Champions Of Canterlot

Sleeping soundly for about an hour or two, though he was unsure, Inferno laid in his old bed, resting peacefully and comfortably, more so than he did in a long time.

But soon his peaceful slumber came to an end as the young man slowly opened his eyes. Groaning and sitting up from his bed, Inferno rubbed his eyes as he blinked profusely while trying to open them.

And soon enough, Inferno’s eyes finally opened as he glanced at his surroundings. His eyes widened as he saw that he was in his old bedroom, which made him realize… he was back home; one of the places he hadn’t seen, or been back to, for a long time.

“Wha-What… Am I… Doing back here?” He said in confusion and shock.

He immediately gets up from his bed and he also notices that his jacket, scarf, hat, boots, and his backpack were removed from him. He looks around for them and sees that backpack was set down beside a basket, where the rest of his clothing were stuffed into.

Wanting to know what's going on, Inferno climbed out of bed and approached his bedroom door. He opens it up and heads down the hallway to the staircase. He glances at the family portraits on the walls as he goes down the stairs. And as he makes his way down to the family room, Inferno observes the place, seeing how everything remained the same when he left.

‘I guess nothing ever changes.’ He thought in his mind.

While checking his family portraits, Magnus comes walking up the stairs and notices his son out of bed. "Inferno!" Magnus exclaimed.

Upon hearing his father’s voice, Inferno faces towards Magnus with a blank expression on his face, while a slight unnoticeable grin forms on his face.

“Hey… father.” Inferno responded.

"Aw, son," Magnus then ran over and hugged his son. "Fleur! Bristle! He's awake!" he called out.

Footsteps were heard approaching the two and sure enough, Fleur and Bristle Wing came over and rushed towards Inferno and Magnus, surrounding the former in a group hug.

Inferno couldn’t exactly feel anything at the moment; however, something inside of him immediately rose to the surface. He didn’t realize that tears fell from his eyes before the pressure and build up inside him exploded.

And soon, Inferno completely broke down and cried.

"There, there, honey. Just let it all out." Fleur said, stroking his hair and smothering him with so much love.

"Master Inferno, your parents and I have missed you since the day you left. You were most fortunate to have been found by your father on the highway," Bristle said.

"He's right, you know. Even when the police called off their search last year, we never lost hope. And now, after all that waiting, I can finally tell you at long last… welcome home, son," Magnus said while his son kept weeping.

As Inferno was fully reunited with his family and released all his emotions at once; meanwhile, Sunset was strolling through town after her little afternoon time at the park, likely heading towards home.

As she was walking along the sidewalk, her eyes wandered and observed her surroundings until she soon spotted one restaurant establishment that was all too familiar to her.

The Sweet Snacks Cafe.

A place where she and her friends would go to hang out after school, where she had her first date, and where she and one of her friends had a double-date, where they celebrated Twilight getting accepted into college.

It feels like only yesterday, she and her friends were living those good times. Now… it's all just a lingering memory, too painful to think about. She then pulls something out of her shirt; a necklace with a locket on it. She opens it up, revealing her boyfriend, all decked out in his boxing trunks and gloves, looking all handsome, confident and determined to face the world. It was one of her only links to Inferno and the few precious moments she was ever truly happy.

He had gotten that locket necklace for her a few years ago as a birthday present. She held the locket close to her heart and then put it away as she kept on walking home.

She had her head down as she was walking, which led her not seeing the person in front of her and she eventually bumps into them. Sunset and the person in front of her fell back and crashed onto the ground.

The two were heard groaning in minor pain as Sunset rubbed her head in pain, just as she heard a soft timid voice speak.

“S-Sorry about that.” Sunset’s eyes widened as she heard that timid voice, a very familiar voice she hadn't heard in a long time as well.

The bacon-haired girl looked up towards the person she bumped into and she gasped at another familiar face she never thought she would see.

“F-Fluttershy?” Sunset spoke.

"Sunset?" Fluttershy responded. "Oh my, I'm so sorry, I didn't see you there." The animal lover apologized timidly, as she was always known for.

Sunset didn’t really care for an apology, her eyes soon grew watery as she was soon overcome with joy. She had reunited with another one of her friends today. As Fluttershy continued to apologize, she soon yelped in surprise when Sunset lunged at her and hugged her tightly.

“I MISSED YOU SO MUCH!” Sunset cried as she held onto Fluttershy.

"Oh my, umm… I… missed you too, Sunset. Umm… there, there," Fluttershy said, hugging her back and patting her on the head. Though, Fluttershy seemed a little confused by Sunset's actions and why she's acting like this. "Are you, umm… going to be okay, Sunset?" she asked.

Sunset sniffed and wiped away her tears as she looked at Fluttershy with a bright smile. “Y-Yeah I am, Fluttershy. I-I’m just happy.” She replied. “It's been so long.”

"O…Oh, I see." Fluttershy said in realization. "I guess you're right, we haven't all been together in so long. Maybe one of these days, if you'd like, we can arrange to meet up at our usual spot just like before… i-if that's okay." she suggests.

"You know… I think I'd like that very much." Sunset said.

"Okay then. Anyways, my sweetheart just finished his match yesterday and I'm about to head on over to his place to check up on him. The poor dear was all banged up, even though he won his match." Fluttershy said.

“Oh… Ok… So, uh, how is Israel doing these past two years?” Sunset asked.

