"

The ambassador stared into Flash. "I'm just wondering how you think they think of you." Flash shrugged. "Based on rumors, I'm told I'm looked up to and respected. I don't think myself of being any better than any other guard."

Flash glared back at the ambassador, obviously insulted by the question, but the stallion continued his questioning. "Then why did Captain Jagged Wing hate you so much? What caused you to kill him?"

Flash leaned over in his chair and rubbed the side of his head with his hooves. "He said he didn't like my reputation and how good it was, and that I didn't deserve anything that I've gotten."

The ambassador leaned closer. "Do you believe that you've deserved what you have earned in the Royal Guard?"

Flash shook his head. "I don't care about medals or rewards, but just as long as the Royals are safe. That's the biggest reward any guard could have. More than any - medal, or ribbon." He turned his gaze over to Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Twilight, who just stared back at him.

The ambassador could do nothing but nod. "I understand. So then why did you kill the Captain?"

"Because he was abusive, cruel, and an unforgiving pony." Flash described. "Also he would have killed me if I didn't kill him first." He added.

Flash locked eye contact with the ambassador, who quickly looked away. "That is all, Mr. Sentry. You may return to your seat."

Princess Celestia looked at the ambassador. "Is there any other pony you wish to call to the stand?"

The stallion shook his head. "No. I'd like to take the jury with me and review all notes stated in this court." He motioned for the ponies on the jury to follow him. The group of ponies followed him into a room behind the court room.

After about 10 minutes of hearing nothing but the scribbling of pencils on paper. The doors from the back room opened and the ambassador walked out, followed by the jury ponies, who took their seats. The ambassador walked over to Celestia and handed her a sheet of paper, which the royals looked over for a brief moment.

Flash saw the look in Twilight's eyes, she was heartbroken. Oh no. Flash dreaded his fate. For he knew what it was going to be based on the look Twilight gave him.

Celestia began to speak. "Let this court hear the final verdict. That Sir Flash Sentry, is to be -" Celestia was cut off by the doors to the court opening. "Who interrupts this court?" She asked.

Flash looked behind him to see who was running into the court. He was shocked when he saw a mass of guard not in armor or uniform. Flash was even more shocked when he saw Night Breeze and Dust leading them.

The three rows of Royal Guards marched down the main isle until they stood in front of Celestia, who stared at the guards with her mouth hung open in shock. She stuttered when she spoke. "C-Can I help you colts?"

Night Breeze stepped forward. "Before this court closes. We want our word heard in this case as well."

Celestia closed her mouth and sat back. "What word is that?"

Dust spoke up now. "We want Flash Sentry back in the Royal Guard!" The guards behind Flash's friends cheered, chanting out Flash Sentry's name.

"We all look up to him!" One guard screamed out.

"He's is the best of all of us, and a valuable asset!" Another one cried.

"Nothing would be the same without him!" Shouted another.

Flash couldn't do anything but smile at the support he was getting.

Celestia darted her eyes among the guards. "A-Are you sure this is what you want?"

Night Breeze sounded impatient with the princess, which was a first since he was such a patient pony. "Yes Princess. We do. We also want him positioned as Captain of the Royal Guard. There is no pony more fit for the job." He declared in a powerful voice.

The princesses talked among each other for a minute, then turned back to the guards. Celestia cleared her voice. "Due to the sheer amount of support and respect. I hereby instate Flash Sentry as the new Captain of the Royal Guard, and is welcome back into the ranks of the Equestian Royal Guard!" She shouted as she ripped up the paper the ambassador had given her.

The entire room exploded in cheers of joy and happiness. Flash's fellow guardsmen gathered around him and picked him up over their heads. Flash winced at the pain in his side from behind picked up, but he didn't care. He was where he belonged.

Flash was carried out to the streets where we was finally put down in front of a cheering crowd, his armada of friends behind him. Flash held back tears of joy, he loved the sight.

Dust nudged him from behind. "Come on! We've got to tell everypony about this!" He told Flash excitedly.

Flash looked at the ponies cheering from the crowd, and the ponies trying to get any picture possible of Flash. He smiled and looked to his friend, who looked like he was about to burst with excitement. "I think gossip and the press will handle that." He chuckled.

He then turned around to back inside, and his friends followed him. As he walked through the hallways to his new office, he looked behind him at the guards marching behind him. "Can anypony give me a sitrep on parameter defenses?" He called back.

A guard scurried up to Flash. "Yes sir. We have guards covering every corner of the castle, usual procedures."

Flash looked at the guard. "Are there any shift rotations for the rest of today?"

"No sir." The guard responded.

Flash nodded. "Then tell all ponies other ponies to hang up their armor and take the rest of the day off. Today is a day for celebrating." He declared.

The guard hung his mouth open in shock, then a smile grew from ear to ear. "Yes sir!" He then turned and ran away to tell the other ponies.

Flash made it to the Royal Guard Headquarters and stopped at the entrance. He gazed into the room, it felt like a dark shadow was holding him back, he was almost afraid to step into the room.

Dust walked up beside him. "What are you waiting for? A personal invitation? Well, I invite you to walk into the HQ!" He chuckled in Flash's face.

Flash shot his friend a sharp glace that made Dust step back. "I'm not waiting for an invitation, but more like a grudge to wear off." Dust thought for a second, but then understood what Flash meant. He was referring to how the last time he was here he had ended the former Captain's life. The thought stopped Flash in his tracks.

After a few brief moments, Flash step one hoof into the room, then two, then he found his whole body moving inside the room. The guard behind the desk looked up to see Flash. He quickly stood out of his chair and saluted him. Flash grinned to the desk pony. "At ease." It's gonna take some time to get used to all the saluting. Flash thought to himself.

Flash went up to a large door with a plaque on it saying the words Flash, in a way, didn't want to see again. The sign read three words that nearly killed Flash, "Captain Jagged Wing".

Flash looked to his side, a line of guards looked on with envy at him. So Flash reached up and grabbed the plaque and yanked it off of the door and threw it on the ground. He then opened the door and stepped into the dark office.

With a frown on his face, Flash walked behind the desk and opened the blinds covering the sunlight from reaching the room. Light flooded the room, making it seem all the more lively. Flash then proceeded to sit down at the desk, and he ran his eyes along the papers scattered on the desk.

Flash came across one paper that looked more like a envelope. He pulled the envelope out and looked at it. It was addressed for Captain Jagged Wing, but the suspicious part about the envelope was the fact that in bold letters it said "For The Captain's Eyes Only".

Flash tore open the envelope and took out a letter. He then silently read the letter -

Captain Jagged Wing,

All preparations are being set for Flash Sentry to be taken out three days from now. At approximately 14:30 we will have him lured into the main corridor where we will ambush him. From there we will take him to "Goldfarm". Meet us there. Keep your end of the deal Captain, approximately 1,000 bits in case you forgot. If this promise is not kept, you will be hearing from my adversaries.

Kingfish

Flash went wide eyed as he looked up from the letter. He was in complete shock after reading the letter. He called out to the regularly posted guard outside his office. "Guard!" He shouted, and the stallion rushed in.

"What can I do for you sir?" He asked.

Flash became extremely serious. "Get me Night Breeze and Dust Storm. Now." He commanded forcefully.

The guard saluted and rushed out of the room. Flash sat back in his chair and stared at the letter on the desk. He scanned the letter in fear, then his vision drifted to a small ink mark at the bottom of the page.

Flash leaned forward and pulled out a magnifier glass. He rested the glass and his gaze over the ink mark. Flash was frightened about what he had just read. The guard rushed back in with Night Breeze and Dust tailing behind.

"Thank you. You may go." Flash waved off the guard, then he turned to his friends. "We've got a major problem."

Night Breeze immediately looked concerned. "What's the problem?" Flash looked at the clock on his desk. 2:10, he could still make it.

Flash got out of his chair and began to walk quickly out of the room, his friends walked out with him, trying to keep up a Flash's rapid pace.

Dust stopped Flash and turned him around. "Flash. What's going on?" He gazed in Flash's half-terrified, half-battle ready eyes.

Flash turned around and continued walking. "The Captain put a hit out on me."

Night Breeze stopped for a second. Then ran to catch up. "What do you mean?" He asked.

"In other words. Someone is going to try to kill me, and I think I know when and where." Flash retorted.

Author's Notes:

Boom. Cliffhanger. I had a lot of trouble thinking up the last part of this story, but thought of it, and thought it was cool, so I put it in. Hope you all enjoyed it as well, I really didn't have any other ideas as to how to make the story go on without Flash being accepted back in, so I did that. I finished this chapter early so I have begun brainstorming for the next chapter! Yes, this story will be going on for much longer!

Chapter 5: Paving A New Road

The sound of hooves slamming against the stone floor and armor jingling was the only thing heard as a large mass of Royal Guards trotted to the their captain in a neat, five-lane formation.

When the guards all skidded to a halt, they stood at attention with their bodies as straight as a spear. An orange pegasus with a navy-blue mane walked back and forth in front of the crowd.

"For those who don't know why you are here, I have received a death threat via an old letter to Captain Jagged Wing." The stallion told them. "Within said letter, it was told that I was suppose to be lured then abducted inside the main corridor in 5 minutes."

Some of the guards gasped, but other remained silent. The stallion swept his gaze across his guards. "I entrust that you all will help me in ridding these ponies from the Canterlot Castle. Am I right?"

"Yes sir!" Roared the crowd of guards.

The stallion nodded. "Then follow me." As he turned and began marching a purple-colored stallion ran up to the Captain. "Flash, do you really think we should charge into this threat head on? Why not just not show up?"

Flash looked at his friend. "Because I don't want to take a chance at my life again. You're a good and wise friend, Night Breeze. You understand why, right?"

Night Breeze nodded. "Yeah, but I rather not think about it."

Flash looked behind him at his guards, he stopped them one hall down from the main corridor. Flash looked at the a clock hanging on the wall. 2:27, 3 minutes until his 'ambush'.

"Wait here." Flash instructed his guards. They nodded, and stood still. Flash turned the corner and saw a pony running towards him. "Captain! Sir!" He yelled, fear hinting in his voice.

He ran up to Flash. "Sir! There is someone in the main corridor threatening the Princess' lives." Flash knew this was the pony who was suppose to lure him to his potential capture. "Show me." He played along.

The pony ran away and as Flash started to follow him, he signaled Night Breeze who was behind him to bring the guards.

Right before Flash turned the corner to see the door to the main corridor, he looked behind him and saw Night Breeze, his other friend Dust Storm, and the rest of his guards creeping along behind him.

Flash stopped at the door to the main corridor, the pony turned to him. "He's right in here." He told Flash.

"Shouldn't we get some back-up? In case this gets ugly?" Flash asked the pony. Who shook his head. "It won't be necessary. It's just one pony."

Flash was now certain this pony was luring him. As the pony opened the door, he stepped aside to let Flash go first.

Flash was hesitant to step into the main corridor, but he slowly walked into the great hallway. The pony followed close behind him, and closed the doors when they entered in fully.

Flash gazed down the stairs and around the massive hall, not a single soul was in sight. "Where is everypony?" He asked, well aware of what is going to happen.

The pony shuffled his hooves. "I dunno. I swear he was right there." He pointed his hoof to the center of the room.

Flash looked at the Canterlot Clocktower in the distance, telling him it was 2:30. Flash sighed and turned around to the doors and when he began to open them, the pony shut them close. Flash looked at him.

"Is there a problem?" He asked the stallion.

The pony grinned. "You see Captain. I'm not suppose to let you leave."

Flash looked at him quizzically. "Under who's authority?"

On queue, ponies began to walk out from behind the pillars that lined the red carpet. There were at least 50 ponies surrounding Flash. "That would be the authority of the Red Fang." A musky voice called out to answer Flash.

Flash spun around in surprise. All of the ponies that just seemed to appear out of nowhere began to corner him against the door. "The what?" He asked.

A violet-colored mare with a red streak going down her side stepped forward. "The Red Fang." She said. "You must be Captain Flash Sentry."

"And you must be Kingfish." Flash retorted.

The mare smirked. "Hmph. The one and only." She snorted violently. Is she challenging me? Flash wondered. He wasn't about to give in to this mare. "You enjoy that name Fish-Face?" Flash taunted.

The mare bared her teeth and flattened her ears at Flash. "You dare mock me! I'll have you know my real name much different."

Flash smirked. "Then what is your real name?" He asked. The mare shook her head. "That is not important. What is important is how we get our money, and currently, we are getting money-"

"By killing me. I know. Unfortunately, your payer isn't alive anymore." Flash intervened. "I killed him, and I found that letter you sent him."

Kingfish smiled. "Well, you certainly know your way around Mr. Sentry. Unfortunately I don't think you can stand against this many ponies." She threatened. "Surrender, and I'll won't kill you slowly and painfully."

Flash stood his ground. "I was well aware about the ambush, and I knew I couldn't take you all on. That's why I didn't come alone." He told Kingfish.

The mare began to laugh hysterically. "Where, and who? Only ponies I see are you, and my loyal ponies."

Flash smiled. "Excellent question Kingfish. Where are they?"

Her smile faded quickly, as she began to look around. Obviously searching for Flash's guards. When unable to find them, she turned back to Flash. "Nowhere! You're all alone you fool!" She laughed again.

"Am I?" Flash challenged, and bucked the door with his back-right leg.

On the outside, Night Breeze signaled Dust above him to begin the attack. When Dust disappeared from sight, Night Breeze put his hooves on the door and waited.

Flash stood only a few meters from his opposition, still smiling, the mare had gotten tired of waiting. "You're coming with us Flash Sentry. Let's go."

Flash backed up more, "I don't think so. Dust!" he yelled out. Dust and his squad of guards then dropped down unto the expecting ponies surrounding Flash. With a shriek of the ponies now fighting, the doors burst open and Night Breeze charged at the clan with his squad.

"Protect at all costs!" Screamed Night Breeze as he and Flash charged side by side into the frenzy.

Flash and a pony ran head on, as Flash got too close for comfort, he dropped down and slid under the pony, kicking out the stallions hooves, causing him to collapse.

When he popped back up, Flash turned around and hit the back of the pony's head, knocking him out. Flash looked around him, at the furious battle between his Royal Guards and the rag-tag clan of ponies. His men were driving the ponies back with sheer numbers, for the clan was outnumbered 2 to 1.

Flash spotted Kingfish, taking on two knights at once. When she beat down one of the them, she turned to the other, caught the guard's punch and twisted his arm and rammed a hoof into his elbow joint, snapping the bone like a twig. The guard fell to the ground screaming in agony. Flash has had enough for today, and he began to rush over to his wounded soldiers.

As Flash neared Kingfish, she had no time to react as Flash dove at her, bringing her down will all of Flash's weight. Flash held onto the mare with all of his strength and they tumbled down the stairs into the center of the room.

When the two ponies finally got back on their hooves, Flash charged Kingfish before she could react, slamming her into one of the great white pillars.

Flash cocked back his hoof and threw it in Kingfish's direction, which she ducked and Flash's hoof smashed into the pillar, cracking the quartz frame. Flash reared back, his hoof felt like it was on fire. Kingfish took advantage of this brief moment, and she charged Flash.

Startled, Flash was slammed by the mare, and he tumbled over his side. The two ponies rolled on the floor until Kingfish was able to kick Flash off of her.

Flash stood up, dazed from the forceful attack he just endured. He looked at Kingfish, was was inspecting her troops, who were being badly beaten by the Royal Guard. She looked back to Flash, then to her troops again, and yelled out, "Red Fang! Retreat back! We will fight these ponies another day!" she turned to Flash. "Don't think this is over pony. You're going to pay for this."

Flash smirked. "I await your arrival." He taunted. With that, Kingfish and her troops fled the castle. As the Royal Guard chased them, they stopped when they saw Flash wasn't with them. Night Breeze ran up to Flash. "Aren't we going to chase them out?"

Flash shook his head. "I think we've taught them a lesson they won't soon forget." He stared at his friend's weary, amber eyes. Night Breeze nodded, then called out to the guards. "Guards! Leave them! Get the wounded to the infirmary!"

Flash sat down in the middle of the corridor and looked around at the shuffling hooves of his guards. The wounded ponies being carried out of the corridor. Flash felt helpless to help them, like all of this was his fault.

Night Breeze walked over to his friend, Dust close behind. He tapped Flash's shoulder. "We won Flash, why are you so disappointed?" He asked his friend.

Flash sighed and stood up to turn around. "Because I know this was all my fault, I shouldn't have dragged you all into this."

Dust spoke from behind Night Breeze. "Hey. Any one of us would have no problem defending our Captain. Don't care how you feel, we are there for you."

Flash smiled at his friends. "Ever since I became Captain of the Royal Guard, I feel like I'm losing who I once was, and become a different pony. If you'd excuse me, I want to go talk to some pony." He told his friends. Who nodded simply. "Take your time." Night Breeze added, before Flash took off out of the main corridor.

Through the crowd of guards, Flash weaved in and out of them, making his way to the north-eastern corner of the castle. When he reached his destination he knocked on the door of the pony we wanted to see. When the door opened, a familiar, friendly lavender-colored pony stood in the doorway.

Flash smiled at the familiar sight. "Hi Twilight." He began.

The princess smiled back. "Hi Flash. What can I do for you?" She said in her cheerful voice. I wonder if she is aware of what just happened. He thought. "I need to talk to you about something." He told her.

Twilight's smiled faded. "Of course." She beckoned him with a hoof. "Come in." Flash entered into the familiar room. It had been only two days since the dragon attack, and repairs were going on in her room. Only half the wall had been repaired, but no workers were in sight. They must be on break. Flash concluded.

Flash sat down on a pillow and Twilight adjacent to him. She levitated over some tea cups. "Tea?" She offered Flash. He shook his head. "No thanks." Twilight set the cups and the pot in between them.

Twilight shifted a little then looked up at Flash's weary eyes. "So what wrong?"

Flash shuffled his hooves and looked at Twilight. "You know how I'm the Captain now?" He started.

Twilight seemed to grin. "Of course, I was there when it happened." Then her smile faded again. "Flash, what's going on?"

Flash sighed, he had to tell her. "Do you know we were just attacked?" Twilight nodded.

"I knew, I sent all the guards I could spare to you." She replied.

"Well, I know why they were here." He breathed. Twilight leaned closer, obviously intrigued. "Really? Why?"

Flash sat back, and dropped his gaze to the ground. "It's because of me. It's my fault Twilight."

Twilight put a hoof on Flash's and picked it up to where Flash was looking right at Twilight's eyes. "Flash, I'm sure it wasn't your fault."

Flash yanked away. "No, Twilight." He argued. "I know that they came for me!" He almost sobbed.

Twilight was taken back by Flash's tone. "Flash." She cooed. "Why would they come for you?" She got up and sat right next to him and softly stroked his navy-blue mane, which was ruffled from the fight, for Flash still didn't have his armor yet.

Flash covered his eyes with his hooves. "Because I found a letter on the old Captain's desk. Captain Jagged Wing. Written on it was a letter to some clan leader. With a hit on me, for a thousand bits." He looked back up at the princess, his blue eyes watery. "They wanted me dead Twilight. Dead. As in - gone for good. Grave and all."

Twilight had nothing to say, so she simply wrapped her hooves around him and pulled him into a hug. Flash accepted the gesture and hugged her back. "This position is already changing me, and I don't want to be a different pony from who I used to be." He sobbed, his muzzle in Twilight's mane.

"Flash, you're no different from the day I first met you back in the Crystal Empire." She soothed Flash as she gently continue stroking his mane. "You're going to be ok Flash." She pulled away from the rather long hug and looked him in the eyes. "I promise you."

To Flash it didn't seem so, and he wasn't afraid to admit it. He dropped his gaze again. "Twilight, I think they are going to come back for me, and strike me when I'm weakest."

Twilight picked his chin up again. "You will be fine." With that, she leaned in and kissed Flash full on the lips. Flash, shocked by the sudden movement made by the princess, he jerked back a little, before he finally accepted the kiss. Both the ponies' cheeks burned crimson and hot with embarrassment.

Flash's mind ran wild. THIS CAN NOT BE HAPPENING! Was the only thing running through Flash's thoughts. The pony he loved, loved him back, and she was a princess!

The kiss lasted for a few brief seconds before Twilight finally pulled away. "Because if you go, I have no pony to love and talk to." She told him.

Flash's heart exploded with joy. He couldn't believe what he had just heard. "T-Twilight." He stuttered. "I-I love you too." He admitted. "But this can't possibly happen. It's against Royal Guard Rules to love a pony you protect."

Twilight giggled. "You really need to take a look at that 'rule book' again Flash. You realize that Princess Cadance is married to Shining Armor right?"

Flash shrugged, still a little red from the kiss. "Yeah, what of it?"

"Well, what was Shining Armor before he moved to the Crystal Empire?" Twilight asked him, grinning.

That's when it clicked. Flash was the Captain of the Royal Guard, just as Shining Armor once was. And a Captain can...wait. No. His thoughts raced as he tried to process this. He stared back at Twilight's amethyst eyes. "Twilight, you don't really want me do you? I mean, there are so many better ponies out there that-" Flash was interrupted by a lavender hoof being lifted in front of his mouth.

"Hush Flash." Twilight spoke softly. "I don't want any other pony. I want one I know I can trust, and one that is close to me."

Flash couldn't speak. He didn't know what to say. He finally thought of something, but he had trouble getting the words out. "Twilight, I-I don't -" He was cut off once again from his struggle to speak by Twilight.

"Shhh." She soothed him, and then wrapped her forehooves around Flash. With a smile from both of them, Flash and Twilight both leaned in for a relaxed, long kiss.

~

Flash opened the doors to the Royal Guard HQ. He sighed happily, and smiling. He trotted into his office, not caring about the looks his fellow guards gave him.

He sat down at his desk and began throwing old newspapers and letters of insignificant importance into the trash. He kept the letter about his hit though. That could come in handy later. He thought as he looked at it again.

After Flash spent a few minutes organizing his work-place, he sat back in his chair and closed his eyes. He only thought of one thing, his new true love, Twilight.

Flash's thoughts and dreams were interrupted by a knocking at his door. He opened his eyes, to see Night Breeze and Dust Storm standing at the door, smiling and waving. Flash beckoned them to come in, which they did.

"What brings news on our fellow guardsmen." He asked his friends.

Night Breeze stepped forward. "They're alright Flash. All the wounded are recovering from only minor wounds. Nothing major."

Flash nodded. "Good good. Anything else?"

Dust began to get a grin across his muzzle. Flash lost his own smile when he saw it. I don't like that grin at all. He thought. That grin could only mean one thing, he knew something and was going to call Flash out on it. Flash gulped.

"Dust, why are you looking at me like that?" He asked his friend.

"Oh I'm pretty sure you know why." Flash's heart sank to the pits of his stomach. He probably did, but he didn't want to talk about it.

"Um - I don't?" Flash lied.

Dust's grin started to shrink. "Where were you for the past half and hour? Who was the pony you needed to talk to?"

Flash rubbed the back of his neck as he turned away from them. Buck. I knew he was gonna get me on this. Maybe I should think of a side-story. Eh, they're my friends, I can trust them.

He sighed, then turned back to his friends. "I went to talk to Princess Twilight."

Dust put a hoof over his muzzle and turned his head to cover his smile. Even Night Breeze grinned, but quickly took it off.

Flash was angered by their reactions. "What's so funny about the Captain talking to a princess?"

Night Breeze scrapped the ground with a hoof. "It's just that you choose that specific pony to go talk to."

Dust continued snickering uncontrollably, this agitated Flash a lot. "Dust, what is the problem with me talking to her?" Flash almost shouted.

Dust whipped around to see Flash's angered face. His smile slipped off his muzzle. "Nothing, Flash. It's fine."

Flash nodded. "That's what I thought."

Night Breeze tilted his head. "Flash. Why are you so defensive? We never did anything. I'm assuming you talked to her about the attack, no?"

"Yeah, that's all we talked about." He shot a glance at Dust, "And only that." who nodded humbly in return.

Dust sighed. "Chill dude. I was only joking. I'll leave now." With that Dust turned and left, Night Breeze went to follow him out.

Flash cleared his throat. "Night Breeze, can you stay for a second."

Night Breeze turned around to look at Flash. "Sure." He closed the door and sat back down on one of the chairs in front of Flash's desk. "What's up?" He asked calmly.

Flash sighed. "I'm gonna be straight up with you, and this is VERY personal. I'm telling you because you're the only one I know can keep a secret." He leaned forward. "I can trust you. Right?" He asked, making Night Breeze shift in his chair.

"Of course Flash. I'm you're friend. What's on your mind?" Night Breeze asked Flash. Leaning in so they could speak softer.

Flash exhaled slowly, preparing to let loose a dark secret. "Night Breeze, I know for certain that Twilight loves me."

Night Breeze's eyes went wide with what seemed like shock. "How can you be so sure?" He asked Flash.

"Because - well," Flash hesitated. "She may or may not of kissed me when I went to talk to her."

Night Breeze couldn't help but cover his smile with a hoof. "Flash, do you love her back?"

Flash sighed. "Yeah, Night Breeze. I do. The thing is, when I was a regular guard, I wasn't allowed to even think about loving her, but when I was up there, she told me that since I was the new Captain, I could love her. She used her brother, Shining Armor, as an example."

Night Breeze's smile slipped off his muzzle, and he place his hoof on the floor again. "Flash, what are you going to do? Say no, or love her back?"

Flash looked down at the hard wood floor. "I don't know. That's why I wanted to tell you, you're the smartest pony I know." He looked back up at his faithful friend. "What should I do?"

Night Breeze tapped his muzzle with his hoof a couple times, indicating that he was in deep thought. After a few moments passed he returned his gaze to Flash. "You both love each other, and she's made that clear. I think you should definitely get her, love her back."

"You sure?" Flash asked him, unsure of his answer.

Night Breeze nodded. "She kissed you first, and it was full blown on the lips, right?"

Flash nodded sullenly. "Well then it's obvious Flash. She loves you a lot, and you love her too. It couldn't be more perfect, you're like her knight in shining armor." Night Breeze forced a chuckle, but Flash couldn't smile, he was too stressed out by the situation.

Eventually Flash brought himself to speak. "Ok, thanks Night Breeze, that's all. Thanks for talking with me." Flash thanked his friend, still sulking a little.

Night Breeze stood up and smiled. "Anytime Flash. Anything you need, you got it." He said with a warm tone in his voice. He then proceeded to exit the room, leaving Flash alone in his office.

Flash struggled through his thoughts. He laid his head down on the desk, specifically on papers, since his desk was full of them.

A few minutes passed of Flash just staring at a blank stone wall, unsure of what decision he could make. Flash's thoughts were interrupted by a pony knocking on his door.

Flash perked up and looked. The desk mare was standing at his door, waving. Flash beckoned the mare to come in, which she did.

The mare opened the door and walked in quickly, closing the door behind her. "Sorry in interrupt Captain, but a letter has come from Northern Equestria. Specifically The Crystal Empire, it's addressed to you." She told him, handing him the envelope.

Flash took the white envelope and looked at it. He immediately recognized the Crystal Empire stamp on it. The picture of the Crystal Heart, the one thing that powers the entire city. "Thank you. You can go now." He told the mare.

"Yes sir." She saluted and left the room. Leaving Flash staring at the white envelope. He tore the top of the envelope off with a small knife on his desk. He pulled the letter out, and began to read -

Captain Flash Sentry,

Congratulations on the new position, I entrust Canterlot's safety and the well-being of all the guards to you. I ensure that any problems will be addressed to me if need-be, but I assure that you will be a fine Captain. Also, take good care of my sister, Princess Twilight Sparkle. If I hear of any mistreatment of her, you will hear from me personally. If you need any help, don't hesitate to send me a letter or meet me.

With All My Support,
(Former) Captain Shining Armor

Flash folded up the letter and set it aside. He breathed sporadically for a few seconds, then he began banging his head on the desk, until finally resting his head on the desk. How the buck am I suppose to tell Shining that his sister and me are in love?

He breathed in and out. Only one way. He grabbed a pen and paper off his desk and began writing back a letter.

Dear Captain Shining Armor,

I take great pleasure in being the one to take control of your vast and majestic Royal Guard. There is something I must discuss with you unfortunately. Something I would rather not risk somepony else getting their hooves on. If possible, I would like to meet in the Crystal Empire Castle with you alone in two days. Please respond as soon as possible.

Captain Flash Sentry

Flash looked over his letter grimly. He then pushed himself away from the desk and stood up, then walked out of his office and up to the desk pony.

"Excuse me ma'am, but could do me a favor?" He asked the mare behind the desk.

She looked up at him. "What is the favor?" She asked quizzically.

Flash held up his letter, which he sealed in an envelope. "I need you to send this letter to the Crystal Empire. Addressed to Captain Shining Armor as soon as possible."

The desk mare took the letter, scanned it's surface, then got and headed to the mail room. "Yes sir." She said as she stood up.

Flash spun around and headed back into his office. He sat down at his desk and stared at the floor. How am I going to break this to Shining Armor? Would he allow it? He turned around and stared out the window of his office, which overlooked some of Canterlot. He watched the ponies thrive on the streets below. So happy, enjoying their time. I wish I could feel the same way. He sighed. I'll just have to be straight up with him. It's may be blunt, but it's the only way.

Author's Notes:

Wow, this taught me to stop procrastinating, I finished this the day it came out. I hope you enjoy it thought, because I really tried hard to make it a good chapter, this time with a sufficient amount of words in it. I have big plans for Flash and Twilight, and really putting the love part into the "Romance" tag on this story, because I've noticed I've been leaving it out recently. I can't say enough how much you're enthusiasm to my story is. It's actually made me a lot more positive about myself in my personal life. Can't thank you guys enough for even reading this! Have a good one and keep watching for Chapter 6!

Chapter 6: Winter Chills

The scribbling of a pen on paper was the only soft sound besides the clock ticking in Flash Sentry's office. He had been redecorating it, and was still not finished. He had added some nice plants to the office, and replaced the black, stone walls with glass. He felt that his guards should be able to see their Captain without any fear, unlike the old Captain.

Flash continued to write out bills and checks to various ponies to pay for Royal Guardsmen expenses, when the mare who worked at the front desk knocked on his door. Flash motioned for her to enter, and she did. "Captain, a letter from the Crystal Empire sir." She held up a envelope to Flash as she walked up to his desk.

"Thank you Moonshine." He obliged to the mare. "Dismissed." The mare saluted and headed back to her desk. Flash stared at the envelope. It had the Crystal Heart stamp on it, and was addressed to him.

