Flash was running through an abandoned cave, the eerie drip of water from a stalagmite echoing throughout.

“Fluttershy!” He yelled, looking around.

“You’re too late boy.” A voice replied. He saw a unicorn walk from the shadows, his horn still glowing.

“Where is she?” Flash demanded.

The unicorn laughed. “If you had only listened to me, I wouldn’t have had to take such drastic steps.”

“What are you talking about? Where is she!?”

He merely pointed near a wall. Flash gasped as he saw Fluttershy laying completely still, her eyes closed and she wasn’t breathing. Around her laid the other Elements of Harmony, all completely still.

“What did you do?” Flash yelled, running over to Fluttershy and cradling her head in his lap. He was crying but he didn’t care.

“I did what I had to do to unleash your full potential.” The unicorn said. Suddenly they were outside and all of Equestria was on fire. “I had to make sure you grew up to be able to fulfill your destiny.”

“What…what are you talking about?” Flash gasped, unable to comprehend what he was seeing.

The unicorn laughed. “You were the ultimate revenge against your mother; the alicorn killer.”

“No…I can’t be…” he said.

“Embrace your destiny Vash; you truly are one of a kind.” He said, laughing.

Flash felt pain blossoming throughout his body as he felt something rip through the skin on his forehead. He quickly ran over to the nearby lake and saw that he had his horn again.

“So it looks like you’re finally ready for the fight.” The unicorn said, laughing hysterically.

[....]

Flash woke up, plastered in cold sweat. He blinked a few times, leaning forward. He gently lifted his hoof off Fluttershy, who mumbled something and pulled the covers higher on herself. Flash smiled faintly, rubbing his eyes. He silently got out of the bed, making sure she was still asleep. He made his way towards the door and left. He made his way through the house, the random assortment of animals staring at him as he headed towards the front door.

He walked outside, the cold breeze blowing hard. He glanced up and saw that the moon was being covered slowly by rain clouds. He couldn’t hold it anymore and started to cry, the nightmare still vivid in his memory.

“Flash what’s wrong?” Fluttershy asked as she made her way to him.

He wiped his eyes. “It’s nothing ‘Shy.”

Fluttershy stared at him. “Please tell me.” She walked up to him and hugged him as he buried his head into her chest. He started to cry again as he relived the dream. She didn’t say anything, merely rocked him back and forth.

After a few moments of silence, Flash finally spoke. “What do you think it means?”

“I don’t know but maybe Princess Celestia does.”

“I’d rather not tell her.”

“Flash, this sounds important and I think, I mean if you don’t mind me saying, but I think you should tell her.”

He smiled and kissed her. “You know I always want your opinion.” He sighed. “I’ll tell her next time I see her.”

“Promise?”

“Pinkie Promise.” He said as they both laughed. She let go of him and he pulled her into a hug. “I don’t know how I’d survive without you.”

She smiled. “I’m sure you’d find a way.”

They stared silently at the moon, which was still high in the sky.

“Come on, let’s try and go back to bed.” She said, grabbing his hoof. He nodded and let her drag him back into the house. They made their way back into her room as she shut the door.

They laid in bed, snuggling.

“See you in a few hours.” She said, turning and kissing him.

“You too.” He said as she leaned against him.

She fell asleep before he did. He laid there, slightly running his hoof along her back as he tried to figure out what his dream meant before he too fell asleep.

[....]

Fluttershy yawned quietly, stretching. She turned over to see Flash sleeping peacefully, his cheeks still wet with tears. She frowned and gently pushed his hoof off her. She leaned over him and carefully wiped them off. She stopped when his eyes fluttered and he said her name. She smiled when he flipped over and went back to sleep. She got out of the bed and did her usual morning routine. She made it to the kitchen and saw Mom making breakfast while Dad was sitting at the table, reading the newspaper.

“Morning.” Static said as he glanced towards her from behind the newspaper.

“Good morning.” She said as she sat at the table.

“Where’s Flash?”

“Still sleeping.”

“Oh. I heard him screaming last night; is he ok?” Mellow asked.

Fluttershy paused. “I think he’s ok.”

Mellow and Static shared a look. “Is everything alright?”

Yes Mom.”

“Ok…well if anything’s wrong, you know you can tell us.”

“I will.”

“Breakfast smells amazing.” Flash said as he entered the kitchen. He sat next to Fluttershy who leaned over and kissed him. “Well good morning to you too.” He said, kissing her back.

