5 years ago, Prism Bolt's life changed forever. But now, when a injured pony finds his way to Ponyville. Prism and his friends will have to teach him the value of trust.
5 years ago, Prism Bolt's whole life changed. His little brother left home, he got the job of his dreams, and he got married. But one day while flying with his wife Whirlwind, he comes across a Pegasus stallion who is badly hurt. When the stallion shows reluctance to trust Prism, he will need the help of his friends to uncover the past of this stallion and the truth behind why he doesn't trust anyone.
5 years. 5 short, incredible years. It has been 5 years since Prism Bolt, the eldest son of Rainbow Dash and Soarin, had his entire life turned around. 5 years ago, he was attending a Wonderbolt's show in Manehatten, with his parents, his little brother, his brother's friend Pixel Bit (the daughter of Sweetie Belle and Button Mash), and his childhood friend and new marefriend Whirlwind. During the show, a large storm rolled in and threatened the safety of every pony there. That is when it all started. Prism and Whirlwind got to work looking for ponies who were caught in the storm, and getting them to safety. This was when Prism discovered what he truly wanted to do in life. During their search, Prism found a young filly. Alone and trapped in the storm. Prism and Whirlwind got the filly to safety, and the look in the little ones eyes was all Prism needed to see. After the storm, Prism learned that many of the Wonderbolt's had no idea what to do in the situation they faced. Therefore, Prism founded a new team of fliers. The Storm Wardens. This group was similar to the Wonderbolt's, however the Storm Wardens would be specially trained to handle any and all emergencies that Equestria may face. And Prism was at the head of this organization, because ever since he saved that little filly. He learned that this was his passion.
But that's not all that happened 5 years ago. During the storm in Manehatten, Prism's mother Rainbow Dash was injured, and his younger brother Icy Storm blamed him for it. However, with consolation from Icy's friend Pixel Bit, Icy learned that he blamed his brother because he wasn't acting like himself. In fact, Icy didn't really know who he was. He had spent his entire life changing his personality to appeal to others, and he never fond out who HE was. So, after his brother Prism founded the Storm Wardens. Icy Storm decided to travel Equestria, and discover who he truly was. And he was accompanied on this journey by his new marefriend Pixel Bit.
But one more thing happened to Prism 5 years ago. He got married, to the love of his life. To his childhood friend, turned marefriend, turned ex-marefriend, turned best friend, turned marefriend again, Whirlwind. Prism proposed to Whirlwind shortly after asking her to join the Storm Wardens......and pulling off the edge of Cloudsdale and toward the ground. The two of them got married shortly after and the couldn't be happier. Shortly after their wedding, Icy and Pixel set off on their journey and they haven't been back home since. Now, Prism and Whirlwind worked in Cloudsdale. Managing the Storm Wardens, as well as organizing various appearances, seminars and training sessions all over Equestria. In addition the two of them train most of the new recruits. Despite being long and difficult, the two of them love being able to work together on something they both love.
Deapite working in Cloudsdale, the couple decided to live in Ponyville. As it is where they were born and where they grew up. Shortly after they got married they bought a house in town and settle down until the Wardens got going and now that was, their days consisted of waking up and the crack of dawn, flying to Cloudsdale, working till dusk, flying back home, sleeping. Luckaly they now had enough Pegasi working for the Wardens that they could take the weekend off.
5 years had gone by so fast, and yet, it has been the longest 5 years of Prism's life. Everything changed. He created a organization to help protect ponies, his brother left home, and he got married. Times sure had changed, and they were still changing even now. Claire and Illusion got married. As did Red June and Valiant Heart. Starburst and her coltfriend Starfall were thinking about it to. Yes times certainly had changed. But much was still the same. Everyponie's parents still lived in town and they were all doing fine. Prism's parents were still considered to be the best fliers around despite their age. Twilight was taking on more royal responsibilities, Applejack still worked on the farm, and town has stayed pretty much the same. Yet more change was coming, and the only people who were along it's path now. Is non-other then the Pegasus couple flying toward Ponyville after a long days work in Cloudsdale.
Prism was flying southbound, from Cloudsdale to Ponyville. He had just Finished work, and now he and his Wife Whirlwind were on their way home. As they flew along the same route they always did, Prism allowed his mind to wander. As he flew, he thought about everything that has happened. And even more so, how things had changed.
"What's up Priz?"
The sound of his wife's voice brought Prism back to reality. "Oh, sorry hun. My mind just wandered a bit." Whirlwind was quiet for a moment before she gave a Prism a half-smile.
"Prism what's wrong?"
"What makes you think something's wrong." Prism said with an obviously fake smile plastered on his face.
"Prism we have been married for 5 years. I know by now that when your mind wanders your thinking about something. And your the kind of guy that only puts extensive thought into three things. What you want to eat, something very important with work, or something that's bothering you. And since we're not eating and nothing interesting happened at work, something must be bothering you."
Prism chuckled to himself. Whirlwind always knew what was on his mind. In that past, it made them perfect pranking partners. Now, it made them a great couple and co-workers.
