Flash walked down the deserted hallway again, the lights glowing brighter than before. He was right; he was in an abandoned castle, the mold on the stones giving off an eerie luminescent glow. He looked around, hoping for Fluttershy to appear. She didn’t, instead another pony did.

          This one had a tan coat, his flank emblazoned with a red phoenix-shaped symbol inside a circle. He had brown eyes, his mane and tail matching colors. His mane was slightly longer then Flashs’, the tail about even. He wore a dark black coat. He pushed his black rimmed glasses up higher on his nose.

“This is a depressing place.” The pony said his voice deep.

“Who the hay are you?” Flash asked. He wondered how another pony could be in his mind.

He smiled. “Sorry, I know this is a private place and everything, but I had to see if it worked.”

“What in the world are you talking about?” Flash asked, completely confused. He noticed that the pony kept staring at his ears, never actually looking him in the eye. Just then, the same yellow red eyes appeared on the ground between them. Flash looked down and sighed. “Hello Discord.”

A frown appeared. “Aw, the game is over and it was just about to get interesting.”

“Interesting how?” Flash asked, starting to get frustrated.

The frown changed to a smile. “Now where’s the fun in that?”

Flash jumped and started kicking at the eyes. “I’m tired of these riddles, why can’t anypony just answer me!” He screamed.

The other pony walked over and gently laid a hoof on Flash’s shoulder. “Now isn’t the time to give in to his taunts. He just wants to cause more chaos.”

Flash glared at the other pony till he removed his hoof. “Who are you and how did you get into my mind?” He asked unusual anger in his voice.

The pony tried to smile. “I’m Alli Ance and I’m testing an experiment for a friend.”

Flash took a deep breath and tried to calm down, knowing his anger wouldn’t help. He stuck out a hoof. “Hello Alli it’s nice to meet you, abet a little awkward. I’m Cloud Flash.”

Alli took the hoof and shook it. “I know who you are, you’re the pony that Princess Celes-”

Discord interrupted. “Silence you stupid pony! You’re going to spoil all the fun. Now get out of here, its cramped enough.” With that Alli seemly vanished.

“What did you do to him?” Flash asked, the anger bubbled to the surface.

“He was going to spoil my fun so I got rid of him.” Discord said with a smile.

Flash seethed at Discord as he wished he could hit him. Flash glanced around, seeing Fluttershy at the end of the hall. “This is all in my head isn’t it? I’ve gone crazy haven’t I?” Flash asked, laughing.

“Everypony is a little crazy; you just gotta know where to push.” Discord said as his grin got bigger.

Flash stared at Discord. “How did you even get inside my head?”

Discord’s grin disappeared into a frown again. “Such a logical question; I hate it. You should accept that weird things happen in Equestria.”

“Yes, but this seems too weird even for Equestria. Why can’t you stop answering me with riddles?”

“Life is a game and what fun if you get the answers without the work?” He winked. “But Flash, learn the rules of the game before you play.”

The hallway started closing in as if sucked together by a black hole. Flash felt pain blossoming in his chest as he was being compressed. This is it.

[....]

He awoke with a start, his eyes snapped open. He glanced around the room and noticed he was lying on his back; only then did he notice Fluttershy. She had his head in her lap and was slowly running her hoof through his short mane. Her eyes were closed and she was crying, a tear hitting him in the face.

“Did I miss something?” He asked. Her eyes flung open, her blue eyes filled with fear. She quickly pulled him into a crushing hug. He gasped for air and managed to pull his face free. “I love you too.” He said.

She bent down and kissed him. He put all his love and affection and pushed back. They broke off the kiss and he laid there, staring into her blue eyes. She had started to cry again.

“What’s wrong?” He asked concerned.

“When I woke up, you weren’t b-b-breathing and when I-I listened to your heart, it wasn’t beating. I didn’t know what to do.” She said her voice thick with emotion.

He frowned and pulled her into a hug. “It’s going to be alright.” He leaned up and gave her a peck on the cheek as he got up. He stretched his hooves.

“What was the dream about, if you don’t mind me asking?” She asked, looking at him with worried eyes.

He sighed. “Discord is back or at least in my head. And I met another pony in there too. It seems I’m going crazy.” He said with a slight laugh.

She stared at him, concern clearly written in her eyes. “What does that mean?” she asked her voice quiet.

“I wish I knew Fluttershy. All we can do now is trust in Princess Celes-” He stopped, the rest of the dream or vision coming back to him.

“What?” She asked, her voice betrayed her panic.