Flash took out a knife he kept in his desk drawer and sliced open the top of the envelope with ease. He proceeded to pull out a neatly folded letter, in which he sighed with relief and guilt at the same time when he saw who the letter was from when he began to read it.

Captain Flash Sentry,

I have available time to spend with you today at 8 o'clock tonight. I have arranged a 10:30 AM train ride for you to use as transportation. Do not worry about tickets, just tell them your name. I understand that whatever you need to tell me must be urgent, and I am pleased you have come to me. I will meet you tonight at the Crystal Palace.

Captain Shining Armor

Flash looked over the letter grimly. If only you knew what I was going to tell you. He thought darkly. He had slept well the night before, but he fell asleep and woke up almost in a panicked state. He gazed over at his grandfather clock in his office, which read 9:30 AM. He would have to leave soon to catch his train ride to the Crystal Empire.

Flash stood up from his desk and walked over to his where his armor, Royal Guard Uniform, and a coat would be. While his armor was hung up nicely, he took the coat off its hanger and slid it on over his uniform. He grabbed the letter and slid into one of the inside pockets of the coat, and took at nice fedora hat, since he heard it was raining today. He looked out his office window to confirm that, as rain fell into Canterlot.

Being the Captain of the Royal Guard, Flash was allowed to bring a weapon with him into public, though it had to be concealed to avoid panic. Flash put what looked an ordinary glove on his right forehoof, and when he flicked his wrist, a sharp blade extended from the glove. With another flick the blade retracted back into the glove. Flash admired it, for it would keep him safe should his ordinary hoof-to-hoof training fail him.

Flash walked out of his office and peered over at the desk pony, Moonshine, who was writing something out on a piece of paper. "I'm heading to the train station, I'll be leaving for a few days to go to the Crystal Empire." He interrupted Moonshine from her business.

She looked up. "But sir, who should lead the guards in case of an attack?" She asked him.

Flash tapped his chin with a hoof, then looked back to her after a few moments, "Night Breeze and Dust Storm." he concluded.

Moonshine looked befuddled. "...Sir?" She asked. Flash knew she was curious about two ponies controlling the Royal Guard at once.

Flash nodded to her. "I want them to command the guard together. I know they will be fine." Moonshine nodded, and Flash turned and headed out of the Royal Guard HQ.

He proceed down the many corridors guarded by ponies who saluted as he walked past them until he arrived to the main gates. When he was officially out Canterlot Castle, he turned around to look at it once more before he left.

To Flash it felt discomforting to leave the only place he felt he knew, but he had to do this. So he ventured away from the castle through the pouring rain. Flash payed little attention to the ponies running through the rain, and he strolled along the streets towards the train station.

As Flash took his time, he stopped to look back at the Canterlot Clocktower, since he isn't a fan of wearing a watch. The clocktower read 10:00 AM. Flash grinned, he had time, but he didn't want to waste it doing randomized activities, so he continued on his path the train station.

When Flash got to the busier section of the Canterlot, a lot of ponies gasped at the sight of him and some ponies even came up to shake his hoof and say, "Thank you for your service." Flash enjoyed the attention, and replied mostly with a simple, "My pleasure." and responses along those lines.

At one point a news pony ran up to Flash, thrusting a camera into his face and blinding him with a flash of light. Flash stumbled back in disarray. "Sorry, sir! But, if you don't mind I'd like to ask a few questions." Some pony talked to Flash.

After rubbing his eyes for a few moments, Flash looked up at the pony. "Sorry," He talked to angered, gritted teeth. "but I have a train to catch and I can't be side-tracked." With that Flash began to walk away, but the news pony followed him.

Flash knew the pony was behind him, but he continued walking. When the pony sped up to walk alongside Flash he began asking questions again. Which Flash answered as simply as possible.

"So where are you headed?"

"Train station."

"To go where?"

"None of your concern."

"Why?"

"Would you mind your own business?" Flash stopped and narrowed his eyes at the pony. "I would like to go somewhere without be plundered with questions." He gestured for the pony to leave, so he did.

Flash sighed and looked back at the Canterlot Clocktower, which now read 10:20 AM. Buck! I knew I couldn't get sidetracked! He panicked as he began sprinting to the train station.

Flash burst through the train station doors and headed to his terminal, he heard the "last call" announcement for his train as he sprinted for it, and hearing the announcement made him move even faster.

As the train readied to pull out, Flash dove on board through the doors at the last moment, just making it, for the doors slammed shut as soon as he got on.

Ponies stared at him, some in shock, some in awe because they felt like they were meeting a celebrity. Flash stood up with the aid of some kind ponies around him.

"Are you ok?" A stallion asked him, while helping Flash up.

Flash grunted. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks."

The pony stared at him. "Are you, Captain Flash Sentry?"

Flash took off his hate, and ran a hoof through his mane. "Yeah. Why?" He asked, out of breath from his run.

The pony stuck out a hoof. "Pleasure to meet you sir."

Flash shook the ponies hoof. "Likewise, who are you?"

"Eh, ponies call me Rustle. But names aren't important, why are you taking a train? I'd expect you to be flown to wherever you're going." Rustle rubbed the back of his neck.

Flash tilted his head. "I wanted to be in public. I don't feel any different, why should I be treated any different?

Rustle nodded. "Good point." The two ponies stood around for a while, Flash still getting stares of awe from other ponies.

Flash exhaled, he was getting hot. He took off his coat, revealing his Royal Guard Uniform he had still been wearing. Ponies gasped and smiled at him, making Flash very uncomfortable. He looked to his new friend. "Say, Rustle, want to head to the lounge car?" He asked.

Rustle nodded. "Sure." He stepped aside and bowed. "After you."

Flash smiled and walked ahead of him. "Thank you." When he passed, Rustle got up and followed Flash through the train cars until the made it to the Lounge Car.

The two ponies sat down at the first open table. Flash put his coat down at his side and rested his hooves on the table. Rustle did the same.

A waiter came to their table eventually. "Can I get you ponies anything?" The stallion asked.

Rustle looked up at the waiter. "Can I have some coffee? Whatever milk is fine, no sugar." Then gestured to Flash.

"Uh, do you have Green Tea?" Flash asked the waiter, who nodded in confirmation. "Then I'll have that, with honey too."

The waiter finished writing down their order and closed the notepad. "Alright I'll be right back." He said and trotted off, leaving Flash and Rustle alone at their table.

Rustle looked over at Flash. "So what brings you to the Crystal Empire? Official business I'm assuming?" He started the conversation.

Flash nodded. "You got that right. I'm meeting Shining Armor. Not saying when and where. That's none of your concern." He responded.

Rustle lifted a hoof. "I understand. You don't have to tell me anything you don't want to. I do have to ask one thing though." He confessed.

Flash raised an eyebrow. "What's that Rustle?"

With a slow movement, Rustle pulled out a small picture and pen from his pocket. "Can you sign this?"

Rustle passed the picture to Flash, when he looked at it and smiled. It was a picture of Flash in his guard armor, back when he was a regular guard. He was smiling in the picture, and this made Flash smiled even more on the outside.

He looked to Rustle, who was grinning as well, as if asking, "Oh Celestia please sign it." Flash took the pen, "Sure Rustle." and signed his name on the picture. He then took one last look at the picture, then gave it back to Rustle.

"Thanks." Rustle said as he put the picture back in his pocket. "I've been trying to get you to sign that for years." He told Flash. "I look up to you Flash. Is it ok if I call you Flash?" He stopped, but Flash nodded his approval.

The waiter brought their drinks, and they began to take small sips to avoid getting burned by the hot liquids. Rustle put down his mug and looked at Flash. "What's it like?" He asked.

Flash stopped his mug at the tip of his mouth an looked up. "Huh?" He responded with a puzzled look.

Rustle shrugged. "Well, what's it like, being Captain of the Royal Guard, being showered by fans and cameras. How is it?" He asked, clearly wanted an answer, because he had his head resting on his hooves, and his forehooves resting on the table. He looked comparable to a filly learning about the discovery of candy.

Flash placed his cup down gently. "Stressful. Very stressful." He sighed.

Rustle leaned in closer. "And what about the paparazzi?" He asked.

"Annoying. Very annoying. The cameras are blinding, and having questions being shoved at you one after the next is tiresome." Flash responded. "The ponies who just give regular 'hellos' and go to shake my hoof or even salute me are the ponies I like."

Rustle nodded. "I can see why. Just an ordinary hoof-shake is much better than being blinded by a camera the second you walk out of the castle." He added. "Speaking of the castle, what's it like living in there?"

Flash tapped his hoof, thinking of a response. "Heh, it takes some time to get used to. It's a pretty big place, I myself got lost a few times when I first started my career." He grinned as he recalled his earlier memories.

Rustle grinned at Flash. "Was it ever embarrassing when you got lost?"

"Always. Especially if another guard had to bring me back." Flash chuckled.

A smash sounded from what seemed like a few train cars away. The sound echoed through Flash's ears, the sound of glass shattering, and his senses kicked in. He perked up and looked at Rustle. "Let's go check that out."

Flash quickly slid out from the booth and trotted past everypony through the Lounge Car. He took a quick look behind him, only to see Rustle flowing close behind.

When the two ponies made it out of the Lounge Car and into another passenger car full of ponies. Flash tried to make his way through as quickly as possible. All of a sudden, a shriek came from the same car as before, making Flash burst into a full gallop. He pushed aside all the ponies in his path to get to the door.

Flash rammed the door into the next car, to see two ponies fighting each other, one with a knife help up to the other pony's neck. It only wasn't going in because the other pony was holding him back. Rustle came in after him and skidded to a halt to stare wide-eyed at the two brawling ponies.

The fight seemed to halt when the door came crashing down and Flash entered. Both ponies stopped struggling and stared at Flash. The pony with the knife, looked back at the pony he was currently fight, then pushed him off and charged at Flash, with his knife raised.

Flash ducked and slammed into the stallion's rear hooves, making him flip over Flash and into a wall. The stallion stood up and charged at Flash again, who tried to drive out of the way, but due to lack of space and situational awareness, he fell right into a chair and hit his head on the wall, dazing him for a few moments.

Those few moments were enough for Flash's attack to make a move, as Flash flipped over on his back to get up, the pony dove on top of him and thrust his knife down to Flash's head.

Flash managed to catch the pony's hoof and slow the knife to a halt about an inch from his muzzle. Flash struggled, knowing he wasn't going to last longer. Knowing that his hooves had failed him, he flicked his right wrist, extending his hidden blade, and rammed his hoof into his attacker side. Flash gritted his teeth, and kept ramming his hoof several times into the pony's lung area, until the pony let go of his knife and Flash was able to throw him off with the assistance of his friend.

Rustle stared at Flash, his gaze flickered between the pony bleeding out of the floor and Flash, who's once clean and nice Royal Guard Uniform was now bloodstained with the crimson-red liquid.

Flash looked over at the pony gasping for air, hang on for dear life. This was when he noticed a white and black patch with a picture of a blood-red fang on his jacket. Flash stumbled over to the pony and searched him, to find a note in one of his pockets.

Through shaking hooves Flash opened the letter and started reading -

Here is your ticket to the Crystal Empire-

Make no mistake, the job on the Captain's life is still in motion. We have another bidder, one who is offering even more money. Make sure you get the job done.

Flash sighed, Will I ever get a break from this? he wondered. He put the note in his pocket and sat back. Who else would want me dead? Flash couldn't think of anypony other than Jagged Wing who wanted him dead.

A hoof came in contact with Flash's shoulder. He turned around to see Rustle, a pained look stained his face. Flash stood up and faced him. "I'm sorry you had to see that Rustle." Flash lowered his head. "I hope you see why I had to do what I did."

Rustle shook his head. "I won't judge you any differently. But who was he? Why was he after you?"

Flash tapped his muzzle with a hoof. Then sighed, "It's something that is not for your ears to hear. Sorry, I just can't tell you."

"I understand." Rustle nodded.

Flash looked at his uniform. "Well, what am I suppose to wear when I meet Shining Armor?" Blood dripped down his blue uniform on the right side. Flash flattened his ears. "I don't suppose you have a washing machine on board, heh." He joked, disappointment hinting at his voice.

One of the train staff came in now, the stallion wearing a grey cap starred at the now dead pony in the middle of the car. He covered his muzzle with a hoof in shock, and looked at Flash. He pointed a shaking hoof at the body, "D-Did you d-do that?" he trembled.

Flash nodded, "Had to. Sorry."

The staff member dropped his gaze to Flash's uniform. "I assume that was from the brawl?" Flash nodded in confirmation. The pony's climbed its way back to Flash's face. "Are you Captain Flash Sentry?"

"Yes." Flash responded. "Does it matter?" He asked the staff member.

The stallion's face lit up, and he bowes. "Yes sir, it does. Captain Shining Armor ordered a private room for you." He turned around beckoned Flash with a hoof. "This way sir."

Flash followed the stallion through the door, but before he left, he looked back at the room he was just in and shivered. I thought this trip could keep me away from the guys for a while. Flash sighed, Guess I was wrong.

As the distance between him and the room in which another horrible experience just to place when Flash heard hooves behind him. He quickly stopped and turned around to see his brown-furred friend, Rustle. "Hey, you leavin' without me?" He joked.

"Sorry Rustle. I forgot about you." Flash grinned. "You tagging along?"

Rustle shrugged. "I don't see why not."

The staff pony lead the Flash and Rustle several cars away from their previous location. When he opened the door to thr last car he stepped aside. "This is your room sir." He said as he bowed to Flash.

"Thank you." Flash took a bit out and dropped in it the stallion's hoo, who thanked him gratefully.

When he stepped into the room, Flash took a look around. There was a bunk bed and dresser with a window looking out to the open plains they were crossing. He looked back at the bunk bed, then to Rustle. "How convienent. Want to stay with me?" He chuckled as he asked his friend.

Rustle smiled, "Sure!" He exclaimed. "When are we suppose to arrive in the Crystal Empire?"

Flash shrugged. "Four or five hours I think." Flash yawned. "I think I might sleep to blow time, plus I didnt sleep much last night."

Rustle nodded. "I'm not tired. I'm going to head back out to the lounge car. See you later I guess." He turned and walked out of the car, leaving Flash alone.

Flash yawned again as he slipped out of his uniform and climbed into bed. "Yeah, see ya." With those words the tired captain drifted off to sleep.

~

A violent shake rattled Flash's body. He groaned, and barely opened his eyes, only to close them again. The shaking grew more intense until Flash finally sat up and rubbed his eyes. "What is it?!" He groaned, and looked over to see who had interrupted his sleep. It turned out to be Rustle standing adjacent to his bed. "Flash! Get up we're here!" He told him, over-excitement hinting at his voice.

Flash yawned. "Where is that?"

"The Crystal Empire, duh." Rustle chuckled. "Are you really that clueless when you first wake up?"

Flash slid out of the bed and walked over to the window. "Not usually." He grinned back at his friend, who walked up next to him. The view of the Crystal Empire was always fascinating. A city powered by a Crystal Heart. Flash felt warmth take over his chest. "It's been so long since I've been here."

Rustle looked at Flash. "Wait, what? When were you last here?"

"Years ago, this was where I starting training for the Royal Guard." He explained. "Though I didn't grow up here, I was sent here to train." Flash recalled his younger years with joy as a smile crept across his muzzle.

Rustle nodded, absorbing what Flash had just told him. "Looks like a great place. It's my first time here, so I'm very excited."

Flash chuckled. "I can tell, you look like you're about to explode with happiness." It was true, for Rustle seemed a little to eager to set foot in the great city.

The train finally began to come to a screeching halt as it pulled into the train depot. When Flash and Rustle gathered their things and waited at the doors, they were shocked to see guards flood the train when the doors swung open. The duo looked at each other. Flash shrugged and the two stepped out into the great city.

Rustle gazed in amazing as his vision panned around the city. Flash just smiled merely at his friend's astonishment of the city. He walked on until he found the pony he was looking for. Flash shivered, "I've forgotten how cold it can get in the north." He saw that Rustle wasn't paying attention, and rolled his eyes. "I'll leave you to it."

Flash ran over to the tall, white furred pony and saluted him. "Captain Shining Armor. So nice to meet you again." Shining Armor looked at Flash and saluted back.

"Good to see you too Flash. Glad you made the train. Was the ride ok?" He asked Flash. Who nodded his approval. "Good, now I know you have something to tell me in private, shall we reside to the castle?"

Flash nodded. "You lead, sir. This is you're empire." Shining grinned, and nodded. The two ponies headed to a carriage waiting for them with pegasi who would fly it to the castle.

Well, made it. Now I just gotta tell him. But how? Flash drifted back to the dark reason why he had came.

Author's Notes:

I'm pretty sure I just wrecked the entire timeline in this chapter. Oh well, let me look for some duct tape, I'm sure I have some around here. Anyway, I'm afraid that I'm also putting to much violence into the story, which is odd because I'm not a violent person. I plan on toning it down unless you guys like it (for some reason) and adding more of the romance to the story like I originally planned. Also, I really need to stop procrastinating (lets see how far that goes) because I did again, which is why the chapter is short. I just hope you enjoy, because I'll work extra hard (maybe) on the next chapter! Enjoy!

Chapter 7: A Dangerous Deed

Shining Armor led the way up to the amazing castle that had an unusual amount of luster to it. Probably from the crystals in it. Flash concluded as he followed Shining.

"I kind of was expecting you to be wearing your uniform." Shining called to Flash, who turned his head to the side at the statement.

Flash rubbed the back of his neck. "I was, at least until a quarter way through the train ride."

Shining stopped and turned around. "Why, what happened? Flash, is there something wrong?" He got in Flash's face as he asked him.

Flash took a few steps back. "Uh, let this explain it." Flash opened his bag he had brought with him and pulled out his uniform, still bloodstained, and showed it to Shining, who reared back in shock.

"Who did this to you?" Shining gasped. Flash put the uniform away.

"Well. You see, it's not who did it to me, but what I did to somepony." Flash began to explain.

Shining seemed to crept up to Flash. "What did you do?"

Flash took another step back. "I was attacked on the train by a pony with a knife. When he was an inch from killing me a took out my own knife and stabbed him." Flash rubbed the back on his neck in pity. "If I deserve a punishment then do so as you see fit."

Shining sat back. "I don't see any punishment necessary since it was out of self-defense, but when I ask if the train ride was ok, I would like to know if anything goes wrong. Understand?"

Flash nodded, and Shining then shot a quizzical look at Flash. "Where do you have a knife? I don't see one." He said as he scanned Flash's body for a weapon.

"Um, right here." Flash flicked his wrist which extended the blade from under his glove. Shining looked at it with astonishment as Flash lifted his hoof to show him.

Shining looked at the glove and the blade. "Where did you get that? I-I've never seen anything like it."

Flash retracted the blade back into the glove. "I bought it from an engineer who had the design but nopony to back it. I liked it, so I funded him."

"With what money?" Shining asked.

Flash took the glove off. "My own. Want to try it?" He asked. Ugh, I'm delaying the inevitable, but who cares? He may like it. Flash sighed in his mind.

Shining took the glove and slide it on. "Ok now just flick your wrist, gently." Flash instructed, and Shining obeyed. As he flicked his wrist, the blade extended, and a smile grew across his muzzle.

"This is an incredible piece of weaponry." Shining said as he took off the glove and gave it back. "You have to tell me the makers' name sometime."

Flash put it back into his bag. "Yeah, it comes in handy."

When the two ponies reached a room on the far side of the castle, Shining opened the door and allowed Flash to enter, who thanked him and walked on. As the two were in the room and the door was closed, Shining turned to Flash.

"So," He began. "Why did you need to see me? What's the occasion?" He asked.

Flash exhaled slowly, unsure of what to say. "Um Shining, it's about Princess Twilight...She - er - I mean -" Flash was stopped by a hoof touching his muzzle.

Shining leaned in closer. "What has happened to my little sister?" His breath ran across Flash's muzzle.

Flash was almost scared of the tall white stallion. "N-Nothing, but, you see. I kinda think she, uh." Flash felt like he had shrunk, lowering his head, he muttered what felt like his last words. "She likes me."

"She what?" Shining listened closer. "Speak up."

Flash stared at him. "She loved me Shining, and the feeling is mutual. I want to ask if you were ok with it."

Shining sat back, his teal eyes piercing Flash like a laser. He tapped his hoof to his mouth a few times before responding. "Flash." He began. "I respect you, and trust you with full capabilities of the Royal Guard. But, this - this is a whole new thing. Are you sure she feels this way?"

Flash nodded. "Very."

"Explain please." Shining pressed.

What am I back in the court room? Flash sighed at Shining's response. "Well, she kind of told me, a-and kissed me." Flash stared at the floor.

Shining stood up, the great pony seemed to tower over Flash. "I just want to ask for you to allow Twilight's and my love for each other to 'bloom', so to say." He reasoned.

Leaning closer, Flash felt like he was going to get a hoof to the muzzle, but instead Shining stopped and stood up straight. He cleared his throat, then sighed. "You have my blessing Flash. I trust you enough to love my Twily." He seemed to smash into Flash's face, bringing him inches to his muzzle. "But if anything happens to my little sister. You're going to get it." He growled at Flash, before sitting back again. "Understand?"

Flash swallowed what seemed like a stone. "Yes sir." He trembled.

Shining dipped his head. "Then you have my blessing." He sighed, accepting that Flash loved his little sister. "I'll tell Cadance, she'll be delighted to hear." He managed to smile a little.

Flash bowed to Shining, holding back a smile. "Thank you sir."

When he rose to his hooves, to two ponies stared at each other for a few moments in an awkward silence. "Is that all you needed Flash?" Shining broke the silence.

"Well, actually I was wondering -" The sound of the doors opening interrupted Flash's sentence. When he looked over, he noticed Princess Cadance walking in.

She looked over at him and smiled. "Flash Sentry. It's so good to see you!" She gleamed. "What brings you back to the Crystal Empire?" She asked him, smiling with glee.

Flash rubbed cross his legs. "I just wanted to talk to Shining about something."

Cadance tilted her head. "About what?"

"Him and Twilight's - love interests." Shining cut in, and Flash's cheeks grew hot pink with embarrassment.

Cadance clapped her hooves. "Oh that's so great! Congratulations to you two! I know you'll make my little Twilight very happy Flash!"

Flash nodded, "Thank you Princess." his fur burning with the comfortably thought of the news being spread.

A guard skidded to a halt at the entrance of the doors. "You're Highness!" He sped into the room where the three ponies sat. He seemed to be out of breath. "Urgent news from Canterlot!" He panted. "Captain Flash Sentry is required to return immediately!"

Flash glanced at the guard, then to Shining and Cadance. "I will give you a ride back to Canterlot. Follow me." Shining headed out of the room, Flash tailing him along with the Crystal Guard.

Flash gathered his things and headed to a balcony of the castle where a carriage with two pegasi waited. Shining gestured for Flash to climb aboard, and he obeyed. Shining leaned on the side of the carriage. "This will take you back to Canterlot as fast as possible." He walked to the two pegasi up front. "As fast as you can colts."

The guards saluted. "Yes sir." One said, and with that, the carriage took off into the air quickly. Flash waved good-bye to Shining and Cadance, who waved back. Once out of sight, he turned around to watch the front of the carriage, he leaned over the edge and smiled. He enjoyed getting to see the Crystal Empire again, even if his "trip" was cut short.

He let his thoughts drift to Twilight. Her perfect purple mane, her beautiful amethyst eyes that sparkled. Flash became very dreamy, and slouched in the carriage. The rest of the trip would be nice and quiet.

~

"Captain! We are about to land!" The pegasi startled Flash from his day-dreams. He sat up., "What? Huh? I right here!" He looked around, and saw the Canterlot skyline. "Oh, ok! Thank you!" He called to them. The 8 hour train ride had become a rather short 3 hours. Flash was impressed at the pegasi's speed.

As the carriage touched down on a Canterlot Castle balcony, Flash climb out and was immediately met by his two friends. Both had panicked expressions on their faces.

Flash lost his smile he had gained from daydreaming. "What's wrong?" He asked in a mildly serious tone.

"It's Twilight, Flash." Night Breeze's tone was shaken. "She's disappeared. We don't know how or where she went."

Flash's heart fell to the pits of his stomach. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. He had just been dreaming about what he could now tell the mare he loved, and next thing he learns, is that she is gone.

In disbelief, Flash looks to his friends. "Let's go." He ordered, and takes off to his destination, Twilight's room.

When they skidded to a halt at the door to her room, Flash told his friends to wait for a second. Flash opened the door to the room, peered around, making sure it was clear, then gestured his friends to follow.

Once inside the room, the ponies turned to each other. "Why are we here Flash?" Dust asked.

"Because nopony just disappears without a trace. Look for clues, anything." Flash told him. "Let's get to work."

The ponies sifted through the room, checking everything - under the bed, the closet, any signs of breaking and entering. Finally, Flash went to check under a drawer near the door. As he perks up, he notices a piece of paper hanging from the door. "Night Breeze, Dust. Found something!"

The two rushed over to Flash as he pulled the note off the door. "What is it?" Dust asked, and Flash held up the note.

"A note?" Night Breeze asked in disbelief.

Flash shrugged. "Guess so, listen." He read the note out loud -

"We have your Princess, all we want is a simple exchange. Cooperate, and she lives. Defy, and she dies. It's simple really, Captain Flash Sentry. Come to the old abandoned mill outside of Canterlot for the deal tomorrow at midnight. Bring nopony, or else the Princess dies." Flash finished and stared at his friends wide-eyed, which they were too.

Night Breeze sat back, startled. "What do we do?"

Flash folded up the note and put it into his pocket. "I'll go after her."

Dust put a hoof on Flash's shoulder. "You can't do that. You'll die."

Flash spun around and looked at him, eyes welling with tears. "What choice do I have? Let a humble captain die or a Princess of Equestria?" He almost sobbed. He inhaled with his eyes closed, and then opened them and stared at Dust. "I'm going after her Dust. It's me these ponies want." He looked at the ground. "And it's her I love."

Night Breeze picked his head up and looked at Flash, both their mouths hung open at what Flash just revealed. Thought Night Breeze already knew about Flash's love, Dust didn't causing his reaction to be more, shocking. He merely closed his mouth and stared at Flash for a few moments. "Seriously?" He breathed.

Flash nodded. "It may not be allowed for regular guards to love a pony they protect, but I do know that it is allowed for the Captain to love a Princess. Take Captain Shining Armor for example." He pointed out, and the two ponies glanced at each other and nodded their understanding.

"Dust." He glared at his tan colored friend. "I don't want to hear a word about it."

Dust reared back and put his hooves up. "I'm not saying anything. I think its kinda cool."

Flash nodded. "I just need to think of something. I've got a day to think." Flash almost sounded like he was losing his mind. His voice trembled and he was heaving heavily with each word.

"Flash. I think you need to lie down." Night Breeze put one hoof on and Flash's shoulder and one of his chest. "You're worrying too much. We'll get her back, don't worry." He soothed.

Night Breeze guided his friend out of the room, but Dust stayed behind in the room. When the two ponies were out of sight, he went over to a part of the room, where shards of glass littered the ground. He looked up at the broken window, he knew what had happened here.

A kidnapping, to get leverage at Flash, he was happy that his friend hadn't seen this, for Dust knew that this probably would have made his worrying even worse considering that this group was able to infiltrate the most secure place in Equestria and escape without even being seen.

Dust walked over and picked up one of the shards of glass on the ground. How could somepony get here? He thought as he looked at the shard, then at the broken window. Who was on guard duty at the time? How could they not of heard the glass? Unless... No. He dropped the shard and broke into a full gallop to get to Flash's office as fast as possible.

Flash was reviewing maps of the location that was said to be holding Twilight when Dust burst into the office. Flash calmly put down his maps and looked at his friend. "That was quite an entrance Dust. What can I do for you?" He commented.

Dust was shocked by how much he had calmed down already. "Feeling better so soon?"

Flash shrugged. "Night Breeze got me back to normal."

"Anyway. I think I know what happened for sure Flash." Dust put a hoof on his desk.

Flash leaned in closer. "If you any information as to what happened, tell me."

Dust leaned in. "What if I told you this only happened because two ponies in this guard are double agents?"

"What are you saying?" Flash's gaze grew intense. "Dust. Are you hinting at one of our guards being traitors?"

Dust nodded. "Unfortunately sir, I am. You see, one of the windows were broken in the Princess's chamber, this would have easily been heard by a guard, unless they weren't really keeping watch."

Flash leaned back in his chair and ran a hoof through his mane. "Great." He muttered sarcastically. "Any ideas on who?" He asked.

"Sorry. I don't, but I think we should ask Princess Luna which one of her guards were posted there that night." He suggested.

Flash nodded. "I'll go with you." He stood up from his desk and headed out the door. "Let's go."

The two trotted down the hallway back to the Royal Chambers' section of the Castle. When they reached their destination, which was Luna's chambers, they were greeted with Luna leaving her chambers.

"Excuse me, Princess Luna!" Flash called out, and the Princess turned around to see them.

She waved. "Greeting Captain Flash Sentry. What can I do for you?" She greeted him.

Flash cleared his throat. "I was wondering if you could tell me which one of your Night Guards were posted outside Princess Twilight's bed chamber last night."

Luna tapped his chin with a hoof, then returned her gaze to the two ponies. "I don't remember, I have the papers in my chambers. Follow me Captain."

She turned around and opened her door, Flash and Dust followed into the chambers. It was lined with a few books and was colored a navy blue on the walls. Luna levitated a book over to her with her magic, as she opened it and flipped through the pages until she reached the page she was looking for, but gasped when she reached it.

Flash stared at her. "What is it Princess?"

She showed them the book. "Someone has been in here. For the page for that date has been removed from this book." She looked at it again. "This book holds the names of my guards who guard every position each night, and that night the names of the guards who guarded Princess Twilight's chambers have been removed from the book."

Dust and Flash exchanged a nervous glance, Flash returned eye contact to Luna. "Princess, we have reason to believe that some of your guards are double agents, or traitors in total." He told her.

Luna reared back. "What! 'Tis a lie! Thy guards wouldn't dare betray the sacred oath they have taken!"

"But they have." Flash interrupted. "You see, on that night, the pony infiltrated the bed chambers by breaking into a window. Then even left a note on the door. Any normal guard would have heard the glass, but if they were a traitor, they would ignore it and act like nothing happened."