“So Flash, what are you doing today?” Static asked.

“Well…I have a few errands to run and I’m going to go try and find a job.”

Fluttershy looked at him. “A job?”

“Well I would like to stop mooching off you.” He said laughing.

“But you’re not mooching off me.” She muttered.

“I’ve lived in your house for about a month now and I haven’t paid for a single thing.” He grabbed her hoof. “I would actually like to help you.”

Static coughed. “Well, if you need a job, I can see if my friend needs a hoof.”

“Really?”

“Sure; I’m sure he could use it.”

“Thank you.” Flash paused. “What does he do?”

“He makes sure that the weather is taken care of all over Equestria.”

“Really?”

“Yeah; sometimes he tells me he has to get on Ponyville’s weather captain’s case to get it done in time.” Static said, laughing.

Flash looked at Fluttershy. “Who’s in charge of Ponyville’s weather?”

Static answered. “Some mare named Rainbow…something…”

“Dash?!”

“Yeah, that was it! Rainbow Dash; you couldn’t believe how lazy she is.”

Flash and Fluttershy shared a look. “If you could ask him, I would love to help with whatever I can.”

“Alright, when we get back, I’ll ask him and send you a message when I find out.”

“Thank you so much!”

Static held up a hoof. “All I ask is you don’t screw up; my reps on the line too kid.”

“Yes sir! I won’t let you down.” Flash promised. He looked at the clock; it was almost 10:30. “Well I think it’s about time I head out.” He said as he got up. He kissed Fluttershy, shook hooves with Static and Mellow gave him a hug.

“Don’t worry; I’ll save you some breakfast.” She promised.

“Thank you.” He said, before walking back into Fluttershy’s room and grabbing 500 bits out of his bag. He left the house, promising to be back in a few hours. I need to find Rarity; she’ll know what to get ‘Shy. He wondered around, trying to remember how to find the Carousel Boutique.

[....]

After wandering around for a while, he finally found it, the Boutique close to Twilight’s house. Gotta be careful. He looked around to make sure he wasn’t snuck up on. He knocked gently on the door and somepony opened it. He expected to see Rarity, but not her little sister Sweetie Bell.

“Oh hey Sweetie Bell, how are you?” Flash asked, smiling at the little filly.

She smiled and went to say something when Scootaloo crashed into her. Scootaloo smiled and helped her up, getting a glare in return.

“Sorry Sweetie Bell, still don’t have much control over these things.” She said, pointing to her fluttering wings.

“Sweetie Bell, is somepony at the door?” Rarity yelled, her voice sounding like it came from the second story.

“Yes Rarity, its Flash!” Sweetie Bell yelled back.

There were sounds of running hooves as Rarity appeared in the doorway and bowed. “Why hello Prince Vash, what do we owe the honor of a visit from somepony of your stature?”

Flash blinked a few times. “Please Rarity, its Flash and no more of this royal business.” He looked around. “I actually was wondering if I could ask you…a personal question.”

“Please come in.” Rarity said, leading him inside. She walked into the kitchen and shut the door behind her with her magic as she started making tea. Flash sat at her table waiting for her as she sat down. “So what is this personal question?”

Flash’s face grew red. “You got to promise me you won’t tell anypony.”

Her eyes grew as she realized the enormity of the secret. “Ok Flash, I promise not to tell anypony. Now why are you being so secretive?” She asked as the tea pot whistled for attention. She picked it up with her magic and levitated it over along with two cups as she poured the tea.

Flash took a deep breath. “I...I want to get Fluttershy an engagement present but I don’t know what to get her.” He said rather quickly.

Rarity was silent as she processed what he said, taking a few sips of her tea. “So you want to marry Fluttershy?” She asked.

“Yes.”

She squealed in delight. “How cute; I was wondering when you were going to ask her!”

“Wait you knew?”

“Of course I did darling, it’s my business to know these things.” She put a hoof to her in chin in thought. “Now only if we could get Alli to propose to Twilight…”

“Umm…”

“Oh right, where are my manners.” She started walking towards the door. “Well aren’t we going to get her engagement bracelet?”

“Oh... ok.” Flash said, getting up to follow.

As they walked around, she started questioning him. “So what’s her favorite color? Does she like necklaces or bracelets? What about earrings? Does she like gold or silver?”

“Uh…her favorite color is purple, more of a necklace fan I believe, and I don’t have a clue.”