“I remember the other pony; I think his name was Alli or something, saying that Celestia knows who I am before he was interrupted by Discord.” Flash said his mind racing.

“If she knew anything, she would have said something by now.” Fluttershy said.

“How can you be so sure? It looks as if she wants to say something every time we meet. I can feel it.” He said, whirling on Fluttershy, but immediately apologized. “I’m sorry, that came out wrong. I didn’t mean to say that.” He said, putting his head in a hoof. She got off the couch and walked over to him, giving him a hug.

“I know what you meant. It’s alright, I’m here for you.”

He smiled at her. “I don’t know what I would do without you. I’m sorry I snapped, I didn’t mean to.”

“It’s alright, I know you’re under a lot of stress and you didn’t mean it.” She said, holding him in the hug.

“You’re an amazing pony, you know that?” He said with a grin.

She blushed. “No I’m not. I’m just trying to help my coltfriend.” She mumbled.

He laughed, kissing her. “You are and I’ll always tell myself how lucky I am for you to say yes.”

They broke off the hug and headed towards the kitchen. His eyes widen at the sight of muffins.

“I never asked Twilight if she found that memory spell.” He said smacking his head into the table.

She laid a reassuring hoof on his shoulder. “Why not ask her before the party?”

He moaned. “The party…” he put both of his front hooves on the back of his head. “It just gets better and better.” He mumbled.

She kissed him on the cheek and went to grab a muffin. He lifted his head as the smell grew stronger. She put it in front of him and grabbed one for herself. “We’ll go ask her after breakfast; if you don’t mind me coming along.” She said, taking a bit of the muffin.

“Not at all, I would be happy for your company.” He said as he inhaled the muffin.

They both got up and went around feeding her pets. Fluttershy was low on food, having never finished shopping. Flash grimaced as he noticed how much of a strain he was putting on her. I gotta fix this. He gave the chickens the last of the bird seed and threw the bag away.

They left for the library to see if Twilight could help get back his memory. As they walked through the town, all the townponies were out and about, trying to prepare for the party later that day. Banners, balloons, and streamers where everywhere, the colorful objects making the town look like a circus. Several ponies where building a stage with a couple more hooking up speakers. One pony was setting up what looked like a turntable off to the right of the stage. She flipped several switches and a brief burst of static ran through the half dozen speakers.

Flash and Fluttershy cringed as the static ran through the town with most ponies covering their ears in pain. The pony smiled apologetically and flipped the switch again, the machine turning off. All the ponies mumbled something as they continued to work.

They skirted the workers and managed to get to the library without further incident. As they knocked, the door flung open.

“How many times do I have to tell you Pinkie, I don’t know where that balloon went!” Twilight screamed. When no response followed, she looked up into the scared faces of Flash and Fluttershy. “Oh, I’m sorry; Pinkie has been knocking on the door all morning looking for a stupid balloon.” She said apologetically.

“It’s…it’s alright.” Flash stammered. He noticed that Fluttershy was hiding behind him.

“So what can I help you two with?” Twilight asked, motioning them to follow her inside.

“Well, I was wondering if you found that memory spell.” Flash asked, dragging Fluttershy with him.

“Oh yes, I had it confused with a memorization spell in a different book for awhile; oh the irony.” She said laughing.

He smiled. “I was wondering if you wanted to try it out.”

Twilight looked at him. “You would let me try it out on you?”

“Of course; what could go wrong?”

“I could accidentally liquefy your brain or turn you into a bumbling idiot…” she said, stopping at the looks on both their faces. “I guess we could try.”

Fluttershy looked at him, her eyes pleading him not to do it. He swallowed and nodded. “Let’s try it.”

Twilight looked shocked. “I’ve never done a memory spell before, I might screw it up.”

He smiled. “I believe in you, I think you can do it.” He gulped. “But let’s try and do this before I lose my nerve.”

She blinked. “I just want to make sure you know the repercussions; are you sure.” He nodded. She took a deep breath. “Ok, let’s try this.”

Fluttershy clung on to him as Twilight’s horn started to pulse with a golden aura. She closed her eyes and started to concentrate, trying to remember what the book said to do. The book made it sound so easy; touch your conscious with theirs and give energy at certain key points to bolster memory. It was a lot harder then she thought, especially trying to make contact with Flash’s mind.

As she sent her mind towards his, she heard a cackling laugh and then a voice in her head spoke. “Oh Twilight, when will you learn.”

Suddenly she was on the floor, struggling to stay awake. Spike was there in an instant, helping her up. She shook her head, trying to clear it. “Well, that was a new one.” She said as she looked over at Fluttershy and Flash. Flash had collapsed as she did, but hadn’t got up yet. Fluttershy was shaking him frantically, calling his name. “Spike, get some water!” Twilight yelled as she rushed over and looked at Flash, still not awake.

