Twilight's Love Story: Part One

by Derpyforever

Rating: everyone
Tags: Twilight Sparkle, Alternate Universe, Main 6, Romance, Drama, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Adventure, Flash Sentry
Length: 9293

Twilight and Flash have feelings for the other, and Twilight's friends notice. However, in their efforts to aid her, they accidentally bring back old, yet horrible memories, stirring them from Twilight's mind.

Twilight Sparkle’s best friends discover she has new found feelings for Flash Sentry, a guardstallion of the Crystal Empire. They attempt to bring the two together, but when things do not go exactly as plan, Twilight is forced to overcome past events that have come back from its resting place to haunt her conscious.

(A reboot of the Twilight's Love Story series. Since quite a few major things will be changed from the previous version, as well as a much bigger diversion from the original show (hence the alternate universe tag), I am posting this as a separate story.)

Published 2017-01-05 16:30:01 UTC
Last updated 2017-03-06 01:29:54 UTC

Chapter 1-Bumping Into Love

The sun branches its long arms of light to hug the land in its warmth. However, the sparkling structures of the Crystal Empire obstructed the pathway for the land to feel the love of the sun. Despite the sun’s best efforts, the ground will always feel cold and lonesome even with its pony friends that tend to the earth’s needs in return for a safe home. Yet even then, the homes the ponies build get in the way and deny the compassionate feelings the two want to share.

The ponies do not mean for this to happen. After all, they need shelter to raise their families and live a satisfying life. It is a place of peace for them.

Well, except for the group of ponies who could not be any farther from being at ease. It has been quite some time since the Princess of Friendship, Twilight Sparkle, has disappeared into the portal shaped as a mirror. Nopony spoke, nopony slept. Princess Celestia and Princess Cadance watched as Twilight’s best friends all impatiently wiggled around.

“Aunt Tia,” Cadance’s voice was low, though it more than likely would not have mattered, a draconequus could have blown through and the five ponies would not have noticed, “If… When Twilight gets back, will we include her onto the Royal Family? I… I am worried what she will think of everything involved.”

“Twilight is my star pupil and has had to face many challenges before,” Celestia spoke words of silk to her niece, calming her nerves, “I must admit, I am a little nervous how she will react, but I have full faith she will not be hindered by such secrets.”

“I understand,” Cadance nodded her head, taking off her crown, “I am just scared for her. It is not everyday you learn about yourself.”

“Cadance,” Celestia placed a soft hoof on one of Cadance’s, “There is no need to worry. It will be a shock, but she is a mighty mare, she will recover from the news… when it is time to tell her.”

Cadance brought her hoof away, raising a suspicious eyebrow towards Celestia, “You are not going to tell her now? She deserves to know.”

“Now is not the time. She has many troubles as it is and needs time to settle into her new role,” Celestia took a breath, quick but steady, “It will have to come later, for now she has an adventure to recollect and recover.”

“Twilight,” Fluttershy, normally teased for her weak wings, shot up into the air at such a quick speed, it made Rainbow jump.

“You’re back and you’ve got your crown,” Rarity, along with the others, briskly ran to the purple alicorn’s side as Spike and Twilight wobbly walked back through the portal on her hind leg before she landed back on all fours, “You have no idea how worried we have all been.”

“I was worried too,” Twilight smiled and hugged all her friends as they gathered around, “I thought I might be stuck there for another thirty moons.”

“Sunset Shimmer,” Celestia stood up and look down to her pupil, “Is she alright?”

“I think she’s gonna be fine,” Twilight nodded gently and gave a reassuring smile to Celestia, “I left her in good hands.”

“Uh, what are hands,” Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow.

“Oh, I have a quite a story to tell you guys,” Twilight smirked.

After saying their farewells to Celestia when she departed for home, the group of ponies listened to Twilight as she told them of her adventures in the mirror world. Reliving the adventure through words, she told them of all the friends she made and the weird creature she had become. How she first felt foreign to the world before she became like friend that has always been there, and helping another become just the same.

“That’s amazing, Twilight,” Rainbow smirked, “So this other me, would you say she just as awesome as I am?”

“Yes,” Twilight shot Rainbow with a sly grin, “And twice as annoying.”

The others laughed when Rainbow expression went from smug to sour in mere seconds. Twilight stuck her tongue out at Rainbow, therefore not paying attention to where she was going and colliding with another soft body.

“Oh! Pardon me, Princess,” the guardspony helped Twilight off the smooth, frigid floor and accorded her an affable smile, “We have to stop bumping into each other like this.”

Twilight sensed her face had become flushed for her speech was flustered. This was not the first time the two had run into each other. A few days before, Twilight had bumped into the same guard when she arrived at the Crystal Castle, “Y-Yes, I should pay, um, more attention to where I-I’m going.”

“Tis my fault, your highness,” the guard bowed in a respect, “I am a guard. I must always be on alert. Well, I’ll be on my way. I hope I wasn’t a distraction from your day.”

‘If only he knew,’ Twilight thought, her already glowing cheeks becoming an even more vibrant color. She did not attempt to speak again in fear of becoming more embarrassed than she already was, thus responding with an unsure nod. Her eyes were almost glued to him when he passed by her, walking with long but silent strides past the group and back onto patrol as he turned a corner

“Who was that,” Twilight voice had come out shaky, her eyes still on the spot the guard had disappeared from.

“He’s one of our new guardspony from the Guardspony Exchange program we have with Canterlot. His name,” Cadance paused for a moment, tapping her chin in thought, “I believe it’s Flash Sentry. Quite a few guards were sent here from Celestia, so I could be wrong.”

“You might want to double check, deary,” Rarity snickered, a devious expression aimed at Twilight, “That name might be pretty important to her.”

“W-what,” Twilight defensively stood off against Rarity, glaring daggers at her, “It’s not important! It could be he just…”

“Totally reminds you of a guy you met in the other world who played guitar, was in a band, and helped prove you didn't destroy all the decorations for a big dance, so you could still run for princess of the big dance, and then asked you to dance at that dance,” Pinkie gasped for sweet relief of air, then grinned as she turned her head, “That’s right, I’m back!”

“Pinkie, who are you talking to,” Rainbow and the others stared at Pinkie with significant concern when she seemingly spoke to the wall.

