The Steel-Hearted Pegasus

        It was amazing to see how quickly a few days can pass over your head. But when important upcoming events are right around the corner, you tend to tune out the days in between. This could truly be said for Fluttershy, who was getting ready for the Grand Galloping Gala tonight. Normally this would the same event as every year, where she and her friends would got to the Gala and hang out all night. But for the yellow Pegasus, this time was going to be different. For this year, her closest friend, Caster Forge, had asked her to go with him as his date. It was something she never would’ve expected him, or really any stallion in general, to ask her. Fluttershy was surprised at first but she agreed to it none the less. After all, it will be a great way to spend time with the pony she had come to love. She was starting to blush just thinking about it.

        Remembering that she still needed to prepare for the Gala, the mare went back to getting dressed and applying what little make up she used. While Fluttershy did that, she also thought of certain events that had happened in the last few days. Applejack had apparently been asked to act as a personal chef for the Wonderbolts at the Gala tonight. The farm mare, along with everybody else, were surprised by the news but they were proud for Applejack to be able to serve the greatest Pegasus’ in Equestria. In other Wonderbolts related news, Rainbow Dash had been personally invited to their VIP table. Needless to say, the cyan Pegasus has been talking about it nonstop for the past few days.

        While Fluttershy was of course happy for her friends, she couldn’t help but feel a little suspicious. A few days ago, the pink haired pony had read Caster’s personal mind journal for the sake of getting to know him better. She did of course but she also stumbled across something else as well. In a recent handwritten note, Fluttershy read mentions of something that the stallion had been planning for a while. It was something that he called, 'The Perfect Night Ever'. She knew that it probably wasn’t awful, the mare has known him too long to think he would do something like that. Yet she was still curious as to what he was up to and if these recent had something to do with him. But Fluttershy brushed it off for now, wanting only to focus on what was soon to come.

        Finishing up on her thoughts, the yellow Pegasus looked back at herself in the dresser mirror in her bedroom. She had to admit that even she could look good when she wanted to be. Fluttershy wore her usual Grand Galloping Gala outfit, which always made her seem like the essence of spring itself. Along with that she put a touch of pink blush on her cheeks that was faint but easy to notice. Her eyelashes were slightly curled to give her eyes a nice flutter. And lastly, the mare wore a shade of light blue mascara on her eyelids. Normally Fluttershy was a bit nervous about wearing make-up of any kind, but over the years Rarity had convinced her to try just a little touching up. And yellow pony could not argue with the results. It was always only a little make up, but it worked just fine for her.

        After taking a few minutes to check her appearance, Fluttershy heard a knock at the front door. Knowing who it most likely was, she giddily went out of her room and down the stairs to greet her visitor. When the Pegasus mare opened the door she was met with the sight of her date, Caster Forge. Much like herself, the stallion was groomed and well dressed for their night out, wearing a suit that Rarity had specially made for him. It was a very interesting design to say the least, being English in manner with a modern twist. Rarity started off with a basic cotton black coat and gave it an emerald trim. Beneath the jacket laid a beige tweed with an emerald green tie. A simple long sleeved silk white shirt covered the inner layer of the suit, providing comfort and mobility. And to top it all off, the fashionista added a pair of cufflinks that resembled Caster’s cutie mark. All in all the suit looked very dapper on him. His remained the same style as always, it being the most comfortable for him.

        Eventually, Fluttershy was brought out of her staring when she realized that neither of them had said a word for a while. So she decided to speak up.

        “Hello Caster, nice to see you,” the mare said, still a bit nervous.

        “Good evening Fluttershy, it’s good to see you too,” Caster said, giving a confident smile. “I must say you certainly look ravishing tonight.”

        “Oh well thank you,” she said, feeling her cheeks get warm. “You look quite handsome yourself.”

        “Thanks, I really thought this suit would be nice,” the stallion said, brushing a bit of lint off his shoulder. “So you ready to get going?”

        “Indeed,” Fluttershy said, closing the door behind her and locking it.

        As they were ready to head out, Caster held out a hoof for her to take hold of. She gladly accepted it and the two of walked merrily into town, hoof in hoof.

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        The setting sun created a beautiful orange glow over Ponyville, giving it a calming and warm ambiance. Calming and warm was also a way to describe how Caster and Fluttershy felt as they walked into town. The two ponies were making their way over to the Carousel Boutique, where they and their friends had planned to meet up. Both the mare and the stallion felt comfortable being in each other’s presence. Yet they were also nervous being close to the one they loved. Neither of them has yet been able to express how they truly felt about the other yet. But perhaps this night at the Gala would be just what they needed to give their hearts a little push.

        They eventually came across Carousel Boutique where they immediately went inside to find all of their friends, dressed up and talking amongst each other. Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Applejack were all wearing their usual Gala outfits as well. Jack Reels and Hotpop were there as well, wearing a tuxedo with a black bowtie and a dark blue V-neck dress, which defined the unicorn’s pregnant belly very well. Spike wore his tuxedo, composed of a black coat, a white dress shirt, and his bowtie was replaced with the one covered in gems that Rarity gave him years ago. One thing that Fluttershy noticed was that Caramel, Applejack’s farmhoof, was also in attendance, wearing a suit almost similar to Spike’s. Caster also saw this and went over to the stallion.

        “Hey Caramel, good to see,” the light brown pony said, grabbing his attention.

        “Yo Cast, nice to see you too,” Caramel said, sharing a quick hoof bump with his friend.

        “So what are you doing here, were you invited to the Gala as well?” he asked.

        “Well sorta. Applejack said that she needed help serving food to the Wonderbolts. So she asked me to be her assistant chef for tonight,” the earth pony said.

        “That’s great, now you get to spend time with your special somepony,” Caster said, snickering.

        “Hey come on man, you know I still haven’t told her yet. I’m still waiting for the right opportunity,” Caramel said, starting to blush.

        “Relax buddy, I’m just teasing you. You do what you have to do, I won’t interfere,” the blacksmith said, thinking of his plan already in motion.

        “So what about you? Have you told Fluttershy yet how you feel?” the farmhoof asked, reflecting the subject.

        “Soon Caramel, very soon,” the Pegasus said, looking back at Fluttershy who was talking with her friends.

        The two stallions kept talking for a while before they were approached by a certain purple scaled dragon. Spike had showed up wanting to chit chat with his friends. He had certainly grown taller than before as well as his wings, which allowed him to start training with Rainbow Dash.

        “Hey Spike, what’s up?” Caster said, smiling at his dragon friend.

        “Not much, just getting ready to spend tonight with the greatest mare I know,” Spike said, in a lightly deeper, charming voice.

        “Oh yeah that’s right, I heard that Rarity accepted your offer of going with you to the Gala,” Caramel said, proud of his friend. “Good for you Spike, Ms. Rarity deserves somepony special tonight unlike that horrible Blueblood you mentioned.”