[....]

“Ugh… this is getting old really fast.” Flash said as he sat on the bed Twilight had rushed him to in the library. Fluttershy was curled up next to him, happy that he was awake. “How long was I out for?” He asked.

“Only a few hours, I was about to take you to the hospital.” Twilight said as she sighed, relived.

“No offense to Nurse Redheart, but I hate the hospital.” He said.

They all laughed.

“So what happened?” Flash asked Twilight.

“I’m not sure; I don’t think the memory spell worked. I finally found your mind when somepony or something told me when I would never learn. Then I was on the floor and you were out.”

He sighed. “Sounds like you met Discord… or whatever part of him that’s in my mind.”

They were silent as they all thought. “How is the search for the 7th element?” Fluttershy asked.

Twilight laughed bitterly. “It’s impossible. I’ve gone through every book in here 15 times and I still can’t find anything about it.”

“Do you think Discord was lying? I mean, it wouldn’t be the first time he’s done something like this.” Flash said.

Suddenly the window in front of them shattered as a pony bounced off the bed and landed face first on the floor. Everypony stared at him as he got up and shook his head.

This pony had about the same color coat as the one that Flash met in his mind, but was tinged darker. His eyes held an odd gleam to them, their chocolate brown shimmering in the light. His blonde mane was a bit erratic, clearly seen better days. He had an odd symbol on his flank, looking like an upside down Y.

“Are you alright?” Twilight asked, running over and checking on the pony. She noticed his mark. “Is that a Lambda symbol?”

“Oh I’m fine. I’m sorry about your window and yes it is. I’m surprised anypony knows it these days.” He said, brushing off the debris.

“How could anypony not?” She said, listing off numerous reasons such as measuring wavelengths.

Flash and Fluttershy stared at each other before laughing. They both got up and Flash extended a hoof. “Cloud Flash and Fluttershy, we’re glad you’re ok.” He said with a smile.

The pony shook his hoof enthusiastically. “I’ve had worse. And I’m Lambda, just like my cutie mark.”

Flash stared. “Cutie mark; is that what those things are called?” He asked, before laughing.

Everypony stared at him as he tried to stop. “I’m sorry; I’ve seen to have forgotten about them.” He said as he stifled a laugh.

Lambda stared at him intently, not blinking. “You’re the one that Alli met when he tested that spell for me aren’t you?”

“Yes… that’s me. He met me in my mind.” Flash said looking at the pony warily.

Lambda smiled. “I knew it! I knew my spell would work! Now, can you tell me what it’s like to be inside one’s own mind or how you see yourself-”

“Look, you seem nice, but I’d rather not talk about it if you don’t mind.” Flash interrupted.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have been so nosey.” He sighed. “I need to listen to her more and this wouldn’t happen.”

“Who?” Twilight asked.

Lambda’s face seemed to get a red hue. “My marefriend.”

“Oh.” Flash and Twilight said together, before laughing.

His face got a darker shade of red. “What’s so funny?”

“Nothing, just I know what you mean.” Flash said, nuzzling Fluttershy. She was still hiding next to him.

“What do you mean?” He asked.

“Well… having a marefriend is a lot more complicated than it looks.” He said laughing. Fluttershy poked him in the ribs, getting a surprised yelp. Everypony laughed at Flash, whose face was red but he smiled. He poked Fluttershy back, whose eep made everypony laugh harder. She hid her face in Flash’s chest, embarrassed.

Lambda looked at the clock in the room. “Oh wow, I need to start heading back. She’s going to kill me.” He said.

“Late for a date?” Flash asked with a grin.

“Actually yes; this is the third time this week.” Lambda answered.

“Wait; before you leave, what were you doing before you crashed through my window?” Twilight asked.

“Well, I was working on a spell to try and give us earth and unicorn ponies flight without wings or any mechanical device like a weather balloon. And it sorta propelled me through the window.” He said sounding embarrassed.

“What spells were you using?”

“Oh well I was combining the Levitation with Speed boost. Then there was Hover that I wasn’t sure would work.” He said and it soon delved into a back and forth conversation about magic.

“Well this conversation is fascinating, but Fluttershy and I got to go.” Flash said knowing that he wouldn’t be heard. He shook his head and they left Twilight with her new friend.

They walked out of the library, waving goodbye to a startled Spike, as they made their way out of town. Fluttershy led Flash to a clearing near the Everfree Forest and sat down.