"You always could read me like an open book."
"Hey it's not my fault your so easy to read." The two of them giggled and nuzzled each other before continuing the conversation. "So.....what's on your mind?"
"Well, I guess just how much things have changed. I mean look at us. 6 or 7 years ago, our little group did everything together. We prank together, we hung out together, we got in trouble together. Now.......things are different. We're married. So are T and Annie, as well as Claire and Illusion. I bet star will get married here pretty soon. It's just like, as time went on, we grew apart more and more. I mean I see Candy and Del around town from time to time. But we never really get together anymore.
"Star is the new Captain of the Canterlot royal guard, T and Annie are always out somewhere, Claire moved to Canterlot to live with Illusion, June lives with Valiant in the Crystal Empire, and Icy and Pixel are out who knows where. I guess I just miss the good old days you know."
Whirlwind was silent and simply nodded her head. While Prism had a tendency to be rather care-free sometimes........well, most of the time. When he wanted to be serious or sincere. He truly was. Whirlwind game her husband a quick kiss on the cheek and nuzzled closely to him.
"I know baby. I miss them too."
****************
Prism and Whirlwind were coming op on Ponyville. They had some time to kill before it got to late. So they decided to take a scenic route along the edge of the Everfree Forest. The couple was fairly quiet for the duration of their flight. Whirlwind had her eyes set on the clear, starry sky. While Prism's eyes were locked on the ground. His eyes had adjusted to the darkness, and he was watching the ground go by. In the middle of their flight, Prism spotted something. A small shape, bright orange in color. It looked like a pony, or maybe a young dragon. Prism couldn't tell at this distance. It also didn't help that the creature had it's eyes on the ground as well.
"Hey babe, hold up for a sec."
Prism and Whirlwind came to a stop in midair. "What is it Priz?"
"I see something. I think it's a pony but I don't recognize him. He's coming out of the forest."
Whirlwind turned her gaze to see what Prism was looking at. She thought it looked like a pony, but she couldn't make out a race or wither it was a mare or a stallion. She looked back a Prism, who was already moving in the creatures direction. "Come on. Let's see if he needs help." With that, Prism and Whirlwind flew to the creature. As they got closer more things became clear. It was indeed a pony. It was a Pegasus. And a stallion at that. He was about the size of Prism yet slightly taller and slightly skinnier. He was walking with his head down to the ground. His mane was bright red with yellow highlights, and it was draped over his face. As he walked he look like we was off balance.
One close enough Prism called out to the stallion. "Hello." Prism landed in front of the stallion, who stopped as soon as he did. Whirlwind landed next to Prism shortly after he touched down. When the Pegasus didn't answer, Prism spoke up again.
"I was just wondering what you were up to." Prism said obviously unsure of what to say. "It's just that not many ponies go into the Everfree Forest. Especially this late at night."
The mysterious stallion remained silent. Getting worried Prism took a few steps closer and spoke again. "Do you need help?"
With that the stallion looked up, and Prism he part of he face. Most of it was still covered by his mane, but Prism could see his left eye. It was colored golden yellow. The stallion finally spoke. His voice was quiet and weak. And it sounded pained. "Please....." Prism, now filled with worry, allowed his gaze to look over the rest of the stallion. Prism noticed many cuts, scrapes and bruises along the stallions legs and torso. He was holding his right foreleg off the ground as off he was trying to keep his weight off it. Prism also noticed a bird resting on the stallions back. It was a fairly large bird, and it shared the same color scheme as the pony who carried it. However the bird wasn't moving. Prism's gaze snapped back to the stallion when he finished his statement. ".....help.....me." With that the stallion collapsed.
Whirlwind gasped in shock and horror. Prism though sprung into action. His training in the Storm Wardens taking full effect. He rushed to the unconscious stallion's side and first lifted the bird off his back, holding it out to his wife.
"Take this bird to Fluttershy ASAP!" Whirlwinds training began to kick in now as she calmed her self down. She took the bird in her hooves and gave Prism a nod before taking of in the direction they came.
Prism was now hoisting the unknown stallion onto his back. Once he was on, Prism took off as fast as he could toward Ponyville hospital. As he flew, countless questions rushed through his head. "who is this stallion, what happened to him, what was he doing in the forest, why was he here, will he be alright." Prism's thoughts were interrupted when the hospital came into view. He increased his speed and rocketed to the hospital. He just hope it wasn't to late.
It has been a slow night at the Ponyville Urgent Care Clinic. Nurse Blue-Cross was walking through the halls of the clinic making sure everything was I order for the night. Blue Heart was a unicorn mare with a dark blue coat, and a white mane with a two blue streaks going through it, one lighter then the other. Her cutie mark was a blue hospital cross, placed over a white shield. Tonight was a big night for her. It's her first night watching over the clinic during the night without her mother Nurse Red-Heart. Nothing usually happened during the night at the clinic but somepony had to be there just in case.
