Starcrossed

Chapters

Chapter 2- Twelve Years Later
Chapter 3- It Gets Worse
Chapter 5- After the Fact
Chapter 6- Reassignment
Chapter 7- Riding On A Crazy Train
Chapter 8- Moving On Up
Chapter 9- An Attempt At Theft
Chapter 10- Over The Hills And Far Away
Chapter 11~ Burning The Rose Bush
Chapter 12~ What Happens in Las Pegasus...
Chapter 13~ We Ride North
Chapter 14~ This Life Of Mine
Chapter 15~ Brothers
Chapter 1- Like Thieves in the Knight
Chapter 4- Breakthrough

Chapter 2- Twelve Years Later

The hooves of two stallions made all but silent clicking sounds against the cobblestones as they ran through the Gardens District. The Night shrouded the forms of the pegasi slightly, but half of the guards in this quarter of the city were after them. Capture would be almost inevitable. Swift turned to be sure that Flash was in tow behind him, meeting his own gray eyes with his brother's blue eyes that were desperately searching for an escape route. Dammit, Flash, he thought. Where had we gone wrong?

Of course, Swift knew where they had gone wrong. They had made one of the greatest miscalculations a thief can make. They had decided to trust someone other than themselves.

Six days prior, Swift was watching the same pair of blue eyes stroll confidently through the street. His mark was a young noble mare in the marketplace. She was staring at the jewelry at one of the vendor's stalls, completely enamored with the fine crystals. Flash was completely undetected as he flowed seamlessly through the crowd.

Ada boy, Swift cheered silently in his head. Now, make the mark before she even knows what hit her...

A few more seconds and Flash was a couple feet behind her. Carefully, he slowly outstretched his hoof, thinking of the riches this small action was about to land for him and Swift both...

"Excuse me, miss," Flash said, clearing his throat. The mare turned around, surprised. Flash gave her a friendly smile. He presented in his hoof the bracelet that he had just slipped off of her mere moments before. "I found this on the ground further down the street. Is it yours?"

Swift grinned, watching the scene unfold. The two brothers had upgraded from petty pickpocketing years ago. Their jobs had grown increasingly large and complex. They were in on everything from counterfeiting to forgery to embezzlement to grand theft. Lately they had escalated to total cat burglary.

The idea behind such a job was simple, and ironically similar to pickpocketing, only on a larger scale. You found a house, store, or other area that was filled to the brim with riches, you planned an infiltration route- like pickpocketing, usually involving a diversion- you took as many riches from the area as you could carry, and then you got the hell, out of there. It is a perfect orchestration of thieving at its best.

Swift knew without a doubt what his role was. He was a cat burglar, plain and simple. He had an almost unmatched talent for entering, pilfering, and exiting a building as unseen and unheard as a ghost. In fact, for a brief period of time in his early adulthood, Swift was convinced he would be a natural as a Guildmember to the local branch of the Thieves Guild. Only two things dissuaded him from the idea: the first was his impressionable little brother, and the second was the prestigious nature of the Guild. They came to you, you didn't go to them.

However, when Flash was still young, Swift had always worried where Flash would fit into the equation. There are many different kinds of thiefs. There were burglars like Swift who could move without the slightest hint of detection; there were masterminds who could figure a way out of or around almost any defense; there were even brutes who had a talent for looking intimidating and shaking down people (Although Flash saw these in particular as second rate due to the lack of subtlety). But Flash didn't show any skill towards any of them when he was younger. It was only when Flash had grown up a bit that Swift saw the obvious skill withing him.

Flash was an actor.

He was a natural born expert in deceiving people with words and playing a part. On other jobs, he had been a stoic ranger, an artsy novellist, an arena grand champion, and in one instance, even played the part of Soarin, one of the Wonderbolts themselves. He could convince anyone that he was anything, and that was the first skill that made him an invaluable partner. The second was that he could read people like a map, and knew exactly what every small cue meant. For such a talented actor, this role was a no-brainer: The Gentlecolt Casanova.

The mare took the bracelet and placed it back on her hoof. She smiled graciously at Flash.

"Thank you so much, Mister..."

"Stargazer," Flash said. "My name is Stargazer, miss." He lifted her hoof and lightly kissed it.

She giggled slightly.

Come on... Bite the bait a little harder, Flash thought, egging the mare on in his head.

"Well, thank you, Stargazer, but how did you know it was my bracelet? There are plenty of mares walking around in the marketplace," she inquired.

"Simple, really," Flash responded. "The inscription on the inside read 'Emerald Radiance'. When I saw your eyes, well, I thought the name fit you. They certainly are radiant, if I do say so myself." Flash grinned at her as she deeply blushed.

Bingo, he thought. Hook line and sinker.

Flash had to admit to himself; this mare was easy on the eyes. The "Emerald" part of her name was definitely, as he had guessed, in reference to her green eyes. She had a nice figure that filled out the ornate dress she was wearing. Her golden mane was intricately braided, flowing down onto her white coat. If this weren't a job, Flash might have asked this mare if she wanted to go for a drink. But his brother was very clear: this is business, not pleasure.

Why not both? Flash responded in his head.

Swift, on the other hand, watched from a vantage point of a nearby rooftop. He rolled his eyes in chagrin at Flash, hamming it up as usual. Flash was attractive- perhaps not to the point of a movie star, but he did have a magnetism to his appearance. Besides, one of the little secrets that mares try to keep hidden from stallions is that a charming scoundrel is nearly irresistible, and even in the gentlecolt garb they had acquired for this lift- as well as the admittedly flattering silver and chocolate brown they had dyed his coat and mane respectively- Flash's rugged thief personality slipped out just enough to make the mare putty in his hooves.

Emerald recovered from the initial compliment that caught her a little off guard. "Well, umm, yes. That is my name."

Unbeknownst to her, the brothers had already known that long before. She wasn't the prize here, her father was. Her father, Golden Radiance, was a wealthy banker that did business with some of the elite merchants of Canterlot. However, with wealth came greed, and with greed came paranoia.

Golden had turned his villa in the Gardens District, which held his personal vault, into a fortress. The walls were designed to be too high and smooth to climb, the waterlines were so thin and fixed with so many countermeasures even a rat could not swim through, no other buildings were close enough to leap from, and there was a twenty four/seven garrison of over a dozen private security guards patrolling the place. The only chink in the armor was his daughter, Emerald. The plan was for Flash to seduce her, gain entry into the villa by her privilege, wait until she went to sleep, sabotage the defenses for infiltration so Swift could gain entry, and once they were in, it would be a simple grab and run operation.

So far, the pieces were moving well. No major wrenches thrown into the gears yet. Emerald regained her composure with a gleaming smile. "Say, Mr. Stargazer, would you mind doing a lady as myself a great service and accompany me? I'm afraid I am lacking for companionship."

Flash- or Stragazer, as the mare knew him, replied with a gentle grin and a graceful bow. "Certainly. Such an elegant mare should not have to go about town alone," he said, escorting her. Swift still smirked from the rooftop, watching the tramp in gentlecolt's clothing enamor the mare so fully into his facade.

"Well," Swift said to himself chuckling, "I suppose that's two vaults he'll be getting into."

~~*~~

Flash opened his eyes, looking at the sleeping mare that he had only met six days ago. He had to admit, she had been a bit more charmed by him than she originally let on. This was, after all,the second night he had been over. They had had long, "romantic" talks about everything, from his background- which of course was a fabrication that he was Manehattan money on a vacation to the capital- to her own hopes and dreams of becoming an artist.

She was a very kind mare, which made it hurt all the more to Flash that he'd be breaking her heart when she woke up in the morning. His brother, Swift, was able to be cold and unemotional about these sort of things, but Flash wasn't quite so numb. True, he hated the upper class, but she had actually shown kindness to him. Maybe she was different.

"I'm sorry, but I have to do this." he whispered to the sleeping pony. He planted a light kiss onto her forehead before starting to leave. For a lesser stallion, escaping from a sleeping lover's embrace and dismounting the bed without waking her would be difficult, but Flash remembered the tips to avoiding detection Swift had taught him. He drew a deep breath and slowly lifted himself out of her arms. He gently rolled himself until he was on the edge of his bed and put his hooves to the floor. There was no time to loose.

He crept along through the corridor and down a staircase. A guard was patrolling the foyer, but Flash waited him out. He had spent the previous night he was over trying to figure out a pattern, and while he didn't get to memorize all of the guards' schedules, he did get important fragments, like windows for the gate, the foyer, and the vault antechamber itself. He crept out of the door in the foyer to the outside gardens.

The gardens acted as a courtyard for the home building, the kitchen, the storeroom, and the servant quarters to orbit around. As such, this was one of the harder areas to sneak by. A guard patrol could come from almost any direction on it's way to another area. Flash saw a patrol of two guards chatting as they walked towards the main building, right where he was standing.

"Ponyfeathers," he cursed under his breath. He ducked behind a pillar, letting them pass.

"...Did you hear about that royal wedding that's going on not too far from now?" One of the guards said.

"Yeah," the other replied. "I heard it was between Princess Cadance and that new Captain. What was his name again?"

The other scoffed. "Shining Armor, I think. Admittedly, he seems a bit young to be heading the guard on his own, but I don't know. I guess Celestia has plans. Say wanna get a drink after this?" The two trotted away as their voices got more distant. Flash crept out from behind the pillar and silently made his way to the main gate. He whistled a couple of notes that rose in pitch. A couple of moments later, he saw Swift come up to the gates from the shadows.

"Miss me?" Swift whispered to him.

Flash smiled and lifted a lever opening the gate. Swift silently rolled through the gate as Flash pulled the wrought iron fencing up. "The vault is in that main building there in a basement. Two guards just went that way and I'm not sure where they are."

Swift smirked, patting his brother on the back. "Now now, Flash. I appreciate you doing your part, but remember. I got this." He walked by Flash, entering the house. Unsure what Swift's plan was, he walked in with his brother. When they got to the foyer, Swift stopped him. "Wait here. I'll be right back." Like that, Swift disappeared down into the basement.

As Flash waited in the foyer, the time passed like centuries, the constant threat of a guard popping up putting him on edge. He focused so hard on hearing any nearby sound that the only thing he could perceive was the hum of white noise and pounding of his heart. Trust the plan. Trust the plan. Trust the-

"Is that you Stargazer, my dear?"

Flash's heart nearly shot into the sky at the familiar voice. He turned, startled by the visage of a sleepy eyed but confused Emerald Radiance staring at him, now dressed in a nightgown.

Oh, buck me, he thought. "I was just getting up to have a midnight walk in the garden, love. Would you care to follow?" He smiled, desperately pulling all the charm he could muster. At first Emerald looked doubtful, but that gave way to a seductive smile.

"Ever the romantic, aren't you?" she said. Flash was about to take her arm when he heard a too-loud voice from the stairs.

"Hey, there was hardly a thing down there. Our tip must have been bad. Still I did get a whole-" Swift shut up as soon as he hit the top of the stairs and saw the two ponies. "-saddlebag," he finished

"What in Tartarus is going on?" Emerald asked. "Stargazer, who is this?"

Swift was hoping Flash would think of a smart course of action. He was hoping he'd at least have the good since to knock the mare out, or at least just run, but Flash was about to break Swift's cardinal rule when it came to thievery.

He was about to let emotion get involved.

Flash drew in a sigh. "Emerald, look. There's something I need to confess..."

No, Flash...

"I'm not a Manehattan aristocrat..."

Shut up, Flash...

"Truth is... well... my brother and I..."

Dammit, Flash. Do something. Run. Hide. Knock her out cold. Hell, even kill her. Just don't say-

"We're thieves."

Well, we're bucked.

"Thieves?" Emerald replied shocked. Suddenly, understanding filled her eyes. "You were really after the money... I was your way in..."

"No," Flash retorted. "That was how this started, but things are different now. You're absolutely amazing. We have had such interesting, amazing talks about everything. I know that you love the smell of honeysuckles, and how you think it's weird that green reminds you of winter, and how you one day want to design a stainglass window for the castle..."

He took her hooves in his as he kept talking, her face slowly softening from a scowl to a bemused stare. Swift would have been far less embarassed if this was part of the act, but he could tell the difference. Flash was actually speaking from his heart. Flash, you damned fool. Don't let emotion get in the way. Run. Now. While we have a head start.

"Look, I know this sounds crazy, but please, run away with me. We can have a life together- a real life without all the trickery and deceit. Please," Flash looked deep into her eyes, every part of him begging and pleading for her to say yes.

"Stargazer... I suppose I could fall in love with him: a gentlecolt with class and money. But you? Some piece of street trash? Never." Flash's heart sunk in his chest, making him feel weighed down. The glee of sharing the truth with the girl he had come to have feelings for was shattered. It was just the clothes... the suit and fancy style... that's all she fell in love with... His chest felt literally torn in two at the realization.

She screamed at the top of her lungs, knowing the guards would come running. Swift tried to drag Flash as he stood petrified. "Flash! What the Tartarus are you doing? We have to get out of here! Come on!" He finally shook Flash from his heartache long enough for the panic to hit his younger brother. They both ran from the foyer and into the dark streets.

It's all her fault. Why did you trust her, Flash? Swift thought in his head as the sounds of guards came from every direction. He desperately looked around. They were in one of the many gardens. In a lesser chase, they could have easily lost the guards in the bushes, or at least bought time with a well timed ambush, but with half the district's guards converging on them and no rooftops or alleyways to disappear to, there was no escape plan.

Well, there was one.

The thought crossed Swift's mind too fast for him to think of the consequences. Not that it would have mattered. The decision wouldn't have changed. Swift reached into the saddlebag that the wealth was in and drew ten banknotes, each worth twenty bits.

"Swift, are you nuts? We are in way too deep to buy our way out of here," Flash chided, noting their often last resort of paying the guards to look the other way for thirty seconds.

"We aren't getting out of here. You are." He handed Flash the bills.

"Wait, what?"

"Listen to me. This money should be able to keep you going long enough to lay low while this thing passes. Find somewhere safe to hunker down, avoid attention, and wait the search out."

"But why would you..." undrestanding dawned in Flash's eyes. "Oh, no, Swift. I'm not leaving you behind."

"Yes you are. You know me. Any cage they can lock me in, I can bust out of. But you? You're skills lie elsewhere. Listen, just do as I told you. I promise I'll come back and find you, but now you have to go."

Flash had tears in his eyes. He couldn't do it. He couldn't leave his only brother- the only person ever there for him- to get captured and sentenced to prison or worse, but Swift's face seemed adamant. After all, Flash's emotions had already put them in this mess in the first place. As tears streamed down his cheeks, Flash pulled his brother in for a hug.

"I'm not going to forget you, Swift. I love you." Then, before he could be discovered, Flash fled over a fence and around a corner, determined his brother would find him again.

Swift, of course, knew the whole thing was a lie. The fate awaiting him was either a high security stay in the dungeon or an axe at the chopping block. Had Flash known the truth, however, he wouldn't have left, and it would be meaningless for both of them to die. He preferred the axe. Better to die on one's knees than live the same way, after all. He heard the guards before he saw them, but nevertheless, three well armored and well pissed off stallions entered through the garden gate sealing off the only exit. Swift drew a dagger and a short sword, determined to buy Flash as much time as he could to escape. After all, if he was going to die, he might as well take some of these bastards with him. He gave a delightfully defiant smirk to the sergeant.

That's it. Come on. I'm right here, motherbucker. he taunted them in his head. He raised his blades and leaped at them howling like a mad pony. He had always been willing to give anything and everything for Flash, and he was about ready to make good on that promise.

Flash did just as Swift had told him. He had spent the first two days on the run trying to fly to Cloudsdale. That alone proved to be a feat. As a city pony in a majority earth pony and unicorn city, flight had never been a big priority for Flash. The most he ever had to fly was no more than twenty meters upward to repair a leak in the roof. Flying all the way to Cloudsdale was excruciating and easily the most demanding task he had ever accomplished. There were times his wings would simply refuse to flap out of exhaustion and he'd have to rest.

Still, after twenty three or so kilometres, he was there. Cloudsdale was almost like a second Canterlot. It was a large city, and definitely easy to lose your identity in. For days, Flash held out, waiting for Swift to return. Days turned to weeks, and weeks eventually to months. After a couple of months had passed and mid winter changed to late spring, Flash started to worry about where Swift was.

The money had, of course, run out, and Cloudsdale was not as lined with wealth as the streets of Canterlot. Moreover, working without a partner was almost impossible. Sure, Flash could stay alive with petty pickpocketing, but it killed him to be humbled back to such a lowly trade. Even pickpocketing was almost impossible due to the ever watchful eyes of the disproportionately high number of guards. Flash would have given almost anything for a respectable amount of income.

That's when the recruiters showed up. Apparently, the guard was suffering for membership and was hoping to recruit some new members. The prospect seemed too enticing to a recently impoverished Flash. He had to look at the facts: He had no idea where his brother was, no ability for income, and no shelter or food. The situation was rather dire, and Swift had always taught Flash to think of things by advantage. After all, it's not like he couldn't pass for a guard: He was a fit stallion- perhaps not brimming with muscle, but certainly far from feeble- and Swift had said he could play any part...

Flash walked over to the stand the recruiters had set up and was greeted with a friendly all but hidden under a guard's helmet and a bulky form. "Hello there, son. Are you interested in joining the best fighting force in Equestria?"

Flash hesitated. "... What do I get for it?"

The recruiter issued booming laughter. "Other than the pride of looking damn fine in a uniform? Room and board wherever you're stationed and a stipend for when you're off duty. Why, we have guards on every assignment imaginable, from sleepy Ponyville, to bustling Manehattan, even the capital of Canterlot itself! And let's not forget the magnificent Las Pegas-"

Flash's ears perked up. "Did you say... Canterlot?" He smirked from ear to ear. If he was stationed at Canterlot, no doubt he would be able to find his brother there if anywhere, and while he was at it, he would have free food and a warm, dry bed to sleep in. This really sounded better and better.

The recruiter shared his smile. "You know, I had you pegged for a big city sort of stallion. You want to put the royal in Royal Guard, huh?"

Flash nodded. The recruiter started filling out the forms. "Ok, son. What's your name?" Flash wondered what he should go by. He couldn't use his given name, Flash Hoof. It would be child'splay to trace his name back. He started to mull it over.

Shield? No, too simple. Paladin? That doesn't sound right. Guard? Oh, come on, Flash. Now you're just not trying. Suddenly, it hit him.

"Sentry. Flash Sentry," he replied.

The recruiter scribbled in his name. When he had completely filled out the name, hometown, and physical description on the form, he checked a box that read "Diplomatic Guard Corp" and shook Flash's hoof. "Son, welcome to the guard!" he exclaimed.

Flash could not believing his luck. Things were looking up, as he would soon be able to find his brother and hide in plain sight so long as he kept the charade up.

Still, he had no clue just how much this decision would change his life.

Chapter 3- It Gets Worse

Flash strode down the corridor as the amber rays of the rising sun cascaded through the windows. He'd grown used to waking up at the crack of dawn in the last month. After all, guard duty had gone from a terrifying thought to a complacent routine

He had to admit, being in the guard was far easier than he had originally imagined. The basic training was surprisingly simple. They had essentially only spent about two weeks teaching the bare bones of guard duty. The main lessons were on proper marching rank and form, chain of command protocol, patrol patterns, and of course basic combat technique. Of course, Flash had already known most of this from his previous career; when he was still just a colt, Swift had stressed teaching him how to spot a patrol route and how to fight. After all, they were major tools of a thief.

True to his talent of acting, Flash had of course buried that past life in the last month in a new persona.Flash Hoof the thief from Canterlot was gone. Flash Sentry the guardsman from Manehattan was born. He had spent some time developing a new cover identity and sticking with it.

The first week or so was the hardest for Flash. One thing he had to get over was his obsession for taking everything that wasn't nailed down to the floor. After all, he had spent the last decade and a half scraping by with his brother, desperately clinging to the meager spoils available in the lower districts. Now here he was, in the high quarter itself, surrounded by more riches he had dreamed of ripe for the taking. It had taken him all of his willpower to break the habit and resist the urge to steal.

Another problem was that he had been burdened by extensive worry that some form of paper work would be needed during his entry to the guard. For days, he kept on edge, expecting someone to ask for proof of his identity or origin. Luckily for him, however, people weren't asking many questions right now. A threat had been made against the city of Canterlot by an unknown force, sending everyone on high alert. Guard shifts were doubled, extra occupancy had been garrisoned into the city, and a large barrier had been thrown over the entirety of Canterlot.

It so happened that this threat in particular was worth minding, given the Captain was due to have a wedding soon. Flash had still never met the mysterious Captain of the Guard, but he had heard grand stories about him. He was certainly a VIP, but his significance paled in comparison to the fact that all three princesses were conveniently in the same city at once. Add in that many of the elite of Equestria had come to see the royal wedding and the risk of a successful attack was simply to great.

There was good news and bad news about the high alert. The bad news was that Flash was exhausted from the busy schedule of patrols that had vastly increased. His hooves ached and his eyes sagged sleepily when he wasn't actively trying to keep them open. He had hardly a free hour this entire week in routine composed entirely of sleeping, eating, and marching on patrol.

The good news was that while security had been stepped up for an invasion, security had also declined in certain areas that were not as significant as the perimeter. Ironically, the dungeon was nearly deserted relative to the usual garrison stationed there. Flash finally found a window of time to get in. No one wanted to work the morning shift, so it was always the weakest. He could sneak through the dungeon unseen with ease. It was quite the risk to snoop around in the dungeon, but the payoff was worth it.

Even in his brief time as a guard, Flash had never stopped looking for Swift. It had been months since he had to leave his brother behind, and untrue to his word, Swift had not found Flash. However, Flash was more concerned by the fact that he had not seen or heard any sign of Swift in all of that time. He had simply vanished, from what the public and criminal realms knew. Flash knew it was a long shot to think Swift might be in the dungeon under an unknown alias, but he had to try. This was his dear brother.

Luckily, this arrangement had gone well so far. Everything was aligned to give Flash a quick, clean shot to get in, look for Swift, and get out. Everything was going well for once.

Then she happened.

Distracted in all of his thoughts, Flash didn't hear the sound of hooves hitting the floor rapidly. as he turned the corner, he and the mare both collided. Flash was knocked back a bit, but mostly held his footing. The mare on the other hand fell onto the stone of the corridor.

She was a unicorn with a deep lavender coat. Her mane was styled long with bangs, colored a deep purple save for one stray pink strand. Keeping with the rest of her appearance, she had large violet eyes. His eyes had even subconsciously been drawn to her admittedly shapely body. If Flash were in a better state of mind, he undoubtedly would have thought of her as an attractive mare. But as tired as he was, with a window quickly closing, he only saw another manipulative canterlot elite type.

Just like Emerald, he reminded himself. He stuck out a hoof to offer help up to the mystery mare. "Can I help you, miss?" he said, in a formal, business like tone.

The unicorn seemed both frantic and frustrated, as she got back to her hooves."You can start by looking where you're going," she said, her sardonic attitude evident.

Flash rolled his eyes, now equally frustrated. What'd I tell you, Flash. Typical Canterlot prima donna. He turned to continue his walk to the dungeon. "Of course, miss. By all means, do call if you need anything else," Flash said as the sarcasm was thick with every word.

The mare huffed in surprise. "How rude! I have half a mind to complain to the Captain of the Guard about your manners," She said indignantly.

Flash was taken aback for a moment by that. She knew the Captain of the Guard? How could he have been so foolish! He couldn't afford to mouth off to people who were this high on the social ladder, especially after he had worked so hard to bury his true identity. In all honesty, his outburst had been very out of his character, even when acting as himself rather than his guardsman persona. However, lack of sleep and stress had made him edgy, and in his defense, she had started all of this.

"I don't have time for this," Flash said, hoping to call the mare's bluff. He turned and trotted away with in he opposite direction from her as he faintly heard her grumbling under her breath. Flash continued on his way until he realized where the mare was going. The door she was cantering towards so happened to be where the captain and Princess Cadence's wedding rehearsal was going on. She seriously was going to complain to the captain.

Oh, damn. She wasn't kidding. "Miss!" Flash called after her. "You can't go in there. The wedding rehearsal is going on! Miss!"

It was to no avail, as the mare showed no signs of stopping. She kept her brisk stride, focused on the door. Thoroughly frightened for his cover being blown, Flash tried to catch up to her. If he was lucky, maybe he could beg her forgiveness and appease the mare enough to leave her complaint alone.

This was a fruitless pursuit, however. Just as he caught up to her enough to be in grovelling range, she Flung the large doors open. Flash's heart leapt into his throat as he saw the scene before him. If he thought he was in it deep before, any hope of getting out of this well was gone. The room was not only occupied by a white, oddly familiar looking stallion with electric blue hair that likely was the captain, but both Princess Celestia and Princess Cadence were also standing there. There were also five ordinary mares, but they didn't seem too important relatively. After all, what would they matter when he was about to get embarassed in front of his highest commanding officer, but also two of the most powerful people in all of Equestria.

His mind started to think about what Swift would have done in this situation, but it was a short thought. The truth is, Swift would have never gotten himself into this. When that failed, he tried thinking about what Swift would have said in the situation. The likely answer was something along the lines of, "Dammit, Flash! Why didn't you run when you had the chance? Surely it would have been a safer option than this." That didn't help him much either. He readied himself for a desperate getaway in the imminent occurence of the unicorn blowing his cover.

"I'm not going to stand next to her!" the mare shouted indignantly "And neither should you!"

The air was sucked completely out of the room. Everyone in the ceremony stood for a moment, shocked by the sudden outburst. Even Flash's jaw hang loose for a second before he breathed an inaudible sigh of relief.

The bride looked at her fiance for an explanation. Caught between a rock and a hard place, he made an embarassed smile. "I'm sorry... I don't know why she's acting like this..." he said apologetically.

Princess Cadence seemed annoyed as she scowled at the unicorn. "Maybe we should just ignore her."

"You have to listen to me!" The unicorn said, stamping her hoof indignantly.

One of the five ordinary mares- a yellow pegasus- meekly asked, "Oh goodness! Are you ok?"

"I'm fine," the pestered purple mare stated contrary to her tone.

"Are you sure about that?" an earth pony wearing a large cowpony hat asked in a deadpan voice. The unicorn, showing the same manners as she had with Flash, used a telekinesis field to pull her hat down over the other mare's face.

"I've got something to say!" she shouted. She raised her hoof and pointed directly at the bride-to-be. "She's evil!"

The whole room was filled with shocked whispers and surprised murmurs as Princess Cadence seemed grievously wounded by the comment. The purple unicorn seemed like she was just getting warmed up as she began to advance closer to the bride, forcing her to back away. "She's been horrible to my friends, she'd obviously done something to her bridesmaids, and if that wasn't enough, I saw her put a spell on my brother that made her eyes go all-" she said, motioning to her eyes rolling uncontrollably. The room was dead silent for a few tense seconds before Princess Cadence burst into tears.

"Why are you doing this to me?" she sobbed before running for the door.

"Cause you're evil!" The mare called out triumphantly. "And if I don't stop you you're going to ruin my brother's life!" The mare did an about face before running into the captain himself, looking down with a frustrated scowl.

"Do you want to know why my eyes went all-" he asked, imitating the motion the mare had done with her eyeballs. "Because ever since I started having to preform my protection spell, I've been getting terrible migraines. Cadence hasn't been casting spells on me. She's been using her magic to heal me. And she decided to replace her bridesmaids because she found out the only reason they wanted to be in the wedding was so they could meet Canterlot royalty. And if she hasn't been on her best behavior with your friends, it's because with me being so busy, she's had to make all the decisions about the wedding."

"I was just trying to-" the unicorn started to rebut until the captain cut her off.

"She's completely stressed out because it is really important to her that our big day be perfect! Something that obviously wasn't important to you!" The captain trotted past the mare, walking forward to the exit. Flash had already moved away from the doorway as soon as the focus was shifted away from him, sticking close to a corner to avoid attention.

"Now if you'll excuse me," the captain continued, "I have to go comfort my bride. And you can forget about being my best mare. In fact, if I were you, I wouldn't bother showing up to the wedding at all." The captain exited the chamber, trotting away down the hall.

The other five mares' reactions ranged from awkwardly slinking away to angrily looking at the mare.

"Come on ya'll," the mare with the hat from earlier said. "Let's go check on the princess." The five exited simultaneously, avoiding eye contact with the unicorn.

As Princess Celestia walked past her, the purple mare tried to explain herself. "I... I just-"

"You have a lot to think about," the monarch said coldly. The mare's expression looked as though she had just been stabbed through her heart, her mouth open in silent shock as the princess exited, shutting the double doors behind her. The only two left in the room were the mare and Flash, who had seemingly remained undetected by the unicorn in his hiding spot in the corner.

"Maybe I was being overprotective," she said to herself. "I could have gained a sister, but instead I've lost a brother." She laid down on the stairs leading up to the wedding alter. As

Flash saw small tears spring to her eyes, he heard her start to sing somberly to herself.

"He was my big brother best friend forever. And now we'll never do anything together."

Wow. That is rough. I mean, she started it, but still. Flash felt a strange sense of compassion in the pit of his stomach for this mare. Maybe it was simple pity from seeing someone lay their emotions out in front of him, but the sensation still remained. He internally debated revealing his hiding spot and walking over to comfort her against his better judgement, but before he could get the chance, he saw Princess Cadence walk up to her and gently, forgivingly smile at the crying unicorn.

Flash was almost touched for a moment, thinking maybe this was his cue to exit, but as he reached for the door, he realized something. The double door's were the room's only entrance. How had Cadence gotten in without him noticing? Something wasn't adding up.

"I'm sorry," the purple unicorn said. Suddenly Cadence's calm, forgiving demeanor twisted into a scornful glare.

"You will be."

Suddenly, Flash saw Cadence cast a ring of green fire around the unwitting mare. He watched in stunned horror as the ring sank the pony into the floor until she disappeared. For a moment he didn't believe his eyes, trying desperately to rationalize what he had just seen. However, his thoughts soon turned to panic as an identical ring suddenly formed around him.

"What's this?" the princess said in an amused tone. "An interloper who saw too much for his own good? I'll have to fix that."

The floor began to absorb Flash also, his hooves vanishing into the stone. He tried to scream, but his voice was muted completely as he felt himself getting lower and lower. He caught one last glimpse of Cadence looking directly at him with a twisted smile before darkness encapsulated him.

The next thing he saw was the faint glow of crystals surrounding him. He looked around, desperate to get his bearings as his eyes adjusted. It took him a moment to realize where he was.

He was trapped in one of the caves under Canterlot Castle.

Panic gripped Flash as he started to lose control. Ok, Ok. Just calm down. There's gotta be a way out of here. I just have to think this through. After all, it can't get any worse, right?

That's when he suddenly heard hoovesteps behind him. As he turned around, he first saw the dim shimmer of a purple light, accompanied by the buzzing sound produced by a horn casting magic. After a second, he started to make out the face of another pony. She was the exact same mare he had run into in the hall. The same unicorn he had seen sink into the floor of the castle.

"You!" she shouted, frustrated to once again see this stallion. Flash sighed.

I stand corrected. It just got worse.

Chapter 5- After the Fact

Voices wondered in and out of the half-conscious brain, no words could be deciphered, no, only the monotones and high pitched warbles reverberated through the skull. Sight wasn't available at the moment so the world appeared to be just darkness, sound, and touch, silken bed sheets lay softly on top of the flesh and a plush fabric supported the back underneath. The stomach area hurt, a lot, not a searing burning pain, no, more like a constant aching pain that slowly drove one mad.

A beautiful voice broke through the fog, it was soft and clear and it was calling his name.

Flash opened his eyes.

He lay in a small hospital bed, the sheets tucked in comfortably tight around him. Above light barely made it through the thick canopy of the medical tent, without even looking Flash could detect lots of commotion around him, swift hoofbeats, hurried speech, and the occasional moan of pain. His vision of the thick canopy and metal beam was filled with the pretty sight of Twilight Sparkle.

"Your awake." She said in a relieved tone, a soft smile coming to her lips, Flash weakly returned the smile before speaking.

"What happened?" He asked, then more urgently "Are the Changeling's still here?" Flash tried to sit up but was met with lightheaded ness that made his vision churn, Twilight gently laid him back down with her magic.

"Easy" she said soothingly "Your in no condition to exert yourself." Flash forced himself to relax as Twilight continued.

"After your.... Injury, a platoon of Royal Guard's showed up and helped beat back the Changelings, me made it to the Hall of the Element's but more Changeling's awaited us there, they captured us and brought us back to their Queen."

Twilight shuttered "It was terrifying, the Princess was sealed in this green pod and there was nothing any of us could do, luckily, Cadence was able to snap Shining Armour from the Changeling's spell and send the lot of them packing."

Flash took it all in "So everything okay now?"

Twilight smiled "Yes, repairs are being made and the wounded are being treated, we won."

Flash sat up more gingerly "Well that's a relief." He smiled back at Twilight "And your alright?" He asked in slight concern.

Twilight waved it off "I'm fine, scratch free... Thank's to you." She said softly.