Luna stared at the ground. "I suppose you are correct Flash Sentry." She looked up at him. "How are we suppose to find the traitors?"

Dust stepped forward. "There really isn't a way, but what we can try, is when the Captain goes to the "exchange" location, we can send along a team to capture the leader of them. Whatever her name was, Kingfish or some stupid name."

"Are you proposing we put the Captain's life in danger?" Luna stared at Dust.

Flash cut in. "Princess, if that is what we need to do to save Princess Twilight, then that's what I'll do. I'm willing to take my life to save her's." He admitted. Luna sat back and looked at Flash.

"I have much respect for you Flash Sentry. If you are willing to go along with Dust Storm's plan, then you may." She accepted his decision. "If thou should need anything, please do not hesitate to ask for such." She told him.

Flash nodded thankfully. "I appreciate it Princess, but we can handle this. I need you to try to find out who the traitors are. Don't announce it to your guards, or the traitors will know their cover is blown, and they will leave."

Luna nodded. "I understand. Now go, prepare your troops for battle. Best of luck Flash Sentry." Flash and Dust then turned around and left the Princess alone as they exited her room.

Flash looked at Dust with worried eyes once out in the hallway. "Dust." He breathed.

"Yes?"

"Get Night Breeze, and meet me at my office as soon as possible." He ordered. With those words Dust took off and Flash headed in the oppsite direction back to his office in the HQ.

Flash was already in his office and had 3 maps of the area where Twilight was up on a bulletin board when Night Breeze and Dust walked in.

"Flash." Dust began. "I got Night Breeze."

Flash was drawing circles and lines corrisponding to each other on the maps. He turned around to see his friends. "Good." He turned back around and continued working.

Dust walked so he was adjacent to Flash. "What are you doing?"

Flash tapped the pen on his chin. "Mapping out possible entry points, ambush locations and other stuff." He explained.

Dust nodded. "Hmph. Good idea." He pointed to a circle on the map. "Are we staging here?"

"Yes." Flash nodded. "From there we will split up and have two teams on each side of the compound." He slid a hoof across the map, indicating the directions they would be going in. "When we are all in position I will move up to the warehouse." He turned to Dust, his looked stern and serious. "This is when you two will be most important."

Flash gaze grew intense. "When I am taken inside of the compound, I need you to signal the Wonderbolts to silently take out the outdoor guards."

Night Breeze's eyes went wide. "The Wonderbolts are going to be alongside us?"

Flash nodded. "They will be. This is the Princess we are talking about. We're going to make these ponies regret their decisions."

The Wonderbolts and the Royal Guard are going to be a formidable fighting force against the clan. Flash went back to his desk and sat down.

He folded his hooves across his chest and looked at his friends. "Now both of you get some sleep. It's late. Rally the guard and meet in the prep room at 2100 tomorrow night for debrief." He ordered them.

Night Breeze and Dust saluted and fled the room quickly. Flash leaned forward and pulled out a drawer from his desk and pulled out a picture. He held up the picture, "I'm coming for you Twilight." The picture was Twilight on the day she became a princess. Flash ran a hoof over the picture and sighed, then put the image back into the drawer and put it back in the desk.

Flash then took a piece of paper out and a pen and wrote to his allies-

Captain Spitfire,

I request that you and your Wing Commanders meet me and my Senior Royal Guards in the Canterlot Castle debrief room at 2100 tomorrow night to discuss the missions outline. This is an absolute necessity.

Captain Flash Sentry

Flash folded up the letter and put it into an envelope. He stood up and walked out into the lobby and up to the desk mare, Moonshine.

"Moonshine, could you do me a favor and mail this to Cloudsdale? Wonderbolts' HQ please." He told her.

Moonshine stood up and took the letter from him. "Of course sir." She walked out from behind her desk and trotted out of the room to the mail room of the castle.

Flash looked at the clock in the lobby, he noticed just how late it was, for it was 11:15 PM. He yawned, exhausted, he began to drag his hooves as he walked out of the Royal Guard HQ and down the corridors that seemingly went on forever.

Passing one of the Night Guards, he was stopped by the unicorn. "Sir, are you alright?" He asked Flash in a groggy voice.

"I'm -" Flash's sentence was cut off by another massive yawn. "Fine, thank you."

The guard shook his head. "I'll escort you back to your room sir."

Flash was too tired to respond, let alone complain, so he accepted the guard's help. Flash continued to drag his hooves on the soft red carpet as he trekked back to his room with the guard.

Finally making it to his room, Flash unlocked and turned around to the guard, thanked him and went into his room. Ever since he was accepted back into the Royal Guard, he didn't need the hotel that he had previously used anymore, so it was returned.

Flash flopped onto his bed with the last bit of energy he had. He yawned, covered himself with a blanket and fell asleep in a matter of seconds.

Outside his room, two of Luna's Night Guards were whispering while patrolling.

"You learned anything?" One asked in a carefully quiet voice.

The other shook his head. "Nothing yet. Flash Sentry doesn't share any of that kind of info with Night Guards, only the day ones."

"That's ridiculous, we should nab him just like the Princess."

"Don't be stupid, our cover would obviously be blown, you know they doubled the patrols at night after that." The stallion swept a hoof over his friend's head playfully.

The stallion's friend corrected his now crooked helmet. "Yeah, yeah. What do you think Kingfish is gonna do with the Princess after Flash turns himself in? Because we all know that he won't leave her there."

The first stallion shrugged. "Who knows, but she is probably going to keep the Princess, and use her for even more leverage against the rest of Canterlot, and maybe even the rest of Equestria." He suggested.

"Maybe, just maybe."

The voices died down as the stallions continued down the hall until they were inaudible. Little did the guards know that their cover had already been blown, and Flash was hard on their trails, so were the Royals.

One thing is clear though, if Flash were to be killed in the tomorrow night attack, then traitors would be running wild with no remorse, for the most revered pony would be out of the way. The plan has to work. Flash thought as he continued to dream. If we lose, what will happen to the guard? Or worse, what will happen to Twilight?

Author's Notes:

Oooo, next chapter is going to be fun. I plan on adding romance by the masses next chapter. This chapter was fun to write, because it consisted of my favorite aspects of any book/story. I'm also happy to include Luna and the Wonderbolts in this story finally! So anyway, I do hope you all enjoy and I'll get to work on the next chapter ASAP. Also, I am looking for anyone who could possibly do some cover-art for me? Maybe I'm jumping the gun on this, I don't know, but cover-arts do draw attention. Message me if you are up for it. Either way, enjoy the chapter, and keep on the look-out for Chapter 8!

Chapter 8: Fight or Flight

Flash woke up in a daze, he woke up sluggishly. He licked his lips a few times and yawned tiredly. He put his back hooves on the ground before scooting himself off the bed. He ran a hoof through his messy mane and walked over to the mirror to inspect himself.

It was the same as every morning, for when Flash looked at himself, his mane was in pieces. It was clumped together and not going in any particular direction. He turned on the sink and wet his hooves then ran them through is mane, forcing his navy-blue mane to be slicked back like Flash normally has.

He slumped over to his closet tiredly and opened it. Inside was his polished, purple and yellow armor that only Captain's had and his uniform. With a couple other casual clothes scattering the floor of the closet, which he ignored completely and pulled out his Royal Guard Uniform and slipped into it and walked out the door.

Flash took a deep breathe and looked over at a clock on the wall, which read 12:08. I really overslept. Flash thought to himself. He shrugged, and walked off to the headquarters.

As he passed the guards lining each corridor they saluted him. Flash smiled, I'll never get used to that. As he made it to his destination, he walked in, said 'hello' to the desk-pony, Moonshine, and went into his office.

Flash sat down at his desk and looked at the papers on his desk, a newspaper on top of everything, the headline reading "PRINCESS DISAPPEARED! POSSIBLY KIDNAPPED?". That's when the realization of the current events smacked Flash from his sleepy mood. He leaned back on his chair put a hoof over his mouth.

That's when he remembered, tonight was the search and rescue mission. A joint operation between the Royal Guard and the Wonderbolts' to get Princess Twilight back.

Flash slammed a hoof into his desk in anger. How could he let this happy to her. Flash began to blame himself for Twilight's kidnapping, but more matters were needed to be attended to. The press were going crazy over this story, and they needed to be satisfied. He stood up and walked out to Moonshine, writing out papers at her desk.

"Moonshine." The mare perked up and looked at Flash.

"Yes Captain?"

"Call for a press meeting in 30 minutes. They will tear down the castle if we don't give them something." Flash ordered. Moonshine nodded and took off out of the HQ and out of sight.

Flash walked out after Moonshine had left and walked down the hallway to the main castle gate. When he arrived, he was bombarded by ponies standing at the entrance. Flash looked around, at least 20 guards stood at the gate of the castle from shoulder to shoulder, spears in hoof and fully outfitted in golden plated armor.

He was impressed with his guard. They responded to the situation well and quickly. He walked to the front of the guard's defensive line to address the crowd. Cameras immediately flashed into his face and reporters screamed questions which were inaudible over the sounds that filled Flash's ears outside the castle.

Flash raised a hoof and began to address the anxious crowd. "All Press Ponies! Pay attention or lose valuable information!" All of the noise stopped instantly. Flash cleared his throat and shouted out. "We are having a press meeting in 30 minutes! Make sure you have a Castle Press Security Pass to gain entrance to the castle!" He yelled to the crowd. "That is all." With that Flash turned around and walked back into the castle, the guards immediately filled in the gap Flash had left when he walked through them.

Trotting down the corridors to the press room, Flash noticed a group of ponies carrying the Canterlot flag. The moon and sun aligned on the vertical axis with Luna and Celestia circling their respective stars on a background of blue stars and purple shading.

Even though Flash had seen the flag before, he was still stunned at how massive it was. At least a width of 20 feet and a length of 38 feet. Either way you slice it, the flag was huge. "Are you bringing that to the press room?" He asked the group. The leader nodded. "I'll accompany you." Flash told them and trotted alongside the group.

The ponies all carried the flag down to the press room, once there they hoisted it up and hung it from the ceiling right above the podium that Flash would stand at to address the press. He nodded to the ponies, and they left the press room. Flash looked at the clock on the wall. In 10 minutes the press would flood the room with questions regarding their princess.

Flash pivoted on his hooves and faced the door and walked out. He quickly trotted down the hallway to get back to the HQ before he had to return to the press room.

When he arrived, he was shocked to see that Moonshine was not at her post. In fact, nopony was even in the HQ, except for the two guards at the door. Flash walked around trying to find anypony, but it was useless, they were all gone. He rushed out the HQ and back to his room, quickly switched out of his Royal Guard Uniform and into his beautiful, polished armor. The purple backplate, helmet, and hoof guards all outlined with a yellow line.

Flash slipped into his armor easily, after he finished getting suited up, he rushed back to the press room with about a minute to spare. He waited off to the side of the podium, behind a curtain, where nopony in the audience could see him. Night Breeze was at the podium calming the press as Dust walked up behind Flash.

"Never did like standing in front of crowds, did ya Dust?" Flash asked his friend, aware of his presence.

Dust chuckled shyly. "You know me Flash. I hate public speaking." He ran his eyes up and down Flash's armor. "You look good."

Smiling at his friend, Flash responded. "Thanks, I did it in record time." The two shared a laugh before Flash was called to go up to the podium. He looked to Dust, "Wish me luck." and walked up to the podium, the entire room grew silent.

Flash cleared his throat and began to address the crowd. "Thank you all for coming to this meeting. I presume you all want to know about the whereabouts of Princess Twilight Sparkle." No pony moved as Flash darted his gaze among the press ponies. "The current situation is as follows. At approximately 1800 last night a group of rebels broke into the Canterlot Castle and kidnapped Princess Twilight."

Ponies started shouting questions at Flash, who simply raised a hoof to silence them. "For the safety of the Princess, I am not going to disclose anymore information except that we are breaking all available resources to get her back. I entrust that you understand."

The press began shouting at Flash again, who interrupted them abruptly. "Please! I ask that all ponies all over Equestria hope, and wish for the safe return of Princess Twilight Sparkle. Thank you." He finished.

Night Breeze took the podium again as Flash left it. The press shouted more and more questions at Night Breeze as he tried to settle them.

Flash rustled in his armor, he wasn't used to wearing armor ever since he became Captain, he had been wearing his uniform all the time. In fact, he hadn't even worn armor since he was an ordinary guard, but Flash's thoughts about how uncomfortable his armor was were interrupted by Dust rushing up to him.

"Don't like your armor huh?" He smirked.

Flash grinned at his friend. "Shut up. I haven't work this stuff in ages."

Dust rolled his eyes. "Then I guess your definition of 'ages' is a few weeks?"

Flash shoved his friend playfully, then looked up to see the Canterlot Clocktower, which read 2:00 PM. "Dust, get Night Breeze and go find all the top-ranking Senior Royal Guards. I need you to tell them about tonight meeting with the Wonderbolts. Tell them its urgent too."

Dust nodded, then saluted, and ran off to get Night Breeze, who was probably still arguing with the press. Then again, Night Breeze had a way with words. A voice of reason, he could be considered. Flash trotted back to the HQ, this time seeing Moonshine at her post.

"Where were you earlier Moonshine?" Flash questioned the mare.

Moonshine pulled out a letter from her desk. "Mail room. This came in for you." He handed Flash the letter, who took it and read the address label that said "Wonderbolts' Headquarters, Cloudsdale".

Flash stared at the letter. Well this is my response from Spitfire. Instead, he mutter out a simple, "Hmph. Thank you Moonshine."

"You're welcome sir."

Flash trotted back into his office and tore open the envelope and pulled out the letter, which he proceeded to read quietly -

"Captain Flash Sentry,

Me and my Wing Commanders will be there at 2100 tonight. We understand the necessity of the mission and will have all our troops ready.

Captain Spitfire

Flash looked over the short letter with satisfaction. With the Wonderbolts on their side, they had a very high chance of winning this fight.

On the clock, Flash noticed it read 2:15, and decided to go back to his room to rest up. He trotted out of the his office and stopped just before he left he Headquarters. He looked at the door that lead to the briefing room. Maybe I should review the intel a little more before the Wonderbolts get here.

Flash walked over to the door, and stepped into the large room with an oval table in the center of it. There was a board at the front of the room with a map on it, and folders had been neatly placed in front of each of the chairs around the table. Someone did I good job of setting this place up for the meeting. He thought to himself.

He walked over to the map, made sure all the places were correct, then went to each individual folder to make sure it had the proper, and informative information inside it.

Flash even went back to his office to make sure everything was ready, and after hours of running back and forth between the briefing room and his office, Flash was exhausted went he finished, and decided to go back to his room for some rest.

Passing all the saluting guards as usual, Flash took a scenic route to his room. Going the longer way around the castle to enjoy the stained-glass hallway of all the important moments in history. Flash took his time as he passed the stained-glass masterpieces.

This route Flash took would intertwine with the Royal Chambers, and Flash knew they wouldn't mind him passing through. As Flash passed Princess Luna's bed chambers she stepped out of her room. Flash immediately stepped aside and bowed.

"Ah. Flash Sentry, I was just going to look for you." Luna told Flash. "You may rise."

Flash got back on his hooves and looked at Luna. "For what purpose, Princess?"

Luna looked antsy, for she was almost digging her hooves into the rug layering the floor. "I wanted to notify you on some more information regarding Princess Twilight Sparkle. For the kidnappers have sent me a letter as well."

"Well that's kind of a shocker." Flash flattened his ears.

Luna saddened her look. "Unfortunately, the state of the letter is grim. They promise if you don't show up at the specified time, they will kill the Princess." She obviously was worried about Twilight as much as Flash, if not more.

Flash gritted his teeth in anger. "They just sent the worst letter of their lives." He stared at Luna. "We will make them pay for endangering the Princess's life." He promised.

Luna nodded swiftly. "I entrust you Flash Sentry. Tis' most important that she be returned unscathed. She is precious to my sister and me."

"Of course." Flash nodded his understanding. "Don't worry Princess. She will be good as new when she returns."

Luna shook her head. "You are a voice of reason, Flash Sentry, but do not make promises you cannot keep. She will not return the same." With the flick of her tail she turned and headed back into her room.

Flash stood there in for a second, a ring of confusion going around his head. What does she mean? He started walking slowly back to his room. Luna's words rang in his head, Do not make promises you cannot keep. She will not return the same.

He sluggishly walked into his room and walked over to his mirror. Flash looked at the figure standing in the purple-yellow armor with the blue star on his chest-plate. Flash slid off his helmet and ran a hoof through his hair. He then proceeded to take the rest of his armor off and hang it up in his closet.

Flash crawled into his bed and closed his eyes and let his exhausted body rest for the time being. For tonight, was going to be the most extreme night Flash will ever spend.

~

Nightmares ran ramped through Flash's dreams. He watched in agony as he was helpless to help his beloved Twilight. The worst possible scenario, Flash lived them through his dreams. The major problem was, he couldn't wake up from these dreams. It seemed like he couldn't open his eyes.

Different scenarios kept forming into Flash's eyes, he ran into the compound, was ambushed and taken hostage with the Princess, then he would be executed so they could get their money.

Another scene would be Flash negotiating inside the compound when a guard calls out that he sees multiple Wonderbolts. The guards converge on Flash, overpowering him, he would be brought to his knees, they would kill Twilight in front of Flash, then execute Flash, keeping their promise to the letter they sent Luna.

Flash tossed and turned in his bed for the hours he slept. Mumbling in his sleep, Flash kept reliving his horrific nightmares as to what could possibly go wrong in the mission.

Night Breeze walked into the room at around 8:28 PM to wake Flash up. He was shocked when he saw the mess Flash had made of his bed, but he was still tossing and mumbling in his sleep.

When Night Breeze went to wake him up, he was hesitant. Then he tapped Flash's shoulder with a hoof, which didn't wake Flash up. Then night Breeze shook Flash violently, eventually waking him up with a scream of terror and fear.

Flash panted heavily. Night Breeze stared at him in shock. "Flash! Are you ok?" He almost yelled at him friend in extreme concern.
"What were you dreaming?"

Still panting and sweating heavily, Flash stared at his friend wide-eyed. "The worst. Possible. Scenarios." He curled up into a ball and lied back down on his bed. "I don't want to see anymore of it Night Breeze." He shivered as he laid there.

Night Breeze sat on the edge of the bed. "Flash." He started. "What exactly did you see in these dreams?"

Tears started to well in Flash's eyes as he described the horrific images he saw. The death of him, Twilight, and possibly members of the Royal Guards and Wonderbolts. Night Breeze sat back and took it in. He thought for a moment before responding to Flash's description. "Flash. None of those scenarios are ever going to happen." He soothed. "We will do this. Princess Twilight will be home again by the end of the night."

Flash sat up and sighed. He wiped his eyes and looked to his friend. "Thank you, Night Breeze." He rubbed his eyes again. "What time is it?"

Night Breeze looked over at the clock, then back to Flash. "8:43. We should probably start rallying the guards. The Wonderbolts should be arriving soon."

With a swift nod, Flash stood up out of bed and went over to his closet, pulled out his armor set and began to slid it on. Night Breeze helped him after Flash found himself dropping the piece of armor several times. Flash walked over to the mirror and inspected himself. Night Breeze smiled in admiration. "You really do look ravishing in that armor, if I do say so myself." He commented.

Flash smiled back at his friend, then lifted his helmet and slid it on. "Rally the guards, meet me at the mission briefing room on time." He ordered. Night Breeze saluted his superior and trotted out of the room. Flash followed closely behind him, and followed Night Breeze for a while before they parted ways and Flash headed to the HQ.

When he finally arrived, Moonshine was sitting at her desk. When she noticed him walk him, she stood up and saluted. "Sir. The Wonderbolts are here and waiting for you."

Flash nodded to her. "Thank you." He frowned as he looked in the door window and saw 3 Wonderbolts sitting in chairs. Since when are the Wonderbolts early to something? I thought they would be 'Fashionably Late' or however they call it. He was about to walk in when Night Breeze came down into the HQ with the high-ranking Senior Royal Guards tailing close behind. Dust was among them.

With a nod, Flash opened the door and allowed his ponies to enter the room, and he tailed them. The Wonderbolts stood up as they 4 Royal Guards entered, Flash included. They all exchanged hoof-shakes as Flash waited in the back as the Royal Guards sat down in their respectively tagged seats.

Flash walked up to the first Wonderbolt, a mare with a white mane. She stood up and shook his hoof. "Wing Commander Fleetfoot, pleasure to meet you Captain Sentry."

With a curt nod, Fleetfoot sat down and the next Wonderbolt walked over to Flash. A stallion this time, with a jet-black mane that was slicked back much like Flash's mane-style. He spoke as they exchanged a hoof-shake. "Hey, I'm Soarin. Nice meetin' you Captain Sentry."

Flash smiled and nodded, to him. "As to you Soarin." He walked over to the last pony, a mare, was easily recognizable when she stood up, her light brilliant-orange mane combined with her orange eyes gave her identity away. Flash smiled. "Nice to see you again Spitfire. Been a while."

Spitfire smirked and chuckled a little. She shook his hoof. "It has Flash. Since the night outside the club of ridiculously loud music." The two shared a laugh, then Spitfire pointed a hoof at Flash's armor. "I see you've got a promotion."

Flash shrugged. "You could call it that." Spitfire then sat down and Flash went to the front of the room. He took his helmet off and placed it on the table, then cleared his throat as he looked at the ponies seated in the room. "As you already know this meeting is to discuss a plan in regards to recovering Princess Twilight Sparkle safely, and unharmed." He darted his eyes among the ponies. "If you open the folders in front of you there is a debriefing packet on a possible plan regarding the mission."

The ponies all opened the folders in front of them and read through them. Flash refocused their attention by tapping the map he had set up. "This is how I think it should go, and I'm open to suggestions." He tapped a circle on the map. "This is the compound the Princess is held in. Now they've told us that if anypony but me goes in, they will kill the Princess."

He slid his hoof down to a long line on the map. "What they have overlooked is the terrain of the area. There is a nice hill on the south side of the compound. This will be our staging area." He looked back at the ponies in the room, who's eyes were fixated on the map. Flash looked back to the map and continued. "We will prep here, then wait on the top of hill. I will go approach the compound."

"Um, that's pretty much suicide you know." Soarin interrupted Flash, who rolled his eyes.

With a sigh Flash continued. "Maybe you should let me finish." Soarin sunk back into his chair and continued reading the packet that had been handed out. "As I was saying. After I go into the compound, that's when you guys, as Wonderbolts, will be signaled by Dust Storm here," Flash pointed a hoof at Dust, who raised his hoof to signify himself. "to fly high into the clouds, then fly down onto their position, and take out the guards silently." He strained the last word. "I can't stress stealth enough, because if anyone but me is detected, mission over, me and the Princess are going to be dead."

Fleetfoot leaned onto the table, obviously intrigued in the plan. "Then we better not mess this up."

Soarin nodded his agreement, but kept his muzzle buried in the packet.

Flash darted his vision across the room, but when nopony else spoke he turned back to the map. "After the Wonderbolts take out the hostiles on the roof, Night Breeze's squad will form up at the front entrance. While the Wonderbotls and Dust Storm's squad rendezvous on the roof and prepare for entry."

Night Breeze raised a hoof, which Flash nodded to him. "So, what is the plan for entry?"

"This is the part where I need help on." Flash admitted. "We have multiple options. Dust's team can silently take the guards on the second floor out and you move in after that's done." He listed. "Or we can just all go in at once in a big fight."

Spitfire spoke for the first time in the meeting. "We can start it stealthily, but if we are detected, we go full out."

Flash nodded at Spitfire. "That's actually a good idea, since if we are spotted, we'll have no choice but to go full out." He agreed. "Does anypony have any questions, comments, or suggestions?" When nopony spoke, Flash cleared his throat. "Then go back to your Headquarters and prepare your forces. Meet at the Great Hall where you will debrief your forces on the mission."

The ponies stood up from their chairs and began emptying the room. The only pony that didn't leave was Spitfire. Flash turned to her. "Can I help you Captain Spitfire?"

"Are you sure this is gonna work? Can't we devise a plan that doesn't involve you sacrificing yourself?" Spitfire expressed an unusual amount of concern when she spoke her words.

Flash sighed and smiled at Spitfire. "We all have to sacrifice something, Spitfire. It's what we do for the Princess', and Equestria."

Spitfire smiled back. "You always were one loyal pony, Flash. I hope this works too." She then turned and left the room to fly off with Fleetfoot and Soarin.

Flash left the room and met up with Night Breeze and Dust and left the HQ. When the were out in the hallway Flash turned back to his friends. "Get some rest. Lay down for 10 minutes. It'll do you wonders." The two ponies nodded and walked off to their respective rooms.

A great sigh leaped from Flash's mouth. He was extremely worried about tonight, and hoped with all of his heart that he, Twilight, and his ponies, along with the Wonderbolts be ok at the end of the night. Flash journeyed to the Canterlot Garden and looked out at the great city of Canterlot. He smiled, he loved this place, but he would risk his life to defend it, and that will be proven tonight.

~

The Great Hall was half filled with the entire Royal Guard. Flash oversaw Night Breeze and Dust briefing their squads on the mission, which Flash had stressed how high the stakes were.

The Wonderbolts came in a little later, when the clock read 11:20 PM. Flash walked over to Spitfire. "Captain." He greeted her.

Spitfire nodded to him. "Captain Flash Sentry. I hope we aren't late."

Flash shook his head. "No, you're on time. Just brief your ponies on the mission. We'll talk later."

Spitfire nodded, and rallied up the Wonderbolts and began briefing them when Dust and Night Breeze came up to Flash. "We're all ready Capn'." Dust almost slurred out.

Flash nodded to his friend. "You too, Night Breeze?"

Night Breeze nodded. "All set to go sir."

"Good." Flash smirked. "The Wonderbolts are prepping for the mission."

After some time passed, and the minute hand at rotated on the clock to 40, Spitfire walked up to Flash. "All set to go Flash."

Flash nodded. "Right." He leaped up onto a table and began to address the crowd. "Ponies!" He started, all eyes went on him. "Of the Wonderbolts, and the Equestrian Royal Guard." He darted his eyes among the ranks. "Tonight. We will embark on a mission never before done in Equestrian history. A group of rouge ponies have taken one of our Princesses hostage for ransom."

All eyes were trained on Flash. The only group that wasn't really looking at him were the Royal Guards, who were standing in a formal line and standing at attention. "We will promise them that they have made a big mistake for what they have done, and will the ultimate price for their crimes! Now, I can't promise a free ticket home for everypony. This is going to be a dangerous battle, and not everypony might make it, but I ask for one thing! That you fight, and give it your all! This is what you have signed up for! This is why, you are part of Equestria's finest! Because courage isn't the absence of fear. Courage is the ability to face your fears head on! I know that we will all be afraid to go into battle, but we must stand vigilante, and face our foes head on! Am I right?" Flash yelled out.

The room seemed to erupt with cheers and patriotic screams. Flash smiled as he looked down at the ponies before him, then he ran his vision across Spitfire, who simply nodded. "Now!" He finished. "Into formations! Let's move!" Ponies began flooding out of the room and out of the Canterlot Castle. Marching down the streets in the knight, with the Wonderbolts flying in their own formation above the guards.

Flash lead the entire platoon of Royal Guards all the way to the hill where the staging point was marked. Upon arrival, Flash signaled the Wonderbolts to ground themselves, which they did.

The Royal Guards crawled up the side of the hill so they could peer over. They were definitely in the right place, for guards were all over the top of the building. Shining lights on the ground in all directions.

Flash slid back down the hill to where Night Breeze, Dust, and Spitfire were. "Get ready." He whispered. "I'm going in. As soon as I'm in the compound," He pointed to Dust. "you know what to do."

Dust nodded, then told Spitfire to get in the air, which she signaled the Wonderbolts to do.

Flash exhaled slowly, then got up, put his helmet on, and began walking out. When he became uncomfortably close to the compound, the lights went on him. "Stop there! State your name and business!" A voice called out to him.

Flash put a hoof over his eyes from the blinding light. "Captain Flash Sentry! I was told to come here for Princess Twilight Sparkle!"

The solid wooden doors to the compound opened up, giving way to a dark room. Flash then walked in, and the doors shut behind him.. It's you're turn to dance Spitfire. He thought to himself.

The next door opened to a large room. Flash stepped into it, and a light went on in the middle of the room. Flash's jaw dropped when he saw what he saw. It was Twilight, tied down to a chair. Her horn was covered to prevent her from using magic.

Flash peered closer. Is she sleeping or - great Galaxia... Twilight was unconscious, and a stream of blood ran down the side of her head.

Without thinking, Flash ripped off his helmet, threw it on the ground and galloped as fast as he could to Twilight. When he reached her, he grabbed her head. "Twilight!" He almost pleaded. "Twilight wake up!" He shook her violently, but his efforts were futile, she was knocked out cold.

"You were brave to come here alone Flash Sentry." A voice called out to Flash.

Flash gritted his teeth in anger. "Where are you. Who are you? Show yourself!" He called out to the darkness.

"Oh, Flash, don't you recognize my voice? We've already met." With that line the lights flickered on all around the huge room. Flash stepped back in awe as he looked around him. He was completely surrounded by ponies, armed with spears.

Flash was even more shocked when he looked at the ponies on the second floor. They were wearing Royal Guard armor, just without the helmets, but when he looked closer at their faces, it felt like he got punched in the stomach.

The faces of Senior, and Retired Royal Guards lined the room. Flash stumbled in shock, staring wide-eyed at his once trusted ponies. "You're all Royal Guards?"

"That's - correct." A horribly voice rasped from the second floor. Flash felt his heart skip a beat when he look at the pony who was strapped in a wheel chair.

Flash stared horrified at the pony, the worst part was, he recognized the bent wing on the pony. "J-Jagged W-Wing?"

Jagged Wing managed to crack a smile. "Precisely." He struggled to breathe.

Flash looked around at all the other ponies. "And you all follow his lead? Why?"

"Because he was a good leader. He made us strong." One pony on the second floor replied.

Flash was angered by this. "Even if he did do that, that doesn't give you the right to mutiny!"

The pony yelled back at Flash. "You call it what you want Captain! You're down there, we're up here! We've got the advantage!"

Flash gritted his teeth at the pony. Not for long. He thought. He looked out the window as he saw one of the lights go out. Perfect. He refocused his attention to Jagged Wing. "How are you alive. I snapped you neck!" The memories flooded back to Flash, the night where he broke his Captain's neck and supposedly killed him.

