Just Another Night At the Bar

Chapters

Rough Mornings
Life Story
Is the Fourth Time Lucky?
A "Normal" Family Dinner
The Grand Date
Goodbyes aren't Forever
Water & Wine
Turbulence of the Heart and Mind

Rough Mornings

Bishop heard an alarm going off, the alarm that he forgot to turn off the day before it showed that it was six in the morning, stopping him from sleeping in for the first time in many moons. The reply was the alarm being surrounded by a grey aura and being turned off, before being levitated over to and dropped in the nearest trash can.

Afraid that his house guest was woken up he slipped down the hall quietly and peeked inside, Twilight was still asleep thankfully. Waking up somebody after a night of drinking was not the smartest thing to do, and getting himself back to sleep was not going to happen, so he got himself ready for the day.

Bishop just walked into the kitchen and started his coffee maker, coffee always helped him wake up in the morning with the taste and smell. He sat on the couch with a cup of coffee and enjoyed the peace and quiet, which was a refreshing change from the hectic mornings getting ready for work. The sound of stirring came from the bedroom, with Twilight emerging from it soon after holding a fore hoof to her temple.

"Good morning Twilight, how are you feeling this morning?" Bishop greeted.

"Not great," she groaned, "my head is pounding."

"There's an ice pack in the freezer if your headache is bad enough," he pointed to the refrigerator.

She went into the kitchen and came back out holding the pack against her forehead, "that helps a lot, did you put this in the freezer just for me?"

"Yeah, I threw it in there last night before I went to bed," he explained.

"I thought you said you couldn't drink."

"Right, but I still know what a hangover is, as well as the symptoms of one," he laughed a little.

"Still, thank you... how bad was I last night?"

"What do you mean?" He gave her a puzzled look.

"Well... I had one too many and I need to know if I did something... stupid, for lack of better words."

"Only thing I could note is that the hotel you said you were staying at didn't have any rooms listed under your name, which is why I brought you back to my place last night."

"Wait, this is your home? I thought it was my hotel room!"

"Yeeaah, this is my apartment, don't you remember... actually never mind," he realized that alcohol acts as a memory blocker.

"I-I'm sorry I didn't mean to be such a burden!" She looked like she was going to make a break for the front door.

"Whoa, whoa calm down, everything's alright, you're not a burden, just relax," he walked in between her and the door and got her to ease up a little, "do you want some coffee? I just brewed it this morning."

"Uh... sure but don't you have to work today?"

"Actually, this is my first day off in a couple months, I don't have any real plans for the day," Bishop smiled, the idea of not having to do anything filled him with joy.

"And you had to take care of me this morning..." her ears drooped down and looked at the floor.

"Hey, don't you start blaming yourself, I literally had nothing to do so helping a friend out just made my morning, besides I didn't even get to sleep in this morning because I forgot to shut off my alarm yesterday, stupid thing." he muttered.

She laughed a little, "so you're sure I'm not being a burden?"

"Absolutely, as far as I'm concerned my home is your home," Bishop sat down on the couch, "make yourself comfortable."

"Really? Just after one night you just open up your home up to me?" Twilight asked in shock.

"To a friend absolutely, I couldn't just leave you here with no place to rest and to be honest I don't have a lot of friends because of my lifestyle," he explained, sipping his coffee. "So I try to keep the friends I do make close, so don't be afraid to make yourself at home I really don't mind."

Twilight hesitantly sat down next to him, "thank you for your hospitality."

"Don't mention it," Bishop got up and headed into the kitchen and poured another cup of coffee and walked back out into the living room. "Here," he handed her a full cup of coffee, "it's still pretty warm."

She sat up, put the ice pack on the coffee table and took it in both hooves, "thank you."

He sat back down next to her and took another sip from his cup, "I have creme and sugar if you want it."

Twilight took a sip and flinched slightly, "no it's fine, a little hot though."

"Sorry, I should've grabbed some ice or something."

"No, I can just wait a minute, you've done plenty for me," she yawned and put her head on Bishop's shoulder.

"Still sleepy, huh?" He stretch his free arm around her and rubbed her shoulder.

"Yeah," she yawned again, "I can't stand sleeping in though."

"I tried to sleep in today, that didn't go well," he laughed.

Twilight took another sip of her coffee, this time giving a hum of approval, "what blend is this?"

"I couldn't tell you the name of it, but it came from Saddle Arabia," he explained.

"Saddle Arabia? That must cost a fortune! How can you afford that?"

"Uhh, my job at the Institute pays really well, I gotta spend those bits on something," he took a swig of coffee.

"Really? Couldn't you get a nice house or something?"

"I could if I felt like it, but it would be kind of pointless to do that since I would just be living by myself, this amount of space works well for me."

"You're not seeing some pony or something?"

"Nope, I don't really have that much of a social life, and that's spent at the bar we were at last night," he finished off his cup.

"Oh, well what about the mares that go to the bar?" She asked with a hint of curiosity.

"I can't really say I find any of them attractive," he stared into his empty cup, "in my mind, looks only go so far... I want to have a mare in my life that has the intelligence to match her looks."

"...Wow, you really are not like any stallion I've met before," she sipped her cup, trying to avoid eye contact.

"How so?"

"No stallion I've met would say that they would want a mare with intelligence... just looks."

"To be honest I'm not surprised, but hey no one ever claimed I was normal," Bishop laughed.

Twilight joined in his laughter, "no you are definitely not normal, but I think that's a good thing."

"I do too," he patted her shoulder, signaling he was getting up again, "do you want a refill? I'm getting one myself."

"Uh, sure if you want to..." she hesitated.

He took her cup in a grey aura, "yes I do, don't be afraid to ask," he smiled and walked back into the kitchen, she's acting a little nervous, what's going on with her? She's probably just a little caught off-guard waking up in some one else's home. He filled the two cups and walked back into the living room to see Twilight stretched out on her side across the couch sleeping. Okay, that is by far the cutest thing I've ever seen, he put her cup on the coffee table and stood in front of the window, enjoying the scenery of autumn.

His guest remained on the couch for an hour or so before cracking her eyes open again and sitting up, "I thought you said you couldn't sleep in?" Bishop joked.

"I didn't sleep in, I just fell back asleep," Twilight retorted, "and I think my brain and body appreciate me doing that."

"What about your mane? I think that it didn't really appreciate it," he pointed at her mane, which was stricken with bed head, trying to stifle his laughter.

She saw how her mane was sticking out every which way, "I, uh..." her face grew red and she ran into the bathroom and slammed the door behind her. Wow... I probably could've done that with a bit more subtly, she probably likes me a whole lot less now, way to go moron.

After a few minutes of silence, Bishop couldn't let the silence continue, he walked up and knocked on the bathroom door. "Twilight... I'm sorry, I didn't mean anything by what I said, I was just being an idiot, can you come back out?"

The silence returned for a few minutes before a response came from the other side of the door, "I... I know you didn't mean it... it's just..."

"Just what?"

"Just ...never mind," the door opened slowly, revealing a more well groomed Twilight, "what are we going to do for breakfast?"

"Well, there are a few cafes in town," he noted.

"Would this be... a date?"

"No, no, no this would just be two friends getting some breakfast, nothing like that," he rubbed the back of his neck, although, a date doesn't sound too terrible...

"Oh, okay," her tone was either one of relief or disappointment.

"Shall we be off, milady?" He offered his hoof.

"Of course sir," she accepted his hoof as he led her through the front door.

"So what are you going to do?" Bishop asked heading down the stairs with Twilight right behind him.

"I don't really know... maybe some breakfast will help clear my thoughts."

"Well my offer still stands, today we could just walk through town and see the sights," he walked through the automatic doors that lead out of the apartment complex.

"That sounds very nice, I think for today I will take you up on your offer and then go from there," she walked up next to Bishop, matching his pace.

"Well, I would be happy to accommodate you for your stay here in town," he stopped and turned to face her, "I wouldn't have it any other way."

"No, no, no I couldn't impose on you for any longer than I already have," her eyes were gazing down at the ground.

"It is no imposition," he pulled her eyes from the ground to meet his, "I promise, I would be happy to have some company for a few days."

She looked him in the eye for a minute, "okay," she sighed, "I'll stay, I mean, what kind of story would I tell my friends at home if I went home early?"

"I'm glad," he turned around and started walking again, trapping himself in thought, wow, those eyes of hers... just... those purple eyes...

"So where will we be our enjoying breakfast this morning?" Twilight inquired.

"Huh?" Bishop was snapped back to reality, mostly, "oh yeah there's a little cafe around the corner up here I go to sometimes in the morning before work, it has very good uh... cripes."

"I think you mean crepes," Twilight laughed a little.

"Yeah those things, I'd have figured it out eventually," he lied.

"Suuure, you would have," she rolled her eyes, with a playful smile on her face.

"Okay, I claimed I knew magic, I never said I knew anything about fancy food, Ms. Smarty Pants," he retorted.

The two walked up to a little outdoor cafe, the unicorn waiter stood at the podium wearing a gold vest uniform which contrasted his black coat well, "ah Mr. Bishop a pleasure to see you again, the usual table for one?"

"Not today, I have a guest this morning," he took a step to the side revealing the guest, "Twilight, this is another friend of mine, Niccolo, I've known him since my first year here."

The unicorn gave a small bow, "a pleasure to meet you Ms. Twilight, any friend of Bishop here is most welcome at this establishment."

Niccolo led the two to an open table, "shall you have the usual sir?"

"Sure, thank you."

"And for you Miss?"

She scanned the menu for a moment, "wow everything looks good here, I would like have the egg croissant and a glass of water, please."

"Ah, an excellent choice madame, I will return shortly with your drinks," he left the table and headed inside.

"Do you know all of the servers in this town?" Twilight asked.

"Not all, but I find there company a lot more enjoyable than most of the other ponies here..." Bishop answered.

"Bishop? Is that you?!" A voice called from the street, no, not him... not Boyle, anyone but him! The pony walked over to their table. "We're missing you at the office... oh and who might this lady be?"

Boyle, was a coworker at the institute, he was polar opposite to Bishop in every way, invasive, rude and downright annoying at the best of times. He had a blue coat and a white mane, which went well with his lab coat, the only positive thing that Bishop could ever say about him.

"Hello Boyle, this is my friend Twilight, she's staying in town for a few days, but why aren't you at the lab now?"

He turned to greet her, "Boyle's the name, a pleasure to meet you." Meanwhile, Bishop just looked at Twilight and silently mouthed the words 'I'm so sorry!'

She glanced at Bishop for a moment before turning back to Boyle, "likewise."

"So what is a lady like you doing in a place like this?" He asked. Waiting to eat breakfast, oh and for you to leave, I'm doing the same.

"Just seeing the sights with a friend," she gestured toward the other pony at the table.

"Oh, him? You should spend your time with a stallion that makes real contributions to the world of magic."

"Yes, because shortening the casting time for a spell by half a millisecond, at the cost of double the energy is much more of a contribution compared to doubling the distance of teleportation spells at half the cost of energy." Bishop rolled his eyes, just hoping for him to leave now.

Boyle simply ignored his comment, "so how about it? We ditch this guy and go and get something to eat?" Yes, because it's clear that she isn't getting food here, you incompetent moron.

Twilight laughed, "I think I'm good with my current location and company, it was nice meeting you."

Boyle stood speechless and confused, but left none the less, once he was out of sight, Bishop felt it was safe to laugh. "I really am sorry about that."

"So he's your coworker?"

"Unfortunately, but before you ask no he's not like that all the time, he's usually worse!" He couldn't stifle his laughter any more. "Now do you see why I prefer the company of the humble waiters, waitresses and bartenders here?"

The laughter was infectious as Twilight caught it, "yes, yes I do, that was certainly something I did not expect from this town."

Niccolo returned to the table with the drinks, "sorry for the wait, there was a small mishap in the kitchen." He placed two glasses of water on the table.

"Is anybody hurt?" Bishop asked.

"Thankfully not, someone just took a plateful of food and dropped it on the ground, leaving pieces of the plate all over the floor. No one stepped on them and it got picked up quickly, the younger staff members can be a little jumpy."

"I'm just glad everyone's okay, but that's probably good since it let you avoid Boyle."

"Boyle, why was he here? That pony is the right kind to get under my coat like no other."

"Trying to walk off with Twilight, fortunately she's as smart as she looks and shut him right down. I still can't stop laughing about it!"

Niccolo just started to laugh, "ah, such a foal in every sense."

"Yeah, so how's the wife and fillies?"

"Very good, the girls are doing well in school and picking up magic quickly, thanks to those tips you gave me to help them."

"Think nothing of it Niccolo, you would have done the same for me."

"Of course, but the wife would like to know if you would like to finally come for some dinner some time this week."

"Hmm," he looked over at Twilight and then back to Niccolo, "would I be able to bring a guest? It's alright if I can't I don't want to ask too much."

"Sir, I would be honored to have the two of you at my home, how about tomorrow night at seven?"

He turned back to Twilight, "that sound like fun?"

"Of course, I would love to," she answered.

"Excellent, well I'm sorry but I must check on the other customers," he left the table heading to the other end of the cafe.

"So, you helped his daughter's with their magic?"

"Uh, sorta, I pretty much told him some exercises they should try to help them focus their magic," Bishop explained.

"Well, that was certainly nice of you, so why did you ask if I could come?"

"It would be nice to have you there with me and I wouldn't feel right about turning down the offer or leaving you at my place with nothing to do. So I figured I would take two birds with a single stone," he smiled.

"Well, I'm sure it will be a fun evening, but for now I could really use some breakfast."