Fluttershy's eyes then looked down towards the ground as she let out a sigh. "Well… he's doing fine as a boxer, but… ever since Inferno disappeared, he hasn't shown his goofy side lately. He used to be so lively and talkative and friendly. Now, it's like all the fun was drained out of him. Even when he's out in public, he hardly shows any emotion. That's why I pay frequent visits to his place. I'm trying to bring back his old self again." she explained.

Sunset also looks down after hearing all of that. “Oh…” That was all she could respond with. She understands what Israel is going through, quite frankly that's probably what some parts of the town are going through at the moment. "I guess he misses him, too."

"Who doesn't miss Inferno? He was Israel's bestest friend. He's probably one of the reasons why he'd be so goofy and mischievous all the time. If only Inferno were here today, wherever he may be, things would slowly go back to normal." Fluttershy said.

“Yeah… maybe it would,” Sunset replied with slight sorrow in her tone.

The two stood there silently as their warm reunion had now turned sorrowful and bloomy. The moment of silence lingered for a while before Fluttershy clears her throat to speak again.

"Anyways, I'll be sure to text the other girls about arranging a little get-together at our usual spot, just to catch up on old times. Okay?" Fluttershy asked.

"Yeah… thanks, Fluttershy. And… tell Israel and his family I said "hi." Sunset replied.

"I will, thanks." Fluttershy and Sunset then quickly shared another warm hug before the sweet butterfly girl let go and ran off towards her boyfriend's house. Sunset then continued down the path towards her own house, feeling a little bit better.

After having bumped into and catching up with one of her friends, Fluttershy was feeling a little brightened up as well. Though she didn’t take time to stop and think about it as she rushed all the way across town and soon she would arrive at Israel’s home.

She stops to take deep breaths after all the running she did. It's surprising how she manages to run a long way and not get overly exhausted along the way. Guess she has Rainbow to thank for introducing her to the Canterlot Gym.

As soon as she recovers, Fluttershy straightens herself and then walks up to the front door. Standing at the door, Fluttershy presses the doorbell and waits patiently.

Moments later, Christina comes to the door and opens it up. "Oh, Fluttershy, nice to see you again, come in." she said, letting her in.

"Thanks, Ms. Yabuki." Fluttershy replied, stepping in. Christina then closed the door and locked it up. "Is your son still up in his room?"

"Yeah, he's watching some movies. I was just about to go and grab some burgers when you showed up. Would you like me to get you anything while I'm gone?" Christina asked.

“Oh no thanks, Ms.Yabuki, I’m good.” Fluttershy replied.

"Alright then. Just make yourself at home and I'll be right back," Christina said. She then went and grabbed her jacket and car keys before leaving the house. She climbed into her car and drove off to pick up some dinner.

Fluttershy waved goodbye to the mother of her boyfriend as she closed the front door, and finally; it was only her and Israel in the house, alone.

So, the sweet and "innocent" butterfly princess made her way upstairs to her boyfriend's bedroom and knocked on his door.

"Come in," he called out in a monotone voice. Fluttershy opened the door and spotted her sweet goofball sitting on his bed, looking as straight-faced as usual. He turns to the doorway, spotting his cute girlfriend. One look into her big, teal-green eyes and his heart skipped a beat and a small smile formed on his face. "Hi, Flutters." he simply said.

Fluttershy simply giggles and waved at her boyfriend. “Hey, Izzy.” She spoke without any timidness or shyness in her voice. Towards everyone, she’s her cute, shy self; but when she’s with Israel, her personality quickly changes. You can say Israel helps release her inner confidence.

Like the time, he jokingly encouraged her to go goth-girl for a whole weekend. And surprisingly for everyone, she did just that.

"Nice to see my favorite girl again. Life treating you well?" he asked.

“Oh, it's been good. I bumped into Sunset on the way here. She said hi, by the way.” Fluttershy responded.

"I see. Tell her I said "hi" back when you get the chance. Also… how are the other girls doing these days?" he asked.

“Well, Twilight’s still studying in college, Applejack is likely still visiting family down in Appleloosa, Rarity is working on her new fashion like in Manehatten City, Pinkie is also visiting family out of town, Rainbow Dash is still working at sports store downtown; she’s saving up to buy her very own gym,” Fluttershy chuckled after that last part.

"Ambitious. I hope she succeeds." Israel nods.

"I'm sure she will. But let's focus more on you. Mainly… those bruises on your face. Do you ever keep your guard up in that ring? I'm starting to wonder if you're using your own face as a punching bag or a catcher's mitt." Fluttershy lectures.

"I did try, but his flicker jabs were sharp," Israel said.

"Uh… flicker jabs?" Fluttershy asks.

"Here, I'll show you. It's easier that way." he said, standing up. He moves a distance away and then… he takes up some kind of weird stance that was different from his usual one. His right fist close to his face, but his left fist lowered towards his waist, like he's forming a backwards "L" and swishes his arm left and right. Finally, his left fist launches and he somehow hits the wall on the other side of his room. It was impossible, seeing how his arms reach wasn't THAT far. Yet somehow, his arm moved in such a way, like he extended it.

He does it again… and again… and again. He throws his fist in a… flickering motion.

"Now I get it! Those are what the flicker jabs are. Is that why he was able to hit you so much?" she asked.

"Yes… and I wasn't holding back." Israel said before he sat back down on his bed.