"I thought you would be smarter - than this Flash Sentry. A pony can live - with a broken neck. It just causes - limitations." He rasped a reply.

Flash continued to question the stallion. "Why are you doing this?"

Jagged Wing paused a moment. "Because the Princesses are weak. They don't allow their guards to be strong for the possible threats outside the borders of Equestria. They have sent soldiers to places they don't belong, which have ended in lives being wasted! They need to be disposed of, and that's what the Red Fang is for." He explained.

"Now that you see the reason - behind our cause, Flash Sentry. Would you join our cause." He proposed to Flash.

Flash flattened his ears in disgust. "Jagged Wing. I understand your cause, and Galaxia knows I agree with you, but like all of you I took an oath, to defend Equestria from all enemies. Foreign - Jagged Wing, and domestic. I plan to stay true to that oath and not commit mutiny like you have!" Flash stomped a hoof on the rough ground.

He looked around at the ponies around him. "All of you following this insane stallion. You're under oath as Equestrian Royal Guards. Have you forgotten that?!" He yelled at them. "You may have lost close friends or loved ones in stupid choices made by the Royals, but you all know that mistakes are made, and that doesn't mean to rebel against them! Wisdom comes with experience! For every mistake you make, you become a little smarter!" Flash furiously negotiated with the ponies.

Jagged Wing began to yell from the second floor. "Do not listen to him ponies! He trying to deceive you! Think of the loved ones you've lost due to careless decisions made by your superiors!

"Are you really going to listen to a crooked old Captain, who beat and abused the guards under his command?!" Flash cut in. "I promise you if you drop the weapons now I will see to it that you aren't court marshaled and sent to jail for this!"

Flash noticed out of the corner of his eye bodies falling over, lifeless. I never wanted it to be this way. He looked to the top floor, as former guards were being dragged into the shadows one by one. Flash turned to Jagged Wing. "I never wanted this to happen. But you've given me no choice."

Jagged Wing coughed a laugh. "What are you going to do Flash? You're heavily outnumbered and surrounded!"

Flash darkened his looked. "This." He whispered to himself. With that word, he lunged at the nearest target, and surprised the stallion as he kicked the spear out of his hooves and wrapped his arm around his neck and spun him around so when the pony next to him tried to kill Flash with his spear, the spear stabbed his ally instead.

Once the pony in Flash's arms was lifeless, he let him go. I'm sorry I had to do this. He weeped silently as he lunged at his next, unarmed opponent and managed to hook his hooves around his neck again, this time suffocating the pony, then dropping him to the ground.

Flash turned around to face his next opponent, but not before he could slam the steel spear into Flash's left forehoof. Flash screamed out in agony as he pulled the spear out of him. Blood flowed from the wound, but Flash didn't let that stop him. He charged the stallion, knocking him to the ground and climbing on top of him. Flash continuously shot forceful punches into the ponies muzzle until he was certain he was unconscious.

Flash climbed up, clinging to his wound as he looked around him. He hadn't noticed it but all of his forces were inside and engaging all enemies in the room. The rouge group was easily outnumbered 3 to 1 by Flash's forces.

Jagged Wing was trying to get out, and Flash noticed this, he ran as fast as he could, but stumbled because of his injury. He also had to climb a ladder with one forehoof, which took time, but Flash finally made it up to the second floor. He ran after Jagged Wing as fast as he could, and slammed head-first into him when he reached him.

Flash's arch enemy fell over limp on the floor and Flash walked over to him and looked him in the eye. "This time." He breathed. "You won't be alive, but, even after everything you have done to me. I will regret this." Flash sighed, and he flicked his right hoof, extending his hidden blade, and ran it through Jagged Wings neck. "Goodbye, Captain. I am sorry." He whispered in Jagged Wing's ear as he ended his life.

The battle was winding down now, as the once hostile ponies were surrendering, trying to run away, or the rest. Who, unfortunately, lay motionless on the ground. Flash panted as he was charged from behind. The force of the push from a new attacker forced Flash over the railing on the second floor and fall 10 feet to the first floor.

Flash landed with a crack onto the hard surface. One of his ribs snapped as Flash landed, and he laid on the ground, gasping for air. Blood began to trickle from his mouth as he fought for every bit of oxygen. Flash rolled over onto his stomach, cringing from the pain.

A pair of hooves walked up next to Flash. When he looked up, he saw the face of Kingfish. The pony who disappeared from that faithful day in the Canterlot Castle without a trace. "Hmph. Captain Sentry. I'd expect more of a fight from you."

Flash gritted his teeth. "You won't only get a fight from me. You're getting a fight from the entire Royal Guard, combined with the Wonderbolts. In other words -" He stopped time literally slowed down and Flash took his blade and slashed across Kingfish's forehooves with his blade. As she collapsed to the floor, Flash stood up and loomed over her. "You've met your worst nightmare."

Kingfish gritted her teeth at Flash and spat at him. "Finish me then."

Flash raised his blood-soaked blade once more. "You deserve do die." He told her as he slammed his blade into her chest. She gasped for air, and Flash twisted his blade, and Kingfish slowed her movements. "Any last words?"

Kingfish lifted a hoof to him. "I knew you would be an excellent soldier Flash. Remember my name, Blooming Dasie. Flash - I - I. " She coughed blood in search of oxygen.

Flash lifted her up. "What. You what?"

"I'm p-part of y-you. F-Flash." She gasped.

"What do you mean?!" Flash yelled at her.

She put a hoof on Flash's cheek. "We w-were f-filli-ies to-to-together. I - I w-was your s-s-sister, F-Flash. I - I love y-you, br-broth-er." That's when she slipped from the world of the living, bleeding out in Flash's hooves.

Tears streamed from Flash's eyes and he sat in shock at what he just discovered. I thought my sister died in a fire. That's what I was told. Flash flipped his head back and screamed. "NO!" He sobbed as he held his sister in his hooves.

He hugged his sister's limp body. "Such a waste of life! This should have never happened!" He cried into her mane, that no longer was purple, but pink. Flash leaned back and saw this. He licked his hoof and rubbed her pelt, making the black wear off, revealing her true, yellow fur. Flash sat up in shock. How did I slow time down? She could have easily deflected my knife attack! He questioned, but didn't really care.

Flash couldn't even cry anymore, he had lost all his tears. Night Breeze and Dust trotted over to Flash from behind. "We did it Flash! The plan worked!" They cheered. They grew dark immediately when they saw Flash holding Kingfish. "What's the matter Flash?" Night Breeze asked. "We destroyed the Red Fang, and you killed Jagged Wing and Kingfish! What could be better?"

Flash slowly laid Blooming Dasie's body down on the ground and stood up. He turned around, reviling the tears streaming from his eyes. "It only it was good." He sobbed.

Dust stepped forward. "Flash, what's wrong?"

Flash pointed to the body of Blooming Dasie. "Kingfish? What about her? She tried to kill you!"

Flash shook his head. "That's not true. She would have never killed me. She was my sister, and her name was Blooming Dasie."

Both Dust and Night Breeze's jaw fell to the floor in shock. "What? She. WHAT?" Dust couldn't seem to make sense of it.

"I thought she died in a fire, long ago. Turns out that was a lie." Flash stared at his sister. "She wanted me to become a guard all along, and she wanted me to kill her when she seemed like a bad guy to prove it."

Night Breeze put a hoof on Flash's shoulder. "The most damaged ponies, are the wisest."

Flash smiled at his friend. "Thanks."

Night Breeze nodded. Then pointed a hoof at Flash's injuries. "Might wanna get that checked out."

Flash nodded. "I want you to carry Dasie's body back to the Castle. Ready it for a proper burial."

"And Jagged Wing's body?" Dust asked.

Flash stopped as he began to walk away. He looked back. "I don't care what you do with him." Dust nodded and the two ran off. Flash walked over to Twilight, where she was fully conscious and sitting on the floor in front of a medical pony.

He ran up to her. "Twilight." He spoke softly. Twilight whipped around to see Flash. "Flash!" She simply smiled ear to ear. Flash ran to her and hugged her with all his might. "Are you ok?" He asked her.

She nodded, tears almost forming in her eyes. "I'm fine." She choked on her words. "How are you?"

Flash shrugged. "Scuffed up a bit. Need a doctor, but I need you right now."

Twilight stared at him, and her smile faded. "Flash, what are you saying?"

Flash stared at the mare he had loved for so long. "N-Nothing." He looked away. Not now. Not in front of everypony. Later. "I'll tell you some other time."

Twilight stared at Flash quizzically. "Uh. Ok."

Flash looked back at the princess. "I am glad that you are safe, Twilight. I would hate myself if I lost you." Twilight smiled and the two hugged once more, embracing each other.

When they finally separated, Flash stood back up and looked at Twilight, still smiling. "Have the doc pony fix you up. I'll see you back at the castle." He told her, and she simply nodded.

Flash limped out of the compound with the assistance of some guards. While he was leaving he noticed a brown figure out of the corner of his eye. Flash turned his head to see a familiar pony. Brown fur, with a slicked back brown mane and an hour glass for a cutie mark. Time Turner? Flash dropped his jaw in shock. Time Turner simple smiled and nodded at him. Flash nodded back.

Thank you so much Time Turner. Flash silently called out to him.

My pleasure Flash Sentry. A calm, soothing voice responded in Flash's thoughts.

He quickly perked up and looked back, but Time Turner was gone from sight, and nowhere to be found. Flash refocused himself ahead, as the ponies put him into a carriage with medical ponies that would take him back to the Canterlot Castle.

When he got out of the carriage, a bandage had been wrapped around his left forehoof and ponies were carrying him on a stretcher to the medical ward. Flash smiled at being in the familiar halls again, and with that, he closed his eyes and let his exhaustion take over, and he drifted into a deep sleep on the stretcher.

~

Flash awoke slowly in the hospital bed. Wires were attached to him and he had bandages lining his entire midsection and left foreleg. He looked over to the side slowly, to see Twilight standing at his bedside, smiling. "Good morning sleepy head." She whispered to him.

Flash smiled at his love. "Hi, Twilight. Why are you here?"

Twilight giggled a little. "Why wouldn't I be with the pony I love?"

Flash shrugged. "I dunno. Maybe sitting next to a sleeping pony isn't all that exciting."

"Well then I wouldn't be here for when you wake up." Twilight pointed out.

Flash smiled at her, and then the doors swung open, and a doctor walked in. "Ah good. You're awake." He grinned at Flash as he walked over to his bedside.

"How do you feel?" The doctor asked Flash.

Flash wrapped a hoof around Twilight, bringing her closer. "I couldn't be better doc." He responded, and Twilight smiled and hugged Flash back.

The doctor smiled at the new couple. "That's good." He checked the monitor and the IV's in Flash's arm before walking out. He stopped at the doorway and looked back. "Oh, Captain Sentry. You have one more guest."

Flash raised and eyebrow at this. He didn't say two, so it can't be Night Breeze and Dust. "Who?" He asked quizzically. Flash's question was answered when a brown pony entered the room, smiling at Flash, who's jaw dropped to the floor when he laid eyes on his visitor. "Time Turner..." Flash's voice faded out as he spoke to the pony with the familiar hour-glass cutie mark.

Time Turner simply smiled. "Yes, Flash Sentry." He responded in a calm, relaxing voice.

Flash was at a loss for words. "I - Did you slow down time during my fight?" He asked the only question on his mind.

Time Turner nodded. "How did you do that? Can you control time? Is that your cutie mark?" Flash stared at the hour-glass on Time Turners side.

With a smile, Time Turned nodded again. "Yes, Flash Sentry. Time - and existence of life itself. A Time Lord." He was such a relaxed pony, and understanding. Voicing reason, and logic, over opinion.

"I - I don't understand, why are you here?" Flash asked him.

Time Turner walked over his side. He put a hoof on his forehead. "Hush, Flash Sentry. You have done much for a good cause. Nopony is more deserving of a rest than you. Now, go to sleep." A bright golden light began to stream from Time Turner's hoof and Flash slipped into blackness once more, and his head dropped as he fell unconscious.

Flash woke with a startle, and Twilight rushed over to him. He was still in the hospital bed, but something was off. Flash ran a hoof along his body and his shoulder. No bandages? What happened?

Twilight was holding his hoof, and Flash looked at her as he sat up. "What did Time Turner do?

She was staring at him in the eyes. "He used some aura of golden energy to heal you. It was amazing, he took off the bandages and you were fine again."

Flash stared at Twilight. "How is that possible?"

Twilight shrugged. "I don't know."

Flash slid out of bed and stood on all fours. He rubbed his left hoof a little, in shock that he was perfectly healed. He looked back at Twilight. "Where did he go? I have to thank him."

"I don't know Flash. He left after he healed you. He seemed to be in a rush." She told him.

Flash stared out the door. "Let's go find him." Twilight nodded, and the two took off down the hall to find Time Turner.

The two ran out to the streets looking for him. Twilight tapped Flash's shoulder. "There!" She pointed a hoof to Time Turner who was running to a house. Flash and Twilight ran after him into the house, where they saw Time Turner run into the basement.

Flash ran after him and saw Time Turner leaning over on a table, like he was in pain. "Time Turner!"

Time Turner sat us and stared at Flash. "Stay back!" He yelled at him. Flash stepped back, and put a hoof across Twilight, keeping her back.

"What's going on Time Turner?" He asked him.

Time Turner fell to a hoof. "It's a little thing that Time Lords have, it's a way of cheating death, but with a consequence."

Flash didn't understand. "What do you mean?"

"I used what is called a 'regeneration ability' on you to mend your wounds, but sacrificing time left until my next regeneration. The way it works, is every 7 years, I undergo regeneration, to not die, ever." Time Turner explained. "Only problem is that when regeneration happens, I'm like a totally new pony. New look, and almost complete memory reset."

Flash couldn't believe what he was hearing. "So how did healing me effect you?" He called out to him.

Time Turner was cringing while leaning onto the table. "It used up time. Time until my next regeneration, and because of that. I'm going through regeneration now."

Two and two came together, and Flash understood everything. "Will you remember me?"

"I don't know Flash Sentry!" He almost sobbed. "I - I." He couldn't finish his sentence before he stared at his hoof, which was beginning to glow golden. The light began spreading throughout his body, till he was covered with what seemed like sparkling gold dust. Time Turner looked at Flash with helpless eyes. "I don't want to go." He sobbed to Flash and Twilight.

Flash stepped forward a little. "Time Turner!" He called out, but the Time Lord's body began glowing a bright yellow. The light blinded Flash and Twilight, as they were forced to look away to avoid being hurt by the ferocity of the light.

Time Turner screamed out through the light, but there was nothing Flash or Twilight could do. Once the screaming stopped the light began to dim down, and once it all faded Flash and Twilight looked at the new pony laying on the floor.

The new Time Turner had a bushy mane, curled over to one side, and a more combed, longer tail. Flash rushed over to him and shook him. "Time Turner! Speak to me!"

Time Turner woke up with a startle. "Huh! What? Who?" He looked at Flash. "Hey! You! I don't know you." He looked around the room. "Where am I?"

Flash let go of the new Time Lord and sat back. "You don't remember me."

The Time Turner stared at Flash for a brief moment, then he seemed to get hit by some wave, because he fell back to the ground holding his head, then immediately sat up again. "Ah! Hey! I was doing something!" Time Turner furiously tapped his the sides of his head. "Something of the sort -" He broke off then stared at Flash. "I just went through regeneration! And you! You caused it right?"

Flash darted his eyes around the room. "I guess so. You healed me, which caused you to undergo regeneration. Or something like that."

The new Time Turner stood and paced around quickly. "How badly were you wounded?"

"I had a impaled hoof, and a couple broken ribs." He told him.

Time Turner paced around some more, and spoke extremely fast. "If you had 1 impaled hoof, 2 broken ribs that would possibly take off, uh." He stopped talking and moving for a split second then continued. "Approximately 2.435 years off of my regeneration cycle which means." He stopped and gasped. "I still have approximately 67.23 percent of my memory from my previous life!"

The Time Lord rushed up to Flash. "You're Flash Sentry! Captain of the Royal Guard and hero of Canterlot! I saved your life in the battle of the compound against the Red Fang!" He ran over to Twilight and bowed. "You're Princess Twilight Sparkle! Originally home to Canterlot, you moved to Ponyville in search of the magic of friendship to make friends with Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie! You then moved back to Canterlot because you became a Royal after you finished an old spell started by Starswirl the Bearded! I do remember!"

Twilight and Flash exchanged glances at each other, unsure of what just happened. Flash looked at Time Turner. "So, should we just go?"

Time Turner looked at Flash. "Of yes if you don't want to stay you can go by all means!"

Flash and Twilight left the house quickly, not certain of what they just saw. The went back to the Canterlot Castle to retire to Twilight's bed chambers.

Once inside to two sat down next to each other and hugged. "I'm so happy that you're all ok Flash." Twilight broke the silence.

Flash separated from the hug and stared into Twilight's amethyst eyes. "I'm glad you're safe too. I love you Twilight."

Twilight blinked, then smiled, crimson forming at her cheeks. Flash closed the distance and kissed her, the two embracing each other after their experiences.

They separated for the need of air in their lungs. The two stared at each other, lovestruck. Flash smiled at her, his cheeks flaring a crimson color. "Love you, Twilight."

Twilight smiled back. "Love you more, Flashy." The two hugged again. They would spend much more time now, their love undeniable, and would spend countless years together.

Author's Notes:

I hope this was good, because I stayed up until 4 in the morning working on this. I really wanted to include Doctor Whooves (Time Turner) in this series some how, so I did, and hopefully in a good way. Hey, and guess what. Sequel! Yes I will be continuing this story's timeline in a new story. Keep on the lookout for it!

Chapter 9: Pushing Borders

Flash woke in his bed slowly, he hadn't had a peaceful rest like that in years. He rolled in his bed a little, then stretched out until his hooves quivered.

He slowly slid out of his bed and walked to the window. He opened the blind and squinted at the sunlight now flooding the room. Once he had adjusted to the sunlight he stared outside at sun on the horizon, the birds flying were also in sight.

Flash smiled, he liked his mornings now. Not sliding out of bed to greet a tiresome Flash in the mirror. Well, he still did it now, just, he felt more joyful when he woke up every morning. Even though he'd been getting up later than usual.

The mirror greeted the joyful Flash, with bed-head as usual, and so he stroked his mane backwards gently, fixing it to the right position. It was the same old thing like every morning. He got into his uniform and finished all his other morning procedures.

Flash left him room shortly, and walked down the down the massive halls of the Canterlot Castle for what seemed like the thousandth time. When Flash arrived at the Mess Hall, his was greeted by his fellow guardsmen, some giving a salute to the Captain as he went to get his breakfast.

The tiresome Captain got his food and headed to the table where his friends, Night Breeze and Dust Storm, sat. As he approached the two friends noticed Flash's approached, and greeted him.

"Mornin' Flash." Dust started. Flash nodded to him and Night Breeze, who smiled and gave a curt nod. Flash sat down across the table from his friends and began eating his food slowly, until Dust broke out in laughter. Flash and Night Breeze stared at Dust quizzically.

"What's so funny?" Flash asked.

Dust, barely able to talk from his smirked laughter, tried to speak. "N-No, I-I." He cleared his threat and slowed his outburst of laughter that had attracted the attention of a few other guards. "I was just thinking about how much tail we kicked a few weeks ago when we went up against those Red Fang failures."

Flash lowered his head as memories flooded his mind. The gruesome battle between his Royal Guard/Wonderbolts' Joint Force against the Red Fang organization made up of former and active Royal Guards convinced that Equestria would be a better place if the Royals didn't run it. Flash scanned through his memories and stopped at two different ones, when he killed the crippled Jagged Wing, and then murdered his sister, Blooming Dasie.

The thoughts were crippling Flash in his seat, voices rang through his head, but they were muffled, and inaudible. Eventually a rough shake threw Flash from his thoughts, of Night Breeze calling Flash's name.

"Flash! Snap out of it!" He yelled at him. Flash stopped and looked up at his friends, who stared at him with eyes of worry.

Flash looked around. "Sorry." He shook his head violently, then continued to eat.

Dust sat back and breathed out. "Geez Flash, that's some serious mental stuff to do that to you. How 'bout we change the subject?" He leaned in closer. "What's the deal with you and Princess Twilight." He smirked.

Flash's look grew dark as he looked up from his food. "What about it?" He growled, his voice so threatening Dust slowly moved back and lost his smile.

Dust rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, are you going to, like, propose sometime soon?" He asked unsure of what he was doing.

Flash focused back on his food, and Dust leaned in again. "Have you even bought a ring?" When Flash nodded Dust felt his mouth drop. "Can I see it?"

With a sigh, Flash put down his silverware looked at Dust. "It's in my room. Follow me after breakfast and I'll show you." He looked at Night Breeze. "Both of you."

Night Breeze's face lit up with glee. "This is so exciting Flash! You really deserve her. She obviously loves you back."

Flash shrugged, acting like it wasn't a big deal. "Yeah. I'm just nervous." Before Night Breeze could talk Flash started again. "Just meet me at my room when you're finished here."

He picked up his empty plate and threw it out, and weaved through a crowd of fellow guardsmen out into the long corridor with a long red carpet rubbing against Flash's hooves.

Flash looked over his shoulder, to see Dust and Night Breeze following him. He turned around, smiling. "You really want to see that ring don't you guys?"

Dust shrugged. "You said come to your room when you're done. So, we're done."

Flash looked at Night Breeze, who simply nodded. He smiled, and beckoned them to follow. "Come on. I'll show you."

The three ponies went back to Flash's room and were told to wait outside as Flash went inside to fetch the ring. The door swung open and Flash looked up and down the hallway, when nopony was there he told his friends to come in.

When Dust and Night Breeze entered, Flash closed and locked his door, then turned to his friends.

"So where is it?" Dust bounced up and down nervously. Night Breeze surprisingly looked just as nervous.

Flash reached into his back pocket and pulled out a sparkling-golden box. Dust and Night Breeze's mouths hit the floor when they saw the box.

With a slight grin, Flash opened the box to reveal a diamond-encrusted ring with stars lining the rim. If one looked closer, you could see that one of the stars that was slightly bigger than the others, was Twilight's cutie mark.

"What do you think?" Flash asked his friends, who were still mesmerized by the ring.

Dust smirked at Flash and huffed a chuckled. "It's amazing? Where did you get it?"

Flash put the ring away. "Oh, why do you care?"

Dust shrugged. "Good point. How much did it cost, looks like at least a grand."

Flash laughed. "It cost enough." He turned to Night Breeze. "You're awfully quiet."

Night Breeze looked at Flash. "What is there to say? It's a fantastic ring, and I'm sure Twilight will love it."

"I hope so." Flash's gaze darkened.

Night Breeze put a hoof on Flash's shoulder. "You've got nothing to be afraid of Flash. You both love each other, it's obvious."

Flash felt himself blush at the comment. He smiled uncontrollably. "Thanks, Night Breeze."

After a curt nod, Dust jumped into the conversation again. "So, when are you gonna propose? Or are you gonna wait for the 'perfect time'?"

Is he mocking me? Flash shook his head. "I think I'll take her to the garden and ask there."

Night Breeze gasped a smile and clapped his hooves together. "That sounds perfect!"

Flash looked at Night Breeze jokingly. "Wow, you got awfully excited quickly."

Night Breeze went back on all fours immediately and cleared his throat. "Well - I, yes. That sounds delightful." He darted his eyes across the room, trying to lose the gazes that made his fur stand on edge.

Dust and Flash exchanged a humorous glance, then focused back on the conversation at hand. "Anyway." Flash continued. "I might go ask her now. Or later."

"Just do it now, get it over with." Dust chuckled at Flash. "You're working up a sweat just talking about it." He laughed as Flash put a hoof to his head, realizing that he was starting to sweat, he quickly shook his hoof dry and gave a stern look at Dust, who returned the look. "What? Just saying Flash. Come on Night Breeze, let's leave Flash in peace." He turned to walk out with Night Breeze tailing him.

Night Breeze stopped and whipped around and ran back to Flash. "He has a point. You should ask her as soon as possible." He whispered in his ear. Flash looked at his friend and nodded, worry striking his eyes.

"Night Breeze, let's go!" Dust called from the hallway. Night Breeze gave a swift nod to Flash and ran out to meet up with his friend. The door slammed shut, leaving Flash in his room with nothing but his thoughts. He sat down on his bed.

What if she says no? What if she isn't ready? Oh, should I ask her now or tomorrow? Flash shook himself and tapped his head a few times. Ugh, come on. You're Flash Sentry, Captain of the Royal Guard! You're not afraid of anything! Flash inhaled and puffed out his chest and smiled.

Flash walked over to the mirror and immediately exhaled when he noticed how stupid he looked. His cheeks turned red as he went over to his bedside table where he left the ring inside it's box.

The ring was still beautifully polished, Flash didn't want to get any marks on it. He placed the ring carefully into the box and placed it into his back pocket and headed out the door.

Several hallways and turns later, Flash found himself at his office in the Royal Guard Headquarters. He shot a quick "Hello." to Moonshine, who was behind her desk as usual, then Flash was behind his own desk in his office.

Time wasn't of concern to Flash. He would propose eventually, at least he hoped. Flash couldn't help but feel a slight bit of anxiety
coursing through him, the wave of emotion forced Flash to shiver a little.

Flash noticed a muffin on his desk with a note attached that said, "Enjoy." sitting on his desk and smiled.

Hm, that's nice of somepony. Flash shifted through his desk papers, and he was interrupted by a small sound coming from the door. When he looked over, it was the daily newspaper. Why did Moonshine give me the newspaper? I told her I don't read them.

He stood up and walked over, picked up the paper and carried it back to his desk. When he sat down he took a bite of a piece of his muffin. When he read the headline he spit out his muffin on the floor and rubbed his eyes then stared at the newspaper to make sure he wasn't hallucinating.

Flash wasn't hallucinating unfortunately. He sat back and stared at the newspaper's headline, PRINCESS AND CAPTAIN IN LOVE! Flash sighed and leaned his head on his hooves, which were propped up on the desk. What am I suppose to do now? I really can't deny it since I'm going to propose to her soon.

The two "lovers" have been seeing each other in public and showing signs of affection to each other. I guess ponies would catch on eventually.

Flash shook himself from his thought and turned his head and looked at the now soggy muffin bits on the ground. He sighed, and and picked up the bits, almost gagging at the smell and feel of the soggy bread. He quickly flung the bits at the trash can, but when they missed on bounced back onto the floor, he grunted and slumped over and picked the pieces up and threw them into the trash, then walked back over to his desk and sat down.

He took a few more bites out of his muffin as he continued to read the newspaper, mumbling under his breath about some of the comments he saw.

A knock came from the door that took Flash's eyes off the newspaper. "Come in." He called.

Moonshine stepped into the poked her head into the room. "Sir. Night Breeze is here for you."

"Bring him in." Flash told her. Moonshine nodded and closed the door. It reopened a few seconds later with the purple pony with dark-blue eyes entering. "Hello Night Breeze, what can I do for you?" He folded the newspaper and put it on the desk.

Night Breeze narrowed his eyes at Flash. "Since when do you read the newspaper Flash?" He smirked. "Doesn't matter. I suppose you've heard all the rumors about you and the Princess."

Flash tapped the newspaper. "I was just reading it."

"I see." Night Breeze nodded. "You going to do anything about it?"

Flash shrugged. "I think I might talk to Twilight about it. I don't know."

"So you're going to let the press run wild? Not the smartest idea." Night Breeze put in.

Flash shook his head. "I never said I was letting them run wild did I? I might go out to the Canterlot public park later, I'm bound to get questioned."

Night Breeze gave a swift nod. "I see. Well, best of luck to you." He waved as he left Flash's office.

Once alone, Flash got up and walked over to the window. He stared out at the magnificent city of Canterlot. Sure is beautiful. He sighed once more. I'll go talk to Twilight.

Flash pivoted on his hooves on walked out the door. Moonshine didn't look up from her papers when Flash looked at her. Is she smirking at me? If so she's doing a terrible job of hiding. Flash noticed when looking at his deskmare. I'm just getting anxious I guess.

The usual walk to Twilight's room was longer than usual. Every time Flash passed a guard or random pony, they always looked back at him, then quickly looking away when Flash looked at them. Their stares burning through his fur. Flash felt uneasy, like somepony was going to ambush him.

Flash finally made it to Twilight's bed chamber and he stepped up to her door. He breathed out and lifted a hoof and knocked on the door softly.

A voice called from within. "Come in!" Slowly, Flash opened the door and stepped in, closing the door behind him. Flash glanced around to the room, when he saw Twilight at her desk levitating a pencil over a piece of paper. She must be writing a letter to Princess Celestia.

Twilight didn't look from her paper. "Spike, I can't talk right now. I need to finish this assignment for Princess Celestia." She almost snapped in frustration. Spike had come to the castle to live with Twilight a few weeks ago, which wasn't all bad.

Flash put a smile on his face, partially from the humor of Twilight not knowing who exactly was there. "Well I don't think Spike would appreciate that tone of voice." He chuckled.

Twilight whipped around in her chair as she dropped her pencil on the floor and her cheeks flushed with red. "Oh! I'm so sorry Flash! I didn't know it was you." Her hooves rose to her cheeks as she blushed with embarrassment.

Flash chuckled a little more. "I could tell. What's the problem?" He walked over to Twilight, who was still holding her hooves up. Flash's smiled faded when he saw her messy mane and dark circles under her eyes.

"Oh, nothing. Just a little hard work. I was up all night." She told him. "I'm fine."

Flash shook his head. "You can't stay up all night Twilight. I know your work is important to you, but you need to sleep. Look at you. You're a mess." Flash put a hoof on Twilight's mane and began straightening it out. Twilight sat patiently while Flash tended to her mane.

Twilight let out a small grunt. "You don't have to do this Flash."

"Oh, quiet you." Twilight sighed and let Flash continue on.

When he finished he returned to all fours and stared at Twilight. "Promise me you'll get some more sleep?"

Twilight returned his gaze. "Promise." The two smiled at each other gently.

When the two finished their daze into each other's eyes, Flash prompted the conversation again. "Did you read the newspaper?"

Twilight shook her head. "No. Why?" Her gaze darkened. "What is it Flash?"

"The better question would be - 'What's going to happen?" Flash commented. "It's about us."

Twilight's cheek turned red again. "W-What do you mean, about us?" Fear struck her amethyst eyes.

Flash place his hoof into Twilight's hoof gently. "Rumors are spreading about, uh, you and me."