"Don't worry, Niccolo will get us taken care of as soon as he can," Bishop sat back in his chair. "In the meantime, we should get to know each other a little better."

"That's sounds like a good idea, would you like to go first?"

"Sure, I'll try to give you the not slow version..."

Life Story

While waiting for their breakfast, Bishop and Twilight decide to take the opportunity to get to know each other a little more. Bishop went first:

"My life started in Canterlot, my father is a noble in the Royal Court and my mother is... well a noble's wife. She is the one that plans all of those parties that would just be a gathering of the politicians in the city, and I was always to be in attendance. I suppose I can't complain about having to always be there, other children came and would talk to me when they came. Some were pleasant, others... less so. Those unpleasant guests helped me make an important promise to myself that I will never be able to thank them enough for... never let money, power or anything make me think I'm any better than anyone else.

"These guests would come, give me some sort of 'greeting' and either use the servants as a source of entertainment for the rest of the night, or just talk about what they've made them do. On top of that, they all tried to one up each other about it, as if it was some sort of competition. It made me sick to my stomach to see and hear what those poor ponies had to do for such intolerable foals. Now thankfully, there were some respectable foals there that I could carry conversation with. These more pleasant guests knew they had money, but never let it change them. These guests were a few years older than myself, but they let me join there circles anyway. They helped me learn how to live with money since they lived comfortably with it and had only what they needed to keep things that way.

"These ponies were the most influential on me at that stage of my life, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I grew up in this environment until I was ready to move out on my home and make something of myself. I received private tutoring and learned much about the field of magic, so I decided that I would try to expand upon that knowledge at the college in Canterlot. One of the benefits of being apart of nobility was the doors it opened for me, I was admitted almost the moment I entered the grounds because of my father's position.

"The experience was definitely... different from private tutoring sessions. The crowded lecture halls took some getting used to and sharing a dorm with others even more so. But, I adapted, and got a good degrees in magic theory and execution. I graduated and headed out to look for a job, but I found that they sought me more than I sought them. My first week after graduating I found at least five job offers sitting in my mailbox. I did research on the offers, three were in Canterlot, one in Manehatten and the one here in Phillydelphia."

"Each job were all as good as the others, about the same amount of pay and I would be doing the same job more or less. Canterlot seemed too close to home, I was ready to move out from my home and travel a little. I visited Manehatten for an interview, but the city seemed... less than friendly to me that day. Thankfully, this city is the perfect distance from home to be able to visit during holidays and it has been most kind to me. I've been here since, I learned early that the successful ponies here act similar to the children of my youth. So I avoid them, the humble workforce is much better company for me to keep. Any place I go to regularly, I probably know the staff there. Anyway, that's my story, I'm sorry if it wasn't exactly interesting."

Twilight sat for a moment in silence, "I thought it was interesting."

"Really? I've seen ponies fall asleep hearing that story... and you thought it was interesting?" There was a hint of skepticism in his voice.

"Well... yes, I admire the simplicity that you've experienced. I know a stallion that would love to have a life like that."

A stallion? I should've known she was already spoken for, oh well. No reason that I still can't be her friend, right? "Please enlighten me on how one would want such an... uneventful life."

"Well, he's been through a time of... turbulence, for lack of better words. I promised him that I wouldn't go into detail but I know that he of all ponies would appreciate a simple life."

"Are you two close?" Wait, what did I just ask!? When did I lose control of my mouth?!

"Well, we're close friends, I've known him for about half a year maybe a little longer."

"Just friends?" Okay, no more control, got it. All I can do is sit back and hope this doesn't end too badly.

"Yeah, why do you ask?" She raised an eyebrow in suspicion.

"No reason!" At least I got control back, it's as if my subconscious overruled my brain...

"Okay..."it was clear that she was still suspicious, "anyway, his name is Dusk. He and my friends back home are planning his wedding right now, and since I have very little experience with weddings I thought it would be the perfect time to take a trip to some place new. The seminar I was supposed to be attending was a perfect opportunity."

"So, you came here because you don't have anything to do with the planning of a wedding?"

"Yes," she sighed, staring down at her glass of water, "it's a bit sad isn't it?"

"No, I'd probably do the same thing in your situation."

"...You're just saying that, aren't you?" Her eyes stayed fixed on her glass, similar to the night before. There she goes again, just staring at her glass like it's the only thing in Equestria.

"No, I have no experience with weddings, I would probably just get in the way if I tried to help. My response would be getting out of the way, too."

Twilight perked up a little, pulling her eyes away from the drink and looking at Bishop, "really? So you don't think I'm being really dumb?"

He was perplexed by her question, "how could you be dumb? If you can't help and feel like you might get in the way, going out traveling is a pretty smart thing to do, in my opinion at least."

She gave a sigh of relief, "thanks, I needed to hear that."

"Glad to help, just do me one favor."

"What's that?"

"Don't call yourself dumb, I've known you for less than a day and I know you are definitely not dumb."

Twilight blushed slightly, "okay, I'll try."

"Glad to hear it," he smiled.

Niccolo returned with Twilight's croissant and Bishop's meal, a simple omelet. "There you go, again terribly sorry for the wait."

"My friend, it is quite alright, things happen that we can't control."

"Very true, anything else I can get you?" The two shook their heads, "then I will let you enjoy your meals." He headed to the opposite side of the cafe to tend to other customers.

The two ate in silence for some time, the meals where nearly completed before Bishop spoke up. "Well, I've done my share of talking, you want to talk for a bit?"

"It would be the least I could do for my humble host." Her 'host' sat back and prepared for the tale he was about to hear.

"Like you, I started my life in Canterlot. I took a strong liking to magic and decided to study and focus on it. My parents enrolled me in Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns. During the entrance exam, I showed that my body contains a large amount of raw magic when I hatched a dragon egg. Princess Celestia decided to take me as her personal student."

"Wait, you're Twilight Sparkle!?" Bishop nearly jumped out of his seat.

"I never told you?" She tilted her head in confusion.

"I think I would have remembered being told about you being one of the most famous unicorns of our time!"

"I wouldn't say most famous..." She turned away and began to blush a little.

"Really?" He gave her a skeptical glance, "the unicorn who took down Discord and freed Nightmare Moon, who represents Harmony as the Element of Magic, as well as Princess Celestia's prized pupil. I would most definitely say you're the most famous, not to mention most powerful, unicorn of this or any time!"

Twilight's face was now completely red, "am I really that famous?"

"Yes, without a doubt any unicorn this side of Equestria knows who you are." How could I have not noticed? Her name, the fact she's a unicorn, everything couldn't have been so coincidental....

"I didn't know that my name was so well known..."

Niccolo came back to the table, "here's the bill my friend. Did you happen to read the paper this morning?"

"Uh, no. Why? Is there something that I should know?" Bishop pulled out a pouch of bits and gave it to Niccolo.

"Well, the pegasi are planning a large storm this afternoon. Apparently, the team is making up for any rain that they missed earlier this month and decided to get it all out at once." What in the name of Celestia are these weather teams doing to make such a decision with no consultation with the citizens of the city?

"Who authorized such action to take place?"

"Evidently, the mayor gave the okay yesterday evening. At least that's what was said in the paper."

Bishop gave an annoyed sigh and turned to Twilight, "looks like that tour will have to be postponed a day or two."

"That's okay, I will be in town for a few days don't worry," she smiled.

Bishop smiled back, only a few days.... He shook that thought from his mind before turning to their host, "thank you, Niccolo. I'm glad I found out now and not when I was out getting caught in a downpour."

"No problem, my friend. You would have done the same for me as well, good day to you both as I must head home and prepare for the coming storm." He turned and headed back inside the cafe.

"Well, if you have no objections I believe heading back to my apartment would be the best plan of action."

"Sure, but this storm has you a little on edge, care to explain?"

"Well, I think it would be best if you saw for yourself. The thunderstorms here aren't exactly minor by any normal standards." She gave him a confused look as he stepped away from the table and headed back, but followed him regardless. "Power is probably gonna go out during the storm," he explained as he walked down the street.

"Really? Does that happen often?"

"Happens during most storms, most of the time the citizens have at least a few days prior to get ready for them. I don't know why they would be authorized to pull one out of the blue like this."

The rest of the journey was silent, any other time would have been fine. But why now!? Why would they plan to pull a random storm today of all days?

Bishop was beginning to sweat a little, enough for Twilight to notice. "Are you sure everything's okay? You seem a little nervous?"

He took a deep breathe, calm down, no need to get her worried about it, everything's going to be fine. "Yeah, I just hate storms, especially these ones."

A grin grew across Twilight's face, "you're afraid of thunderstorms aren't you?"

"Wha- n-no I'm not!" Okay, not helping my case here. Why am I so tongue tied?

She couldn't help laughing, "you're so cute when you're flustered."

He was about to retort before he realized something, did she just call me... cute? That thought was trapped in his head until they made it to his home. "Do you want to take the elevator, the or stairs?"

Twilight contemplated for a moment, "can we take the elevator? Five floors is a bit of a climb for me."

He pushed the call button without a moment of hesitation, a minute or two later the doors opened with a loud ding! "After you madam."

"Why thank you good sir," she walked into the elevator. He followed and pushed the button for the fifth floor.

With a slight jerk, the metal box slid up the shaft to the fifth floor and opened. Bishop exited first to make sure that they got to the right apartment. He led her inside and closed the door behind her, "make yourself comfortable, I need to take care of a few things."

She sat down on the couch and relaxed, while her host took a look at his home. This place is in such disarray, and she had to have noticed by now! He started going around sprucing the place up some, cleaning his kitchen up and putting his bedroom in a state of order.

Twilight watched him with curiosity, "are you doing all this for the thunderstorm, or me?"

He felt a little hot under the collar and cleared his throat. "Well..." what do I say? What can I say? I'm pretty sure she got me either way. "You, I don't think the storm would really care about the state of my home." He tried to play it off with a joke.

"Probably not," she laughed a little. "But you don't have to go through the trouble, my home usually looks ten times worse than this."

"Still, I should have picked this place up earlier." I have no idea why I would be so concerned about.... Wait a minute, embarrassed about her seeing my home slightly disorganized, suddenly becoming worried about her availability when she talks about other stallions and becoming saddened thinking about her leaving so soon... well it's official I have a crush on Twilight Sparkle.

"Don't go doing all of that for my sake, it's fine."

"You sure? It's no trouble." Okay, what do I do now? Do I tell her? I can't hide it for too long, but how will she react?

"I'm sure, come sit down and relax." She patted the seat next to her and gestured for him to come over.

"Okay," he took the seat next to her and looked out the window. The clouds were covering the sky with a dismal shade of grey, the tree branches started catching small gusts. The calm before the storm no doubt...

"Personally, I preferred the clear blue skies with a gentle breeze," Twilight smiled.

"Certainly better than this weather... I feel I need to apologize," he leaned forward and looked down at the floor, "I should have seen this coming or something and prepared for it."

"Bishop, don't be, it's not exactly something you control or could have known about ahead of time."

"I guess you're right... but still," he couldn't look up from the floor.

"Bishop, please don't even think you had anything to do with this," he didn't move, "look at me."

He pulled his eyes away and did as she asked, those eyes of hers, like amethyst gems.

"Don't you dare blame yourself, I won't let you mope around here about it. I won't."

"Okay," he sat back up.

"Good, now I have a pillow," she put her head on his shoulder.

"Wait, you said that just to get to use my shoulder as a headrest?"

"No, it's just a bonus. Getting you to stop moping was the only real goal."

He slipped his arm behind her rubbed her shoulder, "okay, I won't mope around you then."

"Good, I hate seeing my friends in such a sad mood." Friend, huh, I never thought that word could simultaneously bring happiness and sadness.

The two sat together for some time in silence, until the first roar of thunder rolled across the landscape. Well, here it comes...

Is the Fourth Time Lucky?

Bishop awoke to a scroll materializing above him and landing on his head. Why would Twilight's friend send a letter now? He looked at his replacement clock, it's not even six yet! He unrolled the piece of parchment, it read:

Dear all employees,

Due to the damaged transformer from yesterday's storm, the Institute will be closed until tomorrow. For now, enjoy this day off and be ready for work tomorrow.

Sincerely, Limitless Mana

He chuckled softly. Two days off? But my birthday was six months ago! An idea struck him as he tiptoed across the hall into the office, careful not to wake Twilight. He placed a piece of parchment on the desk and took his ink tipped quill.

Dear Limitless Mana,

I would like to use four of my vacation days for tomorrow and the three days after that. I apologize if this creates complications at the office but a personal matter arose. Thank you in advance.

Sincerely, Bright Bishop

He slipped back through the hallway and sent the letter through the window. With sleep eluding him, a cup of coffee sounded excellent. He pulled the pot from the maker and filled a mug generously before going to take a sip. Just as he did, a scroll landed in the mug, splashing steaming hot coffee on his face.

"Ah! Sweet Celestia you are kidding me!?" He cursed rubbing his cheek with a dish rag, suddenly realizing how loudly he was cursing he covered his mouth before removing the scroll from his mug. It read, barely, through the coffee stains:

Dear Mr. Bishop,

Don't worry about your vacation days you haven't used more than three in your entire career here. Plus, word around the office is that you met a mare from out of town. You can keep your days so long as I don't have to hear about any 'conquests' from her visit. See you in a few days.

Sincerely, Limitless Mana

P.S. I will have to keep sending Boyle on coffee runs if he keeps coming back with such juicy tales.

"Bishop? I heard shouting, are you okay?" Twilight asked standing in the kitchen and rubbing her eyes.

"Yeah, I'm fine I just had a scroll land in my coffee and had it splashed on my face," he explained.