“So what are we doing out here?” He asked, looking around at the beautiful landscape. “Not that I mind it.” He said with a grin.

Out of nowhere, a blue blur landed in front of them. Rainbow Dash stared at them as motioned for Flash to get up. “Princess Celestia wanted me to teach you how to fly so now isn’t the time to be lounging with Fluttershy.” She demanded.

Flash sighed and got up. He stretched, trying to loosen up. “Alright captain, what do I gotta do first?”

Dash shook her head. “Do you know how to hover?” She asked, her wings flapping steadily till she was several inches off the ground.

“No, I don’t.” He said, staring at the ground.

Dash was speechless. “What kind of Pegasus are you? You can’t even flap your wings can you?”

“Um Dash, maybe you’re being a little too hard on him.” Fluttershy muttered.

“No I’m not; Princess Celestia wanted him to learn to fly as soon as possible, which means we gotta give him the crash course.” She said with a smile. Her wings stopped and she landed on the ground. “Turn around and open your wings completely.” She commanded.

He did as he was told and opened them, the muscles wincing at the lack of use. He suddenly felt pressure on his back near those muscles.

“You feel that? Those are your wing muscles. Now flap your wings 5 times.”

He nodded and tried to get those muscles to contract. It was harder then he thought, wondering how the other pegasi did this so easily. He licked his lips and commanded those muscles to move closer together. His wings spasmed in what looked like a flap.

“You call that a flap? I want you to do it again and make it look like your trying.”

He clenched his jaw muscle and concentrated harder, sweat breaking out on his forehead. He struggled with all his might and finally, agonizingly slow, both of his wings beat in unison, up and down.

One.

He repeated the process with each time was easier; soon he had done 5 flaps. He glanced at Dash and smiled, out of breath. “What’s next?”

Dash shook her head. “Don’t get cocky rookie; we still got a long way to go.” Her wings flapped and she hovered again. “Now try and have your wings pick you off the ground. Remember to keep your wings steady and even.”

He took a deep breath and started pushing those muscles again. This time they listened and his wings flapped. He smiled as they worked slowly to lift him off the ground.

“You did it.” Fluttershy said a smile on her face.

He blushed and suddenly his wings stopped and he fell flat on his face. Dash started laughing, holding her stomach as Fluttershy rushed over to check and see if he was ok. He hesitantly got up and shook his head, trying to clear the cob webs. He nodded that he was ok to Fluttershy and tried again. His muscles once again responded and he was airborne. He smiled and looked to see Fluttershy smiling too.

“Ok now let’s see how long you last.” Dash said as she slowly hovered towards him.

He nodded, afraid to speak. They waited for what seemed like hours; the steady beat of his wings making it seem longer. He started to sweat and breath harder. He knew he couldn’t hold it for much longer, wondering how long he had hovered for. Inevitably, his strength gave out and he gracefully landed, for once. He started to pant as his wing muscles screamed.

“15 minutes, not bad rookie; with some more practice you could match your marefriend.” Dash said, laughing.

“Dash, maybe you’re being a little too hard on him.” Fluttershy said a hoof on Flash’s shoulder.

Dash sighed. “Ok. We’ll take 5 then continue. Is that alright with you?” He nodded. “Good.” She said before taking off in a blur of blue.

“I don’t think she likes me.” He said with a smile.

“I’m sorry; I don’t know what’s gotten into her.” Fluttershy said, staring in the direction that Rainbow Dash disappeared to.

“If you wanna go follow her, go ahead. You don’t have to stay. I’m just going to sit here and take a little nap.” He said as his hooves gave out and he fell to the ground.

Fluttershy was silent for a moment, before sitting next to him and leaned against his shoulder. “I don’t want to intrude on her; she knows she can tell me anything.” She looked over at Flash and found him sound asleep, the steady rise and fall of his chest signifying that he was already deep. She smiled and sat next to him, watching over him.

[....]

Rainbow Dash was flying faster than she ever had before, expect when she did the Sonic Rainboom. She had to get away from those two or else they would drive her crazy, the way he looks at her and vice versa. Rainbow Dash shook her head. She couldn’t stop thinking of Flash, that look of determination on his face, the way he attacks challenges head on. “I swore I would never fall for any colt.” She told to herself, but she wasn’t listening. She knew that they would never work out, they were complete opposites. He was too kind and gentle, while she was headstrong and rash. And besides, he’s madly in love with Fluttershy. Sadness slowly crept in.