Since night were usually uneventful Blue Cross decided to do one final check, and then get some shut eye. She had been up almost 20 hours strait and she was tired. She went over her mental checklist as she made her way to the front lobby.
"Ok, all doors except for the front one are locked, I have an exam room and an x-Ray room still unlocked, I have some basic medical supplies out just in case, and only the lights that are needed are currently on. That's everything."
With a proud smile on her face, Blue made her way behind the front desk, where she had a small blow-up mattress, a blanket, and a pillow waiting for her. Setting her keys on the desk, Blue took her place on the mattress and attempted to get some sleep.
Not ten minutes after Blue Cross laid her head down, she was stirred from her sleep by a loud bang. Springing up from her mattress she looked to the front door. Only to see that it had been kicked in by a pony she knew well. Prism Blot stood in the lobby of the clinic with another stallion slung across his back.
"Blue! I need you help with this guy pronto!"
Blue's head was swimming with questions. Why did Prism come I with a stallion on his back? Who was that stallion? Is he really so bad that he couldn't wait till morning? Despite all these questions, Blue's job came first. She ran out from behind the desk and gave Prism instructions.
"Put him in room 1. I'll be there soon." With that both ponies took off down the hall. While Prism stopped in room 1, Blue ran a little further. She stopped in a room further down the hall. There she grabbed everything she thought she might need. Basic medical tools, gloves, a mask for her muzzle, a oxygen mask for the patient, and a roll of bandages. With her supplies in tow, Blue quickly arrived. In room 1 to find that Prism had placed the Pegasus stallion on the bed-table and was waiting for Blue.
"Prism to wait in the lobby."
"What! But I can help. Maybe I can...."
"NO! He looks like he's in bad shape. I can't have anypony getting in the way. Now go wait outside."
Reluctantly Prism nodded and left the room, making his way to the lobby. There he sat on one of the plush chairs and wait desperately for Blue to finish her work.
****************
Prism opened his eyes slowly. He had fallen asleep shortly after retiring to the lobby of the PUCC. Prism sat up and turned his gaze to the clock hanging above the hallway that lead further into the clinic. 6:45am. It was almost midnight when Prism got there, and he slept for early 7 hours while waiting for news on the injured pony he found. Quickly Prism got jumped off the chairs he was resting on, and stretched his limbs. before venturing into the hallway, Prism looked around the lobby. He noticed Whirlwind laying down on some chairs nearby. She was snoring quietly and was drooling a bit. Prism chuckled and then walked though the hall toward exam room 1. He was about to enter when a quiet feminine voice stopped him.
"Not yet Prism. Our patient is still sleeping." Blue Cross was sitting on a chair nearby. there was blanket on the floor near the chair and she was levitating a mug of coffee in front of her.
"Why not? I need to see if he's ok."
"He is ok, trust me. Sure he was little banged up but nothing that I couldn't fix."
"I guess I shouldn't be doubting your skills as a nurse now should I?"
"Trust me, This is nothing compared to what I had to do in order to fix you up. I mean how do you fracture a rib just by flying."
"G-force, that's how."
"How can you fly fast enough to generate enough G-force to actually break...."
Blue's sentences was cut short by a soft moan coming from the the exam room. the two ponies immediately ceased their conversation and entered the room. They were greeted with the sight off a bright orange Pegasus moaning and pressing his hooves to his temple. once he noticed he had company he spoke.
"Where am I? What happened?"
"So cliche." Prism's comment was met by a firm hoof to his side. Courtesy of Blue Cross.
"Please ignore Prism. My name is Blue Cross. What's yours?"
The stallion thought for a bit before answering. "Flare Blitz. My name is Flare Blitz."
"Well mister Blitz, do you remember anything from last night?"
"I remember walking through the Everfree forest. I can't remember why but I was. Then I saw......something and nothing after that. What happened? And why can't I remember anything?"
"You were pretty beat up when Prism brought you here."
Flare glanced at Prism then turned his attention back to Blue. "How bad was I?"
"Well," Blue said while levitating a clipboard up to her face. "You had 1 broken rib and two others were fractured, your right foreleg was dislocated, you had lots of cuts and scrapes all over your body, your right wing is sprained, and your left with is broken. That means no flying till your better."
Flare look at Blue with expressions that looked to be a mix of disappointment frustration.
"Well then what am I supposed to do then. I'm can't fly and I'm stuck in some town I don't even know. I live in Cloudsdale, I can't take a train to Cloudsdale."
Prism spoke up for the first time since he entered. "I think someone in town has a hot air balloon. I bet you could borrow it and get home."
"Two things. First, I don't do balloons. I just feel.....uneasy about them. Second, even if I got home, I would confined to my house. Pegasi have to fly almost everywhere in Cloudsdale since the city is on multiple clouds."
Prism felt stupid for not thinking of that since he spent most of his time in Cloudsdale for work. "Oh right.....sorry."
Flare just groaned and took this moment of silence to examine his room more thoroughly. As he looked around his expression changed to one of confusion. "Where's my bird?"
Blue seemed confused now. "I'm sorry, what bird?"