“Oh, just to some special ponies that mean a lot to us for being so awesome,” Pinkie beamed, happily hopping back into the group.

“U-Us…”

“How did you know that,” Twilight gaped at the pink pony, her eyes wide in astonishment.

“Just a hunch!”

“So you admit it! This Flash Sentry has caught your fancy,” Rarity gleefully cheered and humiliatingly hugged the alicorn, “Princess Twilight Sparkle has an eye on a handsome suitor!”

“Don’t call him handsome,” Twilight snarled and pushed her away. Only moments later when she realized her snappy attitude did she laughed awkwardly, “I-I mean. I don’t care about this… what’s his name again? I’m just really tired and would like to rest, come on Spike.”

“Hey! Wait up,” Spike called after Twilight, his tiny legs trying their best to readjust to only being on two while keeping up with the purple pony zooming down the hall.

“I better go after her, make sure she’s fine,” Cadance turned to the others and presented a small bow as a farewell. Afterwards, Cadance departed in the direction of Twilight.

“That mare needs to get her priorities straight,” Applejack chuckled, her country accent livening up the room after the spontaneous outbreak from Twilight

“It really is such a tragedy,” Rarity sighed shaking her head, “Romance refusing to blossom. I will not let this rose wilt! I propose we find a way to bring these two together.”

“And how do you suppose we do that,” Rainbow interjected, landing down on the hard tile.

“I have an idea…”

“Well, we obliviously can not let Twilight know what we are up to. She would more than likely lock herself up inside her library, never coming out again.”

“Ha! Come on, Rarity,” Applejack laughed, “She wouldn’t do that. I agree though, we can’t let her know what we are up to. We should also make sure she wouldn’t realize who he was until the perfect moment.”

“Valid point,” Rarity nodded in agreement, “It would be a wise decision to have Twilight associate herself with his personality rather his physical being. It will help Twilight feel more comfortable breaking the ice.”

“I have an idea…”

“We should have some sort of party,” Pinkie chortled and bounced at her own idea, “It would be super duper fun! Aaaaand we can keep an eye on Twilight at the same time. And I can have cake! Oh oh, and mayb-”

“I have an idea!”

The four turned their attention at Fluttershy, the normally soft-spoken pegasus had suddenly yelled in annoyance at the others.

“Well, why didn’t ya say something?! Spill it,” Applejack said.

“Well, um, I volunteered to manage the upcoming New Year Party. I was thinking, if you guys think it’s a good idea, if I made it a costume party,” Fluttershy said, her words barely peeping out past her lips, “Twilight wouldn’t be able to recognize him and we’d be able to keep an eye on her in case she needs help.”

“That is a splendid idea, darling,” Rarity’s muzzle lit up in excitement, “It is exactly the kind of event we need! Outstanding thinking, Fluttershy!”

“Thank you,” Fluttershy blushed and hid behind her mane from the praise.

“So, it’s settled then! We must prepare for the occasion! I, Rarity, the most excellent matchmaker Equestria has ever seen, with all my pow-”

“Get on with it, everypony isn’t here to listen to you boast,” Pinkie intervened, rolling her eyes towards the ceiling “If anything, they’re here for my not so subtle outbursts.”

“Pinkie… Who are you talking about,” Rainbow raised an eyebrow.

Pinkie smiled, her bubbling personality returned, “Oh, don’t mind me, just being a little comedic relief as always.”

“... Call me crazy, but I have a serious case of deja vu,” Rainbow turned to the other three who only responded with a confused shrug.

“It happens,” Pinkie giggled, “Now come on, let’s get to working.”

The others were in a bit discombobulated, but shook it off, following the hopping pony. They still have a mission… they only hope that nothing goes wrong.

(To Be Continued)

Chapter 2-New Year's Party

"You can't honestly expect us to let you miss out on the New Year Party, Twilight," Rarity elegantly placed her tall stack of books on the center table of Twilight's library, so graceful, not even a speck of dust was disturbed, "This party is Ponyville's Grand Galloping Gala."

"I'm sorry, Rarity. I have to catch up on my studies," Twilight had put her own stack next to Rarity's, "I appreciate your help with reorganizing my home, though. I have ha-whoa!"

Twilight did not pay attention to how far off the edge the books were. They wobbled back and forward, threatening to fall upon her, and she would have been at their mercy had Rarity not froze them.

"You seem to be a bit distracted, darling," Rarity placed the books in their proper position, a knowing smirk on her face, "Somepony on your mind?"

'No, but I do have somepony on my case,' Twilight's thoughts echoed like a dark cavern inside her head. She did not thank Rarity for protecting her, but simply walked around the table to a long scroll.

"My mind is on my studies," Twilight undid the thin string and allowed the parchment to roll out into a blueprint, "I was going to spend some time searching the Castle of the Two Sisters. I think I located a library within these old construction blueprints and I was hoping to find some lessons from Princess Celestia's and Princess Luna's foalhood. It would really help me learn more about my role as a princess."

"Oh, can't you hold off your studies for one night," Rarity got in between her and the large paper, "I honestly can't remember the last time us girls have had a get together that didn't involve the fate of Equestria. At least attend for Fluttershy, she put a lot of effort into planning this party."

Twilight sighed, rubbed her forehead, and manifested an open planner, "Well, I suppose I can double my studies tomorrow. After all, you girls are my best friends, it would be rude of me not too."

"Splendid! I already have a costume designed just for you! We must head to my boutique for you to try it on," Rarity was bubbling in excitement, rushing to the door and cutting off Twilight in the process, "Oh... my apologies, Twilight, I didn't mean to get in your way."

"It's fine," although shaking her head, an understanding smile was plastered across her face, "You and fashion, it's a bond that can't be broken."

"You got that right, deary," Rarity restarted her excited trot, a bounce that rivaled their pink friend, "Now, hurry up, Twilight! We haven't long until the party starts."

Twilight chuckled and chased after Rarity, unsuspecting of the fashionista's romance implanting intentions.

For the whole week, Twilight's friends have been planning to bring Flash and her together. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy were busy overseeing the preparations for the big night.