She continued to fly in silence till she landed on her home cloud. She paced back in forth, waiting for time to go by. She didn’t mean to be so hard on him, but she didn’t know how else to act. He threw her emotions into overdrive; not even she knew what she would do around him. She sighed and kicked the floor at her helplessness. She felt a tear well up in her eye and she stood there surprised at its presence.

She gritted her teeth and took off before the tear could travel down her face.

[....]

“Alright, up and at them; time for more practice.” Dash said as she landed next to the couple. She shut her mouth as Fluttershy woke Flash up, his eyes still glazed over as he staggered to his hooves. At this rate, he’ll never learn to fly.

“How long was I asleep for?” He asked, noticing the sun about halfway through the sky.

“Only for an hour or so.” Fluttershy answered.

He looked at Dash confused. “What happened to 5 minutes?”

Dash blushed. “I got sidetracked and had some work to do.” She said, stammering.

He shrugged. “Hey I’m not complaining.” He said, laughing. He nuzzled Fluttershy and she giggled. Dash had to clench her jaw really hard from not saying something.

“Alright now what?” He said, his wings stretching out.

“Flap your wings and follow me.” She said as her own wings jettisoned her into the sky.

Flash gulped and got his wings to propel himself after her.

“Don’t look down just yet.” Dash joked as she saw him catching up. He’s actually a decent flier. Given time and practice, he might become as good as me; almost.

They were several stories high in the air, the ground an odd mixture of pastel colors, mostly made of greens and browns. Flash had to look down and wished he didn’t. Whoa, we’re really high.

As he caught up to the waiting Pegasus, he saw that she was smirking. “What?” He asked, careful to keep his wings synchronized.

“You’re actually not bad, for a rookie.” She said. “It looks like you were just a bit rusty. Now do you feel that breeze?” He nodded. “We use those to help us travel, but it’s mostly the flapping of our wings that propel us forward. Those air currents make it easy to travel faster than usual. Just be careful though, try and go against them and they tire you out.”

He smiled as sweat built up on his forehead again from the continuous exertion. “I can see why.”

She tried to hide the smile. “Ok let’s see how you fly.” She flew towards him and pushed, causing him to tumble backwards.

His eyes grew as he actually managed to stabilize himself and he turned around and flew towards her, faster than either of them thought he was capable of. He hit her in the chest, the blow unexpected. Her jaw dropped at the sudden pain that blossomed from her chest, and her wings locked as she started to plummet.

His eyes grew wide as she started to fall. He flapped his wings and caught up to her as fast as he could. He saw the ground rushing closer than he thought, too fast to try and stop her. He did the only thing he could think of. He flew ahead of her and caught her and put his body first, right before they hit the ground.

Hitting the ground was more painful then he thought it would be. Blackness crept on his vision and everything had a blur to it. He took a deep breath, trying to see if he broke anything. All that he was getting back was pain. I don’t think I broke anything. He thought. He remembered catching Dash and he looked at her to make sure she was alright. He looked down to see her eyes staring back at him, full of pain, fury, and embarrassment? He couldn’t tell about the last one, but she pushed herself out of his arms and took off, not even when Fluttershy was yelling her name, well, yelling wasn’t what she was doing.

Fluttershy rushed over and helped him up, concern in her eyes. “Are you alright?” She asked, worried.

“Yeah, I’m fine; but I’m more worried about her.” He said motioning his head in the direction Dash had flown off in. He stood up and loosened his muscles again. He looked at Fluttershy, who nodded.

“She would probably have gone home.” Was all she said a smile on her face. She pointed in the direction that Dash had left at.

He nodded and took off, unstable at first but soon gained speed and altitude.

[....]

Her house was easier to find then he thought, the floating cloud house hanging over a meadow. He still wasn’t sure how he was going to land, considering he’s never landed on a cloud before or even if he could. He closed his eyes and gently touched it, it was strangely solid, as if he was standing on concrete, abet he could feel liquid in the ground and it felt like he was walking on water. He gingerly, still afraid of falling through the cloud walked up to the door.

He knocked and no one answered, so he knocked again louder. When no one replied, he sighed and gently pushed the door open. “Hello? Dash, are you here?” He asked, looking around the room.

The room was a sight to behold. Everything seemed to be made out of clouds, the couch looking like a great place to sleep. He slowly walked inside, shutting the door behind him. He glanced around, trying to spot the blue Pegasus. He found her lying in a bed of clouds, curled in a ball.

“What do you want?” She asked, her voice mixed with pain and sarcasm.

“I wanted to make sure you’re alright and apologize.” He said staring at the cloudy floor.

“Why do you care?”

“Cause your my friend and I didn’t mean to hit you.”

