Chapter 2: The Training of FriendsView OnlineThe Tale of SentryChapter 2: The Training of FriendsChapter 2: The Training of Friends Pinkamena is reading and says, "Well seems like Flash is telling the tale of when he met Ben and who knew his real whole name was Ben Maregillian?" "Indeed , never knew as well but happy to know." Golden Heart comments, making the others nod. Well, back to the past... It was the next day as Ben was sleeping like a little foal, sleeping with his phoenix doll; But however he is in for a rude awakening when an alarm clock went off, causing the Earth Pony to yelp a bit. Ben got up to see Flash near his bed with the said alarm clock going off. "Up and at them, Sleeping Pony; come on, get up; get up!" Flash insists. Ben groans as he lies back down, pulling the covers over his head to get back to sleep. His friend however removes the covers and snaps, "Come on, time to get ready! Breakfast is ready!" The Pegasus colt holds up a bowl of oatmeal with two eggs and a daisy that looks like a happy face. "Look! Your meal is happy to see you." Ben sniffs the meal then yelps as his friend begins feeding him mouthful of oatmeal. The shy foal swallows while asking, "Flash, what are you doing here?" "Training and I need a training partner. So I select you. No worries." "What? Training...b-b-b-but..." "Ben, I am your best friend but even I can't be around all the time. If you want to stand up for yourself, you need to train and look better. Today will be your first day of training so no fighting and pay attention." Flash explains sternly to Ben. "Be nice with the other colts, unless one of them decides to play rough then kick his flank." "But I don't want to fight." Ben protests with his mouth full of oatmeal. "No speaking with your mouth full, Benjamin. Okay, you need something that could scare ponies. Give me your war face." Flash instructs. Ben pauses then gives him wide eyes...and cheeks full of food. His best friend doesn't look amused. "I think my imagination got scared off. Ben, come on! You can do better than that! Scare me, come on!" Ben swallows his food...and growls as loud as he could, nearly sending Flash back. The Pegasus pony laughs, "All right, we're getting somewhere! That's my kick flank hero; Time for you to get your flank out and show me what you got!" Ben got out of his best and follows Flash. Cadance was outside, smiling as she said, "There goes my little cousin, on a trip to prove himself to be a stallion..." This causes the pink Alicorn to shed a tear a bit. Flash took his best friend to the Royal Guards training area. He got the general and his father's permission to use it. The Pegasus colt is planning on helping Ben toughen up if he wants to be a brave hero somehow. "Okay, Ben. Let's start with training." Flash said to Ben with a nod. "Training," Ben gulped nervously. "I don't know, Flash. I don't think -!" "Don't think. Believe in it. That's what warriors do. They don't think of how and what, they believe in it, unless you had strategy to begin with." "But still -!" Flash interrupts, not having it, "Look, I know you haven't been much on the outside, but it doesn't mean that you shouldn't know anything. Who knows? Outside can be good, or bad, but you're gonna need it to face the problems. Do I make myself clear, soldier?" Ben thought for the moment before he sighed, "I guess." "Good. We begin with the basic." Flash said with a smile. He opened a box that has two gong-like objects. Flash approached Ben and tightened his hooves with the two gongs and ropes. He held the right one. "This shows wisdom." The future Royal Guard then held the left gong. "This shows strength." The colt drops both, almost causing Ben to hit the ground. Ben groaned, "Man! That hurt! Why are they so heavy?!" "To test your speed, strength, stamina and thinking, of course. And also it gives you confidence. I got this when my dad got back from the Land of Ma few weeks ago. It's quite useful; now for the test." Flash headed to the pole. He then pointed up. Ben looked up and gasped in shock. On top of the pole is an arrow which is stuck in it. It didn't take long for Celestia's son to figure out what his best friend wants him to do. "I had to get the arrow from the top?!" Ben asks Flash in shock and disbelief. "You're kidding me, right?" Flash sighed, "Military don't joke, Ben. No magic. No wings. No cheats. But with everything you got in both spirit and physical. So get that arrow, soldier!" "Yes sir!" The Earth pony exclaims. Ben headed towards the long pole. He then looked at his two gongs as he had thoughts. 'How the heck am I gonna do with these?! It's not like they're useful to me! How does Flash do that?' Ben shook his head as he started to climb the pole. For a few meters to the top, Ben's on the below of mid part of the pole. The colt panted, both tired and in exhaustion. Ben felt his body slipping. The colt screamed as he tried to hold tight onto the pole. But instead, Ben immediately fell to the ground and had his flank hurt. "OW!" Ben exclaims in pain, feeling like he is going to cry at any given moment. Flash groaned as he slapped his face, "Aw man! Never mind that. We move to the next training." Ben chuckled sheepishly. "We've got a long way to go." Flash passed the wooden stick pole to Ben as both of them readied to train. The Pegasus colt held his wooden pole in front of him. Flash used his pole's left side and lifted the pot up, followed by his right side and lifted it up. He spun his pole on the left and then right. The Pegasus slammed on the left pot, following by a pierce on the right pot. Flash then put his pole in front of Ben as he begins to sing. Flash: Let's get down to business To overcome your shyness Ben prepared to be train with his best friend, Flash. Hidden nearby without them knowing it, Blueblood levitated a small beetle-like on Ben's mane. Feeling itchy and slimy like something crawling on his mane, the colt went berserk as he quickly swung his pole on the left and right. Are you here to be funny Mystic Joker? Or be serious as the Mystic Warrior? Flash groaned in anger. Blueblood chuckled. Flash used the pole and hit it on the ground while he grabbed it tightly. Flash then hovered over to Ben. You're the saddest pal I ever met Flash approached Ben but instead had his chest hit by his pole when he tried to get something off from his mane. Ben swung his pole over Flash, but he dodged it down. The Earth Pony turned and saw the angry look on Flash's face. He took the pole away from Ben while showing his glare at the young prince. But you can bet Before we're through Mister, I'll make a warrior out of you At the woods, Flash fired his three arrows right at the target shoot. Ben released his one arrow. But instead, it hit the ground. Flash sighed in annoyance. Harmony as a nature Unleashed the will of fire On the edge of the mountain, the machinery arrow shooter is aiming at Flash. The Pegasus colt holds his shield on his right, prepared for the worst. The arrows shot right at him. Flash quickly blocked the attack with his shield. He marched forward towards the machine and turned it off. Once you find your inner strength You are sure to win Ben is next. The colt gulped upon looking at the machine. The arrows fly right at Ben who panicked as he quickly dodged the attacks as quickly as he can for few rounds. The shy pony quickly ducked down while covering himself with his shield. Flash sighed in annoyance as he turned the machine off while shaking his head. Ben removed his shield as he showed his sheepish smile to his friend. You're a spineless, pale Pathetic lot And you still haven't got a clue Somehow I'll make a warrior out of you Flash and Ben jogged throughout Canterlot. The latter panted in tiredness and exhaustion. Flash groaned as he hits on Ben's back hard to move out. The two friends continued their jogging while Ben groaned in tiredness. Ben: I'm never gonna catch my breath Flash: I'm gonna make you sure you work hard Ben: I'll do anything to overcome this problem Flash and Ben practiced their fighting and battling. The Earth pony colt kept dodging and moving back as his friend punched and punched. Flash then punched on Ben's muzzle, causing him to push back hard. Hardstone and Princess Celestia cringed in seeing Ben getting beaten up; From the distance of Princess Celestia, Tao sighed while shaking his head and having his hoof on his forehead. Hardstone: Flash overdid his training Celestia: Hope my son don't push himself hard. Tao: Now I really wish that I should have train him first Princess Celestia and Hardstone watched the event. Flash and Ben readied themselves in the battle as they both held their swords tight. They both charged and attacked at each other for several rounds and times. Ben gone back and back as he was about to strike, but instead, he had his back leg tripped by the tree's roots. Ben fell off from the edge, and started rolling over from his back and hit the trees one-by-one for a few times. Princess Celestia, Hardstone and Flash sighed in seeing Ben got knocked out at the last tree. Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash: We must be swift as the Mystic Pony of Serpent Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash: With all the force of a great Mystic Pony of Dragon Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash: With all the strength of a Mystic Pony of Phoenix Mysterious as the Mystic Pony of Shadows Flash and Ben had their backs weight with rocks and balls as they do their push-ups for several times. Flash managed to do about 50 push-ups. He looked up and saw Ben struggling to do his push-ups as the Earth pony had managed to do at least 5 push-ups. As Ben tried to push his body up again, his legs became sore and tired. He fell to the ground hard and struggled to get up. Flash threw his bags down as he sighed in disappointment. Ben looked up and saw his best friend's look. The rince sighed as he looked away. You've gotta overcome it Before problem comes Heed my every training And you might survive Flash and Ben had a discussion as his best knight show him the result of Ben's training which shocked and disappointed him a lot. Flash turned his back away from him and walked away. Ben sighed as he turned away with his face looked disappointing and upset. Ben then looked up and saw the pole again with its top still having the arrow. He got to try again and prove to Flash that he can be a warrior. You're unsuited for The rage of war So pack up, go home You're through How could I make a warrior out of you? Ben took two the gongs and tied them up to his hooves. The colt jumped and grabbed the pole tight but got dropped down instead. The colt groaned in anger and upset. Ben sighed as he is calming himself down. The future hero looked at his hooves again as he remembered of what Flash had said about 'wisdom' and 'strength'. Ben gasped as he finally figured it out. Ben swung his two gongs around the pole while it immediately tied them up. The colt started to climb it up, determined to get that arrow no matter what. While Ben continued to climb up, Flash took a peek from the wall. He smiled happily, upon looking at his best friend determinedly climbing on the pole as hard as he can. A few meters away, Ben was about to grabbed the arrow, but his back leg got slipped down. The colt firmly held his gongs tight as he continued to climb up. More Royal Guards and Royal Staffs, including Ben's mother and Hardstone came out and saw the event. Flash smiled as the arrow landed on the ground. Everyone cheered for Ben who is at the top of the pole, smiling and waving at his family and friends. Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash: We must be swift as the Mystic Pony of Serpent Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash: With all the force of a great Mystic Pony of Dragon Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash: With all the strength of a Mystic Pony of Phoenix Mysterious as the Mystic Pony of Shadows Flash and Ben trained together as they went through lots of training that the young prince had failed: archery, defending and marching heads on, sword battling, jogging and running across the land, swimming on the sea, climbing on the mountain and as well as the hoof battling. Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash and Ben: We must be swift as the Mystic Pony of Serpent Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash and Ben: With all the force of a great Mystic Pony of Dragon Chorus: (Be a warrior) Flash and Ben practiced their swinging and moving their poles around their bodies before they make the final strike in front of them. Flash and Ben: With all the strength of a Mystic Pony of Phoenix Mysterious as the Mystic Pony of Shadows In the present, Nyx looks amazed while saying, "Wow; Tough training." "Yeah, and right out of the movie 'Mulan', which has the good Eddie Murphy voice in it," Pinkie exclaims happily. "As usual, Pinkie, you are so random." Rainbow remarked, rolling her eyes at Pinkie's usual randomness. "Hey, Flash!" A familiar voice calls. The ponies saw Michael Trotter, the one who got on Brave Heart's bad side the other, appearing. "Hey, where's them shields at?" "They are in the barracks as usual, Michael." Flash remark to Michael, chuckling a bit. "Still clueless, I see." "Hey! At least I tried to remember stuff!" Michael snaps to Flash in irritation. "So wait, you two know each other?" Rarity asks the two Royal Guards curiously. "Know him? Buck, I trained this kid!" Michael remarked, motioning to Flash. "Language, Mr. Trotter! Language," Twilight scolded the Royal Guard for using language in front of the foals. "Oh, you're no bucking fun anymore!" Michael snaps to the princess in irritation. "Ignoring the rude pony, go on." Fluttershy said to the two ponies. Ben smiles as he continues, "Well, then..." Flash decides to give Ben his birthday gift, giving him a Royal Guard helmet. The Pegasus grins as he said, "Here Ben, this is your birthday gift. You'll be a great hero one day." "You sure," Ben ask a bit shyly. The colt was a shy one, not sure if he himself will make a good hero at all. "Now why would I lie to you when we're good friends?" Flash ask Ben with a smile. "Hey, Flash! Where is that bucking colt?!" A voice yells out from nearby, making Flash groans a bit. "Ugh, it's Michael Trotter. I gotta go or he will swear up a storm." Flash said. He heads off but trips, dropping a locket of some kind. "Oops!" "Let me get that for you." Ben said as he picks up the locket which is opened by the fall. The Earth pony notices a picture inside it. It is a unicorn filly with a bright orange coat, moderate cyan eyes, and a red and yellow mane and tail. "Say, who is the filly?" Flash blushes a bit as he explains, "That's Sunset Shimmer. We met at the local ice cream shop. The two of us hang out a while...well..." The colt gave a silly grin. "Let's say that even a Royal Guard got a life outside of his job ." Ben smiles to his best friend, slapping him on the back, saying, "Wow, that's great. I didn't know you got a fillyfriend." "Well, she is planning on entering your mom's school and hoping to become a student of hers. I am planning on rooting for her." Flash said to Ben with a grin. "Maybe someday you will have a special somepony of your own." "Oh, I don't know...no filly would be with me." Ben said, looking down a bit. "I am too shy...and how will my special somepony would even act if she knew of my connection to mom?" "Ben, relax. Someday, you will find that special somepony. And when you do, you will want to protect her all your life...liked how I am with you as a friend." Flash said to Ben with a smile of assuration. "You know... maybe you're right." Ben said with a smile of his own while looking up at his friend. "Yeah; Maybe I will introduce you to Sunset someday." Flash remarked with a chuckle. "Of course, Ben didn't meet Sunset in person until the incidents of the alternative human world." Flash said to the ponies in concern in the present. "And even then, we broke up our relationship when that happened." "But if you're lucky, she may come back...or date that other you." Phobos said. "Not being mean, just giving out wishful thinking." "But that event proved one of us right. I met Twilight...and ever since then, I vowed to keep her safe with my life." Ben comments, putting an upper foreleg around Twilight, making her blush happily. "Oh, Ben," Twilight giggles a bit while nuzzling her colt-friend. "Anyway, after Flash has made me do his thing, I decided it's time for him to make to do mine." Ben said as he continues the story. Flash groaned, "Seriously? Do I have to read this book?" The two are in Ben's room, reading a book that the colt insists that they read. Ben rolled his eyes while answering, "Hey, look who's complaining. I thought the warrior can handle anything, especially books. I mean you read the military books, battle strategy and history, and you can't even read these books?" "Simple, Ben. They're fakes. They're not even real." Flash complains to Ben. "Of course, they are. What do you expect? They're meant to be fun, not for serious matters." Ben said to Flash with a smile. Just because they are fake, doesn't mean that the stories aren't fun, right? Flash raised his eyebrow, asking, "Fun?" "You'd never had fun before?" Ben asked Flash who nodded his head, "Other than military stuff?" He shook his head. Ben sighed. Poor Flash. "Well, I'd say we start with this first. This is my favorite: Space Pony Wars, written by the best author and filmmaker: Lucas Star." Flash groaned, "Well. I hope you're right." The Pegasus colt hates to regret this later. Flash start reading the first book: Space Pony Wars. A few hours later, Flash smiled in enjoyment and impressed, the colt is enjoying this. He closed the book and then turned to Ben. "I guess I was wrong to judge the book." Flash said to Ben. The Pegasus actually enjoyed this book. Ben chuckled, "Trust me. Like everypony had said before, don't judge the book's cover until you see it." Flash chuckled, "I guess so. But you're right one thing. It's also part of the Royal Guards' rules. Always be aware of the appearance especially the ambush." "So, wanna continue?" Ben asks Flash with a smile. He knows his friend can read books some more now if the colt wants to. "So what else," Flash ask Ben with a grin. "Check this out." The Earth pony colt said. Ben took out another book called: 'Three Sworn Brothers.' "This is one of my favorite books, my mother brought it from Land of Ma. And this also involved her and these brothers. They were friends before. And of course, they said that Virtue Dragon, Blade Dragoon and Warpath Temper were the Mystic Ponies." "Really; Man, that's awesome. Royal Guards also talk about it too. These awesome," Flash said in amazement. He had heard of Mystic Ponies, greatest and powerful ponies ever. Shame they don't exist...or do they? "Right; let's check it out." Ben suggests to Flash as the two begins reading the book together. Unknown to them, Celestia and Cadance were watching in amusement. The latter comments, "Cousin Ben sure made a new friend, hasn't he?" "Yes, he even share books with him, especially involving my old friends the Mystic Ponies." Celestia said with a sigh. "Of course, the day will soon come when Ben must leave the castle and make new friends." "Are you going to enlist him in the local Canterlot school?" Cadance asked her aunt curiously. Celestia nodded, saying, "Yes. It's time for Ben to be with other foals his own age." Ben and Flash walking across the streets of Canterlot while looking around with their happy faces. Ben followed Flash as they both brought the ice-cream and ate it. Ben looked at Flash who ate it quickly with on swift, but instead, his mouth is filled with cream. Ben laughed happily as we hear him singing. Ben: Sometimes I think I'll be fine in my closet 'Cause a fear is a nightmare that I cannot overcome It's easy to feel like nopony ever bother me But it's harder to know my own path Flash took Ben to the Skateboard Park of Canterlot where the two wore skateboarders' gears. They both are at the top of the ramp. Ben shivered in fear. Before he could do anything, Flash patted on Ben's back, causing him to fall and start skating on the left and right sides. Feeling feared, worried and scared, Ben remained keeping his eyes open. His sensation changes when he continued skating on his board. Ben smiled happily like he came out from his shell. Flash smiled as he quickly got on board his skateboard and begin skating around. Both Ben and Flash continued skating their skateboards and they showed their smiles. You change my ways when you taught me how to be confident and everything's bright From beginning to the end when I have a friend by my side That helps me to find the path I chose When I open my heart and believe in the Light of Best Friend The Light of Best Friend Flash trained Ben through the fighting and battling in using the swords, shields and spears. They swung the attacks at each other for a while. Flash swung his sword against Ben's sword, causing him to fall down. Flash sighed in annoyance. Before he could do anything, Flash saw Ben struggled and determined to get up while holding his sword tight. The Pegasus colt smirked and so as the Earth Pony colt. Both of them charged in and swung their swords. Flash: I'd never know how to feel when I'm alone or feared of something There through to our darkest hour Someone to count on, someone who cares Beside you wherever I'll go Ben and Flash read the books together about the story from 'Land of Ma' that involved the tales of 'Virtue Dragon', 'Azure Phoenix' and many more. They both smiled as Ben and Flash imagined themselves about being heroes like them. You change my ways when you taught me how to be confident and everything's bright From beginning to the end when I have a friend by my side That helps me to find the path I chose When I open my heart and believe in the Light of Best Friend The Light of Best Friend Ben and Flash climbed on the mountain for training and fun. For few meters away, the son of Celestia tried to climb up but the small rock that he grabbed broke off. Flash quickly grabbed Ben at once. Ben and Flash studied and worked on the battle strategies or homework. The Pegasus pony groaned in pain as he had a big headache. Ben came in and helped Flash in solving and helping him understand about the equations and battle strategies. Ben: And when my hope crashes down Flash: Scattered across the Equestria Ben and Flash: You, you feel all alone When you don't know which way to go And there's no signs leading you on You're not alone Ben and Flash were outside of Canterlot's gate as both prepared and readied to race. They both start running across the gate entrance of Canterlot, followed by the street before entering the castle. Ben: The world comes to life and everything's alright Flash: From beginning to the end when you'll have a friend by your side Ben: That helps you to find the path you chose Flash: When you open your heart and believe Both Ben and Flash arrived at the Canterlot Castle's garden. They both pant in exhaustion and tiresome. The two both landed on the ground, and then looked at each other. Ben and Flash laughed and chuckled in happiness. Both of them stood up and had their hooves around their shoulders while laughing and chuckling. Both of them looked up at the sun. Ben and Flash: When you believe in When you believe in My Light of Best Friend "Awwww!" The CMC exclaims in the present, smiling happily. That was a nice time of friendship. "Shucks, 'dat whole experience...nice. Yew would've been a member o' a Stallion Six, Flash!" Applejack comments to Flash in amusement. "Well, I prefer just be more than Six." Flash remarked with a chuckle. "How about Sunset Shimmer? How does she feel about Ben?" Twilight ask Flash curiously, wondering if her former enemy knew about Ben before that confrontation in the alternative human world. "Well, I only told bits about Ben to Sunset, but not all of it. Anyway, we thought to be continuing our free days forever. But then it happens." "Let me guess: daddy started school with mommy?" Nyx ask Flash with a smile. "Correct." Flash said with a smirk as he continues the story. Author's Note And thus the story continues. How will Flash feels about Ben going to a new school? And what will happens when his friend tells him about Twilight? Read, review and suggest. The breakfast scene and the song 'I'll make the Warrior out of you' Flash sang is inspired and based on 'I'll make a Man out of You' from Mulan. 'Light of My Best Friend' that Ben and Flash sang is inspired and based on 'Gift of a Friend'.
Chapter 3: Benjamin's School TimesView OnlineThe Tale of SentryChapter 3: Benjamin's School TimesChapter 3: Benjamin's School Times Pinkamena is reading but was also writing a letter to somepony as she says, "I wish I could go and hear the tale myself but I have many things to do and such." Golden Heart nods as he speaks, "Well you know Omega keeps things in check and our own gang." "Yeah but still after what happen, I rather be more careful." Pinkamena remarked, referring to what happened to her recently. The others nod as she is done with the letter and puts it away and says in mind, 'Later I will send this to Arctic Gem. I wonder how will she react to knowing somepony dear to her is alive and well.' Celestia enters her son's room, ready to tell him the most exciting news. She came in just in time to see Ben drawing a picture. Upon seeing her, the young colt grins and said, "Mommy, look! I made a picture of us!" Ben holds up the picture that he just finished: one of himself and Celestia which said the words 'Mommy and Ben Mare'. The princess grins, finding her son's work so wonderful. "You did wonderful, Ben." Celestia said, nuzzling Ben happily. "Oh, I got good news. I have arranged for you to go to school at a normal place for fillies and colts." "What? Mommy...I don't know..." Ben said shyly and scared. "I wanted to stay here with you." "Ben, I can't keep you in the palace forever. You need to be with foals of your own age, make some new friends and have fun. Don't worry. The school staff has promised not to let anypony knows of your connection to me. You will be as if you were a regular Earth pony." "But mommy...what if the foals don't like me?" "Nonsense, I am sure that you will find a friend or so at your school." Celestia assures her son Ben gently. "Besides, you are getting lonely, even with Cadance and the servants here. It's about time that you meet somepony who would have an impact on your life." "Are you sure?" Ben asks Celestia hopefully. The colt is lonely and it would be nice to have some new friends at last. "I'm sure. I'm your mother after all." Ben grins as he nuzzles Celestia, his mother, and said, "Mother, I will try to make some new friends. I will be the best pony at the school." "Let's settle for the best friend for some lucky pony...and the best son ever." Celestia said as she nuzzles Ben. The mother is confident that her baby foal will find a new friend at his new school. Ben explains to Flash that his mother Celestia has enlisted him to a school in Canterlot, which means the Earth Pony colt won't be able to stay at home all the time anymore. "So let me get this straight: your mom is going to enlist you to school?" Flash ask Ben curiously. "Yeah," Ben said with a slight nod. "That's great! You should get more friends. It would be awesome!" Flash exclaims eagerly. It would be great for his best friend to get more friends at last! He noticed Ben's look. "What's with the face? Aren't you happy?" "Happy; I don't want to go, Flash. I want to stay here with my mom, with my cousin, with everyone I know, and especially you. You're my best friend." Flash sighed, "Look, Ben, I know you care for us so much, but it doesn't mean it change our friendship. Going to school means making some friends, and also it might also be your chance to find special somepony too." Ben sighed, "I don't know." What filly in her right mind would want to be seen with somepony like him? "Don't say 'don't know'! Say I believe in it. Trust me, Ben, having new friends in your friendship doesn't make me angry or upset, it makes us strong. It gives you confidence. It will never change our friendship." "How do you know that?" "Simple: always had faith no matter what. I'd always had faith that you will be fine, and find your friend. But remember, if there's a bully, kick his flank." Flash said to Ben with a smile. He is confidence that his best friend will do fine in his school. Ben chuckled, "Yeah, you're right. So you're sure that I can make one?" Flash smiled while repeating a familiar line, "Now why would I lie to you when we're best friends?" Ben and Flash chuckled happily as they hugged together. "And so, afterwards..." Ben begins to say, though Phobos interrupts. "Hold it. Nyx and I already heard of your school time. Do we have to hear it again?" Phobos ask Ben impatiently, not wanting to hear the same thing. "And I betcha the rest of the Mane Six heard the story from Twilight before as well." "Well, true, but even some stories are worth hearing again." Nyx remarks to Phobos with a chuckle. "Plus, I wasn't really paying attention to Twilight when she told me about her crush." Rainbow comments, making Twilight frown at her a bit. "Typical." Twilight mumbles a bit. "Mom, I don't want to come." Young Ben said to his mother meekly. "The other foals won't like me. Can't I stay at the castle with you?" "Ben, I know how hard it is, being around new foals besides me and the servants." Celestia assures her adopted child while nuzzling him. "But I can't keep you at the castle forever. You need to be with other foals your age. No worries, the staff here are sworn to secrecy. If you want others to know, you can do so on your own free will." "But...what if I get bullied and hurt?" "Then they will answer to me. Come on, let's go on." Ben gulps a bit as Celestia enters the school through another way. The little colt is worried that today may be the worst day of his life...but unknown to him, he is only half right. Twilight was in class with her other classmates, studying in a book when a teacher makes an announcement. "All right, class; settle down." The teacher said as the foals quiet down to allow him to say his announcement. Now then, we got a new student joining us today so try to make him feel welcome. Class, this is Ben Mare." A little colt came into the class looking a bit meekly while his supplies are on his back; he is a brown coated Earth Pony and has a spiky like brown mane, green eyes and a long tail. Twilight notes how he tends to cross his legs a bit as if he's shy. "Hi...everypony," Ben said meekly. This causes some of the students to laugh a bit. The colt looks down as if wanting to hide or just leave already. "Okay, class, come on; stop that." The teacher said sternly as the class quickly calms down. "Ben is new here so let us at least try to be nice to him like Celestia would all her subjects. Now, Mr. Mare, you can take a seat near Miss Sparkle." Ben nods meekly as he heads to a seat that so happens to be near Twilight. A younger Boris smirks as he sticks one lower hoof out...causing the poor Earth pony to trick and land onto the floor. The students laugh at this...minus Twilight who doesn't find what happened funny at all. "Boris, I told you before; don't do that to the new students!" The teacher scowls at Boris who chuckles at his cruelty. "What? Sorry, is it my fault that he doesn't watch his four hooves?" Boris asks innocently. Ben got up sadly as he gets his stuff and sat near Twilight. The purple unicorn smiles while saying, "Hi, my name is Twilight Sparkle. Welcome to our school." "Uh, hi," Ben said a bit meekly as he took out a book to hide himself in it. Twilight sighs sadly. The poor colt has a rough first day. For some reason, Twilight felt...some sort of connection to Ben...like she should do her best to help him. At recess, Twilight plays on the swings while her focus appears to be off. Normally, she wants some learning and studying done...but the purple unicorn couldn't keep her eyes off of Ben who is under a tree doing some reading, away from the other students. It seems like it's hard for him to make some friends. Unfortunately for poor Ben, his first day is about to get worst. Twilight saw Boris, his boys Boxco and Dum-Dum as well as some students heading to him. This is not good. That red unicorn is considered a popular student by some foals at school. He prefers unicorns and Pegasi over Earth ponies but wouldn't hesitate in making fun or bullying them! And unfortunately, Ben Mare has become his new target. "Well, well. Check this out, everypony; it's the new Earth pony." Boris remarks. Ben looks up at him as some of the bully's group chuckles a bit. "What are you doing here, pray tell?" "More like he's being a geek, staying away from the other ponies," Dum-Dum said to Boris with an evil smirk. "Yeah, the bum thinks that he himself is safe. Boo pony who!" Boxco remarks with a sneer. "Please leave me alone. I didn't do anything wrong." Ben said meekly. He yelps in alarm as Boris uses his magic to force him into the air. He likes doing this to Earth ponies, making them helpless for him to bully. "We got one big rule here at the school: unicorns and Pegasi rule while the Earth ponies are just filth whose just need to stay out of our way." Boris sneers to Ben who looks down in worry. "But I digress. Who wants to see me turn him around until he's sick?" Some of the students, even the dimwit minions, cheers as Boris laugh cruelly as he begins spinning Ben around. The poor Earth pony groans as the bully then drops him then picks him