Flash rubbed the back of his head "Nah, I was doing my job, your the one to thank for seeing what was really going on."

Twilight wasn't to be foiled "But I would have never been able to get out of those cages without your smashing nor would I have survived the Changeling attack."

Flash frowned, really, he hadn't done much. Sure his stubborn banging of his head had revealed the hollow Crystal but that had been dumb luck and when he fought to protect Twilight he was only doing his duty. It didn't feel right to be given credit for small, rather uninspiring, deeds.

As Flash opened his mouth to say so a new voice interrupted him.

"She's right, you fought well." The voice said, Flash turned to where it had come from, Shining Armour, Captain of the Royal Guard, stood to his right. In a flurry of dutiful panic Flash tried to get out of bed so he could salute his superior, instead the result was him tripping, falling half out of bed so his bottom half was still in the bed and his head awkwardly of the floor, he looked up in embarrassment at his Captain and managed to bring his hoof up to his brow.

"Trooper Flash Sentry of the sixty-seventh Royal Equestrian Guard Corps, sir." Flash said weakly, his cheeks flushed from embarrassment. The Captain chuckled and Flash's cheeks flushed even hotter, he was making a fool of himself in front of his boss.

"At ease, soldier." Shining said with a smile, offering his hoof to the fallen Pegasus "My sister here told me all about your bravery today, and I have to say, I'm impressed."

Accepting the hoof Flash felt a bit flustered at the praise "Well... Thank you sir, I'm honoured sir."

Shining chuckled again "Lighten up a little bit, take the compliment as it is, and, as a brother rather than a Captain, I would like to thank you for protecting my sister."

The embarrassment was still there but, fleetingly, Flash allowed himself to feel a bit proud of his actions. He had done the right thing, and it felt good, really good, and the praise he got from it was satisfying in the extreme.

"T-thank you, sir." Flash said quietly. Shining nodded at him, in the back of him mind the Captain swore he had seen this Pegasus before. Not in a military environment, no, it was something else, but he couldn't quite grasp it. Shining dismissed the thought.

"Now if you will excuse me, I need to get going, Flash Sentry? Keep up the good work." Once again Flash's chest swelled with pride and Shining walked away, Flash felt a poke on his side and turned to see a grinning Twilight.

"You were blushing more than a starstruck schoolcolt." She said with a giggle.

"I was not!" Flash said defensively, his cheeks burning hot again. Twilight broke out in a fit of giggles before gesturing for Flash to follow her.

"Come on, some fresh air will be good for you."

Twilight lead flash through the crowded tent, medics both military and civilian moved dutifully to and fro, caring for the sick and injured. And there was a lot, most were Royal Guard's with varying stab wounds that were similar to Flash's. He watched as a unicorn doctor lit his horn and closed the hole with a blast of powerful healing magic.

Guess that's how I recovered.

The exited the medical tent into the bright evening, all around troops marched, removing rubble, boarding up holes and directing civilians to safe zones. Twilight guided Flash through the crowd, she nimbly dodged through the mass while Flash hand to push and shove. Eventually they broke through and found themselves on a large balcony-like alcove, it was covered in grass and it overlooked the fields, forests, and mountains that lay in front of Canterlot. It was a beautiful sight.

Twilight looked over the edge at the view and Flash joined her, they stood in silence for only a moment before the mare broke it.

"I am really thankful Flash." She said softly "you saved my life, more than once."

"As everyone keeps telling me." Flash replied a bit ruefully, but with a smile "I was only doing what was right."

"Yeah, but I'm still glad you did, even though I had been acting... Well, frankly, like a bitch." Twilight said, which got a snort of laughter out of Flash.

"What?" Twilight asked, confused.

"Sorry, I just never imagined you had a fowl mouth." Flash chuckled, Twilight giggled with him for a moment before going silent.

"....Flash?" She asked slowly.

"Yeah?"

"When you... Ran off, you yelled something about your brother." Twilight stated.

Flash's brow immediately broke out in a sweat.

Oh buck me, Oh buck me, Oh buck me, Oh buck me, Oh buck me, Oh buck me, Oh buck me, think of something Flash! Think of something!

"That's right, I did." Flash said as steadily as he could.

"Where is your brother?" Twilight pried.

"He..." Flash hesitated "I don't know." He answered honestly "We had a..." Flash thought for a second "Falling out." A lie, but a feasible one.

"What happened?" Twilight asked.

Panic set in again, What did happen? Flash thought, it didn't help that he didn't know the true answer to that question, nay, it made it harder to create a believable lie. Why should he lie? He could simply spill the truth, get this heavy weight off of his back, get the dirty feeling from his skin. But no, he knew that he couldn't do so, he would be arrested in a second.

So he avoided answering.

"I'd rather not talk about it." Flash said evasively.

"It's okay I understand, but I will eventually want and answer." Twilight said.

Flash dreaded that day "That's fair enough." He said.

A pause.

"Listen, I'm going to have to return to Ponyville soon, I want you to write to me occasionally, keep in touch." Twilight said.

"All I hear from you is 'be my friend'" Flash said in joke.

Twilight giggled "So what do you say?"

"Yes, I'll be your friend Twilight Sparkle."

Chapter 6- Reassignment

Celestia's holy ovaries, it's bucking cold.

Flash Sentry's teeth chattered rabidly, the noise echoed through the evening air. It was quiet, the wind had died down (Thank Celestia for that) but the snow still fell relentlessly. Visibility was minimal, Flash found himself questioning what was the use of guarding the wall if he couldn't see a centimetre in front of his muzzle.

Flash sighed, it had been two years since the Battle of Canterlot. After the city had been secured and order restored, the Princess and her commanders had looked to their borders, particularly the north and east borders, and sought to strengthen security and power in those areas. Thus Flash, being only a measly Trooper at the time-Although now he was proud to boast the rank of Cavalrycolt-was assigned to Fort Snowhawk near the northern border that separated Equestria from the city state of Stalliongrad.

The Pegasus ruffled his wings and shook the thin layer of snow off his back, the Snowhawks- Guards appointed to Fort Snowhawk -didn't wear the traditional golden plated armour of the Canterlot Royal Guard, instead Flash was wrapped in fur-lined leather wrappings and a warm blue cloak in which the insignia of Fort Snowhawk was inscribed, the likeness of a hawk flying upwards to pierce a snowflake with its beak.

The past year or so had been less guarding the fort than it had been training to guard the fort. Commander White Blizzard was a tough leader, he was grizzled, bearded and sorted many scars that he claimed came from Gryphon soldiers. The Commander insisted on unorthodox training methods, sending out teams of three to five to survive in the worst of blizzards to learn how to survive, advanced spear and weapon tactics were taught daily as to keep the Snowhawks on par with both enemies and other forts ( Commander Blizzard believed in showing up the other forts on Equestria 'Especially those blasted Phoenix's in the south' he would say.)

Twilight had written of course, weekly at first but had deviated and fell into a much more reasonable bi-weekly pattern. Unfortunately mail only came once a month to Fort Snowhawk, due to the harsh weather that made hard flying for Pegasi, still, Flash read the bundle of letters that had come at the end of every month and written back every time, the day became something to look forward to in an otherwise cold and harsh lifestyle.

"CAVALRYCOLT FLASH SENTRY!" Commander White Blizzard's gruff voice echoed through the silent snowfall "FRONT AND CENTRE." The voice had come from behind Flash, in the courtyard that was used for drills and parades, Flash flared his wings and glided down from the wall and onto the ground, just barely he could see the form of the Commander through the snow. He trotted up and saluted.

"Sir!" Flash said respectively, White Blizzard saluted back, his ice-blue mane cut to military length and his sky blue coat covered in his semi-ornate Commander's uniform.

"Come inside out of the cold lad, we have things to discuss." He said and lead Flash the short distance to Snowhawk Keep proper, they walked through the heavy iron door and into the humble keep. Inside was a simple foyer and several halls and doors leading to other rooms (Barracks, kitchen, war room, and the like) a set of stairs lead upwards to the Commanders office, they climbed them.

White Blizzard's office was adorned with metals, awards, and trophies galore. The Snowhawk banner was pinned to the wall just behind White Blizzard's cluttered desk, the Commander trotted behind said desk and rummaged through the drawers for a moment or two before producing a sealed letter.

"This came for 'ya, your eyes only." He said, passing the letter over to Flash who accepted it with a confused look.

"Sir? Mail day isn't for another three weeks," he said.

"I know that soldier, thus came via military courier," the Commander replied.

Flash raised an eyebrow, his curiosity good and peaked now. He broke the seal on the letter- The Equestrian Military standard -and read:

To Cavalarycolt Flash Sentry of Fort Snowhawk,

After reviewing your performance during the Battle of Canterlot and other positive reports, I have decided that, effective immediately, you will be reassigned. You new posting will be as the personal protector of the newly coronated Princess Twilight Sparkle.

Report to Canterlot Palace A.S.A.P, there is a chariot in Vanhoover waiting your arrival.

Captain Shining Armour, commander of the Equestrian Royal Guard.

The shock must have been evident on Flash's face because the Commander looked a bit worried "is something wrong lad?" He asked.

Reassigned? What? How? And Twilight? Since when was she a Princess? That's kinda something you write about... Unless it happened within a month.... WHO BECOMES A PRINCESS IN A MONTH?!

"I... Uh... I'm being resigned," Flash said "I need to head to Canterlot immediately." Flash looked up at the Commander who looked both relieved and understanding.

"Well, best you be on your way soldier." White Blizzard said.

"Yes, sir!" Flash chanted, saluting again "I'll send the cape and armour back as soon as possible!"

"Don't bother," White Blizzard said "your a official Snowhawk, wear the colours proudly wherever 'ya go."

"Yes, sir! It's an honour sir!" Flash said, pride swelling his chest, he galloped out of the keep and flew into the snowfall.

Time to go home.

~~*~~

Twilight looked herself in the mirror, her mane shined with care and was styled perfectly. Her fur and feathers and been cleaned and preened respectively to a glossy sheen. Her crown had been placed absolutely centred atop her head.

Ooooh, I look terrible, she fussed.

Twiloght patted her mane absentmindedly, staring at her crown, the Element of Harmony. She was still reeling from recent events, it felt like she had become a Princess overnight-mostly because she quite literally had-and the weight of the responsibility was still settling on her naive little shoulders.

That was the purpose of this tour, immediately after the shock and awe of her new wings had dissipated. Celestia had come to Twilight and had suggested a country-wide tour, to make appearances in every major city across Equestria, to show that she cared, and to familiarize her with they many different local cultures, traditions, and attitude as to better serve the citizenry.

Absentmindedly Twilight poked the necklace around her neck, it was gold, with a single ruby in the centre of the pendant. A gift from her mother on her coronation day, apparently it held an enchantment to make spells less taxing on a Unicorns magical reserves.

Twilight liked the idea of the tour, it made sense. But that didn't mean she was any less nervous about the whole thing.

What if they don't like me? Most of the Ponies have never heard of me and now I just show up and tell them I'm their new Princess, what if they reject me?! Run me out if town!? Riot?! Declare independence?! Start a civil war that will tear Equestria apart and eventually overthrow Celestia?!? What if....?!?

"Princess Twilight? Your presence is requested in the main hall."

Twilight turned from the mirror, a Royal Guard had his head poked through the slightly ajar door. The sight of the golden plate armour made Twilight's heart ache slightly for a certain Guard of her own, over the past two years she had kept up contact with Flash Sentry but strangely she found herself longing to see him in person... In a completely platonic way, she assured herself.

Regaining her composure Twilight looked at the guard again, who was staring at her in question.

"I shall be right down, thank you," Twilight said as professionally as she could, the guard nodded and disappeared. Twilight looked herself over one more time on the mirror before trotting out the door and towards the main hall.

Celestia was waiting there, seemingly doing nothing but that. She turned towards Twilight as she entered the hall, Twilight trotted up to the Princess and nuzzled her which Celestia returned.

"Nervous?" Celestia asked.

"A little bit," Twilight understated.

"Don't be," Celestia assured "I'm sure everyone will love you."

"I know but I just wish I didn't have to do this alone."

Celestia smirked slightly "well... As a matter of fact, you won't be."

Twilights ears perked up "I won't?"

Celestia shook her head "your brother is assigning you a personal guard who will accompany you everywhere you go."

Twilight's ears drooped back down "oh," she said "so some stone-faced guard huh?"

Celestia openly laughed, which set Twilight's cheeks ablaze.

"Not that I mind!" Twilight quickly said "I appreciate the idea! Really!"

Celestia smothered her giggles as best she could "don't worry Twilight," she said "Shining Armour has arranged for someone a bit more familiar."

"Familiar?" Twilight said "Who?"

~~*~~

Flash Sentry adjusted his plumed helmet, he hadn't worn one in two years after all. When he had arrived in Vanhoover he had switched out his warm leather armour for the more traditional golden plate armour of the Royal Guard. The Snowhawk cape was still fastened to his neck and it fluttered in the wind as the chariot made it's decent.

The sight of Canterlot set Flash's chest a flutter, he had missed the city he realized. It was his home despite how cruelly it had treated him, he was eager to walk the marble-paved streets again. The chariot dipped again and flew directly towards the Royal Palace, they landed in the courtyard, the wheels rattling against the stone ground.

Flash immediately hopped off the chariot, giving a quick thanks and salute to his drivers, he knew how uncomfortable the job could be. He trotted quickly up to the grand entrance, Flash noticed that he was getting a few stares from the usually stoic Palace Guard, probably due to his Snowhawk cape he surmised.

Flash entered the Palace and immediately spotted Captain Shining Armour waiting, he saluted and Shining saluted back before offering his hoof to Flash.

"I trust your doing well, soldier? I hear horror stories about Fort Snowhawk." Shining Armour said.

Flash shook the Captain's hoof, still intimidated by the officer "Oh it's harsh sir but you learn a lot."

Shining nodded, dropping Flash's hoof "I understand, Snowhawk blue looks good on you though. I was trained in Fort Phoenix myself." Shining noticed the look on Flash's face "does that bother you?"

Flash smiled awkwardly "sorry sir, Commander White Blizzard insists on training us to hate Phoenix's"

Captain Armour chuckled "trust me, I understand, you should hear some of the things they say about Snowhawk's in the south," Shining shook his head at the memory "but anyway, you must be wondering why your here."

Flash nodded "your letter said I was being reassigned to... Princess Twilight Sparkle... I'm still a bit confused on the whole matter."

"Yes, I suppose you deserve an explanation," Shining Armour said "two weeks ago, due to a spell and other subsequent events, my sister, Twilight Sparkle, was transformed into an Alicorn and subsequently was crowned a Princess of Equestria."

Flash blinked "that's it?"

"I know, I don't know much about what happened either, you'll have to ask Twilight."

"Twilight?" Flash visibly brightened "she's here?"

At the Captains look, Flash tried to hide his elation "uh... Sir?"

Shining grunted "yes, she's here, and she is your charge. Over the next few weeks Twilight will be travelling across Equestria to each major city in turn, making appearances, attending dinners and parties, your mission is to protect her with every inch of your being, with your life. Not a scratch is to befall my sister, AM I UNDERSTOOD SOLDIER!" Shining bellowed.

"YES, SIR!" Flash yelled back, pounding his chest.

"Good," Shining said "now, let's go meet Twilight and get her on her way."

Captain Armour turned around and led Flash towards the main hall, up the wide stairs they went, every step Flash's anticipation was growing. Until....

Twilight turned just as Flash crested the top of the stairs, and she broke out in a smile.

"Flash!" Twilight exclaimed, trotting up to the stallion and giving him a warm hug "it's so good to see you!"

Flash returned the hug-lightly and reserved as both Princess Celestia and Captain Armour were watching closely-before breaking away.

"It's great to see you too," Flash said back, a smile breaking on his face "you look great," he said. Flash stared a bit uncomfortably at Twilight's new wings... They were beautiful.

Twilight giggled a bit, ruffling her feathers slightly "yeah, this must all be a bit overwhelming."

Flash nodded "a bit," he said "I hope I can get an explanation later on?"

Twilight nodded with a smile "you'll get the full story," she turned to Celestia "but I think we need to get going?"

The Princess nodded "the train is awaiting your arrival, Trottingham shall be your first stop, then you'll proceed to Fillydelphia, Manehatten, Baltimare, Las Pegasus, Vanhoover, and finish with Cloudsdale."

Flash whistled "This is one long trip," he said.

"Indeed," Celestia confirmed "which is why you should both be on your way."

"Of course!" Twilight said "come on Flash! We have a train to catch!" Twilight set off at a gallop and left Flash stumbling to catch up.

"Do you think she can handle this?" Shining Armour asked.

"I have faith in her," Celestia said back "in both of them."

~~*~~

The stallion blended well with the dirty wall of the alleyway, due to his brown leather armour padding and his like-coloured cloak. Unlike his companion who practically glowed in his bright white cloak, suit, and golden fur.

"So I get this necklace for you, and I'm in?" The one in brown said.

"Yes," the one in white said back "be quiet and be discreet, nopony should know you were there."

"Simple." Brown said.

"You seem confident." White said back.

"Why wouldn't I be?" Brown responded, smiling under his deep hood "I'm the best at what I do."

Chapter 7- Riding On A Crazy Train

Chapter 7- Riding on a Crazy Train

The sky had taken on a steely grey colour as the winter rolled in, white flakes fell gently to the ground with little to no wind to impede their progress. On occasion the white flakes would mingle with black ones that spewed forth from the train, the journey had taken the train the long way around Mt. Equestria. Snaking it's way around towards the north side where Trottingham lay in wait.

"And then the wings just appeared?" Flash asked incredulously.

"Yeah, I know it's a lot to swallow," Twilight admitted sheepishly.

"Becoming a Princess just like that..." Flash shook his head and laughed "and here I am just hoping to to get promoted to Sargent before I retire."

Twilight giggled "You'll get there, speaking of which, tell me what you've been up to?"

"Well, I was redeployed to Fort Snowhawk as you know," Flash said, patting his blue cape "and that was really just two years of standing out in the freezing cold, it was really boring... Thanks for writing by the way, it was one of the few bright points when I was up there."

Twilight felt her cheeks burn, but she didn't know why. She glanced out the window at the bleach white landscape.

"Have you ever been to Trottingham?" Twilight asked "it has one of the most distinct local cultures in Equestria."

"Nah, I've only really been to Cloudsdale and Canterlot," Flash said "and Vanhoover, but that was just to get my equipment and head to Snowhawk."

Twilight hummed "and you grew up in Cloudsdale I assume?"

"No, I grew up in-" Canterlot, as a low life thief "Manehatten, with my parents."

"And your brother," Twilight added for him, Flash felt panic hit him like a hot poker, this was a subject that he was not prepared for.

"Yeah," Flash said, trying to think of a way to change the subject but Twilight was too quick for him.

"It's been bothering me since you got back to Canterlot, are you ready to talk about it?" Twilight asked.

"I... Uh... Well..." Flash stuttered, his mind scrambling for something to say. He remembered back in the day, doing jobs with his brother, when Flash had to fool somepony over they would scout them out, prepare the story, create the character. Flash was no good at improvising and he feared it would drag him under at any moment.

"It's just... We're friends," Twilight said, looking at Flash with those big purple eyes "and I feel like we shouldn't keep things from one another, especially if we're going to be spending the better part of two months together."

Think think think think think Flash, think of something, anything! Your brother was jealous of your uncle and you sided with the uncle! No that's dumb.... You stole money from your brother? That's almost as bad as the truth, what about your brother stole money from you? Not bad but it puts my brother in a bad light.... And me as well uhhhhhhhhhhhh, buck

"....I'd still rather not talk about it," Flash said weakly "but... How about I tell you when we get to Manehatten? I'll introduce you to my family there."

What the buck are you saying Flash? Stop.

"Okay," Twilight said cheerfully, her tone filled Flash with dread and regret. He had told bigger lies, of course, but as always he felt a stone of self disgust settle in his gut, but this time it seemed to be larger and heavier. It seemed the guilt would grow every time he looked at Twilight, and she looked at him with her beautiful lavender eyes...

Snap out of it Flash, He chastised himself, you have to figure out how in Equestria your going to introduce Twilight to a family that doesn't exist.

The train pulled around the mountain, covered in a even frosting of snow that matched the landscape. Down the slop nestled in the shadow of Mt. Equestria was Trottingham, a large collection of two-story and three-story buildings made out of the local dark mahogany wood, with the occasional stone estate mixed in. The settlement was surrounded in dense mahogany trees in which the livelyhood of Trottingham came from, the entire city created a dark smoky cloud of wood smoke that battled with the snow for what colour the sky was going to be, it was a stalemate.

The locomotive announced it's arrival with screeching wheels and a long whistle, it slowed and stopped perfectly placed in front of the platform. With a burst bursts of steam the doors magically opened, allowing the nobly inclined passengers to step off and haughtily head for the nearest high-class hotel to get put of the cold. Among them were two decisively more humble beings who headed down the main road, towards a large estate that was the homestead of The Lord of Trottingham.

Despite the amount of snowfall, it was only mildly chilly. At least by Flash's standards, the windless flurries held nothing in comparison to the arctic blizzards that Snowhawk was subject to. Twilight on the other hoof was shivering up a storm, trying to maneuver her new wings to warp around herself more snugly and conserve heat, Flash felt guilty with his snug cape. After some internal debate he unlatched his Snowhawk cape with his teeth, came closer to Twilight and threw it over her, she was startled at first but smiled her thanks, pulling the cape closer around herself.

They arrived at the lords house in a timely manner, it was wide, flat, and three storied. Two Royal Guards sporting Capes of Trottingham (the likeness of a large silver tree on a dark brown backround) they recognized Twilight and one of their own immediately and opened the gate for them.

"Lord Forest is awaiting your arrival your majesty," one of them said to Twilight, who seemed awkward at the title but thanked the stallion none the less.

They crossed the simple courtyard swiftly and entered into the warm manor, Twilight returning Flash's cape with a smile and a faint blush. The inside of the estate was grand, polished marble floors reflected the light from the golden chandeliers that hung from the mosaic ceiling that depicted images of several armed stallions chasing strange horned Ponies with long slender legs. A pair of winding steps lead up to a second floor alcove where the lord of the house would undoubtedly be waiting, with nopony there to tell them otherwise Flash and Twilight climbed the steps.

Up the stairs was a large flat room, with two long dining tables covered in platters and bowls, a twin pair of stained glassed widowed flanked the throne that had the Trottingham Silver Tree glowing with light from outdoors.

Lord Forest Green sat on a mahogany throne, flanked by two other stallions and with a smaller throne next to him, he was a dark green Earth Pony stallion with a brown mane that matched the dark wood that Trottigham was known for, his eyes were an icy blue. He wore a brown tunic that was trimmed with silver, with the insignia of Trottingham emblazoned upon it.

Twilight approached him "Lord Forest," she acknowledged, giving him a small nod, Flash doing the same.

Lord Forest frowned "is that anyway to greet a lord in his own house? A nice low bow I think," he said with a distinctive Trottingham accent.

Flash frowned in turn, Twilight was a Princess and easily outranked a lord, even one that controlled a prominent city like Trottingham. On the other hoof, this was Lord Forests House and any guest should respect him and his wishes.

Twilight apparently agreed with the latter and bent her front legs to swoop into a bow with Flash following her lead, this put a pleased smile on Lord Forests lips.

"You see? Simple," he said, as if rubbing it in "now, you must have come here for a good reason, what might that be, hm?"

Twilight was keeping a pleasant face on while Flash screamed inside at the disrespect being shown right now, he marvelled at how Twilight kept her calm. She was playing the game well.

"As you know, my ascension to Princess was only recent. Princess Celestia feels like a public relations tour through the major cities in Equestria would help the nation adjust to this new change, and we have decided to start with Trottingham," Twilight explained.

Lord Forest hummed "oh really?" He said "and what are your plans for Trottingham? Do tell."

Twilights ears drooped and Flash's heart dropped slightly, she had a plan right? She always had a plan, she would just trot into a Lord's House without ideas in her head?

Lord Forest put a charming smile on and came off his throne, he approached Twilight and snaked his leg in hers and began to lead her back towards his throne. Flash felt a stab of pure wrath hit his heart and he almost acted on it but was caught by his own sense and a death-stare one of Lord Forest's stallions, a large imposing male with a steel armoured vest and scars across his face.

"I had a thought," Lord Forest was saying "that you should do public appearances, let the people know you are here, say... A parade of sorts. A quick ride through the streets of Trottingham, and of course there are the schools that temper the young minds of the city, then there are the workers that harvest our signature Black Wood Trees."

"That's a great idea!" Twilight exclaimed, brightening up immediately "can you organize those?"

"Of course, of course," Forest assured, as he and Twilight reached the front of his throne "I am just glad to help you, since your so clearly unprepared and unskilled in this area" he said, giving Twilight the nastiest smile Flash had ever seen and his eyes searching for a reaction.

Outside of a flick of her ear, Twilight gave him none "thank you, Lord Forest, you are too kind."

"Yes, I am," Lord Forest said in satisfaction "I shall have you escorted to some guest quarters, you must be tired from your journey, I shall send somepony to you in the morn for breakfast and the beginning of your tour of Trottingham."

Lord Forest slipped away from Twilight and sat back down on his throne, he nodded to the scarred stallion that guarded him who then gestured for Twilight to follow him. Flash brought up the rear and had one last backwards glance at Lord Forest's smugly satisfied face before Flash descended the stairs.

The scarred stallion led them through a side door in the main foyer, into a long hall with multiple doors, they were led to the fourth one that oriented to reveal a large bedroom with a single plush bed. Twilight thanked the stallion for his help, who in turn nodded silently gave one last death glare to Flash and exited.

Flash turned to Twilight as the door clocked shut, meaning to voice his anger at Lord Forest's behaviour but stopped as he saw the tears beginning to well from her eyes.

Flash caught her in his arms, pulling off his helmet and holding her tight. Twilight sobbed into Flash's shoulder with ready tears, while he did his best to sooth her, despite not knowing what was causing the problem.

"What's wrong?" He finally asked.

"Lord Forest," Twilight sobbed "he was... He just... I.... Why?"

Flash frowned "he was pushing you Twilight, he wanted to break your confidence, humiliate you in public, he probably didn't like that someone as young as you became Princess, so he wants to discredit you."

"What am I suppose to do?" Twilight said, steadying her breathing but leaving her eyes damp.

"You can't back down, next time he speaks to you like that you have to confront him," Flash said.

"But..." Twilight began "this tour is about public relations, about building bonds between me and the ponies of Equestria, if I go and insult Lord Forest where will that get me?"

"You cannot just ignore his insults!" Flash exclaimed.

"I'll have to," Twilight said "...thank you for your help, Flash Sentry."

Flash extended one of his wings and wiped the tears from Twilights cheeks "only doing my job, your majesty," he said in joke.

Twilight blushed and pushed Flash away from her a bit abruptly, she turned away from him "well, yes, I think I'll head to sleep now and I'm sure you can find a bed in the town barracks or something, goodnight."

Flash blinked, why was she acting like this? Had he done something wrong? He had only tried to comfort her and give some honest advice...

"I-I'm sorry, your majesty," Flash said uncertainly "it was not my place, please forgive me, I shall assure you are safe here and then retire."

Twilight didn't respond, merely listened to the click of the door, she sighed.

What is the feeling in my chest? Twilight asked herself I don't understand.

Chapter 8- Moving On Up

Chapter 8- Moving On Up

Flash yawned widely; he guarded Twilight's room until very first light before quietly retiring to the Trottingham Guard Barracks for a quick one hour nap. Flash quietly hoped that his lost sleep would be made up on the train if else he would spend the entire trip in a state of sleepiness, a situation attractive to no one.

Flash reached Twilight’s door and knocked.

"Twilight? Its morning, I'm pretty sure Lord Forest has breakfast set out for you, Twilight?"

There came no answer so Flash pushed the door open quietly, flooding Twilight's room with Celestia's glorious light. Taking a step in Flash immediately banged his hoof into something metal, with clenched teeth and hissed curses he looked down to see that he had stumped into his own helmet, having left it in Twilight's room last night. Grumpily Flash hooked the helmet on the special hook on his side and fully entered Twilight's room, the mare herself was asleep on her bed, blanket splayed out over the middle of her body, mane in disarray and a small blissful smile on her lips.

Having seen her in peaceful sleep Flash felt a bit bad for having to wake her up, he steeled himself and gently shook Twilight back and forth. No response, he called her name, still no response, frowning Flash went over to the window, sunlight making through only a crack in the curtain. Flash pulled the curtains fully open, completely filling the room with bright light.

Twilight's content smile vanished instantly; she groaned and covered her eyes with her wings. Flash smiled and poked her in the side, getting another groan.

"You have to get up now Twilight," Flash said "you need to eat breakfast and be ready for your public appearances today."

"Why so early?" Twilight asked from behind her wings.

"Because that's the way things are," Flash said "I'll leave so you can freshen yourself up."

Twilight groaned in response, rolling over and falling right out of bed.

"I'm up," she said simply.

Twilight took a quick bath and straightened her mane and coat, it was her feathers that took some tending to, and she still wasn't completely used to them being there. After a few attempts to run the brush through her feathers she sighed in frustration, then a thought occurred to her.

"Flash! I need a favour!" She called.

"Sure, what do you need?" Flash asked, stepping back inside the room.

Twilight levitated her preening brush over to him, pointing to her extended wings.

"You know how to preen right?" She asked sheepishly.

"Uh yeah, but..." Then it dawned on him "you want me to preen you?" Flash asked, heat rushing to his face.

"Yeah! You’re a Pegasus, you should know all about this right?" Twilight asked,

"Well yes but... You don't know what two Pegasi preening means do you?" Flash asked, blushing furiously.

"No, why? What does it mean?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Um, two Pegasi preening is usually proceeds the two of them.... Mating," Flash said.

Twilight's face lit up like the sun itself "oh my Celestia! I didn't mean it like that I swear! It's just I don't really know how to preen! And my feathers are a mess so I thought 'hey Flash is a Pegasus, I beg he knows how!' But I never new it was mean for... That!"

"It's okay," Flash said awkwardly "but... Uh, do you think you can handle it yourself?"

"Yeah, I can figure it out!" Twilight squeaked, Flash left quickly and tried to cool down his burning face.

After a minute or two, Twilight emerged from her room, preened and primed to perfection. She offered Flash a small smile and lead the way towards the dining hall, Lord Forest awaited them there, and he sat at the end of the main table with no food in front of him.

"Ah! Princess Twilight! I began to worry that you would not join me but it seems you simply do not value punctuality like me," Lord Forest said nastily "come, sit down so we can eat."

Twilight didn't respond but Flash could see the anger and frustration that she was holding at bay, Twilight sat down next to The Lord and swiftly they were served plates of fine wheat, oats, and fruit.

"So, Lady Twilight," Lord Forest said casually, taking only minuscule bites of his breakfast "are you prepared for today? It shall be busy."

"I'm really excited to get to know your city!" Twilight said warmly "I've heard so many things about Trottingham already!"

"All good I hope," Forest Green said with a chuckle "this is a place that accepts only the best, like Canterlot or Cloudsdale, something you probably don't understand having spend so much time in a backwater."

The insult took Twilight slightly off guard; the hurt was allowed to be seen this time, but only for a moment. Never the less Lord Forest leaned back, clearly satisfied, from his position by the door Flash silently smouldered. Clearly Forest Green was trying to break Twilight's confidence, to what end he didn't know but he did know that he couldn't stand much more of it.

They finished their breakfast in silence, Lord Forest wearing a satisfied smile the entire time. Once they cleared their plates Lord Forest stood up and gestured for Twilight to do the same.

"The townsponies should have gathered by now, for your arrival parade," he said "we mustn't be late."

With Lord Forest and Twilight in the lead and Flash following along with two Trottingham Guards they made their way away from the dining hall and towards the main hall, already they could hear the distant rumble of a crowd.

They exited the manor, in the courtyard was a simple chariot made of Darkwood, two of Lord Forest's guards were attached to the front. Forest Green climbed into the chariot and helped Twilight in afterwards; they stood side by side as Lord Forest ordered the front gates to be opened.

They were greeted by a round of hoof-stomps and cheering, the Trottingham citizenry lined the sides of the street and greeted them warmly. Clearly they had no intentions of making Twilight feel unwelcome, unlike their Lord, Flash thought to himself, as flower petal and confetti began to rain down on them from the tallest buildings.

Their tour was short, only half and hour or so through the main street of Trottingham before they looped back and returned to the Lord's manor. Three stallions awaited them, or at least Lord Forest, including the scarred one that had accompanied The Lord the day before.

"Ah yes, my apologies your majesty," Lord Forest said, with a hint of sarcasm. "I'm afraid my lordly duties will distract me for most of your visit, but my steward, Ink Pot, will show you to your destinations." The Lord gestured to one of the stallions, a bony, spectacled colt with grey fur and a brown mane.

"I understand," Twilight said. "Have a.... Productive day."

Forest chuckled. "Oh I will my lady, I will," he said, before following his scarred companion back into the manor.