“You… weren’t?” Fluttershy asked in slight shock.

There have been times where she had seen her boyfriend go all out, and in Rarity’s saying, it wasn’t very graceful, and usually her boyfriend would be unscathed while the other person was… well, she couldn’t say. Which is why she was surprised to know that her boyfriend wasn’t pulling back his punches, and yet his opponent was able to land serious blows on him.

"I guess he wasn't like that one guy you fought who had a large fan club," Fluttershy said.

"That was over two years ago when I was barely making a name for myself as a pro. And I believe that was my… 4th match?" Israel guessed.

"And you didn't even allow him to hit you and you utterly humiliated him with that final knockout punch to the face." Fluttershy pointed out. “And… that's… well… when we, umm…"

"Fucked like rabbits?" he asked.

"Mhmm," she nods sweetly with a squee and cute smile. Just then, she feels him pull her in for a long smooch, making her yelp in surprise, but quickly kisses him back.

"That's for making those cute sounds." Israel whispered.

Fluttershy giggles while also blushing. “You, goofball.” She whispered back.

"Am I?" he asked teasingly, nuzzling her nose to nose. Fluttershy felt happy to know that at least her efforts are somewhat bringing him back.

Fluttershy then surprises Israel with another kiss on the lips, this time with deep passion and arousal. Israel is surprised by her behavior, but didn’t mind at all.

Then the two get under the blankets and they spend their alone time in their personal promise land.

Meanwhile, as two lovebirds are makin’ love, Eternal was now sitting at the dining table, enjoying a nice, family dinner after taking a nice, warm, thorough shower.

At the table were his whole family, his father, his mother; Celestia, and his brother; Heat Blitz. The family were having a peaceful dinner, they were silent for a moment, before they eventually started a family conversation about their day and routine.

"So, honey, how was work today?" Celestia asked.

"Pretty much the same, except I had to fire one of my employees. I caught him trying to sneak out a stack of 10 grand out of our company's main vault. Now, I need to hire a new security guard because of that." Blaze Burn said.

"Sorry to hear that." Celestia said.

"It's no worries. How about you, dear?" Blaze asked.

"The usual CHS has been kind of… uneventful and less lively ever since the girls graduated high school. At this point, I might just have to quit being principal and find some other job." Celestia exclaimed.

"And what does that make your sons? Chopped liver?" Heat asked teasingly with a grin. "Were we not lively enough?"

“Oh don’t be jealous, sweety. Of course I can’t forget my two boys.” Celestia responded while she had her hand petting her son’s head.

"Speaking of which, how was your day so far, Heat?" Blaze asked.

"Just prepping for the exams. I've also got a practice session. If I pass, I might get my degree a year early." Heat said excitedly.

"That's great, sweetie. Keep up the good work. And Eternal, I trust your weight control went well for your match tomorrow?" Celestia asked.

"Yeah. Hours of sparring, running with a tire tied to my waist, relying on scraps for food, I managed to make the weigh-in on my 1st try. Although… I wish there was a breath check test, because my foe definitely failed in that department." Eternal mentioned.

Heat laughed a bit after hearing that joke again. So did he and Eternal’s father, who laughed hysterically. Celestia, on the other hand, tried to keep her composure, but she let out a heartedly chuckle.

Blaze takes a deep breath after laughing so hard and lets out a sigh. “That’s a good one, son.” he commented. "And what about this guy you're fighting? What's his record like?"

"It's… pretty average. More wins than losses, but only half of his wins are by K.O. He's seriously lacking in the power department." Eternal said before sipping his cup of water.

"You won't be saying that when you have to face your next opponent AFTER this one." Heat pointed out, which made Eternal stop sipping his water.

"What do you mean, Heat?" Celestia asked.

"Well… if he beats this next chump, he's gonna have to face… *gulp*...well… remember our old funny, autistic friend?" Heat asked.

“Israel? What does he have to do with… Oh,” Celestia soon realizes what Heat meant, and upon doing so, she turns towards Eternal with a shocked expression. “Sweety, don’t tell me that you and your friend are going to be fighting each other?!” She asked.

"It's true… I didn't want it to come to this, but neither him nor I have a choice. But Israel and I have already talked about it a week ago." Eternal said. "In fact… he was the one who talked me out of quitting."

"Wait… your friend wants you to fight him?" Blaze asked.

"Yes. He told me in his own words, "Don't think of me as your friend in the ring and moreso your opponent and don't even try to pull your punches… 'cause I'll know. But also know this; no matter the outcome, we'll always be best buds." Eternal explained.

"I had no idea. Well… I don't approve of this, but if he trusts you, then… Please try not to cripple him, honey." Celestia said.

"I'll make sure he's still alive and breathing," Eternal said. "But just remember, he's a tough cookie to crack. He's got some serious punching power."

“I just hope this doesn’t affect your friendship. He’s already going through a rough time since… Inferno left…” Celestia was a little hesitant to mention the young man. Since he too was a friend of her sons.

"I know. Luckily, he's got his family and Fluttershy to help get him through his tough times. Fluttershy pays him visits 3 to 4 times a week." Eternal pointed out.

“Really? My money was on 3 to 4 times a day?” Heat claimed.

“Hey, don’t sweat it, Bro. It can be both.” Eternal replied.

"Hmmm, sounds like the boy is doing well for himself if his sweetheart is visiting him that frequently… if you know what I mean," Blaze winked.