up via magic as if wanting to do this all day. Ben then yelps as if Boris was trying to pull a wedgie on him by pulling on his tail...despite the fact that the poor colt isn't wearing any clothes! Twilight frowns as she leaves the swing. This has gone far enough! "How do you like that, Earth Pony moron?!" The red Unicorn taunted. "Boris, Boris, enough!" Twilight snaps angrily. Boris stops his tormenting of Ben to look at her. "Leave him alone! What did he ever do to you?" "Nothing, we just wanted torture him like using sand on ants with the moon!" Dum-Dum explains as Boxco laughs with him. "That's magnifying glass with the sun, Dum-Dum." Boris groans to Dum-Dum in annoyance. His minion, even Boxco, is always getting sayings wrong! "Is that supposed to be funny, Boxco?! To answer your question, Twilight, I need to teach this Earth pony colt how things are in Canterlot, especially when it comes to what's more better." "No pony is better than the other, Boris! You know that! Princess Celestia tells us to love and tolerate one another!" Twilight snaps angrily to Boris. "We shouldn't harm or pick on ponies just because we think we're better than them. Now put Ben down!" "All right, all right. I will lay off the pony with the female last name...if you go out with me next weekend." "Ugh! I ain't humiliating myself by doing that!" "Fine, have it your way." Boris remarks with a shrug as he lets Ben go, causing him to hit the ground. "You got lucky, Ben. But stay in your place or next time, I'm going to get rough." Boris's group took their leave; Ben sniffs sadly as he got up to get his things. Twilight helps him while asking, "Are you okay?" "I'm fine, I am really." Ben sighs sadly. "Why does that creep hate me?" "Boris has some dumb idea that unicorns and Pegasus ponies are more better than Earth ponies all because of the fact one species used magic and the other can fly. Horse feathers to that! Earth ponies are very important in the history of our world!" "And...why did you help me?" Twilight pauses to think. Why did she help him? The purple unicorn usually stay out of Boris's bullying but this time it's different as if something is calling her, telling Twilight to step in and stop the creep this time. "The truth is, I can't stand what Boris is doing...I mean picking on you all because you are an Earth pony and new here." Twilight said while stomping one hoof on the ground. "It's just not right!" "It's okay...you don't have to help if you don't feel like you should." Ben sighs in sadness. "I don't have to...I don't want to. I won't let Boris and his pals torment you and bully you around. I will keep you safe no matter what. I promise." Ben pauses and smiles a bit. For some reason, this is the first time that he has ever made...a friend. Well, first time outside of Flash Sentry anyway. "Thank you." Ben said as he and Twilight hug each other. And thus, it's a start of a new friendship. Ben and Twilight became good pals. To avoid Boris and his goons, they hung out in a certain place at school. "This is my secret spot!" Twilight giggles as she led Ben into the place. "I never led any other ponies in here." "Really, how come," Ben asks Twilight curiously. "Because it's a secret," Twilight adds with a happy giggle. "That's pretty cool." Ben said with a smile. "Thanks." Twilight said as she took out a donkey like doll. "This is Miss Smartypants. I got her as long as I could remember; she is my closest thing to a friend besides my big brother Shiny. Look! She even comes with her own notebook so she can help you with your homework." "Wow, nice. I got a doll myself..." Ben said then looks a bit sheepish. "Please don't make fun of me..." "Oh, come on. Only meanies would make fun of ponies for having dolls." Twilight giggles a bit, making Ben smile a bit. "Thanks..." Ben said with a grin. Suddenly he yelps as Twilight pokes him on the nose. "Hey!" "Tag, you're it!" Twilight laughs as she gallops off quickly. "Oh, you rascal; I'll get you for this!" Ben shouted playfully as he started chasing after Twilight. Ben chases around Twilight for a while then tackles her. The two laughs as the colt has pinned her...then stop to look at each other, giving friendly smiles... Just then, a bell is heard ringing, making Ben get up while saying, "Uh oh. There's the bell." "Right," Twilight said with a nod as she got up, giving another smile. "How about next recess, it will be you and me? Come on." "Yeah. Right," Ben nodded as he and Twilight headed off to class. School is over as Ben was taken home a while later. After telling his mother as to what has happened, he then tell his friend who isn't pleased...mostly because of Boris's bullying of him. "So this Boris is bullying you? Ben, why the hay didn't you fights back?" Flash ask Ben in disbelief. "I taught you everything you know of; Wait, don't say it again; still shy, again?" Ben meekly answers, "Yeah......" Flash slapped his face, groaning in disbelief, "Aw man! Benjamin Mare! Seriously! Why am I gonna do?! I should have been there for you! But I can't because my dad said that it would give you problems! If those ponies find out of your connection as well as mine, then you would be in critical situation!" Ben sighed, "Sorry." Flash sighed, "Never mind. Anything else you should tell me?" "Well, I did make a friend with Twilight Sparkle." "A filly?" "Eeyup," Ben said to Flash, making the Pegasus colt amused upon hearing that. So his best friend did make a new friend. And from the blush coming from Ben's face... Flash smiled, speaking, "Alright. What is she? Is she a unicorn, Earth Pony or Pegasus?" "A Unicorn; She's beautiful......." Flash whistled, "Someone sure know how to pick a filly. Looks like my Benny boy's got a little crush, huh?" "Excuse me?!" Ben asks Flash, startled by the question as if wondering what his best friend is suggesting. Flash chuckled, "Ben and Twilight sitting on the tree." "I'm gonna get you for that, Flash!" "Be a warrior, Ben! Show me what it takes for you to become one. If you can, then Boris won't know what hit him!" "You ask for it!" The Earth pony laughs as Ben chased after Flash. The Pegasus colt loves doing this! It was the next day as the foals return to school, even Ben. The colt notices how some of the students seems to ignore him but that's okay. As long as Twilight is around, Ben has nothing to fear. Of course, things got a bit rough. As Ben was heading to class, he was knocked down by three familiar bullies. Boris taunts, "Hey, still not watching your hooves, Girly Pony?" "Ha ha ha," Boxco laughs stupidly. "He is blind as a monkey!" "Yeah, and dumb as a warthog," Dum-Dum remarked in agreement with his pal. Boris groans as he rolls his eyes saying, "It's 'blind as a bat' and 'dumb as an ox', you nitwits. Ugh, why are you two still living?" "Boris, come on, leave me alone." Ben said to Boris with a frown. "I just want a normal school day...and if I did anything to upset you yesterday that also made you make fun of me, then I'm sorry. I was hoping we would be pals." "Pals; PALS; Ha ha ha! You hear him, boys? He wants to be pals." Boxco and Dum-Dum laughs cruelly, making Ben feel a bit sheepish and concerned. Some students nearby watch the action, the colt feels like he wants to be elsewhere right now. "Benny, let me tell you something about yours truly: I don't make friends with Earth ponies." Boris sneers at Ben making him a bit worried. "They are useless, Earth filthy who are better off staying in low-dirt towns like Ponyville where they belong. Those species has no place in Canterlot." "But I heard of Earth ponies whose got important roles in Canterlot and..." Ben said meekly before Boris cuts him off. "Doesn't count; Those Earth ponies are lucky but they are still Earth filth to me. And so are you, so if I were you, I would know my place, got it?" "Leave them alone, Boris the Animal!" Somepony is heard shouting, much to Boris's annoyance. He hates being called 'Boris the Animal'; it makes him feel so...angry. "It's just...Boris! And who said that?!" Boris demands angrily as he looks around to see who spoke. "I did!" The one who spoke, Twilight, snaps as she pushes Boris aside. "I told you before, leave Ben alone!" "Ooooh, looks like the boss is getting told to by a girl." Dum-Dum remarks stupidly and mockingly. "Yeah, ha ha ha," Boxco laughs along with his pal but the two morons stops as Boris gives his pals a glare. "Boris, you even think of laying a hoof on him, I will tell the principal!" Twilight demands to Boris, getting in the school jock's face. "And don't think I won't because I will! I will even tell the princess if I have to!" "Fine, fine, Twilight, I will leave him alone...for now. Just make sure Ben learns his place." Boris said to Twilight with a frown. The last thing he wants is to get to the point that his chances of being with the filly are gone. "Boys, come on!" Boris leaves with Boxco and Dum-Dum quickly following him. Twilight sighs as Ben looks a bit concerned. Would she really tell the princess...and find out that Celestia is his mother? The colt doesn't feel like getting any attention if that information were to come out. "Thanks...for saving me." Ben said to Twilight with a smile. The colt is always happy to see her there for him. "Ben, don't worry, I promise to keep you safe and I will keep my promise." Twilight said to Ben with a smile. "We better hurry for class." The two foals quickly rush off, ready for a new day of learning and fun (during recess). "And thus, that is how Equestria was made once the three tribes stopped fighting." Twilight explains while reading off a book to Ben who listens in amazement. "Wow...and the princess was around back then?" Ben asks Twilight in interest. "Yes, though as a filly. The princess is ancient; she appeared to be around for a long time." "I know; How weird!" The two foals giggle and laugh, being as if the best friends since birth. Of course, a familiar colt is nearby using magic to open some nuts, growling at the scene before cracking the nuts, splitting them into pieces. One thing that you should never do to Boris: hang with Twilight whom he likes and wants for himself! As school was let out for the day, Ben was preparing to go home but as he passed by an alley, magic caught him. The colt yelps as he got dragged into the alley. Ben screams as he was hit by stuff via magic and was hit by hooves before being send to a wall. The Earth pony looks up frightened as Boris, Boxco and Dum-Dum confronts him. "Ben Mare, I was taking it easy on you before but when you started breaking one of my rules, you have to pay." Boris said seriously to Ben, "Boys?" "Never hang out with Twilight Sparkle." Boxco and Dum-Dum laughs evilly as Boris prepares to hit Ben again. "Hey!" A voice snapped, getting the bully and his goons' attention. The three turned and saw Shining Armor glaring at them. He was going to pick Twilight up to go to school when he overheard and noticed what was going on. "Gah; Oh, Shining! Didn't see you there," Boris exclaims nervously, making the goons a bit awkward. Shining, being Twilight's brother is tougher than all of these guys. They know better than to get on his bad side. "And what are you three doing to that colt?" Shining demanded more than he asked. "Looks like you were beating him up!" "Now, come on, we were only playing, right boys?" Boris asks his goons nervously. "Yeah, right; No problem," Boxco and Dum-Dum said nervously. Of course, the bruises and black eye on Ben said otherwise to Shining. "Listen, you three boys leave the poor colt alone, got it?" Shining snaps as he got into the trio of bullies' face. "If I find out that you're doing this to him again...well, you better hope that I don't! Now go! "Y-Yes, sir," Boris said quickly before he and his flunkies ran like the dickens, leaving the unicorn and the beaten Ben. "Ugh, jerks." Shining groans as Ben got up barely. "Hey, you okay?" "I'm fine, I'm fine, sir." Ben groans a bit as he manages to get his things. Despite the injuries, the colt didn't suffer anything worst. "You must be that new friend that Twilight told me that she likes." Shining said in concern. "She always told me how an Earth pony got picked on or worst." "I'm fine; I just need to go home now." Ben groans as he tries to go on home. "Colt, you need to see a doctor." Shining insists as he follows Ben out of the alley. "Shining?" A familiar voice spoke up. Twilight appear, ready to be picked up from school. "What..." She gasped while galloping to the injured. "Ben! Oh, Ben, what happened?" "Boris and his goons jumped me and beat me up. If it weren't for Shining here, it would've been worst." Ben sniffs a bit, rubbing his black eye. "Don't do that, please." Twilight insists with tears in her eyes, not liking that Ben is rubbing his black eye like that. "Let's get you to a doctor." "No, no...I will just head on home...yeah..." Ben groans as he heads on his way, walking okay. "Are you sure?" Shining ask Ben in concern. The young colt nods at this. "Okay, just try to be careful. "Ben..." Twilight said as Ben stops to see the tears shedding down her faces. She promised to protect him but couldn't do it this time. "I'm sorry..." Ben came home, a bit hurt but okay. His mother found out about his injuries and is a bit disappointed but at least she manages to help him and is able to help him in his problem. And of course, as usual, Ben told his best friend what has happened, much to Flash's dismay and anger. "Dang it, Ben; why the hay didn't you tell me about it?!" Flash snaps to Ben who winces in his bandages. "That's it! That Boris is going down! I'll make him pay!" "You can't! He got magic! Meaning he can do whatever he wants! You'll be beaten easily." Ben protests to Flash, fearing for his best friend's safely. "Then, he's a coward! A coward who abuse his popularity and powers all for himself than thinking or giving chance to others." Flash said, disgusted by how Boris is using his popularity and power for his own use. "Unlike you, you're had some thinking of others. I won't stand for this." "Come on, Flash! The last thing I want is to get you in trouble. Please, Flash, I will be fine." Ben insists to Flash, not wanting his best friend to get hurt because of him. "Besides, I have Shining Armor, Twilight's brother. So, don't worry about it." Flash sighed, "Alright. Promise me not to get into any problems again." "I promised." Ben assures Flash with a nod. The next few days end up being well. Ben remains hanging out with Twilight. And although Boris and his goons, the boss is angry because Night Light and Celestia told the principal as to what he has done causing him to get detention, causes more trouble, Twilight and Shining always chase them off or stood up for him. While in class, Ben was writing when Twilight came up, giving him a note. The colt looks puzzled as he asks, "What's this?" "An invite to my party," Twilight giggles happily to Ben. "You would come, right?" "Well, uh yeah, sure." Ben said, a bit hesitant and concerned. He knows that Boris will come and crash the party should the colt go there. "Goodie! See you there!" Twilight giggles a bit, nuzzling Ben before trotting off. Ben looks concerned. How will he explains this to Flash? "I don't know. The last thing I want is that stupid Boris....." Ben said to Flash, explaining Twilight's invite to him to the Pegasus colt while adding his worry about Boris ruining things. Flash scoffed, "Don't worry, I'll be watching your back." "But what if......" Ben begins to say but Flash cut him off quickly. "Hello! Earth to Ben! I'm a Pegasus. That means I fly in the air, and he won't see me coming. It will be fine. If he's trying something funny, I'll make him pay. After all, it's what best friends for." Flash insists to Ben, planning to watch his best friend's back and make sure that jerk Boris won't try anything. "Yeah, I guess so." Ben said with a nod. Who knows? Maybe he would be all right after all. "Wow; Apparently Flash is like your major bodyguard." Rainbow comment to Ben, impressed. "He learnt from the best, moi." Michael boasts, making the others roll their eyes at this comment. "Even I don't boast that much." Rainbow remarks dryly. "Well, go on. Continue on with the story involving Flash!" Scootaloo exclaims. Ben chuckles as he continues on with the story. Twilight's parents were busy so some of other Sparkle family members agree to host the party in the park, so it's easy for Ben and Cadance to arrive without a problem. Ben looks a bit anxious as he saw Twilight playing 'Pin the Tail on The Pony' with some classmates. The colt hopes that the filly would like his present. "Well, here goes." Ben said to himself quietly. The colt prepares himself... "EARTH FILTH,” A voice is heard roaring. Ben yelps as he was pushed to the ground by Boris, still angry as ever. His goons watch on, waiting anxiously. "Boris? You know, I didn't think Twilight invited you." Ben said to Boris as the Earth pony got back to his hooves. "We invited ourselves on Twilight's behalf." Boris remarks to Ben furiously. "Really; I thought we decided to gate crash or something." Boxco said in confusion. "Shut it! You're in trouble, Ben. Because of you, I got months of detention!" Boris snaps to Ben, obviously blaming him for the jock getting into detention thanks to Boris and his goons beating him up the other day. "Well, it's your fault for beating me up." Ben points out to Boris with a frown. "You brought that on yourself." "Oooh, he got you there, boss." Dum-Dum said with a smile, but yelps as Boris gave him a glare. "Earth filth, this may be Twilight's party but I am not scared of beating you up and proving you useless in front of her." Boris remarks to Ben angrily. Some of the party goers watch this going on, even Twilight who gasps and tries to get over to break the fight up. "No one, not even dirt like you, goes near what's mine." "Twilight isn't yours to have!" Ben exclaims upset to Boris but yelps as the jerk push him back. "She is and she always will be, Earth Filth!" Boris snapped before he pushed Ben again, knocking him to the ground. Shining quickly interferes at this point, "Stop pestering Ben, Boris the Animal!" "It's just...Bor-." Boris begins to growl angrily, but Shining cuts him off. “Don't correct me. Especially you, Dum-Dum,” Shining said to Boris then turns his attention to Dum-Dum, much to the colt's confusion. "Uh...me," Dum-Dum ask Shining in confusion. "Yeah; you," Shining said as he gave a mischievous grin to the unicorn. "For hurting Ben, you owe me...gum-gum." "What's gum-gum?" Dum-Dum asks his pals in confusion. "He means gum, Dum-Dum!" Boxco explains to Dum-Dum in worry. "That's right. Your name is Dum-Dum, so you give me...gum-gum for hurting Ben." Shining remarked to Shining, getting a bit more devilish. "Uh...gee, uh...Look, sorry, Shining Armor, but I have no gum-gum and I don't have time for this little game." Dum-Dum said nervously. The unicorn doesn't like where this conversion is going and wants out of it now. "Come on, guys. Let's get out of here." "Dum-Dum, you coward." Boris growls angrily to Dum-Dum. He turns his attention to Shining, adding, "Just you wait, Shining Armor! Just you wait. I'll have...your sister as my filly. Make no mistake about that!" Shining scoffs at that, "In your dreams, Boris the Animal." "It's just...Boris!" Boris snaps but yelps as Shining pushes him, causing him and his goons to make their getaway. "Have a good day, Boris the Animal!" Shining taunts Boris as the bully makes his departure. "BORIS, BORIS, BORIS, BORIS, BORIS, BORIS!" Boris yells angrily at Shining as the head creep makes his escape. Shining pauses then adds, "....The Animal." Boris cringes, stopping his departure to add, "Just you wait, Shining. Just wait. You can't protect that Earth Pony filth forever. You're gonna be sorry." Shining sarcastically answers, "Yeah, right, sure, when I go around wearing a dress in public. NOT!" The colt waits until the trio of bullies leaves the scene. That will teach them. "Ben, are you okay?" "I'm fine. Thank you, Shining," Ben said to Shining with a sigh of relief. "That was some display of courage you got there." Cadance notes, pointing out how Ben stood up to Boris for a while. "I know, I know...it's just...I wish I wasn't so shy or scared all the time." Ben said while looking down in sadness. "No worries, someday, kid, you will have the courage to face those challenges." Shining assures Ben while patting the colt on the back, making him smile a bit. "Ben? Are you all right?" Twilight ask Ben as the crowd begins to disperse, allowing the filly to come over to him. "Yeah, I'm fine, Boris didn't hurt me too much this time." Ben assures to Twilight. "I promise that I didn't invite that creep and his goons over here." Twilight pleads to Ben in concern. "I didn't want him to harm you again!" "It's okay, it's okay. I'm fine, look, no bruise." Ben assures Twilight with a slight chuckle. Twilight smiles in relief then spots a present in Ben's saddlebag, asking, "Is that for me?" "Yeah, got it just for you," Ben said as he took out a present and gave it to Twilight, "Happy birthday, Twilight." "Oh, Ben," Twilight giggles as she opens the present up. To her surprise and delight, inside is a book that said 'History of Ponyland/Equestria: From Its Beginning to Now', "Ben, where did you get this?!" "Got some ways," Ben said with a smile as he winks to Cadance who winks him back in secret. The two has picked it up with Celestia's help. "Thank you." Twilight said as she nuzzles Ben, making him blush a bit. "You're welcome." Ben said as he slowly started nuzzling back. "Awww, how cute," Cadance giggles as she and Shining watch this scene. "I think Ben is liking her." "Yeah...but why are you defending him?" Shining ask Cadance puzzled. "I was just bringing him over here. No need to ask any further questions, right?" Cadance ask Shining slyly, poking him on the nose. Shining blushes then smiles as he nuzzles Cadance. Suddenly, two familiar foals laugh from nearby. "Shame, shame," Ben teases the two. "We know your name!" Twilight teases alongside her friend. The two foals laugh a bit, having fun at the party. Eventually, it was time for Twilight to head off to get her usual birthday donut at Donut Joe's...and Ben was happy when his friend invites him to come along. Maybe he could get a donut too! Of course, three certain bullies have follow the two 'lovers' in secret, planning on another 'attack' without Shining around to get in the rway. While following Ben and Twilight heading to Donut Joe's restaurant, before Boris and his gang could do anything, something swoop both Boxco and Dum-Dum and threw them into a trash can. Boris looks around, demanding angrily, "Show yourself," Before he could do anything, the bully was swooped up and threw into another trash can. Boris groaned angrily, "When I get out of this trash, I'm gonna rip that punk out!" While flying in the air, Flash smirked and snickered, "Not as long I'm still here, you buster brainiac." The Pegasus colt turned and saw Ben and Twilight talked while walking to the restaurant. Flash sighed, "At least, nothing can go wrong with those two." "And so we did, especially when it involves getting my first donut." Ben explains to his friends with a smile. "Of course, I've told Nyx and Phobos about that moment." "Sounds like so far, all you did was use some bucking scenes from previous stories instead of making some horse-crap stuff up." Michael remarks with a scoff. Just then a familiar mare come in and stared at him with anger. Flare Tiger angrily yell, "Michael!" Michael shocked yelps, "Aw, horse-apple!" He's in trouble now! Flare Tiger cast magic to pull Micheal's ear while doing a stare down at him. She sighed, "Time-out for ya." Flare Tiger dragged him out while he screams. The others laughs while Rarity comments, "My, he deserved that." "Ah done agreed wit' ya on 'dat one." Applejack remarks with a grin to Rarity. "So anyway, after Ben get a glimpse of his own powers without him knowing it and as time passed..." Flash said then chuckle a bit. "Little Benny finally realize his feelings for Twiley...something he told me after telling his mother..." "So, you finally admit it?" Flash ask Ben with a smirk while the two trains some more with their swords. The Earth pony colt told his best friend of his newfound love for Twilight Sparkle. "Yeah; and you know what? You're right from the beginning." Ben said with a happy smile. "I'd never thought that I would find my friend but as a special somepony. It's great." Flash smiled while speaking, "Yeah, you bet . If that really happen, we can meet up together at your castle with Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer." "What?! I don't know. I think it's -!" Flash chuckled, "I was joking, Ben. It's your choice to make with Twilight. When that time comes, you decide to tell her since you and her are destined to be one." Ben smiled, saying, "Yeah, I guess. So, anyway, since you had done it before with Sunset Shimmer, I need some advice." "I thought you'd never ask. Okay, here's how it goes....."
Chapter 4: The Hidden StoryView OnlineThe Tale of SentryChapter 4: The Hidden StoryChapter 4: The Hidden Story Blaze Leo gasped, "Whoa, what happened?!? What next? What next?" They looked at the five children as confused, Iris Heart Shield step in. Iris Heart asked, "Is it okay for us to join in?" Twilight asked, "How... How did you come in here?" Ace Swift laughed, "Mom brought us here then we saw her drag that stallion! He's screaming like a mad mare!" Iris Heart sighed, "When mom drag him off, she told us to enter to listen to the story about Flash Sentry and Ben, so here we are." Midnight Moonlight groaned, "Why's this again? I don't want to do this!" Applejack asked, "Again? What's 'da meant?" Blaze Leo hissed, "Midnight! We're Pinkie Promised mom!" Pinkie Pie gasped as she pulled scroll out of her mane and read through which Pinkie Promise was made by which pony, then the Earth pony found it as she looked at Midnight Moonlight angrily. Pinkie grumpy snaps, "Blaze Leo's right! You broke your Pinkie Promise!" They stand back away from Pinkie's outburst as Midnight Moonlight shanked in fear. Midnight Moonlight whined, "Honesty! I never said how! How! HOW! Mom told us, never said about again when there's the same story! I NEVER WANT TO SAY ANYMORE! PLEASE!" Pinkie stared Midnight Moonlight down as Comet Star walked in and is shocked as well as face-palm. Comet Star sighed, "So, that's why Flare Tiger told me to come here to pick up Midnight." Pinkie shocked asks Comet Star, "She knows?" Comet Star nodded as he took Midnight Moonlight out of the tree-house as they stared each other. Ace Swift spoke, "Never speak of this, again." Everyone nodded as they sat down and listen to Flash's and Ben's story. Flash spoke, "It was close to Hearts and Hooves Day and I told Ben to make the most amazing present ever to impress Twilight. He made one with Cadance's help and shown it to me..." It was close to Hearts and Hooves day. Ben holds the Equestrian Angel tightly while Flash patted on his shoulder. The colt is nervous, wondering if Twilight would love what he made her. "Everything will be fine, Ben. Twilight will love it. One day, you and her will be together. You guys are destined to be in love." Flash assures his friend with a smile. "You sure," Ben ask his friend hopefully. "Now why would I lie to you when we're good friends?" A while later, Ben put his gift to Twilight in a school bag, smiling. The filly would love this. He then looks at himself in a mirror then looks worried. Ben recalls that his teacher says that the students must look their best together...and saw his appearance in the mirror. Boris and the students would laugh at him...and Twilight would feel so embarrassed. A while later some more, Ben then heads into the bathroom with a razor that is used by the Royal Guards to trim their manes and coat. He hesitates a bit as he looks in another mirror. "I will do this, for Twilight." Ben mumbles as he prepares to use the razor to help make himself look good. The next day at school, it is Hearts and Hooves Days. The students had given their cards and gifts to one another. Boris grins as he gave a card to Twilight. "Here you go, Twilight. A gift from me," Boris said to Twilight slyly. "Uh, thanks." Twilight said, taking the card just to be polite. The filly doesn't like Boris but at least on Hearts and Hooves Day, she would at least try to tolerate him, right? "Hey, you think the Earth nerd won't show up?" Boxco ask with a stupid laugh. "Maybe if we're lucky, he won't. Who wants to give him a Hearts and Hooves gift anyway?" Dum-Dum remarks with a laugh with Boxco and Boris joining. "Don't make fun of Ben that way!" Twilight snaps to the trio of bullies angrily. "Yeah, don't make fun of Ben that way!" Boris snaps as he hits his goons on the head, pretending to be on Twilight's side. "And don't pretend that you're defending Ben, Boris! He will come, I just know it!" Twilight remarks to Boris sternly. "Has everypony got their gifts for Hearts and Hooves given?" The teacher asks with a smile. Most of the students said 'yeah'. "I haven't." A familiar voice said meekly. The students turn around, seeing a familiar colt...with a bag over his head and is wearing some sort of black coat over himself; Ben hands the Equestrian angel to Twilight, saying, "Happy Hearts and Hooves Day, Twilight." Some of the Students chuckle; the teacher looks puzzled as she asks, "Mr. Mare? Why are you wearing a paper bag and a coat, especially in this weather?" "Oh, I know! He's embarrassed by that pathetic gift." Boris sneers as the other students laugh at the angel that Ben made for Twilight. "All right, all right, you guys! Lay off, will ya?" Twilight shouted angrily, having enough of hearing the students laugh at Ben. "Mr. Mare? Mind taking the bag and coat off?" The teacher asks puzzled. "Err, I rather not..." Ben said meekly. "And why not," The teacher ask once more. "I can't...please don't make me take them off." Ben said with a whimper. It's as if he has something to hide that the colt doesn't want everyone else to see. "Aww, the wimp doesn't want to be seen with that gift." Boxco remarks with a laugh. "Yeah, he must be shy like a yellow Pegasus pony whose can't fly." Dum-Dum said in agreement. In the present, Fluttershy gasps in fright as she quickly rush to the couch and hid under the blankets. The mare shivers a bit as she got the same feeling that the Pegasus has gotten years ago. "Well, now I know who to blame for freaking Fluttershy out unknowingly." Rainbow remarks dryly, now knowing that it was Dum-Dum who freaked out Fluttershy for comparing Ben to Fluttershy. "Come on, there's no reason to be ashamed." The teacher said gently, trying to talk Ben into getting rid of the paper bag and coat. "I don't have a good reason to be mane...err, to do so, sir." Ben explains to the teacher nervously. Boris smirks evilly as the colt continues, "I am not hiding anything." "Oh, not hiding anything? How about NOW," Boris taunts as he uses his magic to quickly force the paper bag and coat off of Ben, spinning him around a bit. When Ben stops, the students, especially Twilight, and the teacher look surprised as the colt's secret is revealed; Ben's coat and mane has been messed up, with parts being cut off. Apparently, the colt has an accident while trying to clean himself off with the razor. "Look at the hack job!" Boris laughs; soon the students, minus a shocked Twilight, laughs cruelly at the sad Ben. "Stop it, it's not nice to make fun of students." The teacher insists but couldn't resist giving out a chuckle as well. Ben looks down in sadness as Twilight looks at him in pity while giving an angry look to the laughing Boris. Ben tries to speak, but kept on sobbing. The colt couldn't take it and shed tears as he gallops out of the classroom. "Ben!" Twilight exclaims to Ben then turns to Boris furiously. "Look what you did now!!!" "I know! It's hilarious!" Boris laughed cruelly. Twilight groans as she rush after Ben while yelling, "Ben!" Boxco and Dum-Dum laugh some more, but were cut off when Boris push them, knocking the two to the floor while laughing some more. Twilight gallops out of the classroom, looking around in worry. She calls out, "Ben? Ben! Please come out! Ben?" The filly looks concerned. What if the colt has run away and she will never see him again? Just then Twilight heard some sniffles and trots over to the source. She found it from her secret place and trots in. There's Ben, crying as he tries to cover his bad mane cut. "Ben?" Twilight ask gently to Ben making him turn and see her. "Go away...you will just laugh." Ben said sadly. He fears that the only filly that he himself likes would laugh at him, never to care for him. "Not true, Ben. What Boris did was cruel. I wasn't laughing at your bad mane cut." "I...I tried to look good...for you and everypony else. Oh, why must no one likes me?!" Twilight, nodding in understanding, trots up to Ben, sitting down while saying, "Ben...I like you. I mean, you're practically the only friend I got here." "What?" Ben asks, slowing down his crying as he looks surprised. Did the colt heard right, "But why? Boris wants you and..." "Yeah, but believe me, I like books, I am kinda an egghead. Some ponies find me a bit odd. The only ponies that I am friends with are my brothers and Cadance my foal sitter. Yes, I hang with the students but sometimes I don't. Doesn't mean I'm friends with him. In fact, you're practically the first friend that I made." "You think so?" "I know." Twilight said softly as she nuzzles Ben, cheering him up. "To be honest, you are funny...but not in a cruel way. You look kinda...silly." Ben pauses and looks at himself, chuckling