Ink Pot cleared his throat as the chariot was pulled away and the Trottigham guards matched off.

"We should get moving your majesty, there are five schools that have been selected to host you for only an hour or so each, then we are to meet with Trottinghams top lumberjacks and taskmasters over at Pinemoon Mill," Ink Pot listed off.

Twilight gave him a smile, clearly impressed by his organization skills.

"Lead the way then," she said.

Ink Pot took them away from the manor, towards the north-eastern quarter of the city. There they arrived at a long two-storied brick building with an Equestrian flag flying high and proud just outside, thy went inside and were immediately greeted by a sharply dressed stallion with the rough hair that all male teachers seem to have.

"Ah! Your majesty!" He said, bowing low. "I'm Professor White Chalk, the Headmaster here and allow me to be the first to say that it is an honour to play host to Equestria's newest Princess."

"The pleasure is all mine!" Twilight said kindly, Ink Pot cleared his throat.

"We're on a schedule Headmaster, could we move thing along?" He said.

"Of course, of course," Professor White Chalk said, a bit flustered. "This way!"

The headmaster lead them up a set of stair onto the top floor, from there they came to the school library. Inside a group of forty or so colts and fillies sat quietly bar some hushed whispers, they hadn't seen them yet.

"All top of their class," White Chalk said. "They'll be a good crowd for you, your majesty, take it away whenever you’re ready."

Twilight nodded and soared Flash a wink before entering the library, there was a series of gasps, heavy whispering and shushing as Twilight took her place in front of her youthful crowd and smiled.

"Hello there," she said warmly. "If you didn't already know, I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle, the newest princess of Equestria, only coronated a few months ago. I would like to start by saying that education and the development of Equestria's youth has always been important to me and with my status as a Princess I hope to make your school and others like it all the more better."

Twilight paused "any questions?" She asked.

Nearly every hoof went up; Twilight giggled a little and began to answer questions.

"How did you become a Princess?"

"Through the magic of friendship of course, though that isn't the only way to become a Princess as I've learned."

"Can anypony become a Princess?"

This got a laugh from Twilight "yes actually, but I would suggest making it a goal."

On and on it went, with questions of varying intelligence. They finished that school with minutes to spare and moved on, from there is was a pattern of arrival, introduction, small speech, and answering questions through five schools worth of children.

They walked out of the last school in confidence, Twilight had handled each group of students with equal ability, a fact that Flash complimented her on.

Twilight smiled "I often host study groups for the children in Ponyville, you just need to know how to keep their attention."

"Still, I don't think I could keep up with the endless questions," Flash said.

"We must continue on," Ink Pot cut in "Pinemoon Mill is an hour’s walk from here and I do not want to cut into the taskmaster's tight schedule."

"Right, of course," Twilight said, slightly miffed about being interrupted.

Ink Pot lead them to the north edge of the city, where the building began to dwindle and were replaced by the tall dark trees of Trottingham's Black Wood Forest. They followed a path into the tree line and arrived by a river that ran in a westerly direction, a large lumber mill put next to the river, it wheel pushed by the current and moving the mill's saw blade perpetually.

A group of around sixty or so Ponies stood by the mill, they were all large Earth Pony stallions, all with large practiced muscles and most with even larger rough bears covering their chin. As Twilight approached the lumberjack turned an appraising eye towards her, with looks that Flash didn't like one bit, he resigned to giving his best death stare to the stallions twice his size.

"Ah.... Hi!" Twilight said "you must be the lumberjacks I've heard so much about!"

"Aye," one of them grunted "and you’re the new Princess eh?"

"That I am," Twilight answered, steeling herself "and I have say, your line of work is one of the most important in Equestria, Dark Wood is well sought after all over the world for building materials and the like, its ponies like all of you that provide Equestria with its bounty."

This got a few small grins "that's very kind of you, your majesty," one said "it's not often that we're appreciated."

Twilight smiled back "well I for one know that the lumber industry is one of the most important operations in Equestria."

A hoof came up "I have a question," the lumberjack said.

"Go on," Twilight said.

"Hearing all this talk about us labourers is on thing but what are you plannin' on doing for us?" The worker asked.

"I have a few ideas," Twilight answered "such as implementing a system of instant re-plantation, meaning that after a tree is cut down a sapling will be planted to replace it, this way you don't have to constantly expand the forest artificially."

There was a series of mutterings but mostly positive, Flash smiled. Despite what Lord Forest said, Twilight was shaping up to be an excellent Princess and bring about great change for the better in Equestria.

The lumberjacks were soon called back to work, but went away satisfied and impressed with their new Princess. Twilight had gained visible confidence in herself; no longer did she internally question her ability to forge positive relations with who were now her subjects.

"I think you did great," Flash stated.

"Thanks," Twilight said "I'm just happy that ponies seem to be accepting me as a Princess."

"Well why wouldn't they?" Flash said "I for one think you'll make a great Princess."

Twilight's smile widened and a blush came to her cheeks. They traveled back to Lord Forest's manor in a happy silence, at least between Flash and Twilight; Ink Pot just wasn't much of a talker. Lord Forest awaited them in the grand hall, seated on his chair once more, seemingly doing none of the lordly duties that he had mentioned before.

"Ah, Princess Twilight," Forest greeted. "I trust that your visits went well?"

"They did, perfect in fact," Twilight said, a hint of boasting in her tone that made Flash smirk and Lord Forest frown. "I think that the townsponies are open to the idea of a new Princess."

"Really?" Lord Forest said, cocking an eyebrow. "Because, you see, I heard different. I heard whispers amongst the townsfolk, they called you incompetent, inexperienced, that you only gained your title because Celestia favoured you... Just rumours of course," he said nastily, Twilight's smirk disappeared in an instant, and Lord Forest moved off his throne and approached them.

"In fact I heard some things about your family," he continued. "Sparkle is not a noble name after all, and some rumours floated around about your father, how he was never really satisfied with one mare, how you were sired by another, that Princess Twilight Sparkle is a filthy bastar-"

Lord Forest never hand a chance to finish the insult as Flash stepped forward and placed his blade to the soft flesh of Forest Green's neck.

"You will not finish that sentence! You have insulted Princess Twilight one too many times!" Flash barked, Lord Forest turned a wrathful gaze towards Flash.

"How dare you!" He bellowed. "I am Forest Green! Lord of Trottingham and this is my house! I could have you stripped of your rank and fed to a pack of Timber Wolves! Now lower your blade you filthy peasant!"

"Lord Forest!" Twilight interjected. "You will calm down this instant and cease threatening my guard!"

"Calm down?!" Forest Green snapped. "This...Traitor has insulted me and threatened my life! I will not tolerate this in my own house!"

"And you have done nothing but insult me and try to provoke me my entire visit," Twilight retorted sternly. "I tolerated it but you have gone too far this time, Princess Celestia will hear of your disrespect, Flash, we're leaving."

Flash spared Lord Forest one more angry glare before sheathing his sword and following after Twilight. Forest Green stood smouldering in his spot, furious to his highest degree.

"Not all of the nobility are eager for another princess! Remember that!" Lord Forest called after them.

The pair trotted to the train station in silence, they boarded the first train to Fillydelphia. The conductor recognized Twilight and offered them a private car that was used for nobility, Twilight accepted and they went into the first class car.

"That was really reckless of you," Twilight said. "What Forest said was true and he would've done had I not stepped in."

"I couldn't just let him insult you like that," Flash said solemnly, looking down. "I'm sorry if I damaged your efforts, I understand if you want to punish me for my actions."

The next thing he knew Twilight had wrapped her forelegs around Flash's neck and squeezed him affectionately.

"Thanks for standing up for me," she said softly.

Flash felt his face burn but hugged Twilight back none the less.

"Any time," he said.

The hug lasted for a minute before Twilight realized she had clung a little bit too long, she pulled away from Flash quickly with a burning face and confusion in her eyes, she cleared her throat awkwardly.

"Fillydelphia isn't far away, we should get ready to meet with Lord Thunder Bolt," Twilight said quickly before moving to a nearby seat.

Flash looked on in confusion, Twilight was acting odd and he didn't know why. The train passed by Dark Wood Forest and pulled out of Trottingham's fief and out of the reach of Lord Forest.

Chapter 9- An Attempt At Theft

Chapter 9~ An Attempt At Theft

The sun was begging to dip towards the horizon when Fillydelphia came into view. Compared to Trottingham, Fillydalphia was much larger and had a lively look about it, with the Skykill River running through the city, Fillydelphia had once been a trade hub for inland Equestria, merchants from the south would traverse the river to trade in silks, fine wines and other luxury items.

"Not anymore though," Twilight explained. "Once more efficient land and sea routes were established, the river became obsolete and Fillydelphia was put in a bit of a tight spot."

"How are they doing nowadays?" Flash asked, admiring the tall building that were silhouetted against the setting sun.

"Well recently the city has been making a comeback, financial, insurance and other office jobs are flourishing in the city, it's a great place to be if your a businesspony."

"Well, I'm not," Flash said with a smile. "But I've heard that Fillydelphia can be a rough city, especially at night, promise you'll stick close to me okay?"

"Alright, worry-wart," Twilight teased, nudging Flash in the side. "Come on, we'll be stopping soon, if we hurry we can catch Lord Thunder Bolt before he goes to bed."

The train screeched and slowed and pulled into Fillydelphia station, the doors opened and Twilight and Flash exited the train into a quickly darkening city. A Fillydelphian guard was at the station, adorned in silver chain mail and helmet with a black plume. A white Fillydelphia cape on his back, a black bolt of lighting decorating the cape.

"Excuse me," Twilight said politely, the Bolt Guard turned and his eyes widened and he dropped into a low bow.

"Princess Twilight!" He said. "My apologies! We hadn't expected you this early, had we known there would have been a proper welcome!"

Twilight smiled awkwardly "it's okay, I should have sent a letter ahead of me, just lead us to Lord Thunder Bolt's manor please."

"Of course!" The Guard said, rising from his bow. "Just follow me your majesty."

"I'm still not used to that," Twilight whispered to Flash.

"You will," Flash whispered back.

The Bolt Guard lead them through the narrow streets of Fillydelphia, the sun had disappeared behind the horizon and their path was illuminated only by hanging lanterns of magical fire. Occasionally Flash would spot movement in the many alleyways, poor and drunk low life's eyed them, sizing up the risk, luckily the sight of a Royal Guard and a Bolt Guard scared off any attackers, it put a pain in Flash's chest to think he had once been counted among those criminals.

Lord Thunder's manor came into view, it was tall and made of grey stone. Banners depicting the sigil of House Bolt hung from from its walls, the two Bolt Guards that flanked the door bowed and opened the doors and allowed them into the warm and bright interior of Lord Thunder Bolt's manor.

The floor was polished and bright, comforting braziers burned bright along the stone walls. Several pillars were lined together, carved into them were depictions of Fillydelphia in the past, rest ships pulling into the port and happy merchants trading in precious goods from all corners of the world.

Lord Thunder Bolt sat on a silver throne, flanked by two Bolt Guards who were adorned in more heavy silver plate armour and a full-face helmet. Lord Thunder was a large Unicorn, with a grey and a jet black mane, his eyes were the colour of silver, he was adorned in a simple cloth tunic decorated in silver inlaid.

"Princess Twilight!" Lord Thunder exclaimed, jumping off his throne. "Your early!"

Twilight started to stoop into a bow but Lord Thunder caught her before she could complete it.

"No need for that!" Thunder Bolt said, with a hearty laugh. "I'm not some fucking snob from Manehatten! Your in Fillydelphia my girl! No need to scrap yourself on the floor for me!"

Twilight's eyes widened at the Lord's foul language but smiled warmly as she raised herself back up.

"I appreciate that Lord Thunder, I'm glad we can talk like equals," Twilight said.

"Of course! Some of these other Lords think themselves like the Two Princesses! Well... Three now! But here in Fillydelphia I'm equal to the lowest worker! Unlike that fucking priss Lord Iron Hill in Manehatten!"

Twilight giggled "you don't like Manehatten?"

"Peh bunch of prissy party-obsessed inbreds if you ask me," Lord Thunder said.

"I hope you don't mind my guard then," Twilight said with a laugh, making Flash's heart skip a beat. "He's from Manehatten."

"Is he?" Thunder Bolt said, eyeing Flash before cracking a smile. "Well if he's tough enough to survive Fort Snowhawk then he's alright by me!"

"It's late, I'll have my guard get you a room, we can discuss the details of your visit in the morn."

"Thank you for your hospitality Lord Thunder," Twilight said before following one of Lord Thunder's personal guards through a side door and into a long hallway, the Bolt Guard lead them to a large room that was lavishly furnished.

Twilight thanked the guard who nodded silently and left, Flash checked the windows and door to make sure they were secure as Twilight made herself comfortable.

"Lord Thunder's a lot... Different from Lord Forest, don't you think?" Twilight said.

"Yeah, but in a good way," Flash said. "But I don't know about all that swearing."

"He's just eccentric," Twilight laughed. "I'm enjoying Fillydelphia already."

"Well don't get too comfortable, we'll be leaving for Balimare in two days," Flash said. "Now get some rest."

Twilight nodded and entered her bed as Flash left the room.

~~*~~

The wind pulled at the Thieves brown cloak and ruffled his grey feathers, he sat at the peak of a tall office building that stood in sight of the lord's manor. Through a window the Thief could see a purple Alicorn, his mark, moving around in the room with the red-jewelled amulet that was prize firmly clasped around her neck.

The Princess moved and was replaced by her personal guard, and the Thief frowned. Something about that particular guard struck a cord of familiarity with the Thief, but he quickly dismissed it and refocused on the task at hoof, that guard was the obstacle to get around, he was with the Princess almost every moment of the day, somehow the Thief had to get him away from the Princess.

The Thief shivered, the claws of winter still held on in spite of the approaching spring and the Thief could not spend the night outside in the quickly dropping temperature. Spreading his wings the Thief took to the sky and gilded to the ground, not willing to draw attention to himself by flying high above the city.

It took not three minutes but the Thief found a satisfactory inn, it was a wooden, two-storied tavern and inn combination that had obviously seen better days, the entire exterior was wet and rotted in places, crusted over with salt from the sea, obviously a place for cheap spirits and cheap rooms. A sign hung outside the inn, it depicted a smiling Gryphon holding a claw-full of cards, one of which was turned to reveal the card to be an ace of spades, the sign read 'The Gambling Gryphon' on it.

The Thief opened the front door, his nose being assaulted by the sent of ale, vomit, and wood smoke. Fighting back a cough the Thief entered the Gambling Gryphon, the tavern was only dimly lit by a roaring fireplace and was packed with many rough-looking characters, Earth Ponies mostly but with quite a few Gryphons and even a few Saddle-Arabians who stood out with their distinctive turbans and other assorted headdresses.

The Thief turned quite a few heads when he entered, most dismissed him immediately as unimportant or they noticed the amour and decided to not get involved. The Thief sat down at the bar and the innkeeper approached him, he was a simple-looking Earth Pony with a light green coat and a grey mane and beard.

"Fancy an ale traveller?" He asked.

"Just a small one," the Thief answered.

The innkeeper nodded and went to go fetch a small cup, the Thief took this moment to observe the other tenants. Workers mostly, probably employed at the local port or shipping yard, the Gryphons, Saddle-Arabians and other outsiders were probably a mixture of travellers, vagabonds, and mercenaries, suddenly an idea popped into the Thief's head.

The innkeeper returned with a small iron cup full of cheap ale, the Thief thanked him and sipped at the intoxicant. The ale was disgusting, barely processed, it scalded the Thief's throat and left a sour taste in his mouth, still drink was drink and the Thief downed the rest in a single gulp. After some thought the Thief hailed over the innkeeper again who offered a refill but the Thief refused, looking for information rather than alcohol.

"Tell me, do you know any good local mercenaries?" The Thief asked casually, making the innkeeper look very uncomfortable.

"Windclaw could help you," he said, pointing to a dangerous-looking Gryphon who sat in a far corner. "Don't try to stiff his pay though, or he'll gut you himself."

The Thief nodded his thanks and left the bar, he slipped through the crowd with practiced ease and sat right down at the table that the Gryphon mercenary was sitting at. Windclaw eyed the newcomer from under a deep green hood, he was adorned in armour made from animal hide and wrapped in a green cloak, a crossbow was slung over his back and a curved scimitar was at his side.

"Windclaw?" The Thief asked.

"Maybe," Windclaw said, his yellow eyes reflecting the light of the fireplace. "Who's asking?"

"Someone who would hire you," The Thief said, Windclaw hummed and looked the stranger over taking note of his amour.

"Guildmember huh?" Windclaw said. "What's someone like you want with someone like me?"

"I'm on a job and I find myself in need of some extra hooves," the Thief said. "And in my line of work, extra hoofs are well paid for."

"Well I can't give you extra hoofs, but extra claws are just as good," Windclaw said, grinning. "Although, I don't come cheap."

"You'll get paid, but I need the job done first," the Thief said.

"Fine, what's the job?" Windclaw asked.

"Well, in case you don't know Fillydelphia is playing host to Equestria's newest crowded Princess, young purple Alicorn, wings and all, she's currently staying the the Lord's manor," the Thief said.

"Yes, yes, I'm aware," Windclaw. "So what? You want me to gut her? Or just teach her a lesson?"

"No," the Thief almost snapped.

"Oh that's right," Windclaw. "You Guild-types don't like getting dirty, shame."

"Anyway," the Thief said, changing the subject. "That Princess has something that I want, but she also has a personal guard that doesn't like to take personal time."

"So we need to take the guard out of the equation," Windclaw said.

"Yes, but not in the way your thinking," the Thief said. "The Princess is going to be making several different public appearances tomorrow, at your own discretion I want you to attempt to attack her but here's the trick, you've got to purposely fail and then give chase so that guard of hers will follow you, with him gone I can slip in, grab my prize, and leave."

"Interesting," Windbeak said. "And how will you know where she'll go once I attack?"

"Logically they would rush he'd back to the Lord's manor, if not I'm going to be following her around anyway so if she goes anywhere different I'll be right behind."

"Curious," Windbeak said, hailing over a serving mare and getting them both drinks. "Alright, I'll do it, but I want a hundred bits."

Thief frowned "seventy," he said.

"Ninety-five," Windbeak countered.

"Eighty."

"Ninety."

"Eighty-five."

"Deal," Windbeak said and he held out his cup and the Thief met it with his own, cracking a slight smile before the two outlaws downed their intoxicants, as the Thief struggled not to choke or cough Windbeak simply licked his beak and got up from the table.

"I'll be off then, I'll need time to stalk my prey," he said.

"Don't kill her," the Thief reiterated. "If you do then you don't get paid, your a distraction."

"Yes, yes," Windbeak dismissed. "Just make sure you do pay, or you and I will have a problem."

With that Windbeak left the tavern, the Thief leaned back in his chair. He had considered all the possibilities and different outcomes, if all went well than the amulet would be his and his new life of wealth would begin, just like he had always dreamed.

The Thief got up and went over to the innkeeper, he quickly bartered the price for a small room before heading upstairs to his temporary bedding. It was a small thin room with a small nightstand, a single candle, and a small simple bedroll that was spread out on the floor, after making sure no one was around the Thief took off his cloak, satchels, and armour before rolling into bed and slipping into an only slightly restful sleep.

When he awoke the next morning the Thief quickly dressed and left the Gambling Gryphon through the decisively less-packed tavern. The morning air was crisp and cold, a fresh sheet of frozen dew frosted over the buildings, nevertheless the sun was bright in the clear sky and it warmed the Thief's cold skin.

He spread his wings and took to the sky, making sure to stick close to buildings and move from rooftop to rooftop only when he was sure no one was looking. He came in sight of the Lord's manor and sat down at the peak of his chosen building, it was early yet and the Thief doubted the Princess would begin her tour for al least another hour, the Thief wrapped himself in his cloak and waited patiently.

At some point the Thief had dosed off in the warm morning sun, when he awoke he silently cursed himself for lapsing in discipline. Nothing seemed to have moved yet though, but paranoid thoughts began to enter the Thief's head, what if he had just missed the Princess? He began silently debating wether or not to go looking for his mark when the front doors of the manor opened and his mark stepped out followed by her personal guard, several Bolt Guards and Lord Thunder Bolt himself.

The group began to walk casually down the street, heading north. Apparently Lord Thunder was taking his guest on a tour of some sort, they quickly disappeared behind a building but the Thief was quick. He gilded down to a lower level of rooftop and landed softy, he snuck to the edge of the roof and peered over, his mark was indeed simply casually strolling down the street with Lord Thunder Bolt and three guards including her own, the Thief could even overhear their conversation.

"The streets don't seem very busy," the Princess was saying.

"Not at this hour, no!" Lord Thunder laughed. "Morning rush is usually around eight, hopefully we can get our tour done before we're run over by angry commuters!"

"Hopefully," the Princess giggled. "So, what do you know about this city's history?..."

The Thief lost interest at that point, so he resigned himself to watching his mark like a hawk and stalking her like a lion. Occasionally he would glance around, looking to see if he could spot Windbeak with no avail, he chose to treat this as a good sign, that the mercenary was staying out of sight until the opportune moment.

The group continued down the street at an easy pace, the Thief didn't have to change rooftops often. Still, it had been almost a full hour of stalking his mark and the Thief hadn't spotted hide nor tail of Windbeak, doubts about the mercenary's integrity began to enter his mind, maybe he should have paid Windbeak up front? Maybe he fled? Leaving the Thief to find another way?

Just as these thoughts entered the Thief's head he spotted movement on the talk office building to his right, across the street. There he could just make out a pair of large wings folding in and a hooded head just barely peaking over the edge of the building. Windbeak, the Gryphon stared down at the small group and unstrapped his crossbow, aiming the weapon towards the Princess.

The Thief frowned, Don't kill her he thought, and he held his breath as a faint twang of Windbeak's crossbow was heard. The bolt sped through the air, passing millimetres away from the Princess's face before it skidded across the stone street, the Bolt Guards and the Princess's personal one drew their weapons and put themselves in between where Windbeak was and their charges.

"Take them both back to the manor!" The personal guard commanded. "I'll take care of the shooter!" With that he spread his orange wings and sped after Windbeak who had already turned tail.

The Thief silently cursed as the remaining guards rapidly guided the Lord Thunder and the Princess back towards the manor, his plan had backfired! Now his mark would be locked away and surrounded by Bolt Guards! Still... The obstacle of her personal guard was temporarily remedied, the Bolt Guards would be easy to slip past, but how to do it...

The Thief racked his brain as he turned around and took flight, meaning to loop back around to the Lord's manor. Suddenly an idea popped into his head, he banked left away from the manor and descended between two buildings, into an alleyway. There he found what he was looking for; an maintenance tunnel for the cities sewer system, the access cover was old and rusted over, it looked like no one had been down there in years which suited the Thief's purposes nicely.

Taking out a dagger the Thief began to chip away at the layer of rust, slowly scooping out the orange mess until he could stick his dagger through the gap and under the cover. With a quick movement the Thief popped the cover free, there was a hiss and a found stretch reached the Thief's nose, almost making him gag, a combination of feces, spoiled food, and strangely a faint sent of rotten flesh.

Taking several deep breaths the Thief lowered himself into the sewer, replacing the cover as he did so. The Thief dropped down and landed with a splash in the sludge that flowed slowly through the sewer tunnel, resisting the urge to vomit the Thief climbed out of the sludge and onto a thin walkway on the right side of the tunnel.

It was dark, the only points of light came from the access cover that the Thief had just entered through and a lit room far down the tunnel. With cautious movements the Thief made his way towards that room, when he neared it he discovered a hall that lead away from the sludge flow, quickly the Thief peered into the lit room he had been heading for originally.

The room turned out to be a pit, both the tunnel that the Thief was in and several other pipes dumbed sludge into a deep pit that lead down to a large fast-flowing river of water and feces. On the other side of the gap was another tunnel that seemed to lead the direction that the Thief was going, the problem was that another pipe above the Thief's desired route was spilling sludge in a thick disgusting waterfall.

Frowning the Thief turned around and turned into the hall he had seen before, it was short and lead to a darkened room with several empty barrels, a set of stone stairs lead down from the hall and there was another tunnel leading the direction of the manor. The Thief began to creep down the stairs but before he could reach the floor he heard voices echoing down the tunnel he was heading for, sending him scampering back up the stairs.

"Can't see a bucking thing," one voice said loudly over the sound of rushing water. "Why'd we gotta hide down 'ere anyway?"

"I told you," another voice said. "If we show our faces up there we're dead, the Talons will find us in a second, we just need to get out of the city."

"Yeah, but we can't while we're lost can we?" The original voice said.

"We're not lost," the second voice insisted.

"Uh-Huh, we've been down here for days Clear Sky," the first voice said back. "I lost count the amount of times we almost died from a rat... Or other things."

Two stallions entered the room where the Thief was hidden, one was large and muscled Earth Pony, adorned in a mix-matched set of armour and carrying a deadly battle-axe slung over his back, his companion 'Clear Sky' was a smaller Pegasus and was clad in rough leather padding, carrying several daggers on his person.

"Can't see a bucking thing in here," Clear Sky said. "Stay there, I'm going to look around for a torch or somthin' okay?"

His companion grunted and Iron Hoof moved away, going to the barrels on the far end of the room. The Thief considered his options as he watched Clear Sky move away from his partner, he could just sneak by but seeing how these two were not familiar with the sewer layout its a high possibility they could pose a problem in an escape situation, the thought of killing them made the Thief's stomach churn. As much as he disrespected the law, murder was something he'd rather avoid, that left a third option that was looking more attractive by the second, as Iron Hoof began rummaging through the barrels the Thief made up his mind.

Strapped to the Thief's back was that third solution, it was a small club, about half a meter long with small metal rivets dotting its surface. The Thief grinned and dropped down from his perch atop the stairs, right behind the larger of the two stallions with not a sound to be heard, without hesitation the club met the stallions temple and a dull thunk and the stallion collapsed, the grinning Thief putting his back to the wall and waiting.

Clear Sky must have heard the blow over the sound of rushing water because he stopped his searching and peered into the blackness where he had left his companion.

"Iron Hoof?" He called into the darkness. "You still there, mate?"

No answer came and Clear Sky drew one of his daggers, slowly advancing forward. The Thief smiled as he slipped behind the Pegasus, Clear Sky bumped into Iron Hoof's unconscious body, he drew in a supposed breath with was immediately released as the Thief bonked him over the head as well.

The Thief had to resist laughing openly as Clear Sky fell to the ground next to his companion, his heart was racing, and he felt elated, this was a blast! All of his other escapades pickpocketing or infiltrating paled in comparison to this experience! The Thief replaced his club and began to head off when a devilish thought entered his head that made his smile grow.

Turning back the Thief shifted the positions of the two lowlifes, entangling their hooves around each other until it appeared that they had fallen asleep together.

The Thief laughed openly this time.

The tunnel lead next to the dumping pit, the Thief could see the waterfalls of sludge falling through the grates placed in the walls. He arrived on the far side of the hall and the pit, it gave way to a circular room with a drain on the ceiling flooding a beam of light into the centre of the room, two other tunnels lead to either side away from each other whilst there was nothing but solid brick wall in the direction of the Lord's manor.

The Thief paused for a moment, either way could lead to his destination but a wrong choice would mean possibly hours of backtracking and time was running thin, Windbeak could only act as a distraction for so long.

Suddenly the sound of crumbling stone came from the wall in front of the Thief, part of the wall gave way and something moved in from the newly form hole. The Thief heard a shrill squeak and stepped back in surprise and slight horror as a gigantic rat stepped into the light, it was the size of a dog, it's eyes were blood red and its teeth razor sharp in it's foaming mouth.

The rat launched itself at the Thief who sidestepped away, drawing his short sword as he did so, he faced the rat which hissed at him, before either of them could make a move the Thief was felt a weight land in his back, another rat! This one latched onto the Thief's back and tried biting through hid armour.

The Thief bucked and spun in a panic, trying to dislodge the vile creature on his back, he forgot about the first rat and paid for it. The rodent scampered forward and sunk it's teeth into the Thief's foreleg, the Thief screamed in pain, drooping his sword as the rat tore a chuck of his flesh away before retreating, blood poured out if the wound and adrenaline rushed through the Thief's veins.

With a violent jerk the Thief threw the rat off his back, he retrieved his sword and quickly pierced the vile thing through the eye. Spinning the Thief caught the other rat mid-jump as it tried to launch itself at him again, his blade sliced open the rat's underbelly, spilling it's guts as it hit the ground dead.

The Thief sat down, replacing his sword and gritting his teeth from pain as he inspected his wound, the rat had taken several layers of flesh and it's teeth and punctured deep, blood had coated the Thief's fur and hoof. Reaching into his bag the Thief took out a small red bottle, he pulled the cork free with a pop and poured the golden liquid onto his injury, the healing potion stung like a manticore's tail but it stopped the bleeding, the Thief chugged the rest of the potion and before his eyes a fresh layer of skin grew over his wound.

He threw the bottle away and stood up, testing his leg. The potion was only a temporary solution and he would need to see a healer before day's end, the Thief looked at the tunnel that the rats had come through, it seemed to lead in the direction he needed to go, the healer would need to wait.

Slowly and cautiously the Thief entered the tunnel, this one was clearly not Pony-made but he doubted the rats and dug through solid bedrock, it made the Thief wary for what else might be down there.

The tunnel went downwards on a steady incline and continued for at least a hundred meters before giving way to a small rectangular room that had been cut out. Wooden pillars stood in the middle of the room to keep the ceiling stable and burning torches hung from those pillars, there was another tunnel on the right side of the room that lead further down.

The Thief paused, peering into the dimly lit room, he saw movement and froze just as a rat entered the light of one of the torches. It didn't seem to have noticed the Thief yet and that served him just fine, as the rat casually crawled away the Thief pulled out his small crossbow, with a quick aim he fired the bolt right into the rodents head.

With a grin the Thief reloaded his crossbow and replaced it, he moved quickly towards the the next tunnel but stopped at when he spotted something tucked in to the far wall. He grabbed a nearby torch and held it in front of him, it turned out he had spotted a small wooden chest that had been placed in the corner.

The Thief's grin widened as he tried to open the chest only to find it locked, but this didn't feed him off as he simply placed the torch on the ground and pulled out two thin pieces on metal that were tucked into his gauntlets, slipping them gently into the chest's keyhole he felt around until he found the tumblers, with swift movements the Thief pushed the tumblers upwards one by one until he heard a soft click.

Pulling his picks out the Thief opened the chest, inside it was a small bag of bits, several potions, a couple rusty daggers and a small golden horn rink. With glee the Thief swiped the potions, coins, and ring, paying no mind to the poorly made daggers, the Thief put away the loot into his bag before moving on down the tunnel.

This one was short and lead back into the sewer's proper, the tunnel ending a meter or so from the floor. The Thief hopped down and looked around, a river of semi-clear water flowed from a grate to his left to a grate to his far right, a door on the far end of the room lead to the next section.

The Thief jumped over the river and began to head towards the door, that was until he spotted something next to the door and he stopped. Apparently whatever it was had heard him because it began to move, the Thief squinted and made out the shape on a Pony standing up.

"Stay there," the Thief said. "Just sit back down and we won't have any problems."

No response came and whoever it was moved slowly towards the Thief, a dry moan came from it and and the Thief had to stop himself from screaming as the thing entered the light.

It was a mare, once, now most of her face was made of rotting flesh. Maggots writhed and crawled over the putrid flesh, hundreds of them falling off the corpse in a disgusting cascade, it's left eye was bloodshot and dried out while the other was no more leaving an empty soulless socket in its place. As more and more of the zombie's body was revealed the Thief became increasingly disgusted and horrified, holes were torn in the corpse's body that showed yellowed bones and rotting internal organs, the fur was mostly gone leaving bare skin that had been knower and chewed to bits by rats and maggots.

The Thief was left frozen in place, his mind unable to comprehend what he was seeing and therefore unable to create a reaction. It was only when the zombie closed the distance and the putrid smell of rotting flesh hit the Thief's nose that his instincts finally kicked in, the Thief's wings extended and he tried to take flight, meaning to take advantage of the sewer's high ceiling.

He was too slow, the moment the Thief got airborne his escape was interrupted by the zombie chomping down on his leg. The bite didn't pierce through his armour but the Thief was plucked out of the air with surprising strength and was slammed into the ground, before the Thief could do anything the zombie was on top of him.

The corpse pinned the Thief's wings under it's cracked hoof, it leaned down towards the Thief's neck with it's jaw unhinged. The Thief managed to keep the beast at bay with another hoof, the zombie snapped his jaws like a crocodile, the Thief grit his teeth and managed to maneuver his rear hooves under the zombie and violently bucked the creature away, freeing his wing from it's weight.

The corpse landed on it's back and was slow to get up, the Thief took got up and took out his club. He ran over to the zombie and cracked the club onto its skull, the zombie's head smashed back down but it continued to moved never the less, angry and full of disgust the Thief continued to rain down blows on the undead skull.

"Why," he growled, slamming his club down again.