        “If I ever see him, he’ll get his just desserts,” the dragon said, growling at remembering him.

        “Don’t worry Spike, I’m sure he’ll get what he deserves one day,” the light brown stallion said, trying to calm him down. “I’m pretty sure he has already, twice.”

        The three of them laughed remembering how the prince got covered in icing. Also when Caster had stood up to him when he participated in that completion when they were foals. It made them forget about him and move on to other topics. As the conversations for everyone continued on, the day started to grow later and they all realized it was time to get moving.

        “All right everypony, if you’ll all step outside I’ve got an apple and a spell ready to take us to the Gala,” Twilight said, holding up an apple.

        “Actually Twilight that will not be necessary,” Caster said, causing everyone to turn toward him.

        “What are you talking about Caster, how else are we supposed to get to the Gala?” Fluttershy inquired, walking up to him.

        Moving his sleeve, the stallion looked at his wrist watch. “Our transportation should be here, right, about.”

        There was a soft knock at the door and Caster went to see who it was. Opening it he saw a unicorn stallion with white fur, a black mane and a thin mustache, green eyes, and a crimson red vest with yellow buttons.

        “Mr. Caster Forge I presume?” the unicorn asked, in a Prench accent.

        “Indeed I am,” he answered, politely.

        “Your carriage awaits you and your friend’s ,Sir,” the white pony said, moving aside to let everyone out.

        Caster and his associates went outside only to be stunned, Caster excluded, by the sight before them. Right in front of the boutique was a large white carriage, with gold trimming covering it. It had a few circular windows on the sides and an oval shaped one in the back. In front of the carriage stood four Royal Pegasus Guards, strapped to their ride. Without a doubt, Caster's friends were all surprised.

        “Whoa! Where in the hay did this come from?” Rainbow Dash asked, amazed beyond words.

        “You can thank me for that Dash,” Caster said, turning all eyes to him.

        “You did this!?” Rarity said, almost unable to believe what they all heard.

        “Indubitably,” the stallion said, smiling. “It cost me quite a few bits but I say it was worth it.”

        “You didn’t have to do this for us Cast,” Jack said, to his brother. “Twilight was going to give us all a ride anyway.”

        “I know and that’s kind of the reason why I did this,” Caster said. “I knew that Twilight could only make carriages out of apples and I didn’t think it was going to be big enough with some new additions like me, you, and Hotpop. Plus, this is the first time the three of us have ever been to the Gala and with so many friends no less. So I wanted to make this night as special as possible for us and all of our friends.”

        Everyone there was surprised to hear him say that. But even so they all appreciated everything he went through for all of them. So with that, Jack and Hotpop went up to the blacksmith and gave him a heartwarming hug.

        “What did I do to deserve a generous brother like you?” the orange Pegasus said, smiling warmly.

        “I’m glad I got into this family, I got one of the best brother’s ever now,” Hotpop said, holding the stallion very tight.

        “It was nothing really. With Gilda’s help at the forge, I’ve been able to make quite a pretty penny lately,” Caster said, trying to be modest.

        “Well ah must admit, it sure was a penny well spent,” Applejack said, tipping her dress hat. “So what say we all see how much that penny was worth and get this party movin’?”

        Everyone agreed with Applejack as they all headed to the carriage. The siblings disengaged from their hug and followed after. The white unicorn stallion stood by the carriage and opened it with a green aura, letting them step up into their ride. The inside of the carriage was just as magnificent as it was outside. Cushion seats surrounded the walls, colored a dark shade of plum just like the floor. The ceiling and the upper walls were painted midnight blue and looked like it had stars covering them. Small golden pillars lined the corners of the room.

        “Wowie zowie, this is amazing!” Pinkie said, bouncing on her seat.

        “Thanks Pinkie, it’s good to know my bits were well spent,” the light brown Pegasus said, taking his seat next to Fluttershy.

        As all of their friends took their respective seats, the unicorn stallion closed the door behind them and took his seat at the front of the carriage. Taking the reins into his hooves, he signaled the guards to start moving. When the ponies felt the carriage start to move they grew more excited about getting to the Gala. Some of them returned to earlier conversations while others began new ones. For Caster and Fluttershy, they simply enjoyed each other’s company, occasionally pitching in a few conversations. And so continued on like this for the rest of their trip, as they moved onward to the Grand Galloping Gala.

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        The full moon shined brightly in the night sky covered in many twinkling stars. All of these provided an excellent source of illumination upon the city of Canterlot. It made it clearer for several carriages making their way through the streets to the Castle for the Grand Galloping Gala. Like always it was the premiere event of the year as evidenced by all the Ponies attending, the Wonderbolts flying, and the huge firework display. Some chose to, of course, take a carriage to the Gala, others decided to walk to their destination. But either way, almost everyone had one place to be tonight.

        One carriage in particular, colored white with golden trimming and carried by Royal Guards, made a brisk pace toward the castle. Upon arrival, it had caught the attention of a few passerby’s. Slowing to a halt, the chauffer stepped down from his seat on the carriage and moved to the door. Opening it up, the unicorn allowed the first pony to step out, which was none other than Caster Forge. As he stepped out a few mares noticed him and recognized who he was. They felt a tad flirty and wished to greet him. But as the stallion stepped to the side, he held his hoof out and a small yellow one took hold of his.

        The mares saw a yellow Pegasus mare, Fluttershy, stepped out and gave him a thanks. They put two and two together and upon their realization they began to grow jealous. As Fluttershy exited the carriage she grew a tad nervous. This was her first time on a real date and she was out in public letting everyone know about it. The yellow mare saw a few ponies looking at them and her anxiety welled up inside of her. Especially when she saw the other mares giving her a somewhat stern look. Caster noticed this and spoke.

        “It’s all right Fluttershy, there’s no need to be nervous,” he said, comforting her. “Lots of other ponies here have dates just like us. We’re just like them and they have no reason to judge us.”

        It took a few moments to calm herself down, but eventually Fluttershy managed to even herself out. She took a quick deep breath in and out and turned to her date.

        “You’re right Caster, there’s nothing to be ashamed about,” the Pegasus mare said. “It’s just two good friends spending time together, that’s all.”

        “Exactly, I’m glad you’re able to relax now,” Caster said, giving a sigh of relief.

        “It’s all thanks to you,” Fluttershy said, giving him a tender hug which he of course returned.

        “I say, you’ve become a real gentlecolt since last we met old boy,” a stallion said, in a Canterlot accent.

         Caster, along with all his other friends, who had stepped out of the carriage, all turned to see who had spoken up. They were surprised to see it was Fancy Pants himself. He was wearing usual suit and sporting his trademark monocle. Accompanying him was his wife Fleur De Lis, wearing a beautiful silver colored, silk dress. It wasn’t surprising to see him of all ponies show up at the Gala. But it was surprising when Fancy Pants went up to them and shook Caster’s hoof.