She smiled and looked at him. “I’m surprised you actually know this stuff about her, most stallions don’t care.”

He laughed. “I’m a really good listener.”

She giggled. “Well Fluttershy is lucky to have a stallion like you that cares what she says.”

He blushed. “Thanks Rarity, but I’m sure she’d find the one if I wasn’t here.”

“Nonsense darling, you got to have more faith in yourself.” She stopped in front of a rather large jewelry store. “Here’s the best jewelry store in all of Equestria.” She said as she pushed him inside.

“Miss Rarity, it’s wonderful to see you again. Now what do I owe the honor of your visit…” Said a brown stallion wearing a dark blue studded black tux; he had greying black mane and black eyes. He stared at Flash. “Who is this…charming gentlecolt?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

“This is my good friend Prince Vash.” Rarity said.

He bowed. “Pleasure to meet you Prince Vash; I am Shiny Sapphire, owner of this jewelry store.”

“Please, call me Flash; I’m not a big fan of formalities.”

“But formalities help make who we are and give structure to our society. Would you bow to any simple pony like a farmer?”

“Yes I would, especially since that simple farmer makes the food that you eat and they do all the hard work you won’t.” Flash said, already not liking Shiny.

“Pardon my friend Mr. Sapphire; he’s not accustom to his title yet.” Rarity said quickly, intervening.

Shiny glared at Flash but looked back at Rarity and smiled. “So what do I owe the special occasion Miss Rarity? Is this the lucky colt that I’ve heard so much about?”

“Heaven’s no!” She said blushing. “No he would like to buy his marefriend an engagement necklace.” She quickly added.

He smiled and bowed at Flash. “Then I offer my congratulations”, his smile got bigger, “or condolences, whichever you prefer.”

Flash smiled and didn’t say anything. He was afraid he might punch Shiny in his smug snout.

“So Flash, what can I do for you?”

“Well, like Rarity said, I was looking for an engagement necklace for my marefriend…”

“Who is the lucky mare if you don’t mind me asking? You can tell me, I know everypony in Ponyville.”

“Well I’d like to keep it a sec-”

“It’s my good friend Fluttershy Mr. Sapphire.”

He whistled and laughed, slapping Flash on the back. “Good job, my boy.”

“Thank you.” Flash said through gritted teeth while also looking for a way to escape.

“So do you know her favorite color or her favorite animal?”

“Purple and butterflies.”

“Hmm…” Shiny said, walking around his store. “How about this?” He asked; holding a small golden butterfly necklace with purple highlights.

“No that certainly won’t do.” Rarity interjected. She and Shiny then began picking up necklaces all over the store, showing them to Flash as they tried to find the ‘right one’, arguing the entire time.

Flash looked out the window in the front of the store, hoping to find something to save him. He smiled as he saw Alli wandering around. “I’ll be right back.” He said as he quickly left the store, leaving Rarity and Shiny arguing over another necklace.

Alli saw him coming and waved. “Hi Flash, how are yo-” he started, only to be grabbed by Flash and pulled into the store. “What the hay?”

“Sorry buddy, I need somepony to talk to before I go insane.” Flash said, embarrassed. “So what are you doing wandering around Ponyville?”

“Well I was looking for a birthday gift for Twilight.”

“When is her birthday?”

“Today.”

“What?! I didn’t know!”

“Didn’t Pinkie come by and invite you?”

“No…I’ve been here all morning.”

“Oh…why what’s going on?” Alli asked, just noticing the store. “Are you buying Fluttershy a birthday gift?”

“Umm…no…”

“Did you already get her something?”

“No…”

“You do know her birthday is in two days right?”

“NO!” Flash yelled, finally getting Rarity and Shiny’s attention.

“What’s wrong?” Rarity asked, walking over to Flash.

“Is Fluttershy’s birthday in two days?”

Rarity was silent, thinking. “Yes…”

“Oh horse feathers.” Flash said, falling on his flank. “I didn’t even know.”

“If you didn’t know then why are you here?”

“If I tell you, you got to promise me you won’t tell anyone, including Twilight.”

“I’ll try, but she’s really good at figuring out when I’m hiding things.” Alli said with a laugh.

“Well… I’m planning on asking Fluttershy to marry me.”

Alli smiled and smacked his friend on the back. “Congrats buddy.”

Flash smiled weakly. “Thanks, but I don’t know if I should now.”