"Is there," smash.

"A bucking," smash.

"Zombie," smash.

"IN THE BUCKING SEWER!" With a final blow the Thief splattered rotten brains over the stone floor at sat down, catching his breath.

This was just too much, when he had agreed to this job it had seemed simple. Find the Princess, grab the amulet, leave, and then enjoy a wealthy long life with the Thieves Guild, but this... This was not exactly what the Thief had imagined his first heist being like, he's imagined infiltrating a castle, slipping past sleepy guards before stealing an amulet from a lone Princess then dashing off into the night. Not trudging through a dank sewer full of lowlifes, giant rats, and mother bucking zombie, the experience had made him reconsider his options.

But just as the seed of doubt entered his head it was drowned out by a more powerful force, greed. The allure of gold and jewels filled his mind, he though off all the fat nobles he could stiff and shops he could rob with the knowledge and resources that the guild offered, and this job was the gateway to that life, a better life.

Filled with even more determination that before the Thief got up and galloped into the next room, there was an access hole there and by his reckoning it lead into the Lord's manor. The Thief quickly climbed the latter and gently opened the cover, he climbed into a small servants closet that was full of brooms, dustpans, and other cleaning supplies.

The Thief gently pushed open the closet door just in time to see a Bolt Guard patrolling the hallway past the closet, the Thief closed the door quickly and sought another way out. The hallway was obviously guarded and he guessed that there was scarcely any hiding spots, just then the Thief spotted something, a small panel on the right.

The Thief pulled at the panel and it came loose, revealing a small tunnel that lead through the wall, of course! This was a servant's hole, common in noble houses so cleaners and other staff could move from room to room while appearing out of sight. The Thief entered the hole and swiftly traversed through the darkness, he felt along the wall for another panel and eventually he found one, the Thief pushed gently on it and peered into the room.

There she was, the Princess, his mark, she was pacing back and forth in her room, her necklace bouncing against her chest with every step. The Thief grinned and he began to formulate a plan, he could wait until her back was turned and swipe the necklace, or just knock her out, even take it at knifepoint, just as the Thief was coming to a conclusion when the sound of hoofbeats echoed beyond the door.

"Twilight! I'm glad your alright!"

The Thief's heart dropped as the Princess's personal guard entered the room, he closed the panel he had opened. Frustration filled his heart, all that work for nothing! He had failed! As the Thief went back the way he came a single thought managed to enter his angered mind.

Why does that guard sound so familiar?

~~*~~

Twilight stepped onto the balcony where Lord Thunder awaited her, the Lord of Fillydelphia looked over his city from his vantage point as the sun dipped down beneath the horizon.

"I'm sorry about the attack earlier, Princess," Lord Thunder said.

"You couldn't of known," Twilight said. "No one was hurt and that's all that matters."

"Still, I think it's best that we cut your visit short, you should move on to Manhatten in the morning."

"Alright," Twilight said, looking at Lord Thunder's troubled face. "What's the matter?"

"A storm is brewing Princess," Thunder Bolt said. "You and your friends best batten down the hatches lest you be taken by it, your travels across Equestria will show you what troubles are festering on the edges of the country."

"You think some disaster is on its way?" Twilight asked.

"I think that our strength will be tested in the days to come," Lord Thunder said. "A bounty hunter had the boldness to attack a Princess, when criminals are emboldened like that then we must prepare for worse things to come."

"Maybe I can stop it then? Whatever it is?" Twilight suggested. "That is my duty as a Princess isn't it?"

"It is," Lord Thunder said. "And Equestria is blessed to have such a wise and caring Princess to govern over it."

Twilight didn't say anything back, but she smiled and felt her cheeks heat up, but she looked up at the night sky, confident in the success of her trip so far.

Chapter 10- Over The Hills And Far Away

Chapter 10~ Over The Hills And Far Away

They left Fillydelphia just before dawn, that way they could leave quickly and quietly and be in Manehatten by early morning. It was a clear winters night, a light shower of snow whipped past the speeding train lie shorting stars, the spectacle went unnoticed by the passengers though.

"I can't wait to get to Manehatten," Twilight said excitedly. "My friend Rarity has only been there a few times, she's told me all about it, huge cites and bustling streets, not to mention it's home to some of Equestria's most influential nobility, including Iron Hill, Lord of Manehatten and House Hill."

"Great, a whole city full of stuck-up rich ponies," Flash said sarcastically.

"You should talk, you grew up there!" Twilight said, giggling. "I still hope you'll introduce me to your family."

"Uh... Yeah of course," Flash said uncertainly. "As soon as I get the chance I'll let them know we're in town, you can say hello and everything."

"You haven't seen them in a while have you?" Twilight asked. "I'm guessing you didn't leave on the best of terms?"

"You could say that, but let's just focus on meeting Lord Iron Hill, then we can see about meeting my family, deal?"

"Deal."

Great Flash, just create a family out of thin air.

As they entered the county around Manehatten the landscape became very hilly, slopes both steep and not passed by, some even higher than the train itself. It wasn't until they were very close to the city that Manehatten came into sight behind the rolling hills, even at night the splendour of the city was evident, sitting on its own island the buildings were some of the tallest in Equestria, many of them made of primarily metal rather than the usual wood, their glass windows reflected the stars and Luna's moon.

The train crossed the rail bridge to the island and pulled into the station, Twilight and Flash stepped off the train and were greeted by a Hill Guard. The stallion was wearing heavy iron chain mail and helmet, with a grey tunic over it, the likeness of a black mountain with a star just above it was adorned on his chest, the sigil of House Hill.

"Princess Twilight," the Hill Guard greeted, his accent sold him as being at least somewhat upper-class in Manehatten. "I shall take you to my Lord's house, unfortunately you come at a rather indecent hour and Lord Iron is still asleep but if you only wait for a few minutes when we get there then his lordship will greet you properly."

"I understand," Twilight said with a smile. "Lead on."

The Hill Guard nodded and lead them into the narrow streets of Manehatten, even at this early hour they were packed with commuters of all classes. The streets proper were full of taxi carriages and the sidewalks crowded, gratefully the commuters parted in the way of the Hill Guard that was their guide.

Light was beginning to flood the city when Lord Iron's house came into view, it was tall and wide, made out of the white marble that would usually be more common in Canterlot. This was because marble was one of the many natural resources that is mined in the hills surrounding Manehatten, banners with the sigil of House Hill flew proudly and whole platoons of Hill Guards stood in the courtyard on either side of an impressive fountain with a statue of what must have been a deceased member of the Hill family.

"That's the late Lord Stone Hill," Twilight said, gesturing to the statue in the fountain. "He was called Stone Hill the Great, he founded Manehatten and established the noble Hill house."

They entered the Lord's house, they were greeted with the sight of polished floors, expressive rugs and carpets and exotic plants decorating the walls. The Hill Guard lead them through the main hall into a small circular room with several expensive chairs, a large set of double doors was on the far side of the room, the doors inscribed elegantly, depicting a mountain exploding from the top and showering the land around it with gems.

"His Lordship will be right with you," the Hill Guard said. "If you will only wait here."

"Of course," Twilight said. "No rush."

The Hill Guard bowed and left through a side door, Twilight made herself comfortable on one of the chairs and Flash resigned himself to standing by her side.

"Lord Iron Hill must really like to flaunt his wealth," Flash commented, looking around at the expensive furniture.

"I'm sure it's mostly inherited," Twilight said. "And don't sound so unhappy, we haven't even met Lord Iron Hill yet."

"Well our track record of nobility hasn't exactly been reassuring," Flash countered. "So far we've had an asshole and a swearing-possibly-drunkard, not exactly stunning representatives of the nobility."

"Well, I'm technically a noble now," Twilight said, poking Flash in the side. "So is Celestia and Luna, and Cadence as well."

"Yeah but your all Princesses," Flash said. "It's not the same thing."

"Yeah, I had to learn to lead," Twilight said. "With thousands of years of history behind them, these nobles are born and bred to lead."

"If you say so," Flash admitted, they waited only a few more minutes before the Hill Guard returned.

"Lord Iron Hill will see you now, I ask that you be respectful while in his house," the guard said. "Follow me."

The large double doors opened to reveal a well-lit circular room, a throne stood on the far side of the room, flanked by five chairs on either side. Each of the chairs was occupied by a noble which mostly consisted of upper-class looking unicorns, the throne itself of course held Lord Iron Hill himself.

Lord Iron Hill was a rather chubby steel-grey unicorn with coal black eyes and hair, he wasn't exactly fat but it was quit apparent that Iron Hill enjoyed his food and drink. He was draped in and expensive looking silk tunic that was embroidered with silver, the sigil of House Hill stamped on the front.

"Lord Iron Hill," Twilight gave a short but respectful bow when they approached.

"Ah, Princess Twilight Sparkle," Iron Hill said from his throne in a rather bland voice. "I welcome you to Manehatten and my house."

"Thank you, I trust you are already aware of the purpose of my visit?" Twilight asked.

"I am, and in turn I have already planned the appropriate festivities," Lord Iron said.

"Oh? What did you have in mind?"

"A ball and banquet of course," Iron Hill said. "It's only fitting to welcome Equestria's newest Princess, only the most influential Ponies outside of Canterlot will be attending, I would hope this would give you an opportunity to meet some of the resident nobility."

"That is a wonderful idea, thank you," Twilight said tactically, but Flash could detect she was unhappy about something.

"Indeed," Lord Iron Hill said. "The ball will be tonight, please feel free to relax until then, I have rooms already ready, if you'll excuse me, I'm a terribly busy stallion."

"Of course, thank you Lord Iron Hill for your hospitality," Twilight said before she and Flash followed the Hill Guard through a side door and down a hall, they were lead to the room Lord Iron had provided and the Hill Guard left them in peace.

"Is something the matter?" Flash asked. "You didn't seem excited at the ball idea."

"It's just... The purpose of this trip is to create relations with the people, not the nobility, and while I should be familiar with influential nobles it's not why I'm here," Twilight said.

"Hey, cheer up, maybe this ball will be fun?" Flash offered. "Not I've ever been to one... But I'm sure it'll be great!"

"Oh I'm sure," Twilight giggled before looking Flash over. "Actually, your going to need a suit."

"A what?"

"A suit, you can't go to a ball in a Lord's manor dressed in your armour," Twilight said.

"Okay, I suppose your right but how in Equestria am I going to get a suit on short notice?"

"Mmmm... Ah! I know!" Twilight said, summoning parchment and a quill out of nowhere, she wrote a few short sentences before folding the parchment and teleporting it off Celestia-knows-where.

"There's a rather talented seamstress nearby on Mane Street, her name's Coco Pommel," Twilight said. "I don't doubt she could get you fitted before tonight."

"But... I can't just up and leave!" Flash said. "What about you? I have to stay and keep you safe!"

"Flash, I'm fine! What could happen inside Lord Iron Hill's own house?"

"Don't you remember how you were attacked not two blocks away from Lord Thunder's manor?"

"Yes, and I'm still grateful for you saving me," Twilight said, patting Flash's cheek endearingly. "But I'm a big mare, I'll be fine, go get yourself fitted and if you can talk to your family while your here! I don't want to keep you from them."

"But..."

"Go!" Twilight yelled, giggling as she shoved Flash towards the door, her Pegasus guard took another worried look before reluctantly heading off.

Twilight sighed once he left, she sat down in her room for a few moments. She noticed how quiet it was and decided she didn't want to sit in her room for Flash to come back, so Twilight decided she would take this opportunity to walk around Manehatten.

Twilight felt slightly guilty about breaking her promise, especially after only a few seconds. But Flash was clearly overreacting although that didn't mean she wouldn't take precautions, once Twilight left her room she found the nearest Hill Guard.

"Excuse me," Twilight said, getting the guards attention.

"What do you need your majesty?" The guard said dutifully.

"I am taking a walk throughout the city and I need you to accompany me to assure my safety," Twilight answered as professionally as she could.

"Of course your highness, it would be my honour," the Hill Guard said. "Please, lead on so I may follow."

"Yeah, of course," Twilight said awkwardly, slipping past the guard and heading out of the manor.

The sun was well set in the sky now and as such the streets and sidewalks were well and truly packed now, Twilight had trouble imagining how she would move anywhere without the crowd parting in way of the intimidating Hill Guard.

Twilight wondered the streets, not really knowing we're she was going but content to simply soak in the impressive sights of Manehattens mighty buildings. Turning onto another street Twilight entered what must have been Manehatten's market area, if it was then it put all other markets to shame bar Canterlot's own international market that was held every few years.

The market square was an entire city block, stores and businesses made up the square shape and stalls filled said square selling some of the finest goods in the land. With a smile Twilight entered the market, browsing casually through the stalls, quite a few market-goers gave her curious and awe-struck glances.

"I don't think I'll ever get used to the stares," Twilight said, when no response came she looked behind her to the sight of the stone-faced Hill Guard.

"Sorry, did you say something ma'am?" He asked.

"Uh, no, never mind."

Twilight turned away, a little put off, I felt odd not having Flash around although Twilight couldn't fathom why exactly. Ignoring the feeling Twilight continued throughout the market, stopping to chat will the merchants every now and again, asking about business and how well they were doing, so on so forth. Overall the response was positive, the ponies of Manehatten were happy and Lord Iron Hill clearly ruled fairly, Twilight couldn't help but compare him to the other lords she had met.

Lord Forest was vile that much was simple, from what Twilight had seen he treated the common working pony with contempt and Twilight had already promised to make his frankly unacceptable behaviour known to Princess Celestia. Twilight didn't have time enough to see most of Fillydelphia but Lord Thunder gave the impression that he truly cared for his city and its inhabitants despite being a bit rough around the edges, Lord Iron gave a similar impression that he cared or at least the city reflected that as Twilight hadn't spoken to him long.

She came out on the far side of the market without breakup step, not really sure where else to go. It was already midday when Twilight felt her stomach grumble, with a smile she decided to head back to the manor and grab lunch, perhaps Flash would already be there?

Deciding to take a different route around Twilight exited the market opposite the way she came in, coming through a small side street she came out onto the road but immediately noticed that there was much less traffic on the road. The sidewalks as well were free from bustling crowds with the only groups around moving in tight shuffling groups, with many of these groups peering out from darkened alleyways.

A cold winters wind gnawed at Twilights fur and she shivers, fleetingly she wished for the warmth of Flash's cloak but immediately shook the though out of her head as her cheeks burned. Looking around Twilight tried to gage which direction would bring her back to the Lords Manor, her thoughts were interrupted as the Hill Guard spoke up, making Twilight jump as she had honestly forgotten he was there.

"Your majesty, I think we should go back the way we came," he said softly but urgently, his eyes darting from place to place like a crazed parasprite.

"What's wrong with a little more walking? I want to see more of the city after all," Twilight said curiously.

"It's just I think we shouldn't be here your highness," the Guard replied.

"Why don't cha' stay around taffer?" A new voice said and Twilight and the Hill Guard turned to face it. Looking out at them from a nearby alleyway was a very rough-looking Earth Pony stallion. His brown fur might have at one time been a lighter colour and his mane may have been orange but both were almost as soiled and dirtied as the many jackets that were wrapped around him to keep the cold out.

"We always like company down 'ere 'specially when it's a pretty little princess," the lowlife said and suddenly there were more of them, six more equally dirty stallions surrounded them, all of them holding heavy thick knives in their mouths and eyeing Twilight like lions before a gazelle.

"Why don' we give 'er a Manehatten welcome boys?" The lead lowlife called and his companions gave hearty guffaws in response as they slowly stalked forward, the Hill Guard drew his blade which made a few of the lowlifes halt in their step for a moment before they grinned and continued closing the circle.

"W-wait a minute everypony!" Twilight said in a panic. "You don't need to do this! We can work this out!"

The lowlifes laughed and laughed, a few them almost dropped their Dirks from their mouths. The leader himself was nearly rolling on the ground in delight before getting back up and moving his coat out of the way to reveal a small axe hidden under it.

"Ya' don't get out much do ya' missy?" The leader said with a chuckle before grabbing his axe and stalking forward.

The Hill Guard was darting the point of his sword from place to place, trying to keep track of each one of the lowlifes.

"Ma'am, perhaps you should fly away now," the Hill Guard said.

"Oh no ya' don't!" The criminal closest to a Twilight and lunged forward with his dirk, Twilight screamed and fell backwards, sparking her magic in a panic. The lowlifes dirk clattered to the ground as the he went flying across the street from the panicked force spell, he hit the ground with a wet thump and a sickening crack.

The remaining criminals stood stunned for a minute before coming back to reality, the lead lowlife growled and gripped his axe more firmly.

"Stick 'em!" He grunted through the weapon and attacked. The Hill Guard blocked the blow and pushed him away before turning to face to the left, he blocked their blows and pushed them back slightly with a spell but he was too slow as three different blades scraped across his back, the chain mail held but it knocked the guard off balance. Meanwhile Twilight was shifting across the ground away from two of the thugs, the Guard noticed her peril and blink teleported over. He caught the criminals by surprise and buried his sword in the neck of the nearest lowlife, blood spurted from the would like a broken fountain, the stallion gave a death gurgle as the Guard pulled his sword out with a wet sound.

The small victory was short lived as three of the remaining lowlifes tackled the guard from behind in a deadly pile, the Hill Guard crashed to the ground and his sword went skidding, the criminals quickly surrounded him and began raining blows down on the guard. The Hill Guard screamed in pain as the blades sheared through his chain mail and cut into his back, his screamed became moans, moans became a gurgle and the gurgle stopped and there was silence from the guard.

Twilight looked on in horror as the lead criminal pulled his axe free from the spine of the dead guard, blood dripped from the blade and from the stallions muzzle giving him a savage look. Slowly the lowlifes creeped towards Twilight, grins were plastered on their mouths as they revelled in the moment, the sight of their delight at violence churned Twilights stomach in disgust.

Scrambling to her hooves Twilight began running through hundreds of spells in her head, but her head and heart were pounding, she couldn't focus nearly enough to cast half the spells she knew, she certainly couldn't teleport. One of the lowlifes lunged forward, not really meaning to actually do damage but frighten the mare, he was met with a magical blast that knocked him off balance.

The axe-wielding thug glared in fury but Twilight charged her magic, sending a shock wave in every direction.

"Get away!" Twilight yelled as the shockwave released, it hit the lowlifes and sent them skidding backwards on their hooves which only really accomplished in making them more angry.

Before anyone could make any sort of move one of the lowlifes pointed up and called out in surprise, the rest of the criminals and Twilight followed his lead. A orange blur shot through the air above them and landed with a metallic clank onto the road, throwing up a cloud of dust in the process. As the dust cleared Twilight was met with probably the most comforting sight she had ever seen in her short life, Flash stood there between her and the lowlifes and as she watched he drew his sword.

The thugs seemed to second guess themselves, exchanged worried glances and eyeing Flash's Snowhawk cape. Steeling themselves they dashed forward, Flash sidestepped the first attack and brought his sword to bear with the stallions spine, the lowlife fell to the ground with a crack just as Flash turned and caught the next criminals dirk in his crossbar. Disengaging his sword Flash ducked under and speared the criminal through the throat and ripped the blade out the back of the stallions throat splattering blood everywhere and freeing his sword just it time to meet two more lowlifes that attacked together.

Flash blocked the first ones blade but the second stepped to the side and landed a solid blow against his armoured side, Flash grit his teeth and extended his wing rapidly and smacked the criminal in the face with it. The lowlife was sent stumbling and Flash pushed the other one away, he slashed across the chest of each on in turn in two quick strokes leaving him facing that last axe-wielding criminal.

"Fucking Snowhawk! Why don't you pompous fucks ever learn?!" He yelled and charged Flash, raining downward blows on him.

Desperately Flash blocked blow after blow, unable to retaliate or risk injury. His only hope was that he would outlast his criminal opponent and the lowlife would tire and start getting sloppy, although that didn't seem to be happening anytime soon. Flash and the criminal locked weapons and set their strength against one another and found they were seemingly matched, that was until the lowlife widened his eyes and was suddenly hit by a blast of purple magic.

The stallion feel backwards and screamed in pain as his body dissolved into dust as the spell consumed him, his eyes gave on last terrified look before he completely turned into a pile of slightly glowing dust.

Flash sheathed his sword and looked behind him at Twilight who was staring that the newly-created dust pile with a horrified look, tears began flowing down her cheeks and immediately Flash rushed towards her. Twilight felt herself wrapped in his embrace and lifted of the ground as Flash took to the air, the air thrown up by his wings blowing the disintegrated lowlife into the air.

They didn't fly for long but then again Twilight could barely register what was happening around her, she felt the ground when they hit it and could continually sense Flash's comforting Wong around her Ashe lead her Celestia-knows-where, voices occasionally breaking through the mist.

"Give a message to Lord Iron Hill, tell him that Princess Twilight was attacked not two blocks away from his own house."

"Are you alright sir?"

"I'm fine, but send a healer later on to do a check up on her."

"Of course sir!"

"Do you need any help?"

"No... Actually could you get a pot of strong tea send to her room... And maybe a bottle of wine?"

"Of course sir, at once."

Flash lead the sniffling Twilight into her room and sat her on the bed, Twilight accepted his guidance passively. Flash unhooked his armour strapped and quickly shed the metallic second-skin, he took his Snowhawk cape and wrapped it around Twilight. There was a knock at the door and a servant poked her head in, she carried a tray with a fresh pot of tea and also a bottle of Saddle Arabian wine and small glasses along with it, Flash quickly thanked the servant and brought the tray over to Twilight.

Twilight had stopped crying but the streaks in her fur were all-too visible, she stared blankly forward seemingly not noticing anything around her. Flash sat next to her and wrapping his wing around her, his face scrunched in concern and worry.

"What to talk about what happened?" Flash asked.

Twilight didn't say anything at first, instead she stared at the food tray in front of her. She sparked her magic and grasped the wine bottle with it, the cork came off with a pop! and she poured into a glass, filling the vessel completely instead of partly as was originally intended. Twilight downed the glass of wine like a proud northerner with his ale, she came up with tears in her eyes and hiccuping slightly, wether from the wine or sorrow was not clear.

"I killed two Ponies that's what happened," Twilight sobbed, pouring more wine for herself.

Flash held her close as Twilight downed another glass of intoxicant but he blocked the bottle from the glass the next time she tried to pour, he pulled her close and let her sob into his shoulder. She hiccuped and was clearly already very tipsy which only really made her condition worse as Flash tried to smooth her.

"Listen to me," Flash said. "They attacked you, a princess, you defended yourself, there's nothing wrong with that."

"B-but I didn't have to kill them!" Twilight cried. "I could have stunned them! Used a Paralysis Spell or disarmed them! Instead I killed them both like sort of... Of witch!"

"You're not a witch Twilight and don't you dare think that," Flash said. "Think, why did you do what you did instead of paralyzing them?"

"Well... I... First I just panicked and I used a force spell, I couldn't concentrate so I just did it," Twilight said. "And then I saw you fighting that one with the axe and I was scared, I couldn't just let you die or get hurt because of me I wouldn't be able to live with myself, suddenly the disintegration spell just popped into my head and... Well... You know..."

"See? Panic, heat of the moment," Flash said. "We can say all day that we could have knocked them out or pacified them, but when the fighting starts and instinct takes over those ideas go out the window and we act for our own survival rather than our moral standing."

" 'A plan never survives first contact with the enemy' " Twilight sighed. "You sound like Shining."

"Your brothers a smart guy," Flash said, slipping out of Twilight's embrace and looking her in the eye. "And I think he would agree with me that you have nothing to beat yourself over about, you acted like anypony else would have acted and truthfully? I'm really proud of you for how you handled it."

"Thank you," Twilight sniffed, wiping her eyes and actually managing a smile.

"Feeling better?" Flash asked.

"Much better, although that might just be the wine talking."

The two of them laughed together and Twilight cuddled up to Flash who certainly didn't mind, Twilight poured both of them tea and they sipped at their drinks together contently taking comfort in simply being close to one another.

"Actually... How'd you know I was there anyway? On that street I mean?" Twilight asked.

"Oh... Well, I didn't actually, I was nearby," Flash answered, looking at his teacup and not Twilight.

"Nearby? Why? That's nowhere near Coco's Boutique, what were you doing there?"

"Well... "

~~*~~

Flash signed a bit as he walked away from Twilight's room, he was worried about what might happen while he was gone, she had already been attacked once already but as long as she kept her promise to stay on the Lords manor than she should be fine.

Flash left the lord's manor and turned onto Mane Street, as he walked his thoughts turned to his conversation with Twilight on the train ride to the city. She wanted to meet his family, a family that largely didn't exist and Flash seriously doubted that Swift would just fly out of the sky and offer to meet Twilight.

So what could he do really? Fleetingly Flash considered simply spilling every ounce of the truth to Twilight but very quickly shot that idea down, he could scarcely imagine Twilight's reaction. At the very least Flash would never see her again and the thought brought a sharp pain to his heart as he could quite proudly admit that they had grown close in the past few days and Flash was not about to throw that away, he could only hope that the past would stay dead and he could move on free of the guilt in his heart.

He came across Coco Pommel's Boutique three blocks down Mane Street, it was a humble little shop and Flash would have gone past it had he not been looking for it. He walked into the shop with a cheerful little twinkle from the bell above the door, inside was a simple circular studio of sorts with mannequins lined along the wall all sporting an assortment of dresses, suits, and other sorts of outfits.

There was a small reception desk with a service bell, Flash rung it and quickly what must have been Coco Pommel came out from a back door. She was a cute little mare with a blue mane and a cream-coloured coat, Coco smiled in a friendly manner.

"You must be Flash Sentry," she said a soft voice. "Twilight sent a letter forward, you need a suit for tonight right?"

"That's right," Flash said. "I hope it's not too much trouble."

"Not at all, I don't have much business these days anyway," Coco said. "Just take your armour off so I can make some quick measurements."

"Why aren't you having much business?" Flash asked as he began unlatching his armour. "I would of thought Ponies would be lining up for warm clothes with winter coming."

"Well they were, but unfortunately I've been marked," Coco said sadly, taking out her measuring tape.

"Marked?"

"I suppose you wouldn't know," Coco said. "Marked is when a local gang makes it known that a certain store isn't cooperating with them, so everypony knows to avoid that store or face violent punishment."

"Does that mean..."

"Oh no, your fine, the Blood Manes are tough but they won't bother a Royal Guard."

"The Blood Manes huh?"

"Yeah, charming name don't you think? They're bent on controlling Mane Street one shop at a time."

"Why don't the guards do something about it?"

"I'm afraid it's not that easy, the Manes' cover their tracks too well," Coco said sadly. "Plus they probably pay off half of them, their leader a stallion called Bloody Buck has the guard captain on the payroll."

"Bloody Buck?" Flash asked, finding familiarity in the name. "Bucky?"

"I've never heard him called that."

Flash was barely listening, before his brother... Disappeared, Canterlot had not been their only place of crime, they had in fact worked in Manehatten before. And when you do business in Manehatten you do business with Bucky, or 'Bloody Buck' as he apparently called himself these days, Bucky and Swift had been fast friends so Bucky may know where Swift was!

"So, where does this Bloody Buck hang around? Just so I know to avoid the place."

"He and his lowlifes usually hang around Flood Street," Coco said, too busy noting down measurements to really pay attention to the question. "There! All done!"

"Great, so you'll have the suit ready before tonight?" Flash asked, already putting his armour back on.

"You can bet on it, I'll have it delivered to the Lord's manor shall I?"

"Cheers."

Flash left Coco's Boutique and onto the bustling street, he looked down one way were the road turned and eventually lead back to Lord Iron's house. He then looked the opposite way were a nearby sign identified the street he was on as Mane Street and the next one over as Flood Street. With rather little internal debate Flash turned away from the Lord's house and onto the dank slum that awaited him.

Flood Street lived up to its name, the snow had melted into slush and water drenching everything around to the point that there was almost a consistent centimetre of water on the street that dampened Flash's hooves.

Hungry eyes peered at him from darkened alleyways, sizing him up, weighing the risk. Apparently most thought the risk was too great, others were mor courageous.

"Oi! You! Soldier-boy!" A voice yelled out from the gloom, Flash turned to see three rough-and-tumble looking stallions all glaring at him, one of them smoking a rotten pipe.

"What'cha doin' around 'ere soldier-boy? This 'ere's Bloody Mane territory and no pony struts around 'ere but with the consent of Bloody Buck," one of the Lowlifes said. "What's yer business 'ere?"

"I want to see Bloody Buck," Flash said, getting a round a hearty guffaws in turn.

"Nobody sees Bloody Buck, 'specially not some shiny soldier-boy!" The Lowlife wheezed. "Buck off!"

"Me and Bloody Buck are old friends, you wouldn't want him knowing you turned one of his friends around do you?"

That shut them up quick, the lowlifes exchanged glances before coming to a decision.

"Bah! Fine! Come meet the king~ò~criminals but don't cha' be surprised when he lobs yer head off!"

The stallion lead Flash further down Flood Street, eventually turning into and alleyway and navigating a maze of back streets and paths between run-down houses that made up the slum. They made a turn into a unimpressive dead-end alleyway were a bush of stallions sat around an old rotten table playing cards, the one directly opposite Flash was a burly rough Earth Pony with fiery orange mane and beard and fur that once might have been beige, he wore a heavy long-coat covered in patches and a short brimmed at atop his head, a pipe stuck out one side of his mouth and the exhaled smoke came out the other.

Bloody Buck slammed his cards down on the table "Blackjack ya' taffers!" He guffawed as the others moaned and groaned and forked over their bits.

"H-hey there boss," Flash's guide said nervously. "There's somepony 'ere to see ya'"

Buck eyed Flash in his golden armour and spat in his direction "what's a soldier-boy like you doin' in my kingdom eh? Speak up lad!"

"That anyway to greet an old friend?" Flash said, removing his helmet. "Hello again Bucky, long time no see."

Bucky stared at Flash with scrutiny before his eyes widened and his pipe fell right out of his mouth, clattering to the ground.

"Flash Hoof lad... Ya' all grown up.." Bucky said before clearing the table a giving Flash a big hug.

"It's good ta' see ya' lad! Look 'ow you are! Last time I saw ya' you were little more than a foal!"

"Good to see you too Bucky," Flash said with a smile, he really did meet it, Bucky was the closest thing he had to family outside of Swift, almost like a crazy grandfather.

"You ya' joined the guard then did ya' ?" Bucky said releasing Flash and tapping his armour. "Should'a known, you were always goin' on about becomin' a knight and such, good on you lad!"

"Thanks," Flash said. "But I'm really not here for a reunion as great as this is, I need your help."

"Anything lad!" Bucky said. "What'cha need?"

"Information," Flash said. "Just one question, do you have any idea where my brother is?"

"Yer brother?" Bucky asked confused. "Swift? As in ya' don't know where he is?"

"No," Flash said with his spirits falling. "I hoped you might know."

"Lad I haven't seen that brother of yers for years, not since the last time you and him did a job for me," Bucky explained. "What happened?"

"Something went wrong," Flash explained. "It was just another job, I got in with this rich noble filly, won her over, then I was supposed to let Swift in so we could rob the entire mansion blind but... I... I..."

"I was stupid! I felt so bad about leading her on! And then she saw me letting Swift into her house and I couldn't lie to her! So I told her everything! Asked her to run away with me and she just screamed for the guards, Swift said he would hold them off so I could run, so I did, I flew to Cloudsdale and my money ran out, that's when I signed up for the guard and I tried to move on."

"I'm sorry to hear that lad, truly I am," Bucky said. "I wish I could tell you that I knew where yer brother is but I haven't seen hide nor tail of 'em in years."

"Should have guessed that anyway," Flash. "Still, it's good to see you again Bucky."

"And you too lad!" Bucky said heartily. "Speakin' o' which, why are you in Manehatten anyway? You ain't been assigned to the Hill Guard else I would've known."

"No, I'm only here for the day, guarding Equestria's newest princess Twilight Sparkle as she goes on a tour," Flash said casually.

"The new princess huh?" Bucky said, popping his pipe back into his mouth and taking a puff. One of this henchcolts trotted up to him and whispered something in his ear, Bloody Buck grinned and said something back softly, the stallion grinned wickedly and ran off.

"Seems your pretty little princess has wondered into our territory lad," Bloody Buck said, puffing on his pipe.

"What?! I told her to stay!" Flash said. "I'm sorry Bucky but I gotta-"

"Calm yer tats lad," Bloody Buck said soothingly. "I've sent me lads to give 'er a proper Bloody Mane welcome."

"What do you mea-" Flash's eyes widened. "No! You can't! She hasn't done anything to you!"

"Sorry lad but is she's stepped into my lands and she's gotta learn how things work around here," Bloody Buck said. "Not to mention there's a hefty price on her head, seems a certain lord ain't a fan of our newest overlord."

"Please Bucky! Don't do this! She's innocent!"

"No! She's a noble! You said yourself! That Canterlot bitch stabbed you in the back and broke yer heart! This one will do the same! You belong with me lad! Keep to the guard if you want but work with me from there! Help me take over Manehatten from the ground up and the both of us can be rich!"

