Champions Of Canterlot

At the Blaze’s manor; about an hour after the Sweet Snacks Cafe incident.

Everyone in the family room was silent for a long while. All didn’t know what to say or what to think of the situation they were in.

The Rainbooms, as well as Heat, Eternal, and Israel, all sat on the few couches on the left side of the family room; as well as Heat and Eternal’s parents, and Israel’s mother and brother; both families were notified of this event and arrived to the mansion in an instant.

On the other side of the room, the Blaze family sat on another couch, with Bristle Wing standing behind them. And in between Magnus and Fleur, was the one person that was the center of everyone’s attention.

Inferno Blaze.

A young man; a friend, a lover, a son, an honorary brother; who had left them all for 2 years, was now back in town.

And they didn’t know how to feel.

Sure, there were a few of them who were glad to see him back, though some were conflicted with feelings of distraught, sorrow, or anger; or a mix between the three.

"So… he's finally back, huh?" Dark asked.

"When did you say he came back?" Christina asked.

Both Magnus and Fleur were hesitant to answer, but they knew their son was too anxious and ashamed of himself to even answer any of their questions. So as Magnus clears his throat, he answers Christina’s question.

“Yesterday afternoon.” He said.

“YESTERDAY!?!?!” The Rainbooms and the boys exclaimed loudly.

“He was back in town yesterday, and none of you gave us a call about it!?” Rainbow asked in disbelief.

"Calm down, Rainbow. I'm sure they had a reason why they didn't tell us." Sunset replied, trying to calm her down.

"She's right. We had to keep him bed-ridden because of the state he was in. Our poor boy was mal-nourished and hadn't had a proper shower in years. So, we cleaned him up, fed him and allowed him to sleep. If you saw the state he was in yesterday, you would be more heartbroken than what you are all feeling right now.” Fleur explained.

Everyone fell silent and devastated to hear about Inferno's health before today. It sounded like 2 years was even more harsher on him than it was on any of them.

“And we knew eventually that we have to inform you of his return. We just didn’t expect it to be today.” Magnus stated.

"I understand. Perhaps maybe we should've waited for a week until Inferno could show his face again in public?" Heat asked.

"Correct. However, because my wife insisted on spending some quality time with Inferno, I couldn't find it in me to deny her. And I guess on their way to lunch, they must've ran into you." Magnus guessed.

“Pardon my interruption, sir. But since we have everyone here as our guest for the evening, shall I fetch drinks for this occasion. Perhaps treat them to some of our cider collection from Apple Acres?” Bristle asked Magnus.

“Yes! Please!” Rainbow proclaimed loudly, with stars in her eyes, the moment she heard the word ‘cider’.

"Oh boy, when Rainbow hears the word "cider," she just can't help herself," Sunset chuckled.

"Aww, Dashie looks so cute," Israel teased.

Then to everyone’s surprise, a soft chuckle could be heard coming from Inferno. Oh, hearing Rainbow getting excited for apple cider brought back some good memories; especially times when she and him competed for who could drink as much cider as they could. Obviously, she won everytime, but it was the most fun he had.

Hearing Inferno chuckle gave the girls and the boys some reassurance that deep underneath his hollow shell that he built around himself, there was still a small semblance of Inferno’s old self left in him.

“Yes, Bristle, you may.” Magnus said to the butler before he turned towards everyone else. “Uhm, would anyone here like a drink?” he asked all around.

Everyone nodded or at least said ‘yes’ or ‘sure’, so with that, Bristle left the room and headed to the kitchen to fetch everyone’s drinks.

And soon enough, Fleur suggested it would be wise if the parents in the room were to step out and leave the kids to catch up. And they agreed to her suggestion. So Inferno’s parents, along with Heat and Eternal’s parents, as well as Christina Yabuki, all left the family room and headed towards the kitchen. Leaving the Rainbooms and the boys alone in the room with Inferno.

"Inferno… it's really good to have you back. We've really missed you," Twilight said.

"I agree. Israel hasn't been his old, goofy self ever since you left. He barely even smiles and only does small talk." Fluttershy added.

"Yeah and when you left, it's like a piece of us had gone away as well. I was even finding it hard to have fun at times." Pinkie stated.

“And I was finding it hard to come up with any new fashion designs.” Rarity exclaimed.

“Ah’ personally didn’t change much, ‘cept that Ah’ have been overworkin’ mah’self since ya leavin’ town took a toll on all of us.” Applejack added.

“I've been lacking the motivation to even further my studies in college." Twilight said.

“What?! But Twilight, you said you were doing good?” Sunset asked.

“Well… I lied.” Twilight responded.

"She still gets good grades, but she's been doing something that I thought my brother or Israel would do . . .procrastinate." Heat added.

“And I pretty much lost 20% of my cool side, and I have to work full-time at a gym store to save up to own my very own gym; And let me be honest, it's not going well.” Rainbow stated.