“Why not?”

“I didn’t even know when her bloody birthday was.” Flash said, burying his head in his hooves. “How could she marry me when I know so little about her?”

Alli laid a reassuring hoof on Flash’s shoulder. “I say still ask her at her birthday. You’ll never know unless you try.”

“But…”

“No but; we all know how much you two love each other. Don’t make me start kicking your flank back to Fluttershy.” Alli said with a faint smile.

Flash laughed and smacked Alli jokingly. “Thanks.”

Alli shrugged. “What I’m here for.”

“I think I found the perfect thing.” Shiny said, finally returning from the back of the store, covered in dust. He held up a light purple sapphire shaped in the pattern of a butterfly. “The inside is hollow; I could fill it with any color you want.” He said, handing it to Flash.

Flash stared at it. The butterfly wasn’t that big, maybe only the size of the Element of Harmony necklaces and surprisingly thin, only a bit bigger than a width of a bit. He held it to the light and saw the purple bounce around the room. “I would like you to fill it with emerald green.” He said, handing it back to Shiny.

Shiny disappeared momentarily as he filled it with liquid emerald. He came back and showed the results; the body was green, with thin vein-like green branching out into the wings. “Is this what you were looking for?”

Flash smiled. “That’s perfect; thank you Mr. Sapphire.”

He smiled and bowed.” It was my pleasure. Now, about the cost…”

“How much?”

“400 bits.”

Flash smiled and went to reach into the saddlebag he brought when Rarity interjected. “That price is outrageous!”

“Miss Rarity, I assure you no other pony can match my expertise with jewels.”

“If you lower the price, think how grateful Vash would be and he could bring in new customers. Who wouldn’t want to shop where a prince had?”

Shiny thought for a moment. “300?”

“150.”

Shiny sighed. “Although it goes against my better judgment, I will lower the price to 150 bits if you promise me you’d advertise for me.”

Flash nodded, not really happy about it. “Of course.” He said, gathering the amount of bits. They walked over and to the register and Shiny brought out a small black box with red velvet inside. He gently placed the necklace inside and closed the box. Flash handed over the bits and when Rarity wasn’t looking, slipped an extra 100. “Thank you.” Flash whispered as Shiny nodded.

“You’re welcome any time.” Shiny said as the three ponies left.

Flash and Alli said goodbye to Rarity as she had to get back home to finish Twilight’s birthday dress.

“That mare, I swear.” Alli said, laughing.

“She’s definitely one of a kind.” Flash said, smiling. Neither of them noticed the pink blur until it crashed into Flash. As Flash tried to stop the world from spinning, he looked up to see Pinkie in his face.

“Hiya!” She said with a smile. “So I was looking for you, but you weren’t home; but I was trying to find you to invite you to Twilight’s birthday party tonight. You’re going to come right? You have to; there’s going to be cake and ice cream; oh don’t forget the party games. I love party games.” She said as she continued to rant for a few minutes.

“Pinkie could you get off me?” Flash groaned. How does she do this?

“Oh sorry.” She said, giggling and hopping off him.

“Of course I’ll go to Twi’s party, wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Flash said with a smile.

“Yay!” She said, jumping up and down in joy.

He pushed himself off the ground, standing on his four legs. “Oh Pinkie, what are we going to do about Fluttershy’s birthday party?”

“Well…” she started. “I thought you’d like to help plan it.”

“Uh…sure.”

She smiled. “I think you should propose to her there too.”

Flash’s eyes grew. “How do you know? You know what, never mind.” He said laughing. “I was thinking of a small party since she doesn’t really like a lot of ponies, maybe just her parents and her friends.”

“That actually sounds like a good plan.” Pinkie said.

Ok I’m scared; this isn’t like Pinkie. “So what are you up to Pinkie?”

“Oh, just getting things ready for Twi’s party.” She smiled. “Gotta run, see you guys later.” She said, hopping away.

As she left, Alli and Flash looked at each other. “She scares me.” Alli admitted.

“You have no idea how much.” Flash said, laughing. “Shouldn’t we be getting Twi a birthday present?”

“Oh yeah, I completely forgot.” Alli said, smacking himself in the face.

Flash laughed. “Come on, let’s go to the bookstore.”

As they walked, Flash filled Alli in on what happened since Fluttershy’s parents stayed with them. “So as Static was making breakfast the other day, Angel jumped on his face and started attacking him. Apparently Angel doesn’t like him, especially after he heard what he did to me.” Flash said smiling.