        “It’s been too long Fancy,” the blacksmith pony said, returning the hoof shake.

        “You know Fancy Pants?” Fluttershy asked.

        “Indeed I do. He came to our shop one day asking for a necklace for Fleur here. Our parents accepted of course and after they finished, Fancy Pants started visiting us. Truth be told I was a little skeptical at first, always thinking ponies from Canterlot were a bunch of snobs. Uh, no offence Fancy,” Caster said, not wanting to be rude toward his friend.

        “None taken Caster. I must agree with you though, some of the elite are a bit intolerable. Always taking their social status too far,” Fancy said, scoffing at the thought.

        “Agreed. Anyway once we got to know him better we treated him almost like he was part of the family. Fancy and Fleur have always been there for us when we were going through some downward spirals. They've been great idols and even better friends ever since,” the light brown Pegasus stated.

        “You flatter us Caster. When you get the chance could you say thank you to your mother for this necklace she made for me?” Fleur said, pointing to the necklace she was wearing. “Amethyst Emberglow is one the best jewelers I’ve ever known. It’s no surprise why your father, Copper Gold, would go for a mare like her.”

        “Yeah, those two were made for each other,” Jack said, chiming into the conversation.

        “Yes well I’ll remember to do that when I can,” Caster said.

        “Very good. Now what say we all move on to the Gala,” Fancy Pants said, slightly chuckling.

        “Right, don’t want to keep my friends, nor my date, waiting any longer,” the stallion said, sharing the chuckle.

        With that in mind, Caster went over to Fluttershy and offered his hoof to her again. She graciously accepted and the two of them went to the entrance of the castle hoof in hoof, their friends and associates following. They all showed their invitations to the guards standing by the gate and the armored ponies gladly let them in. After navigating their way through the halls, Caster and his friends soon came across the Canterlot Castle Ballroom.

        Like always it was one of the most elegant rooms the castle had to offer. The checkered tile floor shined in the light of the chandelier above, making the whole ballroom sparkle. A large red carpet traveled across the room showing exits and entrances. Tables were spotted here and there, covered with table cloth and adorned with fine china. The painted windows gave an artistic atmosphere to all who gazed upon them. At the back of the room was a stage where Octavia and her band had set up and was playing soft classical music. And of course several ponies were scattered across the room. Some taking part in idle conversations, while others chose to move across the dance floor with a partner. It was truly something worth talking about every year.

        “Now this is what I call a Gala,” Caster said, admiring the scenery.

        “I agree,” Fluttershy said, timidly.

        “You guys go ahead and have fun, I’ve got plans with the Wonderbolts!” Rainbow Dash said, squealing like a little filly as she bolted to the VIP section.

        “We’ll catch up with ya’ll later. Me and Caramel have some hungry customers to feed,” Applejack said, she and the aforementioned stallion pushing a large food cart with them.

        “Well until then I say we try to enjoy ourselves for now,” Spike said, turning to Rarity and extending a claw. “May I have this dance milady?”

        “You certainly may Spikey-Wikey,” Rarity said, accepting his offer as he led them both to the dance floor.

        “That sounds like a marvelous idea,” Fancy Pants said, as he and Fleur took to the dance floor as well.

        Jack Reels and Hotpop went along also, leaving Caster, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Twilight Sparkle to watch them. It was enjoyable to see their friends having such a good time. However, Caster noticed that Pinkie was looking a little down and decided to speak up.

        “Pinkie, is everything okay?” he asked, out of concern.

        “Huh, yeah I’m all right,” the pink mare said, putting on a sad smile. “It’s just that, whenever I try to throw a big party here nopony seems to want a part in it. I just wish for once somepony would try to have a little fun at this kind of event.”

        “Ah reckon that ah could help ya’ll with that,” a southern voice said, from behind.

        The four ponies looked behind to see who it was. Shocking it was Applejack’s cousin Braeburn, wearing a white tuxedo with a black bowtie. He had foregone his cowboy hat and simply had his mane properly styled for this event.

        “Braeburn, what are you doing here?” Pinkie said, starting to blush.

        “Funny story really. A couple o’ days ago ah was workin’ in the fields when ah was approached by a mail mare. She gave an envelope which had a letter inside and an invitation to the Gala. Apparently ah had done so much work both in Appaloosa and for provided food to Equestria that ah was invited as a thank you fer all mah hard work. Never thought I’d ever come to these things really,” Braeburn said, flashing a big smile.

        “Well it’s nice to see you again Braeburn. I’m glad you were able to make it,” Twilight said, happy to hear about his achievement.

        “Thank ya kindly Ms. Twilight,” Braeburn said, turning his attention back to Pinkie Pie. “Now as ah was sayin’ earlier ah can help ya’ll with your situation. What say you and ah share a dance and show these what it means to party?”

        It took the party pony only a few seconds to process what he had said. In a flash she had grabbed ahold of him and nearly dragged him to the dance floor. The mare wore a smile so big they were afraid her face would get stuck like that.

        “Looks like everypony else has decided to have a dance. Might as well join in,” Caster said, looking toward Fluttershy. “Shall we?”

        “Of course,” Fluttershy said, as she and her date made their way to where most of their friends had gone to.

        Twilight watched in delight as two of her friends went off to spend time together. Yet she couldn’t help but feel a little lonely. All of her friends had somewhere to be but she had no clue what to do to pass the time. She would’ve gone to talk with Princess Celestia but remembered she was busy greeting all of her guests. Twilight kept thinking about what to do that she didn’t even notice somepony walking up to her. When she finally did notice, the lavender unicorn’s mouth dropped and her face lightly blushed. It was Princess Luna, wearing a beautiful blue and black Gala dress.

        “Hello Twilight, it is nice to see you again,” the princess said.

        “I-it’s nice to see you too your highness,” Twilight said giving a respectful bow. “What are you doing here?”

        “Well my sister was able to convince me to try and attend more social events. So I decided to start by being at the Grand Galloping Gala this year. At first I tried socializing with a few of the nobles but most of them were just so boring, only talking about business and such. That was when I saw you. You seemed to be by yourself, I thought you would’ve been with your friends,” Luna said, wondering what was up.

        “I did come here with my friends but they all went off to do their own things. I was going to talk to Princess Celestia, but I’m pretty sure she’s probably greeting guests right now,” she said, looking a little down.

        Princess Luna was a bit surprised to hear. Twilight was probably not aware of what Princess Celestia had plans for tonight, said plans made Luna blush a tad. Removing her blush and wanting to cheer her friend up, the dark blue Alicorn chose to change the subject.