Celestia gave her husband a light smack on the back of his head in response to his comment.

"What? You know I'm right, honey. You and I had our own wild adventures, too," Blaze pointed out, bringing up his and Tia's sex life, making her blush deeply.

“Sh-Shut up, Honey! And don’t bring up our personal time in front of our sons ever! Or otherwise…” She leaned into her husband’s ear and whispered. “... Or otherwise, Daybreaker will have to cancel tonight’s performance.” she silently stated.

"Oh alright, dear. So sorry," Blaze said before booping his wife's nose.

Celestia pouted and blushed from having her nose booped, while still trying to keep a strict face “When will you ever take my strict side seriously?” she asked.

"When you find the off-switch for that cuteness of yours," Blaze chuckled in retort.

"Yeah, that's… next to impossible. That's like telling Fluttershy to stop being cute when she has NO off-switch," Heat pointed out.

"I take her strict side seriously," Eternal said, "...Sometimes." he finishes before sipping into his cup of water some more.

And so, later on, after dinner finished, everyone helped clean the table and the boys helped with the dishes. After finishing, Eternal decided to head to bed early so he'd be prepared for his boxing match tomorrow. Heat also went to bed early to be prepared for his exams. Their parents stayed up a little longer with Tia going to take a shower while Blaze Burn waited for his turn.

But… let's just hope the boys remember to go to sleep with ear plugs, as they know how loud their parents can be when making love.

The next day; an hour before the Eternal Flames vs Adrenaline Rush fight.

Eternal and his boxing coach, along with his manager, are in the waiting room inside the Canterlot Dome, waitin patiently for his turn. Eternal decided to throw in some punches, slicing the air, just to get rid of the little tension he had inside of him.

Suddenly, there's a knock at the door. Eternal stops shadow boxing and looks over as his coach opens the door. He spots his own family coming in and he relaxes.

"Hi, sweetie. Just thought we'd stop by and wish you best of luck." Celestia said.

"Not that you'll need it since your opponent looks like a total dupe with that silly grin." Blaze chuckled a bit, making Eternal chuckle as well.

"Thanks, I needed that, dad." Eternal said.

"By the way, we bumped into Israel and his family earlier. We'll be sure to tell him you said "hi." Heat said.

"Thanks. And you guys sit back, relax and enjoy the show." Eternal nodded.

So, his family exchanged their best wishes to him and hugged him before leaving the waiting room with his coach and manager.

"You've got a hell of a family there, kid." Thunder said.

"Sure do, chief," Eternal nodded.

Meanwhile, over in the middle section of the stadium, Israel and his family were sitting there, waiting for the match to begin and the arena was filling up with spectators.

"The final match for the Light Heavyweight division will begin in a few short minutes." the announcer reminded the audience over the mic.

As the audience was waiting patiently for the event to start, Israel and his family were left to converse with one another as they waited.

Ms.Yabuki turned to Israel as she silently asked him: “Sweetie, why haven’t you invited your girlfriend with us?” She asked.

“I have, though Fluttershy said she would think about it. I highly doubt she would come to the event.” Israel tells her mother.

“Think again, little brother.” Dark informs Israel as he points over to the stairs in the stands.

Israel turns towards the direction his brother is pointing, where he sees Fluttershy walking up to them before she finally spots Israel and his family and gives them a smile and waving her hand.

"Speak of the angel," Israel said, smiling and going over to escort Fluttershy over to her seat next to him. They both sit down, still holding each other's hand.

Ms. Yabuki then turns toward Dark and whispers to him. “What about you, sweetie? Do you have anyone to bring to the event?” She asked.

“Nah, she and her brother are a little tied up at the moment, 'cause running a camp is a lot to handle.” Dark responded to her mother’s question.

"Oh, I can understand that. Responsibilities are never easy to work around," Christina said.

"Don't I know it. Man, I cannot wait to see how Eternal "Hell" Flames puts his next victim out of their misery," Dark said.

"Yeah… I'm curious too," Israel said.

And soon… the time goes by and soon, the crowd roars in applause as the fighters come out one by one. Eternal comes out first and nearly the whole city is cheering for him. He doesn't pay them any mind though, keeping his mind focused on the ring. He climbs up the steps and leaps over the ropes, entering the ring with style.

Next, his opponent walks in, shadow boxing with that same stupid grin. He receives some applause from the people in the arena and then climbs up the steps and enters the ring.

After boxers entered the ring, the announcer stepped into the center of the ring and reached up to the mic and started to announce the fighters and get this event underway.

"Ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to the Canterlot Dome! For tonight's main event, 10 rounds of Light Heavyweight boxing! From the red corner, from the Thunder Drum Boxing Gym, weighing at 173 pounds, the fiery fist of fury himself, Eternal "Hell" Flames!" the announcer exclaimed, gesturing to the red head, who received thunderous applause. "And in the blue corner, weighing in at 173.5 pounds, from the Dusk Purge Boxing Club, the quick feet fighter, Adrenaline Rush!" he exclaims and gestures to the other boxer, who also receives applause.

"Both fighters to the center of the ring!" the announcer said. Both boxers did as instructed and stared into each other's souls.

"Alright, boys, listen up. I'm gonna be watching for low blows and rabbit punches, no headbutting or biting either. In case of a knockdown you head to a neutral corner and wait there until I say so. Is that understood?" the referee asked. Both nodded. "Any questions?" he got none. "Alright boys back to your corners."