Alli laughed. “Dang, I wish I was there to see that. I’ve heard so many stories about that rabbit.” He said, smiling.

As they arrived at the bookstore it looked like a tornado hit. They spent the next hour helping the owner clean up.

“I can’t thank you young-uns enough.” The elderly pony said.

“It’s nothing Mrs. Scribbles, we’re glad we could help.” Alli said.

She smiled. “Now what can I do for you?”

“Well… it’s Twilight’s birthday today and I was wondering if you had that book that she’s been wanting…” Alli said.

“Of course I do, just a second.” She said, disappearing into the storage room. Several minutes later, she came out carrying a book wrapped in paper. “Just got it this morning.” She said, laying the book on the counter.

“Oh thank Celestia! She’s going to be so happy.” Alli said with a smile. “How much?”

“25 bits.”

Alli’s face fell. “Oh… well, can you put it on hold while I come up with the money?”

“Hold on Alli.” Flash said, reaching into his saddlebag. “I got this covered.”

“Wait Flash, I don’t want to take your money.” Alli protested.

“Don’t worry, you can pay it back.” Flash said with a smile.

Alli sighed. “Alright, but I’m paying you back next week when I get paid.”

“Don’t worry, I know you will.” Flash said as he laid the bits on the counter. The book levitated over to Alli as he put it in his saddlebag. “Alright, maybe you can help me with a present for Twilight too.” Flash said as he started going through the aisles.

As Flash and Alli walked up and down the aisles, they soon found that Twilight had most of the books here. As they were about to give up, Flash saw an older book, looking worse of wear. He picked up the small black covered book and read the title; History of the Alicorn Wars. “Hey Alli, does she have this book?”

Alli walked over and looked at the title. “I don’t think so…”

“Well I’m just going to buy it and if she does, I’ll give her money so she can buy her own book.” Flash said laughing. They walked back to Mrs. Scribbles. “How much for this book?”

She stared at it for a few seconds. “I’ve never seen that book before in my life; where did you find it?”

Alli and Flash looked at each other. “It was towards the back in the history indexes.” Alli said.

“Hmm…well… how about 10 bits?”

“Ok sounds fair.” Flash said as he reached into his saddlebag again. He handed her the money as she gave him back the book.

“You two have a great day.” Mrs. Scribbles said as they waved and walked out.

“So what are you going to do now?” Alli asked Flash as they wandered around Ponyville.

“Maybe try and find a birthday gift for ‘Shy.”

“So you really are going to ask her?”

Flash sighed. “Yeah…”

“What’s wrong?”

“What if she says no? I mean, for Celestia’s sake, I didn’t even know her birthday was in two days!”

“Flash, marriage is a learning experience. You get to know one another and it takes years to learn everything. So what about her birthday? You know now and you probably won’t forget it.”

Flash laughed. “Thanks; it sounds like you’re going to ask Twi to marry you soon.”

Alli’s face got red. “Not any time soon.” He laughed. “Well I wish you the best of luck, I better be getting back to Twilight; probably wondering where I am.”

“You two got a date?’ Flash teased.

“Yep, taking her to Fancy’s restaurant.”

“Oh nice, so he’s finally reopened?”

“It helps when he’s being backed by the Princesses.”

Flash laughed. “This is true. Then I’ll see you later tonight.” He held out a hoof which Alli smacked. “Good luck on the date.” He said as they went their separate ways. He sighed and wandered around town, hoping to find somepony that might help him find Fluttershy a birthday present. He wasn’t really paying attention on where his hooves were took him until he realized that he had wandered out of the town and stood in the field where he learned to fly. He spotted a cloud that had a rainbow striped tail and smiled as he stealthily floated up to the cloud.

He chuckled as he saw Rainbow Dash sleeping peacefully on the cloud. He hovered above her and gently put the edge of his wing over her snout, flicking his wing feathers faintly. She tried to scratch her nose but he quickly pulled his wing away. She mumbled something and turned away from him. He bent down to where his mouth was only a few inches away from her ear. “Rainbow, Spitfire is here to ask you if you want to practice together.”

Rainbow sat up so fast she smashed her head into his nose. As he stumbled back Rainbow shook her head back and forth looking for Spitfire. She noticed Flash holding his nose. “Where is she?”

“It was a joke Rainbow.” He said.