“Yeah, about that. Inferno, ever since you lost your big Light-heavyweight title, the whole town lost its popularity in the whole ‘professional boxing’ business, and well… the town lost a good amount of money. So basically, now the town barely has a few boxing gyms, and about a handful of part-time boxers. And none of the matches the town staged drew enough popularity. That was until today, and as of now, Eternal and Israel are the only two in town who are now granted to compete in the Light-Heavyweight championship bout.” Sunset explained.

"And what's more is their match is scheduled in 3 weeks." Heat added.

Inferno had his head down as he heard them all talk of the things that've happened to them ever since he left. And now, hearing that his best friend and Eternal are now gonna have to slug it out for a chance at the title belt.

The same belt that he lost 2 years ago. He just hopes that the belt is in someone else’s hands by now, and not… him.

"I really didn't want it to come to this, but if I have to fight him, I'll fight with all I've got." Eternal said, though he wasn't too thrilled about it.

"I only care about who wins in the end." Israel said. "If I win, I'll fight harder. If I lose, then it's back to the drawing board."

"If, uh… you don't mind me asking… who's the champion right now?" Twilight asked.

"Last I checked, it was the same guy who knocked the arrogance out of Inferno's inflated ego: Light Heavyweight champion… Steel Mane." Eternal replied.

Inferno’s body tensed and shivered upon hearing that name. He really hoped that he would never hear that name again. But luck wasn’t really on his side. And he fears it will not be for either Eternal or Israel.

The girls all groaned in annoyance upon hearing that name.

“I’m not one to say such foul language, but I personally would rather see that no-good ruffian be beaten to a bloody pulp!” Rarity stated.

"My dear Rarity, that's not foul language. THIS is foul language: "I oughta sock it to that son of a bitch and paint the ring red with his fucking blood!" Eternal said in a low, menacing tone.

“Oh ok, duly noted.” Rarity responded calmly.

"You sound like my brother when he's in "Vigilante Mode." Israel pointed out.

"Either way, one of you guys is stepping into the ring with that guy. Just be careful, his punches are so powerful he made 4 boxers go into permanent retirement because of the severe injuries they all sustained. He even slipped 2 more into a coma." Heat warned.

The moment Heat said that, Inferno soon received flashbacks of that fight he had with Steel Mane.

*Flashback*

Inferno was in the ring with another boxer; who stood around 6’3” tall, the same height as him. He had piercing red eyes, steel gray-colored hair, light-gray brown skin. He wore white and gray trunks.

That was all Inferno could take glimpses at as he took heavy and fast blows from his opponent.

Inferno’s face was riddled with bruises and cuts as he was panicking and was aching in pain.

Pain. That was all he could remember. Every blow Steel landed on him, Inferno thought that he almost felt his ribs break.

And then came the brutal right hook that sent him tumbling to the ground and everything went black.

And all he heard in that moment were small cries of someone calling his name.

“Inferno… Inferno… Inferno… INFERNO!!!”

*End of Flashback*

“INFERNO!” Sunset screamed louder than she ever did as Inferno was having a major panic attack.

The young man breathed heavily for a few seconds as Sunset held his hand as a means to comfort him, and with that, Inferno was able to calm down as he closed his eyes and slowed his breathing. As he later opens them again, he could see all Sunset, along with the girls and the boys, all surrounding him. From his line of view and position, Inferno realized that he was laying on the floor of the family room.

“That’s it, Inferno. Just relax a bit.” Sunset spoke softly to him as she gently rustled his hair and while also still holding his hand.

Her actions helped Inferno fully recuperate from his panic attack, and soon his rapid heartbeats went back to its normal rhythm, and he was now able to control his breathing..

"What happened to the poor guy?" AJ asked.

"From his heavy breathing and erratic behavior, I say he was having a panic attack.” Twilight stated, with the knowledge she learned from her medical lessons in college.

"And I already know why," Israel added, folding his arms.

"Inferno, we understand that losing that match left quite an impact on you. But don't let it get you down so much. I'll bet once you've reconnected with your fighting spirit, you'll be knocking his lights out in no time!" Sunset encouraged, still hugging him.

Inferno’s eyes widen as he immediately gets up from the floor. “No! No no no no no!” he exclaimed as he stepped away from the group. “I’m not going back! I swore I would never go back!” Inferno stated with anxiety and aggression.

This ticked off his best friend and so he stood up himself. "Why?! Because you're afraid of getting knocked back on your ass again? Because you don't wanna be humiliated again? Because he punches too hard? Tell me, why don't you wanna fight again?" Israel asked, glaring at his friend.

“I DON’T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT!!!” Inferno shouted with such agitation as he quickly left the family room and headed towards the stairs.

The grown ups in the kitchen overheard the commotion and they immediately entered back into the living room to see what was going on. Fleur and Magnus watched as their son walked past them and sped up the stairs.

“Inferno, where are you going?” Fleur asked out of concern.

But Inferno didn’t reply as he disappeared up the stairs. And then a loud sound of a door slammed echoed across the mansion.

"Dude, what the heck did you do that for?!" Rainbow scolded.