This event, though minuscule in size compared to other celebrations throughout Equestria, was always major buzz for the citizens of Equestria, mainly Ponyville. Everything symbolized a refreshing start in life

A feast was cooked in hopes for an even better harvest next year. An open dance brought the townsfolk together, restrengthening friendships while creating new ones. Finally, a kiss at the strike of midnight was to rekindle the spirits of couples in their relationships.

The traditions were passed for generations within Ponyville, but with its grown population, the invitations have extended across all over Equestria; from as far south as Appleloosa to as far north as the Crystal Empire.

Now, with the sun setting for its final time this year, Ponyville’s train station flooded with hundreds of ponies dressed for the occasion. It was as if Nightmare Night had come back for a second helping in Ponyville. Costumes littered the area making it hard to distinguish who was where.

“Anypony see Rainbow,” Applejack tried her best to stretch her neck above the crowd, “She said she’d be in her Shadow-what’s-it costume”

Fluttershy felt uncomfortable in the crowd of ponies, clinging onto Applejack for safety, “A Shadow-what’s-it?”

“Shadowbolt,” Pinkie corrected, jumping on an annoyed and strained Applejack for a higher view, “Oh! Oh! Here she comes!”

Applejack was relieved as her buckling knees were freed of the pink pony’s weight. She readjusted herself and let out a relaxed sigh. She and Fluttershy followed Pinkie, meeting up with the cyan pony.

“Sup guys,” Rainbow said, “Mission success. Turns out the dude has total heart eyes for Twilight.”

“He said that,” Applejack raised an eyebrow, never believing what the prankster has to say.

“I saw it. Whole face lit up when I told him about the party,” Rainbow grinned, mocking her own voice with a snobby, high class accent, “I said ‘Princess Twilight Sparkle formally invites any inhabitants of the Crystal Empire to Ponyville’s New Year Party of which she herself shall attend. Please pass this message along to Princess Mia Amora Cadenza and Prince Shining Armor, thank you.’ His face? Priceless!”

“Now that’s just plain rude, Rainbow,” Applejack glared at the laughing pegasus, “Still, at least he knows of the party. Cadance giving a mandatory weekend break for the Regular Guard and party preparations went without a hitch… everything is…perfect. Not that I’m ungrateful, but it seems a little too easy. Normally something goes wrong by now. No evil ponies, no friendship epidemic… heck, I sort of expected Discord to maybe drop in here and ruin everything with some chaotic nonsense.”

“Hey! Discord may have made some past mistakes, but he’s still good,” Fluttershy spoke up defensively for Discord, “Oh… uh, sorry I didn’t meant to snap. I do agree, though. It does seem strange nothing has happened.”

“Ah, don’t worry about it guys, it’s only the second chapter,” Pinkie waved her hoof of to the side, “We’ll have plenty of time for conflict later.”

“...What,” Rainbow scratched her head, “Pinkie, you’re doing it again.”

“Doing what?”

“I’m… I’m just gonna pretend nothing happened.”

“Whatever floats your boat,” Pinkie giggled, bouncing up and down.

“Oh! Darlings, there you are,” Rarity bobbed out from the sea of ponies, “I thought I wouldn’t be able to find you four. Twilight will be here momentarily, she is just putting the finishing touches to her costume. And of Flash? I assume he will be here soon?”

“Sooner than you think, I see him now,” Rainbow said, hovering her head above the crowd. Coming from the current train, Flash Sentry stepped out onto the platform and was covered head to tail in a magician outfit. His blue mane tucked into a top hat, a slender wand, a sleek, black tuxedo, and a dark domino mask that fit snugly around his eyes.

“Perfect. Oh! And here comes Twilight, my work, impeccable,” Rarity marveled at her own craft when it headed their direction.

The other four were stunned by the beauty before them. A dress stained yellow flowed by the alicorn’s side, though, it was embedded with tiny, round citrine crystals. The smooth crystals were arranged in rows that gave the impression of scales slithering through the crowd. The dress went from a reptilian tail all the way up and stopped short of her chin, where a masquerade mask took over, having the same scaly texture as the dress.

Under all the flashy costume was Twilight Sparkle, happily trotting to her friends, “Evening, girls, it’s good to see you all for the party.”

The bustling sound of other ponies filled the response. The others could not even pick up their dropped jaws, let alone speak.

“Uhm… is everything ok?”

“Twilight… you look…,” Applejack was the first to try to build words together.

“Absolutely marvelous,” Rarity practically squealed in excitement, grabbing Twilight’s hooves, “I can not even begin to express how gorgeous you look.”

“Thank you, Rarity,” Twilight felt her face become a little darker from the praise, “It really is all your work, though. You were the one to come up with such an outstanding serpent design.”

“Deary, it’s not about the dress as much as it’s the lady inside it! Although, I must admit my craftsmanship is flawless, you, Twilight, are beautiful beyond comparison. It doesn’t matter what design I muster.”

“ Rarity,” Twilight’s face was not spared from her bright blush, she was glad her mask did cover part of her embarrassment. She became glad of Applejack’s intervention, putting a stop to any more praise.

“Alright, I think that’s enough complimenting. Everypony must already be at the festival. Come on, we don’t want to be late to host our own party.”

“We’re gonna be late for a party?! No no no no no no,” Pinkie Pie had zoomed off into the thinned crowd at unimaginable speeds, almost as if her own candy costume was giving her constant sugar high.

“Hey! Wait for us!”

The Apple family have always offered to lend their barren fields as a place to hold the events. It was the most optimal place to view Ponyville’s clock tower and, with such a number of ponies, a little elbow room was the highest priority for the festival. Catching the hyperactive pony at the stage, Fluttershy stepped up and tapped the mic.

“U-Uh. E-excuse me… everypony. C-Can I have your attention, um, if you don’t mind that is.”

Despite the many hours to raise the speakers for Fluttershy’s gentle voice, nopony heard a word, especially with the loud rumble of many conversations speaking at once.

“I got this,” Pinkie Pie nudged Fluttershy over and cleared her voice, “Hey! Everypony! Listen up!”

A series of agonized cries resulted from the screech of feedback. With covered ears and furrowed brows the crowd turned their attention to the stage.