She laughed, it sounded painful. “Friend; I don’t need a friend. I need you to leave me alone.”

“What did I ever do to you?” He asked, very careful to keep his voice neutral.

She turned around, her face red in anger. “You… you never seem to get mad, or upset, or throw a fit. Even after everything that’s happened, you smile and laugh. How can you be so accepting? Even after everything I’ve done to you…” she paused, her face red and a tear came out of her eye. “How can you still treat me like a friend?”

He didn’t know what to do. “Dash, the only reason I am how I am is because I don’t know what else to do. Sure, I get mad and depressed, who wouldn’t if they wounded in a land where they have no memories? But that doesn’t stop me from smiling and laughing. It can’t. Fluttershy, You, Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie make sure I don’t go insane with depression. You guys are the reason I’m even still able to get up in the morning and continue living.”

She laughed again, a short laugh. “It’s not me or any of the others, its Fluttershy that keeps you going.”

His face turned red. “Yes, she’s a big reason I’m able to do what I do; but your apart of it to. Your take-no-nonsense attitude makes me jealous; I wish I could be like you sometimes. Your loyalty to your friends, jumping into trouble the moment they need help. I could never do that; I’m too much of a coward.”

She stared at him. “You really think so?”

“Well, they did give you the Element of Loyalty for a reason.” He said with a smile.

She laughed a little. “Thanks Flash, you know you’re not bad for a colt.”

He stared at her. “What is that supposed to mean?”

She laughed even harder. “Nothing; I hope Fluttershy knows how lucky she is.”

His eyes grew wide as the double meaning hit him. She seemed to realize what she said to, her face going bright red.

“Um… well, I’m glad I could help Dash. Now I gotta go back to and get ready for that party.” He said, walking towards the door.

“Flash wait.” She said, trying to build up the courage. “I know how you feel about Fluttershy and I shouldn’t say-” She was interrupted by Flash.

“I know it took a lot of courage to say that and I’m flattered that you see me that way, but my heart belongs to Fluttershy. I’m sorry that this is so blunt but I hope we could still be friends though.”

She nods. “I would like that.” She says as she holds out a hoof, holding back tears.

He shook his head no and pulled her into a hug. She was motionless, before her face turned red. “You will always be my friend Dash.” He whispered into her ear. She couldn’t hold the tears back and several hit Flash, who frowned and gently picked her up and laid her on the bed.

“I’m sorry; I’m not usually like this.” Dash said trying to cover up the tears.

Flash merely smiled and tapped her shoulder reassuringly. “One day Dash, you’ll make some colt happy beyond belief.”

“How do you know? And what happens if I don’t want to?” She asked with some of the fire back from earlier.

He laughed. “Something’s you just don’t have control over Dash. But I do have to leave and start getting ready. Are you going to be ok?” he asked.

“I’ll be fine; you worry too much.” She said, waving a hoof dismissingly.

He shrugged. “It’s what I do. So will I see you at the party?”

“Of course, wouldn’t miss it.”

He smiled. “Then see you in a little bit.” He said as he left her house.

She stared after him as he left, she saw that he finally mastered flying and laughed. I wonder what’s going to happen now.

[....]

“I don’t think I can do this.” Flash said as Fluttershy helped him put on a tux.

“Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” She reassured him kissing him.

When he got home, he told Fluttershy what happened between them and at first he was worried that she was upset with him, but that fear quickly dissipated as she jumped into his hooves and kissed. She was worried but knew that he had to follow his heart and was happy that he came back.

Rarity had stopped by and gave him the outfit she had made for him, a dark green tux that went with his coat and glimmered with a few dark forest green gems that she had sprinkled on. He had tried to come up with some form of agreement as payment, but she said it was free for friends.

Fluttershy was wearing her Gala dress, the grass green and sky blue stash reflecting her natural beauty. The blue flowers in her mane helped.

He smiled as he looked at her. “I didn’t think it was possible, but you look more beautiful than usual.”

She blushed and kissed him on the cheek. “We gotta go or we’ll be late.”

They left the house and quickly made it to the town. The entire town was there; the pony from earlier mixing it up on the turntable and dancing ponies all over the place. Flash had his guitar strapped to his back, looking nervous as he and Fluttershy went to rendezvous with their friends.

They weren’t there and Flash saw Mayor Mare looking frantically for him. He gulped and kissed Fluttershy. “Looks like I gotta go, wish me luck?”

She pushed his muzzle towards her and kissed him deeply. “Good luck but you don’t need it.” She said with a smile.

He smiled and waved goodbye before making his way over to the Mayor. “Alright where do you want me?” He asked her.