"Honestly, Yabuki! Did you not see how distraught the poor dear was?" Rarity added.

"That was kinda mean," Pinkie also pointed out.

"Look, I'm sorry, but with the way he's acting right now, that's not the Inferno Blaze I know. Until he's ready to talk, I've gotta prepare myself for my next match." Israel sighed in frustration.

“WHAT DID YOU ALL DO TO MY SON!!!” An aggressive feminine voice echoed in the family room, the group looked over to its source and they were faced with an angry Fleur De Lis; probably mama bear instinct kicking in, as she glared at the girls and the boys.

And standing next to the celebrity model, was her husband, and Eternal and Heat’s parents, as well as Israel and Dark’s mother.

Magnus was also glaring at the young group, wanting to know what happened when they were in the kitchen with the other adults.

"Apologies, Mrs. De Lis. Inferno's just suffering from a little… PTSD. We were trying to help bring back his fighting spirit, but… it appears he's still…" Eternal paused, trying to find the right words to say.

"...still trying to cope with the loss he suffered. Inferno's probably still picturing all the gruesome events that he experienced 2 years ago, which is why he stormed off." Heat added, covering for his friend's mistake.

“And did none of you take that in mind and come to the conclusion that he needs time to recover!?” Magnus asked, with a raised tone of voice.

"We admit, we were a bit hasty, sir. We do apologize. Please don't be too mad at us. We're really worried about our friend," Fluttershy said with sincerity, looking up at the two angry parents with her pleading eyes.

With Fluttershy’s apology, Magnus and Fleur eventually calmed down a bit.

“That’s very kind of you to apologize, Fluttershy. As expected of you. But as of now, I believe you all have overstayed your welcome here. I advised you all to leave our home immediately; at least, to give our son time to calm down.” Fleur informed them all.

And at that moment, Israel didn't hesitate to take his leave without a word. He heads out the front door. Once he's out, he bolts off before anyone could try to talk to him.

"Of course, sorry fer the trouble. Come on, gals. Let's go," AJ said. The others all got up and headed out of the house, one by one, along with Heat and Eternal. The only one left… was Inferno's faithful lady.

“Sunset? You know what I said.” Fleur said to the young lady.

Sunset didn’t respond, but she gave a pleading look towards the celebrity model and her husband; pleading them for her to stay.

Fleur and Magnus could see the desperation in Sunset’s eyes; they knew how close she was to their son, and how heartbroken she was when he left town. And now that he was here, she didn’t want to part from him again.

Soon Fleur and Magnus gave in.

“Oh, alright, you can stay here, dear.” Fleur said in defeat, but she gave a warm smile towards the young lady.

“We’ll have Bristle show you to one of our guest rooms.” Magnus offered.

"Umm… if it's alright with you… I'd… like to spend the night… in your son's room… with your son… i-if that's ok." Sunset said, blushing.

“Uh, I don’t know if that’s…” Magnus spoke for a bit before he was interrupted by his wife.

“Sure thing, darling. Just you two don’t fool around up there, ok?” Fleur said, while giving Sunset a teasing look on her face.

"O-Oh, of course not! I'll make sure. Thank you," Sunset replied, as she then made her way up the stairs.

"Honey, are you sure?" Magnus asked.

“It's been two years since they last saw each other. And besides, we both know that Sunset is more capable of calming our son down on a bad day.” Fleur proclaimed.

"Well… I suppose you're right." Magnus sighs.

As she made it up to the 2nd floor, Sunset then calmly walked along the hallways, passing every room until she arrived at the door that led to Inferno’s bedroom.

"Baby, it's me," Sunset called out, knocking on his door. "Mind if I come in?"

All she heard was silence from her side of the door, until she heard Inferno’s voice unsteadily replied back.

“The doors unlocked.” He said.

That gave Sunset confirmation to enter. And so she opens the door and she calmly and cautiously enters the bedroom. Upon entering, she could see the silhouette of Inferno’s body laying on his bed, facing towards the window in his bedroom.

He lay there still, silent, and without a doubt, empty.

Sunset approaches her gloomy lover after closing the door and sits at his bedside. She tenderly rubs him while trying to comfort him.

"I'm sorry. You didn't deserve to hear all that. Would you like me to cuddle next to you?" she offered, still tenderly rubbing him through the blankets.

Inferno gave quiet muttering sounds before he quietly said: “sure”.

Sunset's face got more heated, but was glad to know he was allowing her permission. She goes and gets under the blankets with Inferno and snuggles up to him.

The two said nothing for a while and allowed their eyes to close shut and let slumber take over as the reunited couple fell asleep.

The Next Morning.

It is now 4:35 A.M and both Eternal Flames and Israel Yabuki had both left their houses, all dressed up in their jumpsuits. Both boys only had a piece of fruit for breakfast and are now meeting up at the park to start their roadwork.

The jog took about 10 minutes and once both fighters/rivals met, there was a long silence in the air as they stared at each other.