“Welcome to the something, something annual Ponyville New Year’s Party! Let’s skip the formalities and get straight to the point. The buffet is courtesy of the Apple Farm, Sugar Cube Corner, and other anonymous restaurants due to exposition laziness! Everypony gather around and dig in!”

With tables set, the ponies claimed their seats and dined a prepared feast to be shared with all of Equestria. The ponies separated from their common cultural groups and mingled among with others who came from across the diverse country while enjoying laughs, making new friends, and finding new love.

At least, the latter was on Rarity’s mind. The six friends, despite the chaotic commotion, managed to stick together. Finding empty seats along with empty bellies, they ate what was laid before them. Although joining in on the conversation with her friends, Rarity frantically scanned the rows of tables, looking for Flash Sentry. To her dismay, he was nowhere to be found.

“Rarity, is something the matter,” Twilight’s call reclaimed Rarity’s lost mind.

“Oh, of course not deary, I just... am really full,” Rarity tried her best to muster a convincing grin, setting her fork down on her untouched plate, “Mmm, this is quite the dinner we’ve set up. I think it’s time to work off those calories. Pinkie, care to start the dance?”

“Oh boy! Would I!”

With tables cleared and lights dimmed for the stage, Pinkie hopped to the mic, “Alright ponies! Either pick a friend, find your date, or shimmy down with a group, cause it is time for the Last Hour Dance! Go out, make friends, and boogie do-!”

“Uh, Pinkie,” Applejack interrupted, covering the mic, “It’s normal tradition to start with the slow dance before the real hoe down.”

“Oh, uh, my bad,” Pinkie blushed, rubbing the back of her neck, “So let’s get our… classic on?”

“There you go.”

With the cue, an orchestra, bows raised and minds ever sharp, played a slow but pleasant melody. Ponies, with either dates or new found partners, began to move like a river. A simple yet swift movement, a dance passed down for generations.

“Twilight, dear, don’t you want to join in on the fun,” Rarity walked over to Twilight standing off in a darker corner, “I know you have not had much practice with these moves, but its fairly simple to learn.”

“No, I know how they work,” Twilight’s smile was accompanied by a content shrug, “I just don’t really feel like dancing with anypony special. Isn’t that what the first dance is for?”

“Oh, finding a special somepony is easy, and with you being a princess, why I’d expect a line of suitors from here to Canterlot.”

“Rarity,” Twilight scorned, feeling her face heat up, “That’s not what my role is for. Besides… I’m not really interested in meeting somepony. Especially if they just see me as a princess.”

“Well, what do you think the costume is for,” Rarity giggled, playfully tapping Twilight on the shoulder, “You can meet somepony without seeing them. Here, why don’t we go try talking to some stallions. Do it for me, Twilight. At least attempt at it.”

Twilight rubbed the spot between her eyes, “Fine. If it will get you out of my mane on this topic. Just one, alright.”

“Splendid,” Rarity exclaimed, “Follow me.”

Rarity pulled Twilight out of the dark shadows. While Twilight was busy adjusting to the crowd, Rarity waved her hoof at the Shadowbolt in the sky. Rainbow nodded and pointed down at a black top hat poking above the others’ heads.

“Rarity, what are you doing,” Twilight asked, trying to tug away.

Rarity ignored her, dragging her over to the stallion with the top hat, “Hello there, sir. I want to introduce you to a friend of mine. She wants to meet new ponies, and seeing how you have nopony to dance with, was wandering if you wouldn’t mind taking this one with her.”

“I’d be happy to help,” the stallion tipped his hat,

“Thank you, she really does have a har-”

“But I can’t. I’m already here with somepony else..”

“Wait… what? Are you not Sentry?”

“I am,” the orange pegasus nodded proudly, “a top notch guard for the Crystal Empire.”

“And you’re… with someone else?”

“Uh… yeah, was that not clear?”

“But… you… and Twilight…”

“Miss, are you alright? Your friend seems to have disappeared.”

“Twilight?”

Rarity turned around, realizing her hoof was not latched onto Twilight’s. She panicked and backed away, “Uh… sorry to have been a bother, Mr. Sentry. I must… uh, find my friend.”

“Wait, I’m not Mr. Sentry, that is my father, I’m,” before the stallion could answer, Rarity had already dashed off, frantically searching for Applejack help find their friend, “Oh… alright then.”

“You ok, bro,” a mare walked over, brushing the last of her tangled mane, “Who was that?”

“I don’t know. That mare just kind of walked up to me then bailed.”

“I told you that magician outfit doesn’t make you any more charming.”

“Shut it, sis. Hey, wasn’t our little bro suppose to be with you? Did you lose him already?”

“He’s not a foal, Sloth, he’s a grown stallion,” the mare crossed her hooves.

“Well, excuse me, Whinny,” Sloth glared, “But you know what mom and dad said. Stick together, always. Come on, let’s find him.”

“You’re turning more and more into dad, everyday, Sloth.”

“I said shut it!”

The two arguing siblings merged back into the crowd of costumes. Meanwhile, Twilight Sparkle had finally broken free of Rarity’s grip, although, she did take the advice and was trying to meet new ponies.

“Alright, Twilight, if you are to become a princess, you must learn how to converse with others,” Twilight declared followed by a sarcastic groan, “And you are speaking to yourself, great start and not creepy at all… Ugh, I’m sorry, Rarity, but I’m not fit for this kind of stuff.”

She groaned again, walking away from everypony and to an open bar for the festival. She slumped into one of the seats and rested her head on her hoof.

“Tough day?”

Twilight looked up and came mask to mask with a stallion next to her. She just chuckled and leaned back in her seat, “You have no idea. My friends dragged me out of my library to have fun here. Though, they are my best friends, so hanging with them isn’t so bad.”

“I understand,” the stallion gave a empathetic nod, “My brother dragged me over here. He thought it’d be cool to meet Princess Twilight Sparkle. Though, I’ve yet to see her.”

“Oh… she’s… around,” Twilight shrugged, deciding to play along with Rarity’s ideas, “She’s been under a lot of pressure though, princess stuff and all.”

“I bet. I work for the Crystal Guard and even just being in the same room as them, you can feel the constant stress emitting off of Princess Cadance and Prince Armor.”

“You work for the Crystal Guard,” Twilight teased, “You don’t seem like the tough but dumb stereotype everypony makes you all out to be.”