Her eyes narrowed. “Well it wasn’t very funny.”

“I guess not.”

She scooted over to make room for him on the cloud. He sat down, still holding his bruised nose. “So what’s up?” she asked.

He sighed. “Well… I can’t think of what I should get ‘Shy for her birthday.”

She grimaced. “Oh…is it that time already?”

“What?”

She looked away, twirling her hoof in the cloud. “Let’s just say Fluttershy…doesn’t really like ponies knowing it’s her birthday.”

“Why? What happened?”

She sighed. “I can’t tell you.”

“Why not?”

“It’s not my story to tell.”

“Oh.” They were silent. “So… how many ponies know it’s her birthday?”

“Well… there’s me, Twi, Pinkie, Rarity, AJ, and now you.”

“But Alli was the one that told me…”

She smacked her hoof into her face. “Of course that egghead would tell her coltfriend.”

“Why; is it something that bad?”

She got a pained look in her eyes. “Let’s just say it’s the reason why she’s so shy to begin with.”

His eyes grew. “Oh.” They sat in silence. When Flash moved, the bits in his bag jingled and Rainbow rose in eyebrow as she heard it smack against a few things.

“So what’s in the bag?”

“Birthday present for Twi.”

“Oh crud; that’s right.” She said, getting up and stretching.

“Mind if I tag along?” He asked, getting up too.

She smiled. “Only if you can keep up.” She said, twirling off the cloud, leaving a rainbow trail.

He chuckled and sped up to her as he saw her nonchalantly stare at her hooves, waiting for him. “What took you so long?” She asked.

“Oh you know, got caught in a bit of traffic.” He said, laughing as she was still upside down.

She laughed. “Well, let’s hunt down Ms. Egghead a birthday present.” She said as she led them to Quills and Sofa. They landed and walked in, the clerk smiled politely at them.

“Hello you two, how can I help you?”

“It’s my friend Twilight Sparkle’s birthday and I was wondering-”

“Oh Ms. Sparkle my most prized customer.” He said laughing. He bent down behind the counter and pulled out a big box. He lifted the lid and showed a box of half a dozen quills. “It’s the newest type; supposedly leak proof and the tips take double the time to break; used only by the greatest librarians.”

Rainbow’s eyes lit up. “How much?”

“Well…” he said. “Usually these run about 20 a box, but since its Ms. Sparkle’s birthday, I’ll lower the price to 10. Is that alright?”

Rainbow smiled and placed the amount of bits on the counter and took the box.

He smiled as he took the pile of bits and they headed outside. “Have a nice day you two.” He said as the door shut behind them.

Rainbow opened one of the saddlebags on Flash and went to put the box inside.

“Whatcha doing?” He asked, forgetting that the one she opened held Fluttershy’s wedding necklace.

“Well, being the “gentlecolt” that you are, you would carry the box for me, right?” She said, batting her eyelashes like she’s seen Rarity do, trying to hide her laughter.

He laughed. “Of course madam; anything to help.” He said in a higher class accent, dipping his head in a bow.

She laughed but stopped suddenly when she found a small black box. “What’s that?”

“What’s what?”

“What’s in this black box?” She said, reaching in to grab it.

Realization dawned on Flash. “Rainbow wait-” he started, only to see her holding the box and opening it.

Her eyes sparkled as she saw the butterfly. “Whoa…this is awesome.” She saw his face turn bright red. She smiled as she realized what it was. “So… is somepony asking another pony to marry?” She said, poking his side. He didn’t say anything as he started walking away. She flew after him, closing the box and put it back in the saddlebag. “So that’s what got you in such a mood.” She said, hovering above him.

“I…I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Flash stuttered, avoiding her eyes.

“You’re a terrible liar by the way.” She said. “Your face says it all.”

He sighed. “Ok you win Rainbow; but you can’t tell anypony.”

She laughed. “Ok, ok I won’t, but I’m pretty sure everypony will know about it by the end of the day.”

“How?”

She shook her head. “You forgot about Pinkie.”

He facehooved. “Of course.”

She giggled. “Come on; let’s tell the others before Pinkie does.”

He sighed. “I guess.” He said as they took off to Twilight’s tree house.

[....]