"You nearly got your head chewed off yesterday. What were you thinking?" Eternal asked.

"My best friend gets a swollen head, then gets his ass handed to him and he disappears for 2 years, only to be found as a hollow shell. He not only had me worried, but he pissed me off for acting like a child and running with his tail between his legs." Israel replied with a harsh glare.

"Look, I admit, he made an amateur mistake, but flying off the handle like that and rubbing it in his face doesn't help anyone!" Eternal scolded.

"Well, I'm sorry. But the world of boxing is not so friendly. He should've been prepared!" Israel said, slightly turning to the side.

"And I'm guessing you're gonna scold him some more?" Eternal asked, folding his arms.

"No. Let him sulk. I'll force his fighting spirit to come back… once you and I get in the ring." Israel said, making Eternal blink in surprise. "And look… we may have been friends for a long time, but I don't want you to hold anything back. One of us has to win this and show him we're not just fighting for a stupid title, but for him."

"Heh… for once, I agree with you. But just be careful with what you say to him next time. You should really apologize for getting under his skin," Eternal replied. "And another thing… Bring back the old Israel Yabuki… the goofball you like to bring people together with his wacky, happy personality."

"I'll… try." Yabuki nods. "Come on, it's roadwork time."

After exchanging their words, they spoke nothing else and started jogging down their usual path, pacing themselves. They jogged around the park 5 times. The park was at least 1.5 miles long, so they got a pretty good workout. They kept their steady pace for all 4 of their rounds, then on the 5th one, they sped up, putting much more effort and pushing their remaining stamina to the limit.

After finishing their roadwork, they headed off into the park near a big, grassy area where they began their next training regiment: 100 push-ups, sit-ups and squats.

The two fighters began with push-ups, Eternal having no trouble since he's used to them. Israel does fine at first, but after the first 25… he begins to fall behind, yet he keeps pushing himself, not wanting to quit. His muscles were aching, but he blocked it out and kept pushing. Eventually, Eternal was the first to finish his pushups while Israel struggles and completes his 100th pushup before collapsing. That’s a strong, determined mofo.

Now, it was onto the sit-ups, one of Israel's specialties. Having a lighter upper torso made it easy for Israel to keep a steady rhythm and build up strong abdominal muscles. Eternal, on the other hand, this is what he struggles with since his upper torso was bulky and lacked some of the flexibility, so it takes him longer to do sit-ups.

Both of these boys were working up a nice sweat, feeling the burn in their bodies. Ironically, Israel managed to finish his sit-ups before Eternal, then waited for him to finish. Just like Israel struggled with his last push-up, Eternal struggled with his final sit-up. But like any strong fighter, he pushed past his limit and finished.

Finally, it was time for the squats. The boys, with newfound energy, thanks to the awakened endorphins in their bodies, started doing their squats, bending their legs forward, ducking down, then pushing themselves back up at remarkable speeds. They were so focused on their training, they hardly recognized the sun barely coming into view.

Meanwhile, back at the Blaze household, Bristle Wing was in the kitchen prepping the ingredients for today's breakfast, humming a calm, melodious tune. Last night's dispute was quite a conundrum. While he had no knowledge of what happened with master Inferno and his companions, it sure was enough to bring wrath from Fleur De Lis herself. And honestly, Bristle had never seen Madame Fleur be so furious for as long as he worked for her.

Although, he doesn’t condone madam’s actions that night. Her son had returned after two years of exile and all he wanted was just to ease his traumatic experience all those years ago. And whatever his friends told him, did nothing to help ease that trauma.

And who knows how long it will take for Inferno to return to his former self; if he even wants to return back to his normal self.

Well perhaps an exquisite breakfast would ease the tensions from last night.

And on cue, Inferno and Sunset were walking down the stairs and made their way into the kitchen after leaving Inferno’s bedroom. The couple were holding hands and Sunset leaning her head on Inferno’s shoulder. The two didn’t talk much about last night, believing that it wasn’t the best time to talk about it. Sunset tries her best to show Inferno that she supports him and is there for him. But to Inferno, her being by his side and holding his hand, was all he really needed.

"Good morning, Master Inferno and Miss Shimmer. Did you both enjoy a goodnight sleep?" Bristle asked.

“Yes, we did, Bristle.” Sunset replied. “Be sure to give my gratitude to Mrs. Fleur and Mr.Magnus for letting me stay the night.”

"Of course. Although, would you care to stay for breakfast? I'm making omelets with hash browns and sausage links." Bristle offered.

“Oh I don’t…” Inferno was about to make an excuse, but Sunset wasn’t gonna let him.

“We would love to, thank you, Bristle.” Sunset proclaimed as she urged, or gently pulled, Inferno towards the dining room table.

“But I got some things to-” Inferno tries to protest, but there’s one thing that he knows, and that's to never argue with Sunset.

“Inferno, you went through a lot these past 2 years, and last night added more weight onto you. So you are gonna sit down and enjoy your breakfast. Or otherwise, I will have to call up Pinkie.” Sunset tells him straight to his face with a concern and stern expression on her face.