They both retreat to their corners and the announcer makes one more… memorable… line. "And now, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls… LLLLLET'S GET READY TO RUMBLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLE!!!"

The crowd cheered louder than ever as the fight was now about to begin. Both fighters were ready and waiting for the bell. They both hopped and shook their arms, hyped up and ready to get this started.

And then the moment finally came… *DING* *DING* *DING*... As the bell rang, and the match began. Both fighters gathered once again in the middle of the ring.

Eternal keeps a mid-range distance with his guard up and his feet hopping.

Adrenaline could tell Eternal was planning on fighting by the book. But he wasn't afraid.

"He's moving about in a simple orthodox upright style and judging by the way he's keeping his weight on his rear foot, it's obvious Eternal's going for a counter." Israel said.

Adrenaline then goes for a left-right jab combo, or a one-two as they call it, but Eternal side steps out of the way just in time. Adrenaline goes for another attack. He throws two jabs, but Eternal sways side to side, then counters with a left of his own, landing it smack on Adrenaline's face, making him flinch.

'That's a hell of a left he's got. But I'll bet… that this kind of boxing…' Adrenaline paused and then rushed in. '...isn't in the book!' He then leans into Eternal and lands a body blow on him, then swings two hooks at him, but both of those are blocked.

"What the hell's going on here?" Dark asked.

“Um, I’m kinda new to this whole… fighting thing… so I don’t know.” Fluttershy lets everyone know.

“I have suspicions that my son is toying with him,” Blaze Burn proclaimed.

“Are you sure about that, honey?” Celestia asked.

“It's a father’s instinct, I know he’s toying with the poor bastard.” Blaze stated.

The fight keeps going and Adrenaline throws a barrage at Eternal until he shifts his weight to his front leg, which could only mean…

'No way… he's gonna in-fight?' Adrenaline asks in thought. 'That's fine by me, close-range combat is where I rule!'

And soon, Eternal throws a right, as does Rush. It's a dual exchange and both punches hit homes right in their faces. They slug it out and the audience is going crazy. However, Israel can tell that Eternal's taking less damage by using the shoulder block technique.

Adrenaline goes in for an uppercut, it only grazes him. Eternal returns with a sharp right hook.

'I'm pushing him hard! How come he can hit me so easily?!' he asked.

'What a joke. To think I have to get past you to face my buddy. What a waste of time,' Eternal thought to himself.

The look in Eternal's eyes would make anyone think he was possessed. Adrenaline had no choice but to guard, hopefully Eternal would tire out. But Eternal wasn't slowing down. In fact, he was speeding up and his power was growing stronger. So much so that he was landing punches in the tiniest gap in his guard.

And then…

*POW!*

Eternal lands a brutal uppercut on Adrenaline's jaw. He limps forward, but Eternal doesn't give him a chance to fall. He delivers an onslaught of punches to his standing unconscious foe. Adrenaline is too dazed to stop him. And for the finisher, he delivers a corkscrew punch, which ultimately causes blood to spew out of the guy's mouth, knocking his mouth piece out of his mouth before the ref steps in just as Adrenaline falls to the mat.

Eternal backs away to a corner, but the ref quickly waves his arms, signaling the end of the match before Eternal reaches the corner. He wins by 1st round knockout.

The crowd loudly cheers and applauds louder, as did both Eternal and Israel’s family, as Eternal had emerged triumphant.

"I doubt he's gonna show his face in the ring ever again. With that corkscrew punch to the jaw, along with all those blows to the face, he's gonna need some serious surgery to recover." Israel said with a straight face.

“Surgery? The dude’s gonna need a prayer and a telethon.” Dark commented.

Israel would have a reply to add on to that, but is stopped when he felt his shirt being tugged on by Fluttershy.

"What's up, babe?" Israel asked.

“Um, Israel, after this, do you wanna come by the Sweet Snack Cafe with me? I was gonna meet up there with the rest of the girls; it's gonna be our big reunion after 2 years. And I was hoping you would come by and meet them again.” Fluttershy asked.

"Hmm… sure. I don't mind." Israel shrugged.

"*gasp* yay!" Fluttershy said, pushing his buttons, yet again. And he pulls her in for another smooch and boops her on the nose.

"Must you always be so cute?" he asked, smiling.

"Mmmm, yes," Fluttershy squees, now earning another smooch.

The two kissed lovingly as they blocked out the ring announcer’s voice echoing across the stadium.

An hour later after Eternal’s fight.

Meanwhile, about an hour after Eternal’s big Light Heavyweight fight, Sunset Shimmer had left her apartment about 5 minutes ago and she was riding her motorcycle along the streets of Canterlot City.

She would later arrive at the one place she hasn’t been back to in a long time; Sweet Snack Cafe. As soon as she parks in the parking space in front of the establishment, Sunset takes off her motorcycle helmet and she takes a big look at the restaurant, as she was reminiscing of the memories she had here.

“Well… I’m back,” She said to herself, softly.

After taking in the scenery, Sunset then gets off her bike and then she slowly, and hesitantly, walks towards the front door of the cafe. She stops and takes a deep breath, preparing herself for what she would see on the inside. And with that, she pushed the door open and walked inside.

"Hello, and welcome to-- oh, Sunset! It's been a while," Mrs. Cake called out.