“Well, dumb maybe,” he laughed at her playfulness, “And tough to a certain extent. Inside though, I consider myself a pretty gentle guy.”

“Oh? You like a big ol’ walnut? Hard on the outside, but soft on the inside,” Twilight’s sportive grin and harmless shove earned her another hearty laugh from the stallion, “I find that as a pretty admirable trait.”

“Glad you think so,” the stallion laughed and stood out of his seat, “Hey, care to dance?”

“Well, I’m not the greatest dancer.”

“No worries,” the stallion shrugged at her and extended his hoof, “I’m not either.”

Twilight giggled and hid a blush. She decided to take his hoof, “If you insist.”

“This is getting too slow, I think it’s time we speed it up! This next song is an oldie… uh well… it’s an oldie where I come from. Just try to keep up,” Pinkie giggled, stepping up to the mic, “Far west of Appleloosa, close to Neigh Orleans; Way back up in the hills among the rocky scene; There stood a lone cabin made of stone and clod; Where lived a farming filly named Pinkie B. Goode…”

“Well, it seems we were spared a slow dance,” the stallion remarked and bringing Twilight towards him, “Probably for the best, I would have gotten bored with such formal nonsense.”

“Glad we both see eye to eye,” Twilight rubbed the back of her neck. She could feel her anxiousness returning and replacing her sudden outburst of confidence. The stallion took notice.

“Hey, why don’t you look me in the eyes instead,” he spoke gently as if handling a baby bird.

Twilight turned her attention to his eyes and felt a wave of relief wash over her. It was as if time slowed down for them and they were the center of the universe, feeling a strange connection they could not explain. It was only a few seconds, but it seemed like a many days. When the world caught back up with them, they blink, breaking away the eye contact.

“Uh… what’s… your name,” the stallion asked.

“My name… what is my name,” Twilight repeated, almost as if she forgot it, “Oh.. my name. It’s…”

“Alright everypony! Midnight approaches! All you couples, new and old, find your special somepony and get ready for the Midnight Kiss!”

“Midnight Kiss,” Twilight reiterated the last words she heard with her mind still lost.

“Really? That’s your name,” the stallion raised an eyebrow, “Pretty unconventional if you ask me.

“Uh, oh sorry, no,” Twilight blushed again, “I was… just wondering… I don’t have a date and since it’s tradition… and you know it’s bad to break traditions… I want to know…”

“I would like to,” the stallion finished, comforting the nervous mare.

“Really,” Twilight covered her mouth. She was a little too eager with her words and almost shouted, “I mean, uh, yea.”

“... Have you ever…”

“Kissed anypony? Nope, never,” Twilight nervously played with her mane.

“It’s alright, everypony has a first kiss,” the stallion took her hoof, his soothing instincts taking control again, “It’s simple. Just let it happen naturally. It’s what I’ve always been told.”

“Naturally, right…”

“Ten! Nine! Eight…”

“Ah,” Twilight yelped and jumped into the stallion’s hooves. She did not expect the crowd to all suddenly shout the countdown, “Uh, sorry.”

“It’s fine, I almost jumped too. Quick reflexes.”

“Always on duty, huh? Guards,” Twilight gently jabbed the stallion’s shoulder.

“Yet, who’s the one in who’s hooves,” the stallion smirked back at Twilight.

“Touche.”

It was a small laugh, a laugh that became locked eyes. The two were back into staring at each other, returning to their world, returning to their peace. They did not speak and the cheering crowd became nothing more than a distant sound. Without hesitation and despite feeling her heart racing, Twilight leaned towards the stallion. This was it, her first kiss was to be with this charming stallion. He was polite, kind, gentle, and unknowing that she was…

“Twilight Sparkle! Canterlot is in peril!”

(To Be Continued…)

Chapter 3-Anxiousness Awaits

Author's Note

Change of plans. Apparently, last night in my weariness, I posted this chapter on Fanfiction.net when I thought I just had it at the ready. So I decided to post this a few days early. Enjoy! :3

Chapter 3-Anxiousness Awaits

“Spike,” Twilight and her mystery stallion quickly pulled away from each other and reluctantly turned their attention to the purple dragon scampering his way through the crowd, “What’s wrong?!”

“Letter… Trouble… Kidnapped,” Spike was so flabbergasted and weary when he ran up to Twilight that any attempt for words went in vain.

“Spike, deep breaths, then tell me what’s wrong.”

“No… time… just look,” Spike placed a claw on Twilight’s head and pushed her gaze towards the horizon. The once dark lines were getting a slow hue of orange and red as the sun seemingly began an early ascent.

“The sun? But it’s the middle of the night,” Twilight did not have long to ponder what could have been the matter. She was quickly overwhelmed by thousands of panicked cries.

“Why is the sun rising so early?!”

“Princess Twilight! What is going on?!”

“Is Canterlot under attack?!”

“You’re Princess Twilight?”

Only the last question was the one to strike her mind. She looked back towards the masked stallion and saw only wide and worried eyes.

“Yes. I am… I’m sorry, I have to go.”

She did not allow the slack jawed stallion time to respond, only watch her leave and jump onto the stage, taking the mic in hoof, “Citizens of Equestria. I beg of you to remain calm. I do not know why the sun is rising, nor do I have any clue what may or may not have happened with the Princesses. However, I will do my best to solve this problem as swiftly as I can. All I ask is for everybody to return to their homes and kingdoms quickly and orderly. Thank you.”

A low murmur rumbled back, but the crowd did as they were told. Twilight released a sigh of relief from the worried feeling in her gut, knowing that an epidemic of stampeding ponies could have been the outcome.

“Good job, Princess,” Applejack pat Twilight on the back as her friends came to meet her, “It seems to me ya handled that situation perfectly.”

“Thanks, AJ. It felt pretty nerve racking making an announcement like that.”

“So, what are you gonna do now?”

“I need to head to Canterlot, see what the issue may be. You girls stay here and try to keep Ponyville normal while I’m gone.”

Rarity was deeply concerned for Twilight, not liking the idea of Twilight by herself with such a huge amount of pressure, “You sure you do not want any help from us, darling?”

“I’ll be fine,” Twilight placed a reassuring hoof on Rarity, “Spike will tag along.”