"My bird. My bird that never leaves my side."
"I'm sorry you didn't have a bird with you when you came in."
Flare now look angry. So angry it was like he was ready to commit murder. "What!" Flare turned and pointed at Prism. "You, what did you do to my bird!"
"What are you talking about?"
Flare was furious now. He reached out with his left hoof (Which was nearest to Prism). "You listen to me hot-shot. That bird hasn't left my side since I got him. I know for a fact that he was with me in the forest. You were the one that brought me here so you must have done something. Now I'm going to ask you again, Where the buck is my bird."
Prism was trying to formulate an answer. Luckily his wife beat him to it. "I know where your bird is." All eyes shifted to Whirlwind who was standing in the doorway to the exam room. Flare looked at her with that upset expression, but he spoke in a softer tone.
"What. What did you say."
"I know where your bird is. It was hurt pretty bad as well so I brought it over to a friend who knows everything about animals. She'll take care of it I promise. Now, can you please let my husband go?"
Flare thought for a bit before speaking. "Fine, but mark my words. If anything happens to Nova, somepony's gonna pay." With that Flare released Prism, who walked over to thank his wife.
"Thanks babe, I completely forgot about the bird."
"I know, you tend to forget things when you get caught up in the heat of the moment."
Flare turned to speak with Blue, who was currently looking over his x-rays.
"So, what do I do know?"
"Well, your injuries shouldn't take to long to heal. Your wing and your rib will take the longest. Other then that you should be fine. I'm going to go ahead and keep you here one more night just to be safe. If your alright after that, then we'll get you situated in town. Sound good to you."
"Fine." Flare groaned. "But Nova should be fine by now. I want him here as soon and physically possible."
"Of course."
With that said, Prism and Whirlwind decided it was time to leave. It was just after 7am. It was Saturday so the couple had work off. As they walked to the front door of the Clinic they saw another mare walk in. She was an older mare, with a snow white coat and dark red mane. Prism and Whirlwind recognized" her as the mother of the other nurse in the Clinic.
"Oh, Prism Bolt and Whirlwind? Please don't tell me Prism got hurt on the job again. I may have to start charging you more every time you come to the Clinic."
"Oh no Nurse Red Heart." Prism spoke shaking his head. "I'm fine."
"Well then what brings you here. Checking up on Blue for me?"
Prism started trotting to the door with his wife close behind. "Not exactly." Almost the second the two pegasi stepped out the door they heard yelling from inside the clinic.
"I told you I feel fine I don't need a physical. Get that glove off your hoof."
"Please mister Blitz, It standard procedure for new patients. We need a physical before we can enter you into the system."
"If I NEED a physical at least wait till a stallion doctor gets here."
A new, slightly less feminine voice joined the conversation.
"We don't currently have any stallion doctors, but perhaps I can help."
"Alright Blue mane, put that glove back on and lets get this over with."
Whirlwind turned to Prism and spoke. "Think he'll be alright?"
"With both Red Heart and Blue Cross there?"
As they walked away they heard more yelling from the clinic.
"Ok, I thinks that's enough girl.....wait what are doing. A stephiscope? Oh no I don't do those. My heart beat's fine just go and put that thing.......*AHHHHH* sweet Celestia that bucking thing if really bucking cold!"
I was a bright beautiful Saturday morning in Ponyville. Prism walked to the Ponyville Clinic on the lovely cloudless day. Today was the day Flare Blitz got released from the Clinic and Prism volunteered to help him get settled in since he couldn't fly until his wing healed. Upon arriving at the Clinic Prism walked in so he could find Flare. As Prism entered the Clinic Blue Cross was sitting at the front desk ready to greet him.
"Hello Prism. What brings you here?"
"I'm just here to get Flare."
"Oh that's right, your going to show him around town"
"Yup, so where is he? I bet he's eager to get out of......."
Before Prism could finish his thought he was nearly thrown to the ground as Flare ran up to him. He seemed frantic and even a bit panicked.
"Oh thank Celestia your finally here. You have no idea what I've been through."
After a few moments a familiar voice came from the hall where Flare had come from a minuet earlier. "Awwww, leaving so soon dear?" Nurse Red Heart stood in the hall looking out at the two stallions.
Before Prism could react Flare was frantically pulling him out the door. "Please you have to get me out of here, these mares are insane."
Prism turned to Red Heart. "What did you two do to him?"
"We'll tell you later dear." Red Heart said while trying to stifle a laugh.
Prism was still very confused but nonetheless he had things to do. So he lead Flare outside the clinic and the two stallions began walking down the roads of Ponyville. They walked for a few minutes in silence but Prism couldn't take it anymore.
"Soooooo, how was it in the Clinic?"
"Ok buddy, before we go any further lets get one thing straight. If I say I don't to talk about something. I won't, no matter what. With that said, you will never mention that hell hole of a hospital ever again."
"Ok whatever you say. So where are you from? what do you do?"
"I don't want to talk about it."
"Is there anything you do want to talk about?"
"I want to talk about where we're going."