"Oh, that sounds a little unpleasant. What did the letter say?"

"Three things: First, a blown transformer cancelled work at the office today. Second, confirming that I have the next four days off, apparently without using my vacation days. Also, it gave me another reason to dislike Boyle."

"Why did you take the next four days off?"

"Because, I want to spend those days with you." He smiled.

Twilight couldn't help blushing, "Y-you didn't need to do that."

"You say that like it would have affected my decision at all." He took a sip of his coffee and put it on the counter. "Besides, working vs. spending time with you... not exactly a difficult decision."

"Wait, you said four days? I'm only here for three days."

"The fourth day is a surprise." He put his bedding back in the closet.

"Really? What are you planning?"

"A surprise," he answered playfully.

"Can't you tell me, pleeaaaaase?" Bishop was feeling déjà vu from the night before.

"Not this time Twilight." He dropped his playful tone.

"Aww," she pouted.

"I promise that it will be worth waiting for." He gave her a playful kiss on her cheek.

"So Bishop, does that mean we are officially colt friend and filly friend?"

"I suppose."

"My first colt friend..." she started laughing. "Better late than never."

"I promise I will be the best colt friend I can." He sat down on the couch and gestured for her to join him.

"I know you will," she sat down next to him. "After everything that you did for me as an acquaintance, I'm excited to see what you will do for me as a filly friend."

"I'll make sure not to disappoint," he promised, "starting with dinner tonight."

"When do you want to go to Niccolo's for dinner?"

Bishop glanced at the clock, which read 6:45. "About twelve hours from now. I want to make sure this relationship get's a good start."

Twilight pondered for a moment. "Do you mind if I ask you a personal question?"

"Not at all my dear, ask away." Why did she ask permission?

"How may filly friends have you had?" Oh, well, I'm going to start crying in a minute.

"Well, technically, I had three, but those mares, I wouldn't really count," he explained. "In my mind, you would be the first true filly friend of mine." Three leeches upon my life.

"Why do you not count those three?"

"They had manipulated me, using me to either be more popular or try to get to spend all of my bits on them."

"How do you know that they were only after what you had?"

"The first two broke up with me after about a month because they got all that I was going to give them, and decided to see if someone else would give them more." He paused for a moment, "The third one... she was the worst."

"What did she do?"

"She... took my money, and she took my heart. Before she smashed my heart into as many tiny fragments she could." He couldn't hold back the floodgates behind his eyes.

"I didn't know it was such an emotional topic... I'm sorry I brought it up. Do you want to talk about it?"

"Yeah, you should know about it." Bishop took a deep breathe as preparation.

"Her name was Ravishing Ruby. She was the only one I could say that I really loved back then. I spent half of my junior year of college with her. After my first two college relationships, I was worried that I wasn't going to find someone to actually share my life with. Then I met her. She was very popular in Canterlot and was one of the most attractive mares there. One day, on a whim I decided to ask her out. To my surprise she said yes and I felt that she was going to be different." He started to get a little choked up, having given up on fighting the tears.

"U-unfortunately I was right. If love can make one blind, then I might as well have had no eyes. I always planned the most extravagant dates, bought expensive gifts for her and did my best to please her. After six months, I decided to open my heart fully to her. I set up a very special and private date for us, and at the end of the date I told her that I loved her. I told her that I wanted to spend my life with her, that she was the only one for me.

"I was so blind! So stupid! She didn't love me, she loved my money! After I told her how I felt, she laughed. She just laughed at me! She used me; she played me like a violin. When she was done, she cut my strings and left me sitting there. I spent every bit I had on her, did everything she wanted and in the end... it was all fake. But life wasn't done beating me down yet.

"I had to call home, and ask for money. My father was absolutely furious, and told me I had to earn it. So, I had to work a job, as well as work on my studies. To be honest, I'm probably lucky that I can't drink alcohol. Otherwise, I might have drank myself out of my depression, and right into an early grave. My fate was to shut out the rest of the world. Work, school and sleep were my main focus until I graduated. Graduation was the thing that snapped me out of my depression and got me back on my feet, got me out of my abyss and gave me a chance to be hopeful about the future. That hope paid off when I got this high paying job doing something I can enjoy."

He wiped the tears from his eyes. Well, that's my skeleton out of that closet.

The two sat on the couch in silence for a few moments. Twilight decided to speak up, "Bishop, I will never do anything like that to you, I promise."

"I know you won't Twilight, you are too kind, too pure of heart to something that terrible."

She wrapped her hooves around him and said, "I'm just me."

He accepted her embrace. "That's why I like you so much. I could tell you weren't like the normal mares in this city since I met you at the bar."

"I'm glad that I made a good first impression, despite my not-so-cheery mood."

"Well, to be honest, your saddened mood was what made me want to talk to you," he admitted.

"You weren't thinking about my looks or anything?"

"Not really; it looked like you needed someone to talk to. I felt that it could be me. N-not that you aren't attractive or anything like that! It's just-" He was silenced by a hoof placed over his lips.

"I'm just going to stop you there. You know, before something stupid gets said." Bishop nodded. "Okay, now you have done a lot for me since I came here. So now, it's my turn to do something for you." Twilight released her grip and walked into the kitchen.

What is she doing? Breakfast maybe? He sat quietly waiting to see what his guest was planning. A loud crash emanated from the kitchen and without a thought, Bishop rushed in to see if she was okay. He saw that she looked fine, and the only thing out of place was a bowl broken against the wood flooring.

"Are you okay?" He asked.

Twilight became a little flush. "Yeah, sorry I just, sorta, dropped a bowl. I'm really sorry."

A broom and dust pan floated from the corner of the room in a grey aura. "Don't worry about the bowl. I'm just glad that you're okay. What made you drop it?"

"I, uh, got a little startled... when I closed the... cupboard? Yeah... yeah, it closed a little harder than I expected." Okay, not exactly a composed answer. So what really happened?

"Really?" He gave her a look of pure skepticism as the shards were swept up. "Do you want to tell me what actually happened?"

"Well, I, uh... you see... I lost my concentration for a moment." Her face maintained a red glow.

"From what?" He dropped the shards in the trash can. It made a distinct clang! as it landed on the clock from the day before.

"Well... a-a surprising thought."

"Do you want to talk about this thought you had?"

"...Not really."

"Alright then, what were you doing with the bowl before that thought broke your concentration?"

"Well, I was going to make us some breakfast..."

"I can do that, why don't you just relax? I'll tell you when it's ready."

"But," Twilight protested, "I wanted to repay you for all of the things you've done for me these past few days!"

"May I suggest a compromise, then? Like, we both work together?"

She pondered on the prospect for a moment. "I guess..."

"Come on, it'll be fun. What do you want to eat?"

"Some eggs, toast and maybe some hash browns."

"Sounds perfect to me, I should have everything we need here. What do you want to make?"

"I can cook the eggs and toast. Can you handle the hash browns?"

"I think I'm capable." I've done this before; just have to make sure I don't over do it like last time.

The two maneuvered around each other and worked well together. It was as if there was a sort of chemistry between them. After some time of slaving over the hot stove, they had a well prepared meal sitting before them.

"Well, it looks like we can take turns cooking." Bishop commented, staring at the tantalizing meal.

"If things get that far, definitely."

The two sat at a small table set up in the kitchen. The meal was excellent, the toast was perfectly crispy. The eggs were done over easy and the hash browns were golden brown. The couple ate in silence, simply enjoying the fruits of their labors.

After breakfast, they washed the dishes together before returning to the living room. Bishop sat down on the far right side of the couch, as he usually did. Twilight sat on the far left side of it, leaving a large gap between them.

"Do I need to shower that badly?"

"What? No, no you're fine. I don't want you to think I'm too clingy." Yeah it's true. She's never been in a relationship before.

"Twilight, being in a relationship can be trial and error," Bishop explained. "Sometimes, you just have to act on your feelings. If you do something I don't really care for, I will tell you in the nicest way possible. You do the same for me, it's just how it works."

"Really?"

"Yes, really."

Hesitantly, Twilight slid over and closed the gap between them. "Whoa, Twilight, I need my space." She slid away immediately. "I'm kidding," he pulled her back beside himself.

"Please don't kid around like that. It feels like you're making fun of me..."

"...I'm sorry, I didn't mean anything by it..."

"I know you don't, but still... I do have doubts sometimes."

"Anyway I can get rid of these doubts?"

"Maybe, but not right now." Why not now?

"Okay, I really don't want to hurt your feelings." He wrapped his hoof around her shoulder.

She said nothing, only resting her head on his shoulder, and falling asleep. She's going to be different. There's no way she's going to break my heart... I guess I'll find out sooner or later starting with Niccolo's tonight.

A "Normal" Family Dinner

How has she been able to sleep for an extra couple hours? "Hey Twilight, wake up. We have to leave in a half hour."

"Hmm... five more minutes..." She groaned.

Bishop gave sigh before standing up off the couch. Twilight's head fell on the arm rest. "Okay, okay, I'm up." She raised her head slowly before slumping off the couch. "You said a half hour?"

"Yep. Do you want to shower before we leave?"

"Sure. Bathroom's on the right, right?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Okay, I'll be quick." She shuffled down the hallway before vanishing from sight. The door shut with a barely audible click.

This will be the first time I will go back to Niccolo's home in at least a year. This will be an interesting little date, to say the least.

Bishop relaxed on the couch and waited for Twilight to be done in the bathroom. She was done in fifteen minutes and left the bathroom, drying her mane with a towel. "That was refreshing, thank you for letting me use your shower."

"No problem. I'm going to take a quick shower and then we'll head out, okay?"

"That works for me," she sat on the couch and continued drying her mane.

He walked into his bathroom and closed the door behind him, expecting the floor to be covered in puddles, but was pleasantly surprised when he noticed how the floor was completely dry. She picks up after herself? Yeah, definitely going to try to make this relationship good for her.

He turned on the water for the shower and stepped inside when the water heated up just enough to burn his skin slightly. Ahh... relaxing heat... He reached for the shelf where a bar of soap sat for him. But the shelf was empty, come on, where is that slippery- His thoughts were interrupted by something slippery coming between his hoof and the floor, causing him to slip and hit the side his head on the wall with an audible thud.

Oh... I guess I found it... He stopped his head from spinning anymore and rose to his hooves again. The bar of soap floated up in a grey aura and was placed on the shelf again. A knock came from the door of the bathroom, "Bishop, are you okay?" Twilight asked.

"Uh, yeah, had a little mishap with the soap, but I'm fine," he explained. "My head's spinning a little, but I'll live."

"You sure?"

"Yes, Twilight, I'm sure. Thank you."

"Okay, I'll be in the living room if you need me."

Bishop shook off his dizziness and got himself cleaned up quickly and hopped out of the shower. He left the bathroom with a cloud of steam and found Twilight sitting outside the door. "The couch might be a little more comfortable than the floor, you know?"

"I wanted to make sure I would be able to help you if you fell again." She replied as she rose to her hooves.

"I don't think a bar of soap could best me twice in one day." He replied, chuckling a little at the idea of being bested by a hygiene product.

"You slipped on a bar of soap?" She asked, a hint of worry in her voice.

"Yeah, it wasn't on the shelf and found its way between my hoof and the floor."

"...I might be responsible for that." She admitted avoiding eye contact with Bishop.

"Twilight, that's like saying you're responsible for gravity. Even if you were responsible, it's not like I could be upset with you." He smiled sincerely, when she finally looked back up at him, she had a small smiling forming on her lips. "Now, we hath better depart, lest we keep our hosts waiting."

"That shall be quite uncouth, let us make haste." She replied, showing up his use of Old Equish.

"After you milady," Bishop bowed allowing his guest to lead.

Twilight rose to her hooves and began walking toward the door with Bishop following close behind her. "How far a journey must we take to reach the domicile of sir Niccolo?"

"This journey shall be a long and arduous one, we shall have to trek a total of three city blocks before we may even set eyes upon our destination. I fear we may not make the trip in less than several minutes," he joked as they traversed down the stair case.

"Aye, a lady in my present demeanor is in no condition to take such a journey," Twilight kept up the act. Neither of them wanted to back down from this little game they had unintentionally began.

"Fear not milady, for I shall carry you if the need doth arise." Bishop replied as they reached the ground floor.

"Oh my, such chivalry," she faux swooned, until she fell too far for her hooves to support. She gave a small squeal before she was surrounded by a grey veil and pulled upright. Her cheeks developed a red blush as she realized what just happened.

"It appears thou has rivalry with gravity, but we simply must depart, now." He bowed his head allowing her to regain the lead as they walked out into the rain soaked city.

"Now what directions must we take to be upon our goal?" Twilight asked with her eyes scanning the cityscape from the street corner, pretending that her embarrassing moment a few seconds ago never occurred. Bishop let her too, at least, for now.

"Okay, you win this round," he admitted defeat. "I can't keep up right now. But, we need to take a right here. Then, go down two blocks and cross the street on the left."

"I bet I'll get there first!" With that she ran off, like a filly in a schoolyard. Oh boy, what did I just sign up for with this one? Bishop gave chase catching up to the mare quickly

The two reached the front door of a large, victorian style home at the same time, slightly winded. The two story house, painted beige with the window trim given a charcoal coat and a similar colored door, was every bit as classy as it's owner.

"This is Niccolo's home?" Twilight asked, in awe at the structure's style and size.

"This is the place," Bishop said. Twilight's jaw definitely dropped a little. "Don't worry, I had the same reaction when I first came here." He knocked on the charcoal door and was greeted by their host.

"Ah, Bishop, Twilight, so glad to have you come and visit." Niccolo stepped back inside allowing the couple to follow. "Dinner will be ready shortly. Until then, please, take a seat in the parlor."