"No," Flash said, grabbing his helmet and backing away.

"Don't make an enemy of me lad," Bloody Buck warned. "Cross me and I'll bloody your mane, trust me on that."

Flash spread his wings and was gone in a gust of wind, giving one last look to Bloody Buck was shaking his head in disappointment at him. Flash put his helmet back on and immediately began looking for Twilight, Bucky said she was on his turf to she must have been nearby, he flew in slowly growing circles until he spotted Twilight. She was lying on the ground and was slowly being approaching by a group of Bucky's lowlifes, steeling himself Flash folded his wings and shot towards the ground in between Twilight and the thugs.

~~*~~

"....I was nearby," Flash said. "I was on my way back and a decided to drop in on my parents only place."

"Really?" Twilight asked excitedly. "And?"

"No luck," Flash said. "Seems they've moved and no pony near bye remembers them or me."

"I'm sorry," Twilight said, nuzzling him and giving him a squeeze. "Are you going to be alright?"

"Me?" Flash asked incredulously, drowning the guilt that was bubbling up in his facade. "What about you? Are you alright?"

"I said I'm fine!" Twilight giggled. "I'm fine, your fine, the ball is in a few hours and-" there was a knock at the door.

"-my dress and your suit have just arrived," Twilight finished, she got up from the bed and Flash immediately missed her warmth. Twilight opened the door to see a servant holding two packages, she thanked the mare and took the packages, levitating one over to Flash.

"Where'd you get the dress anyway?" Flash asked.

"I wore it at the Grand Galloping Gala a few years ago, I had by friend Rarity send it over for the ball," Twilight explained, opening the package. "There's a changing room right their, I'll get dressed in here."

"Yeah, sure," Flash said, taking his package and into the side room to get changed.

The suit was a simple three-piece outfit, with a bow tie and flower lapel to boot. Flash came out of the changing room and his jaw dropped, Twilight stood their in a gorgeous starry gown that fit snugly around her female curves and wings, Twilight noticed him standing there and gave an all-too enticing wink.

"How do I look?" Twilight asked.

"Absolutely gorgeous," Flash breathed, getting a blush from Twilight.

"Come on, the ball will be starting soon."

~~*~~

The ball room was full of chattering nobility, from wealthy merchants to long standing families, to second-cousins-of-the-half-brother-of-the-sister-of-that-king-somewhere-out-east. All of whom turned towards the entrance as Twilight and Flash stepped through, they chattered excitedly and Flash couldn't help but be reminded of a flock of birds, all doing what the others were doing for fear of being thrown out of the flock.

Twilight walked up through the crown with Flash in tow, Lord Iron Hill awaited them at the far end of the room. He and Twilight exchanged mutual bows and Iron Hill turned to the crowd, Twilight standing by.

"Today we celebrate Equestria's newest Princess! Long may she reign and bring us all closer in friendship!" Lord Iron Hill said. "Let the festivities begin!"

There was a round of clapping and the nobility resumed their chatter, Lord Iron Hill turned to Twilight and gestured for her to follow him, Flash tagged behind them letting the two have their conversation.

"I'm sorry we couldn't speak earlier," Lord Iron said.

"It's alright, I understand how busy you are," Twilight responded.

"And I also apologize for what happened on Flood Street, to think that there were such violent criminals in my doorstep is simple unacceptable," Lord Iron Hill said with a stake of his head. "I can assure you that an investigation is ongoing to discover the scum behind the attack."

"Thank you, I appreciate it."

"But do tell you thoughts about my city, excluding that unfortunate incident."

"Well I had thought you had done a very good job at managing the cities economy, but after that attack... Are all criminals so violent? Are their more street gangs like them?"

"Unfortunately yes," Lord Iron sighed. "They are a plague on my otherwise glorious city, I have made numerous attempts to route out this problem but to no avail, every time my guards raid their hideouts they disappear, like they know we are coming."

Flash considered releasing his knowledge that the Hill Guards were being paid off but then that would reveal his association with Bloody Buck, so with ever mounting guild he kept his mouth shut.

"I'm sorry to hear that," Twilight was saying. "But I'm sure if you keep trying you'll bring them to justice."

"I agree full heartedly," Iron Hill said with a smile. "Now if you'll excuse me I must be off, but please! Mingle! I'm sure everypony here is eager to meet you!" Flash walked up next to Twilight as Lord Iron Hill cantered away.

"I'm guessing you don't want to meet with Manehatten's snobbyist," he said.

"Yeah, not really," Twilight said, the orchestra began a fresh song, it was slow and moanful and many of the guests went to the dance floor and became circling slowly together.

"Say, you want to dance?" Twilight asked suddenly, catching Flash off guard.

"W-what?" Flash stuttered, his face heating up.

"Come on," Twilight said, hooking her leg with his and pulling him gently to the centre of the dance floor. She placed one hoof on his shoulder and directed Flash's hoof to her side and then held him by his, they started out at length but Twilight quickly closed the distance so that they were practically hugging. They circled slowly with the music with Twilight taking the lead as Flash was having trouble concentrating, he found himself lost in Twilight's large lavender eyes.

"I'm glad you came with me on this trip Flash," Twilight said softly. "I don't know how I would've done any of this without you around."

"You would have been fine," Flash said, finding his voice. "I'm just here to make you look good."

Twilight giggled and placed her head on Flash's shoulder, they danced and danced until the night grew old, and then they danced some more, neither of them willing to leave the embrace of the other.

Chapter 11~ Burning The Rose Bush

Chapter 11~ Burning the Rose Bush

Flash gently opened the door to the compartment, the conductor had offered the bed space for Twilight because he knew the trip would run through the night. They had left Manehatten not long after the ball, Twilight wanted to make good time on they're way to Baltimare. Right now Twilight was sleeping soundly in the small but comfy bed, a small smile on her lips, Flash snuck over and pulled the blanket higher on her with the sleeping Princess snuggling up in the most adorable way.

Flash smiled and turned around, meaning to make a few more rounds on the train before getting some sleep before they arrived. At least that was the plan but that quickly faded away at Flash's ears perked up at a faint sound, barely audible over the gentle click-clack of the train but still there. Soft hoof-beats on a metal surface, at first Flash though it might be one of the other passengers, or the conductor but then he realized the sound was not in front or behind him, it was above him.

Frowning Flash quietly exited Twilight's compartment into the next car, there the sound continued. Gentle hoof-beats moving up the train, they weren't constant, wether that was because they were so quiet in nature or the owner of them was moving only every couple seconds wasn't clear. But as Flash listened closely the sounds became faster and louder, they went right over were Flash was standing and continued to echo through Twilight's compartment.

Flash's eyes widened and burst through the compartment door, there hovering over a sleeping Twilight with an outstretched hoof was a cloaked and hooded figure. Flash could see leather armour under the cloak as well as an assortment of daggers and a short sword at the stallion's side. Flash called out a warning that woke Twilight up, she took one look at the cloaked figure next to her and screamed, her magic sparked and launched the stallion against the wall.

The Thief shook his head clear and quickly jumped out the open window that he must have come through originally, Flash grabbed his helmet that was sitting on the floor and threw it on, he ran past a still-stunned Twilight to the window.

"Stay here!" He told her.

"Wait a second!" Twilight said. "Don't just-"

Her words were cut off by the roar of the wind as Flash jumped out the window and was caught up in the current, he flared his wings and flew up high riding the wind for all its worth. He spotted the Thief running along the train towards the back, possibly trying to use the momentum of the train to his advantage, well two could play that game.

Folding his wings Flash plummeted downwards, he angled himself towards the fleeing Thief. Closing the distance Flash tackled the Thief from behind, sending them both tumbling across the smooth roof of the train car with Flash loosing his grip of the Thief.

They both recovered quickly and faced off, only a short distance from one another. Flash tried to gage the Thief's identity but his hood covered his face too well, Flash grit his teeth and drew his sword.

"Surrender now and you will be treated mercifully by the Three Princesses!" Flash barked.

The Thief responded by drawing his own short blade, he charged towards Flash who took a defensive stance, it was in vain as the Thief simply flipped over him and continued to run away.

"Oh no you don't!" Flash yelled, taking off after the Thief. He was just as fast and quickly caught up with the Thief, when he noticed Flash close behind him the Thief stopped abruptly and gave a spinning swing with his blade towards Flash who met it with his own sword. They struggled against each other's strength for a moment before it was clear Flash had the advantage in this regard, the Thief grinned under his hood and suddenly disengaged his blade, suddenly Flash was pushing against nothing and lost his balance.

The Thief sidestepped and took a swipe at Flash's neck who managed to just pull out of harms way, the Thief's blade caught on Flash's helmet strap and cut right through it. As Flash stepped away the helmet came off and rolled right off the train.

"Damn," Flash cursed then faced the Thief again who was simply staring at him, as Luna's moon lit up their battlefield the Thief suddenly stiffened and stood still for a solid five minutes.

"Finally come to your senses? Surrender and you won't get hurt," Flash said.

The Thief responded by sheathing his sword and just as Flash was about to demand he empty his pocket the Thief threw something towards him. Flash's eyes widened as his vision left him, all he could see was white and his ears were full of high-pitch ringing. When his senses returned the Thief was gone and all that was left was the stars and the moon.

"Buck," Flash cursed.

~~*~~

Flash stepped back into Twilight's compartment and was immediately met with a blunt pain against his cheek, it caught him so off guard that he didn't make any move to avoid the blow or retaliate. He especially didn't do the latter once Flash saw Twilight standing in front of him, her slightly wet eyes full of anger and worry.

"What we're you thinking?!" Twilight shouted, probably waking up half the train in the process. "You can't just fly off like that! Think first!"

"This is the third time you've been attacked!" Flash yelled back, miffed at being slapped. "I wasn't just going to let him get away!"

"That isn't worth just tossing yourself out like that!" Twilight countered. "What if you had gotten hurt? What if you had..."

"That's my job Twilight," Flash said. "I'm here to protect you, even if it means I can't protect myself."

"But you can't!" Twilight cried. "You can't because I... I..."

Flash blinked "You what?"

Twilight stared forward for a moment, her cheeks flushed red before she sighed in frustration and rolled her eyes.

"Oh buck it all," Twilight said, before kissing Flash full on the lips.

It took Flash a moment to get past the shock, after that all he could feel was the pressure of Twilight's lips on his, her warmth as she pressed in closer. He wrapped his hooves around her and she followed turn, they stayed locked like that for several minutes before they both reluctantly broke the kiss because of their desperate need for oxygen.

"I do too," Flash said a little breathlessly, a goofy smile plastered on his face. He nuzzled Twilight affectionately and she returned in kind, then a thought popped into Flash's head and his smile turned teasing.

"Hey, that means you made the first move, not me," he said into Twilight's ear.

"Oh shut up," she said, still smiling.

They stood like that for another two minutes or so, simply enjoying the feel of the other. They nuzzled and cuddled and shared a few more pecks before the trains whistle jerked them out of their stupor. They must have been approaching Baltimare, Twilight smile up at Flash who smiled back, he felt like he was filling with an exited warm air.

"You should get some more rest before we get to Baltimare," Flash said. "It'll be a long day."

"Yeah, but it glad you'll be there with me," Twilight said, pecking him on the cheek and reluctantly releasing Flash.

"Go on, back to bed, we talk about... Well... Everything, later," Flash said, Twilight nodded and climbed back into bed, Flash smiled at her and closed the door.

Flash's heart was racing, he felt an odd mixture of excitement and worry. Twilight Sparkle, Princess Twilight Sparkle had feelings for him, feeling that he shared! This was so right and so wrong on so many levels it felt like Flash was going to explode. First of all it was irregular that Twilight as a Princess would pursue relationship, the position wasn't hereditary so there was no need, Princess Cadence was the exception because she was the Alicorn of love. But with Twilight the nobility might claim she was trying to grab power, then again Flash wasn't very high rank, which brought in whole new problems, no doubt nobles like Forest Green would call the whole this scandalous to deface Twilight's good name, say she's sleeping around with some no-name guard.

Not to mention, Twilight's brother was Flash's boss, which terrified him to no end.

Okay, okay, calm down Flash, focus on the task at hoof. Get through this tour and then we can deal with the problems of loving a Princess. Flash took a calming breath and marched off, as vigilant as ever for anyone who would dare harm Twilight.

~~*~~

Dawn came strong as ever and illuminated Baltimare, the canal glittered in the morning sun as ships a plenty moved joyously through the water, their white sails bright and their flags sporting many different colours. Twilight had awoken an hour before and had already freshened up, she joined Flash who was looking out the window at the city, Twilight sat next to him and laid her head on his shoulder which brought a smile to his face but that smile quickly vanished.

"Uh, Twilight?" He asked.

"Hmm?" Twilight answered.

"Could we... Well... Tone it down while in public? Not that I'm ashamed or anything! I just don't want rumours to spread about you, at least not before we get back to Canterlot and... Make it official," Flash said carefully.

"Hmmm, okay, that makes sense," Twilight said then cuddled in closer and gave Flash a nuzzle. "But we're not in public yet."

"No, I guess not," Flash said with a smile.

"So, ever been to Baltimare?" Twilight said, her breath tickling Flash's fur.

"No, but... Uh..."

"What?"

"Well, the guards there are sort of a joke to the rest of us," Flash said. "Traditionally the worst guards that come out of training go here because it was always a calm city, not to mention the name they take 'Petal Guards' they're called after Lady Rose Petal whom from what I've heard isn't the most inspiring leader in the world."

"Well that's no reason to make fun of them," Twilight said. "I've always heard that Baltimare was a beautiful city and a tourist destination for the world over not to mention the flow of wealth through the canal, this will be a quick and easy visit and after we can... Talk."

Twilight said that last word in such a tone that for some reason Flash's face flushed red. He was about to say something when the train blew it's whistle and screeched to a halt, Twilight gave Flash a peck on the cheek and pulled away from him to stand by the door and wait until they could step off. In that moment Flash saw his Twilight disappear as she returned to being Princess Twilight.

The train came to a halt and the doors opened, Flash and Twilight stepped off onto the platform, the city of Baltimare wasn't grant of stunning like the other cities they had been to but the canal was beautiful and the initial atmosphere was friendly enough. The other passengers flowed off and went on their business as Flash and Twilight lingered, unsure where to go as apparently no one was there to guide them.

That was remedied as a rather rushed guard sprinted over to them, stopping just short of slamming into Twilight and heaving in big gulps of air. He was a young stallion, barely older that a colt, with armour that was clearly too big for him especially his helmet with sat lopsided on his head, over his plated armour was a cream coloured tunic with the likeness of a red flower on his chest. Flash had to hold back a laugh and managed to turn it into a still-rather-rude snort which got a look from Twilight that shut him up quick.

"Hello," Twilight said kindly. "I suppose your here to take us to your lady's manor?"

"Yes *gasp* your majesty, sorry for my *wheeze* lateness," The Petal Guard said tiredly, wiping the sweat from his brow and readjusting his overly large helmet only for it to slide back into a lopsided position again.

"Please follow me your majesty," The Petal Guard said, turning around and immediately tripping on Celestia-knows-what, he caught himself and continued on with Flash barely concealing his snicker.

As they entered Baltimare proper Twilight noticed something: there was no pony on the streets, not one, the streets were bare. Occasionally Twilight would notice movement through windows, eyes peaking through curtains only to quickly vanish again, then there were the posters and graffiti. Burn The Petal's! some read, Why follow a flower? other ones said, there were others as well all seemingly defacing the local Lady.

"How are things in Baltimare lately?" Twilight asked the Petal Guard as casually as she could but the question still clearly made the stallion uncomfortable.

"W-well uh..." He stuttered. "Ponies haven't been happy with Lady Rose Petal lately, been sayin' she's weak and doesn't deserve to run Baltimare, there's even been talk of rebellion, I always thought this was a quiet city least that's what they told me when I was assigned."

"And what's your take on the whole thing?" Twilight probed.

"Well... I like Lady Rose, she is kind to us guards and tries to be kind to the civvies as well but... She does seem to get overwhelmed sometimes and she relies a tad too much on Captain Arctic Wind for help and I suppose local folk want somepony else to run this city."

"Hmm, I see," Twilight mused, deep in her own thoughts. Flash looked at her, wonder what could possibly be going through her head.

Lady Rose Petal's manor was a humble building, made of bricks and stone with a simple shingle roof. Banners depicting the sigil of House Petal were hung almost half-heartedly along the outer walls, two sleepy Petal Guards flanked the front door and didn't even bother to open the door for them instead leaving the task to the poor young stallion that was guiding Twilight and Flash.

They entered the brightly lit manor and climbed a small set of stairs to where Lady Rose Petal was sitting. She was a petite cream-coloured unicorn with light-pink hair and a cutie mark depicting the her family sigil and Flash had to admit she was soft on the eyes but wasn't going to say that out loud, Lady Rose didn't give off an air of confidence or majesty like a Lady should rather she looked incredibly uncomfortable sitting on her throne. This was in stark contrast to the Pegasus who stood by her side who must have been Captain Arctic Wind, he was large and muscular and radiated confidence, somehow making the flower on his chest seem intimidating. Twilight and Flash approached her and bowed respectively, Twilight putting on a friendly smile to try and put Lady Petal at ease.

"Hello Lady Rose Petal, my name is Twilight Sparkle and this is my personal guard Flash Sentry," Twilight said. "I trust you've already been told why I'm here, but it seems the situation here in Baltimare isn't exactly the best for a Princess to be parading around in your streets."

"Um, yes, that is correct," Lady Rose said in a soft voice, Twilight had to strain her ears to hear what she was saying. "They are restless because... Well... Umm.." Rose Petal looked at Arctic Wind who stepped forward.

"The people are dissatisfied with My Lady's rule, a completely null complaint as she is the rightful Lady of Baltimare," Arctic Wind said stoically. "I have done all I can to placate them but unfortunately my guards are having a hard time dealing with them, but I am confident we can deal with the situation."

"Hm, I see," Twilight said thoughtfully and then looked at Rose Petal. "And what do you think my lady?"

"Well I um... I think..." Lady Petal said uncertainly before the Captain stepped in.

"My Lady has been doing her best to..."

"I believe I was asking Lady Rose," Twilight said rather harshly then softened her tone. "My Lady?"

"Well..." Rose Petal said. "Um... I know I'm not the... Most impressive Pony but I still try my hardest, it's just... I don't always know how to handle things, that's why I'm so grateful to Arctic Wind here, I don't know what I'd do without him."

"I'm glad to hear that you have someone to count on," Twilight said. "But I think we should-"

Whatever Twilight was about to say was interrupted as a Petal Guard sprinted in, falling into a clumsy bow before them as he gasped for breath.

"What is the meaning of this interruption?" Captain Arctic Wind asked angrily.

"Apologies sir," the Guard wheezed. "But a large group of angry civilians have gathered outside the manor, they are demanding to see Lady Rose Petal."

"Then you must address them My Lady," Arctic Wind said.

"Well, I suppose I could..." Rose Petal said softly.

"My Lady, perhaps I could speak to them?" Twilight asked politely. "I am here to barter better relations after all, maybe I can calm them all down."

"You cannot!" Captain Arctic Wind barked. "If My Lady does not address them then she shall appear weak and their claims will be justified, allow My Lady to do her duty as the Ruler of Baltimare and keep out of our affairs, My Lady? We should address the people now."

"Y-yes of course," Lady Rose said nervously. "If you'll excuse us."

Rose Petal slipped of her throne and followed Arctic Wind past Twilight and Flash and towards the door, Twilight lagged behind with Flash so they could speak.

"You could just order her to let you take control of the situation," Flash suggested softly.

"No Flash, we're here to bolster relations, if I bypass Lady Rose's authority than I'm no more than a political snake," Twilight stated.

"Well I hate to be so harsh but I'm afraid Lady Rose isn't very competent in her role," Flash said.

"She does rely too much on her captain I'll give you that," Twilight said. "But I refuse to accept that she's incapable of doing this."

"What makes you so certain?" Flash asked.

"Well... This will sound silly but she reminds me of a close friend," Twilight said. "Fluttershy is her name, she's shy and quiet like Lady Rose but she's also the kindest, sweetest pony I know, not to mention that when push comes to shove she's one of the bravest ponies I've ever met."

"You think Lady Rose Petal is similar?" Flash questioned.

"With the right motivation I think she can become the ruler this city needs," Twilight said.

"If you say so," Flash ceded. "But what about this Captain? Arctic Wind? You don't think he's-"

"-related to Lady Fresh Wind of Cloudsdale?" Twilight finished. "Maybe, 'Wind' isn't a common last name after all, but what does that mean about him?"

"Well call me crazy but I think our Lady of the Sky sent him here to destroy the Lady of Flowers's credibility?" Flash suggested. "I mean the nobility are often feuding, maybe this is just a calculated maneuver to have Lady Rose Petal rely on her Captain who himself reports to Lady Fresh Wind."

"Maybe," Twilight said, looking at the pair in front of her. "But I doubt it, there's some other reason at hoof."

"What makes you think that?" Flash asked.

"Call it instinct," Twilight said with a wink.

Captain Arctic lead them outside where indeed a rather large crowd had gathered, the group of rough-looking ponies seemed very upset and sone were holding signs that demonstrated the many negative slogans that Twilight had seen at her arrival. Lady Rose Petal stepped forward and looked down at the crowd with an absolutely terrified expression on her face, the crowd in turn saw this and sneered and jeered at her like a hungry pack of hyenas, Flash couldn't help but feel sorry for the poor mare. As Lady Rose was too paralyzed to speak let alone address the crowd, Captain Arctic Wind stepped forward to her defence.

"Why have you gathered here?" He demanded. "Disperse! Or martial action will be taken!" Evidentially what little Petal guards that had bothered to show up seemed more terrified than Lady Rose at the idea of fighting the mob.

"We don't answer to you!" A voice in the crowd yelled.

"Yeah!" Another confirmed. "Let the Lady speak if she can! Or is she too frail to address the trials of her people!"

"You dare insult Our Lady?!" Arctic yelled back angrily. "Why you indolent peasants.."

"Excuse me!" Twilight interrupted, stepping forward and getting everyone's attention at once. "I'm sorry to interrupt but I cannot allow this to go any further, I am Princess Twilight Sparkle, the Alicorn of Friendship, maybe I can address your grievances?"

There was muttering in the crowd as they absorbed the information, meanwhile Twilight gave a comforting smile to Lady Rose Petal who managed a smile in return. Twilight turned back to the crowd and addressed them in a soft but firm tone.

"What issues do you have with Lady Rose Petal's rule of Baltimare?" She asked, there was a pause of a few seconds before anyone responded.

"She is weak!" One stallion proclaimed. "She cannot solve the simplest of issues! Instead she gives the rule of the city over to that tyrant of a captain! He's punishments are harsh and they come down on the pettiest of crooks because that's all those idiot guards can catch! Year after year the worst of the guards are dumbed on us and we suffer for it! Not only can they not catch a criminal worth shit but the whole lot of them are drunken fiends themselves! Just last week a poor barmaid had herself soiled and her throat cut by a group of 'em! And what does our 'Lady of Flowers' do? Nothing!"

"Hm, I see," Twilight said and looked at Lady Rose. "These are legitimate concerned my lady."

"W-well I..." Rose Petal stuttered.

"Even still," Twilight continued, addressing the crowd once again. "Has Lady Rose Petal ever done you wrong personally?"

"Well... No," the stallion ceded.

"Exactly but still the problems remain," Twilight said. "I ask you as your Princess to give your Lady until this afternoon to address these problems, gather here again at one-o-clock and she shall tell you her solution."

There was some muffled confirmation from the crowd and they quickly dispersed, Twilight lead their little group inside with Lady Rose Petal seeming grateful.

"Thank you for your help your majesty," she said softly. "But I still have no idea what to do when they come back."

"Oh I'm sure it'll come to you," Twilight said with a smile. "But first I think I need to go for a nice walk, hmm, Flash? Why don't you keep Lady Rose company? Captain Arctic Wind can come with me."

Flash gave Twilight a look and she responded with a wink, Flash relented and stepped over to Lady Rose as Captain Arctic followed Twilight down a random hallway.

"So," Twilight said casually as they were out of earshot. "How did you come to meet Lady Rose Petal?"

"I was travelling on behest of my sister, Lady Fresh Wind of Cloudsdale," the Captain said, confirming Twilight's suspicions. "We became friends and once I left I decided to come back and serve by her side."

"And that's the only reason you came back?" Twilight asked.

"Yes?" Arctic Wind said, albeit unsurely.

"Okay, because it just seemed to me that there might be something else to it," Twilight said casually, looking carefully at the Captain. "Is there?"

"I..." Arctic stuttered. "I suppose there is."

"Right, so you know why you came back," Twilight stated. "But does she know?"

"...no, she doesn't."

"Right, of course," Twilight said. "And that's fine if that's what you want, but just as I told Flash I think Lady Rose needs the right push, the right motivation, don't you agree?"

"I think your right," Arctic Wind said. "But... Are you sure I should?"

"I am, trust me," Twilight said. "I know friendship, this isn't it, this is something more and I think you need to let Rose Petal know that."

"Your right," Arctic Wind ceded.

~~*~~

Twilight and the Captain walked back into the main hall, Lady Rose Petal was sitting back on her throne and Flash was off to the side being awkward. Twilight went over and stood by Flash who gave her a questioning look, Twilight just shook her head and pointed over to Arctic Wind as he stood before Lady Rose and knelt.

"My Lady," he said.

"Captain Arctic Wind?" Lady Petal said in confusion.

"My Lady I have served you for three years now and I will not deny that they have been some of the best years of my life," Arctic Wind said, keeping his head down. "Despite the condition of this city and the frankly the incompetent guards I must command I still found pleasure in being here, and that was because I was was at your side. My Lady I should have supported you rather than taking your burden for you, but if you still have me I shall do that now, I understand if you do not accept me but please do not cast me from your side as it would deny me the only thing that has made me happy for a very long time."

Lady Rose Petal sat in shock, staring down at Arctic Wind. There was a frustrating silence for a solid two minutes before Lady Rose climbed down from her throne and took Arctic Wind's head in her hooves before kissing him right there and then, when they parted Rose Petal had tears in her eyes.

"I love you too," she said softly. Twilight smiled and glanced at Flash who's jaw had dropped and a completely dumbfounded look on his face, Twilight giggled at him and Flash closed his jaw quick and looked slightly embarrassed.

Lady Rose Petal released Arctic from her grasp and looked up with a determined gleam in her eye, her soft tone was still present but now with the distinctive touch of confidence.

"Summon everyone who finds issue with my rule now, I wish to address my people."

A crowd larger than the mob before had gathered outside Lady Rose Petal's manor, Lady Rose stood before them with her head held tall and with Arctic Wind standing nearby.

"My friends," Lady Rose began. "I have heard your pleas and have come to a solution, immediately I shall send a request to Canterlot for more experienced guards to be sent and for a new training fort be set up within my county to retrain our own Petal Guards, I shall make it my priority to turn the city back into the peaceful haven that it once was!"

The crowd gave a round of applause and gleeful cheers, Lady Rose gave a smile to the crowd and a loving look to Arctic Wind. Twilight and Flash stood in the sidelines, content to not interrupt the moment.

"How'd you know Arctic had feelings for Lady Rose Petal?" Flash asked.

"I'm surprised you didn't notice yourself," Twilight said. "Didn't you notice how defensive he was of Lady Rose? He reminded me a bit of you actually."

"What? No way!" Flash exclaimed.

"It's true!" Twilight giggled. "But that's not all, there was something else... When those two were near each other I felt something, something I've felt before when I I'm with my friends or... When I'm with you, it's was like a spell or something but somehow I just knew what Arctic's feelings were."

"You sensed his love?" Flash asked incredulously. "But... Aren't you the Princess of Friendship? Isn't love Princess Cadence's thing?"

"Well friendship is just love in a different form," Twilight said as Lady Rose and Arctic Wind approached them.

"Thank you your majesty," Arctic Wind said. "For your... Advise earlier, you've done us and this city good."

"I'm glad I could help," Twilight said with a smile.

"I'll have a guard show to your room," Lady Rose Petal said. "I believe the people trust you enough now after all you have done don't you?"

"Yes, I think we can move on tomorrow," Twilight said. "Thank you for your hospitality."

Flash and Twilight were lead by their clumsy guard to a room inside the manor, the young Petal Guard bid them farewell. Twilight dragged Flash inside the room and closed the door, she then proceeded to magically remove Flash's Cape and armour she then pulled herself and Flash under the covers of the bed where Twilight snuggled up close to Flash.

"So," Flash said.

"So," Twilight said back.

"This is weird, but nice," Flash stated.

"Yeah," Twilight agreed.

"So how're we going to go about this?" Flash asked.

"Well, I've been thinking about that," Twilight said. "I agree with you that we should keep this between us at least until we get back to Canterlot, then I think we can make it known that we're... Together."

"Sounds like a plan," Flash answered, there was a pause. "So Twi? About today..."

"Hm?" Twilight answered sleepily.

"Well other than handling that whole situation brilliantly I was wondering something," Flash began. "You said you... Sensed the love between Arctic Wind and Lady Rose Petal, I was wondering if you felt that between us as well?"

"Hm, yes, I think so," Twilight said. "The thing I felt between those two was the same feeling I feel in myself when I'm around you, only it was like it was radiating off of them instead of inside me."

"Well that confirms it then," Flash said.

"Confirms what?" Twilight asked.

"if your weird Princessy powers say we're in love than it must be true," Flash said happily, giving Twilight a squeeze. "I love you, Twi."

Twilight's breath caught in her throat and her chest tightened, just those words themselves made her feel happy and sad at the same time and she squeezed Flash back.

"I love you too Flash," she said, drifting off to sleep in his arms.

Chapter 12~ What Happens in Las Pegasus...

Chapter 12~ What Happens in Las Pegasus...

They only had time for three hours of sleep.

Las Pegasus was on the complete opposite side of Equestria, by train it would take almost seven hours to get there. So to arrive by sunrise they had to wake at ten and leave almost immediately, sleepily making their way to the train and getting situated before falling asleep again. Flash only allowed himself an hour long nap before slipping stealthily from his shared bed with Twilight, donned his armour and patrolled dutifully for the majority of the night. After the thief had intruded last night Flash was taking no chances with Twilight's safety, so he only returned to bed when they were an hour away from their location.

Twilight woke him as they were approaching Las Pegasus, it was still dark out so the bright magical lights twinkled like stars against the cloudy night sky. All of them highlighting different casinos, restaurants, bars, and more... Unsavoury places, Flash had mixed feelings about the city. On one hoof one could have tons of innocent fun in the city, on the other Las Pegasus was famous for draining your pockets dry and leaving ponies impoverished on the streets after too many rounds of Caravan or Appaloosa Hold Em, Flash expressed as much to Twilight.

"True and we should both be careful but all those gamblers has brought House Shine a lot of money and power so maybe there's some merit to it?"

"Maybe too rich and too powerful," Flash said. "I feel like it's taking advantage of Ponies, besides I don't trust those Shine Guards. Somehow Lady Star Shine was able to swindle her way into gaining her own personal guard force that isn't trained or even recruited by Canterlot, they're all locals and take their oath to House Shine not Celestia."

"I'm sure she earned it, besides, training and recruiting locally is more efficient than all the guards going through Canterlot first," Twilight said.

"If you say so," Flash said, unconvinced.

The train pulled into the station not soon after, Flash and Twilight stepped off and were immediately greeted by a trio of Shine guards. They're were clad in golden armour but unlike the typical Royal garb their's was patterned with scales, their capes were also gold with a twinkling black star that was House Shine's sigil.

"Your Majesty, your are most welcome," one of the Shine's said as the three of them bowed respectfully. "Lady Star Shine is eagerly awaiting you, please come, we mustn't keep her waiting."

They fell in behind the three Shine Guards as they lead Twilight and Flash through the city, with Flash eyeing the three Shine's with distrust the entire time. The magically lit signs illuminated the wide streets of Las Pegasus, everywhere hundreds of ponies- mostly stallions -were staggering drunk through the streets or running with triumph because of their luck at some gamble. Flash eyed each of them with suspicion and slight disgust, a former thief he was but such sinful behaviour would have gotten you a beating at Fort Snowhawk.

They came onto the main strip of Las Pegasus, it was the widest street so far and the most jam packed of casinos, bars, and even brothels. At the end of the street stood Lady Star Shine's holdfast, a tall marble castle with a high iron gate and several pointed towers, the layout of the hold was strangely familiar but Flash couldn't place it, but Twilight recognized it.

"Is it just me or does it look like the Royal Palace?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, it does," Flash said, seeing it now. "Only with Shine colours."

They were escorted to the large front double doors where two more Shine Guards opened it for them and they entered the main hall. It was arguably more lavish and impressive than the Castle of the Two Princesses, with polished floors and a high ceiling, there was also an assortment of statues, weapons, books and other ancient looking artifacts on display some of which glowed with magical enchantments.