By this time Prism and Flare were outside Ponyville, and they were approaching a small cottage on the edge of the Everfree Forest. It was a relatively small place with many beautiful flowers and countless small critters running around. As the stallions walked up to the door, Prism explained where they were.
"Well Flare, I remembered how much your bird seemed to mean to you, so thought you would like to see it."
"Wait you mean...."
"Yes, your bird is here."
With that Prism knocked on the front door.A few seconds the door opened to reveal a pale coated unicorn with a light green mane and green flower for a cutie mark.
"Annie, what are you doing here?"
Annie giggled "Prism you know I can't resist helping my mom out. She sent me a letter yesterday asking if I could help her out with an injured animal, so I rushed down as soon as I could."
"Well that's nice. So where is your mom?" Prism was interrupted as Flare jumped up to Annie. He was frantically and excited. "Where is my bird?"
Calmly Annie pointed into the main room. "She's in there." Flare ran into the living room of Fluttershy's home. Nearly knocking Annie over in the process. When he reached the main room he saywa light yellow Pegasus mare with a long pink mane sitting on the couch. There was a brightly colored bird perched on the arm of the chair and the two of them seemed to be having a conversation. That is before Flare interrupted them.
"Nova!"
The bright red and orange bird looked up. Only to fly over to flare at blinding speeds, and perch it's self on him back.
"Aw Nova I missed you so much. You not hurt to bad right?"
Nova let out a loud squawk that only Flare and Fluttershy seemed to understand.
"Oh, that's a huge relief. A sprained wing isn't as bad a broken one." Flare told Nova, motioning toward his bandaged wing. "Ms.....Fluttershy, was it? I can't thank you enough for helping out Nova. It really means a lot to me."
"Oh it was problem at all. I love helping animals, and ever since Princess Celestia came to town with her pet Phoenix, I didn't think I would ever get to meet another."
"Well, for what it's worth. Thank you."
"Of course. Feel free to bring to me if you ever need anymore help."
"Ya, don't push your luck." Flare expression shifted from relived and happy to blank and emotionless as he turned and walked out the front door. As Fluttershy's timid nature returned to her, and Annie went to comfort her mother, Prism took off after Flare.
Prism found Flare not far down the road, with Nova still perched on him back. With a quick flap of his wings, Prism bolted to Flare with blinding speed. Catching him in seconds.
"What the buck was that!"
Flare look at him slightly confused. "What?"
"Fluttershy just did you a huge favor out of the goodness of her heart and give her a simple 'thank you' and stormed off. What kind of pony does that?"
"Well excuse me for not trusting easily."
"Well, you seem to trust me just fine."
"Well I trust you for two reasons and two reasons only. One, you probably saved my life by getting me to the hospital. Two, your the only one willing to help me get settled in this town until my wing heals."
Prism was shocked. The only reason Flare was showing any trust in him was because it benefited himself? Prism never thought he would meet a pony who thought like that. Being raised by his mother he was always told that trust is one of the most valuable things you could have, and it is one of the hardest things to achieve.
Flare brought Prism back to reality with a long sigh. "Look buddy, I didn't mean any disrespect. Really I didn't. I just don't trust very easy and I really enjoy being on my own for the most part. Right now I just want to get settled so I can spend some quality time with Nova."
"Fine. There's a hotel just outside of town, let's go get you settled in."
****************
Prism spent the start of the afternoon helping out Flare. Once Flare was checked into the hotel, Prism said goodbye and went back into town. as he was walking he heard someone calling his name. It was a mares voice. Kind of high pitched. He could hear the energy in her voice. And she didn't stop screaming. Prism knew exactly who said mare was. As Prism turned around and walked up to Sugar Cube Corner, he saw exactly who he thought he would see. Cotton Candy, a long time friend of Prism was standing at the door waving to him.
Once Prism was close enough he called out to Candy."Hey there Candy. You need something?"
"Yup. Windy, Del, Annie, and T are all here. You want to come chat?"
"Sure, that's sounds great."
Candy led Prism into Sugar Cube Corner, and toward a booth that was filled his some of his best friends. As he sat down next to his wife, Candy gave a quick kiss to her coltfriend Del and trotted off the kitchen. Prism turned his attention to Annie and T before starting a conversation.
"Hey Annie I forgot to ask this morning, When did you and T get back into town. Last I heard you were up in Trottingham."
"Well we were, but I got that letter from my mom asking for help. So T and I got right on a train and came down as soon as we could."
"Well that's nice. What about you T? What have you been up to?"
"Just spending time with family. It's nice to come back home every now again. Although, considering how my mom acted when I got back. I may have to visit more often."
"What did your mom do."
"She got really clingy. She hugged me and didn't let go for about twenty minutes. She nearly bit my dad, and after he pried her off, she tried to hit him with a chair."
everything fell silent. as the group of friends looked at T in awe.
"Dude." Whirlwind said breaking the silence. "I knew your mom can be a drama queen but.......wow."
"Yeah." T said nodding his head slowly.