softly, "Yeah...I do look silly to be honest. I should be laughing at myself for this; Ha ha ha ha." "Yeah...oh, BTW..." Twilight said as she took out a familiar Equestrian Angel that the filly took on her way out. "I kept this...and I love it." "You do?" "Yes, and I got something for you." Twilight smiles as she took something out from her own person: a very big heart with special sparkles and ribbons. On it are the words: 'To Ben. Please be my somepony today'. The colt blushes as he looks up to Twilight who smiles. "Thanks." Ben said as he nuzzles Twilight a bit. "Perhaps...I should be less shy and be more active...like you sometimes." "And I will be there, to help you out of your shell." Twilight giggles as she pokes Ben on the nose, "Beep!" Boris and his goons laugh as recess lets out a while later. Dum-Dum comments, "That was a good prank you pulled on the Earth pony, boss." "Yeah, he must be feeling stupid after worth. More stupid than we are." Boxco said in agreement. "Right, I betcha from now on..." Boris stops as he saw something that made him be more red than usual: there's Ben playing with Twilight, despite his bad haircut. "THAT SON OF A..." "Oooh, he's busted." Boxco chuckles a bit as he and Dum-Dum follow Boris who trots over to the playing Ben and Twilight. This oughta be good. "Earth filth!" "Oh hey, Boris the Animal," Ben said, still a bit shy and worried but he felt courage with Twilight with him. "It's just Boris!" Boris exclaims to Ben furiously. "I don't get it, Boris. What's with the whole Boris the-" Dum-Dum begins to say but an angry Boris cuts him off. "Don't you dare...finish that nickname, Dum-Dum!" "I think it's got something to do with some animal like accident that happened with Boris." Boxco suggests to Dum-Dum with a shrug. "Boris, get lost. Nothing you could or do will keep me from hanging with Ben." Twilight said to Ben with a smile. "You don't own me. You may have the students under your hooves...but I know you're a fraud and a creep who needs to be spanked for what you did." "Hey, come on! It was funny!" Boris protests to Twilight furiously. "So are clowns...and you know what? So are you; Hee hee hee!" Twilight and Ben laughs a bit while both rush off from the fuming Boris, both of them exclaims, "Boris the Animal; Boris the Animal; Boris the Animal!" Boris looks up to the sky, screaming at the top of his lungs, "Curses to one certain author for forever associating my name with that villain from Men in Black 3! Now, I'm gonna taunted for the rest of my life." Dum-Dum looks confused as he turns to Boxco, asking, "Uh, who's the boss talkin' to, Boxco?" Boxco shrugged while answering, "No idea, Dum-Dum." A while later, as Ben and Twilight were walking alone by themselves, Dum-Dum is following them, most likely to give out info to Boris. Of course, he didn't get too far when a voice stops him. "Hey!" Flash exclaims, flying above Dum-Dum, getting the stooge's attention. "Huh?" Dum-Dum asks confused while looking around until he looks up and spots Flash. "Dum-Dum." "Yes?" "You have…gum-gum?" Flash ask Dum-Dum, confusing him a bit. "I give you gum-gum?" Dum-Dum ask Flash bewildered and getting freaked out. Why do ponies do that to him? "Your name Dum-Dum…you give me…gum-gum! And I know what you and your…friends have been doing to my pal, Ben." "Uh…Ben? Ben, who?" Flash flies to Dum-Dum, getting into his face while snapping, "Don't play dumb with me, Dum-Dum! My dad happens to be very influential…and I'm giving you a warning." Dum-Dum worried and frightened ask, "What warning?" He doesn't like the sound of that at all! "Tell Boris that if he bothers Ben again…just one…more…time…" "What are you gonna do about it? Huh?" "I wasn't finished." Flash said to Dum-Dum sternly, making him yelp. "Oh…okay." Dum-Dum said nervously, feeling freaked out. "You tell Boris that if he ever…and I mean…ever…picks on Ben again…may Celestia have mercy on his soul. Got it?!" Dum-Dum really frightened nods while saying, "Uh-huh. Got it!" "And tell him that Flash Sentry, that's me…gave you that message." Flash remarks sternly. No one picks or hurts his friends while the future Royal Guard is in town, "Now git!" "Y-Y-Yes, Flash!" Dum-Dum escaped Flash and informs his boss of the message to leave Ben alone to Boris. Of course, the future villain just scoffs, as if this is a dumb joke to him. "Ha! So that's his little message?" Boris asks Dum-Dum in amusement. "It was, Boris." Dum-Dum said with a quick nod. "Well, I don't know who this Flash Sentry thinks he is…telling us what to do…but he's gonna regret it!" Boxco remark stupidly and determined. No one tells these bullies what to do, especially not some Pegasus colt punk! "You took the words right out of my mouth, Boxco. We better find out everything about this…Flash Sentry…and I'll give him…a message of my own; that nopony ever tells me what I can or can't do." Boris remarks darkly. One day he will find out about Flash Sentry...and make him suffer. "You know, Ben, you should've got my help in grooming you. You would've been spared the embarrassment." Celestia said to Ben as she manages to use her magic to restore her son's coat, mane, etc. to normal. "There, if anyone asked, you used a magic potion, okay?" "Wouldn't that be fibbing?" Ben asks his mother puzzled. "Can you think of any other way to explain yourself restored coat and mane?" "Good point, mommy." "So...how did Twilight like it?" Celestia ask her son in approval as she throws the shreds of mane and coat into the trash. The princess is anxious to see if Twilight likes the Equestrian angel given to her. "Twilight likes it. I can imagine her being an Alicorn right now. Wouldn't that be great?" Ben asks his adopted, making Celestia smile while looking thoughtfully. "Yes, it would be. You must really like her." "Yeah, despite Boris trying to keep me away from her; I need to somehow stand up to that creep someday...and conquer my shyness." "I know if you look deep within yourself, Ben, you will find the courage needed." Celestia said while nuzzling her son. Ben smile. Besides Twilight, his mother is the best pony for him to have in his life right now. Ben hopes that someday, he will never separate from her...unless it's to move out and start a life of his own, but the colt will always keep in touch with Celestia, right? Back in the present, Nyx smiles in amazement. Besides some parts of the stories that she had heard before, the filly got some new parts involving her adopted uncle Flash. "So what happened next after daddy's Hearts and Hooves Day?" Nyx ask Ben and Flash, eager for more info. Of course, Ben and Flash looks bewildered. The Pegasus spoke up awkwardly, "Here's the thing. After that and before Summer Sun Celebration, we don't remember much of that." "What?" Some of the ponies ask in surprise and disbelief. "How can that be? Twilight; don't you remember?" Rainbow asks Twilight skeptically. "Well, not much. I woke up in my home one day with a headache, but that's it." Twilight admits to Rainbow in concern. She doesn't remember much of the events that happened between Hearts and Hooves Day and the fateful day at the Summer Sun Celebration. "Yer're hiding?" Applejack asks the stallions puzzled. "Flash's not lying; I can't remember much either of that too before I met Hoboken Joe." Ben admits to everyone in concern. He doesn't recall what happened before that. "Agreed; I wonder what really happen during that time." Twilight said in concern. It's like a chapter has been taken out of her, Ben's and Flash's memories. "I can help you with that." A voice spoke from out of nowhere. The gang turned and encountered a spiky mane and tail of dark crimson Pegasus who wore a brown 19th century coat with a long red scarf and his Cutie Mark is Blazing Fire and a fist symbol, a female cyan Pegasus with a black mane and tail in a ponytail, and her Cutie Mark is a Waterbender Symbol, and a dark green Earth Pony with a black mane and tail in short and gentle, he wore a light green coat, and had his Cutie Mark: boulders and fists. The one who spoke, the crimson Pegasus, smiles as he ask, "Mind if we drop in?" Flash smiled, knowing who this is as he answer, "Be my guess." As the newcomers came into the room, Ben asks Flash curiously, "You know him?" "Sure. He's my Mystic Guardian. Right, Lieutenant Blazefist?" Blazefist chuckled, answering, "Of course. Actually, that's Colonel Blazefist, now, Flashy." "So who are the other two, Blazefist?" Ben ask, glancing at the other two ponies. "I'm his younger brother, Laxtinct. I work for Blaze's boss too." Laxtinct said with a smile. His body shivered. Laxtinct moved to his left as a mole came out of the ground. "Wow! Sneaky, little fella, aren't you?" "Mystic Sense," Rainbow ask Laxtinct, knowing that Mystic Ponies has this ability. "Eeyup; Super Mystic Sense." The female mare grins as she speaks, "My name is Aquastroke. But you can call me Aqua if you want." Laxtinct laughs at this, "Wow! Aqua! You shouldn't let Mortal Ponies to use that nickname since you are an Ultimate Mystic Warrior. That could ruin your reputation. Not to mention, you wouldn't want to embarrass your boyfriend, now do you?" Blazefist groaned, "LAX!" "Both of you are dating? Cool." Ben said in amusement; Looks like another pairing in love right here. "An Ultimate Mystic Warrior at Ponyville; that's awesome." Twilight said impressed. It's good to meet some more Mystic Ponies after a while. "So what's awesome about that?" Rainbow asks Twilight puzzled, pondering what's so awesome about this 'Ultimate Mystic Warrior' thing. "What's an Ultimate Mystic Warrior?" Apple Bloom asks curiously, wanting to know what the Ultimate Mystic Warrior is., "Is it like a very super warrior or something?" Sweetie asks curiously. Scootaloo remarks, "That's very cool." Aquastroke nodded her head, saying, "You bet , Crusaders. Anyone like me possessed more than just one specific but all Elements, powerful skills and we can achieve 2 or 3 Super Mystic Forms. We're tough, strong, determined and smart too. And of course, I got some great experience too. That's the way of the Ultimate Mystic Warriors." The Cutie Mark Crusaders and Rainbow exclaims in awe, "AWESOME!" Someone like Aquastroke must be very awesome! "'Dat's mighty impressive." Applejack remark, impressed with Aquastroke's abilities. "Indeed . I sure you and your friends would be more gentle." Rarity said, recalling some other Mystic Ponies who weren't so...gentle. Aquastroke rolled her eyes while giggling, "Gentle is not my style, Dramaty." Everyone chuckled, making Rarity frowns at what she was called just now. "Very funny." "Wow. I wish I could be like you or Rainbow Dash, brave and strong." Fluttershy said meekly. The mare has trouble being shy or a bit scared from time to time. Aquastroke pats Fluttershy on the back, saying, "You will." "No worries, Fluttershy. Besides, she is based on Avatar Korra from the 'Legend of Korra' Series as a tough, heroic and tomboy girl in the avatar world. No one can match up like her." Pinkie remarks randomly, much to her friends' amusement. Aquastroke giggled, "Great. And here I thought Lax is the only pony who is random." "Tell me about it." Rainbow remarked, rolling her eyes at Pinkie's comment. It's wonder if she knows what she herself is even talking about! "So tell me, Blazefist? What brings you here?" Twilight ask Blazefist, pondering why he and his group has come to Ponyville. Blazefist smiled as he explains, "Telling you a missing piece of the story." "Really; how," Ben asks Blazefist curiously. He wants to know what happened that the stallion, Twilight and Flash seems to not remember at all. "It's gonna be interesting, and quite funny too." "Wow; Are you serious?" Flash ask Ben in surprise. His best friend has made a decision that could change the lives of the two best friends forever...and of course their love interests are involved too! "Yeah; I decide to tell Twilight about me and you." Ben said with a smile. He wants to tell Twilight about Flash...and finally his connection to Twilight at last. Flash smiled, saying, "Be my guest. So where do we meet up?" "Donut Joe's Donut Shop; I sure hope she's not upset about it." "It'll be fine. Trust me." "Yeah.......I guess so." Ben said, wondering if this meeting will turn out fine. Who knows? The fillies will become great friends, especially since Sunset Shimmer is preparing to take her exam soon. Celestia was in the throne room with Ben and Flash waiting near the throne. The mare has told them to wait before she gives the okay to go meet up with Twilight and Sunset. Soon, a Royal Guard told her that she got a visitor who wishes to see her. Celestia looks surprised as a stallion that Ben and Flash has never seen before come in...but one that the princess knew and hasn't seen in a while. The Alicorn spoke up, "Azure; My dear old friend, welcome." Azure chuckles, speaking up to his old friend, "Indeed , I am. I hope you had not forgotten about it." "No, I have not." Celestia assures Azure. She turned to both Ben and Flash, both are rather curious about this newcomer and how Ben's mother knew about him. "Ben, you and Flash should go and meet up with your friends." "But......" Ben said, worried about leaving his mother in the company of this...newcomer. "I'll be fine. Azure Phoenix is a nice pony. He and I are good....... friends." "Okay....." Ben left the throne room with Flash. Azure looks to the two, especially Ben. Once they are out of hearing range, the stallion sighs, shaking his head while asking, "You have not told him the truth?" "No. But please, Azure........ You know I didn't mean to......" Celestia said in concern, worried about Azure and his opinion over...Ben's father at this point. "I know. Love is very mysterious, especially coming between us. Shall we?" "Yes........ visit Iris's grave." The time has come when Ben finally got his chance: to introduce Flash who has arrived with the area with his fillyfriend: Sunset Shimmer. This is Ben's chance to meet the filly that Flash has his eyes on. "Twilight, this is Flash Sentry, my very first best friend." Ben said introducing Flash to Twilight. Twilight smiled as she said, "Nice to meet you. I wonder why Ben didn't say anything about you." "Let's say he's kinda a shy pony." Flash remark, making Ben a bit embarrassed by that comment. "He would be one hard pony to overcome his shyness." "Flash," Ben exclaims to Flash more embarrassed. Sunset giggled, "Do you love to tease your best friend?" "Of course; it's what makes good friends. Oh yeah, this is my fillyfriend: Sunset Shimmer." Flash said, introducing his filly friend to his best friend and Twilight at last. "Nice to meet you, Ben and Twilight Sparkle," Sunset said. The filly felt like it's great to meet new friends. She is unaware of her future relationship which could turn nasty later on in the future. "Flash had some talk about you so much. I can see that he's telling me the truth." Twilight nodded her head, saying, "Indeed . It's nice to meet another Unicorn. So, can you tell me about Flash, Ben?" "Be my guest." Ben said with a smile. Before Twilight could get to asking, Flash notices something nearby, making him ask, "Hey, who's that?" The others turn and saw what their friend just noticed. The four little ponies quickly hides behind the walls of Donut Joe's Restaurant as they spotted three new ponies, two of them that are telling this part of the story in the present: Blazefist, Laxtinct and a dark black short mane and tail of purple Pegasus with a small black mustache and beard who wore navy armor and a French pirate's hat and his Cutie Mark is Twin Axes in X-Shaped and Tiger's face. "Do you understand your mission, Lieutenant Blazefist?" The purple Pegasus ask Blaze fist sternly. Blazefist nods while answering, "Yes, General Bladestrike." This mission must be complete or all is lost. "Good. Find and bring Valmort to us. He has some questions to answer for smuggling ours and Princess's weapons." Bladestrike said sternly. The foals look bewildered; 'Valmort'; 'Bladestrike'; 'Blazefist'? Who are these newcomers? "Find whom he's in contact with." "Yes, sir," Blazefist said while giving a salute. It's important that Valmont be captured and interrogated. "Careful, brother," Laxtinct said to his brother in concern. "Got it," Blazefist promises his brother. "Remember. You must not show the enemies or innocents of your true power." Bladestrike said. The last time that the innocents saw the true power of their kind, it ended up being bad. "Yes sir. I won't let you down." Blazefist said with a nod. He won't make the same mistake, not the same one that a former ally turned enemy has done., Bladestrike and Laxtinct turned and left Blazefist who took the hat of the 19th century and galloped out while hiding in the shadows. "What was that about?" Sunset ask the others in surprise. "I don't know." Flash said, feeling the same way. It looks like a mission is happening but who would be fighting missions nowadays? Equestria isn't at war or conflict with any of the existing kingdoms...is it? "Who's Valmort? And why does he want Princess Celestia's weapons for? Deliver to who?" Twilight ask the other foals in concern. Something's going down and she got to find out what it is and maybe warn the princess. "Only one way to find out," Ben said in determination. If his mother and Equestria is in danger, he got to find out how it's happening. Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset hide behind the walls, trash cans and more shadows as they followed and spied on Blazefist. Flash glances at the fillies, asking Ben in concern, "Ben, don't you think its bad idea of bringing girls into this?" "Sorry. But I've gotta know what's going on and why." Ben said to Flash with a nod. Plus, he doesn't have time to take Twilight and Sunset home. This must be done now! Flash nodded, speaking to Ben, "I sure hope you know what you're doing." "Me too," Ben mumbles a bit. He doesn't want this idea to be a mistake that could get him killed big time. Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset arrived at a broken and abandoned warehouse where they saw and found two strange black armored and masked ponies that held machinery guns. Four little ponies hide behind the large rectangle trash bin. What are those guys doing here? The princess never has these kinds of guards! "Who the heck is that?!" Flash ask Ben in worry, concerned about the nasty looking masked ponies. "I don't know. It's definitely not Royal Guards." Ben said. He knows what the Royal Guards look like and these ponies don't look like them! "Wait. Where's that Pegasus." Twilight said, noting that Blazefist has disappeared. Did he went inside? "You don't think he flew off?" Sunset ask the others quietly, wondering if Blazefist has spotted them and is calling whoever recruited him. "What do we have here?" A familiar voice asks. They yelped in fear as Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset turned and encountered Blazefist. And trust me; he doesn't seem thrilled to see them. "That wasn't nice of you to follow a stranger." "Oh, flanks!" Sunset exclaimed in slight panic. "Okay, you caught me." Ben said with a groan. But the colt isn't about to get out of this without answers. "Who are you? What do you know about Valmort and smuggling Princess Celestia's weaponries? Answer me!" "Ben, easy," Flash exclaims, trying to calm his friend down. He knows how Ben is protective of his mother and wants to help her. "Ben, are you alright?" Twilight ask Ben. Why is he getting so rile up? "Why is he so protective of Princess Celestia? No offense, Ben." Sunset said, apologizing on the second part. "None taken," Ben forgave Sunset. He turns back to Blazefist. "Please, what is going on?" Blazefist pauses, recognizing the colt as Celestia's son. He knows that Ben wants to help keep his country and his mother safe. Perhaps the foals shall know...before they have their memories erased. It isn't personal, just to keep his true identity and the others' a secret. Blazefist sighed, "Fine. You heard the news that weapons from Canterlot and Land of Ma have gone missing for both training and battles?" The four foals nod at this. "That's the thing. My nation suspects that there's a mole for smuggling those to somewhere. We tracked the link of the missing weapons from my home to here. That warehouse is my target. I'm gonna find it out." Ben sighed, "But do you know who did it?" "That's why I need Valmort alive. He knows someone that he's smuggling to. I'm gonna interrogate him." Blazefist explains to Ben's group clearly. If the Mystic Pony were to get this guy, then the answers will be found. "Please, take me with you." Ben pleads to Blazefist. He wants to prove himself brave and a warrior to Flash and Twilight. Blazefist, however, shakes his head, saying, "No, you're not coming. It's too dangerous. Stay here, you'll be safe. I'll get that answer for you." "But-" Ben begins to say but Blazefist cut him off, saying something surprising. "I promise you, Ben. I'll get the answer for you. But for now, stay here." Blazefist insists to Ben, much to his and the others' surprise. "What; how did-!" Ben begins to ask in amazement. How did this stallion know his name? The two never met before! "Your mother and Azure Phoenix were friends. I promise you." Blazefist assures Ben, making him more bewildered. "I'll get the answer for you. I promise. Got it? Good. My name is Lieutenant Blazefist. Flash, I need you to look after both your friends and filly friends. Stick to the shadows, no matter what happen, got it?" "Okay........" Flash said with a sigh. Perhaps this mission is too much for the four foals. Better let Blazefist handle this. "Good. Wish me luck." Blazefist said with a nod, getting ready for his big mission., Blazefist hovered over the dustbin as he hid behind two carriages. For the moment, Blazefist took a glance at his enemies, seeing two black armored ponies turning to both right and left. Blazefist quickly rolled over to the entrance door. He took two knives out and pierced through the two bad ponies' necks. Blazefist slowly put both ponies down before he turned and opened the door slowly. He entered and closed the door. Flash whistled, "Wow, he's good." Whoever this Blazefist is, he must be doing this thing for years. "Ben, what's going on? And how does he know you?" Twilight ask, wondering about how Blazefist knows about him. "Flash, you've got some explaining to do." Sunset said, giving a suspicious look to her colt-friend. Ben sighed, "It's going be hard to believe, Twilight." "Wow, a bit intense," Applejack remarked in amazement. "So did you two talked about Ben's connection?" Spike asks Twilight curiously. "To be honest, I don't remember what we talked about, even if we did..." Twilight said, looking confused still, "I still don't understand." "Right; the conversion must be a good one and Ben probably told about his connection that ended up being forgotten after that event, because the best is yet to come." Blazefist chuckles, continuing with the story at hoof here. For a while later, Blazefist hasn't come out from warehouse. The four foals looks concerned. What is taking him so long? "You know, I'm a little concerned about that stallion." Sunset said in concern. "Right, you think something happened to him?" Twilight ask Sunset worried. "That can be my guess." "We're going in." Ben said in determination. Something has happened and he must go in...as well as figure out how Blazefist even knew about him. "Are you sure? But Ben -" Twilight begins to ask but Ben interrupts her. He got to know how Blazefist knew him and anything else that's going on here. "I've gotta know it." "Alright; But this is real battle not some training. It won't be good news." Flash said to Ben seriously. This battle won't be like the training that the two friends has gone through. This is the real thing. The kids could get killed in this recklessness! "I know. Let's go." Ben said in determination yet stubborn kinda way. Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset quickly entered the warehouse. They gasped in shock as the four saw many weapons in boxes in the place. They heard some talking as well as spotting some ponies in front of them. The foals quickly headed to the front and hide behind a crate. Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset saw and encountered some black armored ponies, MechaStahl, a Gray Unicorn with a white, gentle and short mane and tail, wore a coat and his Cutie Mark is a Helghast Symbol and Machinery Gun, Houndkiller, a black armored Pegasus who wore a Demonic mask with a military cap and his Cutie Mark is a Gun, a Mask and a Sword, and Metric, a white spiky mane stallion of dark brown with a short tail, and his Cutie Mark is a Human Skull with a long gun-like. They were talking near two portals with Valmort, a white Unicorn with a blond mane and tail in a ponytail, he wears a greenish suit and his Cutie Mark is money. Two figures are seen through the portals, one of them is wearing a cloak to cover his true identify. "I guess, these are the ponies that Blazefist was talking about. Stealing my mother's weapons to these whoever they are." Ben said with a frown. He must help his mother no matter what. "I'm gonna make them sorry." Flash stops Ben from going anywhere, looking serious as he exclaims, "Easy! Let's listen and find out what's going on." Twilight nods in agreement, adding, "Flash's right, Ben. We need to know what's going on." "Let's listen first." Sunset suggests quietly. Valmort, unaware of the foals' presence, speaks to the Dark Mystic Ponies, "Mr. MechaStahl and Officer Houndkiller and Metric, what a pleasant surprise of you to drop by. How can I be some service?" Metric in a German accent snaps, "Spare me your formalities, Mr. Valmort. You know why we are here." "Indeed ." Houndkiller said cruelly. "You had delayed in delivering the weapons again." Valmort groaned, "Easy to say than done, because you're freaking dealing with two nations who are almost onto me. You know the risk!" Houndkiller groaned in anger, "Will you become like that pirate scum who failed to deliver the Dragons to us in time?!" Ben looks puzzled, wondering who that pony is talking about. "I am better than that low-life scoundrel! He only thinks of himself and drinks. But for me, I will do anything to get the money. But it needs some time without drawing some attention from the enemies. I hate to see that happening. I had to be careful of that. You had no idea how dangerous it can be when you smuggling weapons out." Metric scoffs at this excuse, saying, "More like excuses and cowardice when you had proposal to fulfill with." Valmort groaned, "I'll have you know that -!" MechaStahl snaps, cutting Valmort off, "Enough! When you make a deal with the three powerful Lords of Equestria, we'd expect good results. So, tell me, Mr. Valmort. Did you get what we need? Lord Dark Curse and Lord Smaug expect no failures." Valmort sighed, "Yes, I did." He got what Dark Curse and Smaug needed. No need to make those two furious. The one known as Dark Curse spoke in the first portal, "I trust you're prepared for shipping them to us now?" The Superior nods in the second portal, asking, "Just to be certain, were you followed? Have you make sure that no tracks can be followed or found?" "I assure you, my clients, that everything is fine. No one and not even that stupid princess suspect about this." Valmort assures his clients. Ben was close to losing it and attacking that jerk for insulting his mother Celestia that way. "You'd better be. I need more weapons to invent as well as some specials from the Land of Ma. They're quite useful to both me and Lord Superior." Dark Curse explains sternly to Valmont. "Deep in the future, our enemies will fall by the hooves of the Three Lords of Equestria." "Yes. These weapons will be perfect used in the future. I expect no failure, Mr. Valmort." The Superior explains sternly to Valmort. "Rest assured; everything is fine. But you do remember the money you promise me, especially you, Smaug." Valmort spoke the Superior's real name. Both the Superior and Dark Curse growled in anger as their bodies unleashed the pure fire, causing Valmort to yelp in fright. "Then again, it can wait until we're done with the mission." "That's more like it." Dark Curse said, calm down somewhat. Valmort knows better than to demand money up front until the job's done. "Before we proceed, deal with the intruders first! Behind the crates," The Superior explains evilly before the two portals disappeared suddenly. The three Dark Mystic Ponies and Valmort turned to the box where Ben, Twilight, Flash and Sunset were hiding behind. Houndkiller and Metric removed the box out from its place, and Dark Mystic Ponies aimed their weapons at the four ponies. The four yelps, somehow the Superior and Dark Curse knew that they were here! "Well, well, well. What do we have here? Three little ponies and a prince at my backyard," MechaStahl comments, chuckling sinisterly, "How lucky is that. Welcome, Prince Benjamin." "Who are you?!" Ben demands to the villain. How did he even know about his title or the connection to Celestia? MechaStahl chuckled, "Where are my manners? I am MechaStahl. These two officers are mine: Houndkiller and Metric. And my little employee here is Valmort. It was very surprise of you to spy on me." "What is going on; Why do you want with my mother's and Azure Phoenix's weapons?!" "Why? Your family's and her friend's weapons are very useful to us to create the powerful and perfect weapon. A weapon that can change the world into a better place, where there will be no chaos. No wars. No disease. And best of all: no freedom." "Then, that means....... slaves?!" Twilight gasps in horror. She doesn't want a world like that! It wouldn't be right! "You can't do that! Everypony deserve freedom. They make their choice! They want to live and had a second chance to make right and live in happiness because of that freedom!" Sunset groaned in anger, "You can't do this to us! You can't do this to anyone! It's not right!" MechaStahl remarks to Sunset, not caring about the two fillies' protest, "That's the point, little filly! That is the cause of everything since the beginning! Your mother, Ben, cannot be the ruler. She is weak. Our masters are!" "You're wrong! You don't even know the half of it! My mother is great, strong and kind!" Ben snaps to MechaStahl sternly. "You'd better watch your mouth! Or else, I'm gonna kick your flank," Flash exclaims to the villain sternly. He is willing to fight MechaStahl and his men to the death if he has to! For the moment, it was silent. MechaStahl chuckled, followed by Valmort and Dark Mystic Ponies, in both evilly. MechaStahl ask as if being told a very amusing joke, "Kick my flank? That is very stupid." Valmort agrees, asking Ben, "A colt like you; Hardly; Especially your weak mother." Ben groaned, "Why you!" The colt prepares to pounce at Valmort. Well, he would have if his friends didn't hold him back. "Hold up, Ben! We've gotta get out of here first." Flash said to Ben in concern. The four foals are no match for these goons; they got to get away before this gets ugly. "But -!" "I know you want to help your mother. But there's no way we can beat them. This is real, not a joke. Besides, we got the evidence that we need. There is no way that these guys can get out." "He's right, Ben. We'd better get out of here, now." Twilight pleads to her love worried. It's best to get out before the foals ends up biting more than they could chew here. "Let's go now." Sunset said nervously. Luckily, these villains are too busy laughing to pay any attention to the foals right now. The four little ponies quickly sneak away slowly and quietly as they headed to the door. Dark Mystic Ponies continued laughing evilly. Houndkiller stopped his laughing as he realized something. "Chairman MechaStahl. Did we allow those ponies to go?" Houndkiller ask MechStahl in concern. If those foals alert everyone else, their plans will be in ruins! "Of course not; The Mystic Ponies will definitely know what we've been doing for years. We can't afford to let those brats to go and inform Princess Celestia. Why?" MechaStahl ask Houndkiller, pondering what made his colleague ask that. "Coz there they go!" Ben, Twilight, Flash and Sunset quickly headed out and start running away from Dark Mystic Ponies. MechaStahl groaned in irritation, "Don't you stand there! After them! Bring them here dead or alive! You, Valmort, go fetch them!" "But I-" Valmort begins to protest but MechaStahl interrupts him, obviously not having it. "Do it! Or the payment will be canceled!" The villain snaps angrily. Houndkiller, Metric, Valmort and their Dark Mystic Ponies and thugs charged out and went after Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset. MechaStahl groaned in anger, "Do I had to do everything by myself; Unacceptable; Useless mortals. They are hardly powerful as the Superior." Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset continued running away as fast as they can from Houndkiller, Metric, Valmort and their thugs and Dark Mystic Soldiers as they chased and fired their weaponries at the enemies in the dark, cold and abandoned parts of the Canterlot. The young colts and fillies dodged down while running as fast as they can. Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset spotted some crates near the fence. Ben jumped up first, followed by Flash, and then the girls. Ben and Flash were at the tops while Twilight and Sunset were still climbing up. Suddenly, their back legs got caught. "Ben!" Twilight calls out to Ben frantically. "Flash," Sunset exclaims to Flash in a bit of fright. Ben and Flash turned and gasped in fear as they saw that both Twilight and Sunset were grabbed by Houndkiller who chuckled evilly as he pulled them near him. Ben and Flash groaned in anger as they turned back and charged at Houndkiller. Ben and Flash exclaims in determination at the same time, "Let them go!" Close to Houndkiller, Ben's and Flash's right hoof each glowed in gold and green. The two colts punched at Houndkiller when he looked up. Their punches hit Houndkiller's mask hard, causing it to break as well as him letting Twilight and Sunset go. Ben and Flash brought their filly friends up and continued climbing over the crates and jumping over the fence. Houndkiller shook his head as he growled in anger while glaring at Ben and Flash. No one dares does that to him and gets away with it! Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset continued running as fast as they can through the abandoned city. They arrived at the coliseum and entered it. They quickly stopped upon arriving at the dead end of the place. The four colts and fillies turned and saw Houndkiller, Metric, Valmort and their Dark Mystic Soldiers and thugs surrounding and aimed their weapons at the enemies. They're trapped. Houndkiller armed his gun as he approached Ben, saying darkly, "I've been waiting for this for a long time. I will kill him and bring his head to that scoundrel." Ben gulped in fear. He then turned at his friends. Ben looked at Twilight and Sunset's worried and feared faces. Flash glared at his enemies. Ben shook his head as he looked courageous and determined eyes. The colt glared at his enemies, demanding, "Leave Twilight and Sunset alone!" "Or else we fight!" Flash exclaims, getting into position for a fight. Houndkiller scoffed, "Don't make me laugh, brats. I won't show you mercy. You hardly had any fighting skills." "Maybe not them," A familiar voice spoke from out of nowhere. Houndkiller, Metric, Valmort, the thugs and Dark Mystic Soldiers turned and saw Blazefist behind them. "It's me that you need to deal with." "Ah...... Lieutenant Blazefist." "Lieutenant Houndkiller." "It's Colonel now. I didn't expect you to be the one who put the lives of innocent foals here to get the weapons out. You're usually a stealthy assassin, but I'd never thought that you would use these brats as bait." Houndkiller remark, taunting his enemy as if what he said is true. Blazefist took his hat out and threw it away, saying, "I didn't." He took his two swords out as the Mystic Pony prepared for battle. "But I didn't get the weapons or put the ponies' lives in danger. I'm here to rescue them." Metric chuckled evilly, "Then, you fail the mission." "Nope. I didn't fail saving lives." "Kill him!" Houndkiller orders the Dark Mystic Ponies and thugs. Blazefist's death will be nice and sweet. Both ten Dark Mystic Ponies and Thugs charged right at Blazefist. The first two Dark Mystic Ponies charged in with their swords swung over Blazefist's head, but the young Mystic Pony dodged down. He then gave punches on the two before the good guy kicked them right at the two thugs. Blazefist dodged by hovering over four Dark Mystic Ponies who are charging at him. Blazefist landed on the middle between them. Four of the minions attacked the Mystic Pony by punching at the same time. Blazefist dodged down, allowing four Dark Mystic Ponies to punch on each other's faces. He rolled to the front, grabbed the first soldier and hit the second one for a few times. The third and fourth Dark Mystic Soldiers tried to punch on Blazefist whom dodged the attack for five times. He then landed down and swung his leg against two Dark Mystic Soldiers. Three thugs charged in and attacked Blazefist who dodged while punching and kicking on their faces, legs and bodies hard. Four Dark Mystic Soldiers and three Thugs used their guns, spears and swords to against Blazefist who dodged and avoided the attack by going down, followed by rolling over and jumped over for four times. Four Dark Mystic Soldiers swung their swords and pierced their spears at Blazefist in a mad attempt to end his life. The Mystic Pony quickly grabbed two hooves from two Dark Mystic Soldiers, pulled them back and gave them hard punches. Blazefist then kicked three thugs and slammed two Dark Mystic Ponies down onto the ground hard. Upon seeing how strong Blazefist is, Valmort screamed like a girl and ran off, followed by his thugs. Blazefist turned and faced against both Houndkiller and Metric, the latter stood while saying, "It would be an honor to face him." "Indeed . We will finish him off for good." Houndkiller said in determination. Metric took out his swords while Blazefist took his out as well. Both sides armed themselves in battle. For the moment, both sides charged in and swung and clashed their swords against each other. Metric swung his sword on top, but Blazefist dodged down. Houndkiller gave an attack on his right but. Blazefist blocked his enemy's right attack with his left sword. Metric slammed his sword on top of Blazefist's top hard. Both he and his enemies had their swords clashed for the moment before they depart before the trio swung their swords while dodging the attacks for a few times. Houndkiller quickly grabbed Blazefist's left hoof and gave him a hard punches for few times, and then Metric grabbed Blazefist's head tight before he gave few punches on his head. Metric and Houndkiller gave the hard punches onto Blazefist's head hard, causing him to go back. Blazefist remained standing. Both Houndkiller and Metric took their guns out and fired at him as Blazefist swung his sword in blocking against the bullets for a few times. Two bullets hit on his left shoulder and then his left front leg. Blazefist screamed in pain as he covered his injuries tight with his right hoof. Houndkiller approached and gave Blazefist a pierce sword against his flesh. The Mystic Pony groaned in pain. Metric charged in and gave a hard punch on Blazefist's face hard, causing him to fall down on his back. Houndkiller and Metric approached Blazefist as they held their guns at Blazefist. Houndkiller said evilly, "It is over." Victory is his. Metric smirked while remarking, "Indeed . You had failed again, just like how you fail to your very best friend." Blazefist opened his eyes. He turned his shocking eyes into anger and determination. Blazefist screamed in anger as he quickly launched his two hooves at Houndkiller and Metric with Firestorm Fists. Both Dark Mystic Generals screamed in pain. Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset gasped in shock upon seeing this happen. Blazefist held his Burning Rage Fists tight as he charged in and punched many times against Metric and Houndkiller. Blazefist calls out madly, "Phoenix Flamethrower!" Blazefist had his fists burned and glowed in fire, bigger and brighter. The hero then launched his attack in front of him, creating a large Phoenix form with fire and right at Houndkiller and Metric, causing them to fall down hard, and had their masks broken off. They revealed their angered faces as the two got up and glared at their enemies. Metric hiss furiously at his enemy, "We shall return, Mystic Pony." "Indeed , he must pay for what he has done." Houndkiller remarks sinisterly. Ben looks confused and shocked. 'Mystic Pony'; those species...are real? Both Metric and Houndkiller disappeared in black smokes. Blazefist sighed as he turned and saw the shocking faces of four little ponies, "So much for hiding from Equestria." He approached them while Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset did not move. "Listen. I'm not a monster. If you think I am," The Mystic Pony sighed, preparing for the worst. "I understand. I'll leave you alone." Ben grabbed Blazefist's hoof tight while sobbing and smiling, "Thanks, Mr. Blazefist. I don't know if I can protect Twilight and my friends. But thank you." Flash smiled, saying to Blazefist, "You said it. Thanks." "Besides, you saved us. Are you really the Mystic Pony? Oh my Celestia, I actually met one!" Twilight exclaims, clopping her hooves together as if being an adventure discovering a huge secret for the first time ever! "You're a hero, not a monster. Like Twilight said, no Pegasi could use that kind of powers but you." Sunset said with a smile. Blazefist gasped in shock before he smiled. The pony is glad for hearing that. He spoke, "Thanks. Besides, you should thank both Ben and Flash for standing up and protecting you girls." Twilight and Sunset smiled at both Ben and Flash, saying to the two, "Thank you." "But.....but.....I didn't -" Ben spoke out in protest. He didn't do much saving...did he? Blazefist patted on Ben's head, explaining to Ben gently, "Listen, Ben. Being brave isn't about going into danger and doing stupid or heroic stuffs, it's about helping and protecting your friends. That's make you have both brave and courage, kid." Ben was in shock before he smiled, saying, "Thanks." "Come on, let's get going." Blazefist has brought his report to Bladestrike and Laxtinct, confirming Valmort's involvement with the Dark Mystic Ponies as well as the villains' defeat. No word about the weapons but at least the guards will work hard to intercept them. However, one thing must be done, something that Blazefist isn't pleased to hear about. "But sir -" Blazefist begins to protest, knowing that what must be done isn't right at all. "No buts, Lieutenant. You know the rules." Bladestrike said sternly to Blazefist. The Mystic Pony hates to do this but it must be done. "Yes sir. Can I at least -?" "Of course; 5 minutes." Blazefist trots over to the ponies. They have overheard as to what must be done: erasing the foals' memories to keep the Mystic Ponies' existence a secret. He spoke, "You guys did well." "Do we have to?" Ben asks Blazefist in concern. "Sorry. But promise me something: keep your best friends together, no matter what happen." Flash smiled, saluting Blazefist while saying, "Sure no problem." Twilight smiled while speaking, "I promise." "Me too," Sunset promises as well. The poor filly doesn't know it yet but in the future, she will end up breaking her promise...and doesn't even to do so! "But I -" Ben begins to say. He doesn't want to forget Blazefist or his friendship It isn't fair. Blazefist interrupts Ben, chuckling, "Don't worry, kid. We'll meet again. Someday; I promise. Just stick with Flash and listen to him, you're lucky to have him." "Yeah. I guess. I hope I won't forget you." Blazefist smiled while commenting, "You can try." He turned to Bladestrike and Laxtinct. "They're ready." "I'm sorry. This has to be this way. You know that." Bladestrike said, feeling regret for the memory erasing progress himself. But rules are rules, one can guess. "Yes." "Then, we begin." Bladestrike said. This got to be done before any interruptions are made. He turned to Laxtinct. "Corporal, do it at once." Laxtinct took out a small tube-like device right in front of four foals. The three Mystic Ponies put shades on their own eyes. As Laxtinct turned some of the buttons, Bladestrike instructs him, "Now, remember, you had to turned the days, months and years carefully, and then make sure that you get the right time." Blazefist adds, "Don't forget. Just the event of how four foals encountered the Dark Mystic Ponies. That's all." "No. That includes the part where they found out about you and your mission." "Don't worry. I'll tell them the just investigation parts." "No. We had to make sure that no one must remember our mission especially Mortals." Bladestrike said to Blazefist sternly. "Forget it! This is not what they want. Besides, you know how lonely Ben gets. I don't want that happening to him like how I lost mine." Blazefist said, fearing that Ben would face what happened to him not too long ago. "You must not let your emotions conflicted with your duty. You know this is the way, lieutenant!" "Then, I rather them not forget about their friendship!" "Can you make up your minds?!" Laxtinct snaps in frustration. But that's when the big accident occurs. Laxtinct accidentally pushed the big round button on top. The top of test tube-like glowed in bright light and causing blinds on Ben, Flash, Twilight and Sunset. All four of them had swirling eyes. Bladestrike and Blazefist yell to Laxtinct in annoyance, "Laxtinct!" "Hey! It wasn't my fault if you guys hadn't shouted at my ears!" Laxtinct protest to the two innocently. Blazefist approached both Ben and Flash, asking the two colts in worry, "Ben? Flash; Are you alright?" Ben shook his head as he yawned, "Who....... are you? Flash, what are we supposed to be doing?" The colt has forgotten what happened...as well as the fact that Ben and Flash have introduce their fillies to each other and the colts...as well as the personal secrets. Flash shook his head while yawning, "I don't know........ But I'm tired........" Blazefist gasped in shock. He sighed and smiled, "Never mind, kiddos. The name's Blazefist. I work for Azure Phoenix. I'm taking you home." Ben and Flash yawned, "Yeah, we could." They need some sleep. Blazefist took and put them up on his back. He turned to Bladestrike and Laxtinct. Bladestrike smiled, saying, "Very well. Take those two home. Laxtinct and I will take both Twilight and Sunset home." Twilight yawned, saying, "I'm so...... tired......." She doesn't remember what happened. What is going on? Sunset yawned, saying, "Me too....... Gotta meet....... my coltfriend........" Bladestrike chuckles to Sunset, unaware of the future that awaits her, "Don't worry, child. I'll take you home." Laxtinct sighed, "So much for my good job." He messed up...a lot. Blazefist took both Ben and Flash home while Bladestrike and Laxtinct took Twilight and Sunset home. On the way home, Blazefist took a glance at Ben and Flash who snored and slept together. They look peaceful together. Blazefist sighed and smiled, saying, "It sure does bring memories back." He then looked at the beauty of the night. "I'd sure hope you won't forget that, old friend........" Author's Note That's a lost chapter of Flash's tale with Ben. But what will happen now? More to come so read, review and suggest. Flash confronting Dum-Dum is of course a reference to the Night at the Museum film series. Blazefist is based on Yue Jin (Dynasty Warriors) and Mako (Legend of Korra). Laxtinct is based on Li Dian (Dynasty Warriors) and Bolin (Legend of Korra). Aquastroke is based on Korra (The Legend of Korra). Bladestrike is based on Zhang Liao (Dynasty Warriors). MechaStahl is based on Jorhan Stahl (Killzone) and Tacticmon (Digimon). Houndkiller is based on Colonel Radec and Saric (Killzone) Metric is based on General Metrac (Killzone). Valmort is based on Valmont of the 'Jackie Chan Adventures' series. The chase has references to the hyenas chasing Simba and Nala when they were cubs in 'The Lion King'. The small test tube-like that Laxtinct is similar to Neutroanalyzer from the Men in Black Franchise.
Chapter 5: Friends ForeverView OnlineThe Tale of SentryChapter 5: Friends ForeverChapter 5: Friends Forever Pinkamena is reading and says, "Man, Flash's story is intense but it's just a story of his past after all." The others nod. Blazefist finishes telling the hidden part of the story. The ponies not knowing went silent, all are amazed. So that's what happened. Rainbow pauses then spoke up, "Wow......... That's......AWESOME!" "You said it, Rainbow Dash! That's the coolest thing I ever heard of." Scootaloo said in agreement. "Yup; Ben actually wants to get out from his shell to tell Twilight about his friend and being son of Princess Celestia." Sweetie giggles a bit, making Ben blush a bit at this. Rarity smiled, saying with a happy sigh, "Such heroic and romantic, Ben, when you were young." "Eeyup; If 'dat happen, Boris is gonna regret o' 'dat." Apple Bloom remarks in agreement. "Yew said it. But if somepony hadn't tried 'ta erase o' what Ben's trying 'ta do," Applejack said, glaring at Laxtinct; If Ben's memories were kept, at least most of the pain that Twilight went through wouldn't have happen at all. "Hey! This pony got a lot of pressure!" Laxtinct protests to Applejack, defending what he did so to speak. "Not to mention, Bladestrike is a very fierce general. And I really hate getting on his bad side. The last time I tried to do something important, he lost his Mystic Phoenix Temper right at me!" Twilight giggled, "Applejack, it’s okay. Even so, it never changed my love for Ben." The Alicorn assures Applejack that even Ben's, Flash's, Twilight's and Sunset's memory of that time was gone, at least Twilight's love for Ben remains. Ben smiled, nuzzling Twilight while saying, "Thanks." "Wow. Daddy actually stood up against two Dark Mystic Ponies? That's great." Nyx said with glee. She wishes that she herself was there to see that happened. "You said it. That could have shown Boris of who's the real boss if someone hadn't done a stupid thing in the first place." Spike remarks, making Laxtinct annoyed. Why must certain ponies get on his case about that?! Laxtinct groaned, "Hey! Get off my flank!" "Even so.......Ben's still the best warrior." Flash said, impressed by Ben's performance even if the two friends don't even remember it happened. "You know what surprise me? Sunset Shimmer is actually a nice pony. She actually had met Ben and Twilight from the beginning. She sounded like a real kind and caring pony." Fluttershy said with a smile. Sunset sounds like she would've been a nice friend...if it wasn't for the memory loss and/or the Superior's manipulation. Flash sighed, "She was......." The Pegasus misses Sunset so much. He wonders if she would be all right in the alternative human world. "Until today, she's one big meanie to everyone, especially her own special somepony." Pinkie said with a shrug. "Pinkie Pie," Ben scolds Pinkie for saying that about Sunset. "What, it's true! If Laxtinct hadn't erased her memory, she and Twilight would have become BFF. And maybe throughout the four seasons, she would have become a member of the Mane Seven while making Flash as a member of Stallion Seven, along with Ben, Caramel, Lord Eric, Dexter and my future boyfriend, Brian. That would have makes us the best team ever in the future." The ponies look confused. What did Caramel has to do with this? And who's Lord Eric, Dexter and Brian? Pinkie is more random than ever! Laxtinct groaned, "And again, stop accusing me! I told you I've been pressured A LOT! I don't know why many ponies keep on pressuring me!" He turned to the screen, "Especially you! I know you're watching Mr. Powermaster! I want some answer! Is it because of my character based on Bolin who is lousy, worthless and problematic since Book 2: Change! Seriously! I don't even like that attitude of his! I'd rather stick with the old Bolin from Book 1: Air and especially Mako and Korra's relationship would have become better than worst in Book 2!" Everyone looked awkward at the two random ponies. Aquastroke and Rainbow spoke at the same time: You are so random. "Still the Equestria Ponies got a point. Let's say, Ben, Flash, Sunset and Twilight never had their memories erased. They would have great excitement and adventure together, right here and now. Sunset would have learned the best in making with friends, like Twilight did. And not to mention, the Superior would be big surprised to know that could have been Seven Elements." Blazefist add, making the Equestrian ponies startled. "There's a seventh?! And I don't mean Ben's Triforce!" Pinkie demands to Blazefist in bewilderment. Blazefist groaned, "No! I'm just giving thoughts of it." Twilight thought for the moment then she spoke, "Blazefist's right. If that really happen, Sunset would never have been upset and despair for her whole life in the first place; Right, everyone?" "Right," Everyone said in agreement. "So what happened next?" Phobos asks curiously. "Let me guess, your meeting with Hoboken Joe?" "Bingo . Then I met my third friend." Ben said with a smile as the story continues. The scene opens up in the hallway sometime later, where Ben Mare was walking alone carrying his bag. He was off to another of his classes, when...somepony stuck a hoof out and made him trip and fall on his front. "Hay Benny; how was your trip?" Boris cruelly remark to the guy. "Yeah, did you have a nice fall?" Boxco remarked off to say. "Yeah, it was funny than a surprise can of bumps!" Dum Dum pointed out to say this. "That's can of worms, you dolt!" Boris snapped to scold the idiot for not saying that sentence right. "Boris, why do you guys always do this same routine?" Ben asked off annoyed to be going through this. "Well, you can't say that was intentional, you just happened to pass over without knowing I stick my hoof out?" Boris shrugs off to give his excuse here. "But I digress; you're about the second Earth filth I like to toy around at times." He made a sly smirk in stating this matter on messing with Ben here. "Second?" Ben responded confused, who was Boris's first victim of being picked on? "Right, the other pony is Hoboken Joe." Boxco stated in recalling who the other pony they make fun of is. "That janitor guy right over there," Dum Dum stated to point off where the other pony is. True to words, there was an Earth stallion in his 20s to 30s with brown coat, gray short mane & long tail, plus a little side burns of his in-grown beard, & blue eyes. He seemed to be wearing cloths most matching that of a hobo; even his Cutie Mark was a cross between an apple & some cleaning & workmen equipment. The guy was just working on the floor by mopping. He was clearly a janitor for the school that the fillies & colts are attending to. "While he maybe an adult, we still get a few good laughs from the fool!" Boris makes a wise crack in how they like to tease this janitor. "Hay, you shouldn't be mean to him, it's bad enough how much I feel hurt when you keep picking on me!" Ben protest in seeing Boris was being mean to someone else right before his eyes. "Wow, you sure grew a conscience." Boxco responded stump to hear that from Ben. "Yeah, he actually cares for a janitor." Dum Dum responded in finding this hard to believe. "Maybe you both belong together; you both are dirt and try to clean it for us upper class ponies." Boris remarked off in saying Ben is like the janitor, they are both in the job of dirt & make things clean for the higher class of ponies. As these bullies were laughing & Ben was feeling a little upset by this act...it was soon cut off. "'Scuse me fellas," A voice interrupts the colts in being the janitor, Hoboken Joe with an accent of a Red-Neck in getting their attention. "But did any of you's leave this somewhere?" He showed to the colts’ eyes, a pretty blue gem stone, sparkling so...beautifully. "I found this here priceless gem stone in the middle of my mopping floors, & saw you all to think…does it belong to yah?" He was asking if anypony was the owner of this priceless gem. "Actually, it's not..." Ben was cut from saying that it wasn't theirs by the bullies. "Mine!" Dum Dum shouted to stand as the owner. "No, mine," Boxco pushed his pal over to make claim of the gem. "Dolts, you clearly forgotten, I lost that, so it's mine!" Boris snapped to lie to his goons that wherever this gem came from, he'll take claims of it. "Thanks for returning this to me; I'll take it from here." He snatched the gem from Hoboken without any resistance. And without a word, Boris left with his 'so-called' gem while his goons followed leaving only Ben with the janitor as if they were ghost that were not even cared about by the snobby unicorn colt. "Sir, they were lying, it wasn't theirs to begin with." Ben tried to let this stallion know that he was tricked by Boris' lie. "Oh I know that, but they don't." Hoboken Joe made a sly smile in stating that he knew about the lie, but kept it from Boris's group. "Hugh?" Ben responded puzzled, what did this guy mean? "You see, that was a Fool's Gem, they may look & seem like they are real. But watch." Hoboken explained while having another gem just like what Boris took, but... "Crack,” He broke it in two, and the instead showed the minerals of a rock. "They're false from the inside even Dragons throw those things up like bad tastes in their mouths." He explained the matter that even Dragons don't like the taste of Fool's Gem, they don't taste right ‘cause they aren't the quality real stuff. "Wow!" Ben responded amazed to learn of such a thing. "So you must be the Earth pony, Ben, the colt with a last name of Mare and shaved him something silly on appearance. Hehe," Hoboken Joe turned his attention to Ben, knowing a little about this colt from being an Earth pony & then some. Ben seem hesitated to respond from both his last name was funny plus about the recent razor situation he had that made him a laughing stock in class. "Oh now don't feel sad, I'm laughing at myself than at you. Your name is probably better than what I usually go by as a nickname." Hoboken spoke in trying to cheer Ben up that he wasn't laughing at the colt, but in pointing at himself instead. "Really, what's that?" Ben's curious eyes glued to the janitor, what was worse than being labeled a mare that Hoboken got a nickname that was much different? "Hobo Joe, that's what a couple of snob stallions call me." Hoboken responded that from his look, rich ponies see him as a hobo on the street. "I work as a volunteer for the task 'too' dirty to get clean themselves and cause I'm expendable since I don't live in any homes other than in the gutter alleys." Hoboken explained about his situation, job life and where he's living. "Whah...that's horrible!" Ben responded in utter disbelief, a nice stallion was living out on the streets without a home & nobody was caring to help. "If you have such a problem, why are you working & letting those colts make fun of you?" He asked off in why this pony has to live life so harshly. "’Cause it doesn't matter," Hoboken responded, much to Ben's confusion. "I live my own policy! Ever hear of 'Sticks & Stones, may Bust my Bones, but Words will Never hurt me' nursery rhyme?" He stated in explaining something to the young colt here. "Can't say I have," Ben shrugs off his shoulders in never coming across that nursery rhyme till now. "It means that no matter what folks do to you, you shouldn't let what they say badly about yah get to you." Hoboken exclaimed the meaning behind the nursery rhyme itself. "Heck, I've lived through worst & I always look for the positive things in life just ahead of me." He stated that even through terrible situations, he has to overcome them. "After all, some folks are lucky while some ain't, but do I let that stop me? Nope! I just gotta keep my faith & look for a brighter future." From the sounds of it, this janitor was very tough to make a stand. "Wow; that is something else." Ben responded in feeling so 'awe' by a janitor Earth pony's words. "Yep, but tell me, word I hear around here...is you's got a filly interested in you. Am I right?" Hoboken nods while giving a smile in now asking something of Ben with Twilight Sparkle now. "Well...yeah...and we are good friends. But..." Ben nods nervously in agreeing to that term and he was about to mention something else, however... "Shoot, but nothing, if she be that special of a pony, then you's got to not let technical things get in your way. Now take a look at me and what do you see?" Hoboken knows that Ben was nervous about admitting about being in love & if he wants to keep it, so this guy wants to have the colt describe him suddenly. "Um..." Ben looked to Hoboken Joe, but to say what he thinks would be rude, however... "Be honest, a hobo janitor, no need to feel like hurting my feelings." Hoboken cut Ben off in seeing the nice colt didn't wanna hurt his feelings. "But let me tell you something, what would you say that I got me special pony too and she's WAY outta my league?" He stated about having a pony that's very dear to him too, and was someone that he has no chance getting. "Who's that?" Ben asked in being curious about now. "You know that art teacher unicorn with the cheery coat & orange mane with the pretty lemon yellow eyes? Also got that Cutie Mark of a board with a paintbrush making paint globs." Hoboken explained off to describe the mare that Ben was sure to know. "Miss Mona Crafts?" Ben responded in knowing instantly who the janitor was referring to. "Our fun art teacher who's love for art & creativity is noted by Canterlot?" Ben knows that the mare is very popular, even in Canterlot, is that who Hoboken was stating in his explain; really? "Yep, what you say if when I cleaned up something that somepony labeled as 'junk' and wanted me to throw away? But instead, I kept it ‘ause I thought it was a swell piece of work that some little pony made." Hoboken responded off before telling a story about what happened one eventful day. "But when I come to the class for the daily round, I find Miss Mono depressed, the room a mess, saying she lost something darn important to her that a colleague threw away!" The janitor pony exclaimed the stuff that was sounding very exciting to hear. "Wha…what happened?" Ben asked with suspense, whatever did this guy do? "Well I showed the object and she jumped for joy, cause that there was her first artwork as a filly! She treasured it ‘cause her folks said it was her best work that she ever did made. And used it for inspiration for teaching other ponies of young age," Hoboken explained with a smile in what happened there afterwards. "I told her that I found it stunning & believed nothing 'that' good belongs in the trash, but within today, not a lot of other fellas see that. And then...a spark happened." He stated that last part off about a 'spark' moment that occurred. "Really," Ben asked with curiosity, what did this mean, did his teacher & janitor...fall in love? "Yep, she's always watched how I've been mistreated all the time at work or outside, & no matter the deed, I never let it wound me. It was something she felt...connected, and shoot, guess I felt the same." Hoboken explained off about his situation and how Mona Crafts felt something for him. "And she's even thinking to help give me a better life than being the gutter in Canterlot and not some low class Earth pony. Why heck, she wouldn't care about being married to somepony like me or how others think, love is not something that comes with appearance, but from the gut." From what he said in this part, it sounds like nopony in Canterlot would stop a big celeb from marrying someone with no class at all. "Woah; that's all amazing," Ben responded with a smile; that was an amazing story to hear. "So the lesson in my story is this; don't be afraid of what others think and keep trying to get by & then something good will come your way. Heck, even love isn't impossible." Hoboken Joe smiled in seeing that with Ben, he needs to know that nothing should stop him, not even be stopped from falling in love. "Gee mister Hoboken, that's some helpful advice, I wish I could help you." Ben responded in being thankful and now he wished to help Hoboken Joe not be such a pushover guy by other bullies around here. "Well son, I know it's hard for me but you's got a future to build with lots of time, unless of course, you got a way I can work directly in the castle for the princess & be honored, 'Honorary Task Voluntary', then I could laugh myself for joy from here to Manehattan!" Hoboken shrug off his shoulders in thinking, if Ben had connections, get him a job at the castle, like that could be the day, but if it were, he be mighty happy. "Otherwise, it's not how you look that be the point, but its inside you's got to keep strong & never lose yourself, you's hear?" He points to Ben's chest, telling him to not let looks he has keeps him from showing others the real Ben Mare on the inside. "Yes sir!" Ben nods with a smile, he likes this stallion, he doesn't really know who Ben is but he's treating him like a pony should in helping a colt get through life. "Good, no mossy along now, these floors ain't gonna clean themselves. Do-dodododoo..." Hoboken Joe nods with a smile before waving his hoof for the little colt to step aside as he sings a little song to himself while cleaning the floors. As Hoboken Joe continues to clean, Ben Mare looks to him with a little appreciated smile this guy gave him. He lived through terrible things but never lets it keep him down and move forward, maybe this was an Earth Pony to help another like Ben gest over difficult challenges in his life in school, with Boris's bully gang and his feelings for Twilight. "Maybe I can talk Twilight's brother Shining to give Hoboken Joe that dream job he's always wanted, if not...maybe mom might." Ben spoke of in thinking about helping the patient Earth stallion live out his dreams after all, he's been good & should be rewarded for that. It was during this time that Flash is at the academy watching Sunset take her exam. He glances at two unicorns nearby who tried out for their exam, one of them is smoking (literally) and the other is trying to keep his plant from biting him. The examiners sat in the seats, one of them spoke to the eager Sunset, "Now, Sunset Shimmer...for your final test, you shall need to wow us. Give us the best you've got." The second examiner nods as she speaks while writing on a pad, "We're looking forward to seeing if you can top your 'synchronized dancing cats" piece from last semester. That was a dazzler!" "As Princess Celestia's own pupil, we expect big big things today!" The third examiner said in agreement. "Well, you'll certainly see that." Sunset said with a smirk. She whistles, focusing her magic on a pot inside. As the examiners watch on, it soon begins to grow. "Oh! Looks like she's going to do a growth spell...classic," The first examiner said in amazement. "But is it enough?" "Let's hope it turns out better than Juniper Berry's attempt." The second examiner remarked in amusement. Speaking of which, the said unicorn in question is yelping as his plant tries to bite him, causing him to scream, "Gah! Get off me!" Sunset decides enough with the foal player. She turns and hit the pot with a bunch of magic. Flash's eyes widen as the small sprout grows into one huge vin that quickly grows right throughout the castle like mad. Celestia was outside at this time, observing the huge vine that goes around the academy and knew who it was. She spoke, "I see somepony just passed their mid-term!" The princess heads over to the classroom, waiting to see some results. The classroom of course collapses at this time but regardless, the ones in the room praise Sunset for her success. Juniper exclaims, "Bravo! Wonderful!" "Thank you, thank you! It was nothing!" Sunset exclaims pleased with herself. She was a big hit, wasn't she? Flash hugged Sunset Shimmer for passing her test while Princess Celestia smiled gently in seeing Sunset's success. One of the Royal Guards turned and walked away from the scene; Deep in the shadows of hallway, the Royal Guard transformed into a black hooded pony who smiled in interest before he disappeared in shadows. On the other side of the castle, Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, Twilight Sparkle and Ben Mare were playing with a ball by passing one to another in enjoyment and joy. Twilight Sparkle hit the ball hard, causing it to fly up high. Shining Armor tried to hit but instead had his head hit by hitting Princess Cadance. The ball dropped down and bounced away. Twilight Sparkle and Ben Mare chuckled and giggled at the scene. Both Shining Armor and Princess Cadance rubbed off from their heads before turning at each other as they both looked both embarrassed and blushed. They both laughed together. Ben Mare turned and looked at Twilight Sparkle. He smiled gently while looking at her. The two has indeed gotten closer. Distance from Twilight, Ben, Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, another hooded pony had seen this scene as well. He smirked before the new comer turned and walked away. In a dark chamber, two hooded ponies have been gathered. The first one, the one known as the Superior, spoke, "Dark Curse." "Demon God; Have you found something interesting?" Dark Curse asks the Superior, wondering what his friend and ally has to report. "In fact, I do. It was the same filly who had spied on our 'discussion'. I had seen something special on this filly." "Really," Dark Curse asks in amusement as he licked on his mouth, much to the Superior's disgust. Why must his ally always do that? "To be honest, I have found something more interesting." "Do tell. Or should I go?" The Superior asks Dark Curse. This better be good. "You first." "I have found a filly named Sunset Shimmer. I had seen her ability and spells. They're quite perfect and magnificent. She would be perfect fit for my crusade; Pity that Sunset now belongs to Princess Celestia as a student. If my suspicions are confirmed, then she could be the one to wield that power for our conquest." Dark Curse ponders a bit then spoke, "Hmm..... interesting. But mine is even more. I had found that Ben had........feelings; For the Unicorn." "Does that concern me?" The Superior asks Dark Curse, wondering what point that the Dark Mystic Pony has to say. And which filly is Dark Curse referring to? Sunset Shimmer belongs to Flash Sentry. "Maybe not; But I have found something special on that filly. I believe her name is Twilight Sparkle." "Strange.......It is the same name as number 7's whom your apprentice had taken great interest of her like she was meant to be his wife." "Yes. But do not forget. She does not belong to this world." Dark Curse chuckled, pointing out that fact. The Superior nodded his head, understanding. "Anyway, I had sense something........familiar of Twilight's powers. She is somewhat had connection....... to Magic. If my suspicions are correct, she is the one for be your crusade. For you see, little Twilight is different; So much potential; So much power; And so much beauty within." Superior chuckled as if this was a joke to him, "I'm surprised that you had a taste for fillies." "No. I don't. But her powers are perfect and beauty. I assure you. She would be quite useful in the future." "Such as?" "Using her as a perfect hostage to this Ben, should he become a warrior. He will fail and fall to you in the future. Princess Celestia will have no choice but to surrender to you. For we know her connection to him," Dark Curse remarks cruelly. Both villains knew of Ben's true connection the princess which could be a factor in the near future. "Hmm....... Yes. Your apprentice did inform us about him, yet he chose not to kill him........ I wonder why." The Superior said, pondering. The Shadow Dragon had the opportunity to kill Ben when he was a foal years ago...but chose to spare him for some reason; Interesting. "I'm sure that must be the vision of his time has yet to come that he spoke of. If that is his reason, then we must be patient." "Very well; for now....... We watch on how it goes; First Sunset Shimmer, then Twilight Sparkle. Both will be perfect uses for our crusades. Let us see of whom is the one to wield the power of Element of Magic." Dark Curse smirked, saying, "Yes. Indeed , my lord and true........ Demon God........." "That's cool, Ben. It looks like you've made third friend." Flash said, impressed by what Ben told him. That's the second good news today, next to Sunset being accepted into Celestia's school and is now the princess's student as well as her passing her mid-term...though the Pegasus is concerned for his filly's attitude change lately. "Yeah...... He and I share the similarity yet he'd never give up. It's like those awful words or things that meant to hurt him never bother him. He's cool." Ben said to Flash with a smile. Flash smiled, while adding, "I'm glad you learn of that. You know...... I heard about Hoboken Joe. He used to be a Royal Guard." "Really; How?" "Well, they said that Hoboken Joe is the best fighter and warrior among Canterlot for not only fighting and battling against the enemies, but he saved lives." "Wow?! Really," Ben asks Flash in amazement. He has never heard that part about his new friend until now! Amazing! Flash nodded, saying, "Eeyup. They said that Hoboken Joe may have strange ways to do or doing something, but he had good wisdom of helping others, no matter how different the ponies are." "Wow. It's amazing." Flash smiled, speaking, "You bet . So, here's the thing. I may not have been there for you, but with another Royal Guard on your side, you can ask him for help." "Thanks Flash. I will. By the way, do you have any strange feeling that something hits our head like losing something important?" Ben asks Flash a bit puzzled. He has a weird feeling that the pony has forgotten something. "Beats me; I had the feeling too. Ow...... Boy, talk about having a headache." "Shut up." Laxtinct remarks, crossing his upper fore arms, making the other ponies laugh. "May, talk about your irony." Midnight Moonlight remarks in amazement. "So Sunset was in grandma's school during this time?" Nyx ask Flash curiously. "Yes, she was...if only I would've realized about her behavior sooner." Flash said with a sigh. Princess Celestia is concerned about Sunset's latest behavior with her fellow students, especially when it comes to making friends. As the two trot down a hallway, the princess spoke, "Sunset Shimmer, I have heard that you're not getting along well with the other students...we 've talked about the fact that personal relationships..." "Personal relationships," Sunset ask with a scoff. As far as she knows, the filly only wants Flash, not anypony else! "Who needs anypony? The most important thing in life is to be the best." "We've talked about friendship and its importance before, and we've discussed that you need to start opening yourself up to new friends. And remember that talk we had about humility?" "I remember how boring it was." Celestia decides that perhaps she should show her student something, something that could help Sunset Shimmer learn friendship as well as humility, whatever she wants to or nothing. The Alicorn takes the unicorn into room that has some sort of mirror in it. "Look into this mirror and tell me what you see." Celestia said to Sunset with a grin. Sunset did so, and grins slyly, seeing her reflection while saying, "A beautiful pony that has nothing but power and potential." This made the Alicorn roll her eyes at this. "Care to try that again with our talk about humility taken into account?" "I see a pony whose isn't powerful enough. Somepony who could be great, powerful..." Sunset remarked, grinding her teeth. As she looks into the mirror some more, the unicorn sees that with Celestia behind herself, her own reflection looks like that Sunset is an Alicorn, crown and all, "Somepony that could rule Equestria." "Maybe we better move on..." Celestia said in concern. Perhaps the mirror is causing more harm than good. Sunset was about to leave when she notices something in the mirror, some sort of apelike creature that oddly looks like her... "Wait, what was that? I thought I saw..." Celestia looks concerned then pushes Sunset away from the mirror, glancing at it though. Something that her student saw has concerned her. "Oh, it was probably a trick of the light. Our lesson is over for today." Celestia said in concern, wanting Sunset to leave the room and the mirror, hopefully for a long time. "I want you to reflect on the discussion we've just had." "Hmm," Sunset said with a frown. Something about that mirror... Sunset Shimmer was seen looking miserable over her failed attempt to get her teacher to talk about that mirror, now she'll have to try again another time. She was seen walking down a dark alley from being lost in her thought while looking for Flash. "You seem discourage, little one." Spoke a voice that came from behind the filly. "Hugh?" Sunset yelped to look behind her to find...a mysterious hooded cloak stallion she never seen before. "Who...who are you, mister?" She asked cause she never seen this creature, but in truth, it was the Superior, she would have known if not for the memory erase event. "Do not fear, I am here to help you. I can see the hidden magic potential you have; it only needs guidance to blossom." The Superior spoke in wishing to help the child realize her dream. "Well, you think so; I couldn't get my teacher to tell me about that mirror!" Sunset mopes in seeing she failed to get Celestia to talk about the mirror; something about it that the Alicorn prefers not to talk about. "There will be other times, but you must make up now to find out the next time. I can very much show you the way." The Superior spoke off in stating this matter that not all things can be too late. "You can?" Sunset raised an eyebrow puzzled. "But....you must accept this gift to help you grow." Superior issued this off in wanting to extent his hoof. Then when Sunset Shimmer touched the stallion's cloak, a strange invisible darkness seeped into her and an orb seems planted inside her. "Wha...what happened?" Sunset Shimmer asked off in not understanding what happened to her just now. "Just a little seed of power to help you bloom," The Superior issued off in what this little magic will do. "I am the Superior, and I will watch over your growth, and if you can achieve great enough power, you'll earn a seat at the table of only the most powerful ponies in all of Equestria." The Superior explained himself and of the goal for achieving such a position. "All of Equestria? Even Princess Celestia," Sunset asked off surprise in hearing of this. "Yes, even more powerful than her. Are you interested?" Superior spoke in nodding while wanting to know, was Sunset interested in what he had to offer? The child did not know it, but her guard was down that the inner darkness glowed over her little magic aura and seems to turn her lost puzzled expression to one of dark determination even more than that of her arrogance. "Ye...yes...yes I am! When do I get started?" Sunset spoke in agreeing to this, starting her path to darkness. "Your teachings to power shall be taught by I & Celestia, but I will arrive when you don't know it, a place where the mind can be filled." Superior explained things to which left any puzzled. "Hugh?" Sunset was baffled; she did not get much of that. "I shall see you another time.....in your dreams." The Superior spoke in preparing to teach the child things, when she sleeps. And with that, the Superior vanished in a corridor of darkness before anyone even could see he was around. "Sunset Shimmer, looks like you're on your way to stardom." Sunset Shimmer smiled off with a strange more arrogant tone in having scored a big prize. Soon Sunset made it out, and there Flash was there from looking for her, but she said she was fine, in fact...she was better than fine. As she left with a strange smug look, Flash was left puzzled, that seem a little different from how Sunset usually acts before following. But neither saw the Superior's dark portal watching them leave. "In a matter of years, your light will wither and you'll become a servant to the dark. To serve me & the organization's cause for freeing the true ruler within Tartarus. I will watch your progress Sunset Shimmer, and very soon, I shall acquire Twilight Sparkle to join among ranks." With those evil & sneaky words spoken, did the Superior's portal of darkness vanished without anyone seeing or hearing what he has done. "Anyway, things got a bit intense...especially around the time of the Summer Sun Celebration..." Flash said, recalling what happened next. "Summer Sun Celebration is coming. I don't know what to do....... Boris will be there........ He will do anything to beat me down, so I won't get close to Twilight." Ben said meekly. He told his mother and got her permission to attend the Summer Sun Celebration with Twilight. But what worries him is that Boris will show up to causes more trouble. Flash scoffed, "Like that's gonna happen." He took a cloak out, giving it to his best friend. "Besides, with this, Boris won't know the differences and it'll be hard for him to find you." "You'd think it would work?" "What did I say before?" Ben chuckles, saying, "Don't think. Believe in it." "What was the rule about the cloak?" Flash reminds Ben with a smirk. "Helps you in stealth and sticks to shadows so your enemy won't find you. Cool." "It is, my friend. So get out there and start sticking with your Twilight!" The Summer Sun Celebration has come at last and the ponies of Canterlot are of course there to watch the ruler Celestia raise the sun. Twilight moves up front to get a good look at the event. "Twilight, you made it!" A familiar voice spoke up. Twilight smiles as she saw Ben nearby, wearing some sort of cloak. "Ben! I'm glad to see you here, too!" Twilight giggles in delight. "Why are you wearing a cloak?" "To keep Boris and his goons from seeing me with you, what else," Ben points out in concern. Even being near Twilight would mean Boris will get an excuse to want to hurt the poor Earth pony. Well, still, the purple unicorn refuses to let that creep hurt Ben...not again or ever. "Well, don't you worry, Ben," Twilight said, "There's no way I'll let that conceited jerk get you this time." "Thank you, Twilight." The brown earth pony said with a smile, "You're the best friend I ever met." "And...you're my best friend, too..." Twilight said with a blush. She smiles, noticing that Ben is blushing, while trying to hide it. It makes one wonder if these two ponies really do like one another. The two friends watch in awe with the others in the crowd as the event occurred; Celestia arrived and raised the sun like she always does every morning or at this great celebration. "Wow!" Ben exclaimed in amazement as the crowd cheered and applauded. A while later, after the celebration was over, the ponies head on home. Twilight and Ben were hanging out while the unicorn said, "Amazing. Celestia was able to do that...with magic even." "I can imagine that she always has that power." Ben chuckles to Twilight a bit. "Perhaps...I should do some magic myself. I mean, I am a unicorn and if I practice hard enough..." Twilight said in thought. Who knows? If she studies and practice magic, maybe someday, she will be as good as Celestia herself...or close to her, anyway. Ben smiles, putting one arm around Twilight while saying, "Twilight, you should go for it. You dreamt of being a great magic user likes Celestia, right? You told me one time. I say again, you should go for it. If you tried your best, you will do fine. "You're right! I'll do it!" Twilight said eagerly with a smile, "I'll study and practice magic! I'll be like Celestia!" Then she hugged Ben joyfully as she said, "Oh, Ben, thank you so much!" "You're welcome..." Ben said while hugging Twilight right back. He then let go and gave a weird wave to her. "Well...I gotta go home now. See ya later, Twi." Twilight wave right back before smiling as Ben departs. She always wonder what's feel so right about being with him. Could it be that Twilight has found him: her special somepony? And her teasing her big brother who hangs with her foalsitter Cadance was funny enough! Ben doesn't know it but Boris was following him and Twilight...and as usual, the bully wasn't happy at all! Boris groaned as he was about to attack on Ben from the back. However Flash came in front of Boris from out nowhere, smirking as he spoke, "Boris the Animal." "It's just Boris! Wouldn't it kill you to stop calling me that?!" Boris demands angrily to Flash. Who is this Pegasus dolt?! "Wouldn't it kill you to stop hurting my Earth Pony friend?!" "So, you're him! You must be Flash." Flash smirked, saying mockingly, "Eeyup." "I'm gonna teach you a lesson!" Boris growls furiously to Flash. He is going to punish this Pegasus colt for meddling in his affairs! Boris used his magic on objects such as garbage, broken glasses, banana splits and more at Flash Sentry. The future Royal Guard dodged and flew over him. Boris used his Magic Blast on Flash but again he dodged again. Boris used two attack types against Flash but he dodged the attacks. Boris groaned in anger as he used his levitation spell on Flash, causing him to being dragged towards him. Flash smirked as he start beating up at Boris for many times: face, body and legs. Boris gasped in tiredness and exhausted. The friend smirked as he pushed his hoof on his head, causing him to fall down. Flash glared at Boris, saying sternly, "Now listen carefully. I'm done of seeing and hearing Ben's been bullied by the likes of you. You may think of Ben being weak. To me, he's strong and heroic. And trust me, I know him better than you are." Boris groaned in pain, "Why....... why help the likes of him?" "Equality; No matter how different we are, we are the same: comrades, friends and brothers. I see Ben......as a brother to me. And I won't let you get away with this." "How....." "Like I said, you know nothing about Ben than I do. So read my lips, freak: Leave- Him- Alone." Flash demands to Boris sternly. The colt is not going to give the same warning twice. Next time will be personal! "Yes sir!" Boris exclaims a bit nervously. Flash means business! "Now beat it!" "Oh man!" Rainbow laughs, almost shooting out Apple Cider out of her nose. "That was awesome." "I know, you rock," Blaze Leo said to Flash with a smile. "Boris didn't learn his lesson later but that's okay. I made my point clear." Flash said proudly. He then looks down sadly. "Of course, then Sunset became mean and terrible...and after she went too far...we broke up." "Oh, poor Flash." Fluttershy said, patting Flash on the back. "I know." "You know what's fascinating?" Sunset ask her teacher as the two are having a picnic in the park. Of course, Celestia groans a bit. Ever since she shown her that mirror, that is all the unicorn wants to talk about. She isn't ready. "Mirrors...about the one in..." "Sunset Shimmer; we've been over this, we will get to the mirror and many other lessons in due time...when you're ready." Celestia scolds Sunset, making her frown angrily. As clouds form while it begins to rain, the Alicorn heads off as if ending the subject with her student who glares as she leaves herself. "I am ready." Sunset is getting disgusted, how could Celestia not tell her about the mirror?! She decided to do something about it but first, the filly wants to take her frustration out by using her magic to knock ponies in trash cans, making them scream in pain and even send food right onto them. It kinda cheers her up...have what happened next didn't occurred. Flash saw what Sunset did to the poor and innocent fillies, foals, elders and family when she used the magic on them. Angrily, the Pegasus snaps angrily to her, "Is this what you want? I hope you're happy! Happy to get anything you want because I'm not happy for what you did!" "Wait, what are you talking about?" Sunset ask Flash in concern and worry. She didn't even notice him there until it was too late. "Sunset; how could you do something stupid?! How could be so selfish?!" "What's wrong with you?! I thought you support me." "I am; But not in this kind of situation. What happen to the one I love and admire with?" Flash ask Sunset in disbelief. His filly is turning cruel and dishonest every day. "The one who you believe will do anything to prove Equestria that she is better and powerful! I'll be the new ruler! I know it! It's my destiny!" Sunset exclaims to Flash angrily. "When it happens, I want you to be my prince. And together we will take over her kingdom." "No." "What?! Why?! Don't you want to become a king, so everyone respect you?" Flash shakes his head, saying, "I do; But not this way. I will never do something stupid or disloyalty to my family's and Princess Celestia." "Why," Sunset demands to Flash in disbelief. She wanted to be with him, to rule this kingdom especially with the Superior helping her out! And maybe Sunset could finally figure out the deal with that mirror. "Because....... one day, I want you to meet........ her son." Flash said in sadness. Sunset is shocked to hear this. The princess has a son? "That son....... is the first friend that I want to help and protect as his knight. But I guess this is not the way I want you to meet Ben." "Wait...... You're not saying that......." "Ben is the one that we had discussed." Sunset shook her head, saying, "No! I refused to believe! She doesn't have any child!" Celestia couldn't have a son; why didn't she even mention him to her?! "Believe it or not; I won't betray my family and Princess Celestia. I won't betray him." Flash sighed. "Sunset...... I'm sorry, but........ If you keep up like this...... then....... it's over for us." "What?! No!" "I'm sorry....... I can't stay with you anymore. The one I call Sunset Shimmer....... you took her away from me......." Flash walked away from her. While walking, the colt had his tears come down from his eyes. He has lost the filly that the Pegasus wanted to be with...forever... "Flash; FLASH; FLASH," Sunset exclaims to Flash in horror and sadness. But he just kept on trotting. "Oh man, you and Sunset broke up?" Ben ask Flash in concern. The Pegasus was helping the colt with his room and told his best friend what has happened. "I'm sorry but the Sunset Shimmer I knew is gone forever. I just wish I knew what happened." Flash sighs in sadness. "You're lucky, Ben. You still got your filly." "We haven't got together yet Flash. But calm down. I'm sure Sunset Shimmer will come to her senses once mom straightens her out." "I'm afraid that won't happen anytime soon, Ben." Celestia said in concern as she trots into the room. The princess has overheard the conversion and decides to step in. "She's gone. Sunset Shimmer is no longer my student." "Why? What happened?" Flash ask the princess in shock. "My librarian caught her in the Dark Magic library, off limits to everypony except me and some officials. She was looking through some books; I can't tell you what the details are. Things went bad...I was forced to remove her from the position of my pupil." "Wow, mommy," Ben said in concern and worry. "She must be taking this hard." Celestia pauses as if hesitating then answers, "She was...and then...Sunset Shimmer disappeared." "She disappeared?" Flash ask Celestia in shock. Right after Sunset Shimmer was removed as the Alicorn's student, she disappeared. "Again, I can't tell you further details." Celestia said in sadness, looking away. The truth be told, Sunset Shimmer broke into the Dark Magic library to find out more about the mirror. And when Celestia found out, the unicorn demands that she makes her a princess, but the Goddess of the Sun refused, saying that being a princess must be earned. She was trying to teach Sunset everything but the filly've turned from the teachings...plus, proving that everything Sunset claims that she 'deserve' to get something without the effort means that the arrogant and cruel filly is not ready. Celestia removes Sunset from the position of her pupil, forbidding her from the castle before ordering the guards to escort the former student out...but the filly ambushes them both and jumps into the mirror, going into another world... Celestia saw Flash falling to the floor, crying. Ben hugs his best friend to comfort the poor colt, believing that his breakup with her must've led to these events. "I thought that my breakup with Sunset Shimmer was the reason she disappeared, but had I known about the mirror before..." Flash said sadly, shaking his head. "It’s okay, Flash; The Superior was the one to blame, not you." Nyx said to Flash with a gentle smile. The Pegasus guard smiles, trying his best to cheer up. "Thanks Nyx. Now then, it's during this time of Twilight performing magic...and around the time of me training...to be a Royal Guard at last..." At the arena, Princess Celestia, Lieutenant Hardstone and Ben watched the battlefield carefully. Flash came out from the north entrance. He wore golden armor and a helmet as the colt held his sword and shield. Flash prepared himself in battle. Despite his breakup with Sunset and her disappearance, he isn't going to let that ruin his focus. "Do you think Flash will; pass his test, mom?" Ben asks Celestia curiously. "This is his final test. Flash had been through the Strategy Test, Commanding Test, Aerial Test, Dragon Riding Test, Speed Test, Strength Test, Obedient Test, History Test, Weapon Making Test and now the Duel Test. Flash's the best." "I believe so. I'm sure he'll be fine. Besides, Ben, you and him are in for a surprise." Celestia said to Ben with a smirk as if knowing something that her son doesn't. The colt turned and gasped as he saw Azure Phoenix and a crimson armored Pegasus coming out from the south. "Is that -?" "Azure Phoenix; I requested him to bring the best soldier to face against Flash. He chose one of Bladestrike's subordinates." Ben gulped, "I hope he's okay." Weird, there's something familiar about that pony that Azure brought out... "He will be." Hardstone assures Ben with a smile. Flash will be fine. "Remember; do not give him a chance. I want you to give him the best. Show him why you are known as the Eagle Warrior." Azure explains to Blazefist wisely. "Yes sir" Blazefist said, saluting Azure before he turn to face Flash. "So, we meet again." Of course, the Mystic Pony knew that the colt doesn't remember him but what a way to freak him out, eh? "Wow. I'd never thought I'd be facing one of Phoenix Kingdom's officers. This is awesome." Flash said impressed. Weird, this soldier looks familiar... With the gong sounding, Flash charged in as he strike against his enemy with his sword but Blazefist blocked the attacks with his might of the twin swords. The Mystic Pony pushed his swords against Flash's sword back. Blazefist quickly strikes his sword against the Pegasus whom quickly blocks the attacks with his shield. For a couple of times, the opponent continued his assault on Flash's shield until the young soldier moved to his left side. Flash quickly hits against Blazefist's face. Blazefist smirked as both Pegasi continued swinging their swords against each other and sometimes they blocked, and dodged down up, down, left and right from each other's attacks. The Mystic Pony jumped up as he was about to attack against Flash whom quickly rolled over to his left. As Blazefist slammed his swords onto the ground hard, the young soldier quickly kick against his chest for a few times until Blazefist grabbed Flash's hooves as he quickly slammed the young Pegasus on two sides for a few times. "Whoa!" Ben exclaims. "That soldier strikes hard." "Indeed . This is the first time in ages that he got a fight." Celestia comments, much to Ben's confusion. "I saw him fight of course." "Yes, Flash got a big fight on his hooves." Hardstone commented, nodding a bit. Flash lay on the ground. He struggled to get up while glaring at Blazefist who ask in amusement, "Give up?" Flash scoffed, "Don't think so." This is one colt whose isn't going down so easily. Flash quickly got up as he strikes his sword against Blazefist whom quickly dodged away for a few times while beating him down with his punching and kicking. The opponent gave the final attack in kicking at Flash's chest. "Give up?" Blazefist ask Flash once more. "Never," Flash refuses. "Tell me....... Warrior, why must you keep resisting? You know that you do not possess the means of winning." Azure said to Flash, trying to reason with the stubborn colt. "Coz........ I want to help. I want to help and protect Ben at all cost. Ben means so much to me; It worth to my effort and strength. I'm not gonna let him down because I am his Knight and his best friend. I won't let him down. I won't go down without a fight." "Flash........" Ben said, amazed by his best friend's loyalty and determination. Azure chuckled calmly, "Impressive. Such skill and motivated you possessed, you truly had become a worthy warrior." With that, he signals Blazefist to back off. "Wait!" Flash exclaims in sorry, wondering what's going on. "You're saying that......" Ben begins to say, hoping for the best. Azure smiles as he turns to Celestia, saying, "Princess Celestia. Flash Sentry is considered to be worthy as one of your Royal Guards." Ben and Flash cheered out loud happily. Suddenly the Earth pony gasps as he saw something appear on his friend's flank. "Flash; Look! Your flank," Ben exclaims to Flash in amazement. Flash took a look and saw a two-tone sapphire blue shield behind a yellow lightning bolt. It's his Cutie Mark! He has one at last! "My Cutie Mark; I have one! Yeah," Flash cheers on wildly. His Cutie Mark has arrived at last! "It looks like he has a shield. Ha! Just like mine," Hardstone comment, proud of his son's Cutie Mark. "It could mean one thing. Because of Flash's friendship with Ben, he earns that mark as symbol of caring and protecting his friend. Well done," Celestia said, proud of this. This means that Ben and Flash would be friends for a long time...or is it? In the present, Pinkamena was reading something and says in mind, 'Well seems to me that her name is really Autumn Gem when I looked on wiki, hmmm? Oh well, might be a mistake but I am not sure but Autumn Gem and Arctic Gem? I think both are good names but that will be up to JusSonic to decide what name will fit her well in this fic series." Getting back to the ponies, Nyx cheers on, "Wow, Uncle Flash. You did great when you became a Royal Guard for the first time!" "Yeah, I know. For a moment, we felt like things will be like that forever." Flash remark with a light chuckle. "I was proud of my buddy Flash. I felt like once I confessed my feelings to Twilight, she will have an extra friend as well." Ben remarks with a chuckle. "Then came that moment that changed everything for the best but at the same time, the worst," Flash said seriously. "Of course, you are aware of Twilight's quest for magic as well as her parents enrolling her into Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, correct?" "Yeah. So?" Rainbow asked, remembering that day. "We also know of Boris mocking Ben, Twilight giving him that scarf to assure him that they will be together always." Fluttershy said to Flash with a nod. "As well as Twilight getting 'dat there gift from Ben," Applejack exclaims, revealing the necklace that Ben gave Twilight that restored him years later...well, she didn't get it right away. "Well, Ben came along and told me about his filly's being accepted and hopes that she will be passes her entrance exam..." Flash said, getting to that part of the story now. "You'd think Twilight's gonna pass her test? I know I should believe, but........" Ben begins to ask Flash, getting worried. What if Twilight fails her exam? It will break her heart and dash her dreams. "Hey. Don't tell me you're giving up so easily." Flash said to Ben in disapproval. Twilight earned the right to prove herself and yet her colt is worried that she won't make it? "No, I'm not!" Ben exclaims to his best friend in concern. "Sounded like one." Flash remarks to Ben skeptically. Ben sighs as he admits, "Okay, fine, you win . But still, do you think she can do it?" Flash smiled as he answers that question, "Never give up. That's what. And it's one of what?" "One of the Royal Guard's number one rules," Ben comments, recalling that rule so well. Flash smiled, saying, "Exactly. So go out and support Twilight. I want some report from you when you're done." "Yes sir." Ben said, saluting Flash as he leaves. Perhaps his friend is right. He should support Twilight, knowing that the colt is there to be by her side. "Getting nervous, Twiley?" Shining ask his sister with a smile as the filly prepares herself for her big day, one that could change her life forever (unknown to Twilight at the time). "A bit," Twilight said in concern. "What if they want me to pass an entrance exam? What if I failed?" "Whoa, whoa, Twiley, calm down. They wouldn't give you something difficult that will assure that you fail big time, right? Trust me, as your big brother, I have confidence that you would proceed." "Yeah...maybe you're right. Shining...did I tell you about what I talked with Ben earlier?" "No, what is it?" Shining ask Twilight curiously. "Well, he wanted me to answer a question: if I would be his special somepony or not?" Twilight ask, with a blush on her face. Shining grins, the big brother has gotten his answer already. "I knew it. You wanted to be his special somepony do you?" "Yes. Oh, my stomach is full of butterflies. I hope that my entrance exam wouldn't make me put off my answer or anything." "Relax, Twilight." Shining assures his sister as he nuzzles her a bit. "I'm assured that you will do fine. You will see." Twilight nods, she hopes to Celestia that the judges for the entrance exam doesn't give her anything...too hard, right? What the hay was she thinking?! The next day, her parents brought Twilight to the school and right in a lecture hall...and as the filly fears, she has to pass an entrance exam to get in! Four examiners are in their seats, holding down clipboards and paper, preparing to see if she's edible or not. Night Light and Twilight Velvet watch, prompting her to keep her head up and smile. Twilight gulps a bit and tries to do so. She wonders how Ben deals with this kind of thing, being nervous of course. Suddenly the filly near jumped out of her coat as a door is heard opening. A stallion came in, pushing a cart filled with straw and a one, large spotted egg. There is a sign on the cart's side that depicts the egg hatching and a Dragon popping out, instructions for the examinee. "Now then, you may begin." One examiner said to Twilight sternly. The stallion pushes the cart over to the filly who eyes it uncertainly while the delivery stallion backs out of the room. "Well, Miss Sparkle?" Hoo boy, this is difficult. Twilight gave the egg a good look and giggles nervously before sighing. The examiners use their pencils to take notes on their clipboard. The filly grits her teeth, sweating a bit. What will she do? Twilight is startled as another committee coughs. The filly backs up and aims her horn at the egg. She concentrates a bit, Twilight cannot fail this. She groans while doing her best...but all she does was sends out a little spark from the tip and made the third examiner yawn; Unimpressive. "We don't have all day." The female examiner remarks dryly while checking her watch. Twilight looks worried. This was the most important day of her life, her entire future would be affected by the outcome of this day...and she was about to blow it! Twilight send out one more spark...but it fizzles out. The filly sighs sadly as she belly flops to the lecture hall floor, then got up to sit on her haunches. Perhaps Twilight wasn't meant to be studying under Princess Celestia at all. Perhaps she's better off being a magic-less pony. "I'm sorry I wasted your time." Twilight said in a small voice. The examiners jot down some notes. Looks like she failed... At this time, Ben Mare was seen sitting under a tree, looking up towards the sky. He lets off a sigh in sounding...a little sad. The Earth colt knows that today is the day Twilight takes the entrance exam for Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. But, deep down, Ben was worried if his mother would truly see something special about Twilight as he had, or would Celestia break the filly's dream by not accepting her, the one that he cares for. So many questions were going through Ben's mind that a familiar 'friend' of his happens to come by. "Shoot, what seems to be troubling ya Ben?" Ben turned to the voice, only to see Hoboken Joe coming by while pushing a cart of recyclable stuff & some picked up trash across the streets in Canterlot. "Hoboken Joe; I...didn't see you there. What are you doing?" Ben responded a bit surprise to see his other friend, even an Earth Pony janitor, was nearby, but why? "My job, of course, or did ya forget that I'm a janitor, plus volunteer to take up jobs that no other fancy pony in their right mind would wanna get dirty to do." Hoboken explained off in stating his reason of being here was to do his job. "Right, sorry." Ben responded a bit cheekily before looking away, he was so distracted in thought, he forgot about that reason. "Well come on now Ben, what's eaten' ya up?" Hoboken Joe asked from coming over to se what was making the colt feel blue. "It's my friend, Twilight Sparkle." Ben addressed off the manner of what's got his attention. "You's friend, or ya mean you's special pony?" Hoboken smiled to make a little joke to cheer up this colt. "Well...she's taking part in Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns." Ben smiled mostly before looking worried with concerns. "By golly, that's great to hear. She must be one talented little filly for ya!" Hoboken responded surprise to hear Ben's filly friend is taking part in such a special place for gifted unicorns. "Yeah, but I'm hoping she does well, I'm worried about what happen if she...fails...what should I do?" Ben responded off in having second thoughts that while he believes Twilight will do fine, what happens if she doesn't pass, what should he say or do then? "Well that there is up to them teachers to decide, plus the princess." Hoboken pointed off that unless Twilight shows potential, then the staff or Celestia could make an expectation this time. "But shoot, unless you's got a connection to Celestia to ask her nicely to have Twilight pass, then the filly has to show her stuff...on her own." He stated off that unless Celestia sees Twilight is special, maybe Ben could get the princess to take the filly under her wing. "Really; Wha...what kinda sign should we look for? If it can help Twilight, then I..." Ben asked off in hearing this, maybe if they find it now, it can help Twilight all the more. "Slow down, Ben, signs that tell us about future stuff ain't gonna appear from the sky." Hoboken held up his hooves to state how they can't go looking for a sign to tell them the future, it just happens. "Maybe, but..." Ben looked a little down; he was sure hoping to find a sign that could help with Twilight, if only it could happen. "BOOOMFRUVHMMM..." Suddenly, something happened that caused the entire area itself to shake from strong explosive vibration. This caught a lot of certain ponies' attention and more so than others. "WAAAAUGH; Duck and cover; It's another pony Warfare!" Hoboken Joe cried out before jumping on Ben Mare, covering the colt like some solider taking a blast. "Where are them Apples? We need them out here, FAAAST!" The stallion was looking around for some Apples in question to appear, but why? "Augh, Hoboken! What are you talking about, there's no war happening! It sounded like it came above us!" Ben tried to push his friend off of him while calming Hoboken down about where the noise of origin came from. And just above the view of Canterlot, all could see what appeared to be a rainbow...but it was shot off like a ring that spread across the skies. The colors were seen far and wide, so many and in a large scale, it was a marvel of beauty and wonderment ponies haven't ever come across before in their lives. "Well, shoot my bickers & call me Shirley!" Hoboken calmed down enough to stand up and look at the marvel in the sky. "Your name's Shirley?" Ben raised an eyebrow in what Hoboken said was his name, not getting it was a metaphor reply. "Noooo, I mean that there! In the sky! That rainbow," Hoboken shook off the silly colt's misunderstanding to look up in the sky. "Why, I do believe it's a rare anomaly!" He held his chin in pondering what they happen to have here. "Really, what kind," Ben asked a bit intrigued in what they are seeing is a rare sight. "Heck, it's different from a Rainbow some Pegasus use, yet it had a...'boom' effect, plus its course work is like a shockwave we refer as; a sonic boom." Hoboken Joe was putting together some parts in what they had here and the meaning of stuff that could explain the creation of this new trick in the skies. "Heck, I do think that maybe it's a; 'Sonic Rainboom', if any, ya know, people call it that. It's an old wise-mare's tale." He declared while shrugging off his shoulders in thinking, folks could call it whatever, but it had the workings of a sonic boom mix with a rainbow; so hence, maybe in the future be described as a Sonic Rainboom. "Wow; that sounds amazing! Who do you think did it?" Ben responded in liking the sounds of the name and thought of whoever done this. "My guess, a very special Pegasus; There ain't that many that could pull off such an unusual display work." Hoboken Joe looked up at the sky to try to see who done the trick, it HAD to have been a Pegasus, but whoever done it was too far and tiny to be seen. "Do you think that's the sign that we were looking for?" Ben asked Hoboken if the Sonic Rainboom they saw is a sign to tell them about Twilight. "If not, then my kin-eye work is telling me that I ain't seeing a Dragon head pop out of the building that's supposed to be where the entrance exam your filly friend is partaking in!" Hoboken turned his head in issuing something even stranger yonder that sounded more bizarre than seeing a rare Sonic-Rainboom display. True to Hoboken Joe's words, from his and Ben's spot, they had a view of the building where Twilight was gonna enter to pass the exam to get in Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns; when some big-headed Dragon head bust the ceiling off. Now a lot of folks were surprised, but some got worried from a few sparks of electricity shooting off from the windows & the ceiling hole. It wasn't long before that Dragon head that broke the roof of the palace suddenly vanished without a trace. "Woah, what happened now?" Ben asked off in never believing that just happened now. "Beats me, but I can think of one thing." Hoboken shook his head in being stump surprise too, but thought for a moment about all of this. "Unexpected rainbow display, a sudden dragon broke out of the roof of a palace, nobody knew about or seen a big dragon come to Canterlot today, while today is the exam for Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns." He thought long and hard about all this strange events, and came to a conclusion. "Hmm, I do declare that these signs must mean....your filly passed." Hoboken Joe turned to Ben with a smile in stating to the colt that this all meant that Twilight passed her entry exam. "Hugh? Re-Really," Ben was so stun and shocked, that words didn't come out of his mouth. "Shoot, I bet'cha the apple mark on my flank here that not only did Twilight pass, but maybe got a Cutie Mark to boot!" Hoboken pointed an apple on his flank with his other stuff mark there in stating that maybe Twilight Sparkle also found her talent for a Cutie Mark to appear. "You really think so? Gosh, that would be so amazing if Twilight gotten her Cutie Mark on the day of passing the exam!" Ben exclaimed off in never guessing that Twilight would be so amazing to do all of that. "Though what it look like, that's a tricky one. Any guesses?" Hoboken rubbed his noggin in trying to have the two guess, what image of a Cutie Mark Twilight had discovered? "Um how's about...something to do with stars?" Ben slowly responded in his first guess for the special pony of his. "Eh, good enough for me to think that it's durable. What with her name being like Twilight, and Sparkle, gives away the ideal point of sparky stars in the twilight." Hoboken shrug off in saying that guess alone seems to fit Twilight perfectly and on Ben's first try too. "Boy, I can't wait to know how she did!" Ben smiled and jumps for joy, he really wants to see and hear the news from Twilight. "By the way, why did you act that way about an attack & something with apples?" The young colt looked to Hoboken Joe puzzled about how he was acting strangely for a guy that looks like a hobo. "Well, can't give ya much, but I was once a part of a battle, well...more like a war that happened and ya see...when I said Apples, those were some ponies that I knew." Hoboken rubbed his back neck in struggling to say these things about his past in which he fought in a war once and knew some ponies by the Apple name. "Wait, when did we have a war? And who are the Apples?" Ben asked off in never hearing about them having a war or about some ponies that had an apple relationship. "Sorry Ben, it's an old history that I can't tell ya until you's is older." Hoboken Joe shook his head 'no' that the tale of such a time when ponies were at war is too much for a little colt to hear about; too scary. "As for the Apples, let's just say....I'm connected to them by the known Earth pony farmers group called the Apple Family." He shrugs off to look at his Cutie Mark, remembering days about some group that were Earth ponies from a family group. "Really," Ben responded a bit surprise, so there were more Earth ponies, even farmers that earn some reputation. "Yeah, and the tale...is kinda painful." Hoboken looked away in almost showing a sorrow expression; it almost got Ben's attention... till the stallion snap out of it. "But enough sass about me, think about present time here. You should get ready when you see Twilight, and best prepare for some shocking news, other than her acceptance & Cutie Mark discovery." Hoboken Joe issued that Ben should just quickly get going to meet up with Twilight to hear the side of news from her and much more. "Gotta book it Hoboken; Seeya!" Ben nods with a smile before suddenly racing off with much speed. As Ben was racing down, Hoboken Joe return to the stuff he left when he talked to the colt. But before moving, he looked to his flank and rubbed the apple mark with a little smile while looking off at a distance Ben Mare. "Hugh, that boy is something special, might not be a unicorn, but my gut tells me that there's something magical about him." Hoboken Joe exclaimed in feeling that Ben Mare is a pony of much hidden potential, more so then any of them can believe. "Just like in those days with the family...hugh, how that day still remains." He looked to the apple mark to sigh with some form of grief, recalling something connecting with the Apple Family & from a previous war battle. But then he snaps his attention on the present. "Aw shoot, I forgot my own advice; look positive during any moment, well then...time I got cracking now! Dum-dumdilly-um-bumbum..." Soon Hoboken Joe regains his positive motive, and started to once again sing a little song to pass the time while he moved along in doing his other task jobs. As Ben was heading back home, let's go back a few minutes or so to what happened during Twilight's exam. Twilight looks down, feeling like she fails...when sometime shocking happens: a distant explosion shakes the room with a rainbow blast wave appearing in the window, spreading over the sky. Twilight is startled as her horn came to life with a beam that is send towards the cart, hitting the egg as a result. The egg levitates out of the straw before breaking open. The Ponies looks astounded as a baby purple Dragon appears, yawning and stretching. But Twilight's magic didn't stop there. The filly gave out a panicked yelp as her eyes begin glowing purple white, growing as big as hockey pucks. The power begins glowing over the whole room before enveloping her in a purple/white corona. "Twilight," Night Light ask his daughter in concern. What is going on? The lightning bolts thrown off let the examiners float clear of their seats, turn Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle into potted plants, and grow the little purple Dragon so large that his head and shoulders punch through the roof of the building. Celestia was outside when this happened, seeing the transformed Dragon. She knew who could be responsible. "So it is her." Celestia said thoughtfully as she quickly gallops into the building. Twilight could be the one after all. Back in the lecture hall, Twilight floats on helplessly, unable to stop levitating herself as well as get her powers under control. Just then a white hoof touches her on the shoulder, making her turn. There she is, Celestia who is smiling serenely to her. The filly finally snaps out of it, her eyes return to normal as the power breaks. All of the accidentally magic is undone with the baby Dragon returning to his infant state, smiling as he sucks peacefully on his tail. "Twilight Sparkle," Celestia begins to say. "I'm so sorry!" Twilight exclaims in worry, fearing the worst. Not good, the princess of Equestria is here...and she may end up rejecting her from the school...or worst, have the poor filly banished from Canterlot! She may never see Ben again! "I didn't mean to..." Celestia interrupts Twilight, smiling as she said, "You have a very special gift. I don't think I've ever come across a unicorn with your raw abilities." "Huh?" Twilight asked in surprise and confusion. "But you need to learn to tame these abilities through focused study." Celestia adds with an approved smile. "Huh?" Twilight asked even louder. "Twilight Sparkle, I'd like to make you my own personal protege here at the school." Celestia said as well. "Huh?" Twilight ask even louder. She can't believe what she herself is hearing. The princess of Equestria is asking her, a little filly, to become her personal protege? "Well?" The flabbergasted filly looks back at her parents, who nod and neigh enthusiastically, telling her to accept the offer. Then, she grinned widely before she jumped to at least four times her own height to hang in midair as she yelled excitedly, "YEEEESSSSS!!" "One more thing, Twilight," Celestia said as she points to her, interrupting her. "More," Twilight ask in alarm as she hits the title on her gut, knocking herself silly between the princess and her parents. Twilight notices Celestia pointing something on her flank, making the filly turn. To her surprise and excitement, it appears to be a star cutie mark. Could it be? "My cutie mark," Twilight exclaimed, and then, she started hopping around Celestia as she started cheering excitedly, "YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES..." Celestia giggles a bit, "You must be very excited." The princess turns to the parents, saying, "Do not worry, Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle. I will take good care of your daughter here at the school." "We appreciate you accepting Twilight." Twilight Velvet said with a grin. The mare turns to her daughter who calms down. "Twilight, come on. We must tell your brothers this." "And maybe a trip to the donut shop to celebrate." Night Light said as the two ponies leave with their daughter. Twilight has been accepted, it's a dream come true. "Later on, can I go meet Ben?" Twilight ask her parents hopefully. "I wanna tell him this as well as my answer!" "Of course you can go meet him, dear." Twilight Velvet replied with a smile. As the trio left, Celestia smiles upon hearing that. The Alicorn princess suspects that Twilight and Ben are becoming more than just friends. "Perhaps when Twilight begins living at my school/castle, I should reveal the truth at last." Celestia said to herself quietly. She knew that she herself can finally tell the truth about Ben's connection to her soon. As well as a secret that the princess been keeping to herself all these years at last. Ben was trotting on home when he almost collided with a blue filly unicorn. The annoyed filly snaps, "Hey, watch it!" "Sorry, I don't have time, miss! I gotta get home!" Ben, without looking to see whom he ran into, exclaims. As the colt heads off, he mumbles, "Man, she sounds a bit upset. I hope that I don't run into her again." "Ugh, that colt is a jerk." The filly unicorn known as Trixie Lulamoon groans to herself in annoyance. "Bad enough that my teacher has accepted that new purple filly as her new protégé! I hope that I don't see him again!" Ben grins as he heads on home. Twilight and him made plans to meet after the exam so that she will explain what happened...and to give him his answer. The colt cannot wait, especially with a gift that his mother helped him picked out especially for Twilight. "Excuse me, Ben? A word," A familiar voice spoke up. Ben turns and saw Boris and his goons approaching him. "Go away, Boris. You aren't going to hurt me or make fun of me today." Ben said to Boris with a frown. "Relax, my good friend. I know when to quit; Today's Twilight's exam, right?" Boris points out to Ben though the colt already saw what has happened. "Yeah and before you say anything, don't. Twilight and I will remain friends or more even when she gets into that school or not. And if Twilight does, I'm sure that she will have time to see me somehow." Ben snaps to Boris sternly. "Come on, the boss knows when to quit, right?" Dum-Dum remarks to Ben with a smirk, surprising the colt as a result. "Right, I decided that I will stop trying to fight you for Twilight now since it's obvious that you two are meant to be together." Boris said to Ben with a grin. The colt looks surprised but a bit suspicious. "And to show you no hard feelings, I will help you find a way to go to the same school with her." "What? But the school only accepts unicorns." Ben said doubtfully. "How can I be able to get in there?" "Oh, leave everything to me. Meet me here at nightfall. Come on, I know you want to be with Twilight for all of time, right?" Ben is puzzled but is now convinced. If Boris can make him be with Twilight all the time happen, then the colt will take that chance. Of course, Ben fails to see the evil grins on Boxco and Dum-Dum's face... Unknown to the four, someone else is listening in and that is a certain friend of Ben's. Flash spotted him talking with Boris, Boxco and Dum-Dum for the moment. What is Ben doing, talking with those three bullies? Once Ben leaves, Flash then overheard Boris's plans as Boris boasts, "That Ben...so gullible." "Yeah, it would be funny to trap him in that weird cage thing in Nexus's office." Boxco remarks with a chuckle. "And more funny when the Earth filthy gets frighten by it! And if by any chance he gets caught and in trouble...at least that will teach Ben to hang with my filly." Boris remarks sinisterly, making the hidden Flash gasps in shock. "But what about his Pegasus colt friend," Dum-Dum ask Boris, pointing out that Flash may hear about this, especially after the warning earlier. Boris chuckles while explaining, "Oh, I want Flash to suffer for his insolent meddling just like you do, Dum-Dum. But not in the way that you think that I want him to." "What do you mean, Boris?" Dum-Dum asks Boris, puzzled. What is his boss talking about? "I plan to make Sentry suffer...emotionally, as opposed to physically." Boris said with an evil chuckle of sorts. He is not only going to get back at Ben but at Flash as well for the Pegasus colt's meddling. "Meaning," Boxco ask puzzled. "I want Flash to live with guilt in his heart; Guilt that he failed to save his friend and guilt in the loss of his precious Sunset Shimmer." Boris remarks to his two stooges. "Granted, the latter already happened but the first one will make it 10 times worst!!" Flash gasped in fear and worry. That bully is going to set up his best friend! Flash quickly flew off to find Ben, finding him in the training room where the Earth colt wants to stop for some training. "Ben! Stop now!" Flash calls out to Ben, making him turn and see the Pegasi. "Flash; what's up?" Ben asks Flash curiously. "You're not seriously doing it, are you? You’re actually taking Boris's advice?" Flash ask Ben in concern. After everything that bully had done, his best friend is going to listen to him? "Yeah;’ Boris's telling the truth. He wants to help me." Ben said to Flash, not sure why his pal is upset or is aware of the bully's true motives. "Trust me, Ben. Whatever Boris's doing is not good! You can't go with him!" Flash insists to Ben in worry. "You worried me too much. Besides, I'm not a kid anymore." Ben remarks, getting upset by Flash's tone of voice. He doesn't need the Pegasus telling him what to do anymore. “Now, excuse me, cadet. I need to meet up with Boris.” Ben was about to leave, but Flash grabs him, exclaiming, "No! I can't let you do it!" "What?! What are you-?!" Ben stops in realization...or in this case, jumping to the wrong conclusion. He frowns angrily while saying, "Oh! I get it now!" "What," Flash ask Ben in alarm. He doesn't like the look on his face. "You'd never want to help me to be with Twilight. You just pretended, so that you can make fun of me!" Ben exclaims furiously to Flash. “You’re just like everypony else from my school!” "What the hay are you talking about?! I would never do such a thing! I'm trying to help you!" Flash insists to Ben in worry. His friend is misunderstanding the Pegasus colt's intentions here. "Help me?! More like imprisoned me! When I need some help from you to stop me going to the school, you just ask me to do it! Is that helping?! I call it betrayal! So far, Twilight is the only pony who helped me!" Ben exclaims, making Flash back away with a hurt look on his face. Flash groaned in anger, “Yes, I know! But Twilight wouldn’t want you to do this!” “How do you know this?! Twilight is not your fillyfriend!” Ben snaps angrily to Flash, getting the wrong idea. “She’s mine; Never yours!” “I didn’t say that!” Flash protest to Ben, trying to reason with his friend. “Oh yeah; Say that to someone who lost his filly friend because of the argument you both had!” Ben scowls furiously much to Flash’s annoyance. The colt just had to go there! “Ben! Don’t push me that! I’d never like how Sunset does something like that!” Flash insists. “I refuse to see that! She left me no choice!” “And you want me to do something like you did?! Never,” Ben exclaims to Flash in disgust. "Here's one rule that fits for me! Never trust someone who had never be there and experienced it before." Flash groaned, "Darn it! Will you listened?!" "I'm done and sick of being a loser! I'm sick of me being an Earth Pony! I'm sick of you treated me like a kid. But no more! I want to be with Twilight! No one is allowed to take her away from me! No one," Ben exclaims furiously. Flash can't believe what he's hearing. His best friend is casting him out? "So, I want you to get out! That's your Prince's order!" "But-" Flash begins to protest but Ben cuts him out angrily, not wanting to hear another word from him. "I'd say get out, Cadet Sentry!" Ben exclaims to Flash angrily. What happens next, changes thing forever between the two best friends and made the Earth pony regret it forever. Ben pushed Flash Sentry causing him to hit his back on the wall hard before falling to the ground. The Prince gasps in shock. He went and gone too far! Flash groaned in pain as he glared at his former friend, "FINE! Go on! Get the worst life you ever had! See if I care!" Flash stood from his injuries as he turned and walked away from Ben who in horror ask, “Flash; Where are you going?!” “Duty calls. Unlike you, I don’t do something stupid.” Flash snaps furiously to Ben. Hearing that hurts the latter’s feelings, making him upset. Ben frowns, snapping after his departing friend, “FINE! Go on! I don’t need you. I don’t even care of what life I had.” As Flash leaves, he looks back in sadness. Ben is no longer wanting to listen to him. The Pegasus colt thought that he was going places...but now, it will all be over. Flash sighed, "I'd always thought you'd be something special, champ; But now........ I don't know about you anymore, chump." With that, Flash closed the door hard. Ben sighed in disappointment and upset. His best friend is gone, leaving Ben to a fate that has already been decided... "You actually turned your back on him?" Twilight ask Ben in shock and disbelief to hear that. Ben has broken his friendship to Flash because of him listening to Boris's word over his? "Daddy, how could you?" Nyx asked, equally as shocked as her mother. "I know, I know...I was upset and not thinking straight." Ben said, looking down in guilt and sadness. "If only I had known what Boris was up to..." "Looks like you and Twilight's friends got a thing in common." Spike sighs, glancing at the Mane Five. "You turned your back on the one friend who was right." "Hey, so did you, Mr. 'Playing with Wedding Dolls'." Phobos reminds Spike with a scoff. "Don't remind us again." Pinkie said sadly, feeling bad like the others are right now. "Yes, that argument was the one thing that I regretted." Flash said with a sigh. "Then come Ben's transformation into that Demon Pony and Boris's word that one 'spirited him off'...." "No........ It can't be........" Flash gasps in horror. Hardstone has given him the bad news: Ben is gone. Some Demon Pony took him away last night. No one knew how it happened. "I'm sorry, son. It's the truth." Hardstone said to Flash in regret. Boris got scars on his face, that's enough for proof. "You're lying! I don't believe it! I don't believe it! I don't believe in that stupid unicorn! I would never!" The Pegasus colt cries out in horror and grief. Flash turned and galloped away from his father. "Flash," Hardstone calls after his son but sighs. He decided that Flash needs time to recover from this horror...and accept the fact that Ben is gone forever. A few meters away from Canterlot Palace, Flash arrived at the location where he and Ben had played together: Skateboard Park. Flash sighed as he approached the ramp and sat on it. Flash sighed before he sobbed in upset and angry, "DARN IT! How stupid was I?! How could I?! DARN IT!" Ben, as the Demon Pony, was done hearing the conversation from Hoboken Joe with Twilight and her siblings. But before the hero can leave Canterlot,, he heads to the place where he and Flash had fun: the skateboard park. The transformed one saw Flash's crying on the ramps. Ben looked down with regret and sad look as he sighs, "I'm....... really....... sorry, Flash." Ben turned back and is about to leave. He then heard some talking. "Ben! I know that you're alive! I don't believe that you're dead! I don't believe it! I know you're out there! One day; someday; when you come back to me, to your mother and to Twilight, I want to tell you something important. Something that I'd never had guts to admit to you since we became best friends!" The Pegasus colt cries out in pain. Ben was shocked to hear what Flash had said. The colt sobbed, "You admit that you're not strong, smart and brave as I am. But you're wrong! Because you're brave and smart when you need help from anypony to help you stand for what you believe in, not like I was! You're stronger than you think, Ben!" Ben was more surprised of hear it from Flash who continue to sobbed, "Trust me. I know about you more than you know yourself! To be honest, Ben, you're not only my best friend, but a brother to me. I'm really grateful to have you, Ben!" Ben was shocked as his eyes sobbed of what Flash had said. He mumbles, "As you are to me....... Flash, my brother," He then sobbed. "Thank you." Ben then turned and left, leaving Canterlot for who knows how long. Back in the present Pinkamena spoke, "Well Flash is almost done with his story and also I need to send a letter." The others are puzzled as she gets up and heads to a window with a knife and a letter that she made. The mare tied it on the knife and then closes her eyes, calming herself and focuses and then grips the knife tightly. She then opens her eyes and then spins , throwing the knife at high speed as the gang watched it go until it was out of sight. Golden Heart says, "Um sister, where is that letter going to at high speeds?" "Well I had to in order for it to make it to the Crystal Empire." Pinkamena explains. Tthe others are puzzled again by that but she says, "No worry. It's not a threat letter but a letter to somepony but I will not say till later." The others shrugs as she gets back to reading. "Ben's disappearance was a major impact on me and everyone else." Flash said seriously to the ones watching. "This of course goes for Twilight who hasn't made friends since." "Especially after what happened to Starlight," Spike said, making Twilight a bit down. "Oh, sorry." "It’s okay, Spike; I know you didn't mean it." Twilight sighs a bit. As she cheers up, so to speak, the mare asks, "So...is that it?" "Well, for now. I went into training but my sadness over Ben's disappearance seems to have affect my training." Flash said in concern as he goes back to the story. Soon we find Flash Sentry trying to train himself by his lonesome, but signs. It's only been 20 days since Ben vanished when he was spirited away by the Demon Pony. The poor best friend didn't know how to handle this. "Hey, need a training partner?" Spoke another voice for Flash to turn to see Shining Armor entering. "Who are you?" Flash asked in this being the first time that he saw Twilight's brother. "Name Shining Armor, I'm a young Royal Guard who's wanting to protect it's ruler from harm." Shining explained himself to the little colt. "Well, good luck with that. I know I screwed up." Flash mopes off to say while looking away to try training again. "What do you mean?" Shining asked in sensing that something was up. "I mean my friend was spirited away, I lost my best bud Ben." Flash explained himself while looking down. "Ben....you mean Ben Mare that Twiley talks about?" Shining asked off in remembering the name of the missing colt. "Yeah, that's him." Flash nods in looking surprised so this stallion was his best friend's filly friend's brother. "I see, so you were his best friend?" Shining smiled in seeing that Flash was Ben's friend; he figured the Earth colt had another friend besides his sister & Hoboken Joe. "Yeah I am...or maybe I was...until we let a fight ruin our friendship." Flash looked away in feeling a bit blue. "Listen Flash, you shouldn't let a slip up get you down. You believe Ben will come back, right?" Shining came near Flash to give him some talk to encourage him. "Well, he was spirited away." Flash spoke off in thinking about the issue. "Well I heard words from a very wise hobo that you should not let something keep you down and keep moving forward, or else, it'll eat away at your life and make your friend sad." Shining explained in his own words, the words that Hoboken Joe helped shine light over the dark. "Heh, a wise hobo told you that?" Flash chuckled off in hearing such words and from someone that he may have a clue who. "Yeah, a friend of Twiley's & Ben, Hobo Joe; You know, it's thanks to him that my sister isn't gonna let Ben's disappearance ruin her." Shining explained the manner of how it's thanks to such words, his sister won't let this matter ruin her life, so it should work for Flash too. "Hugh, you know....I heard we just hired him around the castle." Flash raised an eyebrow in recalling that they have Hobo Joe in their castle, he was invited to work there from Ben's kindness in making his dream come true. "Maybe we can see him, you both seem to hold much belief that Ben isn't gone. Be it the wise of the old or the young at heart, you both have beliefs." Shining suggest they see Hobo Joe, seeing that an old hobo stallion & a young eager colt knew that they should not fill their hearts with doubt and believe that Ben Mare is not gone & he will return. Flash was thinking for a moment before he crack a smile. "Thanks Shining, and you know what, I think you'll make a great Royal Guard. Maybe you'll make captain." Flash smiled off in giving thanks while saying something of the guy's future in the Royal Guard. "Hehn, I'll be lucky if I land such a job. Your dad will have me working real hard if he wants to get me up there." Shining Armor rolled his eyes to laugh off the idea that he'll be captain of the guard...if Flash's father doesn't kill him from the training. Both ponies let loose a laugh at each other, and thus began their own friendship in their work. "Well, thanks to Shining, I recovered and do my best to move on." Flash said with a grin, Ben smiles to hear that his best friend has indeed recovered from his disappearance. "Of course, I still miss Ben, wondering where he was but my pal would've wants me to move on." "Obviously," Ben said with a smirk. "I manage to become a great and well known Royal Guard, especially when my dad retired a few years later. I deal with a few crises here and there, especially when it comes to some missions. Then, one day, something changed my life for the better...a Demon Pony, the one I thought that took Ben, appeared in Canterlot, causing trouble. Of course, I couldn't assist due to some training I was doing." "And Ben shows up, right?" Pinkie asks with a smile. Flash smiles back before nodding, "Thought so!" At this moment, Flash Sentry was busy training himself extra hard, as he's now a grown up stallion, wearing armor like the real Royal Guard. At this time, he is busy training to make himself strong. He's been told that if he does well on the next few task of being a Royal Guard, he may be given a promotion to work with Princess Candace. Flash was assigned to help some Royal Guards handle a loose Hydra that was almost about to leave Froggy Bottom Bog because it saw a pony steal something from it which was rare herbs for medicine and it really had an issue of not letting go such an act, and all Royal Guards including Flash had to deal with that before returning home after other events happened during the anniversary of Ben Mare's disappearance. Just as he was working out, somepony came opening the big doors. "Sorry, I'm a bit busy right now, can you guys come back later? I promise to leave this room after a few more workouts." Flash Sentry spoke off in telling whoever was here, like the guards, that he's using the area. "Really Flash, you're still training this hard? And here I thought you wanted to talk about old times." Spoke a strange male voice in making a sly sarcastic claim, but the tone & statement sounded familiar. Suddenly, Flash Sentry stops his training with wide eyes, that voice pattern sounded too much like; but it couldn't be, could it? He turns around to see a pony that Flash thought he was imagining, brown stallion who's appearance reminded the guy of Ben Mare came in, the features were so perfect, it's like the colt that was spirited away by the Demon Pony has return. "Ben.....Ben Mare? Is that really you, and not some illusion by one of the guards to fool me?" Flash Sentry asked in dropping his weapon in gasping in shock; was that truly his long lost friend? "Now why would I go and lie to you about a thing like that?" Ben smiled off in saying some words that would trigger something here. Those very words sent Flash Sentry to gasp in surprise; no other pony knows how to say those words of his perfectly except for the colt Ben Mare. The sound of that voice was not lying, he could tell, the eyes were real, were not false illusion tricks, which meant for an absolute reason: this was the real lost pony that has return. "Oh man! It is you! That pattern could never be spoken out by any guard except by the real true deal. I can't believe it! You came back! But how," Flash came up to hug Ben in a big grip before letting him go in asking so many questions of where his friend has been all this time. "It's....a long, very complicating story. And if you're too busy, then...." Ben was saying it's a long story and Flash seem busy, maybe he tells later, but.... "Ben, I can put aside my entire guard duty for this one day off just to finally hang with my best friend now return!" Flash exclaimed he have all the time in the world with a day from not seeing a friend he believed he lost over the years. "Alright, let’s talk like old times." Ben nods with a smile as they began to have their chat like old times. "Ben! I knew that you're alive! I knew it! I knew that you're not dead. I'd never lose faith in you." Flash laughs excitedly that his friend is alive after all these years. Flash and Ben hugged, the latter ask, "You sure?" Flash smile as he repeats the same words that the Pegasus told Ben a few times before, "Now why would I lied to you when we're good friends?" Soon the two friends were having their chat. Flash heard that in truth, Ben was the Demon Pony, how he's been on the run, how he returned back, then was hunted by Royal Guards with Twilight's Mane Six group, then the actions with Boris the so-called 'Hero of Canterlot' joining. Flash pointed off that after so many years of gaining popularity and making a new image after Ben claw the guy, all those that knew Boris's 'true' jerk nature weren't fooled when he became a famous hunter in Canterlot and his fame was done in fooling the citizens. But the most incredible part was when Boris knew about turning Ben into the Demon Pony, how he got a Forbidden Spell that swapped talents of other ponies that created the Red Devil's Sun that turn their worst bully into a powerful villain who would be on pair or even stronger than the Royal Sisters. All seem lost, but from Ben's determination, with the aid of Nyx, who somehow regain her Nightmare Moon power, managed to beat Boris, only to be caught off guard in being shot with an item to kill Ben. During a last ditch effort, Ben kicked Boris's face up while Nyx as Nightmare Moon fired a powerful Unicorn Burst that broke the foe's horn & destroyed the Red Devil's Sun, as a drawback was that the summoner would be pulled into the Void, where Boris is now trapped in. And when Ben seem to have timed, the necklace he gave Twilight: Necklace Of Eternal, granted a hopeful magical light that revived Ben & revert Nyx to her filly form, and then a greater miracle occurred that the raining light gave back their wings & horns that were taken from them. And thus, what was a story of mystery came to a happy ending, and Flash Sentry absorb all that in amazement that it all happened and he was not there to witness it. "So that's what happened? Boris lied to everypony about your disappearance? I knew the guy was lying, but he had too good an alibi." Flash Sentry was looking mad in about ready to explode at a given minute. "And to hear Boris did all that to unicorns & Pegasus of robbing their horns & wings to become some powerful Red Devil Pony, gotta say, I'm even more surprised you fought up against him as a real monster no pony else could beat when you were too scared to face him as a normal colt." Flash was angry, but surprise that when all seem lost that none could beat Boris when he gain the powers of being a Red Devil, that it was Ben that went to face such a dangerous foe. "I had to face him, he gone too far & was driven to a mad point. Plus, I couldn't let him take Twilight away or hurt anypony else." Ben replied off that he had to do it, cause if not, those he cared for would have been lost, and that would have made him more lonely. "Still, what shocked me the most was hearing how you got shot in the back and died right there." Flash Sentry issued off in also not believing what happened to his pal, being killed right there in battle. "Even if Boris was sealed in the Void, I hunt him down even to the ends of Tartarus, just to make that power-hungry jerk pay." He felt so mad that the Pegasus stood up to fly and was zooming around doing combat moves in what he do to chase Boris even to the ends of Equestria. "You really go that far for me?" Ben asked stun that Flash would go to such a distance, all for him. "Dude, I thought you were dead once already, if I learn you were the Demon Pony & killed again, of course I do something that stupid. That's what best friends are for." Flash exclaimed that he go that far for a friend, cause friends don't desert friends. "Still, glad to see you are alive, and back to your normal self. And something else on you, your Cutie Mark. May not know what it is, but I'm sure it means something special about you I always knew." Flash smiled in being happy that in the end, Ben was saved, cured of his curse, and received a Cutie Mark unlike any other that holds some special means. "Thanks Flash, that means a lot." Ben smiles to nod in seeing & hearing how much Flash cares for him. "Ben...... Listen, I'm sorry for what I had said; I -!" "Listen, Flash; I'm the one who should say sorry for not listening to you. If I had, I would have Twilight with me together." Flash smiles, speaking, "I guess we both regret the things we do." Ben sighed, "Yeah. You're still mad at me?" Flash smiled, shaking his head while answering, "Never. I'm just glad you're safe and home to us." "Yes, we are, brother." The Earth colt said. Both Flash and Ben hugged while sobbed in joy and happiness. Once they let go, Celestia's son continues, "Listen, I'm gonna be preparing to pack my things and live with Twilight in Ponyville. It's where she belongs, and so do I." Ben stated that he'll need to get ready, cause he'll be going with Twilight & her group back to Ponyville, now that the whole Demon Pony event is resolved. "I understand, and don't worry, we'll see each other again, that's a promise." Flash smiles in saying he's cool with what Ben's doing, cause no matter where they are, they'll be best friends; always. Soon the two buds decided to walk out of the room, wanting to chat while Ben had to prepare. Cause now Flash would help his best friend pack while explaining how Flash has had his own little adventures while always believing Ben would return. And thus the two were very much happy that they came back together again....may have taken a few years, but worth the wait when friends don't give up on friends when they need to believe. "And thus, things has come to a circle." Blazefist said with a smile. Flash has finally finished his story of his reunion with Ben. "Yeah; Granted, I wish I would've hang out with Ben more but I was busy with my duties and all that. But I did pop in to speak with him now and again. I didn't meet Twilight officially until that time in the Crystal Empire." Flash remarks, then chuckles a bit. "Or so I've thought." "Wow, dang, that's story is awesome." Scootaloo remarks in amazement. "Yeah, I give it four squees!" Sweetie exclaims, squeeing four time, "And one more for the hay of it," She squees again. "Yeah, amazing," Iris Heart Shield said, impressed. "Who knew that story got so drama in it?" Ace Swift ask impressed. "Yeah, it's okay." Midnight Moonlight remarks with a shrug, making some of the ponies look at him. "What? It is." "You know, I wonder what would happen if the Mystic Ponies got involved back then." Laxtinct remarks with a light chuckle. "Something cool I bet ." "Now now, Laxtinct, you know we can't flank in because of the rules back then." Aquastroke gently scolds Laxtinct, making him frown especially when it involves him being treated like a colt in front of everyone, "Silly colt." "Don't do that." The others laugh in amusement, especially Ben and Flash. How funny to see that happened! The scene opens to the training hall in Canterlot where those in the Royal Guard train to protect their rulers, be it Celestia, Luna, Cadance, Twilight or even Ben Mare. And speaking of which, we find two old buddies entering the training grounds where it was like an open courtyard filled with training & obstacle courses. Tall pillars and walls, you name it, the test of speed, endurance, skill, you name it, the Types only unicorns & Pegasus ponies go under to be in tip-top shape. The gang, after the story telling, decided to come here to visit. “Ah, this place holds memories.” Flash Sentry smiles in seeing some old familiar scenery rom long ago. “Really, I thought you told me these things were so exhausting, you were lucky to survive them.” Ben smiled off to make a comment in recalling how this training was hard on his buddy. “Cut me some slack, I was a young colt going at the big leagues.” Flash Sentry issued off in feeling like he deserves a break, not every pony can handle basic training to be a Royal Guard, especially at a young colt’s age. “Right, like you needed a break, from getting a break of this training.” Ben rolled his eyes in stating what Flash was trying to say in a rhetorical manner of speaking. Soon both stallions were laughing it off as a funny joke that neither felt angry or upset, it was just their buddy way of talking. Soon the laughter dies down a bit for them to catch their breaths over the area with their own train of thoughts. “Hey Ben, how about we train together like old times?” Flash Sentry spoke off with a bright idea that he just came up with. “Really; you sure you wanna go hoof-to-hoof with me?” Ben asked with a raised eyebrow of such an idea. “I know you got more skill after your unlocking the Triforce within you to the Master Sword awakening. Even know that you trained with Chase.” Flash Sentry stated in knowing all the things Ben’s gone through in what he’s achieved since the days they were colts to his best bud’s return from being the exile Demon Pony with so many crazy adventures afterwards. “Come on pal, when was there a time we did some workout, just the two of us?” He asked off that it’s been a long time; it’s time Ben & Flash have a little friendly competition to test each other. “I admit, I miss that Flash, but Chase has been helpful.” Ben shrugs off to say in missing such days, but he’s getting some good teachings from another stallion. “Despite my sense of warning you of something fishy about him,” Flash Sentry rolled his eyes to remind Ben that there is something about Chase that doesn’t sit well with the Royal Guard and he might be close to being right unless he gets hard evidence for facts. “Yeah, I get that you kinda don’t trust him.” Ben rubbed the back of his neck in seeing Flash feels that Chase is hiding something, only a few warriors the stallion knows say that Chase the Warrior isn’t what he seems to be; but what it is hasn’t arisen yet. “Still, why don’t we see whose better to help train you?” Flash Sentry smiles to change the sorrow subject into a more interesting part. “How about if I win , we’re training buddies, you win …eh, you can train whoever you want to. How’s it sound?” He spoke this off as a matter of what happens in who gets to win and calls the shots from here. Ben was in thought of what Flash was requesting of him, sure Flash is an the Royal Guard, and he’s been on a good terms of fighting to be like Private Kenny; which that guy was lucky to survive against death-defying odds. Both Royal Guard members were good to be about as close to terms of fighting pair with Shining Armor who was Captain before he became the married ruler of Princess Cadance of the Crystal Empire. Ben knows he has mastered some bits of his Triforce magic & awakens some items & weapons, but he’s far from being perfect. After much time to think, Ben looked to Flash’s eyes in coming to terms with himself. “Well, I suppose cutting loose isn’t a complete bad idea, just as long as we try to not go overboard.” Ben shrugs off his shoulders in feeling game to join in now. “Deal, now let’s take our positions.” Flash Sentry spoke to where the two BFFs shake the wager with their hooves to seal the deal. Soon the two stallions turnabout face to march across a few good pastes away from the other. And they soon were a good distance meter away before turning to look at each other like respected opponents. “Ready?” Flash called out in wanting to make sure Ben was ready for this. “Ready!” Ben replied back in being ready when Flash Sentry is here. Both fighters were standing by, Flash Sentry brought out a beam sword saber as Ben summoned his Master Sword. Two friends were keeping their sharp gaze on who be the first to make a move here. A single leaf fell and made contact with a birdbath and that single disturbance set things into motion. “HRUUUAARRGHHHH,” Both Ben & Flash made loud battle cries as they were now charging at the other with the attitude of no-holds bar here. At the moment, the scene shows Twilight’s group walking down a hall in discussing things about what they have learned about Ben & Flash’s past history together. It certainly is funny how there are always two or three different sides of a story told about another pony’s life. Twilight knew that from when both her brother Shining Armor & Cadance told about their lives & how they came to be together. The story about Ben have only been told from Twilight’s view, Ben’s view, even Flash’s view on where and what event took place. "Gotta say, the story of friendship is 100% awesome," Rainbow exclaims with a smile. "Who knew those two got one intense foal hood together?" "Oh yes, I agree." Fluttershy said in agreement while smiling, "Twilight?" "I was concerned about Sunset Shimmer. I mean, if only Flash had told me about her even after my memory loss...you think I would've helped her?" Twilight ask her friends in concern. "Shoot, Sunset chose 'dat path herself." Applejack commented. Then she thinks better, "Actually, it was 'de Superior who did 'de driving but still..." “Clash-Clash,” Then noise of sword clashing is heard that broke the group having a conversation to realize something else was going on. “Goodness! What is that?” Rarity yelps to gasp in hearing what sounds like the clashing of blades. “Sounds like sword fighting’ ta me,” Applejack spoke with a serious face in recognizing the sound of some pony fighting another. “It’s coming from the training ground for the Royal Guards.” Twilight points off to her friends in locating where the source came from, having known her way around Canterlot. Later, the Mane Six group arrive near a balcony to look out and below in what they could witness. Flash Sentry was seen using his skills as a Pegasus in being as quick & agile as Rainbow Dash in flying by the use of his wings, but his strength by his muscles & training as a Royal Guard with use of weapons in combat made him be almost an equal opponent. Ben is seen wielding his Master Sword & Hylian Shield to attack & defend, but it looks like Flash Sentry has been doing lots of training to be about as good as any skill fighter from those that have fought hard against their enemies. “Oh dear, why are Ben & Flash fighting?” Fluttershy yelps with worry, why are two best friends who shared a past together now suddenly going at it almost like they are enemies? “Wait, could it be…..THEY’RE FIGHTING FOR THE LOVE OF TWILIGHT!” Pinkie Pie slowly and then loudly announced a sudden truth to the matter of why in Equestria two best friends are fighting; is it over a mare? “Hugh?” The others responded with the upmost puzzled, lost, and confused expressions on their faces. Was the pink pony here even serious about that claim before it took two seconds to rethink what Pinkie just theorized. “No wait, never mind. It’s some random thought about two different ponies from different realities of where some think either one should be Twilight’s lover.” Pinkie Pie spoke off in terms of Breaking the Fourth Wall of what she just even said while ever being a mystery to the gang. “Again Pinkie Pie, you’re so random.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes in seeing her pink friend was being a little random, especially now. “But they sure are going at it.” Spike stated from looking down to seeing how much Ben & Flash are duking it out. “Yeah, looky at Flashy-boy; He’s doing as well as Ben does when he fights!” Phobos points off in how well one stallion is doing against Ben who is supposed to be even tougher. “Hey mommy, do you think maybe they’re doing some friendly training workout cause they’re old friends?” Nyx looked to her mother in asking a thought of why Ben & Flash are trying to fight so hard. “Seeing that’s about the only thing that doesn’t sound as crazy as Pinkie Pie’s idea….I say; yes.” Twilight slowly stated from thinking that was the lonely logic that was not as crazy as Pinkie’s claim of them boys fighting over her; that’s just silly. And now back to the two stallions that are dueling, Ben was just throwing his Gale Boomerang that created mini-tornados. But Flash was able to zip across the attack to land a strike, which Ben used his Hylian Shield. But the charge tackle did let Flash skid Ben across the field while it was surprising that Ben didn’t drop his guard. Ben switched tackles to try to use his Clawshots, they were a good plan, but they can’t catch what moves quickly & goes too far away which Flash was capable of doing. Flash then used some guard move of flapping his wings near some sand dunes to create a dust cloud that blocked the vision of his pal before diving in for another tackle; Only for Flash to immediately abandon that plan when Ben almost squashed him from swinging his Megaton Hammer with his Golden Gauntlets to help the stallion left the heavy hammer. Ben recalled his hammer to wield his sword and shield as Flash flapped nearby, both were about even. “Gotta say Ben, I’m amazed I’m able to keep up with you.” Flash Sentry smiles in never guessing he could now be able to compete with his strong pal who wields the Triforce Element. “So am I. Man, you must have put in some extra training to make me bring out some of my weaponry.” Ben smiled off in seeing Flash is getting him worked up to bring out more weapons & items that he can call upon. “You’re getting stronger every day and I don’t wanna miss out on the action. After all, I vowed to help you out, and what sorta Royal Guard can’t even protect a royal member of the family or even his best pal if that pony is stronger than me?” Flash Sentry explained himself that he wants to help protect Ben from any threat, and what sorta guard can’t protect his future king if that guy is stronger. “Well then you best keep up, otherwise, you won’t know if you don’t try.” Ben smiled off to say while seemingly getting himself ready for another round of their training workout. Soon the training duel continues, and boy is it looking like either side could hold the advantage. Flash Sentry seems to show some good swordsmanship combined with his own muscle strength & gift of flying; But Ben was not out of tricks yet as he was far from being counted out…especially at this moment. “Frsuvhmmm….” Suddenly, Ben’s Triforce Mark on his flank glows much to his unknown moment, but felt this sudden trigger moment meant one thing; an awakening of something for him to unlock. “Wrsuvfruvhmm…” And then something appeared at the bottom of the stallion’s feat in a glow of light before it faded and everyone saw what Ben was either wielding or wearer. They appear to be simple brown leather boots , acting as foot or hoof protectors for the wear. “Hugh, that’s new, and yet….ordinary.” Flash responded a bit surprised on both accounts in not expecting a new trick from Ben, though the look seem…plain. “What are those Ben?” He asked his pal if he knew what it was the stallion was wearing. “I think the Triforce of Wisdom is clueing me in.” Ben responded to use his connection to his Triforce Element and learn about the things from Wisdom about these boots that he’s wearing. “These are called Kokiri Boots, it seems they were the main footwear for the Hero of Time, but now I guess they’re split into four instead of two for me.” Ben explained that these boots were personal belongings to Link long ago, it’s nice and all, but was this truly all Ben awaken to use. “So, anything else or are they plain boots for hoof wear?” Flash asked in pondering if those boots are even special or not. “How about you try to charge tackle me, and I’ll show you a surprise.” Ben smiled off in stating that the two can find out if these boots got any worth to them. Flash seemed a bit hesitant that he knows never to judge a boot by its cover, but he won’t know the extent of Ben’s newly unlocked item unless he takes a chance; which he did in charging at the stallion. Then without warning, Ben’s boots seem to glow by magic before they suddenly vanished in now replacing the boots with something new or different about them. They were iron clad silver, tan-yellow bronze style boots. “Bashfruvhmm….” Soon as Flash clash his beam sword on Ben’s Hylian Shield, instead of him pushing his opponent back, Ben was actually standing his ground. And then the stallion used his strength to knock Flash backwards, catching everyone by surprise. “How’d you do that? Last time, I was able to push you back.” Flash questioned in remembering how he pushed Ben who used his shield, but this time, it was different. “These boots are more special because they can gain properties of other special boots the Hero of Time worn. Like these Iron Boots.” Ben smiles in explaining the concept of these boots he wore and what the new ones that he brought out are. “They can make me be very heavy, so even forces of wind current blows or enemy tackles won’t knock me down. Heck, I can almost jump to flatten or deliver the hurt to the enemies and even walk along walls and ceilings using magnetic forces.” “Seems pretty nice, but judging from those boots , don’t seem very much like intuitive item seem to impede movement on land.” Flash Sentry noticed that the heavy iron maybe good, but without enough training, they’ll only be slow weights. “Then you best stand clear!” Ben issued this off as far warning, cause he’s about to come at his best pal. Now Ben was soon rushing off while wearing his Iron Boots as they made heavy stomping sounds for each step. Flash quickly forged a plan and then zip across with his wings to lead Ben near a running board. Flash flew up that he reached the top of a high pillar and looked down to see how Ben could reach him. But as the Earth pony was just about to rush up the walkway, the boots glowed again before changing in the bright light to appear differently again. They look like brown leather boots which actually have been fitted with gold work & features small, decorative wings on the heels, similar to the sandals of Hermes, the Greek messenger god. And when Ben rushed up the ramp, he was seen running across glowing steps that his boots touched and this left everyone stun speechless while approaching Flash’s spot. “Woah,” Flash had to quickly get out of the way before Ben even managed to land a hit as the Royal Guard flew a bit higher, “What the? I knew you could fly, but I didn’t see you active your magic. How’d you pull that off?” He knows Ben uses his Triforce Magic that made him levitate off the ground, but there was no signs of that; was it perhaps the work of Ben’s other new boots ? “With these things, they’re called: Hover Boots .” Ben introduces his next new boots that gave him a surprising ability much like his own flying by magic, but different. “These things allow me to hover across gaps, letting me walk on thin air and hover over water. Thereby letting me cross otherwise impassible pitfalls. They help reduce my weight, which they’ll prevent me from sinking into quick sands, weight-sensitive platforms and, in rare cases, allow me to foil certain pressure-sensitive traps.” Ben explained his boots in how they work for him, and boy do they sound like Ben’s second pair of wings while being wingless. Soon Ben was trying to run after Flash, course what could be seen was that they deny friction & provide little traction, making running quite a task. So Flash saw a way he could stop Ben who ran across the air by using his wings to blow lots of wind that was easily blowing Ben back a bit. “Gotta say that surprised me, but I think that surprise was only a moment,” Flash Sentry smiled off in seeing that while Ben had the edge, he’s figure out that stunt. “Yeah, and I think these Hover Boots sorta were connected to me hovering off the ground, just differently I guess.” Ben stated in feeling that when he first felt like hovering off the ground, the Hover Boots must have kicked in secretly for the stallion. “But you better watch out cause here’s my next trick.” He then reached over to pull something out, and it was… “This feather,” He shows a blue feather for his best friend to see it. “And whose feather is that?” Flash Sentry asked off in not knowing whose feather that belongs to. “Rainbow’s feather; when we left after telling our story, it fell off and I picked it up,” Ben stated in explaining how he came across Rainbow Dash’s feather. “At first, it may seem like nothing, but when I used Wisdom to see about these special boots , I discovered a third pair which this feather can help me out.” He smiles in realizing something else these boots can do and it will also take the feather of his fast flier friend to do it. Soon Ben placed the feather in the feather heel part of the boots , and they suddenly glowed brightly from another new magic that awakened. Then in the next moment, Ben was seen dashing at high speeds, and soon tackled Flash who was caught unprepared and they even broke through some wooden boards. When Flash was getting his bearings, he saw what Ben’s new boots were. They look like brown leather boots which actually have been fitted with silver work & features small, along the decorative wings on the heels, they are similar to the sandals of Hermes, the Greek messaged god. They almost looked like the Hover Boots, but different. “Meet the Pegasus Boots . They’ll give me incredible speed to dash, even perform Dash Attacks, like you just witnessed. They’re like my Triforce Charge technique, but now I just boosted its effects.” Ben explained what his next latest boots can do, and boy do they provide him with fast movements. With these boots, he’ll dash at high speeds, the increased speed will allow him to bash into various objects, and greater speed to jump distances. “Hugh…hugh….gotta hand it to you Ben. I didn’t see that coming.” Flash was seen panting from almost being tired out; Ben’s really giving him a workout here. “Hugh, but I know one way that you can’t get me with any of those boots . High in the skies and at a far distance,” He smiled in figuring out one last trick he can pull off and not get caught. Soon Flash Sentry took to the skies to keep zooming around to never stay low while Ben knew that he had a problem. Ben summoned his Hero’s Bow to take aim, but he could not get a clear enough shot, especially from his eyesight not being so good. “Man, even with the Hero’s Bow, I can’t knock him out. If only I…” Ben was in the middle of debating his mind when an idea came to him. “Wait, maybe if I focus hard enough, ‘it’ could appear, the item Chase said could help me in this field. That which could act like a scope & help with my aim,” Ben remembered what Chase the Warrior told him, there is an item to help him out, and it was….one he has yet to summon. “Concentrate….” He mutters to himself to focus solely in calling forth the object in himself. “Prrusvhmmmm…./Frsuvhmmm….” Suddenly, the Triforce Mark glows and then magically appearing in Ben’s hold was something new. An object shaped like the face of a hawk mask of bronze, silver & gold color designs. Ben could only smile in realizing what he has now; That which acts like a pair of binoculars when used by itself, but when conjured with his Hero’s Bow, the object acts as a scope, turning the Bow into a potent & long-ranged sniping weapon. “Yes! The Hawkeye Mask! Now to see how this thing can do for me.” Ben proclaimed in now having that which can help him out with his distance of targeting enemies or foes far away. Now Ben combined his bow & the Hawkeye to which it’s effective at targeting & dispatching enemies