Flash and Rainbow decided to drop off Twi’s presents at Rainbow’s house, just in case, and headed back towards the tree house. When they landed on Twi’s doorstep, before either of them could open the door, it magically opened and Flash was pulled inside. As he fell to the floor he saw an oddly happy Twilight; Alli avoided his eyes, Pinkie was acting quieter than normal, scaring Flash, and Rarity was smiling as Spike stared at her with heart shaped eyes.

“Happy Birthday?” Flash asked Twilight and she blushed.

“Thank you, but no. I heard what you’re planning to do with Fluttershy and I wanted to see if I could help.” She said.

Flash glared at Alli. “I told you I couldn’t keep it from her.” Alli mumbled.

Flash sighed. “Well to be honest, I don’t know a thing about how to ask or how to set up one of these-”

“Don’t worry darling, I’ll teach you on how to properly ask her before her birthday.” Rarity promised.

“And I’ll help Fluttershy plan it.” Twilight beamed, squealing in excitement.

Pinkie finally spoke up. “Alli, isn’t it time for you and Twiliy to leave?”

Alli glanced at the clock. “Come on Twi, let’s go.” Alli held a hoof out and Twi accepted it, bidding them all a goodbye. Pinkie then came back to her usual self as she started handing out assignments to us as we decorated the library for the party.

A few hours later, it was set up to Pinkie’s very specific best friend’s birthday party standards. Flash left to go get Fluttershy as he flew to her house. He landed and walked in, seeing Static, Mellow, and Fluttershy hugging in the living room. He smiled at the scene as Static saw him standing in the doorway.

“Well look who’s here to see us off.” Static said, slightly smiling.

Fluttershy and Mellow noticed him as they stopped hugging. Flash walked over to Fluttershy and nuzzled her as she smiled and nuzzled him back.

“It was nice to meet you Flash.” Mellow said, smiling at her daughter.

“Likewise Mrs. Lyrca.” Flash said bowing and holding a hoof out.

She smiled and pulled him into a hug. “Remember, it’s Mellow.”

He laughed. “Of course.”

She let go of him as Static walked forward and held out a hoof, which Flash gratefully accepted. “Remember what I said Flash.” He said sternly, looking into Flash’s eyes.

“I will and I promise I won’t.” Flash said as he shook the hoof.

All four of them walked outside and Flash and Fluttershy waved goodbye as Static and Mellow took off, slowly disappearing into the sky.

“What did you promise my dad that you won’t do?” Fluttershy asked as they walked back inside.

Flash’s face turned red. “Nothing… I’ll tell you later.”

She was silent for a moment. “Ok.” She said as she hugged him. “Thank you.”

Flash hugged back. “For what?”

“For everything; my dad, what he did, sticking up for him to Princess Celestia, helping me get through everything lately.” She said, kissing him.

He kissed her back. “It’s not a problem. I’d do it every time.” He said. He glanced at the clock. “Come on, were going to be late to Twi’s party.” He said, giving her one more hug.

She hugged him back. “Hold on, let me go get her gift.” She said as she disappeared up the stairs. Several moments later, she came down holding her wrapped gift.

“If you don’t mind, we’re going to have to make a pit stop at Dash’s house; I have to pick up both mine and Dash’s gifts.”

“What were you and Dash doing?”

“I was asking her for advice.”

“What type of advice?”

“What to get Twi; what are you getting her?”

“I wasn’t sure what to get her so I got her some more parchment and a new book on organizing.” She said with a smile. “What about you?”

“A book on the Alicorn War.”

She stared at him. “The what?”

“I’m not sure; it kinda jumped out at me.” He said.

She nodded and they flew to Rainbow’s house. He offered to carry her gift in his saddlebag and thankfully Dash had hid the necklace underneath the bag of bits so Fluttershy didn’t see it. They picked up the two gifts and headed to Twi’s house. As they got there, they saw the entire town partying. Fluttershy started to freeze up but Flash gently put a wing over her and pulled her closer. She smiled and they continued to the party.

They were surprised to see both Princesses there.

“Mom, Aunt Celestia, what are you doing here?”

“It’s my faithful student’s birthday, of course I’d be here.” Celestia said, with a faint smile.

“Any excuse to visit my son.” Luna said bluntly.

“Mom, you don’t need an excuse to visit me. If you want to stop by, just do so.”

She smiled, embarrassed. “I’ll remember that.”

Pinkie appeared out of nowhere. “Enough with the chit-chat, time to PARTY!” She yelled, with everypony staring at her as Vinyl turned up the music. Flash and Fluttershy headed towards Twi, noticing her surrounded by a group of ponies. When she saw them, she smiled and waved, causing the group to open up and let them through.