        “You know you can talk to me if you want,” the Princess of the Night said, making the unicorn’s ears perk up.

        “Really, you mean it? I mean I don’t know if you’d be interested, I was mostly planning to talk about my studies in friendship,” Twilight said.

        “It’ll certainly be better than what all those other ponies are talking about. Besides I’ve always wanted to hear about you and your friend’s adventures,” Luna said, intrigued by her stories.

        Not wanting to waste this opportunity, Twilight began talking with the Princess about all she had over the years. They soon started walking away from the dance floor, wanting to find a place to talk in peace. Meanwhile, back at the dance floor, Caster and Fluttershy were about ready to dance. They had gotten into the usual dance position like everyone else around them.

        “So I’m guessing you’ll need me to lead again right-” Fluttershy was cut off when a hoof touched her muzzle.

        “No. This time, I’ll be the one to lead,” Caster said, as he guided himself and her across the floor with the other couples.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tEj6gXA_eA

        On the stage, Octavia and her band had begun playing some classical ballroom music. It was very upbeat and gave nice rhythm to the whole dance floor. Caster displayed this first hand as he danced surprisingly well with his partner. They both kept staring into each other’s eyes, never once averting their gaze. The stallion’s dancing was superb, getting every movement right and succeeding in not stepping on Fluttershy’s hooves. Curious at this turn of events, the mare decided to speak up.

        “My Caster you’ve certainly gotten better at ballroom dancing. When did you learn to do this?” she asked.

        “I’ve been taking lessons, it’s one of the reasons why I’ve been so preoccupied lately,” Caster said, as he gave her a little spin. “It wouldn’t have been much of a dance if one of didn’t know how to after all.”

        “Well I must say it was time well spent,” Fluttershy said, admiring his newly found dancing skills.

        “Thank you Fluttershy, that means a lot,” the light brown Pegasus said, upping the routine slightly.

        As they danced across the floor, the two of them couldn’t help but look at their other friends doing the same. Pinkie Pie and Braeburn were laughing as they danced, who knew Pinkie could do so well in this manner. Fancy Pants and Fleur De Lis showed that even at a somewhat old age, they showed that they still got it. Jack Reels and Hotpop were simple, no fancy moves but rather being closer than everyone else, signifying how much they enjoyed being together. Spike and Rarity were something to behold, the former being the ultimate gentledrake and using moves that would almost put Caster’s to shame.

        Finally, as a sudden addition, most of the ponies saw something they never expected. Entering the ballroom was Princess Celestia, wearing a bright orange and white dress, being escorted by none other than Discord. He was wearing a black jacket, a red undershirt, and a white bowtie. The God of Chaos did not have any look of mischief about him, rather one of pleasantry as he held onto Celestia’s hoof in his claw. Once they reached the dance floor they immediately started dancing along with the other couples. It was a bit surprising to see those two of all creatures sharing a dance together, but no one there was willing to judge.

        And so the music continued on until reaching a final crescendo. Caster and Fluttershy picked up the pace a little, knowing the song was about to end soon. As the final notes played out the stallion gave the yellow mare a quick spin before ending in a dip. The ponies all around them applauded Caster and Fluttershy’s dancing, as well as the other dancers. That was when something completely unexpected happened. Back on the stage the curtains behind the band revealed a certain DJ mare with wild blue hair, white fur, and dark sunglasses, operating a large DJ system.

        “Hello Grand Galloping Gala!” Vinyl Scratch shouted, earning everyone’s attention. “I have to admit those were some sweet moves out there everypony, you were awesome. Now while I myself do enjoy my girl Octavia’s tunes, a party will always need some rocking vibes. So I say we turn things up a notch and really get this party started!”

        At that point the white unicorn mare began one of her latest hits. The music vibrated throughout the ballroom. Not surprising to most of the ponies there, Pinkie and Braeburn immediately started boogying to this new song. Some of the more noble class were about to say something about what they thought to be nonsense. But that was when they saw Fancy and Fleur dancing along with the music. Seeing as how one of the most influential ponies in Canterlot was going along with it, they thought they should as well.

        In no time at all everyone was moving to this new groove that was playing. Even Celestia and Discord were have a blast as the latter used his magic to create some stage lights for effect. Caster and Fluttershy had an exceptionally good time as well, dancing any way they saw fit. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the moment, all except for one stallion. This pony, who had blonde hair and blue eyes, was displeased by this sudden change of tune and wanted to try and put a stop to it. As he made his way through the crowd, he soon came across the dance floor where he saw several ponies dancing to this ‘hideous’ music he thought.

        One pair of dancers soon caught his attention, particularly the stallion of the pair. To him, this light brown Pegasus looked somewhat familiar to him. However he could not seem to put his hoof on where he had seen him. That is until the blonde maned stallion noticed the all too recognizable lucky mark adorning the Pegasus’ flank. Upon realization, the pony gritted his teeth and his blue eyes grew with a fierce fire inside them. He wanted to confront Caster once and for all but decided to bide his time, not wanting to make too big a scene. For soon he would have his revenge for what the blacksmith had done to him all those years ago.

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        As the night wore on, so did the events at the Grand Galloping Gala. Many of the ponies had gotten used to the music that Vinyl Scratch had brought about. Surprisingly, it had really turned the Gala around as a lot of the nobles found this new beat very enthusiastic. Seeing as this was her chance to liven things up a bit more, Pinkie Pie brought out some party games from seemingly out of nowhere. They all went along with it and found the games to their liking. Eventually Caster and Fluttershy, along with their friends, got a little tired and decided to find where Rainbow Dash was in the VIP section.

        Pinkie, Braeburn, Jack, Hotpop, Spike and Rarity all went with them to group up with the rest of their friends. They made their way to the VIP section where two guards stood at the ready. Caster was wondering how they were going to get in when Rainbow Dash appeared in front of them.

        “It’s okay you guys, they’re with me,” the cyan Pegasus said, letting the guards move out of the way to let them in.

        “Thanks fer that Rainbow, I don’t know how we else would’ve gotten in,” Braeburn said.

        “Oh hey Brae, when did you show up?” Rainbow asked, surprised to see her friend’s cousin.

        “Ah’ll talk about it later, right now we need to get some food. Ah’m hungrier than a buffalo durin’ an apple shortage,” the tan colored stallion said, his stomach barely growling.

        With that, Rainbow Dash led her weary friends to the Wonderbolts's private table. Upon arrival, they saw Applejack and Caramel working at their food cart serving food to the Wonderbolts at great speed. Some of the Wonderbolts they noticed like Spitfire, Fleetfoot, and of course Soarin’. Also there was Twilight Sparkle along with Princess Luna, talking about sorts of topics, most of them being about the friendship reports.