Bishop entered first and took in the interior, no matter how many times he saw it, it was always stunning.

"Caterina, Rosa, come and greet our dinner guests," Niccolo called up the stairs. A moment later two fillies came down, they appeared to be twins. Caterina having her father's black in her coat and her mother's silver in her mane, Rosa seemed to be the opposite, having a silver coat and black mane.

"Good evening Mr. Bishop, Ms. Sparkle," the two greeted. How they managed to do that at the same time was still beyond him.

"Good evening ladies," Bishop replied.

"A pleasure to meet you both," Twilight extended her hoof.

The two fillies looked at each other for a moment, before Rosa extended her own and shook hooves with Twilight. Caterina followed suit, a little uneasy about the act.

The five each found a seat in the parlor, Twilight and Bishop shared a love seat and Niccolo and his daughters took a couch on the opposite side of the room.

"So, how have you two been?" Niccolo inquired. "Doesn't look like the storm shook you up too much." He chuckled lightly, knowing all too well about Bishop's fear.

"Not really," Bishop pulled Twilight close. "Thanks to this little mare, here."

She blushed lightly, "I didn't really do anything..."

"Dinner is ready!" A voice called from the kitchen, prompting everyone to rise to their hooves and gather at the dinner table. She carried several pots of food and placed them in the center of the large table. Each pot holding a steaming dish: spaghetti, ravioli, and several other dishes from their homeland. Steaming broccoli, green beans, carrots and potatoes.

"I hope this all wasn't all just for our sake," Bishop stated, eying the tantalizing meal.

"Well, it's been so long since you last visited, I couldn't remember what you liked. So, I made a little of everything."

"I assure that was not necessary," his body turned against him as his stomach gave a longing growl.

"Your stomach says otherwise, dear," she countered. "Help yourself, there's plenty of food for everyone."

"Oh, terribly sorry. Twilight, this is Sofia. Sofia, this is Twilight."

Sofia gave a bow, "An honor to have you in our home Ms. Sparkle."

"No, no just Twilight please. Such formalities are not necessary, Sofia. I'm just a regular unicorn, nothing special."

Oh Twilight, I do so admire that modesty. But at the same time, you sell yourself so short! I really need to try to fix that... With that a plan was set in motion, with Twilight conversing with Sofia, he slipped away to find Niccolo just out of earshot of the conversation.

"Niccolo, does the owner of The Evening Sun still owe you that favor?"

The black stallion raised an eyebrow at the inquiry, "After pulling a triple shift for him last Hearts and Hooves Day for him, I have made three dates with no reservation whatsoever and he still thinks he owes me. Why do you ask?"

"Do you think I could reserve a section of the restaurant tomorrow night?"

Niccolo's jaw dropped, "You can't be serious!? An entire section!? With a day's notice!? Why would you make such a... this is for Twilight isn't it?"

"Yes it is, I just want you to try. I'll pay for it, money is no object here, but I need you to call in that favor to make it possible."

"You're serious? You know how much he's going to ask for! You seriously can afford that? She really means that much to you?"

"I haven't actually dated anyone since my heartbreak in college. I seriously gave up on love a long time ago. Then she shows up in town out of the blue, and after she stuck with me despite my fear... She really means that much, if not that then more. Besides, those bits are just burning a whole in my pocket anyway." He wiped a tear from his eye.

"There's no getting through that thick skull of yours this time is there?" He joked.

"Not this time, so will you do it?"

"I'm gonna really miss not having to make reservations," he sighed. "But this is more important than a minor convenience. I'll do it, you've down your share of favors for me over the years."

"After this, consider me in your debt. I probably am asking too much to be considered even."

"Nonsense, we're even now. At least, until I need your assistance again."

"Ahem, are you two going to be eating tonight?" Sofia inquired. "I slaved over a hot stove all day and you haven't even sat down yet!"

"Sorry dear, we were just having a discussion," Niccolo replied as he sat down at the head of the table, taking a generous helping of most everything at the table. Bishop followed his lead, taking a seat next to Twilight and hoping no one would ask about their 'discussion.'

"So, what were you two talking about?" Twilight asked, dashing Bishop's hopes of no one asking.

"Uhh, just some things about work, things I can't discuss openly." He wore a small smile, technically, it's not lying, right?

"Oh, okay." She returned to her plate full of food. "Can I find out later, or is it a 'need to know' kind of thing?"

"It's a need to know basis for now, but the moment I can I'll tell you," he promised.

"Don't worry, I don't need to know," she turned to Niccolo at the head of the table. "If you don't mind me asking, are you from Equestria? I don't mean to be rude, but I've never seen this kind of cuisine before."

The stallion chuckled a little, "Ms. Sparkle, don't worry, you are not the first to ask. And you will certainly won't be the last, either. Sofia and I came from a state of Equestria on the southern border, called Italia. The customs there are, a bit different from the rest of the land."

He gestured to the dishes in front of them, "Each dish is a traditional item, and you may have noticed some meat in a couple of dishes..."

"Actually dear," his wife corrected. "I made things vegetarian this time for our guests. Since last time, Bishop nearly toppled over when he found out."

Niccolo took a look at the food on his plate, indeed, no meat. He started laughing, "Well, never mind about that then, but anyway... The customs of our homeland are a bit unique: Meat is eaten as well as greens, making us omnivores, another thing is our names. Everywhere else, the parent decides a child's name based on appearance and family titles. In Italia, the tradition is to give our children a unique name as well as a surname. Being very old fashion, Sofia and I continued the tradition here with Caterina and Rosa. That's really all that there is to be known."

Twilight took in everything she had just learned and had a look of deep thought, possibly cataloging the information for later use. "I see, my apologies but in my years of study, I've never come across a land by that name."

"Not that surprising, it's not exactly an important part of the country. Just a small place where ponies developed a different way of life," the dark stallion explained. "But enough about us, please, tell us a little about yourself, Twilight. Just what brought you to the city?"

"Oh, well I came here to attend a lecture on spell theory. Of course, by the time I get here I learn that the proctor came down with an illness and had to cancel his lecture. I considered just going home after a day and thought about going to a bar for dinner. And then I met Bishop," she gave him a peck on the cheek. "He was really nice and offered to let me stay at his place for my little vacation here."

Niccolo turned to his friend, a little shocked. "After one night, Bishop?"

"Yes, Niccolo, we couldn't find her hotel," he explained. "I wasn't going to have her sleeping outside and my apartment's big enough for two."

"Bishop..." the host sighed. "I don't know whether I should call that chivalry or stupidity, but either way, it was a good call."

The white stallion smiled, "I know."

The rest of the dinner was spent having Rosa and Caterina asking the two about magic and how to improve their own ability with it. After dessert, the family waved the couple off as they left.

"That was a fun night," Bishop commented.

"It was a lot of fun," Twilight replied. "You go there often?"

"When I'm not distracted with work... and I have a beautiful date to accompany me," he added.

"Oh, so this was your first time, then?" She joked.

"Oh! Your words act as daggers," he grabbed his chest for emphasis before laughing.

"Come on Mr. Chivalry," she yawned loudly, "It's not polite to keep a lady out so late."

"Of course, milady."

The two slipped through the empty streets, lit mostly by lamp posts and Luna's moon and stars high in the night sky. Upon reaching the stairs, Twilight was about finished.

"Can you make it?"

"Maybe in a minute, I just need to lay me head for a moment." She rested her head on the first step and gave another yawn.

Bishop took her in his grey aura and put her on his back, "Come on Ms. Magic, I think I hear a bed calling your name."

She said nothing, only wrapping her hooves around his neck. By the second flight, she was using his mane as a pillow and was presumably out cold. Her carrier slipped through the door silently before putting her on the bed and pulling the covers up to her chin and gave her a kiss on the forehead before getting his bedding and slipping into unconsciousness on the couch...

Author's Note

This took way too long for you guys and I'm really sorry. Life just took my productivity and my creativity and locked them in a shed for a while. Don't worry, the chainsaw was only used to break them out. This was a pretty mental block chapter so please tell me if I did something dumb so I don't repeat it later. Thanks for the support so far.

Sincerely, Silent Sir.

The Grand Date

Today is the day! I’d better check with Niccolo and pay for the reservation. Bishop sat up and got off the couch. Following the usual routine, he put a pot of coffee on and waited for his guest to wake up. Like with the other days, that didn't take long; she was up about ten minutes after he was—just in time to get a fresh cup of coffee.

"Morning, sleepyhead."

"Morning," she said through a loud yawn.

"Sounds like someone could use a cup of joe."

"Yes, that sounds wonderful."

A full cup floated in front of her. She dropped a cube of sugar in and stirred for a minute before taking a sip. "I love the taste of this coffee."

"You can take some home with you, if you like. I have plenty of it."

"Oh no, I couldn't possibly take something like that home with me."

"I insist." He pulled a medium sized tin out of one of his cupboards.

"Are you sure?"

"Absolutely. I can always get more."

"Well... okay." She carried it into the bedroom to put it with the rest of her things before returning to the kitchen.

"So, what do you want from the cafe this morning?" Bishop asked.

"I can order it myself, Bishop." She began to walk to the door.

"Actually, I wanted to eat here this morning. You know, a change of pace from the past few days."

"Well, it would be nice. And we can always go and get lunch or dinner." She sat down on the couch.

"Exactly. Now, what would the lovely lady like this morning?"

"Hmm, how about an egg and cheese croissant?"

"My, my; a lady with fine taste. I shall, right away."

"Please, do make haste."

"Of course, Milady."

Bishop left the apartment with a bag full of bits and high hopes for the night to come. He walked quickly to his favorite cafe and was greeted by his favorite waiter.

"Ah, Bishop, I hope last night was enjoyable for Twilight and yourself. Speaking of which, I notice you are dining alone. Did something happen?" The server asked out of concern.

"Oh no, Niccolo, I just offered to go on a breakfast run for us. And last night was most pleasant, thank you."

"Ah, excellent news. So what can I get for you two this morning?"

"An egg and cheese croissant and a Belgium waffle. Also, an update on that reservation."

"I'm still going to call you crazy, but yes, a section will be reserved entirely for you two. Sofia was commenting on how romantic the gesture is. The cost isn't nearly as much as I thought it would be, but its still a lot."

"Money is no object here, but that is still good news. How long before the food is ready?"

"About ten minutes."

"Ah, excellent. I will return shortly."

"I will be here."

Bishop began to walk away, but looked back. "Niccolo?"

"Yes?"

"Thanks, for everything."

"Don't mention it, Bishop. Now go and win her heart!" he said with gusto.

"I'll do my best!" Bishop answered while trotting off to his next destination, The Evening Sun.

The large restaurant was in the town's center, making it easy to locate and one of the most famous restaurants this side of Canterlot. He walked up to the daunting structure, passing a large line of ponies trying to make reservations. A very well dressed stallion stood in front of the building behind a podium. "Excuse me, sir, but do you have a reservation?"

"Yes, under the name 'Bishop'."

"Bishop... Bishop…" He perused the list to find the name. "Ah... wait, this- this can't be right!"

"Is there a problem!?"

"Well, according to this, you have the entire ballroom reserved. I'm sorry, that's obviously a typo, I will return shortly."

"No, no, that's not a typo." He corrected.

"Sir, you reserved the entire ballroom?" He asked skeptically.

"Yes."

"Alright," the waiter sighed. "I need to speak to the owner about this."

"Oh, that's not necessary, I need to speak to him directly. Can you point me in the right direction?"

"Right now, he's probably talking to the chefs in the kitchen. It's just past the waiting area in the main dining room toward the back."

"Thank you, good sir." Bishop walked inside and followed the directions to hear someone giving a speech in the kitchen.

"You guys are some of the best chefs of Equestria; this has been child's play for some time now. Now let's get out there today and give these ponies the best damn food they could possibly imagine!"

A series of loud cheers followed as a golden yellow stallion with a red mane and tail exited the kitchen.
"Oh, hello, my name is Sunny Day. Can I help you?"

"Yes, I'm a friend of Niccolo."

"Oh, you're Bishop! Pleased to meet you. I must really thank you for choosing this establishment for such an important dinner. Come, we can talk with the manager upstairs." Sunny led the unicorn up a set of stairs from the waiting room to a spacious office with a few chairs and a semi-organized desk. The manager was sitting at the desk preparing for the day skimming through a ledger behind several stacks of paper.

"Oh, Mr. Day! Terribly sorry, I would have gotten things spruced up if I knew you would be up here so early!" She started to remove some of the stacks of paper.

"Relax, Ms. Diner. This is Bishop. He was the one who asked for the ballroom to be reserved," Sunny introduced.

"Mr. Bishop, it is a privilege to have you dining at our establishment. My name is Dashing Diner. I oversee the restaurant for Mr. Day."

"A pleasure to meet you, Ms. Diner. I do apologize for the suddenness of this request. I am actually a little surprised you agreed," Bishop admitted. Gotta love those 'spur of the moment' acts.

"Mr. Bishop, I assure you that it was no issue. We always have a wait list; tonight will be just a little longer, don't worry." Sunny assured.

"Alright, if it's not too much of an imposition. How much do you need from me?" Bishop asked calmly.

"500 bits will be the price for such a request," Ms. Diner replied.

"500 bits? That's ridiculous!" Bishop protested. How could they ask 500 bits for such a request?

"I'm sorry, but we need to cover possible revenue loss," she explained.

"I'm not paying less than a thousand!" Bishop demanded.

"Beg pardon?" Sunny questioned as his jaw dropped.