Twilight's eyes went wide with shock. "Flash. Where are these rumors going?"

"It's nothing crazy. Just a little thing with the two of use, er." Flash paused, his cheeks hinting red with embarrassment. "Being in love."

Twilight stared at the ground as she fumbled to find words. "Flash. I - I." She stopped mid sentence.

Flash place a hoof on her chin as lifted her head up, making her look at Flash in the eyes. "Shhh. Twilight, will you come walk with me?" Twilight stared at Flash as she slowly nodded.

Twilight stood up and the two left the room and headed down the hallways. Guards giving them the usual snicker or grin. Twilight leaned over to Flash. "What's with them?" She whispered to him.

"They all know the rumor about you and me." He responded. Twilight nodded her understanding.

The two ponies walked through the Canterlot Castle until they reacted the destination Flash had gone to. The Canterlot Castle Garden. The two went up to the railing and looked down at the ponies below on the streets of the thriving city.

Twilight was the first to get off the rail ad stare at Flash. "This is nice and all, but why did you bring me here?" She asked him.

Flash sighed and got off the rail. He stared at Twilight, he opened his mouth, but his brain fought for the right words. "Twilight, I -" He was cut off by a forehoof to the mouth.

Twilight simply smiled and took her hoof off Flash's muzzle. "Flash. Don't stutter. That will make it only more awkward. What is it?"

Flash sighed. Here goes nothing. He thought to himself as lowered him self to one knee and looked up at Twilight, who's mouth dropped in shock and cheeks turned red.

"Twilight. I love you with all my heart, I want to be with you forever. So -" Flash felt his cheeks burn crimson as he took out the case from his back pocket and opened it, revealing the perfect ring inside. "Will you marry me, Princess Twilight Sparkle?"

Twilight's jaw remained open in awe. The corner of her mouth began to turn up, forming a large smile. She jumped into Flash's hooves. "Yes! Yes yes yes! Flash I will marry you! I love you too!" She cried.

The two exchanged a long hug then extended from each other, but only where Twilight hooves were on Flash's neck and Flash's hooves on Twilight's hips. The couple closed the distance and sealed a kiss they would never forget.

Flash took the ring out of the box and placed it on Twilight's horn. She stared up at the ring before returning her gaze to Flash, smiling once again uncontrollably, she fell into Flash's arms, exchanging another long kiss as lips and tongue intertwined between the couple.

After they released each other from lack of oxygen, Flash stood up, holding out a hoof to Twilight, she took it and stood up. "Maybe I should take the rest of the day off." Flash joked.

Twilight grinned at him. "You better, or you'll hear it from me!"

The two trotted happily back into the castle and past all the guards. Some clapped their hooves together, some even came up to the two and congratulated them. Flash couldn't stop smiling the whole time.

When they reached Twilight's room again, they entered and Twilight flopped onto the bed laughing. Flash tilted his head, still smiling, but stared at her with a quizzical look. "What are you doing Twily?" He asked her.

Twilight sat up straight, still giggling a little. "I'm just so happy you finally proposed! The thing is, I kinda liked you when I first saw you." Twilight dropped her gaze, but kept the smile.

Flash sat down on the bed next to her. "Well that's sweet. I guess I could say the same about you." He put in.

"You guess?" Twilight gave Flash a devilish look. "I'm pretty certain you loved me when you first saw me."

Blood rushed to Flash's cheeks, turning a crimson red in embarrassment. "Um. Well I -" He stopped to think, then returned his gaze.

Flash felt a hoof fall gently over his muzzle, silencing him. Twilight was staring at him. "You don't have to speak. I know."

A small smile crept onto Flash's face as Twilight removed her hoof from his muzzle. The two leaned into each other and softly kissed once again. After a few moments they separated and hugged each other, then sat staring at each other, love locking their gazes at each other.

Knocking at the door interrupted the two from their gaze and both turned their head quickly to the direction of the sound. Twilight stood up and walked over to the door calmly.

Twilight opened the door just a little to peek out to see who it was. A sand-colored stallion with a brown mane stood in the doorway.

The stallion bowed, a tradition whenever you are addressing or being addressed by a royal. Even when one is walking by, it is proper to bow to them. Twilight stared at the stallion. "Can I help you?"

"I'm sorry to bother you Princess Twilight." The stallion stood up slowly. "I am Dust Storm. I was looking for Captain Flash Sentry. I can't seem to find him anywhere. Perhaps you would know?" Twilight gazed at him as Dust Storm's eyes traveled up Twilight's head to her horn, and saw the ring. He sighed. "I see. Is he in there?"

Twilight's blushed as she looked away from Dust. "One second please." She said as she slammed the door closed in Dust's muzzle, who stepped back from the door as it slammed closed.

"Flash. There is a pony named Dust Storm out there asking for you." Twilight whispered to Flash, who was still sitting on the bed where Twilight had left him.

Flash stood up and walked over to her. He brushed her mane with a hoof. "I'll go talk to him. I'll be back." Twilight nodded and Flash walked over to the door.

A nervous chill ran through Flash's body. Man, this going to be awkward coming out of Twilight's chambers. He took a deep breath and opened the door, seeing that Dust was still there as he swiveled around on his hooves to face him.

Dust gracefully bowed to Flash. "Captain. I need to talk to you." He told him as he bowed.

Flash was taken back by Dust's action. Why is he bowing to me? He never does that. "What's going on?" He asked Dust as he rose to his hooves.

"Well," Dust started. "first off, congratulations." Flash smiled and nodded a thanks. "Secondly, I believe this is a conversation for -" Dust leaned in closer. "Certain ears only, sir. It's sensitive information."

Flash's eyes widened as he saw the half worried, and extreme seriousness on Dust's face. He nodded, and turned back to Twilight. "I'll be back soon. I promise." Twilight nodded, and Flash turned and ran off with Dust to Flash's office in the Royal Guard Headquarters.

The two strolled into Flash's office and Flash sat behind his desk, Dust in front. Flash casually placed his hooves on the desk and looked at his friend. "Alright Dust. What is so important that not even a princess can hear it?"

Dust cleared his throat and leaned in. "Have you ever heard of the Shadowbolts?

He knew the name. The Shadowbolts were known for trying to overthrow the Wonderbolts ever since they were first formed. In an all out effort, the Wonderbolts pushed the remaining fliers out of Equestria, with Princess Celestia and Luna's banishment for endangering Equestria's security. They haven't been heard from since, but that was long ago.

Flash leaned forward in his chair. "What about the Shadowbolts?" Why would they be of concern?

"I've been hearing some guards talking about them being double agents inside Equestrian guard units and Wonderbolt flights and leaking information to the changelings. For an invasion of Equestria." Dust's words rang through Flash's head.

Flash stuck up like a twig, his eyes going wide and his jaw dropped. "Do you know from what side of Equestria?" He asked, fear hinting his voice.

Dust shook his head. "No unfortunately. I would assume the North-Eastern side if anything though."

Flash nodded, he was right. The Shadowbolts had been chased out the eastern side of Equestria. Beyond the great country was the Frozen North. A great arctic wasteland to the north-east, bordering the Crystal Empire and full of large mountains. To the east was the Gryphon Kingdoms, who for the most part, don't have a great relationship with the ponies. To the west, was the Kingdom of the Changelings, ruled by Queen Chrysalis, who are an enemy of Equestria ever since their attack on Canterlot.

"Would they go to Chrysalis instead of the Gryphons?" Flash asked. "Since, Gryphons hate us, and also I think the Changelings would be more willing to accept them since they are both enemies."

Dust tapped his chin with a hoof. "You make a good point."

Flash shook his head disappointed. "There is nothing we can do right now. Only time will tell what happens. Thank you for alerting me Dust. Dismissed."

Dust nodded as he stood up and walked out. Flash stood up and walked out after him. He stood in front of Moonshine, who looked up at him. "Something wrong Captain Sentry?" She asked him.

Flash didn't look at her. "Send a runner to see when Princess Celestia and Luna is available for an urgent meeting."

Moonshine stood up quickly, realizing the mixture of fear and anger in Flash's voice. She saluted, "Right away sir." and stormed off to send the message.

Flash walked out of the Headquarters and stood in the hallway. What am I going to do? Should I tell Twilight? He yawned. He was exhausted after today. He drifted his gaze over to the Canterlot Clocktower. The beautiful gold-plated pillar told him it was 8:03 PM. The day had gone by faster than it seemed, or maybe Flash just overslept, which is very much possible.

Hooves sounded as Flash turned his head to see a pony coming out of the Headquarters, he gave Flash a quick glance then quickly galloped out of sight. That must be the messenger. Good.

Flash then began trotting down the hallway back towards Twilight's chamber again. When he arrived, he knocked softly on the door.

When nothing responded, he knocked again...Again, nothing. Flash knocked once more...

No response. Flash looked around him, when he saw he was alone in the hallway, he creaked open the door. When he didn't see Twilight, he took a step inside and closed the door behind him.

Flash glanced around the room until his eyes settled on Twilight's bed. He grew a large smile when he saw Twilight sleeping peacefully. He slowly stalked over to her bedside, trying not to wake her.

When he reached her side he seemed to loom over the sleeping body of his love. Flash leaned in and gave Twilight a gent kiss on the cheek then began to stalk away, only to be stopped when he heard rustling behind him.

A yawn came from behind him, then words. "F-Flash?" Buck. "What are you doing here?" Flash turned around, Twilight was sitting up and rubbing her eyes.

"Well, I said I'd be right back. I was just coming to say goodnight, since I was going to bed as well." Flash confessed as he walked back over to her bedside.

Twilight gave a small smile. "That's very kind of you Flash." When they were within hoof-length, Twilight reached out and hugged Flash, who was surprised by the sudden act of romance. Unsure of what to do, he hugged her back.

Flash gently pushed off of Twilight slowly. She teetered as she sat on the bed from her exhaustion. Flash noticed this as he spoke to her again. "Why don't you get some sleep. I'm need mine too." He told her as he began to walk away.

"Why don't you sleep here tonight?"

Flash stopped in his tracks cold. WHAT?! He whipped around, took a deep breath and responded calmly. "Sorry Twily, I can't. I have somewhere to be tomorrow. I'll sit with you until you go to sleep if you want." He offered. Even if I didn't have something planned tomorrow, I don't think I'm quite ready to sleep in the same bed with her. Yet.

Twilight gave a soft smile. "Sure. Thanks." She laid back down and half-covered herself with the blanket. Flash came around next to her and sat down on the edge of the bed and wrapped his wing around her body. Twilight snuggled closer to Flash, making him blush, but he didn't move. Instead, he smiled some more.

Flash bent down and rested muzzle on Twilight's shoulder. "Goodnight, Twilight." He whispered in her ear as he felt Twilight drift off to sleep as her breathing slowed. He swiftly kissed her again on the cheek and sat back up, keeping his wing on her.

A few minutes passed, Flash yawned as he got up from Twilight's bed and walked out of the room, smiling as he looked back at Twilight's sleep body. Beautiful as always. He thought.

Flash walked down the hallways to his own room, when he arrived, he slugged in and flopped onto the bed as usual. He curled up on top of the blankets, overtaken by the thoughts of the day.

Overtaken by exhaustion and thoughts of Twilight, he gave way to sleep clawing at him, his eyes closed, giving way to blackness.

Author's Notes:

Also, if you are confused about any of the events in this story regarding the proposal, please refer back to Chapter 9: Fight or Flight, because I did edit a little at the end of it. If you still don't understand it after re-reading Chapter 9, re-read it again until you understand, I don't know what else to tell you. :D

Chapter 10: Hearts and Hooves Day - Part I

Beep beep beep

Flash groaned and lifted the blanket to it covered his head.

Beep beep beep The alarm clock continued to ring.

The blankets flew off Flash bed as he laid there with a disgusted look on his face as his eyes shot open.

Shutup already! Flash thought angrily. He turned over and slammed a hoof onto the alarm, silencing the annoying rings.

Flash crawled out of bed onto the floor. He sat up slowly and looked at the clock, then swept his head over to the calender. February 14th. Is today a special day? Oh!

That's when it hit him. Flash had set his alarm early so he could go get flowers for Twilight. Today was Hearts and Hooves day, and he'd wanted to do something special for his new wife.

It had been 3 days since Flash proposed to the Princess, and the news was spreading like wildfire, since Twilight literally wore the ring on her horn everywhere she went.

Flash looked at the clock again. 8:32 AM. He got up quickly and rushed over to his wardrobe. He pulled out his polished purple Captains' armor and tossed it onto the bed, along with his helmet and boots.

Once he got all his gear, he walked over to the mirror with his gear and piled it onto the floor. He began sliding into his chest piece. A tight fit made it a little hard for Flash to slip into the armor, but he got it eventually.

After the slight struggle of getting into his chest plate, he hopped into his hoof armor. He inspected the shining purple-golden boots with an approving smile. Flash looked at his helmet, still sitting on his bed. I don't really need my helmet.

Flash left his helmet on the bed and grabbed his saddle bags as he walked out and into the hallways. He trotted down into the main corridor and up to the main gates. He stood before the massive doors and two Royal Guards standing at attention.

As Flash walked up to the door the two guards pivoted and faced him, then brought their right hooves up in a salute. Flash saluted them back, and the guards opened the gate after they lowered their hooves.

The morning streets of Canterlot bustled with life as usual. Ponies turned and looked when the doors of the castle opened. When they saw the Captain walking out. Some of them continued walking, others came to greet Flash.

"Morning, Captain Sentry!" They called to him.

Flash waved and said "Hello." to the ponies as he passed them by on his route to the flower shop.

The door swung open and Flash entered the shop. The scent of hundreds of flowers hit Flash like a punch, making him take a step back before going in.

He was greeted by a mare behind a counter. "Good morning Captain Sentry." She bowed her head. "Fancy some flowers?"

Flash looked around at all the different types of flower. Wow, there is a lot of plants in here. "Um, yeah."

"For a special somepony I assume this Hearts and Hooves day?" The mare asked him as she walked over to him. Flash gave a swift nod.

Flash surveyed the flowers in the shop, looking through each and every one carefully, with the mare's assistance. "If you don't mind me asking, what is you're fillyfriend's favorite color?"

This stopped Flash. He stares at the floor as he tapped his chin with a hoof. He honestly didn't know her favorite color, so he thought of the closest thing. "Purple." He told the mare.

The mare clapped her hooves together at Flash's answer. "What a romantic color! It's also luxurious. Follow me, the purple flowers are over here."

Flash followed the mare to a different section of the nursery. Flash was astonished by the row of purple flowers that lined the aisle. He walked up to a few and sniffed the bouquets.

When he found one he liked the most, he picked it out and payed for it. The mare waved to him as he left. "Have a good Hearts and Hooves Day, sir!" She called to him. I hope I do.

Flash but the bouquet of flowers into his saddlebags, and continued on to get some sweets him and Twilight could share later.

A chocolate factory & store was just down the street that went by the name of Shoreside Chocolate Factory. Flash trotted over there and walked in cheerfully. "Howdy there! Lookin' mighty fine today this Hearts 'n Hooves day!" A stallion called out as he walked over to Flash. "Need some sweets suh'?" He asked.

Flash nodded. "Sure do. Anything specifically for Hearts and Hooves Day?" He responded.

The stallion nodded. He grabbed a heart-shaped box off the shelf next to him and presented it to Flash. "How's this here?

Flash took the heart-shaped box and inspected it. He opened it and looked inside, seeing that each chocolate was perfected aligned inside it, he smiled and closed the box.

"Reckon ya' like it?" The stallion said, still holding his grin.

Flash nodded, "Sure do, how much is it going to cost?" he asked, still looking at the box.

"Thata' be some 6 bits there suh'." The stallion replied.

Flash rolled his eyes and placed the required money into the stallion's hooves. "Just a quick question."

The stallion turned around when he began to walk away. "Yessum'?"

"That accent." He started. "Are you from the south part of Equestria?" The southern ponies were known to have a destinct accent in their language, sometimes making ponies from the north have a little trouble understanding them.

The stallion nodded. "Thata' be true there suh'. I'd be from Apple Loosa. Mighty fine place if you get the chance to go there." He added.

I've never been to the south. Maybe I should go there sometime. "I've heard of it. Maybe I'll take a trip down there in the future." Flash told him.

"Reckon ya' do. Have a good day now." The stallion told him as he walked away. Even though some ponies in Canterlot could be a little stuck up, Flash liked it here.

Flash walked out of the chocolate store and looked at it when he stepped onto the stone streets. There was no better place to buy
chocolate than from Shoreside, at least Flash didn't know of any better place.

He started trotting down the street, his sattlebags bouncing up and down on his back as he went along. Flash slowed his pace to a walk when he approached the castle walls.

The two regularly posted guards stepped aside and saluted as they opened the gates for Flash. He was a little upset that he was returning to the castle so early, but he knew he had business to take care of.

Flash went up to his room and dropped off his gifts for Twilight. He looked over at his helmet, which was still on bed where he left it. Might as well take it down to the office. Look a little more professional. Flash slid his helmet on over his head and looked in the mirror. After a couple poses he headed out into thr hallways.

Before the first turn Flash peeked the corner. The next hallway showed no signs of life, That's strange, who is suppose to be guarding this hallway? he thought as he crept into the empty hallway. He knew Twilight would be awake by now and he didn't want to run into her until he had his presents with him.

He stalked through the hallway, constantly looking behind him. When he was certain he was alone, he stood up straight and walked normally. Maybe she's in the library. He felt confident with his thought.

Flash walked a few more hallways until he saw the entrance to the HQ. He quickened his pave to a trot until he reached the door. Just as Flash turned the knob on the door, he heard a noise behind, and when he turned around, happily trotting down to him was Twilight.

With a slight grunt, Flash flattened his ears and sulked a little. "Hi Flash!" Twilight called to him. Flash stood up straight and forced himself to smile.

"Hi Twilight." He said, annoyance hinting at his voice.

When she reached him she gave him a quick hug. "Happy Hearts and Hooves Day!"

Flash bowed his head. "Same to you." They stood there awkwardly for a moment, before Flash looked at her again. "Listen, Twily. I need to do something, I'll talk to you later. Ok?"

Twilight dropped her gaze. "Oh. Ok." She sulked.

"Hey." Flash lifted her gaze up with a hoof under her chin. "I'll still be here. I just have to do something for the Royal Guard."

Twilight grew a small smile. "Promise?" She asked, her eyes telling Flash the answer he had to give.

"Promise." He responded, and the two closed in for another hug.

When they separated Flash waved goodbye and headed into the HQ.

Flash sighed when he stepped in, relieved to be alone, except for Moonshine, who was sitting at her desk. He said "Hello" and walked to the back and into his office, behind his desk and sat down.

It wasn't anything special he had come to do, but he noticed several letters laying on his desk. He opened each of them and read them, and was shocked to see that all of those letters were letters of resignation.

Reading through the letters, Flash was stunned as he kept reading the apologies such as -

"Sorry Captain, but I wish to resign from Guard Duty. I have served my time and wish to leave.

and -

"It grieves me to report that after our conflict to save the Princess, I am requesting to be discharged from the Royal Guard. I have served 7 good years on this guard, and wish to resign.

Flash placed the letters on the desk and ran a hoof through his hair. How many guards do we have left? Do we have enough to defend Equestria if an attack comes? He worried.

He stood up and opened his door and called his desk mare, Moonshine. "Yes sir?" She asked when she stood at his doorway.

"I need you to send a messenger." Flash told her. "I want every single guard we have in the Assembly Room at 1300 hours. It is most urgent."

Moonshine stared at him with a somewhat shock expression. "All of them sir?"

Flash nodded. "Every single one of them."

"But, that will-" She tried to reason.

"I know it will leave us defenseless, just do it." He ordered.

With a sigh, Moonshine saluted and walked off. Flash retreated back into his office and sat back at his desk. Hopefully we have enough guards.

Flash sighed, and got up and walked out of his office and the HQ. He sat down outside and took off his helmet. Where is Night Breeze or Dust when I want them the most? He thought as he looked around the corridors. Nothing moves except for a few patrolling guards every so often.

His thoughts were interrupted by his stomach, which growled at him hungrily. Maybe eating some food will get this off my mind. For the time being at least. He thought as he put his helmet back on and trotted down to the mess hall.

When Flash entered the Mess Hall, it was mostly deserted, except for a few ponies and the guards. Where is everypony. This is just getting really creepy.

Flash got his food and slowly ate it by himself. When he finished he stood up, threw his garbage out and headed back out into the corridors of the castle and began to walk back to his room.

While on his way there, he stopped and looked at the Canterlot Clocktower, which told him it was 9:48 AM. A lot of time had passed, and Flash didn't have time to linger, so he continued on back to his room.

When he made it to his room, he quickly went in and grabbed his presents for Twilight. Better now than never.

He walked out of his room and when he closed the door, Flash perked up from a voice behind him. "Hm, I wonder where you're taking those to." Somepony said in a sort of smirk.

Flash spun around to see his friend Dust. "Of course it's you. You're the only one I know who will talk to your Captain that way." He put a grin on his face, signally that his insult was in a playful sense.

Dust got the message. "Well you know me, don't care who I'm talking to, just gotta be sarcastic and rude." He continued as he nudged Flash, making him take a step to the side to keep his balance. "Anyway. Who are those for? What, lemme guess, her Highness?" He taunted.

Flash stood up straight and brought a hoof to his chest as he closed his eyes, showing the up-most pride as he told him the answer. "Yes, these are for Twilight."

Dust's jaw hit the floor. "Really? Wow, moving up in the world aren't we?" He snorted as he closed his mouth.

Flash rolled his eyes. "Dust, you know we are engaged right?"

Once again, Dust's jaw fell open. "When was this?" He exclaimed.

"About three weeks ago, Dust that brings me to ask you, where have you been?" Flash grunted as he face-hoofed himself.

Dust tilted his head at Flash. "Regular guard patrols around Canterlot. That's where I'm assigned." He told him.

Flash nodded slowly, as if trying to make Dust say something else. "That's it. Just patrols?" He sighed. "Alright. Anyway, I'd best be going."

"Mind if I tag along?" Dust asked.

Flash stopped and turned his head. "No, nothing against you, but I'd like to do this alone. Just make sure you're at the HQ Assembly Room by 1300."

Dust nodded. "What for?"

"I'll explain when it's time. Just be there." He told him. Dust nodded again and walked off.

Flash sighed and continued on to his destination. He walked slowly down the hallways into the area where the Royal Bed Chambers were located.

He walked up to Twilight's Chamber doors and lifted a hoof, but stopped before it made contact. What if she doesn't like it? What if she is disappointed in these? He stared down at the flowers he had gotten. Come on Flash. You worry too much. He knocked on the door.

No answer, so he knocked again.

Still no answer, so he took it upon himself and opened the door to peek in. He saw nothing in the dimly lit room as he looked around. There wasn't any trace of the princess. Where is she? He thought for a second. The library!

He trotted down the long halls to the Canterlot Archives. When he got in there the librarian was shuffling with some books when she noticed Flash walk in. "Captain Flash Sentry." She sounded startled. "To who do I owe the honor of your presence?" She asked.

Flash opened his mouth to speak, but the mare cut him off. "Let me guess, Princess Twilight Sparkle? If so she is in History Section. Upstairs and to the left." Flash rolled his eyes and thanked the mare.

He walked upstairs and followed the mares direction as he turned to the left side of the library. When he looked down the last hallway, over by the window, laid Twilight on a pillow by a window, staring into a book.

Flash couldn't help but smile as he silently commended her for her study habits. He began to walk down the hallway and when he neared her, he could hear her talking to herself.

"I just wish Flash would spend more time with me on Hearts and Hooves day." She dropped her gaze. "I can't blame him, being Captain is hard. I just wish he could be here." She was almost sobbing.

Flash saddened his look as he walked up behind her. "Ask, and you shall receive." He said from behind her.

Twilight whipped her gaze around until her eyes met Flash's. "Flash!" She was obviously startled by his appearance. "I-But-Did you hear that?" Her eyes heavy with a mixture of worry and shock.

Flash nodded slowly. "All of it, and here I am." He held the flowers up to her. "I thought I should spend some more time with you this Hearts and Hooves day. I think the Royal Guard will be fine." He smiled at her.

Twilight's mouth fell open in shock, her eyes wide in surprise. She leaped into Flash's hooves, wrapping her own around him. Flash stumbled back from the force Twilight hit him with. "Whoa, easy there Twi."

She stepped back. "Sorry! I just wasn't expecting any presents." She took the flowers into her hooves and sniffed them. "These are beautiful!" She leaned in and kissed Flash full on the lips.

Flash leaned back as his cheeks turned bright red. "I-Uh, have something else for you." He held up the chocolates to her, uncontrollably smiling.

Twilight gasped and put the flowers down on the pillow now behind her. She took the chocolates and opened them. "Flash, you didn't have to do this?"

"But I did. So why complain." He grinned at her.

Twilight chuckled as she put the chocolates down. "Well, thank you for the presents Flashy." She said as she hugged him again.

Flash looked into her eyes, the sparkling amythest in her eyes left Flash in a daze "Love you, Twily."

"Love you too." She responded, and the two closed in once more for a soft, long kiss.

After a few moments, the two separated and Twilight went back to her pillow and laid down. Flash sat down next to her and wrapped his wing over her body, pulling her closer to him.

Twilight levitated the book in front of her and began reading again. Flash leaned his head on her shoulder. "Watcha' reading?" He asked, his voice so soft, it was soothing.

"The History of the Wonderbolts. I mostly know it, I'm just reading up on some finer points." She explained, and Flash nodded, showing that he understood.

Hooves running on tile floors sounded from behind them. "Captain Flash Sentry!" Flash turned his head to see his purple-furred friend Night Breeze running towards him. Twilight looked at him, her eyes telling him everything he need to know, 'Don't go.'

"What is it Night Breeze?" He asked him when he got closer.

Night Breeze skidded to a halt and bowed. "I'm sorry to interrupt your afternoon, but I need you right now sir."

Flash went to stand up, but Twilight collapsed his hoof so he fell back down. He looked at her. "I'm just going to ask him what is going on." He assured her, and stood up and walked over to Night Breeze. "This better be worth it." He told him.

"Sorry Flash." He apologized. "But you have a message from Prince Shining Armor." He told him as he pulled out a letter and handed it to Flash.

With a sigh Flash began to the read the letter silently-

Dear Captain Flash Sentry,

It is most troubling to report that the level of Crystal Guards is dwindling in the Crystal Empire. I request that you send as many guards as you can spare to the empire as soon as possible. To add to injury, we have been receiving threats from outside the Crystal Empire boarders, which is why I'm requesting more guardponies. An immediate response to this letter is needed.

Prince Shining Armor

Flash looked up from the letter and at Night Breeze, who's face was racked with worry. "I'll take care of this. Go get me a pen and paper from my office." He looked back a Twilight, who was reading her book. "I have to stay here."

Night Breeze nodded. "Right away." With that he stormed out of the library. Flash walked back over to Twilight and laid down next to her and wrapped his wing over her again. He stared out of the window into the horizon.

Twilight looked at Flash, and as she stared at him her look saddened. "What's wrong Flash?"

Flash sighed, and looked at Twilight, then looked back out the window. "The Crystal Empire's been receiving threats from outside the country." He looked back to her. "Your brother asked for more guards since his guard count is running thin, but he doesn't know that several of our guards just retired, and we only have so few officers."

"What are you going to do? Will Shining Armor and Princess Cadance be alright?" She asked wordily.

Flash stared at her. He didn't have an answer for her, but he had to say something. He nuzzled his muzzle into her cheek. "I promise they'll be fine." He looked at her, and she nodded, and went back to her book.

About a half an hour passed as the couple sat next to each other until the sound of gold-plated boots clicked on tile floors behind Flash and Twilight again. When they looked behind them, Night Breeze was trotting towards Flash with a pen and paper in his mouth.

Night Breeze ran over to Flash and Twilight and put down the pen and paper in front of Flash. "Here." He panted, obviously exhausted.

Flash nodded as he took the pen. "Thank you, Night Breeze." With a nod, Night Breeze took off out of sight. Twilight leaned over closer to Flash.

"Since when do you write letters?" She teased.

Flash stared at her with a face of boredom. "Since I was a foal in school, and also when I need to send a reply to your brother who is thousands of miles away."

Twilight's eyes seemed to sparkle. "Your sending a letter to Shining?" When Flash nodded, she gasped with a smile. "Tell him I said hi!"

"Will do." Flash chuckled. He leaned down and started writing his letter-

Dear Prince Shining Armor,

I understand the necessity for more guards, but you must understand that I am also running low on guardponies here in Canterlot. I plan to bring in all ponies that have enlisted into recruit training in a few weeks. I will send you the guards I can spare, but keep in mind that it will not be a lot. Also I will send you another letter in regards to the threats of the Crystal Empire.

Captain Flash Sentry

P.S. Twilight says Hi.

Flash folded up the letter neatly and set it aside. He looked over at Twilight, who was munching quietly on some of of the chocolates he had given her. She scrunched her face, as if in deep thought. Flash couldn't help but grin at the face she had made.

Flash stood up and stretched until his forehooves shook and sat down again. He was startled by a piece of chocolate being shoved in front of his face. When he looked over, Twilight was holding up a piece. "Whunt onf-" She spoke through a mouth full of chocolate.

"Sure." He laughed as he took the piece and popped it into his mouth. Flash savored the soft caramel core under the smooth milk chocolate coating. "Mmm. That's good." He complimented.

Twilight nodded. "Shure-" She swallowed the last bit of chocolate in her mouth, and finished her sentence. "Sure is. Where did you get it?" She asked.

Flash made a directional gesture with his left hoof. "Shoreside Chocolate Factory. A few blocks south of the castle." He told her. "Best tasting chocolates in Equestria in my opinion."

Twilight giggled and Flash shot a glance at her. "What's so funny?"

"Nothing." She calmed him. "Just back in Ponyville there was a place called Sugarcube Corner, I think those are the best sweets in Equestria."

Well I guess I have to go there some day. Flash thought to himself. "Maybe we should take a trip down there some time?" He suggestion to Twilight.

She gasped in shock. "That would be wonderful! It gets lonely around here, and I would love to see my friends again!"

Flash nodded. "It'd be good to meet them finally." He had only heard stories of Twilight's friends and how they possessed the Elements of Harmony, which Flash didn't know much about. "When should we go." He refocused back on Twilight.

"I don't know. Aren't you always busy?" She ask him.