        Sitting down next to their dates, as Pinkie referred Braeburn as at this point, Caster and Fluttershy along with their friends ordered some dinner from Applejack’s stand. Proceeds from the sales of dinners would be used for Apple Farm renovations. And so it went on like this throughout the night.

        Twilight and Luna went on about their personal lives and such. Spike and Rarity conversed about many dress designs and projects that were coming up. Pinkie and Braeburn kept on telling one joke after another, laughing all throughout dinner. Applejack and Caramel, while preparing and serving food, made idle chit-chat about their individual work on the farm. Rainbow Dash and Soarin’ talked about all the times they’ve ran into each other and the many flying tricks they’ve learned over the years. And finally Caster and Fluttershy simply talked about their normal lives, like working at the forge or tending to the animals.

        “Hey Applejack, one apple pie please,” Soarin’ said, tossing a few bits into a small chest full of them.

        “No problem partner, comin right up,” the orange mare, reaching for a premade pie.

        “Make that two please,” Caster said, tossing in the same amount of bits

        “You got it,” Applejack said, grabbing a second pie and serving one to both of the stallions.

        “I guess you love pie about as much as I do,” the light blue Pegasus said.

        “That all depends, are you up for a challenge?” the blacksmith pony said, shooting a grin at him.

        “What’d you have in mind?” Soarin’ asked, already eager.

        “First one to finish their apple pie wins,” Caster said.

        “Oh you are so on,” the Pegasus stallion, getting ready.

        They both stood at the ready, waiting for someone to start it off. Rainbow Dash took it upon herself to act as the referee for this little contest. The tension was rising in anticipation before the signal was given.

        “Ready, set, GO!!” Rainbow said, watching as the two stallions went for their meals.

        Everyone at the table started cheering, wanting to see who would come out of it victorious. It was sort of an oxymoron, seeing Caster wearing such a fancy suit and yet he dug into his pie like there was no tomorrow. Though that didn’t seem to matter to him as the stallion focused solely on winning what he had started. Soarin’ was in the same state of mind, eating his apple pie in a rather sloppy manner. As a Wonderbolt he should’ve been fast everything, including pie eating.

        Even as they devoured the large desserts, the two of them still managed to enjoy the flavor. Especially Soarin’, apple pie being his favorite treat. Before anyone knew it the contest had already ended, with Caster being the winner.

        “Woo hoo!” Caster said, after swallowing the pie still in his mouth. “That was awesome.”

        “I have to admit, it was pretty impressive,” Soarin’ said, giving credit to his friend.

        “Indeed. You may be fast in the sky but you’re slow in pie. No offence of course,” the light brown Pegasus said.

        “It’s all right, you can’t beat everypony after all,” the dark blue maned pony said, laughing.

        They all soon joined in the joke, as well as congratulating Caster on his win. Although the moment seemed perfect, it was about to be brought down. This was due to a familiar stallion speaking up.

        “I almost find it hard to believe that somepony like you could attend a prestigious event such as this, Caster,” an annoying, snobby Canterlot voice said.

        Everyone at the table looked in front of them to see it was. To their utter displeasure it was Prince Blueblood. He wore his normal, regal attire which complimented with his white fur. His blonde mane was groomed to perfection, though it had a few out of place hairs. And his blue eyes seemed to burn with a fearsome look. Needless to say, no one there was pleased to see him.

        “You! What do you think you’re doing here?” Spike said, visibly angry at the pony he hated most. “You’ve got some nerve showing your pompous face around here!”

        “I agree,” Rarity said, joining the dragon. “I don’t care what apologies you’ve come up with, I’ll never forgive you for your inexcusable treatment you ruffian!”

        Blueblood walked up to them and Spike got in his way, keeping him away from Rarity. But to their surprise, the unicorn simply walked right past them, almost ignoring their presence.

        “I have no time to waste with you, you overgrown lizard. My business lies with this pony,” Blueblood said, pointing a hoof directly at Caster.

        “Hello Blueblood, it’s been a long time hasn’t it?” the blacksmith said, calmly while Fluttershy shook with fear behind him.

        “16 years in fact. 16 years of my potential that you stole from me!” He spat out, seething with rage.

        “Are you still hung up about losing that contest?” the Pegasus Stallion said, sighing in annoyance. “Look Blueblood it was a fair completion of both style and effort and there’s nothing you or I could do about it. It was a long time ago and you need to get over-”

        “YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU DID TO ME DO YOU!!?” Prince Blueblood shouted, earning the attention of everyone in the VIP section. “My dreams were crushed because of you!”

        “Blueblood calm down, you’re overreacting over something that happened years ago,” Princess Luna said, trying to calm her nephew.

        “You stay out of this auntie. This is between me and him,” he said, sneering at the dark blue Alicorn.

        “What are you talking about, I’ve done nothing to you,” Caster said, confused by this whole ordeal.

        “I thought you wouldn’t know, always thinking you’re better than me after all. Well I shall tell you,” the white unicorn said. “My aunt Celestia wanted me to get into her art school by actually proving myself rather than using my position to get myself in. So I practiced for many years just to prove that I was meant to her school. However that all came crashing down when you beat me in that contest and Celestia forbade me from attending her prestigious school of the gifted arts.”

        Caster simply sat there, along with his friends, listening to the Prince ramble on.

        “After losing my chances of getting in, I had tried enrolling in other art institutions all over Equestria. But no matter where I went, nopony would ever accept me. None ever even gave me a reason as to why they wouldn’t, but in my heart I always knew. It was because of you Caster! You made a fool out of me that day by showing me up with that pathetic sculpture you made. They must’ve thought that if a Prince’s art could be beaten by something like that, then I would have no place in their institutions. My reputation was ruined forever because of you!” Blueblood said, finishing his past misfortunes.

        Caster rolled his eyes, seeing how the Prince had become so blind. “So then what do you want Blueblood? What happened in the past cannot be changed at this point. What could you possibly want from me?”

        “What I want is my honor and respect back. And there is only one way I see to get that. Caster Forge, I challenge you to hoofticuffs!” the unicorn said, pulling out a handkerchief from his coat pocket with his magic and slapping Caster across the face with it.

        They all gasped at what they had just heard. No one would’ve thought that a Prince like him would ever resort to violence.

        “Please Blueblood, this isn’t necessary,” Luna said, trying to be the voice of reason.

        “It is for me Aunt Luna,” Blueblood said, not backing down.

        “You leave my friend alone you bully!” Fluttershy said, moving in front of Caster trying to protect him.

        “Get out of my way filly. I have no interest in fighting mares and I’d hate to ruin that pretty face of yours,” he said, acting as smug as ever.

        “I don’t care what happens to me, I won’t let you hurt my dearest friend,” the yellow mare said, unwavering.

        “You’re dearest friend? Ha! What could he ever see in a filthy commoner like yourself,” the Prince said.