"To make such a request with a day's notice? I will not pay any less, that would just be unfair to this establishment, and by extension, you."

"I-I assure you sir that is not necessary," the owner stated.

"I'm paying you one thousand bits. Call the difference a donation, I will pay no less. But, if you could remember Niccolo's favor, that would greatly appreciated."

"Mr. Bishop, I... I don't know what to say. Thank you so much!" The owner wrapped his hooves around Bishop in a bone crushing hug. The unicorn just accepted the friendly embrace and prayed he would be able to breathe soon.

"It's... not a problem... now, can I... stop having my... lungs crushed?" he wheezed.

Sunny released him immediately. "Terribly sorry; I guess I got a little carried away there."

"Not… a problem." Bishop caught his breath and tossed a very full pouch to Sunny who was surprised by the weight.

"Well, this is unprecedented. Dashing?"

"Yes, sir."

"Give this gentlecolt the best treatment, as if I myself was eating at that table!"

"O-of course, sir; right away!"

"Good. I'm going to spread this good news around—a little bit extra for everyone's pay checks this week!" Sunny ran down the stairs in excitement.

"She's something special, isn't she?" the manager stated.

"Unbelievably so," Bishop answered.

"Well, she is really lucky. Don't worry, everything will go perfectly," Diner promised.

"Thank you, and have a good day." Bishop took his leave, a wide smile on his face.

Everyone he passed leaving the restaurant thanked him for his generosity with a wide smile on their face. Bishop felt a good helping so many in such a gesture for a wonderful mare as Twilight. News spread quickly as the ponies in line outside shot him an annoyed glance as he passed. He didn't care, though; he was in too good a mood to let anything short of a dragon attack ruin his day. His friend at the cafe took notice of this immediately.

"Well, I take it things are going smoothly," Niccolo stated.

"More than I thought possible!"

"Glad to hear it." He levitated a to-go box from behind the podium. "Enjoy your meal."

"Thanks." Bishop placed a much smaller pouch of bits on the podium. "Also, don't worry about that favor; I have it covered."

"I will keep that in mind, Bishop. Have a pleasant evening."

"You too, my friend, you too."

He walked back to the apartment with a quick pace, not wanting to keep his guest waiting. Upon reaching the apartment, he noticed an unusual grey pegasus walking past him through the door. She appeared to have a lazy eye.

"Good morning," he greeted.

"Hiya. You live here?" the mare replied, with one eye focused on him.

"Yes, I do. I've never seen you around. You new here?"

"Yes, but I'm just delivering a package for my friend."

"Who's your friend?"

"Twilight; Rarity wanted her to get it right away, so I flew it personally."

"Twilight Sparkle?"

"Yep, that's her. She's staying with a guy living here. You know who that is? I never saw him up there; she said he was on a breakfast run."

"Um, that's me, actually. Bishop's the name," he explained.

"Ohhh, nice to meet you. My name is Ditzy, but my friends call me Derpy."

"Pleased to meet you, Ditzy. I hate to cut this conversation short, but I do not wish to keep breakfast waiting."

"No problem. See ya later, Bishop." Ditzy took off into the sky.

Nice mare. He walked up the stairs and unlocked the door to his apartment. When the door opened, he couldn't believe what he saw. Twilight was wearing something that he just made his eyes glued to her. If even wanted to look away, there was no way he would be able to even turn his head.

"Bishop! You weren't supposed to see this yet!" she cried, noticing a complete lack of a response. "It's too much, isn't it? I was afraid of that," she sighed dejectedly and started pacing back and forth.

"Twilight."

"I told Rarity I didn't want it to be too much."

"Twilight."

"I shouldn't have even tried it on."

Bishop gave a heavy sigh, walked up to the pacing mare and held a silencing hoof to her lips. "It's perfect, Twilight. Absolutely perfect."

She pulled away, noticeably blushing. "Really?"

"Yes, that dress is absolutely perfect on you." The silk gave her an elegant figure, the sapphire blue complemented her coat beautifully and the simplicity of the dress went perfectly with her modest personality.

"Are you sure this isn't over doing it? Rarity made me this dress in case we went out to eat somewhere fancy."

"That's very thoughtful of her. I guess we'll have to go out and give you a chance to show off." He smirked.

"We don't have to," she replied, not catching the sarcastic tone.

"Do you want to go someplace fancy for dinner?"

"I wouldn't mind..."

"So, yes?"

"Yes, I would really like to go out tonight."

"Then that's exactly what we're doing." He placed the boxes of food in the kitchen. "Come, let's get some breakfast."

"Okay, just let me take this off. Don't want to stain it."

"Aww, but I love seeing you in it," Bishop pouted.

"You'll see me in it tonight, but no sooner," Twilight teased.

***

"You ready?" Bishop asked.

"If you are... hold on, your tie isn't straight." Said tie was gripped in a magenta aura and straightened.

"Thanks." He opened the door. "After you."

"My, such etiquette." She walked out the door with a well dressed stallion in tow.

As they walked down the street, wandering eyes followed them— some in envy, others in curiosity, and a handful in joy for the couple.

"So where are we going?"

"Just a little place called the Evening Sun."

"The Evening Sun?! The most prestigious restaurant in the city, the Evening Sun?!"

"That's the one."

"When did you plan this? This couldn't be planned today, you must have planned ahead of time!"

"Nope, did it this morning."

"How!?"

"The owner owed Niccolo a favor. He let me call it in."

"Is that what you two were discussing last night?"

"Yep."

"You little liar. You said you were talking about work!"

"We were; Niccolo used to work at the restaurant a few years back. He'll get requested to help with busier nights."

"But wait, if he was working at such a successful place, why is he at a cafe now?"

"Because he'd rather work at his own restaurant."

"Wait, he owns that cafe?!"

"You sound surprised."

"Well, that's a little bit of a shock, isn't it?"

"I suppose, but the guy owns a large house in the town center. That money has to come from somewhere."

"Okay, we're veering off topic a little. So let me get this straight: you reserved a table this morning, just like that?"

"Well, not exactly."

"Bishop, what do you mean 'not exactly'?"

"It's a surprise." Twilight had a concerned look on her face. "Twilight, do you trust me?"

"Of course."

"Then I promise you will never forget this night. It will be the best first date for both of us."

"Well then, what are we waiting for?" She started to run, making it a race and laughing the entire way.

"That's not fair!" Bishop gave chase; nervous energy had been building inside him since he woke up that morning. This was the perfect excuse to burn that energy.

Twilight won by a small margin, resting at a street corner. The two caught their breath and rounded the corner calmly to view their destination. It was a simple building, white marble exterior in the shape of a cube. The words “Morning Sun” were an orange color with spotlights making them much more visible in the late evening light. A line extended from the entrance down the street a short ways. The pair walked calmly past the line up to the greeter.

"Ah, Mr. Bishop, your table is ready. Mr. Day is waiting for you inside."

"Thank you, sir."

"No, thank you."

The two walked in the door, to see Sunny waiting for them. "Ah, Mr. Bishop and Ms...?"

"Twilight."

"I am honored to have you here. Come, let me show you to your table."

He led the two through the main dining room. It had a beige coat covering the walls with dark red table covers. The doors to the ballroom are closed for some reason, Bishop noted.

"I do hope you enjoy your meal." Sunny opened the door to allow entry. The room carried a similar atmosphere and appearance as the main dining room. The room had a single table for two while the rest of the room was empty, other than a dance floor at the far end of the room. A grand piano sat next to it with a pony playing a light tune.

"Where are the other tables?" Twilight asked.

"Tonight, they have been removed," Mr. Day explained.

"But, where will the other diners sit in here?" Sunny threw a confused glance at Bishop.

"Um, Twilight, we are going to be the only ones eating in here tonight."

"What?"

"I, uh, reserved the ballroom tonight, just for us," Bishop explained.

"Bishop... you didn't need to do that!"

"I know I didn't, but I wanted to. I wanted to treat you like the really special mare you are."

"I... I don't know what to say..."

"I do. Mr. Day, can we get some menus?"

"Of course; I will be right back." Sunny took his leave.

"Shall we?" Bishop pulled a chair out for his date.

"Y-yes. I still can't believe that this is happening." She sat down and had her chair pushed in before Bishop took his own seat.

"Believe it. I promised this would be a night to remember."

"I... I don't deserve this."

"Shush, I don't want to hear you say that. You do deserve this. You saved this land twice and you still have so much potential to do so much more. If anything, I don't deserve to be on a date with you, no matter how romantic," Bishop admitted.

"Okay, that is absolutely untrue, but can we put the modesty away now? I don't want it getting in the way of this night."

"Of course. You are so lucky I set this up for you," he joked.

"And you are so lucky I decided to come with you," Twilight countered.

"True, I'm a lucky guy."

Sunny re-entered the room with two menus and handed them to the unicorns. "Now, what can I get you to drink?"

"Ice water for me please, no lemon," Bishop answered.

"Hmm, can I get a glass of Chardonnay?"

"Of course, I will return shortly." Sunny took his leave.

"So what are you going to order?" Bishop asked, perusing the menu himself. Let's see, they have... pizza, pastas, hay burgers... everything looks so good.

"Oh, I don't know. I'm thinking this dish called Mostaccolli."

"It looks good, just like everything else on this menu. I might have to join you on that if I can't decide."
Mr. Day returned with the drinks. He placed a large glass of water in front of Bishop. For Twilight, a chalice and a bottle of red wine. "Just say when." He filled the cup about halfway before she gestured that was plenty. "Now, would you like a minute?"

"I'm ready if you are, my dear."

"Oh, okay; I will have this dish here, the mostaccolli?" She pointed to the menu.

"Ah yes, very good, and you sir?"

"I shall have the same."

"Ah, excellent, makes it easier for me to remember. Oh, I forgot the bread and salad, I will be right back!"

"Oh no, that's not necessary," Twilight assured.

"Are you sure? It's no trouble."

"We are fine, thank you," Bishop assured.

"Alright then, I will return with your meals." He took his leave once more.

"So Twilight, can you tell me about your life in Ponyville?"

"Sure, why do you ask?"

"Well, I have received a lovely letter from your friend Rarity, and I met Ditzy when she left the apartment. I'm curious to hear about your other friends at home."

"Hmm, I don't know who to start with."

"Well, how about Rarity? I've had some contact with her already."

"Well, she's a fashion designer, the best one in our town for some time. She designed this dress in one day. She is very classy. She also is a really good friend."

"I imagine."

"Then, there's my friend Fluttershy."

"The model?"

"Yes, although she didn't model for too long. How did you recognize the name?"

"A co-worker has a calendar of her in his cubicle."

"That's... surprising. Make sure she never finds out about that... same goes for Dusk."

"Dusk?"

"He's her fiancé. He moved into town a few months ago. He has a... troubled past that he needed to face. He is a really nice guy, though." Bishop nodded in understanding, sipping his glass.

"Then there's Applejack. Her family owns an apple orchard outside of town. She works those fields almost every day. Still, she finds a way to spend time with friends and help out whenever we need it. Pinkie Pie is another one of my best friends; she works at a bake shop in town. She is really energetic and loves parties. Every week it seems like she makes up a new reason to throw a party." She laughed softly, taking a trip down memory lane, no doubt. "And last but not least, there's Rainbow Dash. She heads the weather team in Ponyville—when she's not performing some death-defying stunts across the sky, of course—but she always stays loyal to her friends."

"Sounds like a nice group of friends. You're a lucky lady."

"I know, but you have Niccolo and Jimmy. Both upstanding stallions."

Mr. Day returned with two steaming dishes and laid them in front of them. Noodles baked in a tomato sauce covered in a layer of melted cheese. The aroma was heavenly as it wafted through the air, gracing all it passed with watering mouths.

"That smells delicious," Twilight commented.

"It really does," Bishop agreed.

"Enjoy your meal. Can I get you anything else?"

"No, thank you."

"I'm fine as well."

"Then I will check up on you later this evening." Sunny left once more.

The two ate in comfortable silence, simply enjoying each others' company. Music filled the room, the food tantalizing their taste buds and the atmosphere was amazing. Bishop couldn't plan a better night if he wanted to. But he had an extra surprise before the night was up.

"That was fantastic! I don't think that this night could be any better," Twilight sighed contently.

"Really? Not even with a dance?" Bishop stood up, extending a hoof to her with a grin.

"I... Of course," she accepted and walked with him to the empty dance floor.

Bishop took the lead, spinning with Twilight in a circle, but her movements were rigid, and her gaze was more focused on the floor than anything else.

"Relax, Twilight; you don't need to stare at your hooves all night."

"Was it that obvious?"

"A little. Don't worry; just relax and let your body take over. I promise you won't fall."

Twilight took a deep breath. "Okay, I trust you."

The pair started again, only the two moved with more fluidity. The start was still a little shaky, since Twilight stepped on Bishop's hooves a couple times, but the pain was more than worth it to see that beautiful smile. After a few minutes, they got into a rhythm. They moved as one for what felt like hours before Bishop felt they had been out late enough.

"As much as I would love to dance the night away, I think it may be time to take our leave."

"Can we do one more thing?" she whispered.

"Sure."

Twilight leaned in and planted a kiss lightly on his lips. Bishop's brain stalled for a moment, registering how big an impact one gesture could have on him. He snapped back to reality when he heard the sound of the mare giggling in front of him.

"I hope I wasn't too forward in doing that." His response was returning the gesture, both blushing afterward.

"No, you weren't. Now, would the lovely lady like to return home?"

"Yes, I would."

The two walked back to the table to find the table clear of dishes and a note.