Silence once again fell on the group until Candy broke it by dropping a tray of cupcakes on the table with a loud crash.
"HOLY BUCKING CELESTIA!" Prism shouted. "Candy why did you do that! you know I'm easily startled!"
"Sorry Bolty, I just thought it was to quiet when I came over. So what were we talking about"
"T's mom" Prism replied as he rubbed his temple with his hoof as he tried to calm his racing heart.
"Oh ya that's a funny story, but I've heard it already. So Bolty, what have you been up to?"
"I spent this morning with a Pegasus I met last night."
"Oh is that who was with you when you came to my mom's this morning?" Annie asked
Prism nodded his head, and Annie continued. "That guy is a jerk. How do you know him?"
"Well you see.." Whirlwind took the liberty of recounting what happened to Prism and herself the night before. From how they found Flare, to how they brought him the clinic. It took Whirlwind a good ten minutes to finish the story. And she spared no details. Once she finished everyone was quiet. However Candy soon broke the silence......again.
"You mean to tell me that there is a new pony in town?"
"yup" Prism said nonchalantly.
"And he's hurt and has to stay in town for a while?"
"mm-hmm" Whirlwind replied.
"And he probably has no friends?"
"Pretty much." Prism said nodding his head.
"WHY DIDN'T ANYPONY TELL ME!"
"Geez Candy, whats the big deal?"
"Ya'll know just what the deal is." Del said. speaking for the first time since Prism arrived.
"The big deal," Candy continued "Is that there is a pony in town with no friends. I am the daughter of Pinkie Pie. And since the torch has been passed, I will do whatever I can to befriend this stallion."
"The torch hasn't actually been passed yet Candy." Pinkie Pie sang from the kitchen.
"Mom don't ruin the moment."
"Sorry Candy, it's already done."
"*hmmph* Well no matter. I Cotton Candy, eldest daughter of Pinkamena Dian Pie. Shall not rest until the stallion known as..............what's his name?" Candy asked Prism.
"Flare Blitz."
"Until the stallion known as Flare Blitz has at least one friend in Ponyville."
"And how do you plan on doing that?" Prism asked genuinely curious.
"I have no idea." Candy replied excitedly.
T leaned over and whispered into Del's ear. "This should be good."
After Flare got settled in his hotel he decided to get some rest. The faster the days past, the faster he could go home. He awoke the next morning to sunshine, singing birds, and knocking. Wait, knocking? KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK. Somepony was frantically hammering their hoof on Flares door. Flare's pet phoenix Nova flew to the door, looked through the peep hole, and flew back to his perch next to Flares bed.
"Nova is it Prism?"
Nova screeched loudly and nodded his head. Flare got up from bed, walked to the door, and opened it.
"What time is it?"
"Ummmm, half past ten."
"Erg, it's to bucking early. What are doing here?"
"Well i just thought you might like me to show you around town before you completely shut me out. Just in case you need to go someplace."
"Fine. I guess that's not a bad idea."
Flare looked back into his room and gave a sharp whistle. Afterward Nova flew over and perched himself on Flares back. With his companion in tow, Flare followed Prism outside and into town. As they walked, Flare only thought of one thing. "A tour through the town? This is going to be real bucking rich.
As the two pegasi walked through town, Flare got a good idea of where things were. He always was good at remembering directions. He saw town hall, the Ponyville Clinic, The Carousel Boutique, Princess Twilight's castle, And around noon they arrived at their final destination, Sugar Cube Corner.
"What is this place?" Flare asked as he looked over the gingerbread looking structure.
"This my friend is Sugar Cube Corner. Home of the tastiest treats in all of Equestria."
Flare smirked and walked past Prism up to the front doors of the candy store. "I'll be the judge of that."
Prism and Flare walked into the large candy store and trotted up to the front desk.
"Hello Mr.Pierce, How are you doing today?"
"Ahhh Prism. Good to see you again. Well I can't say I enjoy getting older then I already am but things are going well."
"Good to here. Anyway, I'm showing Flare here around town and I thought he might like a snack."
Before Pokey Pierce could say anything, Candy ran downstairs and right up to Flare.
"*GASP* You must be the new pony in town. My name is Cotton Candy. My mom and dad run Sugar Cube Corner."
"No offense ms. but i would like to try one of your treats so I can go home and nap."
"Say no more." Candy then began pulling Flare to a nearby booth and Prism followed suite.
"MOOOOM!" Candy yelled toward the kitchen. "I NEED THREE OF YOUR BEST CUPCAKES ON THE DOUBLE!"
Pinkie Pie trotted out from the kitchen with a try on her back. The try held three cupcakes. "Already done Candy."
"Thanks mom."
Flare turned his attention to Prism for a moment. "These people are weird."
"Yup they are. But you get used to it."
"Well, Go one try one." Pinkie was hardly able to contain he excitement. "It's a new recipe."
Prism and Candy each grabbed a cupcake and started eating. Their reactions were the same.
"MMMMMMM Oh sweet Celestia these are delicious mom."