Inferno’s eyes widened when Pinkie was mentioned. Why, though? Well, whenever one of their friends in their group has something they don’t want to discuss or are too stubborn to say or do. Well they bring out the BIG gun; Pinkie. And nothing on this god given earth is more tormenting than hearing Pinkie talking nonsense for hours upon hours.

Without any protest, Inferno willingly did what Sunset requested and sat down at the table.

"I'm… not sure what that's all about, but all in all, I'll have two big plates ready for you two. It's so nice to have you back, Master Inferno." Bristle said, putting the finishing touches on the food.

With Bristle busy finishing up cooking, Sunset decided to scooch up closer to her boyfriend. "Hey babe, what do you say after breakfast, we go for a nice walk around town? Just the two of us and no one else?" she offered.

“Yeah… Sure. It would be nice to see around the old town. See if things had changed while I was gone.” Inferno replied.

"That's the spirit," Sunset said, hugging him before kissing him on the cheek. "Say, why don't we see what's new on TV? Bristle, where's the remote?"

"It's on the coffee table. Go on, have at it," Bristle said. Sunset got up from her seat and went into the living room and grabbed the remote. She turned on the TV and it showed the morning news report.

"... Last night's bout was by far the most thrilling experience anyone has seen in boxing. After Eternal Flames made quick work of speed star, Adrenaline, he's now secured himself a spot in the finals for a chance at the Light Heavyweight Championship belt, right next to another upcoming star, Israel Yabuki. Who’s racked up 10 wins in a row this year, all 10 of them by knockout, adding on to his 16-0 record, one of the perfect records in this sport.” The reporter explained.

Inferno was rather impressed by Israel’s record. You can say he felt sort of proud. His best friend and his other friend had truly made names for themselves and have risen to the top since he had left two years ago.

“I just hope things work out in the end.” Sunset commented, which had Inferno curious of what she meant. Sunset knows that the two won’t back out from this one-time chance, even if they have to go against each other. She just hopes that this doesn’t ruin their friendship. Even Rarity and Fluttershy both shared the same feelings.

Then the reporter went on in their broadcast.

“And these two light-heavyweight fighters will be duking it out for the chance to fight in the Light-Heavyweight Title Bout. Don't miss it, the Fiery Fists of Fury vs the Brawling Berserker. The battle for the chance to fight for it all. And the winner of this bout will face off against the reigning light-heavyweight champion of the world, the Spirit Breaker, the Iron King of fighters… Steel Mane.”

Time froze for Inferno, his whole body felt cold as ice, his hands started to shake, his mind was going haywire. He felt paralyzed and unable to utter a single word. He could hear Sunset speaking to him, but she fell deaf to the constant ringing that rang in his ears. He felt powerless… he felt hollow…he felt fear.

"Baby? Baby, are you okay?" Sunset asked, running back to her boyfriend. She shook him lightly to see if he was alright.

Then later the flashbacks appeared again in his mind, bashing at his sanity and booming in his mind like cannonballs. He could remember the pain, the heavy blows, and his bones breaking. It was all too much for him, so much so that he soon collapsed out of his chair. Sunset then reacted fast and caught Inferno in her arms.

"Inferno! Inferno, what's wrong? Speak to me!" she panicked.

Bristle soon heard the commotion, looked over and noticed the young master had collapsed. "Oh dear! Quick, let's put him over on the couch!" he suggested. The butler helped his master's girlfriend pick him up and carried him over to the big couch, laying him down gently.

“What happened?!” Bristle asked the young lady while he checked to see if Inferno had sustained any bruises or injuries. Luckily, he was unharmed.

"I'm not sure. He was just fine until…" Sunset paused and gasped in realization. "...Until he heard that name on the news."

"Name? What name?" Bristle asked..

“The name of the guy who did this to him.” Sunset stated, not wanting to even say that asshole’s name herself.

Bristle was confused about what she meant, at first. But after his thoughts were processed, he then realized what she meant. “...Oh.” Was all he could say.

Steel Mane. The fighter that took Inferno’s light-heavyweight title… And broke his fighting spirit in the process. The Blaze family hoped to never hear of him again, and hoped that some other fighter would put him in his place. But it would seem that Steel continued to hold the title for these past two years.

Sunset knows how much that last fight Inferno had, broke him more than any fighter would. She had seen Inferno face many strong fighters, even some that could force fighters to retire. But Inferno always came out on top.

But Steel was not like any opponent that he faced, and he lost to him.

And knowing that either Israel or Eternal would have to fight the same guy that beat Inferno if either of them wins; brought fear and concern to Sunset’s conscience. Because no matter the outcome… blood will spill. And one of Inferno's friends might not come back from this… ever. At least… mentally.

Meanwhile, back at Celestia's humble abode, she and her husband were in the kitchen, with her all decked in her purple tank top and matching sweats, cooking up breakfast while her husband drank coffee at the table, watching the news. He wore his blue work suit, necktie and hair slick back. Their youngest son, Heat, was still asleep since he doesn't have class until 11 A.M. Just one of the perks of being a college student.