“I will,” Spike looked up from the ground he collapsed on to catch his breath.

“Yep. We’re going on the first train to Canterlot.”

“If I may, your highness, allow us to come with you. If something is happening to Canterlot, it might help to have some guards watching your back.”

Twilight felt her mind cringe away. She turned to meet the stallion she tried to kiss and his associates standing tall and at the ready. They were prepared to escort her, standing side by side and without their costumes.

“... Flash Sentry,” Twilight was staring at the orange pegasus with unbelieving eyes.

“Yes, your highness,” Flash replied with a straight face, gesturing to his squad, “These are my squad mates. Sloth Sentry and Whinny Sentry.”

Sloth Sentry was a taller stallion than Flash. He was orange like his brother, but a slicked back brown mane flowed down his neck. Flash’s older sister, Whinny, had a brown mane too, one that partially covered one of her navy blue eyes and down her red velvet cheek.

“At your command,” the two saluted simultaneously.

“Uh… I,” Twilight’s speech was stuttering and her emotions were overrunning with immeasurable amounts of feeling. Embarrassment for trying to kiss Flash without knowing it was him, hurt that he seemed unaffected by what had just happened, and anxious that she might have to be stuck with him in an awkward state while heading to Canterlot.

“Come on, Twilight, having a few extra hooves might be helpful,” Rarity said, trying to convince Twilight to not let her inner voice lead her astray.

Having a few guards would be the smarter decision, but of all the guards, Flash Sentry just had to be the only one at her aid. Twilight was reduce to an annoyed groan, “Fine. Guardsponies, I request your aid to escort me to Canterlot Castle.”

“Yes, mam,” all three saluted, standing into an escorting formation, “Whenever you are ready, your highness.”

“Hurry along, Twilight,” Rarity and the others hugged Twilight before her departure, “You mustn’t waste any time with Equestria in danger.”

“Alright, then. I’ll see you girls later,” Twilight levitated the exhausted Spike onto her back, “Let’s go Spike, you can take a nap going up there.”

“Ugh, fine,” Spike grumbled hanging onto the scruff of Twilight’s neck.

Silence. Twilight has had many experiences before accompanied by awkward displeasure, most of them resulted from growing into a social pony when she once was a secluded fortress. Cracking away from her shell and flying free into hooves of her friends was a very difficult task. Time and time again she had faced many obstacles that put her into unbearably anxious states.

Those moments are rainbows and sunshine compared to now.

Silence practically screeched its way into Twilight’s mind with the receptive clatter of the train going across the miles of tracks. Her protection was avoiding any eye contact with each other, Flash more than anypony. Twilight wanted to say words, but, believing she would not be able to speak above the ear piercing noises, she withdrew her tongue.

Twilight decided to distract herself and place her mind from the closed booth they sat in to the task at hoof. Looking up into the sky she saw the Sun and Moon side by side, light and dark splitting the sky. The sight of blurring trees as the train zoomed by sickened her stomach. Chaos and Order overwhelmed her body with their constant war and any hope for harmony seemed dim. The pressure of the worried waters cracked the dam of her mind, ready to burst and drown her in anxiousness.

“Princess Twilight.”

A sharp gasp entered her lungs and her eyes darted to the lifeguard that pulled her from the waters.

“Yes, Flash?”

“We made it to Canterlot,” Flash said, taking note of the train’s decreasing speed, “You, uh… seemed distracted. So I thought I would bring it to your attention.”

She wanted look away again, but something about his calming demeanor cause her to relax and clear her thoughts, “Oh. Thank you.”

Flash did not acknowledge her gratitude, “I’ll be on the platform to see if any immediate dangers are present.”

His attitude almost refilled the worry inside her as she watched him leave, but Whinny controlled its flow and spoke up, “Don’t mind him, Princess Twilight. He isn’t acting himself. He’s normally nicer than this.”

“Yea, our little bro was always the good one,” Sloth added to Whinny’s claims, “Trust me, your highness, he really is a swell guy.”

“I understand,” Twilight said, pushing away her depressing thoughts, “We all have our bad days. I’m just Twilight, by the way. I really prefer ponies to call me by my name and not by formality.”

“Well, we are guards,” Sloth opened the door of the booth and laughed, “Formality and procedure is driven into our heads from day one.”

“But Twilight is a cool name,” Whinny smirked towards Twilight, “I could get use to calling you just Twilight.”

“Thank you,” Twilight laughed a little with them. She turned towards Spike, jabbing lightly into his side.

“W-What? Is it morning already? I thought it was nighttime,” Spike yawned and rubbed his weary eyes.

“No, it’s both,” Twilight put him back onto her back, “Let’s go, we have to find out why.”

“Oh boy,” Spike sarcastically groaned, his already heavy eyelids dropping down into an annoyed glare.

The group found Flash scanning the streets of Canterlot from the station. He gave them a small glance, “It seems everything is ok. The citizens seem to be worried about the sky, though. We better hurry to the castle. I’ll lead the way.”

He walked away from them, heading towards the looming castle on the other side of the city. The others looked at each other and shrugged. They eventually followed him, walking behind just far enough to give him some space.

When they arrived at the castle gates, two uniformed guardsponies greeted them at the entrance.

“Princess Twilight, we are pleased to know you made it here on short notice,” one said, letting them inside the castle, “Time is of the essence, so allow me to explain quickly. Sometime last night, Princess Luna and Princess Celestia went missing. We believe they have been kidnapped, however, we lack any clues to tell us who might have taken them. Your highness, you are the closest able body princess and our guards need orders. What do you suggest we do.”

Twilight felt an unsure gulp slide down her throat. She thought for a moment and took a long deep breath, “Tell the guards to remain on patrol while searching Canterlot for the Princesses as discreetly as possible. We must not invoke panic among the ponies of Equestria.”

“Yes, your highness,” the guards bowed before they departed to carry out their orders.

“Good work, Twilight,” Whinny grinned, “You sounded just like Princess Celestia when we were under her command.”

“Thanks,” Twilight softly chuckled, turning towards Whinny, “Though, I think Celestia would have known what to look for. Hm… In fact. She might have known what is causing this. I must head to Celestia’s chambers, she might have been uncovered something but didn’t have time to act upon it.”