"Ms. Pie, no matter what you do you always seem to surprise me."
Flare looked grabbed his cupcake and looked it over. "Oh come on. There is no way these can be THAT good."
Nova hopped off his back and took a small bite of the cupcake. Nova then extended his wings and floated to the floor with a look of bliss and satisfaction on his beak. Flare just looked at Nova in shock.
"No way. It's not possible." He took a quick bite and instantly his face lost all emotion and he fell into a trance. A trance in which he lost all feeling in his mouth save the delectable taste of the sugary treat he just consumed. "Wow." was all Flare could say.
"*giggle* I see you enjoy my cupcakes as well." Pinkie smirked
"I told you they were the best." Prism stated with a sly smile on his muzzle.
Flare didn't respond since he was trapped in his own little world of sweet tasty bliss. "Oh my goodness this is amazing. You know maybe the people here aren't so bad. Their actually pretty nice. Maybe I could even consider Prism a friend." Flare train of thought came to a sudden halt due to his previous thought. "WHAT? Nononono I can't do that. Not everything that has happened. I can't do that to me, or to them. Flare quickly rose from his chair and started toward the door.
"Well thanks for the treats Ms......Pie was it? Prism thanks for the tour. It was nice meeting you candy. But I have to head back to my hotel."
Prism was surprised. He thought he was finally getting through to Flare. "What? Why?"
"It's my business, not yours." Flare gave a sharp whistle and Nova flew to his back before Flare took off down the road at full gallop.
Prism watched with dismay as the stallion ran further and further away. "Dang it. I thought we were getting through to him."
Candy came up behind with similar feelings. "Ya. You were right Bolty, he is a tough one."
"So, what now? Do we just give up?"
"No Prism. No we don't. You see I may have failed, but their is one pony who can't possibly fail." Candy concluded my looking back to her mother who was walking back into the kitchen.
A wide grin spread across Prism's face. "Candy, you are a genius."
Flare Blitz sat in his hotel room casually flipping through the local newspaper. It was the first day since he got to Ponyville that Prism hasn't come by. Though Flare considered that a blessing, seeing as how he didn't seem to click with Prism, or the town as a whole for that matter. All Flare wanted was to go home, back to Cloudsdale. As he let his mind wander, boredom set in. He was sitting in a town he didn't like, reading the newspaper. He didn't even like the newspaper.
No longer able to bare sitting around, Flare decided to do something productive. He decided he would pay a visit to the clinic, just to get his injury's checked out. Nothing had really bothered him accept for his wing, and even that really just itched. Flare got up and started toward the door.
"I'll be back in a little bit Nova. Keep the place safe till get back, alright?" Nova simply let out a load *squak* and remained on his perch on the bed frame.
Flare trotted down the street in the direction of the ponyville clinic. He noticed a few ponies giving him sideways glances but he ignored them. After a few minuets he arrived at the clinic and as soon as he walked in, he remembered why he had waited this long to come back. A white and blue unicorn mare sat behind the front desk but quickly jumped up at the sight of Flare.
"Oh my goodness Flare, you're back."
"Hello umm....Blue Cross right?"
"Yup, that's right. So what brings you back here?"
"I just thought I'd get myself checked out. You know make sure things are healing properly."
"Got it, follow me and we'll get you taken care of."
"You know if I hadn't been here before, I would have questioned just how murderous that sounds."
"*giggle* Oh Flare, if I wanted to kill you at the clinic I wouldn't do it during a check up."
"And when would you do it?" Flare asked as he walked slightly slower to put some distance between him and the nurse. But before she could answer he hears another familiar voice behind him.
"Well dear, we could have taken you off oxygen when you first got here. That could have put you down. Though if it were me? I would just put a scalpel to your throat while we worked on you before.
Flare looked past the mare toward the front door, and weighed his chances of escape. Seeing as how he probably had about 20% chance of making it to the door. He decided to just go with it. Though there was a question he had on his mind, that one of the mares might know the answer to.
"Hey Blue Cross?"
"Just call me Blue."
"Ok Blue, do you happen to know where Prism is?"
"Oh, him and Whirlwind got called back to work early. Something about the Fillydelphia Fire Department's pegasi needed better rain cloud training or something like that. Guess the Storm Wardens don't rest am I right?"
Flare was caught off guard by her last comment though. "Wait....Prism works for the Wardens?"
"Of course, he did found them after all."
Flare just looked off into space as he was lead into a nearby exam room. "*The wardens....why didn't he tell me?*"
****************
Prism Bolt was sitting in his office at the Storm Wardens HQ. He and his wife just finished up training the Fillydelphia Fire Department, and now she had to get back to her other responsibilities. Leaving Prism alone with a small stack of paperwork. Although he did notice a latter on top of the pile of official documents. It was addressed to him at work. He opened it and began reading
"Dear Bolty
I just wanted to let you know that our secret weapon is ready. We have everything planned for tonight, and it should go off without a hitch. The event is set to start tonight at 10:30pm sharp. So try to not be late this time. We need you to escort the guest of honor after all. Well anyways, I'm rambling now. Just be ready cuz it will be a night to remember.