"Have you noticed, honey? Since our boys have been busy with college and boxing, it's become less and less noisy around here," Celestia pointed out.

"Isn't that a good thing, honey?" Blaze asked.

"Yes, but… after a couple of years, I… kinda miss this place being so loud and lively." Celestia said as she flipped a flapjack from her pan.

"I know, honey. But our boys have grown up. It was bound to happen eventually. Though, I do admit, I kinda miss having Eternal and Heat around when I needed him." Blaze said. "Sometimes, I'd miss them having their little squabbles."

"Which resulted in me having to punish our oldest boy since he's bigger and stronger." Celestia said, recalling the few times she grounded Eternal in his younger days.

"And at one point he refused to speak to you because you kept targeting him for punishment. How long did he stay in his room without coming out unless it was for dinner and school?" Blaze Burn asked.

"6 months," Celestia said.

"Yeah… that's ONE hell of a grudge he held. I kinda expected it to be even longer, especially with his stubbornness.” Blaze Burn commented.

“Where’d he inherit that I wonder?” Celestia responded while eyeing at her husband with a smug face.

"You know me, he handles his business the way I handle mine with the board of directors." Blaze pointed out.

"Well, one thing's for certain… he certainly made me reach my breaking point. I can't believe I promised him I'd stop "targeting" him if he stops quarreling with Heat." Celestia said.

“Well, it sounds like he has his old man’s negotiation skills.” Blaze Burn proclaimed while chuckling to himself.

"Yeah… my two babies… all grown up. Now I have all this spare time and I dunno what to do with it… unless you have some ideas," Tia hinted at her hubby with a wink.

"Well… since you put it that way… I'll see to it that we book a place for next week and enjoy some "you and me" time." Blaze said, catching on.

“Well… I'm most certainly looking forward to it.” Tia responded, eagerly.

The married couple then shared a hug right before they shared a few kisses, some were even passionate.

"Really?” They heard a familiar voice spoken to them, which caused the two married adults to break their kissing session and turn towards the archway that leads out of the kitchen and into the living room; and there stood Heat Blitz.

“You're gonna swap spit the moment I wake up to the smell of breakfast?" Heat commented while he was scratching an itch near his left rib cage.

“Uh Uh…” Tia tried to say something, but couldn’t think of what to say.

“W-We were just… Uhhhh…” Even Blaze tried to find something to say, but failed as well.

"I know, I know. So, what's on today's agenda? The usual?" Heat asked.

“As usual and boring as it gets, son.” Blaze replied to his son’s question. "What about you, what's on your agenda today?"

"I have a big project the professor wants me to work on. He's setting up a little practice session for me and someone having issues. He wants me to document everything we discuss and report it back to him privately." Heat explained.

"Ah, so my boy's running his first crash course. Proud o' ya, kiddo.," Blaze said.

"I hope you pass this. Hey, on your way to the University, could you do me a big favor? Your older brother forgot his lunch again and I don't want him to go hungry after his excessive workout session." Celestia said.

"Sure, I'll make sure he gets it. Where's his lunch?" Heat asked.

"In the fridge." she pointed out.

"Alright. You can count on me. So, whatcha got cookin’ up today?" Heat asked.

"Some blueberry flapjacks with bacon and eggs." Celestia replied.

“Oh, nothing on this god-given Earth can cook pancakes better than your mother.” Blaze Burn commented heartedly, recalling the many times he ate his wife’s delicious pancakes. “I even took some with me to work for lunch… I even had to strangle a co-worker when they tried to steal it from me.”

"Uh… wouldn't that result in a lawsuit? Couldn't you just warn them not to do it and threaten to fire them if they tried to take your lunch again?" Heat asked.

"Are you kidding me? When it comes to your mom's home cooking, NO ONE touches it except her and her family.” Blaze responded in defense. “And besides, turns out, he wasn’t actually an employee of the business,” he commented.

“What?” Tia said in response.

“Really? Who was the guy?” Heat asked out of curiosity.

“I’m not sure… yet. The police are still investigating.” Blaze answered, and left it at that.

"Huh… Did you even have any idea what he even looked like?" Heat asked.

"No clue. But he DID have this pudgy build and was probably around your height. I couldn’t possibly tell, cause i had my arm around his neck and he was screaming: “UNCLE! UNCLE!”.” Blaze commented.

"I see. Well, if they find him, hopefully he'll get his just desserts," Heat replied.

“Oh he’s already arrested, he couldn’t escape cause I had him in a chokehold.” Blaze proclaimed.

“What caused you not to let go, honey?” Celestia asked.

Blaze looked at his wife with a look that could kill. “He ate my pancake.” He spoke with venom in his tone of voice. Then he cleared his throat, as a gesture to change the conversation. “Well, I best head off to work.” He stated.