        That insult pushed Caster over the edge. Insults against himself that he could handle. But those directed against his friends, especially the pony he loved, the stallion would not stand for.

        “Fluttershy. Stand aside,” Caster said, so determined that nothing would sway his mind.

        “B-b-but Caster, he’ll hurt you,” Fluttershy said, trying to talk him out of this.

        “Don’t worry Fluttershy, I’ll be fine,” the blacksmith pony said, reassuring her.

        “So you’re ready for what’s coming to you?” Blueblood said, grinning with bad intentions.

        “I’m not doing this to satisfy your selfish desires Blueblood. I’m doing this to show how wrong you are,” Caster said, with an intense tone.

        Prince Blueblood was confused by what he meant, but he didn’t care at the moment. All that mattered was that he would get what he rightfully deserved. The light brown Pegasus removed his coat and proceeded to walk and past the unicorn. Soon the two stallions stood in front of the other in an open space in the VIP section where everyone saw them. One looked ready to brawl while the other kept calm and collected.

        “What are you waiting for, fight me now!” the unicorn stallion said, already impatient.

        “Before we get started I have something to give to you, ‘your highness’. A free shot,” the Pegasus stallion said.

        “What?” Blueblood asked, perplexed.

        “What!?” Caster’s friends asked, astonished.

        “I realize that you’ve lost out on a lot because of me apparently. So I see it only fair to give you one strike against me,” Caster said, honestly. “I will not do anything to defend myself. But after this shot, I won’t hold back in the least.

        “Y-you’re lying, what are you up to?” the white unicorn asked, more confused by the second.

        “This is to teach you a lesson Blueblood. In fact, why don’t you channel all your rage into your hoof? Every bad thought you’ve had of me, every curse you uttered at my name, every memory of me, and then direct it all here,” the blacksmith pony said, pointing at his left cheek.

        Blueblood and everyone else there did not know what to make of this. What lesson could Caster possibly teach by allowing himself to be punched in the face? However the Prince did not seem to care too much as he didn’t want to pass up this opportunity. He raised his hoof and simply stared at the stallion in front of him. The Pegasus just stood there, uncaring of what was to come. Like he was trying to mock him. It angered Blueblood so much that every thought he had of Caster came crawling back. With nothing left to lose, all of his anger built up until he saw his hoof rocketing forward.

        They all expected Caster to move out of the way, that he just made his statement up. Yet he did not, he was a stallion of his word. In an instant, Blueblood’s hoof came in contact with the light brown Pegasus’ cheek. Caster made no effort to resist its force and he was sent nearly flying across the floor. He ended up landing on a vacant table, about ten feet away, which promptly broke in half upon impact. Right at that moment, Fluttershy immediately bolted to his side to see if he was all right.

        “Caster, are you okay!? Please say something!” Fluttershy said, already starting to cry.

        She looked upon him and saw the damage that had been done. Caster’s cheek had already started to swell up. His eye had been seriously bruised but enough to be deemed a full on black eye. And his bottom lip was slightly cut causing it to bleed along with his nose. The stallion was groaning in considerable pain from what he had suffered.

        “Did anypony get the number on that cart?” Caster spoke, in a daze.

        “Are you all right?” the yellow mare asked, concerned for his well-being.

        “Uhh, yes I am okay Fluttershy. No need to worry,” the Pegasus said, patting her gently on the head and faintly smiling.

        Caster picked up a napkin from the demolished table and wiped the blood from his muzzle. He took another one and tore a piece off to act as a nose plug. The stallion then tried getting up, though he was a bit wobbly at first. He soon managed to stand up, with Fluttershy’s help. Walking forward he came back to face not only a perplexed Blueblood, but many astonished friends and bystanders as well.

        “So Blueblood, now are satisfied with your accomplishment?” Caster asked, waiting for a response.

        “How am I supposed to feel satisfied, that was just a free shot. Our fight has yet to begun,” Blueblood said, getting ready for what was to come.

        “You still don’t get it do you?”

        “What in the name of Celestia are you going on about?”

        “Don’t you see, even after punching me you still feel no joy inside? Nothing to even speak of and do you know why?” the blacksmith said.

        “Please, do tell,” the Prince said, sarcastically.

        “It’s because you’re not angry at me. You’re only angry at yourself,” Caster said, in a matter of fact.

        “What?”

        “All of these years, you’ve held onto a loss that happened over a decade ago. You’ve put your reputation up so high that you brought upon your misfortunes by yourself. You didn’t need to go someplace fancy to prove your talent at art and because of that you locked your talent away due to shame and in pursuit of revenge,” the light brown Pegasus stated.

        “That’s only because you prevented me from attending those schools in the first place!” Blueblood said, trying to defend his case. “I could never bring my beautiful artwork to light because you overshadowed me!”

        “That is not true Blueblood, they never let you in because of your ideals on art,” Celestia said, surprising everyone.

        “Aunt Celestia, what are you talking about?” that white unicorn questioned.

        “At the contest you stated that art is only something that takes years to achieve. Your selfish views made you fail to realize that art can take on any form and that anypony can do, regardless of how long they’ve been doing it for,” the white Alicorn stated. “When the other institutions heard of your ideals they said would never accept somepony who thinks art is only for the select few and uses it for their own self-centered purposes.

        “But I-” Blueblood tried to speak.

        “They are right you know. I may be the Lord of Chaos but even I have principles,” Discord said, standing next to Celestia.

        “You see Blueblood, your misery is your own fault and nopony else’s. That is why your punch was hollow and meaningless,” Caster said, putting another thorn into the Prince’s side. “If you still feel the need to release your aggression though, then continue to fight. But as I warned you before I will not hold back this time. So what’s it going to be Prince?”

        Blueblood did not know what to say. It was all so confusing for him. Almost all of his life the unicorn had believed that Caster had been responsible for ruining his chances of showing his art to the world. Now that all of this information had been brought to light, he was conflicted between his anger and rationality. For now he thought it would be best to just get out of here before he was made an even bigger fool.

         “I will not dignify that with a response. You’ve gotten what you deserved and that shall be more than satisfactory for now. Enjoy your pathetic party,” Blueblood said, storming off with his nose held to the air.

        “Geez, if he ever learns a lesson it’ll be a miracle,” Caster said, retrieving his coat and straightening his suit.

        “My goodness Caster are you all right?” Rarity asked.

        “I’m okay Rarity, just a little scraped is all,” he said, feeling the bruise on his cheek. “I have to say though, for such a whiner he certainly knows how to throw a punch.

        “Yes well we’re all just glad that you’re okay,” Fluttershy said, giving him a soft hug.

        “Indeed. I think I might need some fresh air though, I’m still a little woozy,” the stallion said, lightly swaying side to side.

        “I’ll go with you,” the yellow Pegasus said, wanting to make sure he would be okay.