See you tonight, Candy"
Prism let out a relaxed 'sigh'. It was good to have that weight lifted off his shoulders. With that out of the way, he turned his attention to his stack of paperwork. It was pretty standard stuff. Information about each workers pay, city safety details, planned events for the future, training seminars. This was really Prism's least favorite part of the job. When he founded the Wardens, he was hoping to be out on the front lines more often.
Prism had just about gone through his papers when somepony gave three sharp knocks on his door, entered and gave a quick salute. She was a messenger for the compound, and sure enough she was here to do her job.
Prism spoke to the mare who was still saluting perfectly. "Relax cadet, what is it you need."
"Captain Bolt, sorry to interrupt but you have a visitor."
"A visitor?" Prism asked turning back to his papers. "Who is it?"
"Family Bro." Prism was answered not by the cadet, but by a colt from the sound of it. Not to much older then the messenger. But his voice allowed Prism to place it's owner instantly.
As Prism looked up his suspicions were proved correct, but he still couldn't believe what he saw. Standing in the doorway was a pegasus stallion. He was a few years younger then Prism, and sported a light blue coat, and a two-tone dark blue mane and tail. His cutie mark resembled freezing wind.
"Icy?!"
"What is it Prism? Wasn't expecting to see your little brother so soon?"
Prism quickly jumped up and gave his little brother a big hug. "Awww man Icy it's been way to long. Where have you been? What have you been up to? I've got so many questions for you."
"I bet you do bro, but any chance we could get some grub. I am ridiculously hungry right now."
"Course, lets head down to the mess hall, we can talk there."
As the brothers left the office Prism gave a quick thanks and salute to the compound messenger, which she returned and went along with the rest of her deliveries.
****************
Prism and his little brother Icy were sitting in the Storm Warden's mess hall catching up with one another. They had been talking for about a half-hour, and their discussion was about to die down.
"Man Icy you sure have had an eventful five years haven't you?"
"Ya it was great. Five years with Pixel, exploring Equestria. From the Crystal Empire, to Trottingham and everywhere in between. It's been fun."
"So, did you find out who you really are? Or are you still looking?"
"Oh no, i found it. And it's kind of weird, it was in front of me all along."
Prism gives his brother a confused look. "What do you mean?"
"Well, after spending so long with Pixel I realized something. That as long as I'm with her, I know who I am."
Prism thought this over for a few moments before he realized something. "Icy, are saying what I think your saying?"
"If your thinking that the reason I'm back is because we wanted to have our wedding in Ponyville, then you would be correct."
"Wait what! Your getting married?"
"Ya...what did you think I was saying?"
"I though maybe you two went and 'did it' and that's what set you strait."
"No no no, come on Priz. Not every guy dreams of getting some flank 24/7."
"Hey, I'm already married. I don't need to think like that anymore."
"I bet not."
"So, another question. Where is Pixel if your here in Cloudsdale?"
"Well........"
(Meanwhile in Ponyville)
A brightly colored train pulled into the station in Ponyville. The doors opened and ponies began their journeys. Some were boarding, others were leaving. One of the many ponies who exited the train was a unicorn mare with a peach coat, an orange and pink mane and tail, and an 8-bit pink heart for a cutie mark. She began trotting through the quiet town, already knowing exactly where she was going. As she rounded another corner, her target came into view, Sugar Cube Corner. She quickly entered the establishment and , to her luck, noticed five young-ish ponies seated at a table. She recognized them instantly as Echo, Api, Cloudy, Sugar Rush, and Nighty. She walked up the table, it's patrons still oblivious to her presence.
"Come on guys let's go do something." Sugar Rush complained. "We have done nothing but sit here and chat for the past week. I want excitement."
"I agree with Sugar, come on y'all lets go." Api said getting ready to leave, only to be stopped by Nighty.
"Sit down Api, there is nothing for us to do. Lets face it we have exhausted every conceivable thing there is to do in Ponyville. Unless something really crazy happens, we can't do anything."
"Would an old friend coming home count as crazy?" Everyone turned to see their new guest, and they collectively gave the same response.
"PIXEL!!!"
"In the flesh. So i take it you guys were bored without me?" Rather then a response, she was tackled to the floor by her five friends, as they bombarded her with questions.
"Pixel, it is so good to see you."
"Where have you been?"
"Where's Icy?"
"What are you doing here?"
Pixel finally dug herself out from beneath her friends so she could speak. "Ok guys, i get it, you missed me. As for the other questions, Icy is in Cloudsdale visiting his brother, so I came back home ahead of him. As for why I'm back, well.....how do i put this?" She pondered by pressing her hoof to her chin.
"Just say it like it is." Cloudy advised from her place next to Sugar.
"Alright then." Pixel took a big breath before unavailing her news. "I'm getting married!"
All was silent, and everyone just stared at Pixel with no defining emotion.
"Ok then," Pixel thought to herself. "Not the reaction I was expecting."