She held a hoof over her heart. “Oh thank Celestia; I thought you weren’t going to show up.”

“I stick by my word, through hell or high water.” He said.

She smiled and nodded. “Good to hear. You’ll be up in a few minutes; Vinyl Scratch needs a break to eat.” He nodded. “Is there anything you need?” She asked.

“Not that I can think of. You got the backup band?” He asked.

“Yes, we found a drummer and a bass player like you asked.” She said

A voice crackled over the speakers. “Alright gentlecolts and mares, we got a treat for you. As per requested by Princess Celestia herself, I present a new colt that’s making waves in the music world. I give you Cloud Flash!”

Mayor Mare nodded her head as he took a gulp of fresh air before he walked out onto the stage. He felt his face get bright red as the crowd got deathly quiet, not sure what to make of him. Suddenly the quiet was broken as Rarity, Twilight, Pinkie, and Applejack stomped their hooves. Fluttershy smiled at him as he wet his lips and got the courage to speak in the mic.

“Thank you. Um, I’m not too good at this public speaking thing, so I’m just going to start playing.” He said, very bluntly. That got a few laughs out of the crowd.

He started strumming the guitar, the crowd silent as he started picking up the tempo. The bass player joined with the drums. Flash continued to play as he started singing.

“Now if your feelin' kinda low 'bout the dues

you've been payin'

Future's comin' much too slow

And you wanna run but somehow you keep on stayin'

Can't decide on which way to go

I understand about indecision

But I don't care if I get behind

People living in competition

All I want is have my peace of mind”

The crowd was getting into the song, the hooves stamping with the beat. The other band players seemed to be smiling as they played the song.

“Now you’re climbing to the top of the company ladder

Hope it doesn’t take too long

Can’t you see there’ll come a day when it won’t matter

Come a day when you’ll be gone

Take a look ahead

Take a look ahead

Yea,yea,yea, yea

Well everybody's got advice they just

Keep on givin'

Doesn’t mean to much to me

Lots of people have to make believe

They’re livin'

Can't decide who they should be

Take a look ahead

Take a look ahead

Yea,yea,yea, yea

Look ahead!”

As he finished the song, he took a deep breath. He smiled as the entire crowd gave them an enthusiastic applause, the ground shaking as they stomped there hooves. Some ponies were whistling their appreciation as he scanned the crowd, looking for his group. He saw Dash hovering in the back, smiling. He waved to her as she waved back and made her way towards Fluttershy and the others.

Fluttershy was smiling and he knew she enjoyed it. He cleared his throat. “So what did you guys think? Did we pass the audition?”

Everypony laughed and made it clear they enjoyed it. He saw the dj pony, Vinyl Scratch, nodding in approval.

“One more song!” A chant that quickly grew as everypony seemed to be saying it.

He laughed and looked at his band mates. “What do ya say guys, want to go another round?” They nodded and he smiled.

They nodded as the Flash started playing the guitar with the bass player quickly joined.

“Those crazy nights, I do remember in my youth

I do recall, those were the best times, most of all

In the heat with a blue jean girl

Burnin' love comes once in a lifetime

She found me singing by the rail road track

Took me home, we danced by moonlight."

By the end of the first sentence the drummer had joined. They crowd was going crazy at this point.

"Those summer nights are callin',

Stone in love

Can't help myself I'm fallin'

Stone in love

Old dusty roads, led to the river

Runnin' slow

She pulled me down, and in clover

We'd go 'round

In the heat with a blue jean girl

Burnin' love comes once in a lifetime

Oo the memories never fade away

Golden girl, I'll keep you forever.”

The song ended with Flash playing the guitar as everypony watched in awe. You could barely hear Flash towards the end of the song as the crowd applauded like crazy. Everypony smiled and were happy as they did a little bow on stage. The ‘one more song’ chant started going again, but by this time Vinyl Scratch was finished with her quick snack and was back at her turntable.

“From what I’m hearing, I say that you enjoyed the newcomer {see what I did there?}?” She asked before quickly being silenced by the chorus of cheers. She laughed. “So if they wanted to, would you listen to one more song?” The answer was deafening and Flash looked at his band mates with a shrug.

“What do you guys say, another song?” He asked and they laughed.

“At this rate, we’ll be up here all night.” The bass player said with a smile.

“I don’t think that’s necessarily a bad thing Bass.” The drum player chipped in. “At least we know we’re liked.”

“No offense Cymbal, but it’s not us getting liked, its wonder colt here.” Bass said with a smile, pointing to Flash.