Bishop & Twilight,

I took the liberty of taking care of everything while you two enjoyed the night. No payment will be necessary and I hope you both have a wonderful night. I hope you will consider this establishment again for another dinner.
Sincerely, Sunny Day.

With a shrug, Bishop led his date out of the restaurant gathering a number of glances from ponies at tables and wait staff. Twilight gave a yawn and began to slow her pace as they made it to the street.

"Tired?"

"A little..." she spoke through another yawn.

"I can carry you, if you want."

"No... no, I don't want to... impose."

"I insist; it's just a few blocks."

"Well, okay."

With that, Bishop began to carry his marefriend back to his apartment. She fell asleep moments after situating herself (as much as one could) while being carried. Once he reached the apartment, she began to stir. When he laid her in the bed, he pulled the covers to her chin and kissed her gently on the cheek. Just before he left the room, Twilight woke up.

"Bishop?"

"Yes?"

"I love you."

"I love you, too, Twilight. Sweet dreams."

He walked over to the couch with a smile on his face. He didn't care about getting a pillow or blanket. The world was too perfect for him to worry about such things. He just fell asleep with those three little words playing through his head. I love her.

Goodbyes aren't Forever

"Bishop! Bishop wake up!" Twilight shouted.

"Huh? Is something wrong?" he asked groggily.

"Something is very wrong! We're wasting daylight!" She tried pulling him off the couch like a filly on the morning of hearts warming eve.

"What time is it?" the couch potato groaned.

"It's already seven!"

"Seven PM?"

"No silly, seven AM!" She is so lucky she's really cute.

"Can I sleep a little longer?" he asked hopefully.

He felt the couch vanish beneath him before realizing he was lifted three feet off the ground. His request had been denied. "Okay, I'm up. Can I get down now?" He felt the world return beneath him and threw off his blanket as he stood up.

"Sooo, what do you have planned for us today?" Twilight asked excitedly.

"Umm, nothing," he answered simply, rubbing the back of his neck.

"What?"

"Well, I thought that after the plans, a day to relax would be a pleasant change of pace."

"But, that was so amazing, last night was so wonderful! I thought you would have something set up for today, too."

"Twilight, if I did something amazing everyday, it would start getting predictable very quickly, wouldn't it?"

"I guess it would." She sighed.

"Besides, my feet are a little sore after last night," Bishop admitted, sitting back down.

"Oh right, sorry about that," Twilight smile sheepishly.

"Hey, it was worth to see you smile so beautifully."

"I have you to thank for that." She sat down next to him. "In fact, I have a lot to thank you for."

"I didn't do that much."

"Well, let's see. Starting from the beginning, you got that drunk stallion to leave me alone," —she kissed his cheek— "you paid for my meal," —another kiss— "you escorted me to a hotel," —a third kiss— "you let me stay here," —a fourth— "you let me take your bed for the entire week," —a fifth— "you treated me to breakfast, invited me to dinner, twice, and showed me a grand time both times. Need I go on?"

"No, I think that pretty much covers it."

"Oh, I forgot the most important thing!" she gasped.

"Oh yeah? What might that be?" Bishop asked curiously.

Twilight replied by pressing her lips against his softly, heat emanating from her cheeks. "Being one of the best things to happen to me."

"Well, you are the best thing to happen to me," he smiled, "I love you, Twilight."

"I love you, too, Bishop," she rested her head on his shoulder, sighing contently.

"I have an idea, how about we just go out and enjoy the day?"

"What do you mean?"

"We could take a stroll through the park."

"That sounds nice."

"Well, what time are you..." Twilight pushed away before Bishop could finish.

"Tonight," she answered, quietly.

"Hey," —he pulled her close again— "you're going home just a couple hours away, not across the world."

"I know, but, I don't even know when I will see you again." She looked like she was about to start tearing up.

"I do."

"When?" Twilight looked up at him hopefully.

"Oh," Bishop glanced at his hoof as if he had a watch on. "About five days and twelve hours from now," he answered nonchalantly.

"What?" Her eyes widened.

"I will be heading out to Ponyville this Friday," Bishop explained.

"You... you'd do that for me?"

"In a heartbeat," he showed no hesitation in his answer.

"What did I do to deserve someone like you?" she sighed.

"Coming to the city and giving me the chance," he kissed her forehead. "Saving the country a few times didn't hurt, though."

"I wish I came here sooner." Twilight wrapped her hooves around his waist.

"I'm just glad you're here now," Bishop returned her hug.

"I just wish I could stay here..."

"No, don't start that Twilight. You have amazing friends waiting for you back home and I won't let you just leave your whole life behind over me."

"But, how often will I see you?"

"...I don't know. I still have a job that I need to do, but I think I can visit on the weekends. I can't guarantee that I will be there every weekend, but I will try."

"That could work... but I will miss you a lot."

"I will miss you, too, I know it isn't an ideal situation, but we can make it work."

"Maybe, it's just... I've never been in a relationship and long-distance relationships seldom end well."

"It will only be temporary, until one of us comes up with some sort of solution. I have confidence that we can do it," he smiled at her to reinforce his point.

"Yeah... we can figure this out!" Twilight jumped off the couch and disappeared down the hallway. When she returned, she had a massive number of quills and a mile of parchment floating behind her. "Okay, let's get started!"

"Twilight."

"Yes?" She set the materials down on the coffee table and beamed a smile of pure excitement at him. Dear Celestia, what did I just release!?

"We can figure that out later. It will take more than a few hours and I want us to enjoy this day before you need to leave. This is going to be very meticulous to try to find a solution to this problem. Before we have to return to our lives tomorrow, a day to just to enjoy each other's company and relax sounds a bit better, right?"

"I... you're right. I will have plenty of things to do when I return home and this will just be motivation to get those things done."

"Just make sure those other things take priority, okay?"

"Of course, Bishop. Are you suggesting that I will neglect my responsibilities?" she accused.

"What? No, of course not," he defended.

"I never shirk my duties, so don't worry about me." Somehow, that makes me worry.

"Alright, let's put all of those supplies back and have some breakfast."

Twilight returned the parchment and quills to the desk in Bishop's work room, while he went into the kitchen and inspected the pantry and fridge. Based on the food he had, it looked like pancakes would be their breakfast.

"So, what is the chef cooking.up for breakfast?"

"Well... based on the fact I don't keep my home well-stocked, do pancakes sound alright?"

"Nothing sounds better."

"Really? Not even crepes?" Bishop laughed lightly.

"Oh, just make us some pancakes Mr. Comedy."

"That's Mr. Magic." Twilight glared at him for a moment. "What? You set that one up for me."

"Yes, yes I did. Now, can you set up breakfast now?"

That he did, tossing them up in the air from the pan. Had to adjust the flying flapjacks frequently to avoid having them flop on the floor. He tried to make the adjustments as subtle as possible to appear a bit more skillful with cooking. He might have gotten away with it too, if it weren't for one pony.

"-WORST POSSIBLE THING!" A mare screamed from the street below. Said scream decimated Bishop's concentration and caused the pancake he was currently preparing to fly out of the pan. It was on a direct course for Twilight, who was enjoying her stack. Thinking quickly, Bishop created a grey barrier between her and the edible projectile. The projectile hit the barrier and was returned to the pan it flew from, before being placed at the top of a small stack.

"I'll go check downstairs to make sure everything is alright," she announced, making her way out of the apartment quickly before Bishop could reply.

Ahem, way to go brainiac. You assaulted her with a pancake, just let that sink in for a moment. His brain chided, you had to try to be smooth.

Before that train of thought could continue, a knock came from his door. "It's open!" he called. Twilight re-entered, avoiding any eye contact with him. "I'm sorry about that, I lost concentration for a second. Is everything alright outside?"

"Well, uh, that depends..."

"Depends on what?"

"I really hate to ask, but..."

"But?"

"Is it okay if someone joins us for breakfast?"

"Could I get a little more information about this 'someone' before I let them in my home?"

"She's one of my friends from Ponyville."

"Well... sure, it wouldn't sit right to just turn her away after making this trip."

"Thanks Bishop," she walked over to the door. "And also, I'm really sorry." She opened the door and a white flash immediately zipped into the room. It stopped in front of the stallion, revealing that this white flash was a unicorn. They stood a few feet away, two blue eyes attempting to absorb every little detail about him. Their mane and tail were well styled and had a shade of royal blue.

"Uh... hello, my name is Bishop," he greeted. "May I be so bold as to ask who you might be?"

The unicorn began to circle him before replying, like they were examining a cart before deciding to buy it. "My name is Rarity, I was the one who wrote those letters."

"Ah yes, it is good to meet you, Miss Rarity."

She gave no reply, but finished circling him and turned to Twilight, who had taken a seat on the couch. "So, this is him?"

"Rarity, why would I bring you to some random apartment and have some stallion act like Bishop? Yes, this is him."

"There's no need to be so rude about it."

"This coming from the mare who decided to show up unannounced at my coltfriend's home and rate him like they would a dress!" She stood up. "You really couldn't wait for me to come home to start questioning every little detail of my time here?"

"Now Twilight, you and I both know this was bound to happen one way or another ever since you asked me to make you that dress."

"A decision that I'm beginning to regret..." the purple unicorn muttered.

"Okay, may I ask exactly what is going on here?" Bishop asked, standing between the two.

"Nothing worth noting," Rarity answered. "Now, I want to know everything that has happened between you two."

"Well, we were about to eat some breakfast, would you like to eat with us?" he offered.

"Oh no, thank you, I had breakfast already."

"Alright, just tell me if you change your mind," he turned to Twilight. "Would you like to eat out here?"

"If that's alright with you, will you be joining us?"

"Once I finish in the kitchen," he replied. Her plate of food floated lazily out of the kitchen and onto the coffee table. "Bon appetit."

Once in the kitchen, he could pick out bits and pieces of the conversation happening in the other room. Mostly, Rarity's reactions to the tale, especially the laughter that had to have come from his fear of thunderstorms. He sighed heavily, I am never going to hear the end of this, am I? As he left the kitchen with his plate floating above his head, the laughter seemed to stop instantly.

"Oh, Bishop did... did you hear any of that?" Rarity asked.

"I heard you laughing and can assume what it was about."

"I-I have no idea what you mean," she lied, fighting to hold back the smile that was forming.

"Just get it all out now, and please stop trying to deny it. I'd like to think I am smart enough to put two and two together to get four," he stated, stoically.

With that, the white mare starts laughing wildly, if she held back at all it wasn't exactly noticeable. "You're... you're afraid of..."

"Yes, ha ha ha. It's hilarious," he deadpanned, looking over to the other side of the couch to see Twilight snickering.

"I-I'm sorry, it's just infectious," she admitted.

"Well, if it makes you laugh... then I guess it's worth a little grief," he cracked a small smile before joining in the laughter. This lasted for a good five minutes before dying down. He squeezed himself between the two on the couch. "So Rarity, since you know a little bit about me. Why don't you tell me about yourself?"

"Well, I grew up in Ponyville. My parents didn't exactly fit the high society profile so I moved out. I set up a boutique there and have lived there ever since with my best friends. I've become a successful designer and have plenty of clients from all over Equestria. That's all I have to tell." She obviously wanted to hear more about them.

"Interesting," Bishop commented.

"But, back to the topic of you two. Last night; I want to hear from both of you and spare no details," Rarity requested.

The rest of the day was spent discussing each side of the previous night. Rarity was almost crying by the time her curiosity was indeed satisfied. But, the falling sun represented more than just the end of a day, or the end of a week but the end of a week that will not soon be forgotten.

“Come along, dear; we must go. Otherwise we will miss the train back home” Rarity called to Twilight, walking down the street outside the apartments.

“I know,” she called back, before turning to Bishop at the door. “I guess this is goodbye for now,” she sighed solemnly.

“It doesn’t have to be, not yet. We can at least walk to the train station.” Bishop replied.

“Thank you.”

"What kind of coltfriend would I be if I didn't?" he asked.

"A normal one," she answered.

"And who ever said I was normal?" he joked, noticing a little smile creeping on her face.

The two caught up to Rarity and the three of them walked down the street and towards the train station. Twilight rested her head on Bishop’s shoulder. “I’ll miss you,” she whispered to him.

“I’ll miss you more. The apartment will be quiet without you. Heck, the whole city will be quiet without you here.”

After a short eternity, they arrived at the train station. “Time to say goodbye” Bishop said quietly, almost to himself more than the one he was saying goodbye to.

“I don’t want say goodbye either,” Twilight replied.

Rarity noticed see how much this moment was affecting her friend. “I’ll give you two some time,” she stated before disappearing into the train car.

Bishop and Twilight stood there on the platform, both unsure of what to say or do. Eventually, Twilight rushed into Bishops hooves. He held her, never wanting to let go. But like that day, that moment also has to end.

The train whistle blew at a high pitch.

They separated enough to look each other in the eye. “You’ll visit right?” Twilight asked, looking hopefully up into Bishop’s eyes to reconfirm the hope he gave her earlier that day.

“Every weekend. No matter what.” Even if I have to walk the distance with my own four hooves. One final kiss is all they get before Twilight couldn't afford to wait any longer to get on the train.

***

“How did that go?” Rarity asked her friend hesitantly.

“Fine” she said, dejectedly. If I say it enough, maybe it will be true.

“Fine? Twilight, I can tell when you’re lying. How do you feel?”

“Terrible, I can't stand leaving him here. But he said that he will visit every weekend. I know he will.”

“I’m sure he will," Rarity confirmed. "I’m sure he’ll miss you as much as you miss him”

“No, he won’t”

“What makes you say that?”

“He’ll miss me more then I’ll miss him. I have you and the girls and Spike to help keep me occupied. All he has is work and two friends that live in different parts of the city.”