"Heh, wow… Now I see where Eternal gets his violent side," Heat chuckles.

“Oh don’t you forget, young man. I also provide my violent side as well.” Celestia responded with a sassy tone. She then comes over to Heat, giving him a plate of her delicious blueberry flapjacks, setting it on the table. "Now go on and eat up. You'll need your strength for today."

"Alright. Thanks, mom." Heat replies before getting down to eating.

Then Celestia walks over to her husband and the two share one last kiss before he finally leaves for work.

“You have a good day, honey.” Tia said to wish him luck.

“You too, honey.” He replied back with a smile.

And with that Blaze Burn left the kitchen and towards the front door, Celestia and Heat could know he had left by the sound of the front door opening and closing. Followed by his car engine starting up and zooming off into the city.

Meanwhile, after having recovered from his second anxiety attack since last night, Inferno still takes up Sunset’s offer earlier, and the two were strolling through town together. It was a peaceful activity for Inferno, being able to relive some good memories in the places he’s been to in his hometown, and it got his mind off his panic attack this morning.

And that's Sunset's intentions at the moment.

She was still shaken up from her boyfriend’s panic attack, feeling heavily concerned for him. Wondering if he’s still shaken up from his last fight two years ago. She had a feeling that he wasn’t fully recovered these past two years; and she fears that if he’s not given time to take things slow and steady, his condition may get worse.

She just hopes that this nice, quiet stroll along the sidewalks of town would put his mind at ease. "Gotta love that fresh air, huh babe?" Sunset asked.

Inferno was silently observing the buildings of the town, reminiscing old memories and breathing that good ole’ Canterlot air. “Yeah… I sure do.” Inferno replied as he wrapped his arm around Sunset’s back and held her close. Showing his appreciation for her showing around the old town.

Sunset smiled by the gesture and leaned her head against his shoulder as the two kept walking along the sidewalk.

"You know, Inferno… I still have that gift you gave me for my birthday 2 years ago. I've never taken it off… unless I was showering. But I never stopped thinking about you the whole time you disappeared." Sunset then pulls out a beautiful necklace from her shirt. It was a silver chain necklace with a locket that displayed a picture of her and Inferno sharing their first kiss.

Inferno admired the picture, smiling warmly while remembering that day very clearly. Recalling the two of them standing on the small brick bridge at Canterlot Park, it was before dawn rose. The stars were shining, a shooting star passed by in the night sky, and the two waited for the sun to rise. It was such a beautiful moment, that the two of them fell into each other’s trances and shared their first kiss.

Tears threatened to escape Inferno’s eyes from that warm memory. It was the one good moment of his life. It was never rivaled by any good memory he had, especially all his wins as a pro boxer. That was truly a great memory.

So much so, it put his mind more at ease. "You know… it's been a while since we've been to that special place. What do you say we revisit the park? Relive that memory all over again?" Sunset asked.

Inferno turned to face her, with his smile becoming wider as he did. “Yeah… I would love that.” He said.

"Great! Follow me," Sunset tugged on her boyfriend's arm and guided him off into the direction of the park. The young couple arrives there in just 10 minutes and make their way to that special spot they visited that fateful day.

Upon arriving, the memories of that fateful day came rushing back into their minds. Inferno will never forget that day. A couple of years back, before he became a boxer, it was around that time Sunset was barely redeeming herself. It was after they beat the Dazzlings in the Battle of the Bands and saved their school.

Sunset had asked Inferno to meet her in the park that day. She poured her feelings out to him, saying how grateful she was when he gave her a chance at friendship, even when all others were against her. Especially after that… that awful Anon-a-miss incident.

It was because of his kind heart that she fell in love with him. And when she confessed… Inferno confessed back, saying he had feelings for her as well. Then he sealed the deal by saying seven words that she’ll never forget; “My heart will always belong to you”. And once both of them knew how they truly felt for each other, nothing could stop them from embracing each other under the beautiful night sky, with the moon as their witness and a shooting star passing by into the night.

Inferno and Sunset will never forget that night. "Would you look at this? Even in the daytime, it's still as beautiful as I remember. Don't you think, Inferno?"

"Sure, but the real beautiful one here is… you, Sunset," Inferno replied.

"Aww, thanks, babe." Sunset blushed. "You know… I still remember the song I sang to you before I confessed to you. Do you remember?"

"How could I forget? You sounded like an angel." Inferno replied.

"Maybe I still do. Wanna hear again?" she asked. Inferno simply nodded. Sunset then took in a deep breath and sang out her beautiful melody.

As her soft, angelic voice rang out, everything around them seemed to shine and sparkle. The birds in the trees sang, flapping their wings and flying around the couple before taking off. A gentle breeze brushes by, causing some of the tree leaves to fall off their branches and flow with the wind.

If anything, this entire moment was way more magical than any spell Equestria had to offer. Inferno never took his eyes off his shimmer sunshine of a girlfriend, smiling brightly as she kept singing to him.