“Come on, we’ll show you where it is,” Sloth said.

Sparring no time, they bolted up the staircases and through the maze of hallways. Sloth only slowed down when they reached a long branch of doors leading into separate rooms. At the end was a much larger door, a sun and moon engraved in the dark oak.

Celestia’s room was fairly large, though it was mostly empty. The walls were barren and the floor was cold without rugs. All that was there was a round mattress that laid in front of a dark fireplace.

“Wow, this is Celestia’s chambers,” a look of apprehension impressed on Twilight as she gazed across her mentor’s room, “I would have figured she’d have… well, more of a personal touch, as my friend Rarity would say.”

“This is the only room she sleeps in and has us guard,” Whinny replied.

Twilight walked towards the mattress and looked over the scene. Twilight glanced down at an open journal with a spilled ink bottle and a dropped quill at its side. Twilight flipped through the pages, trying to find a useful entry.

The other four were standing by the door, waiting for Twilight to finish her investigating. Flash had his hooves crossed, looking down at the tile floor. Whinny took notice, and keeping her sounds quiet, walked over to him.

“Hey, Flash. What’s up?”

“Nothing, Whinny.”

“Flash, you’ve been acting like a jerk today,” Whinny sat down next to him, gesturing for him to do the same, “That’s not you. Something’s up and I plan to help you.”

“I don’t want to talk about it, Whinny” Flash refused to turn to her, “It’s personal.”

“I’m your older sister,” Whinny brought him closer into a side hug, one which he responded with an annoyed glare, “Your personal biz is my personal biz.”

Flash’s glare did not hold for long. Whinny’s caring embrace persuaded him to smile, only a little.

“I appreciate it, I really do, but now is not the time for me to talk about it,” Flash did give Whinny a hug back, “Thanks for trying to cheer me up, but I got somethings in my head I have to sort out on my own.”

“Alright, you got your own deal,” Whinny chuckled, ruffling his mane a little, “Whenever you want to talk, you got me, lil bro.”

Flash laughed softly, straightening his mane back into place, “Thanks.”

“Hey everypony, I think I discovered something,” Twilight raised the book to her face, “Princess Celestia wrote this a couple of weeks ago: ‘I believe I felt a weakening in the Elements of Harmony. After bringing Twilight to her ascension, a shift in magical energy resonated from Ponyville.’”

“The Elements of Harmony are weakening,” Sloth gaped as the others walked in with him, “But they are our greatest means of defense!”

“That’s not all. She wrote this entry a few days ago: ‘I’ve come to realize the magical shift has been occurring for quite some time, but only now is it noticeable. I’ve been meditating to clear my mind, trying to relive my days and see if I can figure out what might be the cause’,” Twilight flipped the page, “This was the day after: ‘I believe I know what might be the source of all this mayhem. I am not completely sure, but if I am correct, I believe Ponyville will be the first to fall victim to the chaos soon to follow.’”

“So, what was it,” Spike asked, climbing back onto Twilight’s back.

“I don’t know,” Twilight sighed, flipping the pages to blank parchment to prove her point, “That was all she wrote.”

“What?! There’s got to be more!”

“Nothing. She must have been kidnapped before she figured it out,” Twilight gently set the book down, looking nervously back at Spike, “But she thinks Ponyville is in danger. If we don’t hurry, something horrible could happen.”

“That’s not going to happen,” Flash walked up to Twilight, not with a cold shoulder, but with a warm smile, shocking her from her anxiety, “We just got to keep our minds off of our worries and we’ll got back to Ponyville in a snap.”

“You’re right,” Twilight smiled a bit, feeling more secure from Flash’s words, “Thank you, I needed somepony to keep me focus.”

“You’re welcome. Sorry I was rude to you earlier, Twilight. It was wrong of me not to acknowledge your sincerity.”

“Oh, I understand,” Twilight nodded gently, “Sometimes we just need our space, though I am accepting of your apology.”

“Thank you,” Flash held out his hoof for her, “Shall I escort you back?”

Twilight blushed and was flattered by his kind gesture, “Well, I see no harm in a little protection.”

Taking his hoof, Twilight let Flash lead her out of the dark room, not noticing the small dragon jumping off her back in disgust.

“Nope. I am not dealing with that,” Spike grumbled.

Sloth and Whinny laughed, Whinny walking up to Spike, “Need a lift, little buddy?”

“Well, if you don’t mind me taking a snooze,” Spike chuckled, climbing up onto Whinny’s back.

“No problem, Spike. I’ll try to keep my movements slow,” Whinny mused and beckoned for Sloth to follow, “Alright, let’s go before those two lovebirds forget about us.”

“Right behind ya, little sis,” Sloth nodded, closing the door and trotting behind the group.

(To Be Continued…)

Chapter 4-A Thorny Situation

The ride back to Ponyville went much smoother than from. With Flash on her side, Twilight felt much more at ease with her worries. They rode back in silence, but the sounds remained soft and pleasant instead of the screeching they were before. The outside scenery was no longer sickening. The trees and fields modeling in the perfect mix of night and day. Twilight stared at the waving plants as they passed by. Towering trees, growing grass, and vicious vines…

“What,” Twilight suddenly jumped to the booth’s window.

“What’s wrong, Twilight,” Flash asked, looking over her shoulder.

“Those plants… I’ve never seen anything like them before,” Twilight watched closely as an invasion of dark, spiky vines weeded their way into the fields.

“Whoa,” Spike gaped at the infesting intruders which seemed to sap the life from the plants nearby. Wilting and converting them into more nature of darkness. Spike glanced up into the sky and saw slow moving clouds gathering together to create a giant dark cloud of thorns, “Uh, that’s some pretty strange weather.”

“This must be the result of whatever magical imbalance Princess Celestia spoke of,” Twilight sat back down into her seat, looking over to Flash worriedly, “And I don’t like the looks of it.”

“I admit, it is a little unnerving,” Flash said, smiling towards Twilight, “But we can fix it. All we need to do is remain calm and focus.”

“Right,” Whinny said, leaning back into her seat, “Us guards never give up. You can count on that, Twilight.”

“Call it brave,” Sloth chuckled, “ Or stupidity. Either way, we are pretty stubborn.”