"Sure has. Uh… I'm gonna be sitting by the big, round table." Sunset said.

"By yourself?" Mrs. Cake asked.

"No, the uh… the girls said they'd be dropping by later on." Sunset said.

"Oh, well alright. Still, it's been so long since I've seen you or your friends stop by here." Mrs. Cake pointed out.

"I know, I miss them a lot." Sunset said as she went to sit down.

“Awww don’t be such a party pooper!” A familiar bubbly voice spoke to her. Then in Sunset’s field of vision, A pink hand presented her a cupcake with pink frosting on it. “Here, have a cupcake!”

"PINKIE!!!" Sunset shouts happily as she turns and hugs her sugar-loving friend. "I'm so glad to see you again!"

Pinkie kept a bubbly personality when she presented Sunset with a cupcake, but the moment Sunset hugged her, she couldn't help but hug her back and cry as well.

“I KNOW!!! It's been so long!” Pinkie responded as she cried up waterfalls. "I'm sorry I haven't been making time to spend time with you or the others."

"It's okay, Pinkie. The important thing is you're here. And if you're here, I'll bet the others on their way here right now, too," Sunset said.

“Well I got here in 10 seconds flat! So you better bet on it, Sunset.” The two heard a familiar voice speak to them, and they instantly recognized the person by the words they had just said. They turned around and there stood their rainbow-haired athlete gal pal.

"Rainbow Dash!" Sunset and Pinkie exclaimed. Both girls pulled their speedy friend in for a group hug.

"And how are you two ladies doing? Anything interesting happened while I was selling and making merch fly off the shelves?" Rainbow asked.

“Oh no, we have nothing interesting to tell to the Rainbow Dash,” Sunset said with playful sarcasm.

"Ahh, I get it, you wanna save the big news for when we're all here. I get it." Rainbow said, catching the hint.

“Nah, it's just that everything has been so dull without you girls.” Sunset replied.

"If that's how you feel, darling, then perhaps it's time we all catch up and make some new good memories, wouldn't you say?" a posh, elegant lady's voice called out.

All three girls turned around and there stood their most elegant friend, Rarity. All dressed and prepped for their big reunion.

“Rarity!” They all exclaimed as they rushed over and pulled her in a group hug.

“You don’t know how long I waited to see you girls again.” Rarity proclaimed as she tried to not cry and ruin her mascara.

“Trust us, Rarity, I think we all have the same feeling.” Rainbow replied.

"Ah couldn't agree more with y'all 'bout that," said another female with a country accent.

"Applejack!!!" the girls exclaimed again. Now AJ is pulled into the group hug. But AJ merely cries on the inside.

"If Ah had known it had been this long since either of us spent any quality time together, Ah'd have asked mah brother to hold down the fort fer me while Ah headed out. Well… better late than never, Ah suppose." AJ said, hugging her friends.

"I believe work has consumed all of us, darling," Rarity added.

“No kidding. Working to save up for my own gym is so time-consuming.” Rainbow commented.

"If you think that's time-consuming, try spending a day in our shoes," said an adorkable voice.

"Especially when you're spending hours studying for exams," added a male voice. The girls all turn and recognize their favorite adorkable couple.

"TWILIGHT! HEAT!" they all exclaimed.

Twilight and Heat chuckled at the girl's excitement, and so they opened their arms up wide, anticipating the incoming group hug they would soon find themselves crushed in between.

And soon they were encased in the group hug, as everyone chuckled and smiled, feeling happier than they ever did in 2 years.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I miss being a part of these big group hugs!" Heat said while getting squished in the group hug.

“I KNEW YOU FINALLY WOULD!” Pinkie screamed with excitement, almost making Heat go deaf.

"Oh my! Everyone's here already? That was fast," said a hushed female voice.

"And in the best of moods." said another male voice.

Everyone turned around and they saw Israel and Fluttershy standing by the front door, likely that they had just entered and saw the group hug going on.

And soon, they would become part of it.

“FLUTTERSHY!!!! ISRAEL!!!” The group shouted as Israel and Fluttershy walked up to the others and soon everyone was hugging and greeting each other after a 2-year gap.

Their group dynamic was almost completed, now all that remained was….

A whistle was heard by all of them as they all turned and saw Eternal standing just outside of the group circle. Who still had some remnants of his fight remaining; and by that, it meant the light bruises that were barely noticeable. They all should have seen the other guy.

“Whoa, look at how beautiful you guys turned out. What the fuck happened to me?” Eternal jokingly said, likey at the expense of his small bruises. But he didn’t care, he was filled with joy seeing all his old friends after so long.

"By the way, congratulations on your win," Fluttershy added.

"Thanks. It wasn't exactly glamorous, I'll give you that." Eternal said. "And trust me, I know ‘glamorous’ when I see it. Or should I say "her." Right, my little diamond girl?" He turns towards the fashionista.

Rarity smiled widely as she no longer kept the elegant and proper act as she ran towards Eternal and jumped onto him while gleefully cheering as she hung onto him by her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck. Eternal held onto her while also chuckling heartedly before meeting her lips with his.

"And I see you're doing well. Not that many bruises on you. I can't wait until we head home so mama can reward you." Rarity said before licking her lips.

"Easy, Rare-bear. We're in public," Eternal said playfully.

“I know, but seeing you put that ruffian in his place makes me so hungry~” She replied back playfully.