It doesn't take long before he holds her close and sways with her in sync with her song. Love has taken over these two all over again. Their hearts racing and beating as one. Their love for each other has once again spread their wings and taken flight.

After she finishes her song, the two share a passionate kiss under the warm rays of the sun.

"Still as beautiful as I remember," Inferno commented.

“So does that mean I still hold a place in your heart?” Sunset asked.

Inferno chuckled heartily and said; “My heart will always belong to you.”

Sunset's entire body felt warm and fuzzy upon hearing him say that again. She hugs him one last time and nuzzles into his chest. Inferno glady shared his embrace in return, as his head rested on hers as he held her close and had no intentions of letting go; never again.

Meanwhile, with a certain egghead who's currently doing her college homework in her room, Twilight receives a notification on her phone. She puts down her textbooks and checks her phone for a second. She notices it's a group text and pulls it up.

She sees a picture of Sunset and Inferno hugging each other in the park. "Aww… isn't that just the sweetest thing?" she asked, loving the picture.

Over with Rainbow Dash, who's arrived at her job 10 minutes early, she's currently looking at the group text. A part of her wants to make barf noises since she's not much of a "mushy romance" type of girl, but another part of her is proud they're still together. She even replies in the group text.

"Someone tell those two to get a room. Lol.” she typed as a joke.

And over with Rarity, who's managing her shop, she notices the text and puts in lots of heart emojis before texting in "It's like a fairy tale come to life. So romantic."

“Romantic schmantic.” Rainbow typed in reply with a tongue-out emoji.

"Typical Dash, always pokin' fun at anythin' mushy," Applejack typed in reply.

"It's so nice seeing you two so happy together," Fluttershy typed.

"YIPPEE!!! I see a smile on his face, too!" Pinkie typed in.

“Looks like we’re slowly getting our old Inferno back.” Twilight typed in the group chat.

"That's one set of good news. But it's still gonna take some time before he gets his fighting spirit completely." Sunset typed.

“But will he want to go back to fighting? I mean he did have two years to think about it.” Fluttershy questioned through text.

"He will, eventually. He just needs the right kind of motivation. Rarity, Fluttershy, your boyfriends are gonna be fighting eventually, right?" Sunset asked through text.

“Oh please don’t remind me darling. I’m still trying to not think about it until the day comes. I am deeply concerned about how this might change my flaming prince.” Rarity typed her thoughts.

"Me neither. This fight and so many others have changed my goofy boyfriend and now all he thinks about is how to beat his next foe. I want my old Yabuki back," Fluttershy texted in reply.

“Ah’ see ya both are mighty concerned for the two boys, but we won’t know fer sure what the outcome will be.” Applejack stated in text.

"I don't wanna sound insensitive, but with the way they are now… there's gonna be blood spilt in that ring." Rainbow texted.

“Ok! Ok! Let's take our minds off that for a moment and focus on something else for the time being. Sounds okay for everyone?” Twilight typed in response to everyone’s concerns.

There was a long pause in the group chat until the rest of the girls replied in response.

“Yeah sure.” Rainbow typed.

“Ah’ agree.” AJ typed.

"Alright, umm… Rainbow Dash, how's the whole saving up to buy a gym coming along?" Rarity asked through text.

"So far, with a little extra effort and about 5 to 10 overtimes, and tolerance for annoying customers, I've saved up to almost 10 grand. I still had to pay rent since I still live with my mom and dad." Rainbow explained in the chat.

“So how close to your goal, Dashie?” Pinkie asked in text.

“Well…” A long pause after Dash sent that before she typed another response. “I’m about 5 grand short. But it's closer than I ever got in two years.” Rainbow texted.

"I see. Well, if you ever need any help from us, let us know and we'll have your side." Sunset assured in the text.

“Thanks guys. I appreciate it very much.” Rainbow texted.

“So did you have any other customers touch your bun buns today.” Pinkie texted with a smiley face emoji. Likely doing this as a tease.

Then the rest of the girls posted laughing face emojis after her text.

“I SHOULD HAVE NEVER TOLD YOU ABOUT THAT INCIDENT!!!” Rainbow texted with an angry emoji at the end.

“But ya did.” AJ texted in reply, with a laughing emoji.

"And you gotta admit, you do have a fine tushie," Pinkie texted. Then she added another text message soon after. “Don’t ya agree, Fluttershy?” With both a raised eyebrow and smirking emojis at the end.

"Oh, umm… hehe… s-s-sure. Yay," Fluttershy texted.

There was a short pause in the chat group before Rainbow sent a flustered emoji in response to Fluttershy’s text message.

“Wow, seriously, get a room, you two.” Sunset texted with a smirk emoji.

Then followed a bunch of laughing emojis from the other girls while both Fluttershy and Rainbow sent flustered emojis. And with that last laugh, the girls decided to end the group chat and go about their day.

Once the chat had ended, Twilight continued chuckling from that funny moment she had, which made her deeply glad to have friends like the girls. Once she calmed down, and her mind cleared, she soon got back to her college homework for the rest of the day.