Lady Star Shine sat on a chair that was very much like Celestia's throne, she was flanked by two unicorn stallions on either side. One dressed like a Shine Guard who was scarred and rough-looking. The other wore a steel breastplate and greaves with a Shine cloak draped over his back and a long broadsword at his hip. Lady Star Shine herself was a young looking unicorn with a golden mane that was styled beautifully and dandelion fur that was brushed to a gloss, her eyes were gold as well and didn't reflect the plastered smile she wore on her face. Star Shine was clad in a intricate gold dress that had the black star of House Shine patterned across it. The three Shine Guards approached and bowed with the middle one speaking up, introducing Twilight and Flash before bowing again and leaving.

"It's an honour to meet you, Lady Star," Twilight said stepping forward.

"The honour is all mine, Your Grace," Lady Star Shine said, rising from her throne. "I hope your trip across Equestria has been enjoyable? The other nobles treated you well?"

"It has been... Interesting," Twilight said lightly. "A few bumps along the way but nothing major."

"I'm glad to hear it, some of the other houses can be simply barbaric, I hear the Green's hunt the animal inhabitants of their forest for sport and the Winter's I hear lie with dogs."

"Well... I have only met Lord Forest out of those two but I'm sure those are just rumours your hearing, My Lady," Twilight said slowly.

"Yes, just harmless gossip, Your Grace," Lady Shine said, suddenly the stallion behind her in the steel breastplate cleared his throat.

"Ah yes, may I also introduce my brother Ser Sun Shine, one of the Knights of Two... Well I suppose he's a knight of three now," Star Shine said, Flash perked up at the mention of the knightly order. Ser Sun Shine looked like Lady Star Shine in many ways, he had the same golden mane and dandelion fur, his eyes were like two bright yellow suns.

"An honour, your majesty," the Knight said with a bow.

"It's a pleasure, sir," Twilight said respectfully.

"Yes, now that's we've exchanged pleasantries won't you break fast with us? I myself am simply famished," Lady Shine said.

"Of course, I would be honoured Lady Star," Twilight said smoothly.

"Do follow," Star Shine said and lead them through a side door. They came through a hallway that lead into the dining room, a long table adorned with a crisp white table cloth awaited them. Once they sat down servants flowed in and placed plates full of fruit, hay, and vegetables in front of them, one filled all their mugs with rich black coffee that was clearly straight from Saddle Arabia.

"So, your majesty," Star Shine said conversationally. "What do you think of my city?"

"Well it's very beautiful, My Lady," Twilight said. "Especially considering your recent incident."

"Ah, you heard heard about that," Star Shine with a slightly strained smile. "What do you know?"

"Only that all of Las Pegasus' treasury was stolen overnight and left the whole city teetering on economic collapse," Twilight said.

"This is true, but there is more to the story," Lady Star said. "In truth the treasury was stolen by a traitor, my bastard older brother Golden Shine."

"Really!" Twilight said in surprise. "I didn't know that."

"No doubt it will be common knowledge soon enough, secrets don't often stay that way for long," Lady Star said solemnly. "He had always been the oddball but he was family, to think he would do such a thing..."

"Where is he now?"

"No doubt fled to Prance, or maybe Saddle Arabia, somewhere out of our reach," Lady Star Shine said. "No matter, he is nothing but a bad memory now, it is all I can do to make sure this city recovers from all this."

"Well I must say you've done an amazing job My Lady," Twilight complemented genuinely.

"Perhaps you'd like to see more of the city? My brother can show you around the key spots but I'm afraid I cannot accompany you as I have business to attend to."

"I understand," Twilight said, rising.

After they finished they said their goodbyes to Lady Star and then followed Ser Sun Shine out of the mansion and out into the bustling streets of Las Pegasus. They were immediately joined by a pair of Shine Guards who parted the way for them as Ser Sun fell back in line next to Twilight.

"It is a great honour to have you here, Your Majesty," the Knight said with a charming smile. "As you know, now the Knights of the Two become Knights of Three, I serve you as well."

"How long have you been a knight Ser Sun?" Twilight asked smiling back.

"Oh four years now," Sun Shine said. "And please, just call me 'Sun'"

"Of course," Twilight said, a slight touch of pink to her cheeks that made Flash grind his teeth but he forced himself to remain silent.

Ser Sun lead them down the main strip, they passed wealthy casinos, restaurants, and other sights. It seemed they were headed for a specific location, they turned a few corners and were lead down another wide street until coming to the steps of a wide-based marble building. Stain glass windows lined the sides and several banners flew from the ramparts.

"Welcome to the Las Pegasus Museum of Art," Sun Shine announced, he then hooked his front leg with Twilight's forcing Flash to swallow an angry growl, instead he just put a sour look on his face as Ser Sun lead Twi into the museum.

"Wow," Twilight gasped as she entered the museum, statues, beautiful paintings, and other works of art lined the walls of the museum. "Look there! That's The Weeping Pegasus! And there is Streets of Trottingham! I've only seen replica drawings!"

"Yes, our collection is only rivalled by the Royal Canterlot Museum of Art but I still think we hold some key pieces," Sun Shine said with a smile, he guided Twilight with a close hoof and Flash followed grumpily behind.

He didn't like Ser Sun Shine, knight or not Flash hated the way he smiled at Twilight, how he touched her and she allowed him to touch her. Flash tried hard to convince himself that Twi was just playing the part, why would a Princess with no romantic partner block the advances of a prestigious Knight of Three? Yes it would rouse suspicion if Twilight did so. Yet it didn't matter, Flash had very suddenly lost all respect for Ser Sun and his entire House.

They perused the art museums for another few hours, it was huge and there was much to see. Twilight didn't seem to get enough of it as she gushed over every piece of art that they passed, Flash on the other hand just grumbled internally but forced himself to play the part of dutiful guard. They had agreed to keep their relationship between them for now, but that didn't mean Flash had to like it.

Sun Shine invited Twilight to lunch and she graciously accepted, the knight led them out of the museum and to a fancy restaurant by the name of The Golden Stallion. The owner personally greeted Twilight and insisted on giving her the seat of honour despite her stating that any table would be fine. A waiter seated Ser Sun and Twilight at the centred table where they were on display for all to see, Flash was made to wait with the Shine Guards; standing by the far wall where they could watch their charges enjoy their meal.

"So, your majesty," Sun Shine began, taking a sip from his wine cup which a waiter had just filled. "What can you tell me about yourself?"

"About myself?" Twilight asked, taking a sip from her own wine without thinking. She hadn't tasted wine before, besides that moment in Manehatten but she really hadn't tasted the wine then so it didn't count. It was tart, fruity, and I'd left a buzz down Twilight's throat as she swallowed, she liked it.

"Yes of course, as I am now a Knight of Three I serve you as well as Princess Celestia and Luna, I would like to know about whom I serve," Sun Shine said with a smile.

"Well, I'm not all that interesting really," Twilight said, taking a bigger gulp of wine.

"Oh I find that hard to believe," Sun said charmingly. "Go on, how about where your from? I know you live in Ponyville now but where were you born?"

"Oh I was born in Canterlot," Twilight said. "My father was Nightlight Sparkle, he was a Knight of Two before he passed on, maybe you knew him?"

"Knew him?" Ser Sun asked incredulously. "Why, he was the one who offered me his position as a Knight! He was a good stallion."

"That he was and what a coincidence that you'd have met him in such a way," Twilight said, drinking more wine.

Flash watched them talk and eat the entire time, growing more and more concerned by the minute. Not by Sun Shine's constant and obvious flirting with Twilight~ Although that still caused an anger hotter than Celestia's spit to settle in his stomach ~No it was the fact that Twilight had already had three cups of wine and was starting a fourth. Flash already knew from Manehatten that Twi couldn't hold her liquor very well, but it wasn't as if he could march down there and cut her off, no he would have to reside to hoping no trouble would come of it.

They finished dinner and Sun Shine lead them out of the restaurant, a slightly tipsy Twilight following closely. They toured the streets of Las Pegasus, Ser Sun pointed out key attractions. Prance Las Pegasus, The Las Pegasus Springs Preserve, and other landmarks. They toured for almost five hours, to a point where the flashing magical lights and constant noise what beginning to give Flash a headache.

The sun was beginning to dip down towards the horizon when they made their way back to the Shine mansion. Twilight at this point had drunk even more wine and had a slight stagger to her step, she giggled and blushed a lot especially when Sun Shine complemented her. It took every ounce of Flash's will not to brutally murder one of the Princesses trusted Knights.

"I must thank you for a wonderful tour, Sun," Twilight said as they were climbing the steps to the mansion. "Las Pegasus is a beautiful city."

"Not as beautiful as you, My Lady," Sun Shine said, picking up her hoof and planting a kiss on it. As he lifted his head again the knight caught Flash's look of pure fury, Sun lowered his mouth to Twilight's ear and spoke just loudly enough so both her and Flash could hear.

"I don't think your guard likes me very much," he said.

Somewhere in Twilight's wine addled brain she remembered her loving guard that had watched her blush and giggle over this knight before her for several hours. With the most casual smile she could muster Twilight stepped away from Sun Shine and towards Flash, turning his angry frown into a small grin of victory.

"Oh, he's just very protective of me," Twilight said. Sun Shine's eyes darted between the two before a knowing look bloomed in them.

"Ah I see," he said. "Apologies, please my sister will want you to join her for dinner, we shouldn't keep her waiting."

When they entered the dining hall Lady Star Shine was already waiting for them, she locked eyes with her brother who gave a small almost imperceptible shake of his head. Star Shine's smile wavered for a moment before she recovered just in time to welcome Twilight and Flash with a beaming expression.

"Welcome back, Your Majesty," she greeted as they sat down, immediately being served plates of finely roasted hay, fruits, and of course more wine. "How did you enjoy the tour?"

"It was wonderful, My Lady," Twilight said. "Your city lives up to its reputation of beauty and prosperity."

"I would hope so, I have worked hard to keep it that way," Star said. There was a pause where everyone ate in silence for a few moments before Lady Star broke it.

"I hope my hospitality has been pleasing to you, Your Grace," she said.

"Oh yes, you've been a most welcoming host," Twilight said, sipping her wine.

"Yes, just know that House Shine is loyal to the Three Princesses and should you ever need an ally I shall definitely be that Pony, in return I hope you'll do the same for me," Lady Star said, watching Twilight's face carefully.

"I would happily help House Shine should it ever need it," Twilight said with a slight slur. "It is my duty as a Princess after all."

They bid Lady Star Shine a good night and headed back to their room, Twilight was very drunk at this point. She staggered and tripped and used Flash for support as he guided her to her room, all the while she spoke huskily into his ear.

"I'm sorry about how I acted today," she said. "With Sun Shine that is, but I can make it up to you tonight."

"Your wings are so soft, I just want to use them as a pillow."

Flash was practically sweating by the time he pushed the door open to Twilights room, he laid her down on the bed and made for a hasty retreat but was halted by Twi's magical grip on his tail.

"And where do you think your going?" She said with a giggle. "Your Princess demand your presence in her bed all night long."

"No," Flash said, biting his lip and pulling against her magic.

"No?!" Twilight repeated.

"Your drunk, I'm not... We're not... Not while your drunk, just go to sleep Twilight, you'll need it for tomorrow."

Twilight pouted for a moment but reluctantly released Flash's tail, she fell back down on the bed and immediately began snoring. Flash took a steadying breath and left the room, he shook his distracted mind clear and made to begin patrolling the halls, trying to think of something, anything, to take his mind off the Alicorn lying in the room.

Chapter 13~ We Ride North

Chapter 13~ We Ride North

Flash let Twilight sleep soundly for several hours before he gathered her up as gently as he could and carried her to the midnight train, the trip to Vanhoover would take almost two days so he hoped she would be over the massive hangover she was bound to have. Flash laid her down on the train seat and watched her slumber peacefully for a moment before he allowed himself to close his eyes and drift off.

When he woke again it was late morning the next day and Twilight was gone, after a brief moment of panic Flash came to his senses. He got up and exited the compartment, he moved down the hall and soon enough the sound of gasping and retching could be heard. In a small cubby meant to be a washroom Twilight stood with her head almost completely in the bucket, as Flash watched she retched again and emptied her stomach's bile into the bucket.

Flash rubbed his hood along her back in sympathy, trying to sooth her but Twilight didn't seem to notice. She just retched and puked until there was nothing left and then puked some more, eventually she did pull her head up and leaned heavily on Flash, her bloodshot eyes glassy in her half-asleep state. Flash half-guided, half-carried Twilight back to the compartment and laid her down, he closed the blinds on the window and fetched a blanket out of a nearby linen closet and tucked her in. Twilight fell asleep at once, Flash hoped she could recover from her hangover before they reached Vanhoover, it wouldn't do well to meet Lord Winter post drunk. Twi didn't sleep long, she groaned awake and rubbed her temples in agony.

"How're you feeling?" Flash asked.

"Like buffalo-shit," Twilight cussed. "My head is pounding and my stomach feels like an angry viper moved in."

"You should watch your drinking from now on," Flash advised. "I didn't realize you were such a lightweight."

"Really? I really didn't think of that on my own," Twilight quipped sarcastically. "I'm so glad I have you watching over me."

Flash grinned and climbed in next to Twi, he extended his wing to encompass her and planted a kiss atop her head. Laying his head across the back of her neck and held her close, nuzzling and cuddling her.

"Feeling better?" Flash asked.

"No," Twilight lied, nuzzling in return.

They remained that way for a while, Twilight dozed off quickly enough and Flash remained awake. Keeping her comfortable and watching the landscape go by, the snow and ice increasing as they headed farther north. Twi woke a few times to eat a small breakfast and a lunch before falling asleep again, Flash joining in this time. When they woke again it the sky was darkening as Celestia pulled the sun towards the horizon, Twilight seemed a lot better, still woozy but better. They remained under the blanket still even after the moon came out and the stars shined down on them, it was then that Flash had a thought.

"Hey," he said suddenly, getting up. "I want to show you something."

Flash led an uncomplaining Twilight towards the back of the train, they exited the caboose onto a small platform on the back. Twi shivered at first before Flash kept her warm with a comforting wing, it was then that she looked up.

"Oh wow," she gasped. Above them, contrasting against the night sky were beautiful shining waves of colours, like rainbow rivers they danced across they sky. Tumbling and twirling in a great cosmic dance, like the Gods were putting on a show just for them.

"The Lights of Borea," Flash said. "We saw them almost every night at Snowhawk, I thought you might like them."

"Wow, light created from collisions between gaseous particles in the atmosphere with charged particles released from the sun's atmosphere that create small bursts of magic that arc between the gas particles creating bright and varying lights," Twilight rambled off, getting a laugh from Flash.

"You're such a nerd," he laughed.

"Meathead," Twilight countered, poking Flash in the ribs none too gently. "Still, thanks for this and... For yesterday too."

"What about yesterday?" Flash asked.

"I remember what happened, when I was drunk I... Came on to you right?" Twilight said. "Well after I was done flirting with Ser Sun Shine."

"Hey it ain't your fault, you just drank too much."

"Oh but it is though, I should've stopped myself earlier oh I didn't even realize what I was doing! It's just Ser Sun was being so nice! and then I wanted to make it up to you and-" Twilight's worried tirade was stopped by Flash's gentle lips on her own.

"Stop it," Flash said softly, pulling away. "It's fine, I'm fine, we're fine, and I want you to be fine okay?"

"Alright," Twilight smiled, nuzzling him. "I'm fine."

"Good, now let's go inside before you catch a cold."

They went back inside and rested in their compartment for the remainder of the day, catching up on some much-needed sleep. Flash only left at night to patrol the train, still very paranoid about Twilight's safety. He only joined her again when it was nearing sunrise, they awoke again soon afterwords as they were approaching Vanhoover. Twilight had fetched herself a heavy satin cloak with feathers that warmed her neck, it was cold this far north after all.

Vanhoover came into view, a large collection of stone and wood buildings gathered around a large and imposing keep, the entire city enclosed in tall stone walls with the banner of House Winter flying from the ramparts. Two swords crossed behind a white snowflake laying on a blue field, familiar colours to Flash as he often had to travel to Vanhoover to carry messages from Snowhawk.

"Guess this is kind of a second home to you huh?" Twilight asked, cuddling up to Flash by the window.

"I guess so, I wasn't here often only when we needed to run messages or get supplies," Flash said. "Mostly I just stayed at the Fort."

"Still, do you know anything about Lord Harsh Winter?" Twilight asked.

"I've heard he's sort of... Old fashioned but not in the regular way, apparently he's a big advocate of the old religions and northern traditions, not anything too barbarous I don't think but it has sparked some rumours about him and his family."

"Lady Star Shine seemed to believe those rumours if I remember correctly," Twi commented. "Well I'm not going to judge him before I even meet him."

The train pulled itself into the station, pushing great waves of snow of of it's way before coming to a halt on the northernmost Equestrian train track there was. They stepped off onto the platform were two Winter Guards were waiting, their fur-lined leather armour and blue cloaks making them look like true Snowhawks.

"Lady Twilight," one of them acknowledged as they both bowed. "Lord Winter has eagerly awaited your arrival." As they rose one of them took notice of Flash's cloak and smiled.

"Always glad to see a fellow Snowhawk, sir," he said.

"Likewise now please lead us to the holdfast, Our Lady is cold."

The two guards nodded and lead them into Vanhoover proper, the streets were wide and coated in a fresh layer of snow. The northerners moved to and fro wrapped in furs and warm layers to fight off the cold, as Twilight passed they would stop in their tracks and bow to her until she passed. It wasn't long until they reached Lord Winter's holdfast, a tall stone structure with tall windows and the banners of House Winter flying proudly.

The Winter Guards pushed open the huge double doors and let Twilight and Flash into the hall, inside was warm and bright from large braziers that burned hotly, statues lined the alps of proud-looking stallions with forlorn faces that seemed to stare at the newcomers. At the end of the hall was supposedly Lord Winter's throne, an iron thing with a tall back and intricate carvings. It sat empty.

"Lord Winter is awaiting you in his grove, Your Grace," one of the guards said. "This way."

The guard led them past the throne and through a side door, from there it was a small walk down a hallway where it opened up to a walled off open section of the holdfast. There they stood on hard frozen dirt that was dotted with bare skeletons of trees, a clear pool was in the centre next to the largest tree in the grove. Sitting by the tree, wrapped in fine furs and leathers was Lord Harsh Winter, he was a pale white Pegasus with a thick wild black mane and full beard. He didn't seem to notice the newcomers, his eyes were closed in what appeared to be a silent reflection or prayer.

They approached him but no one said anything, it seemed disrespectful to interrupt. They only had to wait a minute or so anyway before Lord Winter opened his eyes revealing bright blue eyes, he looked up from the ground at at Twilight directly.

"Leave us," he said to the guard, the stallion bowed and left the grove. Lord Harsh Winter stood up from his position and approached Twilight, he bowed and gently raised her hood to his lips and planted a brief kiss on it before rising, Flash surprisingly found himself not caring, Lord Winter gave no indication that he was trying to woo Twilight over.

"It's an honour Your Grace," Harsh Winter said. "Welcome to Vanhoover."

"Thank you My Lord," Twilight said.

"I hope your travels were pleasant My Lady," Lord Winter said, beginning to slowly trot through the grove, Twilight and Flash followed slowly.

"It's been... Interesting," Twilight said.

"I can imagine," Lord Harsh said. "Still, I am glad you came here Your Majesty, Vanhoover is often overlooked in Equestria's game of thrones."

"Well I think your just as important as anyone," Twilight complimented. "Vanhoover has a very unique culture and you provide security in the north."

"It's good someone knows this, nevertheless we are a strong people and-"

"Father!" Interrupted a small voice interrupted, a small white Pegasus colt bounded into the grove. He was a spitting image of Lord Winter, pure white coat and messy black mane, the only difference was his dark amber eyes.

"Coldy hid my sword!" The colt exclaimed. "And he won't give it back!"

Lord Winter gave out a small tired sigh that was so similar to what her own father did when she and her brother fought that it brought a smile to Twilight's face.

"White," Harsh Winter said slowly. "Bow to the Princess please and apologize for interrupting."

"Oh!" White Winter gasped, looking at Twilight with wide eyes before falling into a bow. "Sorry for interrupting Your Grace, it was rude of me."

"It's okay, child," Twilight laughed, ruffling the colts mane. "You said your brother took your sword?"

"That's right!" White exclaimed, rising. "I need it to train to be a knight!"

"Well you best go get your sword back, you can't be a knight without a sword."

"Thanks Your Grace!" White Winter. "I'll go get my sword and train hard! Then when I'm older I can come and be your knight!"

"I look forward to it," Twilight giggled as the lordling bounded off.

"I apologize for that," Lord Winter said. "My son gets eccentric sometimes."

"I understand," Twilight said with a smile. "You have many children?"

"Two and a third along the way," Harsh Winter answered. "White, the youngest, Cold Winter who is my heir and the unborn one is a filly we decided we are going to name Snowy Winter."

"Well I'm glad you don't let your position as Lord ruin your relationship with your family," Twilight said.

"It hasn't been easy but we manage," Lord Winter stated. "Anyway, we have much to discuss... And I would rather do so alone?"

Flash raised an eyebrow but Twilight smiled in understanding, she gestured for Flash to go.

"It's fine," she said and Flash reluctantly turned away and exited the grove, the trees seeming to watch him as he went.

Flash came out of the holdfast differently then when he entered, through a side door that lead to an enclosed courtyard that was next to the keep. In it several Winter Guards sparred with training dummies and each other, the Lord's blacksmith hammered away in his open workshop, repairing swords and crafting other necessities. Flash decided to sit down on the steps and observe the Winter's train.

They fought like true northerners, every strike full of passion and ferocity enough to break bone or cleave a stallion in half. However as Flash watched he noticed a pattern, the guards tended to tire quickly, throwing all their energy into every strike. Additionally the wild and wide-swinging technique suited individual battles sure but was ill-equipped for any sort of close formation tactic.

Flash's thoughts were interrupted as a familiar colt came bounding into the courtyard from Celestia-Knows-Where, White Winter held a shirt wooden sword in his mouth that must have been the one he had mentioned before. He looked around before his amber eyes rested on Flash and he ran over.

"Hi!" He said, planting the wooden sword tip-first into the ground.

"Hullo, White Winter isn't it?" Flash asked.

"That's right! And you're Princess Twilight's knight aren't you?"

"Knight?" Flash asked in surprise. "I'm her personal guard, I'm no knight."

"Really? But you look so much like a knight! Cape, armour, sword, everything! And you serve a Princess so that makes you a knight doesn't it?"

"Well there's a tad more to it then that, to be a knight you have to be a really good fighter, and show that you're one-hundred-percent dedicated to not just one but all three of the Princesses."

"But hasn't you done both of those?" White asked. "Your a Snowhawk so clearly your a good fighter and you are serving a princess as a protector for one princess so why don't you just serve the other two and become a knight?"

"Well I certainly would like to do that, but wether or not I actually become a knight it entirely up to the princesses."

"So couldn't Princess Twilight make you a knight?"

"Well I suppose she could-"

"Well why don't you just ask her?" White Winter said with flawless child logic. "Don't you want to become a knight?"

"Actually I've wanted to be knight since I was your age," Flash said. "But I can't just ask her to make me a knight, that would be rude and would be asking too much."

"It would?" White asked sadly. "Because I was going to ask her."

"I think it's a better idea to train hard and serve well and maybe Princess Twilight or one of the other princesses will see fit to make you a knight."

"Really? You think so?" White asked hopefully.

"Definitely," Flash said.

"Now you shouldn't give him false hope," a new voice said, Flash turned and saw a teenage Pegasus colt entering the courtyard. He dark brown coat and a chocolate mane that lay flat on his head, his eyes though we're the icy blue colour of his fathers.

"Lord Cold Winter," Flash acknowledged, giving a respectful nod.

"You must be Princess Twilight's guard yes?" Cold Winter asked.

"Correct, she is meeting with your father as we speak."

"Hm, and what can you tell me about what she plans on doing with us?"

"Doing?"

"Yes, she is a new Princess, a new southern princess," Cold said. "Long have the ponies of the north feared that these southern princesses would eventually destroy our individuality, our unique culture, I wonder if this new princess might be the final straw."

"What?" Flash asked in confusion. "No, nothing like that, the Princess is only interesting in working with your father, in fact she is fascinated by the northern culture."

"We'll see," Cold Winter. "Come along White, you have chores to do."

"But Coooolllldddyyy..." White Winter whined. "We were talking about becoming Knights!"

"I've told you before brother, you're not becoming some flashy knight in service to the south, you're going to stay here and train at Fort Snowhawk, you can serve beside me when I rule over Vanhoover."

"But I want to be a knight! To serve Princess Twilight! Why is that so bad?" White Winter asked.

"Because why would you want to serve some southern wench-"

"Excuse me," Flash interrupted, standing up. "But you will not talk about the Princess that way."

"And why shouldn't I?" Cold Winter said haughtily. "She is a south-born, she knows nothing of winter or the harshness of the north, why should I respect her or recognize her authority?"

"Watch it," Flash warned, taking an angry step forward. "Or else you'll see how harsh the south can really be."

"Is that a challenge?" Cold Winter answered, pushing his forehead against Flash's. They matched muscle for muscle for a few moments before they both broke it at the same time.

"Sword! Give me my sword!" The Lordling called and one of the servants came forth with a sheathed blade, Cold Winter drew the sword, a shorter heavier blade used for crushing the bones beneath the armour of the enemy.

Flash drew his longer lighter sword and the two warriors stood off against each other, White Winter watched in amazement as if the whole thing was a show. Flash knew better as Cold Winter's eyes blazed with pride and passion, clearly we was committed to this.

"Just back down," Flash said calmly. "We don't have to do this."

The lordling didn't listen, he jumped forward with a heavy overhead strike. Flash blocked it and redirected it to the side, Cold Winter recovered from it and began making rapid blows against Flash who blocked every one. He then went on the offensive and they began trading mutual blows with no one gaining any ground, they locked blades and eyes as they're strength matched out. Cold Winter disengaged unexpectedly, he aimed a wide swinging blow that would have caught Flash off guard if it wasn't for the interruption of a surprisingly authoritative voice that boomed across the courtyard.

"STOP THIS IN THE NAME OF YOUR PRINCESS!" Twilight's Royal Canterlot voice echoed through the air, it distracted Cold Winter so his strike list momentum and his sword fell uselessly into the dirt. The authority in the Princesses voice, look, and presence forced both warriors to stoop to a kneel and bow their heads as if possessed, Flash glanced over at his opponent and saw the lordling was half embarrassed half terrified.

"What is the meaning of this?" Twilight demanded with a harsh tone, as she decended the steps with a furious Lord Winter at her side. "Well? Speak up."

"Your Grace, Lord Cold Winter insulted your honour and name, he then challenged me and swung the first blow. I defended myself as well as your name My Princess," Flash reported professionally, glancing up as Twilight's disappointed face, oh there was going to be a talk later.

"And is this true boy?" Lord Winter growled at his son. "Speak!"

"...Yes, father," Cold reluctantly stated.

"By all the gods of the north... I severely apologize My Lady, knowing my son it most likely was really his fault," Harsh Winter said.

"Even so my guardspony should not have let it go this far," Twilight said pointedly. "I will assure he is made aware of his wrongdoing."

"Oh trust me My Lady, my son will be disciplined," Lord Winter said hauntingly, making his son shiver from something other than the cold. "I think we should have dinner and then call this meeting a close do you agree?"

"I do," Twilight said, then looked at Flash. "Wait at the train for me." And then she left.

~~*~~

Flash paced back and forth in the train compartment, he was still miffed about what had happened but he knew Twilight was even more. This was further confirmed when she opened the door and stepped in, she didn't speak only stared Flash down for a few moments. The train gave off two warning whistles before it hailed forward, travelling towards what would be their final city to visit.

"Flash..." Twilight began. "What happened?"

"It's like I said he insulted you, called you a southern wench."

"And did that really warrant duelling with him?"

"I couldn't just let him get away with it! We can't let these people walk over you Twi!"

"But we also can't go around hitting people we don't like," Twilight said. "If you're going to be by my side you can't throw yourself at every problem, it's going to cause trouble for the both of us."

"But I can't-" Flash stopped when he realized what Twilight had said. "Wait, by your side?" Twilight's expression softened and age smiled.

"I don't stop being Princess after this trip, there will be more to do, responsibilities, my friends have their own lives and can't always be there," she said. "I want you to serve by my side, to help me through every turn as you have done already." Flash's chest felt like it was being inflated as he realized what Twilight was saying.

"When we get back to Canterlot I'm going to talk to Celestia and Luna, and if I have my way we're going to make you the first Knight of Three."

Chapter 14~ This Life Of Mine

Chapter 14~ This Life Of Mine

He couldn't believe it.

It seemed like Flash was in a dream, one filled with everything he ever wanted. Him. A knight. He had dreamed about it since he was very young, of course as he got older he relished the real chances of that happening and thus he stopped thinking about it for a while but he never lost the dream. Now as he laid awake warmed by the beautiful mare who he shared a bed with, that hope rekindled and came to full fruition. He was going to be a knight, a fully-fledged, honoured and beloved defender of Equestria. Wow, just... Wow.

A smile plastered itself onto Flash's face and he happily nuzzled Twilight who snuggled in closer sleepily. It was because of her, Flash realized. She was the one making him a knight, she was the one he loved and the one that made him the happiest he had been since before Swift had disappeared... Swift. A spike of guilt settled itself into Flash's soaring heart, he hadn't even given a thought to his long lost brother in what seemed like forever, how could he just forget him like that? Swift who had raised and cared for Flash like the parents they never had. A small part of him argued that it had been so long, that with Twilight in his life now he was beginning to let go of his past life and let go of Swift. The guilt overran that idea.

Swift had never squashed Flash's naive dream of knighthood, even though he must of thought it impossible. They were poor, thieves, scum by all accounts. They had represented the very thing that all knights stood against, thievery, dishonesty. Yet Swift had never squashed his hopes, not once, and looking back on it now Flash realized it was because at the worst times it was that dream of knighthood that kept him going.

He could still remember him, Swift, in every detail. They had been with one another for the better part of two decades and probably longer from what Swift had told him, their parents had died when Flash was just a foal and Swift a scrawny colt. In that time they had had so many adventures both good and bad that Flash couldn't help but reminisce....

Sixteen Years Earlier

A a cold and misty rain had been falling down onto Canterlot since early morning, it soaked everything outside to the bone and chilled the very air. The broken and cracked roof provided some protection from the deluge but in several places the water flowed through the holes and splattered onto the mouldy floor. Swift tried his best to plug the worst of the cracks with old napkins, newspapers, and anything else he could find with limited success. They were doomed to dampness.

Flash was laid on a pile of old and moth-eaten quilts and towels, the few that Swift had managed to save from the rain. The cloth pile was contained within a wicker basket that sat in the thin layer of water that coated the floor, while he was technically dry Flash could feel the subtle sloshing of the damp cloth at the bottom of the basket as the water seeped through the straw.

This was their latest in a long line of abandoned buildings to squat in, they couldn't stay in one for long as the guard would come and chase them away. At first they had to follow the tide of the homeless to find the right buildings, the ones that were left empty but wouldn't collapse in on them at the slightest provocation. This meant that they were often left to sleep in the worst spots, far away from the meagre fires that the experienced bums had set up. But through careful observation and the help of a couple of the rare helpful homeless, Swift was able to see a good spot with his own eyes and get ahead of the curb. They had actually lucked out on this one, a small one-story wooden building that once had been a store, it was a terrific find despite the obvious problems. Flash wasn't about to complain though, they had been forced to take shelter in places without a roof before.

Eventually Swift had plugged every crack he could but still water dripped steadily onto the floor, it was the best they were going to get. He flapped over and laid down on the old mattress that he was using as a bed, although the material had absorbed the moisture like a sponge forcing Swift to sleep on a glorified pile of wet sludge. Flash felt guilty about his warm and dry blankets, the feeling grew as Swift visibly shivered, his body cooling once at rest.

"Do you want my basket?" Flash asked.

"No, I'm fine," Swift answered.

"But you're all wet..."

"And if I take your basket then you'll get wet, one of us has to be wet and it might as well be me."

"....We could share the basket."

"There's no room, look, just go to sleep okay? I'll be fine."

"Okay... Goodnight, Swift."

"Goodnight," Swift said tiredly, laying his head down with a wet Squelch!

Flash eventually did fall asleep, the gentle pitter-patter of the rain lulling him into a slumber. He soon found himself waking but everything had changed, the old building was gone and replaced by the thick canvas of some sort of tent. Flash lifted his head and looked around, it was a tent, not some cheap patched one either. That wasn't the end of it, he way laying in a soft feathered bed with silken sheets, a mahogany wardrobe sat to the right of the tent. Most interestingly to Flash there was a stand that sat across from him and hung on it was a full set of polished steel armour. Not some cheap set used by common guardsmen or mercenaries but engraved, enamelled, high-quality plated steel that would only be seen on one sort of warrior: a knight.