“Hey lovebirds. Save the lovey-dovey back home, we have a reunion party to get started.” Rainbow informs the two.

"Yeah, I'm hungry, let's hurry up and order already." Twilight added.

The others agreed and all took their seat at the big round table. For a start, each of the girls ordered drinks. The girls ordered iced mochas while the guys ordered ice water. "It feels nice to be back together again, everybody. So, what have you guys been up to? How's life been treating you all lately?" Sunset asked.

Soon all the girls, besides Fluttershy, all groaned in annoyance and boredom. Which gave Sunset, Fluttershy, and the boys the impression that… life was not very pleasant for each of them.

“Sooooooo booooooorrrring! My job at the sports store has been nothing but lame and quiet. The only time things got heated was when I got into an argument with a customer.” Rainbow exclaimed about her work life.

“Why is that, darling?” Rarity asked.

“Well because the dude’s 6-yr old son decided to get handsy with my ass!” Rainbow said in annoyance. “I shouted at the kid’s face, and his ‘wuss of a father’ took it personally. I argued with him for several minutes until my boss arrived to settle the argument.” She explained

"Really? How?" Pinkie asked.

“I don’t wanna get into it, cause the conversation was boring and pointless.” Rainbow implied.

"You didn't get in trouble, did you?" Fluttershy asked, worried.

"Boss told me, he'd cut my paycheck if it happens again," Rainbow pouted.

“Well did you ask the boy why he did what he did?” Twilight asked.

“Oh yeah I did. The kid apologized after the whole incident settled; he’s a good kid. When I asked him, he said that he mistaken my butt for soccer balls.” Rainbow explained.

Everyone chuckled and lightly laughed when Rainbow said that.

At that moment, Israel got out his cell phone and was about to send a message to his older brother and Fluttershy saw this.

"Uh-oh…" Fluttershy uttered. Immediately she reached out her hand and snatched Israel’s phone out of his hands. “None of that while we’re here, Izzy!” She stated.

"Uh… am Ah missin' somethin'?" AJ asked.

"It's an old habit he hasn't grown out of. Anytime someone does Israel or any of his friends wrong, he alerts his older brother about the situation. You know how that big guy gets around, finding his vics and making them come out and apologize all scared." Heat pointed out.

"Wait, he STILL does that for a living? Doesn't he have a job or something?" Sunset asked.

"He does, but he doesn't get many hours in the day. 6 to 7 hours total." Israel pointed out.

"Look, Israel, I appreciate you trying to do me a solid, but don't waste your time on the guy who's kid groped my ass. The man's a wuss, small time, not worth it. After all, we're all here to celebrate our reunion," Rainbow rationalized.

"My, Rainbow! It looks like all that time going solo has certainly matured you," Rarity said.

"Well, as the old saying goes, we all gotta grow up someday," Rainbow shrugged.

"True, though I'm only saying this just to be honest. I don't approve of the kid's actions, but I wouldn't blame him for grabbing ya considering how you have such an attractive ass." Heat pointed out.

"Ooh, you hear that, Dashie?" Pinkie asked teasingly.

Rainbow didn’t reply as she was blushing in embarrassment and hid her face behind her hands. Twilight softly elbowed her boyfriend for making that comment in front of her and towards one of her friends, Heat had a sheepish expression while putting up his hands in surrender.

"Again… sorry, just… being honest. Twilight, you know, you're always gonna be my girl, I'd never betray you." Heat said, putting his hand on hers.

"Yeah, I know, you little dork," Twilight replied before kissing him on the cheek.

“So what about you, AJ? What have you been up to?” Pinkie asked her farm gal pal.

“Well, it's a funny story there, sugarcube.” AJ said as she discussed what life has been treating her.

Meanwhile, as the girls and the 3 boys were getting acquainted, a black SUV was parked right outside the cafe, and inside the car were Fleur De Lis and Inferno Blaze, with Bristle as their designated driver.

Fleur was dressed in casual wear, as she intended to spend quality time with her son for today. Inferno, on the other hand, had freshened up for the occasion, he got cleaned up and he had on fresh, clean clothes. He wore a gray hoodie to hide his face, since this was the first time out in public; more specifically, in his hometown.

"Thank you for the ride, Bristle. Why don't you go and treat yourself to some lunch while Inferno I spend some quality time together?" Fleur offered.

"Of course, mistress. Enjoy your evening," Bristle replied.

Fleur then turns to her son, Inferno, who continues to stare at the restaurant establishment. He had a lot of good memories here, memories that had haunted him for 2 whole years. And now he was back, and about to take a step back into the place for the first time since he had left Canterlot City.

Fleur could see the turmoil in her son’s eyes and the hesitation they held. She held onto her son’s hand, in an attempt to comfort him and assure him that everything is alright.

“Are you ready, sweetie?” She asked him.

Inferno turned to face her with an anxious expression on his face while trying to put on a smile for his mother, which he failed miserably. And then he turned his attention back towards the cafe as he took in a deep breath and exhaled in nervousness.

“Ready as I'll ever be.” He said with lack of confidence, but held slight determination. He knew he couldn't stay away forever. It was time to face the past head on.

Meanwhile, back inside, the group had continued on conversation, with each of them sharing their stories about what they did for two years, and how it was so boring and plain without any adventure and excitement.

"Sounds to me like all of us haven't done anything fun lately. By the way, AJ, how are your parents doing lately?" Fluttershy asked.