        Their friends tried to rekindle whatever conversations they left, trying to forget what had just happened. They also watched as the two Pegasus’ went off to the Royal garden just outside the ballroom.

===============================================================

        Caster and Fluttershy walked through the gardens, not talking but rather enjoying the scenery around them. The gardens were always beautiful, filled with the most wondrous flora imaginable from the trees to the small flowers and plants. Also around them were the creatures that inhabited the garden. But as Fluttershy expected they all hid away at the sight of the two of them. Ignoring it for now, the ponies continued their walk before Caster spoke up.

        “I’m sorry you had to see that back there. I never thought I’d run into him again,” the stallion said, hoping she wasn’t upset by the whole ordeal.

        “Its fine you’re safe now and that’s all that matters,” Fluttershy said cuddling up to him.

        He returned the cuddle and they stayed like that for a while. That was until the mare felt something move in Caster’s coat pocket. She moved back to see that it was none other than Nina.

        “Nina, what are you doing in there? When did you get here?” the yellow Pegasus pondered.

        “Actually she’s been with us the whole time,” Caster said, taking the squirrel out and giving it a little nuzzle.

        “But then why didn’t you say something about her?” Fluttershy asked, confused.

        “I meant it to be a bit of a surprise. Partly for this reason,” the blacksmith pony said, whispering a message to Nina before she took off into the bushes.

        “Where’s Nina going?”

        “Don’t worry Fluttershy, she’ll be just fine.”

        After that the two ponies continued walking through the gardens. Soon they came across a large fountain at the center, which reflected the full moon’s image upon the water. Caster and Fluttershy took this opportunity to sit down and rest, sitting close together and listening to the crickets chirping.

        “This is really nice,” Fluttershy said, enjoy the stallion’s presence and gazing at the fountain water.

        “It sure is. And I must say, aside from that little incident we had, this has truly been a night worth remembering,” Caster said, looking on the bright side of their evening.

        “I agree,” the pink maned pony said, before realizing that this would be a chance to bring up what she learned about a couple days back. “In fact I’d say this would be, the perfect night ever.”

        The light brown Pegasus nearly felt his heart skip a beat at those words. They were so exact that he almost didn’t know what to say. But he still tried to mutter something.

        “W-what did you s-say?” Caster asked, in a quiet voice that rivaled Fluttershy’s.

        “I knew, Caster, about your perfect night ever plan.”

        “How did you know?”

        Fluttershy was a bit timid before speaking. “I-I read your mind journal.”

        The stallion said nothing, trying to ponder why she would do something like that.

        “Please let me explain,” the Pegasus mare said. “The only reason I did was because I wanted to know you better. When Jack and Hotpop told me about your life before we met I felt so bad for you. I just wanted to see what it was like for you back then so I could know how to support you at times when you’re down.”

        Again there was nothing but silence from Caster. He felt a little betrayed by what Fluttershy had done. But her reason why was a bit understandable. Besides he was bound to tell her and his friends how he truly felt eventually. So with a heavy heart the stallion spoke.

        “While I’m not too happy with you invading my privacy I can understand why you did it. Just promise me that next time you just ask,” Caster said, smiling sympathetically. “You’re my dearest friend and you can hear anything about me that you want.”

        “Okay, I promise,” Fluttershy said, hugging him. “Now please tell me, what was this perfect night ever plan about.

        “No point in keeping secrets anymore I guess,” he stated. “This was something I have been planning to repay you and your friends for all that you’ve done for me since I came here a year ago. The only other ponies who know about it are Princess Celestia, Spitfire, Fancy and Fleur, and the Doctor.”

        “Aww that’s so sweet and thoughtful. So how did you do it?” the yellow Pegasus asked, becoming interested.

        “Well I started by going to Doctor Whooves. I wanted to see everything that went wrong at your first Grand Galloping Gala. He offered to help me by using that blue box thing he calls the TARDIS, provided I do him a favor,”

        “What was it?”

        “He asked me to give him some dating advice so that he could ask Ditzy Doo out on a date,” Caster said, bluntly.

        “Oh my, I never thought he had feelings for her. Also I didn’t think he’d ask you for help in that matter,” Fluttershy said, stunned by this turnaround.

        “I never knew he did either. As for why he asked me, despite my unfortunate mishaps with dating I’m actually very knowledgeable on it. So I agreed to help him and we spent the next few months going back in time to see all the flaws that occurred during the Gala,” the blacksmith said, retracing all that had happened before.

        “That’s sound like it was fun. What did you fix anyway?” the mare asked.

        “Firstly was Applejack’s food stand. Not many of the ponies seemed to be even remotely interested in her food. All of them accept Soarin’. That was when I realized that since the Wonderbolts worked so hard, they would work up an appetite that hors d'oeuvres could not satisfy. So I talked to Spitfire and she managed to arrange for Applejack to personally serve food to them. For Rainbow Dash, a lot of ponies kept interfering with her time with the Wonderbolts. I didn’t much of a way to bypass this until I saw the private Wonderbolts table where none of them were disturbed. So I talked to Spitfire again and got her to send Dash an invitation.”

        “Then there was Pinkie’s party attempt. Despite her efforts none of the partygoers wanted to follow along with her idea of partying. What she needed was something to get everypony, and I mean everypony, to join in. It was a doozy at first, but that was when I remembered somepony who all nobles in Canterlot looked up to: Fancy Pants. No matter what they all agreed with whatever he went along with, which meant he would be perfect for this situation. So I asked if he would go along with it and he gladly agreed. As for Twilight, hers was simple, wanting to talk to the princess. So I talked with Celestia into convincing her sister to attend this year’s Gala. We both knew that she and Twilight would eventually meet and talk to each other.”

        “I see. What about Rarity?” Fluttershy asked, doing her best to keep up.

        “Honestly I really didn’t have to do much,” Caster said. “All I did was give both her and Spike a little motivation and sure enough here they are on a date.”

        “Well I guess that’s no real surprise there,” the mare said, giggling.

        “Yeah. That was also another thing I planned for this night. Making sure everypony had their special somepony,” the Pegasus stallion said.

        That comment made Fluttershy blush a little. “R-r-really?”

        “Indeed, Spike and Rarity were already at that point so there was no need to meddle any further with them. As for the others, I had an invitation sent out to Braeburn. I know that Pinkie has always seem him as more than just a friend. For Applejack I had her letter suggest that the she bring somepony to assist her. Knowing that the rest of the Apple family would be busy she would most likely ask Caramel, and they both had an eye for the other. Rainbow Dash, being at the Wpnderbolts private table, would most likely get to spend time with Soarin’, who I’m pretty sure has been admiring her since she rescued him. And as for Twilight, well, I’m pretty sure you can guess where this one is going,” Caster said, hoping Fluttershy would get the message.