"It will only be five days, Twilight."

"Five days too many..."

***

Bishop walked down the street back to his apartment building. Before entering the building, he looked down the street to the Dragonfire Inn. Maybe some dinner will help, he thought, maybe not. He walked down the street and pushed through the door taking his usual seat, the usual laughter, stories and general good times did nothing to help.

"Mr. Magic, haven't seen you in a few days. I take it Ms. Magic needed some company?" Jimmy laughed lightly, until he realized he was the only one laughing. "Everything alright, Bishop?"

"I would be lying if I said yes. Can I get a beer or something?"

Jimmy was taken aback by the request. "Doesn't alcohol make you puke your guts up or something?"

Bishop didn't answer. "Alright then," he walked into the kitchen and led another pony out. "I need you to handle the bar for a minute, son. I have something to take care of." He walked around the counter and took a seat next to his sulking friend. "Bishop, let's talk out back. A lot less noise there."

Wordlessly, he got up and follows Jimmy through the kitchen and out into the ally. Bishop sat on the steps leading out, while Jimmy leaned against the wall beside the doorway. "Okay, lay it on me. What happened?"

"In a sentence, 'I fell in love' sums it up pretty well."

"Then give me more than a sentence, the new guy might not be experienced but he can hold the fort for a while."

Bishop gave a heavy sigh. "Ms. Magic, that's a cute nickname for her." He was trying to avoid the request.

"Where is she now?"

"Now? She's on a train heading home."

"Okay, now for the hard question, does she love you ba-"

"Yes." Bishop didn't even let him finish the inquiry.

"Well, apparently not as hard as I thought. So, separation issues?"

"Yeah."

"Bishop, love is a crazy and unpredictable thing," Jimmy explained, "but, by Celestia, it's powerful and worth seeking out. Some famous guy said that it was 'better to have loved and lost than not having loved at all'."

"Yeah..."

"Now, when do you plan on seeing her again?"

"What makes you think that I will?"

"You aren't the first guy I talked to about the pain love can inflict. If there was no seeing her again, you would called that famous guy an idiot for believing that." He started to laugh and was relieved to see his friend joining in.

"Well, you're going to need to find someone else to hang out with on the weekends. I'm leaving every Friday and coming back every Sunday, at least until we figure something else out."

"I think I can live with that. Just make sure you send me a wedding invitation."

"You will be one of the first on the list, I promise you that."

"Good, now you gonna have your usual?"

"Actually, I think I'm just gonna head home. I have work in the morning."

"Well then, I will see you tomorrow, my friend."

"Goodnight, Jimmy."

Though, he felt a little better, it was nowhere near enough. Slowly he slumped back to that large building he's called home for the past few years. He walked in and was immediately reduced to the state he was when he watched that train leave the station. Everything in the building reminded him of Twilight. Even the simplest things like the steps was a reminder of the times he carried her up them. The extra tin of coffee he sent her home with, missing from the cabinet. The bed, unmade from her sleeping in it. This is unbearable, I need to get stay somewhere else. At least for tonight, tomorrow I can bury myself in all of the equations and theories I need to.

Heh, I couldn't possibly believe that, no matter how much I want to.

He collapsed onto the couch, his mind refusing any form of peace until he left. He forced himself up and grabbed his alarm clock and walked back down the stairs and onto the street. Of course, even the view of the sun setting fueled his emotions further. It’s twilight now. This is either a sign that things will work, or the world is merely toying with me until I break.

There was only one place he could go. Not that it was much of an improvement but it was better than his home.

After a brisk walk, he found himself in front of the large house with a good number of lights still on.

He walked up to the door and knocked. A few minutes later, Rosa answered the door and became excited. Her excitement was short lived when she saw it was just him.

“Is Niccolo available?”

“Yes he is,” she said in her sweet little voice. “Daddy! Bishop is here!” she shouted in a less than sweet voice.

Niccolo appeared in the doorway, "Bishop? What are you doing here at such a late hour?”

"She left Niccolo, I can't stay there tonight without trying to do something crazy and stupid." He nodded in understanding, and together they walk into his house.

“You can have the guest bedroom.”

“Thank you, my friend, I really appreciate this.”

"Who else would be able to stop you from chasing after her?" he chuckled before leading Bishop into the bedroom.

Bishop just gave a heavy sigh and collapsed onto the bed, placing his alarm clock on the nightstand. Even here, sleep alluded him for a number of hours. But, even when he did obtain it, his dreams refused to give him rest...

Author's Note

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Lonepone for his help in getting this story more readers and helping me finish this chapter.

This is the official 'end' of the story. But I will have a little epilogue to wrap up.

Water & Wine

Bright Bishop is just an ordinary unicorn, not too big or small, not the strongest but at the same time not the weakest, he knows a lot but he knows he doesn't think he knows everything. His coat is a creme color, with a dark grey mane and tail with a spiky style, his cutie mark being a beaker with green liquid inside. He lives in Phillydelphia and has made it his home for the past few years, ever since his first day he's been frequenting the Dragonfire Inn. He doesn't drink though, he tried drinking, once, and that was enough for him, the alcohol most certainly did not agree with him.

The Dragonfire Inn is a one of a kind bar, it's a fusion of old and new, the walls and decor give it an almost medieval time feel, but the bar and tables are stained wood and have a more modern look. A unique look that keeps ponies coming back often, the good drinks and food help business too.

Bishop's been going through such a monotonous lifestyle, get up, go to work, come home and head to the inn if there's time to, head to bed and repeat. He wouldn't complain though, he has a high paying job and a nice apartment close to the town square, his life is going pretty well. Tonight he walks into the same scene at the bar, tables full of ponies laughing and talking with his usual seat open at the bar. And at least he gets a well deserved break from work the next day, first day in a few months he got off.

He sat down and the bartender came up to him, "hey Mr. Magic, the usual?" 'Mr. Magic', a name that he picked up from the previous owner of the bar, the name was used once and then sticks for so many years, he still laughed about it.

"Yeah, thanks Jimmy," he had a glass of water slide across the bar to him and plate with a hay burger with a side of hay fries on it placed in front of him.

Jimmy was the bar's main man, he had a few years on Bishop but he worked at the bar every night, not because he had to but because he enjoys conversing with the patrons. He and Bishop talked almost every time that Bishop came in, one of the few friends that Bishop has in the city, he knew most ponies that go to the bar, but he wouldn't call any of them more than acquaintances.

"The only pony I know that goes to a bar and doesn't get any real drinks," Jimmy laughed before turning to another patron at the counter, "hello Miss, what can I get you?"

"Just a glass of white wine and a menu please," her voice carried a hint of sadness, Jimmy slid a glass of wine her way and handed her a menu, "thank you."

Bishop glanced at her, a unicorn, not unlike himself, she had a light purple coat, a purple mane and tail with two accenting stripes, one pink and the other lavender. Who is that? I've never seen her around before, she might be an out-of-towner. They come around from time to time, only they usually are the happy-go-lucky types, definitely not like her.

Bishop slid his food and drink over to the seat next to the mare, "this seat taken?"

"No, go ahead," she answered, she didn't even look up from her glass of wine.

"Something wrong? I know it's none of my business but you seem a bit down," Bishop asked, he couldn't just leave her sitting there sad and alone.

"Yeah, but I don't really talk to strangers about my problems," she answered.

"Oh, well than allow me to introduce myself I'm-" before he could finish he was cut off by another patron.

"Hey there little lady... what's your name?" The patron slurred, he was pretty drunk, he couldn't stand up straight and the fact he was talking as well as he was, was nothing short of impressive. The mare ignored him, "hey come on now... don't be like that."

Bishop recognized the patron, one of the few ponies there he wasn't too fond of, he never caught the stallion's name and he didn't really care to know. The guy was always trying to pick up mares and when he got shot down, he didn't get the message until someone else intervened, usually with a punch.

"I think she wants to be left alone, how about I get you another beer and you can head back to your buddies over there?" Bishop was never one for fights, so diplomacy was his usual route.

"Sure Mr. Magic... you really are a cool guy," the drunk wandered over to the bar and picked up another bottle and sat back down.

"Thanks, 'Mr. Magic' was it?" The mare asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh, that's a name I picked up when I first moved here, first day in town I decided to check out this bar since it wasn't too far from my apartment. The owner asked me about my job here, I explained that I moved here to work in the Institute of Magic Research and from then on he called me Mr. Magic and it's stuck ever since." He took a gulp of his water, "my real name though, is Bright Bishop, pleased to meet you."

The mare cracked a little smile at this story, "my name is Twilight, a pleasure to meet you."

"So, now that we're not complete strangers, what seems to be troubling you?" He asked.

"I came here for a lecture on specialized magic and spells, but the professor who was going to be giving the lecture came down with an illness and won't be able to do it. I planned to be here for it for a few days and now... I don't know what I'm going to, I might just go home now, but I already spent the bits to come here." She kept her eyes fixated on her glass, which was already half empty.

"Oh yeah, I know the professor who was giving that lecture, he came down with pneumonia not too long ago, but I visited him a few days ago and he's doing a little better now. But if you need something to do... I could show you the town, wouldn't be as interesting as a lecture but it might be fun," Bishop offered.

"I don't know... maybe," she was very uncertain about whether to answer yes or no.

"Well, think about it, I will be here tomorrow at the same time sitting at my usual seat," he pointed to the stool at the end of the bar.

"Okay, I'll think about it," she replied.

Bishop started eating his meal and Twilight ordered the same thing he did, a simple hay burger and some fries, after they sat in silence for a short time he broke it. "So where are you from?"

"Ponyville."

"Sounds like a nice place," he never heard of the town, "is it a small town?"

"Yeah, nice and quiet," Twilight paused, "well most of the time.".

"I could get used to a place like that, Phillydelphia is all well and good but it can be such a noisy place," Bishop explained.

"I noticed, getting off the train here was such a hassle from all the ponies coming and going, how long did you say you've been living here?"

Bishop finished his glass off, "about five years give or take, ever since I got a job here."

"At the Institute of Magic Research, right?"

"Yep, that's the one," he turned to the bartender, "hey Jimmy, can I get a refill?"

"Sure thing," he slid a full glass across the bar to Bishop, "would the miss over there want a refill as well?"

Twilight's glass was almost empty, "I don't think I should, I need to save my bits."

"If money's the issue, I can cover it," Bishop offered.

"No, I can't accept such an offer," she refused.

"Hey Jimmy, put her meal on my bill, I got it," he ignored her protests, Jimmy confirmed his request.

"All right," she sighed, turning to the bartender, "can I get another glass over here?"

Jimmy walked up with a bottle of wine and poured enough to refill her glass, "there you go miss, enjoy."

"Thank you," she turned back to Bishop, "you didn't have to do that, you know."

"I know I didn't have to, but I wouldn't like leaving a pony stuck at a bar tight on bits without trying to help," he replied, sipping his drink.

"So you go to a bar... and drink water?"

"Yes ma'am, I tried drinking once and I learned my body does not like alcohol."

"How so?"

"I had one drink, just one can of beer, and my stomach didn't agree with it... that's when I found out that my body can't handle alcohol, some genetic condition."

"Oh, that's unfortunate."

"Eh, not really, I'm fine with water."

"So why do you come to a place like this?"

"Good food, good friends."

"You haven't really talked to any pony besides myself since I came in here."

"What about our bartender?"

"Is he your friend?"

"Jimmy? Yeah we've been friends since I started coming here, one of the few ponies in this town I can really call a friend."

"Likewise my friend," Jimmy replied obviously eavesdropping on the whole conversation, he turned to Twilight, "Jimmy's the name, been serving the ponies here for seven years, pleased to meet you Ms?"

"Twilight, nice to meet you Jimmy."

"If you need anything don't be afraid to give me a shout," he turned to another patron at the counter.

"He's a nice fellow," Twilight commented.

"Yeah, the guy has the perfect personality for this kind of job."

The rest of the evening was filled with idle conversation to help pass the time, over time Twilight had one glass of wine too many. She was a little... buzzed, when the clock struck eleven, Bishop offered to help her get to her hotel he put a bag full of bits on the counter.

"Thanks for the food Jimmy, see you tomorrow," he waved off to the bartender.

"No doubt Mr. Magic, make sure she gets home alright."

"Of course," he walked out with her, he helped get walk to the hotel she said that she was staying at, they made it there in good time and Bishop walked up to the receptionist at the counter.

"Do you have room for a Twilight Sparkle?" He asked the receptionist.

The receptionist flipped through the ledger and spoke after a moment of searching, "uh... nope, no room for a Twilight here, sorry."

Bishop sighed heavily and turned to Twilight, "looks like you'll be staying at my place."

Twilight giggled with her face fully flushed, he wasn't sure that she was aware what was going on at that point. The two walked a few blocks to Bishop's apartment complex, he remembered that they were looking at a little bit of a climb to the fifth floor since the elevator was shut down after dark. It's a rule the owner set since the thing was always so noisy, so Bishop never minded. He led her up the stairs and made it to his apartment, he flipped a light switch, illuminating the living room, the place was in order at least, he never actually had company before that night.

"Bedroom's down the hall to the left, Bathroom is right across the hall from the bedroom on the right," he explained, "I will be on the couch if you need anything."

She nodded and stumbled a little bit down the hall, Bishop walked to a little closet in the hallway and pulled out a pillow and blanket. He sometimes took the couch if he was too caught up with his work to get in his bed so it was no big issue and he didn't even have to work the next day, which was a bonus. Before going to bed, he threw an ice pack in the freezer, in case Twilight's hangover was a bit stronger than expected.