"They're alright. Pa's being bed-ridden 'cause he hurt his leg when he fell off the barn roof. Ma's lookin' after him along with Granny Smith." AJ said.

"The heck was he doing up on the roof?" Heat asked.

"There was a leak, so he had to patch it up. After he finished, he was climbing down, but lost his footing an' rolled down the edge and onto the ground. His leg hit the wooden fence hard, which also helped break his fall." AJ explained.

"Ouch! I hope he's okay." Twilight said.

"He will be." AJ assured.

While they kept conversing, the front door of the restaurant opened up and in walks Fleur and her son, who's keeping his face hidden with his hoodie. Mrs.Cake heard the doorbell ring, signaling her that some new customers had entered the cafe.

"Hello and welcome to-- oh! Fleur, hello there!" Mrs. Cake greeted the celebrity..

"Hello Mrs. Cake. A table for two, if you please," Fleur asked.

"Of course, please have a seat over here," Mrs. Cake gestured to the table next to the big roundtable with the girls.

“Very much appreciated, thank you.” Fleur responded before she and Inferno walked over to the table. Inferno sat down with his back turned towards the roundtable where the girls and the boys were.

He should have known at least one or two of the girls and boys would be here, but all of them!? He knew coming here was a bad idea! And now he has no idea how to get out of this situation.

Fleur notices that her son was now acting jittery and overly anxious at the moment, and when she looked behind him, she instantly knew the reason why. Her son’s old friends, including his girlfriend, were also here at the cafe.

"Honey… eventually, they have to know. They miss you. But don't worry… I'm right here for emotional and moral support," Fleur whispered.

Inferno remained silent, he was too nervous and jittery right now. He doesn't know how his friends and girlfriend have been doing since he was gone. He doesn’t know whether or not they hate him or are ashamed of him for leaving Canterlot. He doesn’t even know how much has changed since he was gone!?

Meanwhile, the group were continuing to have a great time together and finding new found joy in each other’s company. That was until Rarity drew away from the chatter and spotted a certain celebrity model sitting at a table nearby. Immediately she informed the others.

“Girls! GIRLS! Look who’s here!” She gets everyone’s attention and points them towards Fleur’s direction.

"No way! Is that…?!" Twilight asked in shock.

"It is!" Rainbow confirmed.

"Fleur De Lis!" the all exclaimed, minus the goofball.

"Been a while since I saw her…" Israel uttered.

"Hello everyone! How are you all doing?" Fleur asked, after hearing them shouting her name and noticing that they were looking in her direction.

“Uh… We’re…doing good. What are you doing here?” Sunset asked the celebrity.

"I thought I'd go into town and spend some… quality time with a special someone." Fleur said. "Surely, you must've heard of them."

Inferno silently shook his head at his mother, begging her not to reveal him to the group. But now her comment had piqued their curiosity.

"Special someone? As in… someone other than your husband?" Rainbow asked, confused.

"But the only person I can think of is… o… oh my…" Fluttershy said in realization.

"Fluttershy, do you know somethin'?" AJ asked.

"Darling… you don't mean…" Rarity guessed, realizing.

Hearing that they were starting to realize, Inferno’s anxiety finally reached its peak as he got out of his chair and tried to make a quick dash towards the door, despite his mother’s protest. But in his attempt at a quick getaway, Mrs. Cake came by with a platter with two cups of water on it, likely for Fleur and him. And without thinking, he unintentionally bumps into Mrs.Cake, causing her to spill the two glasses of water on the floor. Then Inferno slips onto the liquid puddle and falls onto his back with a hard slam.

"Oh dear!" Fleur exclaimed. She kneeled down and helped both her son and Mrs. Cake back onto their feet. "Are you two alright?"

“I-I’m fine, Fleur. No worries about…*gasp*!” Mrs.Cake gasped as she looked towards Inferno’s direction.

As did the girls and the boys. Fleur turns towards her son and she realizes why they were shocked. After he had fallen to the ground, Inferno’s hood slipped off his head, revealing his face for all to see.

Inferno groaned in pain before he looked towards everyone in the establishment, and he soon noticed their shocked expressions. He reached towards his hood, only to not feel his hood on his head, which made him realize that… they all can see his face.

"I… I… Inferno?" Sunset gasped, her tears welling up in her eyes.

Inferno had a nervous expression on his face, just as he tries to put on a smile, but fails again. As he waved at his old friends slightly as he spoke to them for the first time in two years.

“H-Hey guys… It's been a while.” he said

Right away, Sunset couldn't hold herself back and she jumped right over the table and tackled her boyfriend to the ground, wrapping him in her arms.

"INFERNO!!!" she sobbed. She sat up with him, holding him tight and never letting go. "I've missed you so much! I… I thought I'd lost you forever!"

"In…fer…no…" Israel said in a hushed voice. His dulled, lifeless eyes slowly have the color restored to them and as he gets up from the table… he breaks down. "Inferno! It is you… Inferno's back!" he exclaimed, dropping to his hands and knees. "You… You damn bastard, I looked EVERYWHERE for you!" he shouted, sobbing all the while.

Inferno didn’t have any more words to say. He was busy taking in his girlfriend and his best friend’s emotional reactions, they both overwhelmed him with so much guilt and sorrow, that he cannot respond.

Now that his friends have reunited with him, the hard part of his recovery journey is about to begin.