Flash shook his head. "Not always. I can take a day off to go with you."

"Ok." Twilight tapped her chin with a hoof. "How is tomorrow?"

"That's fine." Flash nodded. "Can't wait."

Twilight closed her book and snuggled closer to Flash. "Me neither." She sighed and closed her eyes.

Flash dared at the princess. "You should really sleep more." He told her.

She yawned. "Same to you." She responded drowsily.

Twilight yawned once more before passing asleep on Flash's right hoof. Flash looked over to the clock on the wall, when it said 11:34, Flash's eyes went wide. The meeting! I've still got an hour, it's ok. He stared at the now sleeping Twilight. She really needs to stop staying up a night with her books.

Flash bent over and kissed Twilight on her head, and in response she shuffled a little, but remained asleep. Flash pulled her a little closer with his wing which was still covering her back.

The two laid side by side for the next hour, wrapped in each other's love. When the clock stroked the 12:30 mark, Flash gave Twilight another kiss on the head, and slowly stood up, grabbed his letter and left the room.

Flash began his lengthy walk down the long corridors to the Guards' HQ. Since it was on the other side of the castle, it took Flash a little longer than usual than what he was accustomed to.

He finally arrived, and just in time because the clock struck 12:50 when he walked into the HQ. "They are waiting for you in the Assembly Room sir." Moonshine told him as he walked in.

Flash nodded, and headed into the assembly room where all of his guards were chatting among themselves. "Attention on deck!" Somepony shouted out when Flash walked up onto the stage. The room fell into deep silence.

Flash ran his eyes across the room. Wow, is this really everyone? The room wasn't full, in fact, it was far from it. Flash maintained his look. "All ponies with an officer rank raise a hoof." He ordered.

To his surprise, only about 20 ponies raised their hoof. Flash felt his bottom jaw hit the floor, he quickly closed it and cleared his throat. "Stack up on the right side of the room, everypony else to the left side."

The guards started filing out on each side of the room. After they were finished Flash spoke again. "Alright, now if you see the desks in front of your rank sections." He pointed to the desks on either side of the room. "I want all of you to form a single file line the best you can and fill out your names on the roster."

Guards exchanged quizzical looks before slowly shuffling into a line and slowly but surely began moved forward and signed the roster and went to the back of the room. The officers finished signing long before the regulars finishing, since officers were outnumbered about 3 to 1. We really need more officers, maybe I should hold some promotions. Flash thought quietly. His gaze rested upon Dust Storm and Night Breeze, on the non-officer side of the room. They aren't officers? Hm. They should get a promotion for all they did on the Red Fang operation.

When the roster was filled and everypony finished signing there name, Flash went and collected the roster. He quickly skimmed through the names and when he finished he looked up at all the guards. "Alright. I just needed a head count to make sure we are good on guards. Dismissed."

The guards started filing out of the room slowly. A certain pony caught Flash's eye, and he could tell by a golen star (that looked more like a clover than a star) on each of his shoulder armor that he was an officer, specifically a Commander. He recognized the stallion from a long time ago too. "Lieutenant Commander Silvershot!" He called him. Silvershot had been in the Royal Guard a little bit shorter than Flash, but was the most senior, and high ranking guard, as a Lieutenant Commander.

"Yes sir?" Silvershot asked as he walked up to Flash. "What can I do for you?"

Flash eyed the red stars on his armor. "Lieutenant Commander, right?"

Silvershot nodded. "Yes sir."

"You know you're the highest ranking guard in the entire Equestrian Royal Guard right?" Flash told him.

Once again, Silvershot nodded. "Yes, sir. I know sir."

Flash put a hoof on one of his shoulder pads. "It's a sign of trust, and loyalty, to the guard. A pony I can talk to when no other guard should hear."

Silvershot tilted his head. "What are your asking of me sir?"

"Nothing specifically." Flash said. "Have you noticed how little guards there are in the Equestrian Royal Guard?"

Silvershot shook his head. "Sorry sir. I haven't. Why? Are we lacking?" He asked.

Flash nodded. "Yes we are, and in great numbers."

Silvershot stood straight. "What do you need me to do?"

Flash grew a grin and began walking back and forth in front of Silvershot, who remained standing at attention. "Recruits are being brought in. A lot of them. I want you to train them as the most senior officer. Show 'em how an experienced guard works."

While he was talking, Flash noticed a slight grin go on Silvershot's muzzle. "You will train them properly so they are fit to be in the Equestrian Royal Guard. Discard all others, accept only those who you see fit." He stopped and faced Silvershot. "Are you clear on your task?"

"Yes sir!" Silvershot said, confidence unleashed in his shout.

Flash nodded. "If you need any assistance, I'll come down and help you. I'll visit every so often anyway to check up on process. You are dismissed Commander."

Silvershot saluted and trotted out of the assembly room. Flash followed him but went straight into his office. He laid the roster down on his desk and picked up a stack of letters. He grunted as he began opening and reading every single letter. Worst part about new recruits is reading their physicals to make sure they are in a healthy condition.

At least an hour passed and Flash felt exhausted, but when he looked over he only saw that he had only finished about half of the pile of letters addressed to him. He finished up the letter he was currently reviewing, stamped the "ACCEPTED" stamp onto it and set it into a bin labeled "Accepted" then turned his attention to the roster he had just collected from his current guards.

Flash read through the list of regular guards. Mumbling to himself on which ones should be officers. Flash knew that promoting a guard to officer was treading in dangerous waters. Becoming an Lieutenant was hard enough, but it was an honorable title. It gave more pay, and command over squads of guards. It also told the Captain that he could trust you in a time of need. Guards aren't even able to be promoted to an officer rank without a blue star, commending more than 5 years in active duty.

Getting to Commander is extremely rare, and has only happened a number of times in Equestrian Royal Guard history. It was the highest a guard could get to without being the Captain of the Royal Guard, guards were not able to achieve this rank without a Silver Star medal.

A bang at the door shook Flash from his thoughts. "Come in." He called.

Flash was startled when Twilight burst through the door and walked up to Flash. "I-Uh. Hi - Twilight." He stuttered, looking for words to say.

"Why did you leave me without saying goodbye?" Twilight asked. "I thought Hearts and Hooves Day was about spending time with the ponies you loved and cared about. You said you could take a break from guard duty for one day." She sobbed as her eyes grew watery.

Oh Celestia don't start this again. He panicked as he quickly rushed around his desk and hugged Twilight tightly. "No tears Twi. They won't do any good." He wiped a tear off of Twilight's cheek with a hoof. "I'm sorry, but I had a meeting scheduled at 1 o'clock. You were asleep when I left so I kissed you on the forehead and left."

"I didn't feel it. I thought you just left me there." Twilight sniffed as she squeeze Flash tightly. "Sorry Flash. I just wish you would spend a little more time with me today, that's all."

Flash looked back at his desk and the roster and stacks of letters next to it. I got a lot to get done. But I guess I could use a break. He thought as he refocused on Twilight. "Sorry Twilight. I'll spend time with you now. I just have a lot of paperwork to do with new recruits coming in, and the lack of guards available."

Twilight nodded. "Sorry Flash. I didn't know you had such important things to worry about."

You have no idea. Flash thought to himself. "Yeah. But, I could use a break right now. Where do you want to go?"

Twilight held out the now empty case of chocolates. "Well, I really liked those chocolates. Care to show me where you got them?"

They shared a laugh and Flash shook his head. "Oh Twilight. Sure. I'll take you, but no promises that the shop will be open."

"Good enough." Twilight chuckled.

Flash put his helmet on and took the lead as the two headed out of the HQ and weaved the though the Canterlot Castle and out onto the streets of the bustling city. It was crowded with ponies, after all, it was the middle of the day.

Ponies gave an exceptionally uncomfortable stare at Flash and Twilight as they passed through the streets that made the fur on Flash's coat burn.

Flash guided himself and Twilight through the maze of the Canterlot streets, ignoring all the stares as they walked on.

Twilight bumped Flash with a hoof. "Why are you acting so formal? You're not on duty."

"One - it's formality, you're royalty, I'm not. Two - there is a lot of papers going around about - us." He explained.

Twilights cheeks grew red. "Oh." She looked away. "I see."

Flash could see she was uncomfortable with the subject, and smiled a little to lighten the mood.

They came up to the chocolate store and entered. They were greeted by the same pony that Flash had met before.

"Howdy Capt'n!" He hollared whe he saw Flash. The stallion walked over to him and when he saw Flash he quickly bowed. "It's an honor, yer Highness."

Flash looked a Twilight, who seemed unsure of the situation. "So, we decided to stop by to get some more of those sweets we got earlier." Flash cut in, when he looked over to Twilight, she mouthed a "Thank you" to him. He simply nodded in response.

The stallion go up slowly and walked over to the shelf. "Uh, yeah sure. I'll go get them."

While the stallion headed to the back of the large room Flash looked over at Twilight. "You know you could have spoken up."

Twilight dusted the ground with a hoof. "Sorry, I'm just not used to all the formalities of being a princess."

Before Flash could respond, the stallion was back with a box in his mouth. He set it down on the table and looked at Flash. "There ya go."

Flash nodded. "How much will that be?"

The stallion waved a hoof in the air. "No charge. Happy Hearts and Hooves Day." He looked back and forth at Twilight and Flash, obviously thinking they were a couple, which was true, but Twilight got the point the stallion was making, and she instantly blushed and looked away.

"Thank you sir." Flash nodded as he took the box and began to walk out, Twilight tailing him.

The stallion waved them goodbye. "No! Thank you, and have a good day!" He called as the two left.

When the two left the chocolate factory, they were met almost instantly with a quick "Look! The princess!" then a barrage of camera flashes and ponies shouting questions.

Twilight was forced to put a hoof in front of her eyes to protect herself from the flashes, and Flash immediately stepped in front of her. "Everypony back up! No cameras! Let the princess through!" He roared over the crowd.

When the camera flashes continued, Flash quickly grabbed Twilight's hoof and pulled her off to the side.

Flash slammed through the ponies crowding around them, knocking ponies to the ground. He didn't care, as long as he got Twilight out of there. They raced back to the castle as fast as possible, and when they arrived, the guards raced up to Flash when they saw Twilight and his fatigue.

"Sir. Are you alright?" One asked.

Flash shook his head. "No - the press - chasing us." He heaved between breathes. "Lock down the entrance, I don't want anypony at the castle doors unless it's official business. Am I clear?"

The guards nodded raced back to their positions and stood at attention. Flash helped Twilight into the castle and into her room after her long run back to the castle.

Twilight immediately fell onto her bed upon entering her room. Flash chuckled a little. "You should really run some more, you're out of shape." He teased.

She swatted at his nose. "Shush you."

Flash chuckled as he sat down next to Twilight. "I have to go take care of some work." He told her as he leaned over and gave a swift kiss on her cheek. "Ok?"

Twilight nodded slowly. "Alright."

Flash crept out of the room and headed out to the Headquarters in the castle.

When he arrived he simply walked into his office and sat at his desk. He looked at the stack of papers that sat on and next to his desk. He sighed, I don't think I'll ever finish this. he thought.

Flash stood up and looked out the window at the green hills over the horizon and allowed his thoughts to drift to the threat of the changelings he had been told a few days before. I hope everything goes well. Celestia watch over us, and keep the changelings at bay.

He sat down at his desk, looked over at the clock, which read 3:50. There was still some time left in the day, so with a sigh, Flash took off his helmet, ran a hoof through his hair to straighten it out, and began reading and stamping letters again.

Author's Notes:

Wow, just finished this in time. Which is upsetting to me because I've been keeping a week ahead of the new releases, and now that I've fallen back into my original schedule, well you get the point. Anyway, I hope you enjoy my little next chapter in the series, and happy Memorial Day!

Chapter 11: Hearts and Hooves Day - Part II

Flash's hoof cramped after so long of writing and stamping letters. "Gah!" He grunted in agony as he held his hoof.

The stack of completed letters were now on the complete opposite side of the desk. Flash looked over the side to see if anymore were left, and to his surprise, nothing was there but the empty ground. Finally. About time. Anymore writing and my hoof would never be the same.

He looked over at the clock in his office just as it struck the hour of 6. Flash put a hoof to his chin in thought, Should I bring Twilight to dinner? Or, should I wait 'till later. Flash sat for a minute, just staring at the clock ticking along. I'll take her now.

Flash got up and trotted out of the Headquarters, turned down the long hall until he made it to the hallway that housed the Royal Bed Chambers. Flash went up to the first one and knocked on it.

Just as he knocked on the door, Princess Luna came out of her own room and saw Flash, who bowed. "Good morrow, Captain Sentry. What be thou purpose here?" She asked him.

I had heard that Luna spoke in the olden language, but wow. He thought when he spoke as he rose back to his hooves. "I'm going to ask Princess Twilight to dinner, your Highness."

Luna smiled at Flash. "Hm. Doth shall please thy princess. Good light - er, good night Captain." She corrected herself.

Flash bowed his head. "Good night, Princess." He said as Luna swiveled around and left Flash standing alone.

As Luna left him, the door to Twilight's room swung open, and the young princess stood in the doorway. "Hi Flash!" She peeked out and looked in both directions of the hallway. "Who were you talking to?"

"Princess Luna." He leaned in closer. "She really should work on her speech. She is stuck in the past almost." He whispered.

Twilight giggled a little. "I know! I can barely understand her sometimes." She said a little to loudly, and Flash plunged a hoof into her muzzle to quiet her.

"Sh! You don't want her to hear that." He cautioned, and Twilight nodded, so Flash took away his hoof.

Twilight sat back on her haunches. "So Flash. Why are you here?"

Flash sat down as well. "Well I was wondering if you'd like to go to dinner with me." He gulped, sweat beating down on him from nervousness. Oh I hope it's the answer I want.

Twilight blushed and put a hoof over her mouth, as if she was shocked. Oh no. Flash was shaking in his armor, and quite noticeably. Eventually, after what seemed like forever, Twilight lowered her hoof and responded with a simple. "Sure!" She squeaked.

To Flash, this response felt like a 1000 pound burden being lifted off his shoulders. "Good." He breathed. "Go get ready, wear something formal. I'll come back for you in 10 minutes." He told her.

Twilight nodded, and stormed back into her room, slamming the door in Flash's face. "Well that went swell." Flash thought to himself as he went off to his own room in a different part of the castle.

The walk seemed shorter than usual, and Flash was in his room quickly. He leaped out of his boots and loosened the belt holding his backplate and chestplate together, and the armor fell off him and slammed onto the floor. He then took his helmet off and tossed it onto the bed. Flash swung open his closet and pulled out his Royal Guard Uniform, something he hadn't touched in what seemed like ages.

Flash slid into the uniform perfectly, as if he hadn't grown at all. Once into the uniform nicely, he looked down, and saw the blue and silver star medals. The Blue Service Star, standing for more than 5 years in active duty, but that wasn't of Flash's concern. The Distinguished Service Star, was a silver star that stood for honorable and heroic actions in combat. It was the highest medal in the Equestrian Guard, and he had earned in during the Changeling attack on Canterlot.

Flash found himself staring at his medals for a while, his mind racing through memories of the past. Some good times, other haunting him. He shivered, and went over to the mirror to check himself.

As usual, Flash combed his hair back neatly and made a few poses in the mirror until he thought he looked good enough. Flash put on his best smile and decided he was ready, and so he walked out the door to pick up his date.

Flash trotted down the hallway, ponies giving his glances since they have rarely seen him in his uniform since he was Captain, but none of that mattered to Flash. He continued on his way to the Royal Chambers corridor.

When Flash arrived, he walked up to Twilight door, and swiftly knocked on it. "Who is it?" Sounded from inside the room.

Flash sighed and his face lit up. "Guess who." He called inside.

"Come in Flash!" Called back to him. Flash opened the door and looked in the room. In the middle of the large room Twilight stood there, in her full royal gown she had worn the day of her coronation.

Flash's mouth fell to the floor, similar to a star-struck filly. She stood in front of him, her golden hoof-boots had her cutie mark engraved into them, and her white and golden gown sparkling in the sunlight coming through her window. Flash didn't know what to say. "I-You. Wow." He felt dumb.

Twilight blushed at Flash's facial expression. "What do you think? Is it good?" She asked him.

Flash still sat there, dumbstruck. Eventually he shook himself out of his daze and closed his mouth. "Yeah. You - whew - you look fantastic Twilight." He complimented.

"You're too sweet Flash." Twilight giggled as she walked over to him. Flash took her hoof into his and they walked out the door together.

When they stepped out of the room, Flash heard panting behind him. When he turned around, Night Breeze was dashing down the hallway to him. "Captain! Sir!" He called. When he got close, he wheezed when breathing, he had obviously been running for a while. "S-Sir. There - ugh." He got down on one knee and quickly breathed in and out.

"Take a second Night Breeze." Flash let Twilight go and put a hoof on Night Breeze's back. "Speak when you have the breath."

After a few more seconds Night Breeze coughed, and stood back up. "Sorry sir. Er - Your Highness." He bowed at Twilight's presence. "Sir. You have a letter in your office, marked urgently."

Flash flattened his ears. You've got to be kidding me. "Can it wait?" He pleaded.

Night Breeze shrugged. "I don't know, I didn't read the letter, it just said urgent on it." He told him.

"Then it can wait 'till later." Flash grunted. He turned back to Twilight. "May we go?" He bowed, signaling her to go first.

Twilight took the lead and Flash stayed back a little, Night Breeze walking next to him. "Get a message to Lieutenant Silvershot. Tell him to send a squad of guards to The Garden House restaurant. I want all round protection for the princess. Got it?"

Night Breeze nodded, and trotted off to find the Lieutenant.Flash galloped to catch up with Twilight, and walked my her side. "What was that about?" She asked him when he caught up to her.

Flash shook his head. "It was nothing. Just want to keep you safe. So I ordered some extra guards to be with us. If you don't mind."

Twilight smiled. "I appreciate it Flash, but I don't think we need guards watching over us. Especially when I have you." She nuzzled his side with her muzzle.

"You're too kind." Flash blushed. "Let's keep going."

The two left the castle and headed down the darkness of the Canterlot street. Streetlights lined the stone paving, lighting the darkness with comforting light.

They continued down a few blocks to the restaurant. When they arrived, Twilight looked puzzled at the restaurant. "Is something wrong?" Flash asked her, noticing her confusion.

"Since when was this restaurant here? I've never seen it before." She told him.

Flash chuckled. "I'm not surprised, it's fairly new."

Twilight looked surprised. "Really? I guess I should get out the streets more often."

Flash leaned in closely. "Between you and me, all the princesses should be out more. Out on more days than just celebratory days." He whispered.

Twilight shrugged, and Flash quickly stepped in front of her and opened the door to the restaurant. "After you princess." He grinned and Twilight blushed as she walked in.

The room was relatively small, with a podium in the middle of it, the stallion behind it was looking down. "How many will it be?" He asked as he looked up. "Oh my - Princess!" He quickly tried to bow in respect, but hit his head on the podium. He shuffled to the left and bowed.

Twilight looked at the stallion. "You may rise, and it's for two." She looked at Flash, who nodded approvingly.

"Y-Yes, Your Highness." The stallion stuttered as he stood up and went behind the podium, got menus and walked over to another door. "Follow me please." He gestured them.

Flash allowed Twilight to go first again, and followed the stallion through the door into a larger room. It had tables in the middle of it and booths running along the side. The lights were dim and in the back was a small orchestra playing soft, slow tunes that made Flash feel relaxed.

When they were seated the stallion handed them the menus and looked at them. "Your waiter will be with you in just a second, I'll go grab one." He said and rushed off.

Twilight put her menu down and looked at Flash, who was too busy staring at pictures of food. She coughed, and Flash lowered the menu. "Yes?" He asked.

She cupped her hooves together as she looked at Flash. "Why did you bring me here?"

Flash set his own menu down and stared at her, puzzled. "Well, I thought we could have a nice slow pace - maybe romantic dinner for Hearts and Hooves Day." He smiled, but on the inside, he was worried.

Twilight simply nodded. "Thank you."

Flash nodded and looked around, and other ponies stared at them, obviously intrigued by a princesses appearance in a public restaurant. Some looked at Flash and waved, Flash waved back, but most eyes were on Twilight.

Twilight reached a hoof across the table and held up Flash's medals as she raised an eyebrow to them. "What medals are these. I don't remember."

Now I wouldn't expect her too. Flash thought. Flash had told her, but long ago back in the days of Captain Jagged Wing. He shivered at the thought. "Um. Well which one do you want to know first?" He asked.

"This one. I've only seen a few with this medal." Twilight held up the silver star. Flash took his medals off his uniform and handed them to Twilight so she could inspect them better.

Flash pointed at the silver star. "This is the Distinguished Service Star. For heroic and honorable actions in battle. It was awarded to me after the Changeling attack on Canterlot." He explained.

Twilight nodded. "I remember."

"It's the highest medal in the Equestrian Royal Guard." He continued. "After the attack I was also promoted to Lieutenant." He told her.

This seemed to peak Twilight's interests, because stopped looking at the medal and raised her gaze to Flash. "You weren't an officer before the attack on Canterlot?"

Flash nodded. "Yeah. I haven't been an officer for a long time."

"How are you the Captain then?" Twilight asked. "I thought one would have to be a highly ranked officer for a certain amount of time before they could qualify for a promotion to Captain."

Flash shrugged. "That's what I thought, I guess things happen for a reason."

Their conversation was interrupted by the waiter coming up to their table. He bowed at Twilight. "Good evening Your Highness." He looked at Flash and bowed his head. "Sir. Can I start you off with some beverages?"

Flash gestured for Twilight to go first, and she faced the waiter. "Can I just have some water?"

The waiter nodded. "Most certainly, and you sir?" He faced Flash.

"Do you have Barehoof Red Wine?" He asked the waiter, who nodded. "I'll have that."

The waiter wrote down the order then looked back at them. "I'll be right back."

Once alone, Flash looked back at Twilight. "So yeah. It's what the guard wanted, if you remember that day." He stared at her blankly.

Twilight nodded, knowing he was referring to the court date that seemed so long ago. The one that would define Flash's future, and against all odds, he was placed in the highest spot in society under the princesses.

"Well I think you're an honorable pony, and I'm extremely happy to have you as the Captain of the Royal Guard." Twilight touched his hoof.

Flash placed his hoof atop Twilight's. "Thank you, that means a lot." He released his grip and sat back. "Anyway, what happened to Celestia? I have seen her in forever."

Twilight shrugged. "I'm not sure, I guess she's been busier than usual. Being princess is hard, especially when you are Princess Celestia."

Flash nodded, and the two sat in silence for a little, their drinks came and were placed in front of them without a word. "Are you ready to order your main dish?"

The wha - oh! Flash had forgotten to even look at the menu for food. He quickly snatched it off the table, skimmed through it, found what he wanted, and put it down. The two ordered and the waiter trotted off with their orders.

The rest of the night continued slowly, over small conversation between the two. At one point Flash looked out the window and saw a squad of guards patrolling the outside. Which Flash enjoyed the sight of, because he did want extreme safety for the amateur princess.

When they cooler, Flash lead the way and walked a little ahead of the princess. Ponies bowed as they passed by, which was the standard whenever you were in the presence a princess. When Flash exited the restaurant, he looked at the guards posted outside, 4 of them in total, and ordered them to form up around him and the princess in a diamond formation.

Twilight soon followed after and was immediately swarmed by ponies, who did a quick bow and began flashing cameras at the princess.

The guards immediately became aggressive and pushed on the gathering ponies. "Get back!" They roared at them. When the ponies didn't, the guards strengthened their line they had formed by point their spears at the ponies. "Get back!" They roared once more, this time the crowd submitting, and began dispersing.

One of the guards walked up to Flash. "Sir. I recommend we get the princess back to the castle. Now." He said to him. Flash nodded in agreement.

"You take the lead, the other three stay behind me and Princess Twilight." He ordered.

The guard nodded, then turned to the guards. "Alright! Let's move out! I've got lead, you three, behind the Princess and the Captain!" He shouted to the others, who formed up behind Flash and Twilight.

They began walking the several blocks back to the castle. On the way back, more ponies began trotting over to the mini convoy and greeting the princess, or to take a picture of her. The guards became aggressive as soon as the ponies came near, pointing their spears at them.

The street ponies quickly backed up, and Twilight stopped and looked at the guards. "Guards! You must not be so extreme when with me. It's not everyday a pony gets to see their princess. Rest your spears." She told them.

Three of the fours raised their eyebrows at the order, but obeyed, the last one however, refused to back down. "I don't think that's a good idea princess." He snorted.

Twilight stared him down. "I'm telling you to stand down! You're scaring these ponies!" Whoa, was that a temper in her voice? Flash thought as he took a small side step away from Twilight.

The guard still refused, and held his ground. Flash took a step up, and spoke out. "Guard! I swear by Celestia if you do not lower your weapon, I will have you NJPed or sent to the brig!" He shouted at him. "So. I'm ordering you. Lower. Your. Weapon." He growled.

After a long stare-down. The guard lowered his weapon, and Flash looked at the other guards. "Take his spear. I don't trust him with it." He ordered, and the three guards quickly snatched the spear from the guard's hoof. "Let's get back to the castle - Sorry everypony!" He called to the crowd of ponies, some of which still scared stiff, staring wide-eyed at the guard who had refused to back down.

The walk back to the castle was almost uncomfortable, as all eyes seemed to be glued to the guard who disobeyed and order from the princess, and as Flash looked to Twilight, it didn't seem she was taking it too well.

When they arrived, Flash sent the guards on their way, and followed Twilight to her room. Flash could tell Twilight was angered by the guard. "Twilight, I'll talk to the guard. It wasn't right what he did." He tried to calm her.

"Of course it's not right!" She yelled at him. Then immediately backed down and put a hoof on her mouth. "I'm sorry Flash. I didn't mean to yell at you." She apologized.

Flash stared at her, his eyes sympathizing. "It's ok Twilight. Anger isn't something you build up inside you, and better me than some other pony." He told her as she flopped onto her bed and buried her head in a pillow. Flash sighed. "Don't pout now. You're still princess, and in way more authority than me. You're on the same level as Princess Celestia, Luna, and Cadence."

Twilight turned over and stared at him. "Then why didn't that guard listen to me?"

Flash softly put a hoof on Twilight's mane and stroked it slowly. "He was just trying to protect you. As I said, I'll talk to him. Although we aren't in the position to lose guards."

This peaked Twilight, and she sat up quickly. "Why? What's going on."

"Are you sure you want to know?" Flash sighed.

Twilight narrowed her eyes. "I'm princess. I have more authority than you, so tell me." She mocked him.

Well I guess I gave her that one to use against me. Flash rolled his eyes. "Fine. Well, the Crystal Empire is getting threats from outside Equestrian boarders, and Prince Shining Armor is requesting that I send more guards to the empire to reinforce it." He explained.

Twilight gasped. "My brother is being threatened? You'll do something right?" Her eyes racked with worry.

Flash sighed. "That's just it. A decent number of guards were part of the Red Fang, so we lost a good portion of our fighting force. We don't have many officers, and too many low-ranks." He continued.

"So why don't you recruit more?" Twilight suggested.

"That's exactly what we are doing. It's not like we have a choice."

"So when are they going to get here?"

"In about two weeks." Flash stared at the clock, which the time 9:27 was on it's face. He looked back at Twilight. "I need to go finish up some guard things. I guess I'll see you tomorrow." He gave her a swift kiss on the cheek and started walking to the door.

"Wait!" Twilight stopped him and Flash whipped around. "We need to plan a wedding date still." She blushed as she spoke.

Flash froze like a statue. Buck. Me. I completely forgot about it. "I'll get on it Twily. No worries!" He assured her before trotting out.

He started down the hallway and to the HQ. Flash was shocked by the low amount of guards patrolling the halls. Every once and a while a guard would say 'hello' to him but kept on walking. They must be asleep. It is nighttime. Luna's guards should be out.

When Flash made it to the HQ, he wasn't surprised when Moonshine wasn't there.

The only sound that could be heard was Flash's hooves hitting the floor as he walked into his office and sat down. He opened up the letter sitting on his desk, it had the Crystal Heart stamp on it, so Flash knew it was probably Shining Armor.

Captain Flash Sentry,

I understand your situation. Send all you can to the Crystal Empire. Also, what other threats should I know about?

Prince Shining Armor

Flash stared at the letter. He flipped it onto his back and saw nothing on the back of the letter. That's it? That has to be the shortest letter ever written.

Flash took out a pen and paper and began writing a response -

Prince Shining Armor,

The threat I told you about is none other than the return of Queen Chrysalis and her changeling army, whom were driven out long ago. I believe that the Crystal Empire will be their first point of attack. We don't know why, but that is what we have. Which is why I will send as many guards as possible to the Empire, along with an officer.

Captain Flash Sentry

Flash folded up the letter and slid it into an envelope then placed it aside. He stared out of his window, the Canterlot lights brightened the night sky. Off in the distance, he could see another town's lights.

He turned around and stared at his desk his mind on Twilight's words. "We need to plan a wedding date soon." Flash sat down and began searching for possible places to hold a wedding. He had work to do, he knew he was going to be up for a long time, maybe into the early morning. Even though he was aware that he was going to Ponyville the next day.

Author's Notes:

For those who don't know, an NJP is a Non-Judicial-Punishment, which means a CO can punish a soldier via pay-grade, reduction in rank, more work, etc. Well, this chapter may have been a little boring, and a quick ending one, but I'll spice it up in the next, maybe. Also, due to school Finals, next weeks episode will be delayed for a couple weeks. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Chapter 12: Parting Ways

Author's Notes:

4 years later....Sorry about the ridiculously long hiatus. Thank you all for being patient with me anyway. I'm not going to bother you guys with excuses as to why it took so long, just I hope you guys enjoy what I've put out.

Flash was sluggish to get out of bed. He had only slept for a few hours before his alarm rang him from his sleep.

"What's a stallion gotta do to get some sleep around here?" He groaned as he slammed a hoof onto the clock and slid out of bet, his eyes still heavy with sleep.

He slumped to his dresser unwillingly, slid into his beautiful scarlet dress uniform, appropriate for the Captain of the Royal Guard, and walked over to the mirror to inspect his half-asleep self.

As like every morning, he looked ragged, with fur sticking up and his mane in a giant mess. Flash grabbed a comb and began gently combing out his mane with a few Ows' when he hit a knot of tangled hair.