        “Oh my,” she said.

        “It was a surprise to me too when I found out,” he said. “But I digress. Either way this night has probably turned into one of my crowning achievements.”

        “I’m glad you’re happy with the outcome Caster. This has been a wonderful night for me too,” Fluttershy said, smiling warmly at him.

        “Yes well, it’s not over yet actually,” the stallion said, looking nervous.

        “What do you mean?” the yellow mare asked, wondering what was left.

        “There’s something I wanted to tell you Fluttershy. Something I’ve wanted to say for a long time now,” Caster said, starting to blush.

        “What is it?”

        The blacksmith pony took a breath before he revealed his truth. “I love you Fluttershy.”

        Now it was time for Fluttershy’s heart to skip a beat. All the world seemed to stop around her as those words passed Caster’s lips. She could hardly form a sentence after hearing them.

        “I, um,” she tried saying.

        “Give me a moment to speak, please,” the light brown Pegasus said. “I’ve had feelings for you for quite a while now. Maybe ever since we met I don’t know. But even so the reason I fell in love with you was because you were always there for me Fluttershy. No matter what the situation or the reason for it was you always were there to keep my spirits up. You gave me a place to stay when I had nowhere to go. You brought me back from my depths of loneliness when I had chosen to give up. And you even took care of me when I was wounded, both in heart and body.”

        Fluttershy just listened as he kept on talking about his feelings. Starting to blush and cry a little as time went on.

        “I don’t know if you share the feelings toward me or not, but I still want to have this said. I love you Fluttershy with all of my heart and nothing will ever change. But if you don’t feel the same way we can still be good friends, I just hope neither of those relationships will ever disappear,” Caster said, finishing what he had to say.

        The only sound that could be heard was the crickets chirping and the rustle of leaves by the soft wind. Neither of the ponies could think of anything to say after that confession. One for not knowing what else to say, while the other tried to process what the stallion had said. The silence continued on for a while longer until Caster felt Fluttershy’s hoof gently take hold of his. He looked at her and saw that she was looking at the butterfly necklace, that he made her for Hearth’s Warming, around her neck, which he didn’t notice she was wearing until now.

        “That was, very sweet of you to say Caster,” Fluttershy said, turning to look at him. “And I-I have something to tell you to.”

        “Okay, go ahead,” Caster said, gulping in anticipation.

        “I… I love you too,” she said, at last. “I’ve loved you for as long as I can remember since meeting you. It simply started off as curiosity, just wanting to know you better and it went on from there. Ever since you moved here to Ponyville you’ve always been there to help others around you as well as me and my friends. You also never swept your duties to the side either. You were devoted to work for the sake of keeping countless soldiers protected.”

        The stallion was stunned by what she was saying. Not many ponies had given much thought to the amount of effort he put into his work before.

        “I fell in love with you not only because you were there for me and my friends, but also because you’re there for everypony. That is what makes you stand out above the rest,” Fluttershy said, ending her confession.

        When it was all said and done Caster didn’t know what to say. After finally confessing his feelings to the mare he loved, his feelings were actually returned in kind. It was all a bit much to take at that point.

        “Fluttershy I, I don’t know what to say except-” the Pegasus pony was interrupted when he felt a surge of pain run through his cheek.

        “Are you okay?” the pink haired pony asked.

        “I’m fine, just a little sore is all,” Caster said.

       “Here let me help,” Fluttershy said, leaning up and kissing him on his sore cheek. “Hope that feels a little better now.”

        “It does a little, thank you,” he said, appreciating the gesture.

        “Does it hurt anywhere else?” she asked.

        “Um it kind of hurts here,” the stallion said, pointing to the spot under his eye.

        Fluttershy leaned in again and kissed him at the designated spot.

        “And here,” Caster said, pointing to his nose.

        The mare kissed his nose, this time with more affection and let it last longer.

        “And… h-here,” the light brown Pegasus said, blushing as he pointed to his bottom lip.

        They both knew where this was leading and neither one of them wanted to point it out. The two ponies just wanted it to happen. So, more nervous than ever, Fluttershy slowly leaned closer to Caster’s head. Wanting to reach their moment sooner the stallion moved in as well. Before they knew it, their eyes were closed as their lips finally met. They felt each other’s warmth, unwavering as they had their first kiss. The other’s breath filled the other’s mouth as the held each other close. When the two of them eventually needed to catch their breath they parted and breathed, looking into one another’s eyes. There were truly no words to describe what they had just felt for the first time. Soon enough though the moment was cut short when Fluttershy felt something poke her side. She turned to see that it was Nina, who had just come back.

        “Oh hello Nina, where’ve you been?” she asked.

        To answer her question, the red squirrel squeaked at some nearby bushes. The two ponies turned to see a small chipmunk crawl out of the bushes. It slowly made its way toward them as it approached Fluttershy. The chipmunk was a bit hesitant about going any further to this stranger, but it looked at Nina and she nodded her head in approval. Being reassured, the little creature got closer to the mare. Fluttershy slowly reached a hoof out to the chipmunk in an attempt to pet it. It flinched at first but allowed itself to be petted.

        It was comforting to the creature, as it was a new sensation having never come into contact with ponies before. Fluttershy was also happy to have finally gotten to meet one of the fauna from the garden. The yellow Pegasus figured that Nina must have talked one of the woodland critters into meeting her. She was so busy enjoying the moment that she almost failed to notice the other creatures that were coming out of hiding. Seeing how one of their fellow friends approved of her, then this Fluttershy was okay to be around. Many of the animals gathered around the two ponies, knowing that there was nothing to fear.

        “Now that is what I call a perfect night ever,” Caster said, smiling.

        Fluttershy looked at him in a surprised expression. She had then realized that it was him who had made this gathering possible. There was nothing more to be said as she lunged forward, wrapped her hooves around him, and kissed him on the lips with more passion than the last. The animals remained quiet as they witnessed the display before them. Soon enough the two ponies departed from their kiss once more as they helped each other up.

        Caster and Fluttershy spent some more time with the critters of the garden before heading back into the ballroom. As they walked in they saw that most of the major partying had worn down. A lot of the ponies simply mingled or danced, having enjoyed this new change to the Gala. The light brown Pegasus flew up to the stage where Octavia and Vinyl still were and whispered something to them. They nodded in agreement and Caster went back to his new found love. Fluttershy followed him back onto the dance floor as the other party goers seemed to vacate it.

        Suddenly the band on stage had begun playing a romantic slow song with lyrics included. Caster led the yellow Pegasus in a slow, yet passionate dance. As the two new lovers danced throughout the night they thought of what would become of them now. What new challenges would arise in the future that they would have to face? However, looking into each other’s eyes they knew that all would be well. For now that they had each other, they could face anything that would come their way.