will prove extra useful. As Ben aimed his bow, he saw where Flash stopped and fired an Ice Arrow that gave his bud the chills to suddenly begin to drop. Fortunately, Flash was warmed up before he touched the ground, but soon saw Ben aim his bow to Flash’s position, almost ending their training duel. “Okay, okay, I give, I give. You win.” Flash Sentry held up his hooves in saying he gives up, which Ben lowered his weapon. “Hugh, gotta admit when I’m beat and I was really trying hard there Ben.” He smiled off in seeing that Ben beat him, and the Pegasus was close. “I know Flash, you gave it your best shot, and that’s all I can ask. And you know, it’s from you that helped me unlock these four new items.” Ben smiles to say Flash did a good job on his own and even quoted something of importance. “Really, why do you say that?” Flash asked off lost in what he do that helped Ben unlock his new items. “Cause like the Kokiri Boots , I was seen ordinary, nothing special. But you were the one to make me begin to stand strong, like the Iron Boots. Lift up my spirit like the Hover Boots. And had me go after my dreams, like the Dash Boots,” Ben spoke in explaining a certain basic term about how his boots were something of his old self before earning new things to be a part of him. “Heck, the Hawkeye Mask may even help me look to the distance to never lose sight of things I care for. So even thought this was just to train, I wanna say thanks; you’re a good friend to have helped me out.” He held out his hoof in wanting Flash to shake it from knowing that without his best friend, Ben’s life would not have grown to be better than his old sly self. “You mean it Ben?” Flash Sentry asked with hope in hearing this right, was Ben for real? “Now why would I go and lie to you about that? Besides, be it with you or with Chase, if I’m ever in trouble, I can count on your help.” Ben rolled his eyes to issue that no matter who he’s training with, him & Flash will always be BFFs since they were little colts, that will never change; and if the prince needs help, then one brave Royal Guard can be there to help a friend out. Soon both stallions were laughing it up in seeing this helps settle a happy moment. The Mane Six watched with smiles in seeing two things that happened: Ben unlocked four new items from his Triforce, and that Ben & Flash’s friendship is seen to be very strong, nothing could destroy such a close connection the two stallions hold. "Well, looks like Ben got more stronger than the moment." Rarity said happily. "Yeah, let's go congratulate, daddy." Nyx giggles as she gallops over to Ben and Flash, "Daddy! Uncle Flash!" "Oh, Nyx. Girls," Ben said, spotting the Mane Six, Spike and Phobos approaching. "Didn't see you come in." "So you two weren't fighting over Twilight! So happy," Pinkie giggles, making Ben and Flash a bit confused. "Best not to ask," Rainbow remarked, laughing a bit, "Can't believe you got my feather." "Hey, I could use it to jump," Ben remarks, laughing a bit. "Oh wait, that's a Roc." "Rocks are too heavy to jump!" Pinkie exclaims, making the others roll their eyes. "Not 'rock', 'Roc'." But unknown to the others, Chase was seen hidden the in the shadows from watching that battle of Ben Mare & Flash Sentry. Chase counted the awakening of the Hawkeye Mask since it was clear the stallion would come to claim it soon from the hard training. But what Chase found surprising was that Ben had the Iron & Hover Boots , all rolled into the Kokiri Boots, and that the discovery of the Pegasus Boots that gave more speed was awaken from one fast flying Pegasus (even when once being Dragon Hope, he didn’t know of this). “He’s getting closer to being stronger. There aren’t many of the other hidden items & weapons left; he’ll eventually be near to unlock the Lens of Truth.” Chase silently spoke to himself in paying close attention to what he just witnessed Ben being able to do now; he’s getting closer to which he’ll unlock the item to expose the illusion to show Shadow Dragon under the alias of Chase. “I’ll have to keep a closer eye on him, Ben even acquired something that I never knew much about. He may almost surpass me….unless we get him first.” He spoke to hold his chin in knowing that the Dark Mystics will need to get Ben on their side or the stallion may prove to be more powerful than given credit for. “Let’s see how far your friendship can get you, Ben Mare.” He silently spoke in seeing Ben & Flash speaking to Twilight’s group from being amazed by what was seen. Soon Chase vanished in the shadows after getting what he came to see. Course during the moment, Private Kenny was in the area when he saw what looked like some pony hiding in the shadows, only to vanish afterwards. “Hugh? What was that?” Private Kenny pondered from never seeing that, but still, he felt suspicious that he should report any suspicious activities. “Well it’s gone, but best I tell Princess Celestia & Princess Luna of some stranger that was watching Prince Ben & Flash Sentry.” With that in mind, Private Kenny then makes his way to the Royal Chambers of the Royal Sisters. If this was one of the enemies targeting Equestria, etc., then any detail must be accounted for, even if he doesn’t know who or WHAT he saw, Private Kenny has his duty to perform. Private Kenny kept on running as fast as he can. Before he could do anything, Private Kenny received bites on his head. The Royal Guard swoop it off. Kenny felt his head swirling and dizzy. Confused, he ask, "What the...... What happen....... What am I supposed to do again?" From distance and away from Canterlot's Royal Guard Training, Deadblast smirked as he looked at Crimson Skull who doesn't look amused. Deadblast scoffed, "At least that takes care of it. Thanks to our A Day Memory Erased Potion." "Too close. Otherwise, our plans could have gotten out of hooves." Crimson Skull said with a frown. The last thing he wants is for some interloper to ruin everything! "That'll be one of Dark Curse's plans." Crimson Skull smiled, chuckling, "Indeed . When the time comes, when the Superior and Dark Curse gave the word, we may begin the Operation Serum Creations." Deadblast remarks in amusement, "I'm surprised that Grimmore didn't realize that everything Dark Curse did to him was to annoy him and make him think that we tried to kill him when we actually perform something special power for the Superior since his papa visit the boss of ours." Crimson Skull slapped Deadblast's head, scowling, "Silence! That would ruin the surprise." "Ouch. Okay, got it, boss." "Let us leave. Await till the right moment to strike." Both Crimson Skull and Deadblast disappeared in darkness as they walked back towards to the forests' shadows. The Dark Mystic Ponies and their allies will continue hiding...for now. The End for now Cast list Vincent Tong: Flash Sentry, Prince Blueblood Jason Marsden: Ben Mare/Demon Pony, Chase the Warrior/Shadow Dragon Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle Nicole Oliver: Princess Celestia Mark Wahlberg: Lieutenant Hardstone Rebecca Shoichet: Sunset Shimmer Ashleigh Ball: Rainbow Dash, Applejack Andrea Libman: Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Pinkamena Diane Pie Tabitha St. Germain: Rarity Cathy Weseluck: Spike the Dragon Daveigh Chase: Nyx Chris Sanders: Phobos the Dragon Michelle Creber: Apple Bloom Claire Corlett: Sweetie Belle Madeline Peters: Scootaloo Andrew Francis: Shining Armor, Blaze Leo Britt McKillip: Princess Cadance Crispin Freeman: Boris James Arnold Taylor: Boxco Richard Steven Horvitz: Dum-Dum David Faustino: Blazefist P.J. Byrne: Laxtinct Janet Verney: Aquastroke (Aqua) Douglas Rye: Azure Phoenix Roger Craig Smith: Bladestrike Malcolm McDowell: MechaStahl Sean Pertwee: Houndkiller Chris Fairbank: Metric Greg Ellis: Valmort Latham Gaines: Dark Curse Tim Curry: The Superior With special voice appearances by Orlando Bloom: Golden Heart Peter Capaldi: Michael Trotter Emma Watson: Flare Tiger Dionne Quan: Iris Heart Shield Sean Schemmel: Ace Swift Scott McNeil: Midnight Moonlight Matthew Broderick: Comet Star Sam Riegal: Hoboken 'Hobo' Joe Peter New: Juniper Berry Kathleen Barr: Trixie Lulamoon Chris Cox: Deadblast Liam O'Brien: The Crimson Skull Frank Welker: Private Kenny Author's Note Wow, very awesome. What do you folks think? I'm glad to finally get this done. All right, time to return to the timeline with the next MLP: FIM fic... "Granny Smith's Walk: MLP FIM version of the So Weird episode Widow Walks: Granny Smith who waited fifty years to see her boyfriend wishes she were young horse in her early 20's again… and ends up switching ages with Applejack when Applejack wishes to be old enough to have the same privileges as Big Mac but end up as an elderly aged mare." Until next time folks, read, review and suggest. The scenes with Sunset Shimmer (minus the one with the Superior) can be seen the MLP: FIM annual involving the Equestria Girls prequel. Ben's argument with Flash has references to 'Disney's Hercules' and 'The Emperor's New Groove'. The items gained by Ben are (with the exception of Rainbow's feather) from the Legend of Zelda games
Chapter 1: When Friends MeetView OnlineThe Tale of SentryChapter 1: When Friends MeetChapter 1: When Friends Meet "And then, you got to strike while your enemy is distracted." Flash Sentry said, showing some defensive moods to Nyx and her friends, they all look amazed. "I hope you all remember that when the time comes." "Awesome," Scootaloo exclaims in amazement. "Who knew you would learn so many cool things?" "Right," Sweetie giggles a bit. "It's like you were learning commando since foal birth." "Well, not foal birth, Sweetie. Just when I was a bit younger," Flash remark to Sweetie with a light chuckle. "I did have some fun with my buddy Ben every now and again." "And how." A familiar voice commented. The group saw Ben, Spike and the Mane Six arriving. The Earth pony, the one who spoke, smirks while saying, "Teaching Nyx and her friends some defensive moves?" "Well, in the future, they may need them." "Oh, I hope you learned how to be fashionable in the future." Rarity said, shaking her head while brushing Sweetie's mane. "Your mane is a mess, an awful mess, Sweetie." "Awww, Rarity!" Sweetie whines a bit while pushing Rarity away. "Come on..." "So yew fillies learned a lot?" Applejack asks her sister and her friends in amusement. "Yep; An' Ah heard 'dat Fluttershy is a member o' Rarity's Pony Tones group." Apple Bloom remarked, giving a smile to the shy Fluttershy. "Oh, well...I am not a member per say...just taking baby steps...or in this case, foal steps." Fluttershy said meekly. "So still training from Chase, Ben?" Flash ask Ben curiously. "Yeah; Geez, why are you so suspicious of him?" Ben asks Flash in concern, "Being overprotective?" "Nope, of course not; it's just, something's off about him. And you know one of the rules when training to be a Royal Guard." "Always expect the unexpected. Yeah, I know." "Too bad those flank heads didn't learn it all the time when Nightmare Moon, Lorcan or the Changelings came calling." Phobos joke a bit. Of course, the others just frowns at him. "What? Sorry, it's true." "Don't do that again." Twilight sighs a bit. She changes the subject. "So you taught Ben a thing or two?" "Yeah, back when he's still a shy little pony," Flash chuckles, making Ben a bit embarrassed. "Oh, I meant that in a nice way." "Yeah, say, how did you and daddy first met, Uncle Flash?" Nyx ask Flash curiously. "Well, that is one interesting story." "Oooh, oooh, hang on!" Pinkie exclaims, getting some popcorn and snacks from...who knows where, "Okie dokie lokie! Go ahead." Flash see that most of the ponies (Scootaloo and Rainbow looks a bit bored for some reason) wants to hear the story. The Pegasus pony turns to Ben, asking, "Ben? You think it's okay?" "Go ahead. They already know my story of my life with Twilight. Time for them to hear about my life with you," Ben said to Flash with a grin. "Very well, then. It all started years ago when we were colts...I got separated from my dad who was a member of the Royal Guard to get my apple back..." In the library, Ben sighed as he listened to his teacher who taught him the meaning of 'Royalty' as 'Prince' and 'Responsibility'. This whole thing is really boring. Ben groaned in bore as he had some thoughts, 'I don't mind studying.....but this is getting ridiculous........' Suddenly, some fighting noise is heard from outside. Ben quickly opened the window . He spotted his cousin, Blueblood laughing cruelly and selfishly, levitating an orange coated Pegasus with a blue spiky mane and tail whose shook his body off hard. The colt whose is, unknown to Ben at this time, known as Flash snaps, "Get the heck off me, pal! Or you're so gonna be sorry for it!" Blueblood chuckled, "What're you going to do? Attack me? Please, peasant. You are obliged to obey my command. And show some respect to me." Blueblood, through his horn, magically levitated Flash close to him. The spoiled prince glared at the orange Pegasus. Flash sticks his tongue at Blueblood who groaned and glared at young colt. The Pegasus pony punched on his bully's muzzle, causing him to scream in pain, thus, allowing Flash to be freed. The young colt quickly starts running away from Blueblood. Blueblood angrily calls out to the Royal Guards, "Guards! Get that runt!" 5 Royal Guards sighed and groaned in annoyance as they followed Blueblood, in chasing Flash across the Canterlot Castle's garden. "What the," Ben gasp in worry and alarm. His rude cousin is trying to torment that poor Pegasus colt whose didn't even do anything to him! The teacher, noting that the student isn't paying attention, spoke to Ben sternly, "Your highness! Please pay attention! Besides, you are the heir of Princess Celestia, it is your -!" "Sorry! Gotta go!" "Your highness!" Ben stomped off quickly with haste. Ben's teacher groaned. Why his princess even took him in to begin with is beyond him. Celestia so far has trouble keeping her foals... On the side of Flash, the Pegasus colt continued to run off as fast as he can. Prince Blueblood and his Royal Guards chased after Flash as quickly as they can. The Pegasus colt smirked as he quickly took a stone and threw it at the 5 tops of barrels in horizontal lines. The barrels rolled down right at Prince Blueblood who quickly dodged down. The barrels knocked 2 Royal Guards down. Flash continued to ran as quickly as he can. The colt took a basket of fruits and threw it down right at Prince Blueblood and his 3 Royal Guards. The spoiled jerk panicked as he moved to his left while his Royal Guards have their legs tripped and rolled by the apples, oranges, grapes and more. Flash chuckled before he headed off. Blueblood groaned, "I'd swear! I'm gonna rip that brat off!" Blueblood continued charging and chasing Flash, all the way in long road. The colt turned to his left to escape. For a few meters, Flash quickly stopped in front of him as he found himself at a dead end. Not good. "Oh great," Flash exclaims with a groan. He is in big trouble now. "There you are!" Blueblood exclaims as he appears behind his target. Flash gasped as he turned to the front with his great concern and fears. "I'm going to-!" Suddenly the back of Blueblood's head was hit by something sticky, wet and slimy-like. The unicorn touched his mane slowly and gently. He put his hoof in front of him and gasped in seeing his hoof is covered by something filthy. Blueblood screamed like a girl, "My Mane; My beautiful mane!" Blueblood cried and sobbed in sadness as he quickly turned and escaped at once. Flash sighed in relief, saved by whoever it was. The colt headed off to the front as he looked around before Flash moved out. "Hey, are you alright?" A colt, AKA Ben, ask as he appears to Flash. "Yeah...... Thanks, was that you?" Flash ask Ben curiously. He must be the one since the other colt is the only one around. "Well....... um...... yeah, that would be me......." "Dude, I could have taken him down by myself." Ben looked down and sighed, "Sorry." The colt feels bad for getting in the way like that. Flash chuckled as he patted on Ben's back hard, "But having a pal like you to watch my back is so my reward." The adopted son of Celestia looks at the Pegasus colt hopefully. He has never had a friend before. Normally, all Ben got to hang with is his mother, his cousin Cadance and the castle guards, as well as the staff. "Pal; You mean...... I'm a friend?" "Of course! I don't know who else could help me to teach that stupid prince. I can't believe that my dad is working for that spoiled pony. That is stupid." Ben nodded while agreeing, "You said it." "So, what's your name, buddy?" Flash ask Ben curiously. "My name; Well.... um...... My name......." Ben said, looking down, feeling a bit shy. He spoke softly, "is Ben Mare." "Sorry? Can you repeat that name?" Flash ask Ben puzzled, not hearing the name at first. "It's Ben Mare." Ben spoke more softly. He is getting more shyer by the moment, just like a certain mare we know in the present. Flash looked awkward, asking, "Are you shy or something?" Ben looked down. "Wow, easy, kid. I didn't mean to offend you that much; just asking you. Maybe, I'll go easy on you. The name's Flash; Flash Sentry; Yours?" Flash put his hoof up and in front of Ben who looked worry. The Pegasus colt, sensing that the new pony looks scared, assures him, "It’s okay. I'm not gonna bite you or something." Ben took his hoof up and placed his on Flash's. They both shook their hooves. Ben looked surprise and shocked as he felt his heart pounding as if getting a friend for a real. Ben shook his head. Ben finally spoke more clearly, "My name is Ben Mare." "Mare; isn't that a female pony?" Flash ask Ben in surprise by the last name. Ben blushed in embarrassment, explaining, "Well........ Um........" The truth be told, his real last name is actually Maregillian but since his mother Celestia couldn't finish up the adoption certificate in time, it came out as 'Mare'. Flash chuckled as he departed his hoof from Ben, "Wow, easy. Besides, I have some friends' names whose is lot funnier than yours." "Really? Who?" "Bluewimpy Brat." Flash jokes a bit. Ben looked surprised. The stallion waved his hoof at him to come near Flash. Ben placed his ears to the colt for him to speak. "Bluewimpy Brat is Blueblood's real name." Upon hearing that, both Flash and Ben laughed together happily and in enjoyment together. Ben calm down, remarking, "Man! That's the good one! Wow, I'd never thought I actually laugh with my friend." Flash stopped his laugh, looking surprised upon hearing that. He asks, "You'd never had a friend before? Why?" Ben gulped, "Aw man!" How will he explains the real why to Flashl because the colt lived his life in the castle, barely coming out? Before the conversion would continue, a voice yells out, "Flash Sentry! Where are you?!" The colt yelps, knowing what is yelling for him. "Aw man! It's my dad! I'd better get going." The colt groans, knowing his dad would want to see him. Flash shook Ben's hoof. "It's nice in meeting you. I'll see you again, buddy." Ben grinned while saying, "Yeah...... I'll see you soon, somehow......." "You know...... we could be best pals." "What; Really?" "Yeah. Since you'd never had a best friend in your lifetime, and of course saving my flank, I, Flash Sentry, had dedicated my life to serve Ben as his best friends and best knight eternally." Flash said, saluting Ben, making the other colt smile happily. He had never has a best friend before and now... "Wow, easy. I'm not like royal king or something." Ben remarks with a chuckle. He may be Celestia's adopted son but that doesn't make him truly royalty...is it? Flash rolled his eyes while speaking, "Maybe to you. But to me, you are. After all, not every royal can be nice and gentle as Princess Celestia, unless someone is willing to do it; someone liked you." Ben thought for the moment then speaks once more, "Yeah...... I guess you're right; thanks, Flash." Flash saluted again, commentating, "Not a problem. See ya." Flash trotted off quickly. Ben smiled gently while saying, "Wow....... My very first and own best friend...... Oh. This is so awesome......" This could be a start of a brand new friendship. "So Daddy's first friend was you?" Nyx asked in surprise. "Yep, you betcha," Ben remarked to Nyx with a slight chuckle. "Right, this was a while before I attended Twilight's school and met her for the first time ever." "So did the princess and Flash's dad find out?" Rarity asks curiously. "Well, mom was a bit disappointed by me leaving class earlier." Ben admits to Rarity sheepishly. "And yes, dad did question me about going into the castle to get my apple back." Flash remarked in agreement. "But of course, luckily, things went better after that." Ben adds in proudly. "Bluewimpy Brat!" Sweetie giggled on hearing that one part Flash mentioned. "Man, that's a good one." Scootaloo remarks with a chuckle. "Right, I gotta remember that." Spike said with a laugh. "So what happened after that?" Twilight ask Ben and Flash curiously. "Well, mom found out about my little adventure..." Ben said as he got back to the story at hand. Celestia has found out that her son has left his studies, going out by himself. And of course, she was a bit disappointed. Princess Celestia sighed, "Ben, how many times do I have to tell you not to go out all by yourself? You should have asked me. You had me worry." "Sorry, mom. Besides, I was so bored....... I don't mind reading books." Ben said to his mother in concern. "But being responsible as the ruler, I don't think I can handle it." Princess Celestia sighed, "I know, my son." Ben smiles as he adds, "Oh yeah. I've made my first friend." "Really; who was it?" Celestia ask her son in curiosity and amazement. So Ben has finally got a friend of his own. How nice! "Flash Sentry," Ben said the new colt's name. "Interesting; so what makes you think of him as a friend?" Celestia ask Ben, wanting to know what makes this Flash Sentry a new friend to her son. "Well. Flash is a kinda hardcore Pegasus, not to mention that he doesn't like or respect a royalty like Prince Blueblood, which I had to agree with him with. But so far Flash is kinda a cool friend," Ben said to his mother with a smile, impressed with his new friend so far. "Really," Celestia asked, arching an eyebrow at this. "Yeah; when I was shy, Flash introduced himself to me first nicely. When I introduced mine, Flash didn't think my name as a joke or is funny, so he makes someone's name funnier than mine. Blueblood's real name is......" Ben pauses then wave his mother closer to him; Princess Celestia put her ears to Ben as he continues, "Bluewimpy Brat." Celestia and Ben laughed together happily and in enjoyment. The Alicorn of the Sun calms down enough to speak, "That's a good one, Ben." "I know. It's the best. And there's more. Flash Sentry said that he dedicated himself to serve me as his best friend and knight like I'm some kind of king." Ben said, making Celestia smile at that as if she knows something that her son doesn't. "It seems Flash Sentry is having some kind of interest of being a Royal Guard." Celestia said thoughtfully. Anyone who speaks like that is Royal Guard material. "Did you tell him about yourself for being my son?" Ben shakes his head, saying meekly, "No. I'm scared of how he reacts." "I understand. One step at a time, indeed ," Celestia said, knowing that her son wishes not to reveal himself too soon. "Yeah; I hoped I could meet him again." Ben said, hoping to meet Flash again. That is if his new friend didn't get into trouble first. "Maybe; I also thought of someone to be there and help you through some shyness problem." Celestia said with a thoughtful look. "With his help, I'm sure you won't have a problem in making friends." "Maybe...... But worth the shot." Ben said with a sigh. If anypony could help him with his shyness problem, it would be helpful. Flash told his story to a darker orange Pegasus with a blue mane like lieutenant and a small beard and mustache and a short blue tail, his Cutie Mark is a white shield with a sun, and he's wearing Royal Guard's armor: Lieutenant Hardstone, Flash's father. Once Flash is done, Hardstone glares at his son while asking, "So let me get this straight: you just go into the castle to get your apple back, cause some trouble with Prince Blueblood, and this Ben came in and save you?" Flash nervously answers, "Yeah." "You are a lot of trouble, young colt......" The stallion said sternly. Flash gulped. Hardstone chuckled. "Well done! I'd always wanted to do that to the spoiled prince brat!" This brought a look of surprise on Flash's face. His father praised him for giving trouble to Blueblood? "Really," Flash asks his father in amazement. "Would I be the kind of father who would lie to his own son?" Hardstone ask Flash with a grin. Hardstone and Flash chuckled together. The father continues speaking to his son, "So tell me, Flash. What do you think of Ben?" "Well, he was kinda a shy pony. I can't blame him being shy to new strangers or someone." Flash admits to his father. "But Ben did save my guts in time; otherwise, I would have gotten myself beaten up." Hardstone chuckled, "You know. There's old saying that shyness is the false appearance of a pony whose hides his true fangs beneath his skin as he feared to face his fears." "Yeah. I kinda noticed that, dad. There's more. I also told Ben about Blueblood's nickname." Flash said to Hardstone with a devilish smile. "Really; make me, my boy." Hardstone said to his boy curiously. Flash smirks as he answers, "Bluewimpy Brat." Hardstone and Flash laughed together. After calming down, the father comments, "That is funny!" "I know.... But I also found out that Ben never had a friend before, he said I was the first pony friend that he ever had." Flash said, feeling a bit sad for his new friend. Looking determined, the colt adds, "So I pledge and dedicated myself to serve him as his best friend and best knight." "Wow..... You would have made a best Royal Guard." Hardstone said impressed, "Always standing up for your friends, well done, Flash." "Thanks dad. I can't wait to become one." Flash said eagerly, wanting so much to be a Royal Guard. "Oh, you will, Flash. In fact, I decided to let you have your first mission." Hardstone said with a grin, having an idea. "Really," Flash asks his father excitedly. "Really," Hardstone assures his son. Flash smiles as he hugs his dad as if to say thank you. "AWESOME! I can't wait to tell Ben about this. He and I are so BFF." Flash remark with a smile. Hardstone chuckled, "I'm sure you will." Celestia and her niece Cadance did a bit of talking, the mother said, "Your cousin Ben made a new friend." "Really; that's nice." Cadance said to her aunt with a smile. "So what are your plans?" "I was pondering whatever or not I should let Flash know about Ben's connection to me. I have kept it a secret ever since my son first came to live with us." Celestia explains, although some parts of her feels that she should tell the whole story. "Well, you should! Ben shouldn't be ashamed of what his family is or be shy about it." Cadance said with a smile. "It's not every day that my little cousin gets new friends, right?" "You're right. I got some thinking to do." Celestia giggles, nuzzling Cadance a bit. "Thanks for the advice." "That's what I'm here for, auntie." Cadance said with a smile. Ever since Luna's banishment to the moon many years ago, Cadance manages to fill the void which was empty...though even the pink Alicorn may never replace Celestia's sister who has since became Nightmare Moon. Cadance leaves the room, leaving the white princess to her thoughts. Yes, she should let Flash know about the secret...not the whole thing but at least a part of it for now... "A bit for your thoughts, Celestia," A voice spoke up, startling the princess. Celestia turns to see an old pony, sitting on the table smirking. "Tao," Celestia exclaimed, relieved to see her old friend, though annoyed by that surprise. "It's great to see you, though you know I don't like being startled like that." "I do apologize, I cannot help it." Tao remarks with a chuckle. He looks out the window to see Ben getting an apple from a tree with Cadance's help. "How is your son Ben?" "He's doing fine. My son has gotten a new friend." Celestia said to Tao with a smile. "I am planning on letting Flash in on our little secret." "The adoption secret or the real secret," Tao ask Celestia, making her silent. "So you haven't told Benjamin yet; especially about his father?" "He isn't ready yet. My son is still a colt. I am ready for him to grow up before I could tell him." Celestia explains to Tao seriously. "I can't tell him, it will make him more nervous to make new friends." "Very well, Celestia; but be warned: you know what happened with Dragon Hope. I do not wish for what happened to him...happen to Ben." Tao assures Celestia. The Alicorn hesitate, looking back through the window then turns to see that Tao has disappeared. he is always doing that. "Believe me, I hope that won't happen." Celestia said to no pony in particular. A while later, Hardstone come to the princess's throne room with his son Flash who wait outside; Celestia wish to speak with the two of them; Flash was worried that he's in trouble for getting into that fight with Blueblood yesterday. "Lieutenant Hardstone. It's so good to see you here." Celestia said to Hardstone who bows to her along with Flash. "Your highness; I came here as soon as possible." Hardstone said while standing in attention. He hopes that Flash isn't in too much trouble. "Good. Because General Steel inform me that you train your colt to be the best and good at both battles and strategies; this colt also desires to become the best Royal Guard like you? Am I right?" "Yes." "Good. Because I need someone like him to help me," Celestia said with a smile. Both Hardstone is surprised, yet relived. The colt isn't in trouble so it looks like he could be in the Royal Guard after all. "Anything for you, your highness; we are the shields that protect you from anything." Hardstone said with a nod. "Good. But you must also pledge that no one and not even the citizens of Canterlot must know of my secret that I tell you about." "I'd swear." "Good. Bring your son in." Celestia requests to Hardstone with a nod. Hardstone came over to the doors and motions his son to come in. Flash follows his father then salutes while saying, "Flash Sentry, reporting for duty, your highness!: Celestia gasped before she smiled, "Greeting, Flash Sentry. Now for the secret I must reveal to you, and you must promise me not to tell anyone about it." Hardstone and Flash exclaims while standing in attention, "Yes ma'am!" "You can come out, son." Celestia said with a grin. Ben comes out from behind a curtain. Both Hardstone and Flash gasped upon seeing him. "I believe your son knows my son well." "You had a son?!" Hardstone ask Celestia in shock and disbelief. He recall stories of the princess having a daughter but she died many years ago. The Pegasus didn't think that his princess got another foal now! "Princess Celestia is your mother?!" Flash ask Ben in surprise. Ben gulped, "Eeyup...... Sorry......" The colt looks worried, fearing that his new friend would be upset for keeping this a secret from him. What now? "That....... is.......AWESOME!" "Flash," Hardstone exclaims, surprised that Flash would say that to the heir of Celestia. Celestia giggled, "It's okay. Let the boys talk." After all, Flash is excited upon hearing that his new friend is of royalty, even adopted...or is it? Ben and Flash approached each other. The Earth Pony in hope asks, "You're not mad at me?" "Mad at you? Are you kidding?! This is the best day of my life. A friend I met from the alley is actually a prince! Wow! Who would have thought of that," Flash asks eagerly and in amazement. "When I said I dedicated myself as to be your knight and best friend, I really mean it. But I'd never thought that you actually are a prince." "Yeah." "So why didn't you tell me? Wait! Don't say it. I know this: you're too shy." "Eeyup; so, you promise not to tell anyone about it?" Ben asks Flash, reminding him of his word to Ben's mother. "And break my opportunity to become a Royal Guard, and my promise to be there for you? No way! I will never break that promise." Flash assures Ben, slapping him on the back with a chuckle. "Wow...... You really mean it?" "Now why would I lie to you when we just became friends?" Ben smiled, saying, "I guess you're not lying." A true TRUE friend would never lie like that! Celestia and Hardstone came over, seeing how the two friends are doing. The princess, smiling, ask, "So, Flash, do you swear it?" "Yes, your highness." Flash said to Celestia with a smile of determination. He wants to keep his word to help Ben no matter what. The princess smiles, happy to hear that. "Good. Help and guide my son to be confident and lessen his shyness, so one day, he can go out and see Equestria." "For Equestria! And for Ben! I won't let you both down, and neither to my best friend." Ben smiled, saying, "Thanks Flash." "That's what best friends do, pal. I'm always be there for you." Flash said, nudging Ben on the shoulder. Celestia smile and chuckles a bit. For the first time, Ben has a new best friend, his very first one. "And so, that is how Flash and I became friends." Ben said with a smile as the others listen in. "So what, that's it? Wow, shortest story ever." Pinkie said, sounding a bit disappointed. "Oh, the story isn't over yet, Miss Pie." Flash said with a smirk. "You see, there's more to this story than that.." "Really; Like what?" Nyx ask her adopted uncle curiously. "Well, then, it involves what happen after that..."