When he finished, he slowly walked out of his room and walked down the corridors to the Mess Hall. He waved a usual hello to fellow guards who walked past him and continued on down.

As Flash entered the Mess Hall, he was stunned by it's lack of ponies. Where is everypony? He thought curiously, but his rumbling stomach shook him from his thoughts, refocusing him on food.

He got his breakfast, eat it quickly, and continued out to meet Twilight, after all, they were going on a trip to Ponyville today.

Flash ate quickly, avoiding ponies trying to get his attention, or the usual salutes that lower ranks give officers as they pass.

After he finished, Flash headed back up to his room only to get out of his armor and into his Royal Guard Uniform, mostly worn for formal events, Flash decided to wear it for the public appearance he would be making today.

When he finished with everything back in his room, Flash walked out and looked at the Canterlot Clocktower, which read 9:07. Twilight should be up by now. With that thought, he turned and went down the hallway that lead to the Royal Chambers.

As he passed each chamber he was stopped by a voice calling his name -

"Captain Flash Sentry." A soothingly familiar voice sounded from behind him, but when Flash whipped around, he saw not Princess Twilight, but Princess Celestia.

Flash felt his leg fold underneath him as he bowed in respect. "Salutations, Your Highness." He said politely.

Celestia merely grinned, her smile seemed to light the entire hallway. "Relax, Captain. I entrust you are here for Princess Twilight?"

Flash could do nothing but nod. "Yes, Your Highness."

Celestia nodded back at him. "Then go, she is in the library."

Flash stood up, thanked her, and turned around to leave. "Captain." Celestia stopped him again. Flash looked back at Celestia. "Take care of her." He nodded, and trotted off to the library.

Upset that he now had to trot to the other side of the castle, Flash quickened his pace to make up for the lost time.

As Flash trotted down the halls of stain-glass windows he was stopped by a white stallion in regular guardmen armor, but what made him stand out was the silver service star. "Captain."

Flash whipped around. "Yes, Lieutenant Silvershot?" He asked his highest ranking officer.

"Sorry to interrupt your most important royal attendance." He said sarcastically, gestering to Celestia. "When will the new recruits arrive? I'm prepping the training areas and would like to know my time schedule." His cyan eyes seemed to pierce Flash's gaze.

Flash tapped his until his memory came back. "They should be arriving early next week. Tuesday at the latest."

Silvershot nodded. "Thank you, Captain." He said before dashing off down the corridor.

Flash could only stare as the white stallion galloped down the corridor. I knew I could trust him. He felt a tingle of pride in his chest. But why wasn't Silvershot made Captain instead of me?

With a sigh, Flash shook himself from his old thoughts as he wished to forget about the past year and what it had been for him. He began trotting down the corridor again, he still had a little way to go until he reached the library.

When Flash finally arrived at the entrance of the Canterlot Archives, he was greeted by the usual librarian who sat behind the front desk. "Hello Captain. I assume you'd be looking for Princess Twilight?" A grin reaching across her muzzle as she spoke.

Flash chuckled. "Yes, I am. Could you point me to the section of where she is?"

The mare raised a hoof and pointed it to one of the far corners of the library. "In the History section."

With a nod and a thank you, Flash walked up the stairs and into the back section of the library.

Flash turned a corner, and down at the end in her usual spot, laid Twilight, with several books around her. She was obviously deep into a book.

Flash grinned as he stalked around her and came up behind her. When he was right next to her, he poked her with both hooves, "Boo!" he shouted.

Twilight flew backwards in fear as she let out of yelp. Flash fell back as well in laughter. "Why would you do that!" Twilight growled as she playfully threw one of her books at Flash, which he easily blocked.

"Because that reaction was so perfect." He responded to Twilight's question. "Why are you up so early? You're usually awake until two and asleep until ten-ish."

Twilight probed the books with a hoof. "I wanted to read some more."

Flash sighed. "You do take your studies seriously. Are you ready to go to Ponyville today?"

With those words, Twilight's eyes shot open. "Ponyville! I forgot all about Ponyville!" She bounced off the cushion she was sitting on. She quickly sat down and pulled out what seemed like a letter and handed it to Flash. "You might want to read this before we go."

Flash, unsure of what he was going to read, reluctantly took the letter and opened it -

Dear Twilight

How could you not tell us of your relationship with your coltfriend! We found out from a friend who had read it in a newspaper! When you come to Ponyville bring him along, we would love to meet the Captain of the Royal Guard. Also, please make sure you brush your mane-

Flash began you chuckled as he read the last part of instructions Twilight's parents had given her. Twilight quickly snatched it from him. "What was that? Daily necessities? You have to be told to brush your teeth?"

Twilight blushed and stared at the ground. "I wasn't exactly concerned about my appearance as a filly. My studies were more important to me."

Flash held in his laughter, but couldn't help but smile uncontrollably. "Sounds like something you would do." He breathed.

Twilight gave him a friendly shove. "Shutup. That's all in the past."

"So. Your parents are meeting us in Ponyville?"

"Yes." Twilight nodded.

Great. I thought I could have the day with Twilight. Only thing that could be worse is if my parents show up, and I just jinxed myself. Flash cursed himself. "Well, its around 10. Do you want to get going?" He asked her.

Twilight closed her books. "Sure. I just need to put these away." Flash nodded, and Twilight began levitating the books back into their places in the shelves.

"I'll go get a couple of pegasi ready to fly us over." He told her as he turned around and be trotted away.

Flash went straight to the Royal Guard HQ deep in the castle. He walked up to the door, opened it and walked down the few stairs into the lobby where the desk pony, a unicorn named Moonshine, sat at her post.

Moonshine saw Flash, stood up and saluted. "Morning, sir."

Flash saluted back. "Morning Moonshine. I need you to do something."

"What is it sir?" She tipped her head.

Flash leaned his hooves on her desk. "I need you to get somepony to round up two pegasi and tell them to be at the front entrance in 10 with a carriage, it's for Princess Twilight."

Moonshine smiled as took a piece of paper and wrote on it, rolled it up, and her horn lit up and with a poof it disappeared, now in the hooves of another pony. She looked back up at Flash, "That it sir?"

"No, I need you to send another message to Lieutenant Silvershot and tell him that he I am going to be gone for the day, and that he is in charge." He told her, and Moonshine got out another piece of paper, handed it to Flash and he began to write out a letter stating that Silvershot would be in charge for the while, and that Night Breeze will be second-in-command, with Dust Storm next under.

When he finished the letter, he rolled his up, handed it to Moonshine, who levitated it, and with another poof the scroll disappeared, and re-appeared in Silvershot's hooves.

Moonshine looked back up at Flash when the letter was gone. "Anything else, sir?"

Flash shook he head. "No. Thank you for your assistance."

Moonshine nodded. "Your welcome sir."

Flash nodded and walked into his office, sat down, and quickly skimmed through the pile of about ten letters on his desk. Throwing most of them aside, he put important ones in the middle of his desk.

With a sigh, he looked at the clock. I got 3 minutes. Better be early for the pegasi. He stood up and straightened out his Dress Uniform that had been wrinkled and crooked from the way he was sitting, after all, he wasn't planning on being in here, since he took the day off.

Flash walked out and headed down the corridors to the main entrance of the Canterlot Castle. As he neared it, he could see the massive steel gates hanging over the door with the two guards posted outside.

They haven't arrived yet. Did Moonshine sent the letter to the wrong pony? Just as his thought ran through his mind, two pegasi in golden armor landed at the front gate, a carriage attached to them. Nop.

Flash walked up to guards, who were now sitting. "Morning, guardsmen."

The two peagsi stood up and saluted Flash. "Morning sir." One greeted Flash. "You asked for us to bring a carriage?"

"Yes I did. It's for Princess Twilight." He nodded as he told them.

The guards exchanged a glance with a grin on their muzzles.

Flash tipped his head. "Is there something wrong with it?"

The guards refocused on the Captain again, and one shook his head. "No sir. All good here." The pony said with a slight smirk.

I'm not liking this already. Flash snorted as he thought. He turned his head so he faced the inside of the castle. Coming down the stairs to the entrance was Twilight, trotting along.

Flash walked over and met her halfway. He bowed as she walked up to him. "Princess Twilight." He grinned as he spoke.

"Flash Sentry." Twilight smiled back.

"Ready for our trip to Ponyville?"

Twilight almost bounced on her hooves. "You bet I am! I can't wait to introduce you to all my friends!"

And your parents... Flash thought to himself. "Well, come on." He gestured Twilight to get on the carriage.

Once Twilight was on, Flash stepped on beside her and leaned over to the pegasi. "To Ponyville good sirs."

The two guards saluted, and took off. Flying high above the trees, Flash watched the magical city of Canterlot get smaller and smaller.

Twilight rested her head on Flash's shoulder. "It's been so long since I was in Ponyville. Last time I remember it was when I went back after my coronation into being a princess. Only for a few weeks though."

Flash simple put wrapped a wing around her. "I'm sure it's no different than the way you left it." He soothed her, but he kept his eyes on Canterlot, now fading in the distance. "I wonder if my parent's are still there."

"What?" Twilight lifted her head and looked at him. "Where?"

"Ponyville." Flash stared out into the distance. "It's where I grew up. I was shipped to the Crystal Empire when I enlisted in the Royal Guard. I haven't seen them since."

His eyes seemed to fog up with his last memories of his parents. His mother crying as he boarded the train to the Crystal Empire, and his father wishing him the best of luck. The whole ordeal of him leaving was very emotional. Flash's heart felt heavy with sorrow, he almost had forgotten what his parent's looked like.

Flash felt a hoof touch his shoulder, and he looked over to see Twilight staring at him. "I'm sure they will be there. We'll probably run into them." She soothed him.

The rest of the trip was more quiet than anything. As the pegasi guards landed the carriage, Flash let Twilight off first, and ponies gathered around to see who was arriving to Ponyville. "Citizens of Ponyville! Please welcome Princess Twilight Sparkle and Captain Flash Sentry of the Royal Guard!"

Flash felt like his fur was burning as eyes trained on him and Twilight as they walked through the streets. It was expected that all ponies bowed in the presence of royalty, and the humble ponies of Ponyville did so. One after the next the sea of ponies dropped down on one knee as they bowed.

Twilight wasn't used to the respect that came with the title of 'Princess'. When Flash looked over, she seemed to be shying away from the now massive crowd.

Geez, it's like all of Ponyville is here. Flash cleared his throat and spoke to the crowd. "Citizen arise, return to your duties." He boomed through the town.

The ponies began to rise and disperse. Several of them running to Twilight and bowing to her up close and saying their usual 'hellos' and 'I am honored to meet you' sayings that Flash has heard all too many times over the years. He quickly shooed them away, as standard guard protocol, a citizen was not allowed too closely (1 meter/3 feet) to a royal, in fear they may be assaulted.

He then turned around to the pegasi guards. "You might want to find something to do. We will be here all day."

The pegasi gave a little snort and nodded, then trotted off, and Flash returned the princess. "So what should we do first Princess?"

"Well I think I should introduce you to my friends." She looked at Flash, then leaned in closer. "You know you don't have to call me 'Princess' you know." She whispered to him.

"Well it's a public place. It's part of being a guard." He whispered back. "We have to call all royal's by their titles." He leaned out and cleared his throat. "Well, you lead. I don't remember this place that much."

Twilight nodded and started to walk off. "Ok. Let's go meet Applejack."

Flash felt his ears flatten a little. Oh boy, that sounds southern. Hopefully she's the nice kind. Like the chocolateer in Canterlot. He silently hoped. "Great. Right behind you."

The two traveled to the outskirts of the town until a big red barn came into sight. "I assume they live here?" Flash asked.

Twilight nodded. "Yes, and it's called Sweet Apple Acres."

Flash rolled his eyes. I assume they have really sweet apples then. Flash felt that his sarcasm was going to bite back.

When they finally made it to the door, Twilight lifted a hoof and knocked on the barn door. The sound of barrels falling over and chickens squealing were the only thing coming from the inside. At least until a loud voice yelled out, "Get back here ya' vermin!"

Flash shot a glance at Twilight, who merely chuckled uncomfortably. "Uh Applejack, it's Twilight. Hopefully you're not to busy!"

More sounds of crashing and falling sounded from inside, with an occasional oof until the door opening and Applejack stood in the doorway. Her eyes grew as big as the moon when she saw Twilight. "Twilight! Is that really you?" She seemed to freeze in her tracks. "I haven't seen ya' since - since, ya' became a princess!" She ran into Twilight and hugged her tightly.

Twilight seemed to be taken aback by not only the mud now on her fur, but how emotional her usually-proud friend was. "Uh - Applejack, are you ok? You're a bit - emotion." She started to push away her friend.

Applejack backed up and nodded. "Ahm' sorry Twi', I jus' haven't seen ya' in a while." She cleared her throat and stood up straight when her eyes drifted over to Flash, who stood there like a knight in shining armor, except he was literally in armor. "Erm - howdy there partner. Name's Applejack, welcome to Sweet Apple Acres! We got the best apples here in Equestria!" She spoke proudly.

Flash nodded simply. "It's a pleasure to meet you Applejack. I am -"

"Yer' Captain Flash Sentry. I know, it sure is an honor to meet ya sir." She cut in. "I'd assume yer' here on official business?"

Twilight stepped forward again. "Actually, Flash took a day off so we were coming to Ponyville for a day together. I decided I would introduce Flashy to all of my friends. You're the first Applejack." She explained.

Applejack eyed Twilight at how she called Flash. "Flashy? That names sounds like you two are pretty close."

Twilight blushed, and Flash coughed a bit. "Well, erm, Applejack, was it? You don't happen to read the newspapers do you?"

As he expected, Applejack shook her head. "No sir, don't got time to. Farm workins' takes up a lotta' time."

Flash nodded. At least that makes sense. He cleared his throat. "Well, me and Twilight are, uh, close." He struggled to reveal the truth.

"We're married Applejack." Twilight rolled her eyes. "We have been for a while now."

Applejack's eyes flew as wide as an owl again. "Wha-? Yer' married? Well congratulations ta' both of ya!" Her gazed went to Flash, who was shyly smiling, then back to Twilight. "You got yerself' a good colt there."

Flash's cheeks turned hot and a crimson color as he looked at his hooves. "Well, thanks Applejack."

"You betcha." She swung her head as she said the words. "Any colt that makes Twi' happy is good with me."

It was Twilight's turn to blush. "Aw, Applejack come on."

Applejack rolled her eyes. "Alright. Hey Twi', you ok if we get together again some time? I'm real busy now." She asked.

Twilight shook her head. "No, sorry Applejack. This is the only time I could visit right now." She told her now saddened friend.

"Ah' understand." Applejack lowered her gaze. Then propped it back up and looked at Flash. "Well, it was mighty swell to meet ya' Mr. Sentry." She shook Flash's hoof.

"Likewise." Flash simply responded as he wiped his now muddy hoof on the ground. I could never be a farm pony. Guess that is why there are good ponies like Applejack.

She hugged Twilight once more and separating a moment later. "It was great seein' ya again Twi'." Applejack smiled at the princess.

"You too Applejack." Twilight smiled back.

As they started to walk away, Applejack grabbed Flashes leg and yanked him back and hissed in his ear. "If you hurt Twi' in anyway, I'll buck your muzzle through a barnyard door. Ya' understan' me?"

Flash felt himself start sweating in nervousness, but forced a small smile. "I wouldn't even want to hurt her, but I appreciate your care for her."

With that, Applejack let him go and the two walked away from Sweet Apple Acres.

* * *

The pair wandered Ponyville, meeting each and every pony Twilight knew close to heart, each one of them giving Flash some sort of threat, expect Fluttershy. A few of the meetings being rather awkward, like when Flash met Rainbow Dash, who obviously wasn't fond of Flash, and threatened him more than Applejack. They quickly parted ways.

"Your friends surely are protective of you." Flash commented to Twilight.

She simply smiled at him. "What do you expect? We've been best friend for years. We've been through everything together!"

Flash nodded. "Right, Elements of Harmony yada-yada." He felt a soft nudge on his side as he chuckled to a pouting Twilight. "So." He cleared his throat. "Who's left that you want to show me?" Flash asked the princess walking beside him. "My hoofs are getting sore."

Twilight stopped and stared at Flash, amusement sparkling in here eyes. "Says the pony who once stood guard at one spot for two hours on end every day!" She let out a slight, "Hmph!" and continued walking along.

Flash sighed. She will never understand what it means to be a guard. But who cares? With the thought in mind, he followed closely behind the alicorn.

"So, could you at least answer my question?" Flash asked as he caught up to her.

"My parents." Twilight breathed.

Flash felt like he turned to stone as he stopped dead in his track. Parent's? Oh crap. This won't end well. "Really?" He asked, doubt hinting in his voice.

"Yes." Twilight response was bitter cold to Flash.

This should be an eventful night. Flash thought to himself as he continued on down the road, to a place not even Twilight had been to for a few years.

* * *

As dust fell upon the small town of Ponyville, the pair made their way to a house in the middle of the town. The residence of Nightlight and Twilight Velvet.

Flash was shy to walk up to the door, unlike Twilight, who seemed more excited than ever as she knocked a hoof on the wooden door.

A few seconds past, and the door swung open. Standing the frame was a dark blue stallion with a cutie-mark resembling the moon with a star next to it.

"Dad!" Twilight seemed to yell as her eyes sparkled.

The stallion's eyes lit up as well, and the two embraced a hug. When they finished, his eyes drifted over to Flash. "I see you brought a friend, Twily." He said in a friendly yet not-so-sure voice.

Flash cleared his throat. "I am Flash Sentry, sir. Captain of the Royal Guard."

The stallion walked over, Flash getting more nervous with each step he took. "Salutations Flash Sentry. I am Nightlight. Twilight's father. Please come in and meet my wife." He stepped aside to let Flash through.

Flash walked into the house, his hooves unsure of where they were going. "Twilight! Come see who is visiting!" Nightlight called into the house.

A moment later, hoofs were heard as Twilight's mother, Twilight Velvet, walked in. A gasp escaped her as she and her daughter exchanged a well over-due hug. Flash could only watch.

"Mom it's been too long since I've seen you!" Twilight squeaked.

They pulled away and Twilight Velvet stared at her daughter's wings. "I-You couldn't imagine how proud I am of you! You're a princess now!"

Another hug was exchanged, and that's when her eyes rested on Flash. "I see you've brought someone Twilight."

Her stare made Flash's pelt burn, as he went to introduce himself, Twilight spoke before he could. "Yes! Mom, this is Captain Flash Sentry, of the royal guards! He's also my fiancé." She said with a bright smile.

"I see!" Twilight Velvet's eyes lit up as she walked over to Flash. "Well, I am Twilight Velvet, Twilight's Mother."

That won't get confusing fast. Flash didn't hear the rest. "It's a pleasure to meet you two."

The group proceeded to talk, have dinner, and share a few laughs. All the while Flash was well aware of a protective Twilight Velvet watching him. Flash didn't really look at Nightlight at all, but he didn't need to, he could feel the daggers of eyes piercing his thoughts.

Once dinner was finished, Nightlight nudged Flash. "Hey Cap', why don't we go talk on the porch."

Feeling himself swallow fear, he nodded. "Sure Mr. Light."

Nightlight chuckled. "Mr. Light, that's rich." A warm smile filled his muzzle. "Just call me Nightlight."

"Oh course - Nightlight." Flash hesitated on saying his full name, which just made Nightlight laugh.

"We'll work on it." He said as he lead Flash onto the porch. "Honey!" He called to Twilight Velvet. "Me and Flash Sentry will be on the porch!"

"Okay!" A reply sounded from inside the house.

Out on the porch, Nightlight and Flash simply conversed in small talk, and as day turned to night, Nightlight simply sighed at one point, and Flash asked him what was wrong. "I happy for you two, believe me, you might be thinking 'Oh god he's gonna kill me because is the dad of a princess' stuff, but honestly, I just ask one thing of you." The two ponies locked eyes. "Take care of her Flash? She's my only daughter."

Flash was taken aback by this. Unsure of where this came from, he simply nodded. "Of course, I wouldn't ever think of doing anything to hurt her. I love her."

A small smile grew on Nightlight's face. "Good. That's good. Because if you don't I'll -"

"Kill me?" Flash interrupted with a smirk. "Thanks but I've gotten that from all of Twilight's friends today."

Nightlight laughed out loud. "You've met them?" Flash nodded in response. "Yeah they're an odd bunch, but my daughters friend are fine with me."

Flash joined him with a chuckle. "Rainbow Dash and myself had a rough first meeting. She's quite rambunctious isn't she?"

Nightlight nodded. "Mmhmm, the Wonderbolt advocate. So is Pinkie Pie, she's pretty wild."

"Too wild." Flash murmured in agreement.

Nightlight chuckled again. "It's good to see Twilight's got a good colt. You're a damn fine stallion, Flash."

"Thank you Nightlight." Flash smiled.

Twilight Velvet came out to where the two stallions were. "Excuse me colts, but Flash, you have a visitor from the guard.

Flash nodded, and looked to the Nightlight and Twilight Velvet, with Twilight looking curiously over her mother's shoulder. "Excuse me." Flash got up and headed to the door, where an eager messenger waited for him.

"What is it guardspony? What do you need me for?" Flash barked at the young guardspony.

The messenger saluted and pulled out a scroll and gave it to Flash. "A message from the Royal Hierarchy, sir. You need to come in."

Flash shot a shocked glance at the messenger before looking down at the scroll -

Captain Flash Sentry,

Today at 1600 we have been alerted of a Changeling group massing outside the western border of Equestria. We need you to gather a patrol and investigate the situation, if this is what we think it is, the Changelings might be trying to prepare for another attack on Equestria. Should you find anything, abort the mission and report it immediately to us.

Signed,

Princess Celestia

Princess Luna

With a sigh, Flash rolled up the scroll and handed it back to the messenger. "I'll be there, I need a moment though."

The messenger nodded, and the door closed. Flash sighed. Here I thought I wouldn't get thrown back into battle.

Flash walked back to where the family was sitting, when he walking in, all eyes came to him. "What was it Flash?" Twilight spoke first.

With his gaze sadly fixed on her, he sighed his response. "I need to leave."

"What?" Twilight seemed taken aback from the response, and got up to confront Flash. "Why?"

Flash spoke quietly, not wanting Twilight's parents to hear. "Guard business, I've been called in, immediately, I'm sorry Twilight." He swiftly turned to her parents, staring at him, "Thank you for the dinner and the chat. It was nice meeting you two, but I have to go now." Without another word, he turned around and headed out of the house, where the messenger sat and waited for him.

"Farewell, Flash." Nightlight perked up again. "Hopefully I get to see you again."

Flash nodded in agreement, and then left the house.

Outside, Flash was unaware of the several guards that had accompanied the messenger. "Are you ready sir?" The messenger was leaning against the house. Flash nodded reluctantly, and the group began trekking back to the castle.

I thought I wouldn't have to fight anymore battles for a while, I guess I was truly wrong, but why now? When I'm suppose to marry Twilight in a few days?

Chapter 13: The Last Front

The door swung open to Flash's office back in the Canterlot Castle.

"There's a letter for you on your desk, Flash. From Princess Celestia." Flash's friends Night Breeze and Dust Storm had walked with him to his office, though Dust was called away by Lieutenant Silvershot for something.

Flash nodded and walked into his office, Night Breeze of which left him alone. The letter on his desk had the usual royal seal stamp on it, signifying it was from the royals. Flash opened it and read it off -

Captain Flash Sentry,

Earlier today we have gather information as to whereabouts of the changelings that were banished from Equestria on Princess Cadance and Captain Shining Armor's wedding have gathered at the western border of Equestria. It was decided by the hierarchy that you would lead (or choose somepony) a patrol to the border. This mission is classified, and we do not want anypony knowing about this, as well as this mission is to be conducted with the utmost stealth and you are not to engage in combat unless needed. You must send a patrol out as soon as possible. Should you be captured, we will deny all involvement in this operation. Fair travels.

Signed,
Princess Celestia
Princess Luna

Flash read the letter over and over again. He didn't understand several things, as to why the mission had to be secret, or why the changelings would gather at the western border, or gather at all.

He pushed the thoughts from his mind and thought carefully on who to pick. He might want to bring Night Breeze. Dust was never good in stealth occasions. Night Breeze was also a good tactician, so Flash put him down for one of his members, and decided that he would have a team of four ponies to conduct the mission, pegasus only in case of a hasty escape being needed.

Flash gather up names and had them assembled to the meeting room, where he had a prepped a briefing for the guards.

The guards entered curiously, since the setting was dark and moody, and the only light was a dim ceiling light and a bright light on the map of the area.

"Glad you could all come. Please, sit down. I have important business to talk to you about." Flash spoke with a flat voice, which grabbed all of the pony's attention, especially Night Breeze. Once everypony had gotten comfortable, Flash began. "What I'm about to tell you ponies, is classified, and you have been hoof-picked for this mission. You should be honored, and stressed out, this is an important mission."

A hoof flung up and Flash sighed mentally, and turned to the pony. "Yes?"

'So..." The guardspony shuffled his hooves. "Why is there only four of us?"

"If you would let me continue, you would figure out why." Flash explained, and the guardspony nodded simply.

The briefing was boring, but informative, just like any other briefing. The small group was sworn to secrecy, and were told to meet at the same place in one hour.

Flash trotted up and down the castle, trying to find something to do. At least until a messenger came trotting up to Flash.

"Captain!" He called. "A message from Princess Sparkle." He told Flash as he handed him a scroll, sealed the the familiar purple stamp of Twilight's cutiemark.

Flash wasn't surprised by the message, as he opened it up with little emotion.

Flash,

Since you have to go off to do something, I'm going to stay with my parents for a few more days or until you get back. Best of luck, and I'll see you soon!

Princess Twilight Sparkle

Fair enough. Flash thought as he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the messenger. "Thank you very much. You may go." He told the guard, who swiftly saluted and trotted off into the distant corridor of the Canterlot Castle.

Flash walked back to his office slowly, attempting to clear his mind of his thoughts, but as he cleared his minds of current thoughts and saw the entrance of his office, a shiver ran down his spine that reminded him of bad times.

Flash locked up and stumbled from painful memories. He looked around worried, muffled yelling sounded in the distance.

"Captain Sentry!" The muffled voice said, the figure coming closer to him. Finally until a hoof connecting to Flash's shoulder brought him back to reality. "Flash. I was looking for you."

The figure turned out to be Spitfire, Captain of the Wonderbolts. "Oh, I - How are you Spitifre?" Flash said, while still coming to.

"I'm fine. Are you okay? You don't look to good." Spitfire gave him an ice cold look.

Flash shook his head. "I'm fine. What did you need?" He re-routed the subject.

"Well," Spitfire perked up with pride. "my Wonderbolts are going to have a Field-Training Exercise this weekend, and I would like to know if your guards could participate, making it a Joint-Operations exercise. What do you think?" She edged closer to Flash. "Think your guards are good enough?" She smirked, giving Flash a daring look.

Flash huffed. "Yes, my guards are good enough, and I would love it if we could participate."

Spitfire lit up. "Fantastic! We'll be in touch about the date -"

"Except we can't."

Spitfire stared at him. "What? Why?"

Flash sighed. "I'm going on a mission Spitfire, and if I can't supervise my guards I don't want them participating."

"What mission?" Spitfire tilted her head. "Why wasn't I notified?"

Flash sighed. "I can't say. It's classified."

"Hmph. Do you want Wonderbolt support?" Spitfire offered.

Flash shook his head. "That won't be necessary, we can handle it. Thank you for the offer though."

Spitfire gave Flash a final look. "You always pride yourself on your guards Flash."

"I could say the same to you." Flash retorted with a smirk on his face."

"Hmph. I guess you're right." Spitfire admitted. "We're the best for a reason. Catch you later Flash."

Whew, glad that I didn't have to go into details about the mission. Always nice to talk to Spitfire though. He thought as he walked into his office, gather some items in briefcases, and headed into the briefing room.

In there, Flash rejoined with the group, and gave the run-down of the equipment. Instead of the regular golden armor they wore, they slid into specially made camouflaged armor that allowed the pegasi to blend in better with the brush and sky (don't ask how it works). They did not bring weapons, for better concealment, and the only utility was a notepad and flashlights.

"Sir, we aren't equipped to protect ourselves in case we get confronted." A guard complained.

Flash smirked at him. "I don't plan on getting caught. Just make sure your tail isn't sticking out of the bushes." His comment shut the guard up.

The group eventually left under the cover of a cloudy night and headed for the eastern border.

Most of the flight was boring, even as they reached the border, Flash warned the group of caution, but nothing was seen. At least, until a guard called out a spotting of a changeling. In which the squad dove lowered their altitude and eventually landed under the cover of the brush.

The group sneaked along the forest floor until they came to a cliff. Flash pried apart some branches and looked over. What he saw made his mouth drop to the floor.

In the valley below, laid at least one thousand changelings, or so it looked like. He couldn't tell. Night Breeze jotted down the findings and nodded to Flash.

"Alright, we got what we came for, lets go." A guard whispered to Flash.

Flash nodded, and signaled for the group to back up. As he went to turn around, movement caught the corner of his eye. When he looked back, the group of changelings were moving. "Wait, wait!" He called to his group quietly. "Activity in the valley." He pointed a hoof downwards. The group stalked up behind Flash and they began observing carefully.

Night Breeze poked Flash, "I don't understand." He commented. "Where's the queen?"

"I don't know." Flash admitted. "If we watch, maybe she'll appear."

Time passed by, notes were jotted down, and the group agreed that enough information had been gathered now that they saw that Queen Chrysalis was present.

Flash gave one last look at the changelings that had amassed and gave the signal for his group to leave. Unfortunately, one of the guards was standing too close to the edge, and slipped on loose dirt as he turned around and a very loud yelp sounded as the guard slipped and was now dangling over the massive drop below him.

"Crap! You two! Watch my back, I'll pull him up!" He quickly ordered the others, and leaped for the dangling guard, grabbing him and dragging him back up. The guard thanked him, and Flash nodded before his eyes going wide at the sight before him.

The changelings had all mobilized, and were right on top of the group, surrounded in all directions, the group was backed against the cliff. Outnumbered and outmatched in all aspects, this mission looked more and more like a suicide mission.

The two factions stood staring at each other, before the changelings made a dash for the group of four, in which the team sprung into action.

Flash was tackled to the ground by two changelings, but landed a punch into a changelings stomach, and threw one off, allowing him to wiggle out and stand back up. Then delivering a swift kick to the second changeling's jaw. An audible crack split through the air.