“Some more than others,” Whinny snickered at Sloth when he turned to her with an irritated glance.

The others could not help but titter at the two. It help liven up the booth again up until the train pulled into the station. Departing onto the platform, the group was dumbfounded by the capture of Ponyville. The streets were filled with the evil vegetation. Some were assaulting the ponies while others were overrunning buildings.

“Twilight! Look,” Spike pointed towards Ponyville’s town hall where an exhausted Rainbow Dash was trying her best to keep self moving clouds off of the building.

“Spike, head back to library and try to lay low,” Twilight said. The dragon nodded and scampered off, heading to the library without detection. The other headed for town hall.

When they arrived, Twilight’s best friends were attempting to stop the invasion anyway they could. Cutting, blasting, and pulling with their best effort only to unsuccessfully weed the vines.

“What’s going on,” Twilight shouted over the sounds of tired grunts and heavy breathing.

“We don’t know,” Applejack replied, trying to stomp at a small vine growing towards her, “These plants just started growing out of the Everfree Forest and spreading into Ponyville. Ah!”

Applejack was lifted by her hooves and into the air as the vine wrapped around her legs. Twilight aimed at the neck of the creature, forcing it to let go with a quick beam.

“I just started seeing them,” Fluttershy peeped and scuttled away from the crawling plants, “My animals all ran away in fear the moment they appeared.”

“We’ve been trying to hold them off until everypony found a safe place,” Rainbow panted, landing onto the ground and wiping her brow, “But they refuse to stop. They’ll cover half of Equestria by tomorrow if this continues.”

“It’s like magic or something,” Pinkie chortled, the only one still smiling as she zoomed by on a unicycle, “Look!”

She ran over one, slicing the arm off of the vine. The arm wilted and withered away, but the remaining stub grew a new one just as quick as it lost it.

“Stop that! You meanie,” Pinkie growled, running back and forward over it multiple times only for the same outcome, “STOP!”

The vine grew annoyed and scrunched back. It caught Pinkie as the unicycle rolled off without her, she chuckled nervously as she looked down at her captor, “Uh… I mean, you’re not a meanie, Mr. Plant Vine Thing. This is… f-fun?”

The vine was not amused, tossing her across the road and into a pile of trash bags. Pinkie grumbled and climbed her way out of it, raising her hoof in a discombobulating manner, “It’s alright, Pinkie! Everyok is pony!”

She slumped back down, face first into the ground. Rarity came over, raising Pinkie back to her hooves.

“Twilight, we will not be able to keep these things off any longer. It’s lucky we were able to keep them back long enough for an evacuation, but they won’t stop,” Rarity said, helping Pinkie find the correct way to the group, walking around the Sentry siblings as they continue to defend in the others’ place, “Please tell us you know what is going on.”

Twilight’s dejected look was not the answer Rarity was hoping for. Twilight turned to the Sentrys, “You three can stop. Everypony is out of the town hall.”

“If you say so,” Whinny said, following her brothers into the air and just out of reach of the vines. The group watched as the vines slithered their way up the town hall, encasing it in a corrupted grip.

After a moment, Twilight’s friends looked to her, Applejack speaking first, “So what now, Twilight?”

“We have to find the source of this problem. If it started from the Everfree, there might be somepony we know who can help.”

“Oh! Oh Oh! Zecora,” Pinkie was jumping up and down and shouting out an answer.

“Exactly.”

“No! There she is, pulling the cart.”

The group looked to where Pinkie was facing and saw a striped zebra hauling an assortment of powders and brews. Rushing to her aid, the girls helped Zecora move her belongings into a safer area away from all the mayhem.

“Thank you, friends, for the assistance,” Zecora felt her body relax as she slumped down to rest on the side of the wooden cart, “The weight was wearing down my resistance.”

“We’re just glad you are ok, Zecora,” Applejack said, “With these things coming out of the forest, we thought you might have gotten attacked.”

“You are not wrong, Applejack. Everfree is on a dangerous track. But I am not ignorant of what made this world so wrong. If you seek answers, I might have clues to why it is dusk and dawn.”

“Clues? Are they Blue’s?! Did yous steal them,” Pinkie brought out a magnifying glass from her mane staring down at her with a huge eye.

“No, Pinkie, she means she might have an idea on how to figure out what is going on,” Rarity chuckled, pulling PInkie away from Zecora.

“But you are right, my pink friend, my clue is in fact blue,” Zecora reached up and pulled out a glass flask, “If you are willing to accept it, I have an unfinished brew.”

“An unfinished brew,” Twilight levitated the flask in front of her, watching the blue potion swirl around inside, “How do we use it?”

“In order to complete it, two tasks are must be done. First, I need a flower called Fluttering Fun.”

“We have to go flower picking,” Rainbow groaned, slamming her face into her hoof, “Where do we even find these things, I’ve never heard of them.”

“I have,” Twilight said, setting the potion down into the cart, “They had it in abundance in the Castle of the Two Sisters. I wanted to learn all about the Castle before I went there. We might find a few growing inside.”

“The Castle of the Two Sister,” Sloth’s voice was trembling when he spoke, “But… that’s where it lives.”

“That’s just a foal’s tale, Sloth, to keep young ones from going there,” Flash said.

“You wouldn’t happen to be talking about the Pony of Shadows, would you,” Twilight asked.

“He is,” Flash said, smiling to Twilight, “But I’ve visited the Castle a million times myself. Trust me, the only thing you might have to worry about is a spider bite.”

“Or the occasional vine monster,” Pinkie added, zooming around the two on her unicycle.

“That too, I suppose,” Flash chuckled when he watched the hyper pony wheel off.

“Well, then we better head over there and find this flower quickly before Equestria gets overrun with weeds,” Rainbow said, flying into the air, “Lets go. I’ll scout ahead.”

“Sounds like a plan to me,” Applejack said, following the multi-color tail.

“Good luck, brave ones, and fix what’s wrong,” Zecora waved farewell as they went on their journey, “I hope to see you before long.”

The group nodded, waving back and starting their journey in hopes of saving Equestria and the Princesses from this chaos to bring harmony back, once again.

(To Be Continued…)

Chapter 5-Slow Feelings

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