Flash blushed even harder. “I think all of us are getting recognized.” He said.

“Whatever you say wonder colt, it’s your call.” Bass said with a smile.

Flash smiled and turned back to the mic. “Ok one more song, but this is the last one.” He had to stop as the crowd applauded. As he waited for them to calm down, he asked Bass to tell Mayor Mare to get a piano. Bass raised an eyebrow but asked anyways and several moments later a piano was pushed onstage. The crowd instantly grew quiet as Flash took the guitar off and opened the piano, staring at the keys. I really hope I know what I’m doing. One of the stageponies brought a mic and sat it on the piano. Flash nodded his thanks and sat down, hoping he wasn’t about to make a fool of himself.

“This song goes out to a certain pony.” He said, seeing Fluttershy and winked as he began to pressed the keys.

“Highway run into the midnight sun

Wheels go round and round

You're on my mind

Restless hearts sleep alone tonight

Sending all my love along the wire

They say that the road

ain't no place to start a family

Right down the line it's been you and me

And loving a music man

ain't always what it's supposed to be

Girl

you stand by me

I'm forever yours

faithfully”

As he finished singing, the bass and drums started. They acted as if they’ve been playing this song forever, instead of making it up on the fly. He looked over at Fluttershy, whose face was bright red as her friends were smiling. Fluttershy was hiding behind Rarity, who had a hoof over her.

“Circus life under the big top world

We all need the clowns to make us laugh

Through space and time

Always another show

Wondering where I am lost without you

And being a part ain't easy on this love affair

Two strangers learn to fall in love again

I get the joy of rediscovering you

Oh girl

you stand by me

I'm forever yours

faithfully

Oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh

oh oh oh oh oh oh

faithfully

I'm still yours

I'm forever yours

Ever yours

faithfully”

The crowd was in pure pandemonium as he finished. He got up off the piano and patted it his thanks. He got up in front of the mic, waiting for the crowd to calm down. He noticed Fluttershy crying and looking at him, smiling. He smiled and wished he could know what was going on. Just then, the crowd grew quiet as Princess Celestia walked on stage. Everypony bowed and Flash quickly walked away from the mic.

“Thank you Flash that was one of the best performances I’ve heard in a long time.” She said with a smile. Flash smiled and bowed, not trusting his voice. “I am very impressed with you, Cymbal, and Bass. You guys performed magnificently, considering this were the first time you’ve worked together; how about another round of applause?” She asked and was quickly deafened.

Celestia bent down and whispered into his ear. “After this, we need to talk.” He raised an eyebrow at her and she nodded. She spoke back into the mic. “This has to be one of the best parties I’ve attended in years and I am very proud of you guys.”

Before she could continue, clouds appeared in the sky. Everypony looked up at the clouds, but noticed they were not normal clouds, they were pink.

Fluttershy, Rarity, Twilight, Celestia, Dash, and Applejack’s eyes grew as they realized what this meant. The only pony that seemed to be enjoying this was Pinkie, who was jumping up and down. “Hopefully it’s like last time and it starts raining chocolate milk.” At that, everypony remembered and they all started screaming. Princess Celestia tried to regain control.

“Ponies, try to stay calm; it’s merely the Pegasi trying something new with the clouds.”

“Oh my dear Celestia, when will you ever learn that that won’t help?” A familiar voice to her said. She turned around and saw Flash standing there but she instantly knew it couldn’t be him. Flash’s eyes were gone, replaced by yellow and red.

“Discord; what have you done to Flash?” She said.

“Oh he’s here; I just wanted to say hi.” Discord said with a smile.

“Stop this now Discord.” Twilight said as the group ran on to the stage. They all gasped as they saw Flash, knowing instantly it wasn’t him.

“Where’s Flash?” Fluttershy asked, voice barely under control, tears appearing in her eyes.

The Discord controlled Flash turned to look at her and smiled. “Ah, yes Fluttershy; the Element of Kindness. Flash is very fond of you.”

“Where is he Discord?” Celestia answered with steel in her voice.

“Oh he’s around; somewhere.” Discord said with a smile.

Fluttershy couldn’t handle it anymore and started crying with Rarity rushing over and giving her an encouraging hug.

“Poor Fluttershy, this must be real hard for you.” Discord said, mocking her.

Celestia stared at Discord. “Don’t make me hurt you.”

Discord laughed at this. “We both know if you tried, you would hurt or kill Flash.” Fluttershy started sobbing and Discord laughed even harder. “Oh it’s good to be back.” Next Chapter: The Battle Estimated time remaining: 5 Hours, 4 Minutes