This was further proven by the cape that hung next to the armour, a long satin draping with the insignia of he Two Princesses emblazoned on it. Only a Knight of Two would wear such a thing. Flash climbed out of his bed just in time for a young colt to run in, he skidded and stopped in front of Flash with his right hoof rising up into a dutiful salute.

"Squire Stone reporting in, sir!" He exclaimed. "His Lordship your brother is waiting for you to begin the tourney!"

"Of course," Flash found himself saying, in a voice much deeper and more confident that his own. "Help me with my armour, lad."

Squire Stone was all too eager, with his help Flash was soon sporting the flashy armour complete with a crested and plumed helmet and cape. Finally Stone came forth with Flash's sword, a long double-edged blade that was tinted a light blue and sharper to a razor point. Flash strapped it to his belt and exited the tent. The bright sun shone strongly through the clear air and sparkled across Flash's armour, as his eyes adjusted he took in the amazing sights. Around him hundreds of other tents were pitched, people milled back and forth in a crowd that would make the Canterlot International Market look like a party between few friends. And not far up the shallow hill was an arena, a round talk enclosure constructed of wooden pallets and beams, the noble banners of Equesteia flew proudly from its tops, announcing the presence of every Great Noble House in the land. Including one that Flash didn't recognize: an image of a horseshoe in front of a sword laying on a grey background, he didn't dwell on it as he made his way towards the arena.

As he passed people many stopped to look in awe, stop stopped their hooves in applause, other cheers, what military types that were there offered salutes. Flash found himself holding his head high and taking each moment of appreciation in stride, as if he had been born to do so. He entered the arena proper and was met by a deafening cheer, hundreds of people big and small went almost mad at the mere sight of him. All of them chanting his name, screaming at the top of their lungs, they reached towards him with hooves full of desire. Wanting to touch him, to feel him, perhaps to steal some piece of this hero for themselves.

"Announcing the arrival of Ser Flash of House Hoof!" A magically projected voice said, Flash drew his sword and raised it above his head, getting a renewed round of cheers in return.

"THE WORLD UNDERHOOF!" Flash called and the crowd repeated after him with excitement, Flash lowered his sword as a familiar voice spoke from behind him.

"Good luck little brother, make our House proud."

Flash turned around and indeed, standing behind him was Swift but... Not Swift. This Swift had not a hint of the downtrodden yet defiant look that Flash associated with his brother, this one looked at him with a regal and stoic look. His usually messy and dirty mane was cleaned and brushed to a shine in a warriors braid behind his head, his scruffy stubble was fully grown and trimmed to a handsome beard. He was dressed in a fine cotton and silk tunic that was embroidered with the horseshoe and sword design that he had spotted earlier. Around his shoulders was a fine satin cloak with quality wolf fur at the collar and it was fastened around his neck by a jewelled golden chain. Finally, poking out from under his cloak, was the golden hilt of a beautifully crafted longsword, as masterpiece of a weapon.

"I will, my lord," Flash's mouth said, even though Flash himself was still in shock at seeing Swift like this. It wasn't right, this wasn't Swift, he hated nobles and everything they stood for. He would be absolutely disgusted at the thought of being some prissy lord that's so full of feathers and fluff he was like a peacock. No, this wasn't real, that wasn't Swift and.. He wasn't a Knight.

The arena and crowd melted away as Flash felt the sensation of falling, he landed in something soft but damp and he shivered from the morning cold as he opened his eyes. No arena, no cheering crowd, no Lord Swift, and no Ser Flash. He was back in the cold and damp ruined store, the rain had stopped but almost everything was damp or flat out soaked. Swift was no where to be seen, only his wet slop of a mattress left behind, it wasn't odd for him to do this. Most likely he was out seeing what he could find for their breakfast.

Flash didn't have to wait leg as Swift can soaring through the window carrying a sack that was revealed to be full of freshly baked loafs of bread, Flash's eyes widened at the sight.

"W-where..."

"Baker was feeling charitable," Swift said, getting a look from Flash.

"Alright, stupid taffer left his widow open, I got up just early enough to nick these right out of the oven, now eat up..."

~~*~~

"Hey, you okay?" Twilight asked.

Flash snapped back to reality and looked around, they were walking on cloud streets in what must have been Cloudsdale. Fluffy buildings raised high around them and Pegasi flew back and forth across the cold grey sky, in front of them two Wind Guards guided them towards what Flash recognized as Lady Fresh Wind's mansion.

"Uh, yeah," Flash responded. "Just... Thinking."

"I can imagine, I dropped something big in you out of nowhere didn't I?"

"A bit," Flash admitted.

"I'm sorry," Twilight said, nuzzling him lovingly, despite the fact that they were in public. "It's just... I really think you deserve it, for everything you've done for me."

"I haven't done that much..."

"You've done more than you think, you've supported me this entire time. This isn't just because of my feeling for you, it's because your a good stallion, Flash and you deserve to be recognized."

They fell into silence after that, Flash delving into his own thoughts. You're a good stallion, Flash. The words echoed in his head and triggered a wave of guilt, Twilight didn't even realize the things he had done or the fact that he was in no way a good stallion...

Thirteen Years Earlier

The mare trotted with a purpose through the cool night, late night shopping wasn't usually her habit but she was entertaining guests the next day and she had to stock up on a few things. Heavy bags filled with fresh produce were held in her magical grasp as well as a semi-full bit bag that jiggled merrily with change left over from her purchase. Wishing to get home earlier she decided to take a small shortcut through a nearby alleyway, she didn't even make it a quarter of the way in before she was roughly shoved from her side and she fell painfully to the ground. The mare looked up in horror at the shadowy stallion before her, his face covered by a dirty piece of cloth that hid his identity.

"Not so fast, taffer," Swift said menacingly. "So nice of you to buy us supper."

The mare got up and tried to run with her groceries in to but she ran face-first into Flash who had snuck up behind her, she fell back down and cowered in fear.

"P-please don't hurt me!" She cried.

"We won't," Flash said almost soothingly. "Just leave the food and the buts and be on your way."

The mare looked up in surprise and nodded shakily before getting up and taking off, Flash offered no resistance to her as she escaped. Once she was gone Swift angrily pulled off his cloth mask and got right in Flash's face, his teeth grit in rage.

"What the fuck was that?" He asked.

"What? We weren't going to actually hurt her."

"Obviously but she can't know that, if you just go around reassuring every bloody taffer we mug then eventually someone won't take us seriously and slap our shit!"

"Fine, I get it, it's just... I don't really like doing this, you know? Scaring people out of their bits... It doesn't feel right."

"Your too soft Flash," Swift sighed. "You need to patch that bleeding heart of yours if you wanna eat, we talked about this anyway, this is much faster, easier, and more rewarding than breaking into somebodies house or shop."

"Well don't you think doing this will get the guards on our tails? This just seems... Beneath us."

"Beneath us," Swift repeated incredulously. "You're not really that arrogant are you? C'mon Flash, we're scoundrels, we aren't exactly moral pillars."

"I guess..." Flash said uncertainly.

"Look, if it makes you feel better then we can go fishing tomorrow, it's market day anyway, plenty of bits to be robbed there."

"Okay, sounds-"

"STOP RIGHT THERE CRIMINAL SCUM!" an angry voice shouted at them, the two brother turned to see several guardsmen running towards them.

"Bail," came Swift's command and they vacated quickly, losing the guards as quickly as they found them.

~~*~~

Flash snapped back to reality, having completely lost himself in his memories yet again. It was dark out now, cold too, and he was walking next to Twilight with Lady Fresh Wind's manor at their backs. He had no memory of their visit nor what was said, he expressed as much to Twilight who giggled in response.

"I noticed, you were completely out of it, like a zombie," she laughed.

"I'm sorry, it's just I've been thinking..."

"I know, we talked about this, it's big," Twilight reassured him.

"Yeah, but it's just..." Flash paused and his throat clogged up. He could tell her, all of it, spill every lie that he had ever told her. How he had performed fraud on his military records, stolen, broken the law countless times, how he was no knight. He almost did it, he was so close but as Flash looked into Twilight's big lavender eyes that were filled with laughter, cheer, and the shine of something else, something warm and loving that Flash's heart craved like an addict. He could do it, he couldn't bring himself to destroy Flash Sentry and bring back Flash Hoof, no. He was in this far, there was no going back.

"It's nothing," Flash said. "Let's go home."

Chapter 15~ Brothers

Chapter 15~ Brothers

Celestia's sun sat high in the sky and set the white marble of Canterlot ablaze with a brilliant glow, the fresh snowfall sparkled in the cold light giving the entire city an almost holy glow. At least, that's what Flash thought as the train crested the mountain and pulled into Canterlot station. He and Twilight wasted no time in leaving the train and making their way up towards the Royal Castle. As they went they passed many residents who bowed respectively. They entered the castle gates with Twilight giving a happy sigh.

"It's good to be back," she said.

"Yeah," Flash agreed. "That trip seemed to be much longer than it actually was."

"It wasn't all bad though," Twilight said, brushing up affectionately against Flash. "Right?"

"Right."

The two ascended the steps of the castle to have the doors open before them to reveal Shining Armour. Twilight wasted no time in sprinting forth and almost knocking her brother to the ground with a powerful hug.

"Hey, how was the trip?" Shining said, returning his sisters hug.

"There's so much I want to tell you! You won't believe some of these nobles..."

"You'll have to tell me later, Celestia's waiting for you inside... I think you two have a lot to talk about."

"You're right, excuse me." Twilight broke her embrace and entered the castle. Flash made to follow her but was stopped by Shining's hoof.

"Not you, I think you and I need to talk," Shining said and Flash's heart dropped into his stomach as he suddenly realized he was talking to Twilight's older brother and all the fear of that hit Flash like the train he had been riding for the past month.

"Come with me," Shining said with a tone and smile that was probably the most menacing thing Flash had ever seen, he followed Shining's guiding hoof around his shoulders into the castle and left into a side hall.

"Now, Twilight send a letter forth before you arrived here-"

"S-she did?" Flash said, Oh Celestia he knows.

"Yes, to both me and Princess Celestia," Shining said. "She told us everything that happened during your trip, everything you did."

"Okay..."

"She also said how she wanted to make you a knight," Shining said catching Flash's eye. "Now, it's not exactly up to me but... from everything Twilight said you are certainly capable and even without her recommendation I'd definitely have you promoted, but again knighthood is something I have no hoof in, but, I want you to know you have my personal thanks for protecting my sister."

"Oh, uh, you're welcome?," Flash said in surprise.

"Good, now, there was one other thing Twilight said in her letter... And it was only in my letter not the Princesses," Shining said while stopping in his tracks and facing Flash. "Twilight is a grown mare, a Princess, but she's still my sister, she can choose who to spend her time with whomever she wants and I won't interfere."

"Really?" Flash asked. "You're not going to threaten to break my spine or something if I hurt her?"

"No, why would I do that? You seem like a good stallion Flash and you haven't given me a reason to doubt you, I'm keeping an eye on you of course but I have no worries," Shining said, cracking a smile.

"Wow, uh, thanks," Flash said.

"You're welcome, now, let's head back, the Princesses will want to see you once they're done."

They turned on the spot and walked back, not having gone far in the first place. They made it back to the great hall just Twilight and Celestia were walking out of it. Twi shared a look, grin, and wink with Flash before joining Shining, then disappeared around a corner as Celestia beckoned for Flash to follow her. With a deep breath he stole his courage and followed obediently.

The Princess didn't say anything at first, merely cantered casually through the hall. Her silence only made Flash more nervous, his heart rate elevated and his mind raced with what would happen to him. What if she didn't want him to be a knight? What if she actually thought he did a terrible job protecting Twilight and deserved to be thrown back out on the streets? What if she didn't think a Princess like Twilight deserved to be with a no name grunt like him.

Flash forced himself to take a breath, he was still nervous but he realized most of his fears were unfounded. Looking to distract himself, Flash found himself looking up at Celestia. She was much taller than the average pony and Flash couldn't help but wonder if Twilight would ever grow that tall. There was an energy about her, a warmth that radiated from her like the sun she represented that was joined by a buzzing of the pure magical power that she wielded. This was the closest he had ever been to the Princess, this was immediately followed by the realization that Celestia was not just a Princess but a goddess. She was a cosmic being of unimaginable power that could move a celestial body thousands of kilometres away with a mere thought, and then Flash thought of Twilight whom was also a goddess of near if not matching power to the one next to him right now. Suddenly Flash felt like he and his fears were very very small, it was almost comforting.

"Twilight believes you to be a good choice for knighthood," Celestia said, getting right to the point.

"Ah, y-yes ma'am, she told me," Flash stuttered.

"And what do you think?"

"Ma'am?"

"Do you think Twilight is right?"

"Well I.. uh..." Flash thought about it for a second, was he worthy of knighthood? He had dreamt about it, sure, but he had never stopped to question if he was truly worthy of such an honour, could he live up to such a legacy? Him who had been lying through his teeth about who he was for years now, to his officers, to his friends, and to Twilight. "I... don't know ma'am."

"A fair answer. I for one, agree with her," Celestia said and Flash's heart jumped. "You have gone above and beyond your orders and protected our newest Princess, you've certainly impressed Twilight and I am not in the right to override her, thus I believe we should go forward with it."

"I... t-thank you ma'am, it's a great honour-"

"No, it's not," Celestia said, she stopped and looked up at a nearby stain glass window that depicted Twilight and her friends defeating Discord. "This is not an honour, nor a gift. It's a responsibly, a burden, with this knighthood you will have the weight of a nation upon your back. You will have their fears, their anxieties, it shall be yours as much as it is mine. You will be an instrument of myself, my sister, and Twilight and you will be our weapon, I want to make this entirely clear Flash Sentry. I shall make you a Knight of the Three, but this is not a gift, it is a curse... and I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me."

Flash was taken aback, he hadn't expected that. Nor had he ever looked at knighthood in such a way, but still, she had confirmed it. He was going to be knighted. Flash felt his chest swelling with pride and excitement, it took him a moment to get his thoughts back together and respond.

"I... think I can do that ma'am, forgive you I mean," Flash said.

"Thank you," Celestia said. "Now, let's talk about you and Twilight, hm?"

Oh shitfuck.

"She seems quite taken with you, and is happy," Celestia said, she still wasn't looking at him. "So I won't step in nor interfere, however I want you to consider something. Twilight is immortal whether she chooses to accept it or not. She will live on far beyond this era into the unseen paths of the future, far beyond her friends, and far beyond you."

"In time, she shall come to terms with this, but there will be a time when time catches up. When your strength begins to wane and all that once was will fade, and she will be alone. This is the curse of the Alicorn and is one we must all come to terms with. Cadence has chosen to be happy now and face the grief later. She realizes she will far outlive Shining Armour and has accepted this, her love far transcends the boundaries of time. But I wonder if Twilight can do the same... just something to consider."

"I... will, ma'am," Flash said, he bowed and turned to go. He made it halfway across the hall before Celestia called out to him.

"Just one more thing," she said. "When you become a knight you leave your past behind, you become a new person so to speak. Your old life doesn't matter anymore, just something I thought you should know."

Celestia's smile was way too knowing for Flash's comfort zone, so he bowed again and hurried out of the hall. His mind was already going rapid fire with all that Celestia had told him and for a moment he didn't even pay attention to where he was going as the prospect of what was happening was just too unreal. Flash had trouble even comprehending it, for the longest time all he felt was an overwhelming sense of joy, pride, thanks, and privilege.

But with that sense of graciousness came a sense of guilt and his high mood came crashing down, he didn't deserve this, any of this. He was a thief, liar, a deceiver, a poor no-name homeless stallion that had no place amongst these heroes and goddesses. With this thought Flash's high mood came crashing down, he internalized it though, no, that was the past. As Celestia said, after he was knighted he would be a whole new person.

Flash's thoughts were interrupted by a familiar softness at his side, he looked over and saw Twilight cuddling up to him, her wing draping over his back like a blanket. A happy smile was on her face as she stared up cutely at Flash with half-lidded eyes.

"Sooo, how'd it go?" Twilight asked. "You were certainly distracted if I was able to sneak up on you."

"Yeah, uh, Celestia agreed to knight me," Flash said. "....All thanks to you."

"Nah, you deserve it and everyone thinks so," Twilight said, nuzzling him.

"I guess so," Flash said, nuzzling her back and taking comfort from it. "It's just a lot to take in at once, you know?"

"I know," Twilight said. "Why don't we go recite the new oath? There's a whole new stanza but did you know the others each have an attached meaning and stories to explain them..."

Flash found himself smiling as he followed Twilight, listening in close as she ranted on about the history of the oath.

~~*~~

The stallion was young, a punk, clothed in a dirty jumper and brown coat. He wailed in pain as he was thrown violently to the ground, his head smacked against the stone and scrapped his joints raw. He didn't have a moment to move before a hoof came smashing down on his rear leg, there was a sickening snap! and the stallion screamed again until his mouth was clapped shut in a golden magical glow.

"Now," said White, he was dressed in a clean white suit, yellow tie, and a white cloak that hid his face in a deep white hood. "What do you say?"

"I-I'm s-sorry sir! I'll have the money to you right away sir!" The stallion on the ground said.

"Mm, Iron Hoof?" White asked.

Iron Hoof grunted, he was the one who was currently grinding his hoof into the poor stallions back leg. Iron was strong and as big as a bull, he wore a simple boiled leather vest and some greaves. A short heavy iron sword was at his side, White didn't feel like making it easy for the shit on the ground though.

"I don't believe this weasel, you hear that Mr. Sky? I think you're a liar," White said and without warning he kicked High Sky in the stomach hard, yelling angrily with each blow. "AND I DON'T. LIKE. LIARS!"

High Sky screamed silently against White's magical gag. Mercifully the stallion in White relented and spoke calmly yet again.

"You promised me a new source of prime, good quality salt, just give you some funds to start, and I believed you, I trusted you and what do you do with that trust? You throw it away and use my money to buy cheap-ass salt and get yourself higher then Cloudsdale, I am very disappointed in you Mr. Sky, what do you have to say for yourself?" White released his magical grip on High Sky's jaw.

"I'm sorry! Please! I'll work for you! Whatever you want! Cook for you I don't care! Please Mr. Golde-"

"Shhhhh..." White said, shutting High Sky's mouth again. "You know how I feel about names my friend, now I'm afraid I can't allow this level of disrespect to pass, so how about we-"

"Ah-hem," a new voice said, White looked over and saw a stallion dressed in brown leather and a cloak. The Thief seemed to be waiting.

"Oh, it's you, just a moment," White said before looking back at High Sky. "Your lucky day kid, I've got more important business to attend to, now be a good boy and make your way to Trottingham. Speak to White Powder in a place called The Broken Hoof, he'll get you into one of his kitchens, now scram."

"Oh, thank you Mr. Gol- I mean sir! I won't let you down! Thank you! Thank you!" High Sky said and Iron Hoof released his back leg, High Sky shakily got to his hooves, thanked White again, and limped as fast as he could away from the situation.

"Now what do you want? You fulfill the contract?" White asked, looking back at the Thief.

"Not exactly, I was wondering if we could... choose a different mark?" The Thief asked.

"A different... a different mark?" White asked incredulously and then laughed. "You're joking, you've gotta be, kid, I can't just give you a different mark, that defeats the purpose, no, you need to show me you can do a job and do it well.... you're not thinking of backing out on me now, are you?"

"N-no... sir," the Thief said.

"Good, you made me a promise kid and I don't like liars," White said. "Now go on, times a wasting and I am not a patient stallion, you have until noon tomorrow to deliver me that necklace."

~~*~~

Flash took a deep breath, his chest pushed against the steel chestplate he had been given. In fact his entire body was covered in new polished steel armour, it was all ingrained with swirling designs of suns, moons, and stars. His vision was slightly obscured by the plumed helm he wore, over his back was a cape of deep purple and by his side rested a ornate longsword. Thus was the equipment of a knight, a true warrior, and if Flash was being honest with himself he preferred his old guards armour and his old Snowhawk cape, he shook the feeling away though, after today that life would be gone.

This was it. This was the day. The amalgamation of all of Flash's fears, his dreams, finally against all odds he was here. Yet he still couldn't believe it, wrap his head around it. Why? How? It just didn't seem possible and Flash couldn't help but wonder if something out there made this happen, pulled the strings of fate until he came to stand here just outside the throne room.

Stealing his courage once more, Flash took a breath and nodded to the guards, they pushed the doors open and revealed a huge compacted crowd. Nobles, lords, and foreign dignitaries had gathered and lined either side of a long aisle that led to Twilight, Celestia, and Luna. Holding his head high Flash marched down the few steps and towards the Princesses. He let his eyes explore on their own and to his surprise he noticed several familiar faces, Lady Rose Petal smiled sweetly at him with Arctic Wind standing close by. He also spotted Lord Forest Green giving him the evilest most angry murder-gaze he had ever received, he forced himself to ignore him as he came to stop before the Three Princesses.

Once he halted, Flash pulled his helmet off his head and laid it down at his side. He then drew his longsword free for the Princesses to inspect, the blade reflecting the light of the room with its blue tint. After a moment Flash turned the sword point-down into the floor and knelt with his head turned down respectfully.

"Flash Sentry," Celestia spoke first. "You have demonstrated your skill and dedication to what is true."

"You have proven your loyalty and service to we who are Three," Luna said next.

"And you have shown your worthiness of our blessing," Twilight said, unable to keep the smile off her face.

"Do you accept this blessing? Do you accept this responsibility? Will you swear yourself over to us? In the sight of gods and mortals?" Celestia asked.

"I will," Flash said, trying to keep the shaking out of his voice.

"Then swear it," the Three said in unison while sparking their horns to life. Suddenly Flash felt that power again, that huge sparking force all around only it was thrice the potency, he felt the heat of the sun, the coolness of night, and the cozy warmth inside that marked friendship and without much thought the words that he had practiced earlier came free.

"I, Flash Sentry, hereby do swear to faithfully and loyally serve the Princesses Three,

and to protect the rights and freedoms of the Equestrian people.

From this moment forth.

I shall be the sword against tyranny.

I shall be the herald of the sun.

I shall be the soldier of the night.

I shall be a friend to the innocent.

By the gods whom watch.

By the Three who see.

I do swear."

"Then rise as our instrument, rise as a Knight of Three," Celestia said, Flash obeyed and rose from his knelt position, he kept his head bowed and Luna leaned forward and planted a kiss atop his head, she was followed by Celestia, and then by Twilight who let her kiss linger just a tad longer then necessary.

"You have our blessing, harken to it," Luna told him.

"All hail Sir Flash Sentry! Knight of the Three!" Celestia declared.

Flash turned to face the crowd, raising his sword high as the hall rumbled with applause. Some chanted his name and Flash couldn't help but revel in it. The mood of the room was infectious, Flash couldn't help smiling as the full realization of what he was and what had happened hit him. He finally did it, he was a knight, it was a new day, a new life.

Flash sheathed his sword, grabbed his helmet, and the crowd swarmed around to congratulate him. For a moment he was overwhelmed by the amount of people around him but Flash felt a familiar hoof grab him and begin to pull him through the crowd. It was only once he came free of the crowd that he saw that it was Twilight guiding him, she didn't let up even after they turned a corner away from the great hall. The sun was beginning to set casting a brilliant orange light into the long hallway, by the time they made it to Twilight's room it was dark. Twilight pushed Flash into the room while magically closing the door and unclasping Flash's armour, her lips graced his and the two of them found themselves falling into the bed.

Flash woke up to Twilight's warmth next to him, her face buried in his chest. He smiled briefly but it quickly vanished. Something had woken him up. Trying not to move, Flash looked around the darkened room. Nothing seemed out of place until his eyes set upon the open balcony door, the cool breeze tinkled his fur and the night sky was clearly visible. That must have been what woke Flash up.

Gently as he could Flash slipped out of Twilight's grasp, she squirmed a bit in search of him and Flash felt really guilty for leaving even briefly. He planted a kiss on her temple and moved over to the balcony door, he made to close it but... what was that. Some sort of noise, a rustle of feathers, some sort of bird? Curiously Flash stepped out into the cold and took a deep breath, a smile came to his lips. He should head back inside, he didn't want to catch a cold.

Flash made to go back inside but without warning the balcony door slammed shut, Flash whipped his head to the side where he had seen movement. Sitting there in the rail was a stallion, covered in dark leather armour and shrouded in a brown cloak with a deep hood that hid his face. It was the Thief, the same one that had been on the train not two days ago, Flash reacted immediately, moving towards the door again and opening his mouth to call out but the Thief interrupted him.

"Wait!" He hissed. "It's me, Flash, it's me."

"What are you talking about? What do you want? Who are you?" Flash demanded, keeping his voice low for now. The Thief seemed to hesitate but then reached up and pulled his hood free of his face.

It was Swift.

What? No. It can't be him, no, no, no, no! I can't be! No! Flash was frozen, a storm raged in his head, sorrow, regret, and anger, oh yes a disgusting deep-seated anger boiled up in Flash's chest. Why? Why now? Just when he had finally moved beyond this, beyond his old life, here Swift was, ruining it. As quickly as the feeling came Flash felt ashamed about it, the anger was replaced by guilt, and... happiness, Swift... He was alive, right here, in front of him.

"S-Swift?" Flash asked, his heart was thumping. "What? How?"

"I know, I know, I just... It's so good to see you, Flash," Swift said, his trademark impish grin graced his features. Flash's breath caught in his throat, everything about his face was the same, same clever eyes, same grin, some more marks and a rough beard but other than that he looked exactly the same.

"I wanted to find you, I really did," Swift continued. "I remember that night like yesterday, I got away, just barely and I was hurt bad. That's when... a friend found me, and nursed me back to health, so I went looking for you, everywhere, but I couldn't find you."

"But, that was you, on the train before... why?" Flash asked.

"Same reason I'm here. That friend who helped me? He's leader of the Thieves Guild," Swift said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Flash he's offered me a place, better jobs, great money, it'll be just like the good old days, you and me shilling some lordling taffer out of his gold, eh?"

"Swift that's..." Flash paused. "You haven't answered me, why're you here?"

"The guildmaster set me a job to prove my skill, your lady friend has a necklace someone wants terribly. I get that and I'm in," Swift explained. "I'm sure he can make a space for you too, Flash, we can be a family again."

"I.. I don't know," Flash said, taking a step back. "No... No! Swift, I can't go back to this, we can't go back to this, I'm a knight now and Twilight... I care for her."

"Stop kidding yourself Flash," Swift said. "This is Emerald all over again, can't you see we can't trust these noble types? They'd step all over you if they had the chance. What's the story this time huh? Minor house in the south? Inheritance? You father was a knight? What lie did you weave huh?"

"That doesn't matter now..."

"Of course it matters you fucking taffer! How many times are you going to have your heart broken before you realize people like her don't like you for who you are, only what they want you to be!"

"No, Twilight's different," Flash said firmly. "Swift... just walk away from this, forget about the necklace and the Thieves Guild, we can still see each other and maybe I'll even be able to find you an honest job, but you need to turn away from this."

"I'm not going to wash dishes or peddle on my hooves for anybody, I take what I can and I give nothing back," Swift said. "This place in the Guild is my chance at a better life. I have no choice here Flash, even if I wanted it. The Guildmaster would skin me alive if he found out I walked out on him, there's no turning back."

"I can't let you Swift, I can't just stand by while you break the law right in front of me," Flash said.

"Flash... don't do this... meet me in the gardens in an hour, bring the necklace. If you don't then I'll have to take it... and you won't be able to stop me," Swift said, spreading his wings. "...I love you." And then he flew off.

Flash was left frozen where he stood, Swift, his brother, he was alive. It didn't seem possible, Flash had long lost hope of him being alive, let alone finding him, but there he had stood. This was too much, Flash felt like he was drowning, what was he going to do? He remembered what Swift had said, about the old days, he remembered how happy they had been, the excitement of theft and the joy of success.

No, no! He was a knight now, he couldn't go back to that, it would break everything his oath meant and stood for. No, as much as it pained him he couldn't let Swift just walk free. He was confused, dangerous even, and as a Knight of Three it was his duty to arrest him. With a heavy heart Flash stepped back inside, his eyes alighting on a slumbering Twilight, she needn't know about this. Planting a gentle kiss on her temple Flash then moved around the bed, he made to leave but paused for a moment, considering, and then he grabbed his longsword and headed out.

~~*~~

The Canterlot Gardens were cool and quite this time of night, the grass covered in a thin layer of snow that was slowly growing with a light sprinkle that fell from the sky. Flash's hoofbeats crunched softly and he entered the gardens proper, looking around as he did so, no one was there, neither was Swift. Where was he?

There was a soft flap and suddenly Swift landed lightly on the ground, a grin could be seen in the bright moonlight from under his hood. He began walking towards Flash.

"Glad you came lil'bro," Swift said happily. "I knew you'd do the right thing, now where's the-"

Swift stopped as his eyes spotted the longsword at Flash's side, his grin disappearing in an instant. His eyes met Flash's and reflected a hurt and betrayed look.

"What's that for?" He asked, his voice shaking slightly.

"I'm sorry, Swift," Flash said, trying to keep the emotion out of his voice. "But I can't stand by, you're a criminal and you have to face justice, I'm sorry, so sorry, but you're under arrest."

"No! I'm not being tossed in some cell like a slave!" Swift yelled, fast as lighting a dagger appeared and he blindly rushed Flash who blocked the strike with his own blade, he pushed Swift back who slide across the slick ground.

"Think about what your doing!" Flash said, lowering the point of his sword. "Don't throw your life away!"

"You're the one throwing your life away!" Swift retorted and rushed again, this time with a flurry of rapid jabs and slashes. Flash blocked every one but just barely, the night ringed with the clash of steel as the two brothers fought.

"I looked for you!" Swift yelled, as they locked blades. His eyes had begun to spill tears onto his cheeks. "Everywhere! Half killed myself doing it! And this is the thanks I get!"

"I'm trying to help you!" Flash said, feeling his own eyes moisturize as Swift disengaged his blade. "I can put in a word for you, your sentence won't be long, but you have to stand down!"

"No! I'm not tossing who I am away! Not like you!"

The two of them exchanged more strikes, the blows were sloppy but powerful from emotion. Flash could barely bring himself to swing his sword, this was wrong, this was so wrong. Why couldn't he see what he was doing? Why couldn't he see what he was giving up?

In his internal turmoil Flash lost his concentration, Swift was able to breech his defence and carve his blade across Flash's left cheek, opening up the flesh and spilling blood everywhere. Flash screamed in pain and stumbled backwards as Swift froze up, his eyes widening in horror at what he had done.

"Flash!" He exclaimed. "Oh shit, oh shit, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to..."

Flash wasn't listening, the pain ignited something in his chest. Fury, how dare Swift attack him like this! He was a knight! Clearly Swift was dedicated to being a criminal through and through, and if that was how he was going to act, then Flash would just have to treat him like a criminal. Without warning Flash threw a wild slash at Swift who ducked under it. Swift stabbed upwards and struck home as his dagger plunged deep into Flash's chest, right between the ribs.

Both brothers eyes met as the horror struck them, Flash spluttered and gurgled as blood filled his lungs. Swift was left stunned and his grip on the dagger relaxed. Flash stumbled and fell on his side, his blood staining the snow around him.

"No... no, no, no, no, no, no! Flash! Flash!" Swift yelled desperately. He knelt down and shook Flash violently, no response. "Flash! Hang in there! Flash please! Please! don't die! Please! Flash!"

Swift put his ear to where Flash's heart should have been, hot blood warmed his flesh and made him want to puke but he listed carefully for the drum of life. There was none.

"Flash!"

~~*~~

Twilight yawned and sat up, ugh it was too early. She moved to wake up Flash but found he wasn't there, must have gotten up earlier. Twilight shivered slightly, why was it so cold? She looked around the quickly brightening room, her eyes alighting on the open balcony door. With a spark of magic she closed it before stepping out of bed, she stretched while yawning again. Looking around Twilight searched for her regalia, she found it all thrown sloppily on the floor and she smiled at that but then she felt confused as her necklace was missing, the one her mother had given to her. Odd, but most likely it was misplaced when she tossed all of her jewellery to the floor.

Twilight frowned a bit, where was it? Mm, not under the bed, not next to the cabinet, strange. Oh well, it would turn up eventually, but where was Flash? Perhaps he had gone down to get breakfast before Twilight woke up. Smiling to herself Twilight set to grooming and preening herself for the day, it took about an hour before she left her room, her coat shiny and brushed, and her wings smooth. The hallway was empty of everyone, it was quiet, oddly so, but the day outside was bright and fresh snow sparkled on the ground and rooftops of Canterlot.

Twilight didn't run into anybody until she made it to the main foyer which was bustling with activity, servants and guards alike move rapidly to and fro. All seemed to have a pined or worried look on their face which turned worse when they caught sight of Twilight although she didn't know why. Pushing through the crowd she managed to find Shining Armour in the crowd, he was fully armoured besides his helmet, behind him was a cart of some description that had several guards and what looked like healers around it.

"Shining?" Twilight called, her brother turned a pained look to her.

"Twi," he said, rushing forward and wrapping Twilight into a hug. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry."