A look to Flash's right showed his team engaged in all directions. Flash saw a group of changelings tackle a guard to the ground, a second guard fending off against another group of changelings, and Night Breeze relentlessly slamming a hoof into the face of a changeling he had pinned to a tree.

Flash rushed to the pinned guard, blood roaring inside him as he felt like he heard his heart pounding as he slammed into the group of changelings. Kicking and punching furiously as he fought to get the horde off of his guard.

After the bodies cleared, Flash looked down at an unconscious guard, laying still on the ground. Flash had little time to think as he was slammed from behind and thrown onto the ground and all oxygen in Flash's body was sucked out.

Flash felt a swarm of changelings pile on him, Flash did what he could to defend against furious strikes to his body and head, most of which were futile, and Flash felt a stream of blood flow from his head.

The battle was short, the group, heavily outmatched, though he had killed a good number changelings. Although their best efforts, were eventually overrun, and taken prisoner. One guard was killed by a changeling piercing his neck with it's sharp teeth. The other three were rounded up and presented to Queen Chrysalis.

The three of them stood next to each other, their hooves bounded together. The queen towered over them, "Well well, what do we have here?" Her intimidating voice shook the ponies.

"Three spies, your majesty, the other is dead." One changeling commented.

"I know you idiot! I'm not blind!" Chrysalis hissed before turning back to the group of ponies, trying to show some pride. "I'm going to ask you ponies once." She lowered her head to eye level with the ponies. "Why were you spying on us? Did Celestia send you?"

No pony dared to speak, and kept their mouths shut. Chrysalis snorted and lifted her head. "Very well. Dispatch them however you see fit." She told her changelings as she stalked away.

The changelings grinned as they walked up to the three ponies. They unleashed a fury of violent attacks on the helpless ponies.

Flash felt a blur of kicks and punches that put him on the ground next to his comrades. His last vision would be his fellow guardponies being beaten, possibly to death.

~

Flash woke suddenly in a dark cage, he didn't know what it was made of, but he knew one thing. He was alive, but he hurt all over his body.

He sat up, his side sending shockwaves of pain up his body as he clutched it and gritted his teeth in pain. When he went to extend his wings, he found that they were bound by rope.

As he struggled with the constricting rope around his wings, the door to his cage swung open, and Flash made out four changelings walk in, hit him, and dragged out the battered Captain into the sunlight. The changelings threw Flash into another structure, where he heard the hiss of yet another changeling.

"I'm going to ask you once. What were you doing on the cliff?" The changeling hissed in Flash's ear.

Flash looked up at the creature the best he could with the sunlight burning his eyes, and simply spit blood from his mouth onto the changeling, who hissed and slammed a hoof into Flash's face.

"Filthy creature." The changeling whipped his face. "Take him back to his cell."

Flash was again punched and kicked then dragged back to his cold, dark cell, only to be thrown in, beaten again, and left to wait for the next beating to come.

Twilight. I hope you're doing fine, and I'm sorry. Flash sighed. I'm so sorry. I just want to be home right now. Flash covered his face with his hooves and wished he were home. His body battered and sore, he drifted off to sleep.

~

The sound of a stone hitting a jell-like substance sounded throughout Flash's cell. Flash picked up his head and perked his ears in the direction of the sound. Flash got up and spun around, he had to squint to see through the jell-like cell, and saw a purple figure moving in a cell next to him.

Flash gasped at the sight of his comrade Night Breeze. At least he was still alive, and well, not paralyzed or badly injured. Night Breeze noticed Flash's movement, and tried to make hoof-signals to him. Most were vague and understandable, but this didn't matter to Flash, he had a new confidence in him that he could make it through this.

The sun was barely rising over the horizon, and Flash saw four changelings walking towards the cells, Flash motioned to be quiet to Night Breeze, who nodded.

The changelings opened the cells and grabbed the ponies harshly and pulling this out of their cells. With a loud "oof" Flash hit the ground before getting on all four hooves again. Walking next to Night Breeze, two changelings were behind the two, and two were in front, leading the way.

The sun was shone through the holes in the top of the cave as the group made it to their destination, it was the same place as yesterday. Flash and Night Breeze were place in front of another changeling, presumably a high-up-in-command type of changeling for the same questioning.

"I'll ask you again, pony." The changeling lifted Flash's head. "Why were you on the cliff?"

Flash looked to his sides, then back to the changeling. "Where is our third guard?"

The changeling smiled. "None of your business. Now answer my question." He sat forward. "Why were you spying on us?"

Flash sighed as he looked over to Night Breeze, who stared back, an expression of shock on his face. "I will not answer that question." He gave the changeling a firm look. Speaking with as much intimidation as possible.

The changeling sat back, relaxing as he re-opened his mouth to speak. "That's quite honorable, pony. I can understand why you don't want to talk. Maybe you just need some encouragement." He said with a grin.

With that, two changelings then moved to the third cell, one Flash had not noticed. The cell containing the one other pony that survived their encounter. The changelings opened up the cell door, beat the pony more, and dragged him out in front of Night Breeze and Flash.

"If you don't want your precious guardspony to die, you'll answer the question." The changeling sneered, dragging a blade across the pony.

The pony stared at Flash. "Don't tell him anything! Don't - mmph!" Before the pony could finish his sentence, a changeling covered his mouth. The pony breathing rapidly underneath a changeling's hoof.

"Well?" The changeling grinned viciously at Flash and Night Breeze. "He's waiting for you. Answer my question, and he lives."

Flash and Night Breeze simply stared at the changeling.

With a growl, the changeling took the blade and stabbed the pony in the side of his stomach, causing him to reel and scream in pain. "Any day now, he's waiting on you!" The changeling challenged.

"Buck you!" Flash screamed.

The changeling's grin disappeared, and with anger fueling it, he ripped the knife out of the pony's side and started jamming it into his throat, ripping it out, and jamming it in again, tearing it across his neck, behind slamming it home into the guardspony's chest.

Flash had never wished to see something like this in his life, nor had he ever wished for his guards to suffer as he watched the poor soul choke on his own blood, spewing from his neck onto the cold rock floor, his hooves useless as they twitched, still tied up by rope. He watched the pony's life drain from his eyes, as he felt a tear slide down his cheek as he bowed his head, only to be yanked back up by a changeling, forced to watch his comrade die.

"Still nothing?" The changeling sneered. Then postured up. "My my, they make them tough. Throw them back in their cells. 'Till tomorrow, ponies." He slammed his mouth closed, and made a clicking noise to the changelings around them.

On that queue, four changelings walked in and grabbed Flash and Night Breeze and dragged them out and back through the mud and brush and were thrown back into their cells.

Once the guards had gone, Flash looked over at Night Breeze's cell. It had the same air holes that Flash's cell had, big enough to throw a pebble through.

Flash scratched at the ground until he was able to get a small rock and tossed it through the hole. The rock flew and hit Night Breeze's cell, which made him perk up and look over. Flash pressed his muzzle to the hole and spoke softly, careful to alert the guard next to his cell. "Can you hear me?" He called.

Night Breeze nodded, and Flash continued. "Listen, I have an idea to get out. You need to trust me, it's either this or death."

The chilling words got the Night Breeze, who understood when he responded. "I understand. What do you want me to do?"

"Nothing, just sit tight. I'm going to act sick. When the guard opens my cell and checks me, I'll jump him. Then open your cell." He explained quickly.

Night Breeze nodded again, then sat back and watched. Flash looked at the guard, and slammed his hooves on the ground and yelled at the guard, "Ah! Guard!" He held his hoof, rolling in pain. "I think I broke my hoof!" He spoke through clenched teeth.

The changeling panicked and quickly opened the cell and knelt down and inspected Flash's hoof, when he turned around to shout for help, Flash quickly wrapped his hooves around the changeling's head, and twisted violently, ending the changeling's life.

Flash took the key off of the changeling and ran over to Night Breeze's cell and opened it quickly. "Come on, let's go!" He ordered.

The two ran out of the cave awkwardly, the ropes binding their front hooves together making it difficult, and having to avoid a few guards now and again, and rushed into the dense brush to conceal themselves and began stalking away from the cave. As they ran, the sound of changelings waking up and yelling was now behind them. "Looks like we just woke the hornet's nest." He wheezed to Night Breeze as he forced a smirk.

Night Breeze exchanged the smile, and the two ran off into the forest, although the changelings would be out for them soon.

Once a good distance, Night Breeze tapped Flash's shoulder. "Do you know which way Equestria even is?" He asked, obviously worried.

Flash looked at the sun, which was setting on the horizon, the direction from which them came. "The sun sets in the west, and our mission was on the eastern border of Equestria. That means we go this way." Flash pointed at the dense forest that lay ahead.

"How do you know that Equestria is that way?" Night Breeze questioned.

Flash sighed. "I don't." He confessed. "It's a shot in the dark, but we have to take it. Any better ideas?" He asked.

Night Breeze shook his head, and the pair ventured on.

When nightfall stuck, the two set up a make-shift camp for the night. Flash sat up-right, struggling with his ropes, Night Breeze was doing the same to his. "Celestia these damn ropes are too tight!" Flash complained through a mouthful of ropes.

Night Breeze simply looked up to Flash, "I don't think they're going to budge anytime soon. We just gotta deal with it." He sighed. "Do you think we will make it home?" He asked Flash.

"I don't know." Flash spoke softly. "But for all reasons under Celestia's sun, I hope we do get home, and soon." He told his comrade. "I hope we do." He walked over and put a hoof on his friends shoulder. "Hey, come on. Let's get a fire going."

With a soft nod, the two trekked off to get wood, returned, and set a fire for the night. Struggled with their ropes once more to no avail, and with a soft sigh the two huddled together among the dense jungle and slowly drifted off to sleep.

Author's Notes:

Whew, didn't expect that to turn dark. Leave comments on my progress and what you thought of the chapter, and thanks for reading!

Chapter 14: Outcast

Twilight trotted around the Canterlot Castle. She couldn't seem to find her husband anywhere. Which was strange, she had checked all the places he could have been.

She ran into her former mentor, Princess Celestia. "Princess!" She called to her.

Celestia's heart was always warmed when she saw her prized pupul. "Hello, Twilight. How are you?"

"I'm fine." Twilight lied. "Do you know where Flash Sentry is?"

Celestia's mood changed. Her eyes darted back and forth. "Oh, I'm sorry. I don't. Have you check his office?"

Twilight nodded. "I've checked everywhere, I can't find him."

"He couldn't of gone far." Celestia reassured her former student. "I will keep and eye for him."

Twilight sighed. "Thanks Princess. I'll talk to you later!" She told her before trotting off down the long corridors of the castle.

Celestia stared at the floor. What did happen to Flash Sentry? She pondered the question, and trotted to Flash's office, now unusually empty.

On her way there, a guard rushed up to her. "Princess Celestia!"

Celestia spun around to meet the guard. "Yes?"

"You need to follow me. Now." The guard sounded urgent.

The guard led Celestia to the front gate, in which two carts were there, with a blue tarp covering something in the back of each of the carts. "Bring it in." Celestia told the guards.

The carts were wheeled into the castle, where the tarps were removed, and a collective gasp rang out through the castle. As the mangled bodies of the two guards that died on the supposedly "secret" mission. One of them limbs twisted in an impossible fashion, and the other, his throat slashed, a hole where his heart should be, and a part of his side missing, his eyes wide open and still watery from the tears he shed.

The guards looked back and forth between the corpses and Celestia. Who put a hoof to her mouth and began to tear.

Our guards. Flash Sentry. What have I done? Celestia closed her eyes to prevent her tears from showing as she turned and ran back to her sister's room.

She slammed her hoof on the door, and Luna answered. "Sister! What hath troubled thou at this hour?" She was obviously concerned.

Celestia immediately wrapped her hooves around her sister. "Go look in the lobby of the castle. You will see." She whispered through sobs.

"Come with me sister, I shall see what thou art speaking of." Luna proclaimed, and Celestia reluctantly followed.

When they reached the lobby, the guards had closed off the entire area to prevent on-lookers from seeing.

Luna gasped when she saw the corpses, and Celestia simply shielded her eyes from the horror in front of her.

"Guards, move the bodies to the cemetery. Prep them for a proper burial." Luna ordered the guards, who covered the bodies and moved them out.

"Sister," She turned to Celestia, who had tears streaming down her face. "there is only two bodies, we sent four ponies in. Where be the other two?" She asked her.

Celestia took her hoof down and stared at her sister with misty eyes, tears streaming down her cheeks. "That's just it sister! One other and our Captain are missing! How am I suppose to break this to Twilight? That her husband died in combat merely a few days before their wedding? I can't do that!" She bawled as she collapsed onto her sister.

Luna could only try to comfort her. She had no answer for her sister. "Sister, there must be a way." She thought, before speaking away. "Do what Flash had to do, and write grievance letters to each of the families of the guards."

Celestia pulled away. "I guess I have to do that. Thank you sister." Luna nodded, and they parted ways, Luna to keep supervision on the funeral, and Celestia began writing letters out, her first one would be the hardest. Writing a letter to the to-be wife of the Captain of the Royal Guard, her own student, Twilight Sparkle.

She sobbed as she took a quill and began writing out the first letter.

~

Twilight was resting at her parent's house for the evening, since she didn't have her regular company, she decided to stay with her parents. A knock on the door interrupted the family's dinner, which Twilight answered.

A royal guard stool tall at the entrance. "Letter for Princess Twilight Sparkle."

"That's me. Thank you." Twilight took the letter and closed the door. She opened it and began reading it slowly, hoping it would bring good news-

Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle,

It has been brought to my attention that your fiancé, Flash Sentry, Captain of the Royal Guards, was sent on a mission about one day ago, from which he has not returned, and is believed to be missing behind hostile borders. I will not beguile you into believing that he is safe, because we simply do not know. Recently, the bodies of two of the guards sent on the mission were found, your husband was not one of them. Due to all of the current evidence I am most unfortunate to tell you that I must pronounce Captain Flash Sentry to be killed in action.

With A Heavy Heart,
Princess Celestia
Princess Luna

Twilight was stuck in a daze, staring at the paper that just seemed to destroy her life. The pony she loved, wanted to be together with, was dead. Her daze was stopped when she heard her tears hitting the scroll. In which she heard her parents calling, "Twi! What's going on? Who was it?"

Twilight slumped to her parents, who immediately changed their expression and were concerned for her now. "What's wrong?" Twilight Velvet asked.

Twilight simply handed her mother the letter, which she read, and began to sob uncontrollably. Then getting up to hug her daughter, who had burst into tears. Her father would join her after he read the letter. One of the most credited and honored ponies in Equestria, the future husband of Princess Twilight Sparkle, was dead.

~

The day in which was originally planned for Twilight and Flash's wedding, quickly became the date of the funeral for the four guardponies. The newspapers flashed the story, telling the tragic loss to the now grieving country.

The pictures of the four guards were hoisted up above a stage in the castle cemetery, as different ponies came up to speak about the loved one they've lost. All except Twilight, who just stayed next to her brother, Shining Armor, Sister-In-Law, Princess Cadance, and her parents.

While this was going on, guards carried four caskets covered by the Equestrian Flag, one for each of the guards, even if no body was present, and placed them next to individual graves.

Princess Celestia's voice spoke with grievance but reassurance, that the guards died "...for their country, an honorable and valiant sacrifice." Her eyes locked to Twilight through most of her speech.

Every Equestrian Flag in the country was held at half mast for the rest of the day, and as the flags were taken off the caskets and then lowered into the graves, families said their final goodbyes, and left, leaving behind a trail of tears, Dust Storm crying more than anypony.

Spitfire remained a little longer however, staring at the grave, their last conversation in mind after she offered her Wonderbolt services for his "mission", "I'm going on a mission Spitfire..." She sighed as she looked at Celestia, who was just leaving the area. Just what the hell kind of mission did she send you on Flash? She thought as she stalked out of the cemetery and into the castle.

Although two of the guards were confirmed to be killed in action, the others remained a mystery, because nopony knew exactly or generally where their whereabouts were, and were lost to wonder.

~

"Get down!"

Night Breeze and Flash Sentry dropped their bodies to the forest floor. A group of changelings patrolled the area ahead of them, obviously looking for them.

They kept their bodies low, using whatever cover could camouflage their outlines.

Once the patrol passed, Flash motioned to move forward and the pair crept along the forest floor.

As they came up to clearing, Flash halted again, Night Breeze close behind. "What is it?" He whispered.

"Clearing, no cover." Flash responded.

"They couldn't have gone far! Spread out and search, I want them found NOW!" An angry voice sounded in the distance.

Flash perked up and saw the tall figure of Queen Chrysalis standing over her changelings, who were searching the area. As changelings got closer, Flash's breath quickened, as his orange fur stuck out against the dark green marsh.

Flash looked back at Night Breeze, who had moved an inch closer to Flash. "When I flick you with my tail, we bolt."

Night Breeze nodded, and as the changelings got closer and closer, Flash sucked up the last of his energy and got ready to run.

Once a changeling was less than a meter away from the pair, Flash raised his tail and readied it, once the changeling looked away for a moment, he flicked Night Breeze.

The grass they had been in seemed to explode as the pair burst out.

As the two guards ran, the changeling stared, dazed, before finally calling the warning to the rest of the changelings, "Over there! They're getting away"! and took flight after the two ponies.

"You fools! Don't let them escape!" Chrysalis hissed from behind them.

Night Breeze panted along side Flash as they made their suicidal dash for freedom. If anything, Flash was exhausted too, but he knew if he stopped he would be killed along with his friend.

As the pair ran through the forest as fast as their battered bodies could carry them, they reached a cliff at which they skidded to a half before staring at its deathly drop that stood before them.

Flash looked behind them, and could see the brush starting to move with changeling activity headed for them. He looked back at the cliff, then to his friend. "We have to jump." He said sternly.

"What?!" Night Breeze looked at Flash like he had two heads. "Are you insane Flash?"

Flash returned the glare. "It's our only chance, look." He pointed at the fine lining of dirt that was the cliff. "The dirt is smooth enough for us to roll down." He explained.

Night Breeze shook his head. "That's a good 100 foot drop! We won't survive that!" He argued.

"We wont survive if we get caught again either!" Flash confessed to his friend with helpless eyes. "We need to jump, now."

Night Breeze sighed and nodded to his friend, and the two stood hoof to hoof at the edge of a cliff, backed in by a swarm of changelings, they prepared to jump, possibly to their death.

"We go on three." Flash told his friend through heartfelt eyes. Once his friend nodded, he started. "Okay."

"One..."

"Tw-AH!"

Before he could finish, the pair had been hit by a changeling's spell and flung them off the cliff. The changelings finally caught up and halted at the edge to watch the two bodies tumble down the cliff.

"No! You idiots! I wanted them alive!" Chrysalis screeched as she looked over the edge. "What am I suppose to do with two dead ponies as prisoners!? Who casted that spell?" She glared at her minions, as one of them raised a hoof. She forcefully levitated the changeling and threw it promptly off the cliff.

"Find them!" She huffed as she stalked away from her changelings who stared over the edge into the forest below. Even though the bodies weren't visible, they all wondered if the ponies were actually dead or not.

~

Spitfire searched the halls of the Canterlot Castle, looking for the ruler of the land.

Once found, the Captain walked up to the princess, eyes flared. "Princess Celestia."

Celestia turned slightly to rest her gentle gaze upon the fiery colored pegasus. "Captain Spitfire. How may I be of assistance?"

"Where did Flash Sentry go that would cause him and his squad death?" She questioned.

Celestia darted her eyes left and right and sighed. "I don't know where he took his squad Spitfire. I do know it was to a dangerous place."

Spitfire snorted. "You're stating the obvious Princess. Do you or do you not where Flash went?"

"No Spitfire, I don't." Her eyes widening.

Is that fear in her eyes? Spitfire snorted again. "Celestia, why are not keeping track of your guards? Personally, I think you're answers are full of shit. I want to know where he went." Her eyes ignited with anger.

Celestia's face grew dark. "Well Captain, I would have assumed you had more respect, but I see otherwise. Finally, I say one last time. I do not know where Captain Flash Sentry went. Good day, Captain."

As the princess stormed off, Spitfire stood there. She's hiding something. Spitfire questioned in her mind. She knows where Flash went. If she wont tell me, maybe somepony else will. She thought as she whipped around and headed off to find the Princess of the Night.

The other princess's bed chamber wasn't far from her sister's, but it was a few minutes to get there. Spitfire walked up and knocked softly. A soft response from inside returned. "Enter!" The princess called.

Spitfire shuffled herself in, closing the door being her, before her eyes rested on the princess, who was next to a window, returning her look and bowing politely. "My apologies for interrupting Princess, but I have an urgent question to ask of you." She asked as she closed the distance between her and Luna.

Luna looked kindly upon Spitfire, "Thy apology is accepted, but not needed. Rise, how can I be of service to the great 'Captain of the Wonderbolts'?" she asked as she sat down.

Spitfire stood before speaking. "I wouldn't suppose you would know where Flash Sentry went that would cause harm to him and his squadmates in the way they were?"

Luna's furrowed her brow as she processed the question. "Sorry, Spitfire, I know not the answer to your question. We believe he may have deserted."

"Are you sure?" Spitfire leaned in. "Why would a Captain of the Royal Guard desert, especially after what he has done to achieve that position."

Luna waved a hoof. "I know not why. That is the most logical explanation for now."

"Mhm." Spitfire nodded. "Thank you, your majesty."

"Honored, as always." Luna returned the bow. "Fair travels, Captain."

Spitfire left without another word. Well, she's a better liar than Celestia. She thought to herself as she headed down the corridor with one thought in her mind. Where classified papers would be held. The Captain's office, possibly.

~

Flash painfully opened his eyes to see the world around him. As he moved he felt a horrific pain in his side. He grunted as he looked over to see that a tree had been what stopped his fall.

After a few desperate attempts, Flash finally rises to his hooves and scanned the area to find him in the middle of a forest still.

Then, realization struck Flash with a feeling worse than any bone that may be fractured in his side. He was the only pony in this forest, at least that he could see.

Without thinking of revealing his position, he screamed out the one name that came to mind, "Night Breeze?!" He looked around desperately for his friend as he called out his name, "Night Breeze!"

The only thing that stopped Flash was chatter in the distance, and rustling of a changeling patrol. No doubt looking for me and Night Breeze.

As the patrol got closer, Flash looked for a hiding spot. Luckily, a hole inside the ridge he had fallen from presented itself, and Flash squeezed his way in between the jagged rocks and held his breath as the changelings walked only a few feet from him.

When was finally far enough where Flash couldn't see nor hear them, he crawled out from his hiding spot and gave one look around, before heading out to find his lost friend.

~

"Ugh, where-?" Night Breeze sluggishly lifted his head as he looked around the forest he fallen into. "Am I?"

After quickly surveying the land that surrounded him, he discovered he was still in the hell-hole situation from before. Crap. He frowned as he learned of his position.

Night Breeze assessed his own condition, he had landed between two rocks on a thorn bush, which had broken his fall but given him a few gashes.

He slowly rose to his hooves, with a few jabbing stings of pain from his wounds, and looked for his friend Flash Sentry. When Flash went to walk, he found that the ropes around his hooves had been severed, allowing full mobility. Thank Celestia. It wasn't even a matter of him being his commander, he just wanted to find his life-long friend.

"Flash!" He called out in a, half yell, half whisper tone.

Right as he called out Flash's name, he spotted a changeling walk through some of the rocks near him, and Night Breeze ducked down quickly into the place he had fallen into.

Through a small V-shape in the rock, Night Breeze was able to see the growing number of changelings enter the field of rocks he was in.

All Night Breeze could hear was the slight chatter of the patrol moving across the rocks. Once the patrol had passed, he rose from his hiding spot and clambered over the rocks that surrounded him and made his way to the forest next to him.

"Flash?" He whispered to the forest.

"Night Breeze!?" A voice called out.

"Flash!" Night Breeze yelled back, and quickly, galloped into the forest in search of his friend.

~

"Night Breeze!?" Flash shouted out.

"Flash!" A voice responded.

Was that him? Hope swelled in Flash Sentry's chest. "Night Breeze!"

"Flash! Where are you?" The voice responded.

That is him! Flash felt like the weight of a thousand suns had been lifted off his shoulders. "I'm in the forest!"

After a few seconds Flash saw his friend come through the brush with a slight limp. "Where the hell happened?" He spoke sternly suddenly.

Flash nodded his head towards the cliff they had fallen from. "We got blasted off the ridge."

Night Breeze just nodded. "So what now? We are completely lost."

Flash looked to the sky, specifically the sun. Putting a hoof over his eyes to block out the sun, "Well, we're still on the west side of Equestria right?"

"Yeah." Night Breeze responded. "Why?"

A slight smile formed on Flash's muzzle. "The sun rises in the east, and sets in the west. It's still early, so that means we have to go that-a-way." He said pointed a hoof towards a different part of the forest.

Night Breeze gave a half-smile. "So when do we start this trek?"

Just as Night Breeze said that, Flash looked over his shoulder to see the changeling patrol storming towards them. "Now, and fast, I think we spoke too loud!"

"Right behind ya!" Night Breeze added as he took off behind Flash Sentry.

The two galloped as fast as they could through the rocky forest, the changelings closing fast.

"Keep running Night Breeze, come on!" Flash shouted back to his friend, who was lagging behind.

Night Breeze had started limping a bit from his wounds, still bleeding down his legs. "I can't, those rocks I landed on cut me pretty deep." He grunted through gritted teeth.

Flash Sentry let out a soft sigh but kept running. Looking back he saw the patrol getting closer. "Just keep running! They're gaining on us!" He warned.

Night Breeze looked back, and his eyes went wide. "Flash! What do we do?!" Panic hinting in his voice.

Flash looked ahead for a second. Wait, we're pegasi! He looked back to Night Breeze, "We take to the skies!" As he said this, Night Breeze nodded and opened his wings and followed Flash into the skies.

Sweet Celestia has it never felt greater to spread my wings! Flash thought happily.

As fast as the joy came to him, it ended as he heard the buzz of the changelings behind him. Aw crap! I forgot they had wings too! He thought as the changelings began firing their deadly magic at them.

"Night Breeze, move!" Flash screamed to his already wounded friend, but was two late. As the words came out of Flash's mouth, a blast of magic exploded next to his friend, sending him flying back down into the forest. "NO!"

Anger now burned in Flash's eyes as he whipped around to meet the changeling flying towards him head on.

As he grew closer to his first target, they tried shooting magic blasts at him, which he quickly flew out of the way, and pushed a fist out to meet his first enemy.

Flash barely heard the shattering of bone in the changeling he connected with. He didn't care what happened to the damned thing, he was furious - and he wanted revenge.

One down, five to go. His thought raced through his mind as his forehooves fell upon another changeling, and it dropped to the ground.

Before he could position himself to attack his next opponent, a hollow hoof connected with Flash's side and a changeling hit him.

Flash felt his air leave his lungs as he exhaled from the hit, but regained his composure quickly enough to fling himself at the changeling and wrapping his hooves around it's neck.

Another changeling tried to help, and shot a bolt of magic towards Flash, and he responded by moving his captive in that direction, forcing the bolt into it's body, and before he knew it, the body in his hooves went limp.

Flash quickly dropped the body and scanned the area for his next target. Two changelings in front, and one coming from behind.

To deal with the changeling behind, Flash thrust his back legs behind with as much force as possible, hoping they would connect.

This was confirmed by the splitting sound of bones cracking in the changeling, and Flash then watching it drop to the ground. Easy enough.

Flash looked over to where the body of the changeling fell, and saw that it was a thicket covered in brush and low trees. That is excellent cover. He looked back at the last two changelings, who were closing on him, then back at the thicket. Time to play things on my terms. He thought as he dove down into the thicket, the changelings following him.

The thicket was very dense, as Flash predicted, and he slithered his way around the brush until he came across one of the changelings.

Flash gave a grin as he silently stalked up behind his prey, and wrapped his hooves around the changeling's neck, and pulled him into the brush. As the two struggled for a few moments, the changeling finally gave in, and Flash choked him out. Sleep tight. Flash thought grimly as the changeling slumped in his arms, before quickly twisted it's neck violently.

As Flash looked around for the last changeling, he heard rustling from the trees above, and when he looked up, he saw the last changeling flying away. You better run. A smirk formed over Flash's muzzle, but it quickly deteriorated as Flash's anger dissipated and his thoughts drifted back to his wounded friend.

He looked around. "Night Breeze!" He screamed.

"Over - here." A gasp sounded close by.

Flash bounded over to where the sound was to find his friend had been impaled through his leg by a branch of a small tree. "Sweet Celestia." That was all Flash could say as he stared at his friend before walking over.

"Ugh- Flash, get it out of me." Night Breeze gasped through gritted teeth.

Flash walked over. "Alright, alright, on three." He looked to his friend, who nodded as he put a stick in his mouth. "One, two-" On that, he ripped his friend's leg from the branch.

Night Breeze screamed through closed a closed muzzle as the stick snapped instantly. "Oh Celestia, that hurt!" He grunted to Flash.

"Can you fly?" Flash stared at his wounded friend.

Night Breeze shook his head grimly. "No, I sprained my wing when I fell from the magic blast."

Flash looked at the dirt. Great. "Can you walk?" He asked.

Taking a deep breath, Night Breeze tried to stand, but the hole in his fore leg said otherwise, as he fell back to the ground in agony. "Grr- no! That's not happening anytime soon!"

Flash looked around, then up. Then snapped his focus to Night Breeze. "Do you trust me?"

Night Breeze looked up with confusion marking his face, mixed with pain. "With my life, why?"

"Then just stay relaxed." Flash said as he flapped his wings over to Night Breeze and picked his wounded friend up with a heavy grunt.

"Whoa! Flash!" Night Breeze scratched at Flash with his hooves for a grip as his hooves were lifted off the ground. "Oh this is a bad idea!"

Flash huffed as he used almost all of his remaining energy to summon the strength to life a wounded pegasus. "Well," He said as he gasped. "Any better ideas?"

Night Breeze stayed silent for a moment before responding. "No."

Flash struggled to amass any strength he had to carry his friend to the nearest pony town. Oh sweet Celestia, how long can I hold him. Flash thought through gasps of breath.

Author's Notes:

I felt something in my chest when I wrote the KIA letter from Celestia to Twilight. Anyway, hope you enjoyed these chapters. I wrote this to make it look like I had something important to say in the author's notes. You are now disappointed after reading this.