Bishop got himself comfortable, leaving only his thoughts to distract him, I can't believe I did this inviting a mare to stay at my place! ...But I suppose it's better than her being stuck without a place to stay. Yeah, I did what was best, she will sleep off the wine and will be able to get to her actual hotel and get herself situated here.

An unfamiliar thought crept up on him, she's pretty cute, though.

Oh no, don't start that she's somebody I just met tonight., she doesn't even live in town, she's just visiting.

Still, you never know what could happen.

I'm ignoring these thoughts, but... I guess she's pretty cute, even though she was a little drunk.

He fell asleep with that thought stuck in his mind, he could at least sleep in the next day, he could actually enjoy the fall weather for once.

Turbulence of the Heart and Mind

The rain began to come down, lightly at first then turning into a downpour. The view from the window was completely obscured by a constant wall of water. Every few minutes, a roar of thunder broke through the sound of rain. Keep calm, no need to freak out yet. She probably thinks I'm weak though, a full grown stallion who's still afraid of thunderstorms.

Twilight saw how nervous Bishop was getting, "Are you okay?"

He cleared his throat and maintained his composure. "Yes, I'm just a little uneasy right now."

"You're really afraid of thunderstorms, aren't you?"

His composure faltered a little, "Y-yeah, ever since I was a foal. I just couldn't get over it... and I still can't get over it." A flash of lightning sent a chill down his spine.

"Well, I'm here for you. You're not the only one with fears that seem a bit... unorthodox."

"Really?" His curiosity was piqued, what could she possibly be afraid of?

"Yeah, but can I trust you to keep it a secret?"

"Absolutely." It's not like Jimmy's going to grill me about it.

"Okay, I am really terrified of snakes."

"Snakes?" The most powerful unicorn of our time... is afraid of snakes?

"I can't stand them, they just creep me out too much."

The room was lit up by a bolt of lightning, causing Bishop to flinch slightly, reminding him of his own phobia. "It's an understandable fear, those fangs they have don't exactly make them cute or cuddly."

A roar of thunder made Bishop start to hyperventilate a little. "Stay calm, everything's okay, I'm here for you." Twilight wrapped him in a hug, he managed to keep his body under control.

"Thanks Twilight, I'm glad to have your here..." He hesitantly returned it, should I tell her? Better now than later... "I need to tell you something."

"What?"

"I think I-" he was cut off by a distant boom and the room losing all artificial light, leaving lightning as the only light source. Twilight jumped a little, "It's okay, the power just went out, you're okay. The apartment complex has back-up generators that will kick on in a minute." As if on queue, the power returned.

"When did I become the jumpy one?" She couldn't stop herself from laughing.

Bishop joined in the laughter, "I don't know, but I don't think it matters."

"I think you're right, but I'm glad to see you've relaxed a bit." She pulled away from his grasp. "Didn't you want to tell me something?"

"Uh... yeah, after this storm passes. Would you maybe want to... go out on a date?"

"W-what?" Her eyes grew wide as another flash of lightning momentarily lit the room.

He hesitated for a moment, did she not hear or is she just surprised? "Would you want to go out on a date... with me?"

"I... I don't know what to say..."

"Whatever the answer is, it won't change the fact that you would be staying here or the fact that we can be friends." He did his best to take away the pressure of answering his question.

Twilight took a deep breath, "I don't know, I need to think about it." She moved to the opposite end of the couch.

"Take all the time you need, there's no rush."

There was a deafening silence between the two as the storm continued. Bishop managed to completely shut out the storm by thinking about the question he just asked her. Although, at that time, he'd probably prefer the storm stopping him from focusing on what might happen if Twilight flat out rejects him. Minutes felt like hours and hours felt like days before Twilight broke the silence. "Bishop, I need to know something before I can answer your question."

He turned to face her and asked, "What would that be?"

"Why? Why me? Why, out of all the mares here, you decided to ask me?" Her question perplexed him.

"What do you mean?"

"There have to be mares that are better than me: prettier, smarter, funner." What is she talking about? She can't honestly believe that.

"Twilight, no... in my eyes you are definitely the smartest unicorn around, I won't be convinced otherwise. You can say that you're not pretty, but it would be from your eyes not mine, and in my eyes you are down right beautiful. And after last night, I know you can have at least a little fun. To answer your question, I decided to ask you because, well, you're you. I can't sum it up any better than that, you are so smart, so beautiful and so... amazing. I can't stand the fact that I didn't notice it last night."

Twilight looked away from him, face fully flushed, "I-I'm just a regularly unicorn, I'm not better than any one else."

Bishop was starting to get annoyed by her modesty. "Twilight, you are not 'regular.' Even if such a thing exists as a 'normal unicorn.' You are really special, you are the Element of Magic and Celestia's personal apprentice."

Twilight's expression turned cold as a flash of lightning reinforced her expression, "Is that what this is about? My 'celebrity status' being the only reason you would even ask?"

A facehoof felt appropriate at this moment as he hopped off the couch, "That has nothing to do with any of this! Why would it?! I asked you because I like you! I might even love you, I don't know right now but what I do know is that I want to go out on a date with you!" He realized that his voice was booming more than the storm outside, and took a moment to regain his composure. "I didn't think asking about a date would escalate into me shouting at you, I'm sorry."

Bishop's outburst caught her completely off guard, "You l-love me? Isn't that what you just said?"

"Yeah, that's what I said," he sighed, sitting back down. "I think that I might be falling in love with you... I don't know right now, but the idea wouldn't exactly be farfetched."

Twilight's mouth was agape, her speechlessness spoke volumes. So, did I just ruin this friendship? Probably. He played the worst possible outcome of the situation out in his head over and over:

The two would sit there in awkward silence through the duration of the storm. The second that the storm ended, Twilight would see herself out as if the building was on fire. She would leave and never come back, to see him or the town. His life would be spent reliving and regretting this day and wanting to do anything to turn back the clock and do everything differently...

His heart sank with every passing moment of silence, looking over to see that Twilight wasn't planning on saying anything, comforting or otherwise. Leaving the sound of heavy rain as the world's symphony to his sadness.

Darkness approached and the storm died down, and the rain followed suit. "Looks like it's finally over," Bishop sighed. "So, are you going to leave now?" He waited for the inevitable dagger to stab him in his heart.

"Why would I do that?" His ears perked up at the sound of any words besides 'yes.'

"So, you actually want to stay?" His heart was filled with a renewed sense of hope.

"Well... yes," she closed the distance between them on the couch and put her head on his shoulder. "I mean, what would your friend Niccolo think if you showed up by yourself after going to all of the trouble of inviting me?"

Bishop gave a soft chuckle, "Yeah, that would be a little awkward to explain to his family."

"And besides, I'm curious to see what you're planning for our date." His heart skipped a beat, he looked down at her to see she had a grin on her face.

He couldn't help but smile, "When did you change your mind?"

"Well... I can't really say that I changed my mind. I didn't really decide to say yes or no until a short while ago."

"Okay, then what made you decide to say yes, especially after I started shouting at you?"

"To be honest, I don't blame you for getting a little upset after what I said. You asked if I would go on a date with you, and all I could think is why you would ask me. Then I proceeded to believe that you only asked me because you think I'm famous. When I saw how frustrated you got, I realized how dumb I was."

"What did I say about calling yourself dumb?"

"I said I would try to not call myself that, remember? Anyway, the thing that really influenced my decision was when you said you might be in love with me..." She had a tear in her eye, "No one has ever said that they love me, I've never actually been in a relationship before, or even a date."

"Never?" Bishop was dumbstruck, never been in a relationship? Never been on a date?

Twilight shook her head, "Never, I've always been too focused on my studies to worry about friends, let alone a coltfriend. So I haven't been on any date either..."

"Well, we are definitely going to have to fix that," he grinned.

"I can't wait," she sighed contently.

"Well, I'm sorry to say that you have to," he joked. "I won't be able to set it up until the day after tomorrow."

She gave him a confused look and asked, "Two days?"

"Yes... two whole days, does that sound alright to you?"

"I guess..." she smiled playfully. "But, if that's the case I need to send a letter back home to my friends."

"About what?"

"A surprise," she teased.

"Alright, I've got an office set up at the end of the hall. I have all the things you need in there, just pay no mind to the papers all over the place. I'll take care of that later when you're done."

Twilight looked at him suspiciously before standing up, "Okay, thank you."

She disappeared down the hall, hopefully she doesn't trip on those papers. Oh shoot, some of those aren't meant to be seen yet! Bishop jumped to his feet, wait, calm down, just explain them, she will understand and hopefully keep it a secret.

After a few moments she returned to the living room holding a rolled up scroll in a purple aura, "Where is your mailbox?"

"Are you sending it to another unicorn?" She nodded, "Then I got it I just need to know where the address is."

"Uh, 4512 Stirrup Street?"

"Okay, ready," he took the scroll in a grey aura and walked over to the window and opened it. In a flash the scroll was reduced to a powder and sent out the window.

"Is that a spell?" She asked slightly shocked.

"Yeah, you see it before?"

"Only when I send letters to Princess Celestia," Twilight explained. "And even then I have to have my assistant send and receive letters."

"Huh, interesting I didn't know that Princess Celestia became a part of that test group."

"Test group? Test group for what?"

Oh... crud, others aren't supposed to know about test groups. No point in trying to hide it now, I might as well tell her, maybe I can get her to be a tester too. "Do you promise to keep it a secret?" She nodded. "Okay, the Institute develops new spells and then has employees test them. Many spells go through years of extensive testing before being sent out to the public. Celestia has been known to jump on a few test spells and it doesn't surprise me she took part in that one."

"How many spells are in testing now?"

"To be honest, I don't know. We have hundreds of spells going through their beta stages."

"Wow, but how will my friend be able to send me a letter?"

"Oh, right they don't know the spell," he deadpanned. "What's your friends name?"

"Uh, her name is Rarity."

"Okay, I'll be right back." He walked into his little office and took note of all of the equations and figures littering the walls and floor. He sat down at the desk and placed a piece of parchment in front of him before taking a quill in his grey aura and dipping it in a nearby jar of ink.

He wrote:

Dear Miss Rarity,

My name is Bright Bishop, I am a friend of Twilight's. If you wish to send her a letter, focus on the address 5629 Hoofington Lane in Phillydelphia before using your magic to reduce the letter to ash. I will receive it a moment after you send it, my apologies if a random scroll popping up in front of you is a little distracting.

Sincerely, Bright Bishop

P.S. Don't tell anyone about this spell please, it's supposed to be a secret for about another month. Thank you.

He walked back into the living room as he was rolling up the parchment and sent it out the window as dust. "There, hopefully I will receive a letter from her in a few moments."

"It's that fast?" Twilight asked.

"Yep, hopefully next month it will be released to the public and help allow faster communications." Suddenly, a cloud of dust surrounded his horn and a scroll materialized from the dust. He took the scroll and opened it, it read:

Dear Mr. Bishop

Do not let Twilight read this. I want to take this opportunity to talk to you in private. From Twilight's letter, you two are not 'just friends.' With that in mind, I need you to know a few things: First, she has no experience with romance whatsoever, so you are taking the reigns on this relationship. Second, since you have the reigns, if you hurt her feelings or abuse her trust I will personally go over there and teach you a lesson, along with three or four others. Third, if you plan on having a serious relationship with her, you should meet her friends here in Ponyville. I have no choice but to trust Twilight and, by extension, I have no choice but to trust you. Treat her well, I'll be in touch. Regardless if you want me to or not.

Sincerely, Rarity

P.S. I will keep this spell a secret, you just have to trust me.

P.P.S. Do not even think about reading the next letter I send you.

Bishop gulped, well, extra motivation I guess.

"What does the letter say?" Twilight inquired.

"Well, I'll tell you the first sentence: Do not let Twilight read this. With the 'not' in bold for affect."

"Can I read it?"

"I think Rarity made it clear she didn't want you reading it," Bishop explained.

"Pleeeaaase?" She put on her cutest face to reinforce her plead.

"I-I can't," he tried to look away, but it was just too much for him.

"Please, Mr. Magic?" She turned a simple nickname into a powerful weapon as she backed him against the wall.

"That's just not fair!" Her tactics were too powerful for him to win. "Okay, you win! Just please stop with the assault!"

She took the letter from him and kissed him on the cheek before whispering in his ear, "Thank you."

He felt his cheeks grow warm, "Don't mention it."

Twilight skimmed the letter, "So she develops a crush on Dusk and takes him out of town, but threatens you without a second thought."

"What?" A scroll materialized in front of Bishop and he floated it over to Twilight.

"Nothing just thinking out loud," she took the new letter. "You aren't going to try to read it?"

"No one really sends me letters the express way. It's from your friend Rarity, and she 'asked' me not to read it."

"You aren't even going to try?"

"Nope, I don't feel it's any of my business to know what Rarity wrote. That's between the two of you and it should stay that way unless either of you say otherwise."

Twilight nodded before skimming through the letter, "Bishop, how long does it take for a package to get here from Canterlot?"

"About a day and a half, why do you ask?"

"No reason."

"Alright then," he shrugged. "I think now would be the appropriate time to get some sleep."

She yawned, "I think you might be right. It's my turn to take the couch right?"

"Nope, you have the bed," he answered.

"I can't let you sleep on the couch again," she stated.

"I'm sorry but I'm sleeping here and you should take the empty bed," Bishop suggested as he grabbed his bedding from the hallway closet.

"Fine, good night Bishop." She walked passed him in the hallway and headed into the bedroom.

He threw his pillow and blanket on the couch and proceeded to collapse on it, he was completely drained by the events that transpired over the course of the day. Sleep gripped him the moment his head made contact with the pillow...