"Sorry?" Twilight repeated confusedly, staring at the cart, the healers and guards shaking their heads sadly. "What do you mean? What's going on?"

"Twi..." Shining said shakily, holding his sister at length. "Flash..."

"Flash? What about him? Where is he?" Twilight asked, Shining couldn't speak, only clenched his jaw tight as the realization slowly dawned upon his sister.

"Shining where is he?"

"Where's Flash?"

"Where... where... Shining?"

"Where's Flash!?"

"Where is he?!"

~~*~~

Swift walked up to the entrance of the inn, a faded wooden sign identified the dirty looking hole as The Staggering Stallion. The outside spelled disrepair for the entire building, cracked windows, dirty walls, and a sag to the whole building. When he pulled open the door, he was hit by a blast of heat coupled with the smell of cheap booze and smelly bodies. Inside was packed to the brim with early morning drinkers and tenants, the innkeeper spotted Swift immediately and motioned to the far corner of the room.

There sat White, who stood clearly out amongst these ruffians with his fine cloths and white cloak. Swift approached him and lowered his own hood, dark tracks could be seen running down his cheeks and his eyes were still red. Clearly, Swift had been crying.

"You look terrible," White stated as Swift sat down. "What happened?"

"Nothing," Swift said bitterly, keeping all emotion out of his voice. "I got your bucking necklace." Swift reached into his saddle bag and produced Twilight's necklace, the golden chain and ruby glimmered in the fire light.

"Impressive," White said, reaching for the necklace. "And from a Princess too." Swift retreated his hoof quickly. Emotionally compromised as he was, Swift wasn't an idiot.

"We had a deal," Swift said and White smiled.

"That we did," White said, he reached into his cloak and produced a large sack that jingled with the sweet sound of coin. "Here we are." The two of them exchanged treasures, White stuck the necklace into his cloak. He then smiled at Swift.

"I think it's time we meet properly," White said, he reached up and lowering his hood, revealing the face underneath. He had golden white fur and a golden brown mane that was slicked back from his face, his eyes were two blazing suns filled with cleverness and guile.

"Name's Golden Shine," he said. "And I think we can do great business together."

"Welcome to the Thieves Guild."

Chapter 1- Like Thieves in the Knight

The market was bustling as usual. Merchants, money changers, foreign tourists, and even a few nobles crowded the grand bazaar of Canterlot. It was really a magnificent center of commerce, the jewel of Canterlot's economy since the ancient city's founding. For hundreds of years, ponies from throughout Equestria- and evident from the Saddle Arabians, Griffons, and Zebras present, all over Equis- had come to trade money, gems, and other valuables in a menagerie of every form of barter. To the traders and nobles, it was a shining beacon of the friendship among the civilized races of Equis.

For Swift Hoof, however, it was a goldmine. The market to him was more of a hunting ground. Where others saw stalls, he saw watering holes. Where others saw roads, he saw game trails. And where others saw the wealthy inhabitants of the city, he saw carelessly unguarded coin purses, begging to be liberated from their owners. Swift was a thief, plain and simple. It wasn't anything personal against them, it was just business.

Actually, that was where he had to second guess himself; this was personal. These wealthy people acted like their lives were so hard, their jobs so demanding, but what did they know of true difficulty? How dare they complain as they spent enough money to feed Swift's family like kings for a week on a lavish rug or a silver ring- things with no purpose, and therefore, no value? It made him sick to his stomach that these people could even come close to considering their lives hard when he and his little brother relied on what barely amounted to the scraps from their tables?

Swift scoffed. "Bloody peacocks," he whispered to himself from the alley where he waited. The pickpocket's job was simple when you got down to it. Scope a target, predict their route, wait for the right moment- usually praying for a well timed distraction- and then cut the purse from the belt while everyone is misdirected. Done well it was a beautiful orchestration of sleight of hand.

Done poorly it meant running like hell before the bullheaded guard could catch you, or worse, the stockades.

Luckily, Swift usually did it well. He had only botched a lift three times, and only once had he been noticed botching it. The other two idiots had just assumed their purse strings gave out and secured their purses more fervently. That one time he had been caught, though, was less than pleasant. The noble had wanted such outlandish punishments as twenty years in the dungeon or execution.

All these fat cats are so out of touch, they would sentence a child to death for nothing more than a few bits, he thought. How pathetic.

Swift had been scoping this one noble for the better part of the afternoon. He desperately begged in his head for some luck. The sun was almost setting, meaning the market would be closing soon, not to mention this specific target was a bit harder to lift. He was one of the magistrates of Canterlot, a prefect responsible to one of the wealthier quarters of the city. Swift had observed news of him before, as well as even watching a speech or two of his. Speeches were always great places to make lifts as people were too focused on the politics to worry about their own coins.

The difficulty was that this specific prefect was being escorted by a member of the Diplomatic Guard, an officer of the larger Royal Guard that was specifically stationed within Canterlot to foalsit the aristocracy. As such, he was used to looking for threats and assassins hiding in crowds, and it would be child'splay for him to spot a pickpocket, even from a mile away. There would have to be a damn good diversion. Please, for Celestia's sake... Give me a chance...

Suddenly, as if in answer to his silent prayer, a young colt not looking where he was going bumped into the magistrate, who was too infatuated with the new carafe the guard was holding for him to see the child coming. The colt bounced back and hit the ground hard.

"Ow!" He began to whine. Swift smirked.

Perfect. As if on cue.

The colt continued groaning in agony as a small crowd formed. The prefect, not wanting to be cast in a bad light, knelt down to the colt. "Are you alright, little colt? Allow me to apologize. I didn't mean to run into you." The colt kept groaning. Swift slowly worked his way through the crowd. Rushing through risked drawing attention to himself.

"Ow, I think I'm hurt pretty bad, sir. My knee doesn't feel right when I bend it." The colt writhed in pony as a small crowd formed around him. Weaving in between members of the bustling crowd, Swift graceful drifted feet from his target. He looked at the guard, who also seemed to have his attention taken by the child. Come on... Just a few more seconds... Swift thought as he slipped a tiny, almost imperceptible knife into his right hoof. As he brought the hoof up for another step, he slashed the woven cord holding the coin purse to the magistrate's saddlebag.

Swift gave a small tug, freeing the purse from its fastenings and into his hoof. A more attentive mark might have felt the minor pressure on his bag, but the magistrate was completely enthralled with trying to make it painfully obvious that he wasn't the sort to hurt children. After all, that's a bad reputation for anyone to have, especially a politician. The only other person in the crowd who had a chance to detect Swift, the guard, didn't have line of sight since Swift had waited until the magistrate was between them.

The stallion's heart skipped a few beats as he trotted away. The three to five seconds after a lift was performed was crucial. A good thief could disappear after the first few seconds completely, vanishing into the crowd, and while Swift was no guildmaster, he certainly was skilled. However, if the thief were detected during those interim five seconds, there was little to no chance to escape: not enough head start to outrun the authorities, not enough space to blend, and certainly no suitable, unseen nooks or crannies to hide in. He closed his eyes as he walked, silently wishing as he counted in his head.

5...4...3...2...1...

Swift breathed a sigh of relief, now yards from his target and all but invisible in the sea of faces that was the marketplace. He left the crowd to pity the injured child as he walked away a few dozen bits richer. He turned in to an alleyway off from the main streets of the bazaar and continued before again turning left into an even smaller alley. He waited a moment, scanning the edge of the streets. When he was sure he wasn't followed, he slumped against the dingy walls of the alley and opened the purse, counting out the bits from all of the day's thievery. This day in particular had been very bountiful: the annual Grand Galloping Gala was tonight, which meant the wealthy and nobility from all around Equestria were consolidated in the city for an evening of mirth.

Ten... twenty... thirty... forty... fifty... sixty... seventy... seventy five... seventy six... seventy seven... seventy eight. Not a bad haul. Expected a little more, but it'll do. Suddenly, Swift saw a very familiar silhouette. He smiled as the form became clearer, trotting up next to him in the alleyway. "Well, if it isn't the big ham himself. Good acting there, chief." Swift said to the colt who had moments before been faking an injury.

He was young, and small even for a colt. A tiny pair of hardly operable wings were folded flat against his back as his hooves clacked against the cobblestone. His orange Coat stood out vibrantly midst the gloomy, dull light of the alleyway, and his electric blue hair was styled up as if a massive gust of wind had blown it so hard that it stuck in that position. But most iconic was the innocent smile that crossed the colts face accompanied by bright blue eyes.

"Did I do well big brother?" Flash asked. Swift walked over to his little brother and ruffled his already messy hair.

"You did perfectly," Swift responded.

Flash's smile grew wider when he saw his brother's coin purse, full of their ill-gotten gains.

"Oh, wow! How much did we get today?"

Swift dawned a frown. "I'm afraid we only made a meager twenty."

Flash's ears flopped close to his head as his face fell flat. "I'm so sorry, Swift. I should have been more coordinated and-"

"I'm just messing with you," Swift interrupted. "We got a total of seventy eight bits."

Flash started jumping up and down, trotting triumphantly around his older brother. "Really? Oh, by Celestia! That's great! We're going to get so many sweet rolls and stuff! Maybe we can even get a donut or two from that shop across town," he said as his voice cracked with excitement.

Swift stopped him. "Ah ah ah, Flash. What's the rule?"

The young colt felt the wind being knocked out of his sails. He sighed and said as if reciting from memory, "'First we save, then we spend, then we splurge,' I know, Swift." He let his chin droop before Swift lifted it back up with a hoof.

"Don't worry, Flash. I promise we'll splurge. We just have to go in order first. Now, come on. Lets had back home. Maybe- just this once- we can splurge first and buy some sweet rolls on the way." Flash gasped in excitement and couldn't help but cheer, further warming his older brother's heart. They walked towards the exit of the alley only to be stopped by a burly figure. He was a tall unicorn stallion, but seemed to be in the prime of his youth, a few years older than Swift. But that wasn't what caught his eye.

Instead his attention was drawn to the Diplomatic Guard armor that the stallion was wearing, as well as the unsheathed sword in his hoof.

"Hold it right there," the guard barked. "I heard you two talking, and I know you are the pickpockets. There's going to be Tartarus to pay, you couple of-" the guard cut his own sentence short as he finally got a good look at the two street urchins. He saw the bag they were holding, obvious incriminating evidence. Still, something struck a chord with him..

"Celestia's sake... you're only children," he said, torn with conflicting feelings.

In the distance, the three ponies all heard the magistrate's voice echo out

"Guard! Have you found any sign of the ruffians yet?" The stallion took a look at the two colts. One was barely on the cusp of stallionhood, no older than thirteen, and the other was even younger, definitely not in the double digits of age. Both of their faces were petrified with fear as they held their stolen contraband. He took a deep, regretful sigh and sheathed his sword.

"Go. I'll tell him I lost you." Swift nodded his gratitude before bolting in the opposite direction. Flash ran, but hesitated, looking back at the stallion. He hated knowing he would be responsible for the guard getting in undeserved trouble, but he had to leave. After a few more seconds, he two took a turn and vanished from sight.

The magistrate came up to the guard just a few moments later. "Guard, did you find the rapscallions who stole my bits?"

Damn me for having a conscience. It would be so much easier if I didn't. the guard thought to himself. He was still a meager junior officer, still in the process of training for officership, and what he was about to say was a gamble on everything he had worked for in the last year. "No, sir. I'm afraid they outran me and I lost them in the streets."

The magistrates face turned a deep red. "What? Outwitted by common thieves? What kind of a guard are you? You can rest assured I will file a complaint to your superior, you insufferable twit," the magistrate complained and left with a huff as the guard followed closely behind him.

The magistrate did eventually file a formal complaint that went on the record of the guard, but in the future, the politician would come to greatly regret it. It was the only blemish on the otherwise spotless and meritorious career record of future Captain of the Guard Shining Armor.

Night fell quickly as Swift and Flash celebrated. True to his word, Swift had bought him and Flash enough sweet rolls to make them both sick. They even took some to save for later. He also bought two fresh sodas, one for each of them, to take back to their quarters.

They entered the small hideout they managed to have in the slums. It was a room in an old tenement that had long since been abandoned due to a fire that had destroyed the Western half of the building. While the side that was burnt had no structural stability and the first floor was damp at best and flooded at worst, the second floor was much more livable.

Swift nudged the pitiful, knob-less excuse for a door aside as they entered the room they used, which was the most dry and least dirty of the building's still standing living spaces. It was really nothing special: a small one room apartment, an old beaten up chest of drawers, a one pony sized mattress that the two colts both slept on, and a tiny fireplace barely big enough for a few lumps of coal. there was one window on the far side of the room.

That window offered one of the few pleasant features of the room. From that window, a pony could see many of the landmarks of the city: The Great Gate of Canterlot, The Grand Bazaar, even the Grand Memorial of King Solaris. However, the true gem was a spectacular view of the Royal Sisters' Palace. Often, at night when the two returned from the marketplace, Swift would head straight to bed and Flash would stay up, looking out over the city.

Today was not very different. Swift flopped onto the mattress as Flash went over to the window. The Palace was the only thing that seemed to be alive in the city this late. Lights shown brightly from every surface of the Gala and the sounds of music and merriment could be heard even halfway across the city. Even fireworks illuminated the night sky and filled the young pegasus with wonder.

"Hey, Swift. Can we go to the Gala next year?"

Swift continued staring at the ceiling, relaxing after the excitement of the day. "No, Flash. Only nobility are lucky enough to get tickets to the Gala."

Flash turned to his big brother curiously. "What's a nobility?"

Swift was in the awkward situation of being annoyed by his little brother's admittedly adorable question. "You know, nobility. Like politicians, merchants, especially knights in the Royal Guard."

Flash picked up a small piece of wood. "I'm going to become a knight then, Swift! I'll slay Dragons, get treasure, all that stuff!" He swung the stick, demonstrating his legendary ability with a sword by swatting the air before raising the plank skyward victoriously.

Swift smiled, but on the inside, he dreaded the inevitability of Flash's dreams shattering. Poor little guy. It'll break his heart when he realizes he could never become a knight with his class. Swift decided it was best to let his brother dream for now, though. "Don't forget you have to save and kiss the princess," he joked.

Flash acted like he was sick, repulsed at the thought of having to kiss a filly. "No way! Fillies are gross. Bleh." Swift chuckled at his little brother. Flash fell down on the mattress beside his brother, his head resting on Swift's shoulder. "Swift, do you think, if I do everything but the princess kissing, I can be a guard and a knight one day?" Flash asked as his eyes grew too heavy

Dammit, Flash. Why did you have to ask that? You could have asked where foals come from and that would have been less awkward for me than this, Swift lamented inwardly. "Of course," he lied.

Flash smiled before drifting off to sleep beside his brother. Swift stayed up a little longer, pondering his brother's wish. How badly he wanted to have been telling the truth- to be able to know his brother could be a knight- could not be described with words. But, alas, what someone wishes and what is real are two separate things. There is no way that Flash could ever be knighted: not with his low birth as a bastard and orphan, not with his class as a penniless urchin, and certainly not with their lives based upon petty thievery. If only Swift could get a better life for Flash...

Suddenly, something caught Swift's eye. Out the window, in the sky, something brilliantly soared through the heavens. At first Swift mistook it for a stray firework, but it didn't explode. He realized it was a genuine shooting star. In any other scenario, the old tradition of wishing on a shooting star would seem ridiculous, but the wish he would offer would be equally ludicrous.

Listen... I don't really know how this works... I've never been one for superstitions and all, but if there is a god or spirit or anything listening... please, please give my brother Flash a shot at becoming a knight. I know it's stupid, I know it's impossible, and

I know it's the sort of thing that could only happen in a dream, but I'd give anything at all for him to be happy. Please, just hear me out this once...

The light from the heavenly body eventually faded. "Well, it was worth a shot..." Swift whispered before he closed his eyes and let his mind drift into limbo

~~*~~

"Twilight. It's time for you to go to bed," Princess Cadence called out as she entered Twilight's room. The foalsitter found the young purple filly at a desk reading a book. She looked back at Cadence with disappointed eyes.

"But Cadence, I was just getting to the chapter on ethereal manipulation. Please, just a few more minutes?" Though at first Cadence was perplexed at the ability the little filly had to retain knowledge, she was starting to get used to it. Sometimes she even forgot how young Twilight was, especially when she started throwing out scientific ideas on the nature of magic.

"Sorry, Twilight, but you really need to get to sleep. Your parents said they wanted you in bed by the time they got back from the Gala." Cadence trotted over to Twilight's bed and pulled the sheets back. She gently levitated Twilight into the huge mass of cushions and blankets.

"Cadence, why are colts so weird?" Cadence was tucking her in as the question caught her a bit off guard.

"Umm... What do you mean, Twilight?" Cadence asked, a bit confused.

The little filly shrugged under the covers. "Well, I mean, I was with some of the other kids in school, and the colts kept saying I was covered in cooties, but I can't find a cooty anywhere in my books. What's a cooty, Cadence?"

Cadence couldn't help but give off that smile only foalsitters can when children say something accidentally cute. "Well," she started, "Cooties are this fake thing that colts say fillies have so that they have an excuse to stay away from them."

Twilight cocked her head. "Are they contagious?"

Cadence gave a small laugh. "No, Twilight. They're perfectly harmless. In fact, eventually, when the colts grow up to be stallions and you grow up to be a mare, the cooties will be completely gone, and then they will want to be around you."

"Is that why stallions pay so much attention to you? When we walk around town, I noticed a bunch of stallions whistle at you and try to talk to you. Is that cause you don't have cooties?" Twilight asked innocently.

Cadence tried to fight the rising embarrassment, not yet ready to explain to the filly just how and why mares and stallions show such interest in each other. "Well, sort of. It's complicated, Twilight. I'll tell you when you're older." Cadence was about to leave the room, but the voice of the inquisitive unicorn beckoned her again.

"Hey Cadence, how does love work?"

Cadence didn't really have much of a response for that one. Explaining love to someone Twilight's age was pretty difficult given how complicated of a subject it is. But she's a lot smarter than her age, she thought to herself. Just tell her plainly. Cadence drew a sigh. "Well, Twilight, love is this really strange feeling whenever a mare and a stallion just kind of recognize they care about each other."

"I care about my brother. Does that count?" Twilight asked.

Cadence blushed a bit. "No, Twilight. It's a different sort of love. It's more like how your mom and dad act towards each other.You know... like a special somepony?"

"What do you mean?" Twilight responded, curious about the whole thing. She could read books years ahead of her level, but relationships were a different matter entirely, and she was barely even friends with anyone other than Cadence and her family, let alone bearing a crush for someone.

"Well... You know in the old pony tales when there would be a princess and a knight would come and save her? It's kind of like that. It's more of a romantic ideal where the damsel in distress has someone there for her... Someone with big strong hoofs to hold you... bright blue eyes... that charming smile..." Cadence said, fixated on a mental image of her and Twilight's brother, Shining Armour. It was a poorly kept secret that she and Shining had eyes for each other. Neither was free to pursue the other, though: Shining was always busy in the Guard as a new recruit and when Cadence wasn't busy foalsitting Twilight, she was learning how to act as a proper princess from Aunt Celestia. Still, she couldn't help but picture herself in his hooves, both gazing into each other's eyes, going for a kiss...

She shook herself out of her reverie when she realized she had been saying all of that out loud. She turned to leave, responding, "...but you're too young to be worrying about that. Goodnight, Twilight."

"Does that mean you and Shining are going to get married one day?"

Cadence's face turned beat red. "Goodnight, Twilight," she squeaked before exiting the bedroom and shutting the door.

Twilight sat and thought about what Cadence had said. She liked the idea of being a princess, and of having a knight to herself. She may not have completely understood love like Cadence was explaining it, but there was a certain happy feeling she got in her heart when she thought about having somepony there for her.

Something out the window caught her eye: a bright light gleaming as it swept through the starry night sky.

A shooting star.

She looked up and gazed in wonder at the beautiful heavenly object. She had read about heavenly bodies, including these incorrectly termed stars, but she never pictured they would look so radiantly stunning. As tradition would have it, Cadence had told her, you were supposed to wish something when you saw the star so that it would come to pass. She whispered, fixated on the celestial light, "I wish I could be a princess like Cadence, all pretty and kind, and have my own knight to be my special somepony." The light eventually went out of sight as Twilight just stared at the ceiling and recited the order of spells she knew, categorized by complexity, before she eventually slipped off to slumber.

Chapter 4- Breakthrough

Thunk. Thunk. Thunk.

The sound repeated like an impetuous metronome, over and over at the same constant rhythm. Every now and then it would be punctuated by a shout or an exasperated grunt. Thus passed the next half hour as Twilight watched the stubborn pegasus stallion that she had met that morning repeatedly pound against the walls of their crystalline prison.

Twilight was trying to remember if she had seen the pony before. He looked somewhat familiar, but then again she had seen at least a few dozen guards over the last two days of her stay. Guards were already a relatively common sight in Canterlot's royal district, but the streets had been crawling with them since the threat of attack. She could have seen this stallion at any point and mistaken him for just another soldier.

Not that it would affect her opinion of the dumb brute much given their less than pleasant introduction earlier. Well, maybe even the term brute was a bit too generous given how light framed this stallion seemed for a guard. He'd have fit in more as a racer or acrobat in Twilight's opinion. Maybe he was just a courier for the military.

Perhaps it had just been the circumstances they met in, but Twilight sincerely disliked this stallion from all she knew about him. He was rude, clumsy, and incompetent. The only concession she had to make was that, from a purely empirical point of view looking at the facts, he was a rather attractive young stallion. Even then, it took more to soften Twilight up than simply a strong jaw and broad shoulders. She'd been around enough guards in her lifetime to get a feel for the patterns.

Twilight's experience with military ponies began literally at birth. Her father Nightlight was a decorated officer in the Royal Guard. He even was officially recognized as a member of the knightly order, The Knights of the Two. Being selected to become a paladin was an honor few soldiers had ever claimed, and yet her father and brother both had been honored with the titles due to their valor in combat.

However, her father and brother were both officers, men of exceptional character, intellect, and bravery. She learned from when she was young that was not always the case. Most of the stallions who made up the guard were just dense thugs who lacked a single brain cell among a whole cohort. Once she had been begrudgingly set up on a blind date with a fellow guardspony by her brother. All he did the entire date was brag about his former hoofball prowess and try to awkwardly hit on Twilight with lines like, "You're the hottest filly in this place!" Needless to say there wasn't a second date.

She turned her attention back to the fool pounding into the wall. "You know that isn't going to do anything."

The male pegasus just kept heaving himself at the wall. "I. Don't. Care," he answered, punctuating each word with another vain attempt to tackle the wall.

Twilight rolled her eyes. "All I'm saying is that's solid Purple Crystallite. This stuff doesn't budge. Why do you think they built the castle over it?" she pointed out.

"I said I don't care," Flash grunted through gritted teeth.

Twilight got up from her seated position, becoming more and more frustrated with this stallion's stubbornness. "Hey! I'm trying to talk to you. You're not doing any-"

Flash spun around, fury plain as day on his face. "Would you just shut up already? I mean Celestia almighty! You're the whole reason I'm in this mess!"

Twilight's tone suddenly matched his in both anger and volume. "What? How am I the reason you're in this mess?"

Flash's eyes narrowed. "If it weren't for you running into me this morning, I'd have just made my rounds and come on back to the mess hall and had a nice big bowl of oats waiting for me. But, no. Instead I got caught up in your mess."

Twilight raised her voice, quickly losing her cool. "Oh, yeah? Well then why did you stay? When I went inside the cathedral, you could've easily left like the others. So why didn't you?"

Flash grunted in frustration, shaking his head. "I don't know... maybe... maybe I just felt a little sorry for you," Flash said. He genuinely had felt for the lavender unicorn. It wasn't too long ago he had been abandoned with no resources, no friends, and most painful of all, no Swift.

However, in the heat of the moment, Twilight must have mistook the empathy for snark. "Sorry for me? I beg your pardon? I don't need any pity."

Flash scowled "Fine then, don't accept kindness when it's given. Let's see how far that gets you in life." The Pegasus resumed his relentless assault on the wall.

Twilight glared at the Stallions back for a few minutes before letting out a sigh. She was being unfair she admitted to herself, her and this Guard were stuck down here together and there was no point in giving him a hard time because of her mistakes and her problems.

"Look." Twilight said a bit grumpily "I'm sorry, okay?"

Flash paused in his wall assault and looked back at the lavender mare, to be honest he was quite surprised by the apology. He awkwardly rubbed the back of his head.. Well... Helmet.

"Yeah, well, I suppose I'm sorry too." He said "It's not really your fault I got stuck down here."

Twilight nodded, a scowl coming back to her face "Your right, it's the fault of 'Princess Mi Amore Cadenza'" she said in an angry fake-snooty tone.

"Yeah, do you know exactly what in Tartarus happened up there? I don't recall hearing that Princess Cadence had turned into a psychopath." Flash said.

Guiltily surprised that the Stallion even knew what a psychopath was, Twilight answered "I don't know, she was so kind when I was young... I don't know what happened to her." Twilight looked up with determined look in her eye "But I know she has to be stopped."

Flash had to admit, the mare had spirit and he couldn't help but respect that. "Well we can't do that while we're stuck down here." He turned back to the wall and was about to smash into it again when the mare spoke up again.

"Don't waste your energy, we should think of a different way."

Flash sighed and removed his helmet, letting it clank to the ground "Your right" he said, turned back to face the lavender mare and sat down.

This was the first time Twilight had seen the Stallions features in full light, and she was a but embarrassed to admit that she was a but taken. With a strong jawline and equal features, the features gave a sense of both sophistication and ruggedness.

"What's your name?" Twilight suddenly asked, startling the Pegasus.

"Flash Sentry." He said "You?"

"Twilight Sparkle."

Flash cracked his first smile "Pleasure to meet you, Twilight Sparkle."

Twilight's breath caught in her throat, but she managed to return the smile "And you as well." She said, Flash's grin widened and bit before he said.

"Now if you'll excuse me I have a wall to break down."

Twilight's eyes widened "But I told you, you can't-" she was interrupted by Flash Sentry running and tackling the wall once more, his armour clanging against the crystalline and echoing through the caves.

"-Break through it." Twilight finished as Flash bounced off, he went to tackle the wall again when Twilight shouted "Wait!"

Flash looked at her "Look I know it's pointless but unless you have a better idea.."

"But I do!" Twilight exclaimed, jumping up and brushing past Flash. She placed her ear to the purple crystal that the Pegasus had been smacking against and placed her ear to it. She began tapping her hood against the wall and listening carefully.

"What are you doing?" Flash asked, but Twilight only waved her hoof frantically at him.

"Hush!" She commanded and Flash shut up, too curious to question her motives.

After a minute of tapping and listening Twilight sprang back from the wall "It's hallow!" She proclaimed.

"Hallow?" Flash asked.

"Yes! Stand back!" They both stood away from the wall and Twilight charged her horn, purple energies gathered and manifested at the tip of the artifice, a bolt of magical energy struck the Crystal and sparked across it's surface, cracks followed in their wake and the wall crumbled down into dust.

On the other-side seemed to be a long hall that lead far past their vision. But what got their attention was the bedraggled and ruffled mare that lay on the ground. It was Princess Cadence.

Twilight, her horn still sparking from magical outflow, contorted her face in rage and ran full-pelt at Cadence. Who only had time to recognize Twilight and say "Wait, it's-" before she was tackled by one-hundred and twenty-three pounds of lavender fury. Twilight overshot it though and rolled off of Cadence, who in turn jumped to her hoof's

"Twilight! It's me! Cadence! The one up there is a fake!" She pleaded.

"Like I would fall for that!" Twilight scoffed, charging her horn for a deadly spell but hesitated when Cadence began to hop oddly on her hooves, as if dancing.

"Sunshine, sunshine." She chanted, hopping. Then she leaned down and covered her eyes with her hooves as if cowering.

"Ladybugs awake." She sang, uncovering her eyes, then sat up again.

"Clap your hooves." Cadence clapped her hooves against Twilights, who's horn lay dormant now.

"And do a little shake." She said in conclusion, shaking her rump in Twilights direction.

Flash was more than a little confused at the display but it seemed to have an effect on Twilight as her anger dissipated and she ran over and embraced the Princess.

"Cadence.." She said, squeezing her.

"It's good to see you too Twilight." Cadence said, returning the hug. They split apart and Twilight immediately began talking.

"But if your down here, who's up there about to marry my brother!?" She said.

"There's no time to explain, we have to get up there and stop her!" Cadence started galloping down the hall "Come on!" Twilight and Flash exchanged one look before sprinting after her.

~~*~~

The trio burst through the doors to the wedding hall, the fake Cadence and Captain shining Armour stood at the altar where Celestia stood. Cadence trotted right up and pointed at her double-ganger.

"She's a fake!" Cadence declared "A Changeling!" The crowd burst into chatter an shouts of surprise as the fake Cadence convulsed, a ring of green fire surrounded her and encompassed her entirely, the fire grew before dissipating and revealing a completely different creature.

This one was tall, as large as Princess Celestia, and coal black in colour. Her hooves and body appeared to have holes running through them as well as her jagged horn. Her wings appeared to be insect in nature.

Cadence took a step forward but the insect laughed mockingly

"Ah, ah, ah." She said "Don't want to go back to the caves, now do you? Ever since I took your place, I've been feeding off Shining Armor's love for you. Every moment he grows weaker and so does his spell. Even now my minions are chipping away at it."

"Soon, my changeling army will break through. First, we take Canterlot. And then, all of Equestria!"

Flash was wondering where he had gone in life, honestly, why was he stuck in the middle of an invasion? He could have been sleeping in the barracks right now. Luckily he was spared from making any actions by Princess Celestia stepping forward.

"No. You won't. You may have made it impossible for Shining Armor to perform his spell, but now that you have so foolishly revealed your true self." Celestia lunged forward and locked horns with the Bug Queen "I can protect my subjects from you!" Celestia flared her wings and took to the air, manifesting her magic as she did so, golden energies swirled around her and the sunlight streaming through the various windows appeared to intensify.

Celestia shot a beam of energy at her foe and the Bug Queen met with her own sickly green beam, the two energy blasts met and seemed to struggle for dominance before Celestia's beams was push back and everyone was bolden by a flash of light.

As the light faded, one could here a pin drop as Celestia slumped to the ground, her tiara clanking to the ground. No one moved for a fraction of a second before the screaming started, the hall quickly fell into a panic as everypony rushed out of the hall. Flash lost sight of Twilight in a sea of Ponies, in seconds the hall was empty of civilians.

Meanwhile the insect was chuckling menacingly "It appears the power of Shining Amour's love was greater than I thought."

Before Flash could stop her Twilight had galloped to Celestia's side along with the six bridesmaids-the six mares from before.

They spoke briefly-Flash let out a breath to see that the Princess wasn't dead-before the bridesmaids threw off their dresses-Flash felt his face heat up-and approach the exit.

"Come on Flash." Twilight said. One of the remaining guards tossed a sword and sheath to Flash who nodded his thanks, they left the Guardsponies with the Insect, their spears lowered and slowly advancing on the laughing Queen.

Flash strapped the weapon to his side and ran with the six mares down the Main Street of Canterlot, above them the purple sheer that Shining Armour had conjured up was cracking and shaking, hundreds of small black insects, similar to their Queen, poured through the holes and descended upon them.

They were soon surrounded by the insect horde, all of them hissing, clicking, and leering at them. Flash took his sword in his mouth and stepped forward, blocking Twilight, he may have just met her but it was his duty as a Royal Guard to protect the innocent. And he knew know that she definitely qualified.

The situation got a bit more complicated as one by one the Changeling's were enveloped by green light before transforming into copies of of the six mare's and Flash. Barely a second passed before the insects attacked.

Flash lost sight of the five bridesmaids but managed to stay by Twilight, she herself kept a rapid-fire blast of purple beams slamming into the Changelings. Flash held them off her back , slicing through their brittle chitin shells and making them bleed a green ooze. Wave after wave came sporting all sorts of faces. A fellow guard, Shining Armour, Twilight, that rainbow mare, Princess Celestia, Swift Hoof smiling at him and beckoning him closer...

Wait, what?

Flash pushed a Changeling off of him and stared through a gap in the horde, Swift Hoof was there, alive and well, smiling at Flash and beckoning to him. Flash couldn't think, somewhere in the back of his mind a small voice screamed at him for believing such an obvious ruse but it was drowned by the sheer joy he felt at seeing his brother.

The sword dropped to the ground with a loud clank, Twilight looked behind her and saw that Flash was looking at something with an intense look. Her unasked questioned was answered when he suddenly yelled "Brother!" And took off into the horde.

Twilights calls fell on deaf ears, Flash pushed the Changelings out of his way to reach Swift but soon lost sight of him. Frantically he looked around for his brother but stopped when a sharp pain exploded in his back.

Flash slowly looked down and saw a wickedly curved black horn jutting out of his chest, blood leaked from the hole as the spike was pulled out. The last thing Flash Sentry saw was Swift Hoof standing there and transforming into a laughing Changeling, a mare screamed his name and he blacked out.