“Um… happy birthday.” Fluttershy said her words barely audible over the music.

“Thanks Fluttershy.” Twilight said as she hugged her.

Flash reached into his saddlebag and pulled out all three gifts. He held them for Twi. “Happy Birthday Twi.” He said through the presents. “From me, ‘Shy, and Dash.”

She used her magic to levitate them to her and she opened Dash’s first. Her eyes lit up. “Are these the new quills that I’ve been hearing about?”

“Nothing but the best for our egghead.” Dash said as she hovered above us. She was incased in a purple glow and was pulled down as Twilight gave her a hug. “Easy there Twi.” Dash said, slightly embarrassed as everypony laughed.

Twilight opened Fluttershy’s next and smiled as she saw the new organizing book and the parchment. “Oh my gosh, oh my gosh; this is the new edition. I’ve been waiting for this book.” She said, squealing. She pulled Fluttershy into a hug and Fluttershy looked like she was about to pass out.

“Um Twi, I think she accepts your thank you.” Alli said as Twi noticed Fluttershy. Twi blushed and let her go and she almost fell but Flash caught her. Fluttershy smiled and nuzzled Flash in appreciation as Twi opened Flash’s gift.

Several ponies gasped as Twi got a confused look on her face. “Oh…umm…thank you Flash for the book.” She said, sounding nervous.

“What’s wrong?” Princess Celestia said as she came walking over, a wrapped present in the shape of a book floating next to her. As Celestia saw the book Twilight was holding, her eyes widened. “Who got you this?”

“I did…why, what’s wrong with it?” Flash asked, nervous. Everypony was staring at him.

“Vash, where did you get this book?” Celestia asked, her usual warmth gone.

“I…I got it at the bookstore here in Ponyville.”

Celestia closed her eyes for a moment. “And you can read it?”

“Well yeah, that’s the only reason why I bought it in the first place; it sounded like something Twi would be interesting in.”

“Vash; the book is written in Ancient Magi…there’s only been five ponies to read this, let alone write it.”

“What?” Flash asked, dumbfounded. He looked at Alli. “And you didn’t say anything why?”

Alli shrugged. “I thought she could translate it or something, it is Twi.”

Flash looked at Twilight. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t know. I can go get you something else.”

“No, it’s ok; I’ll consider it a challenge.” She said with determination.

Flash laughed hesitantly. “Well, if you need any help, just let me know.”

Celestia stared at the book, but her usual composure soon came back. “Well, happy birthday Twilight.” She said as she handed the present to Twilight.

Twilight greedily opened the book and gasped, staring at the title. “The Complete Adventures of Star Swirl the Bearded; Princess, there’s only one of these in existence. I can’t accept this.”

“Yes you can; I know how much you look up Star Swirl, so I decided to give you his autobiography. I think it’s better for you to have it then to let it sit in the library collecting dust.” She said with a smile.

Twilight hugged her mentor. “Thank you so much Princess.”

“You’re welcome.” Celestia said, putting a hoof over Twi’s shoulder.

Twi looked around at everypony. “Well, let’s party?” She asked as everypony started applauding and went back to partying.

Vinyl started playing music again as everypony started to dance and Alli took Twi to the dance floor. Everypony made room for them and for Pinkie, who was dancing crazily. Flash saw Celestia and Luna whispering about something and he saw Fluttershy upset at something else. He walked over to her and leaned against her. She froze up till she saw it was him and she leaned into him, her head resting against his.

“You ok?” He asked her.

“Oh I’m fine.” She said.

“Fluttershy, I know your lying, please tell me.”

Her eyes started to water up. “Well…it’s my birthday in a few days…”

“I heard.”

“Pinkie?”

“No, Alli; apparently Twi accidently told him.”

“Oh.”

“So what happened, if I can ask?”

She was silent as she started to cry, her tears silently hitting the floor. He wrapped his front hooves around her and pulled her into a hug, her head resting on his shoulder.

“Shh; you don’t have to say anything if you don’t want to.” He said, running a hoof down her back.

“Thank you.” She said as she kissed him. “I’ll tell you tomorrow, I promise.”

He smiled. “Ok, whenever you want.” He said as he let go of her. She smiled back and nuzzled him, leaning against him as they watched the rest of the party.

A few hours later, Luna had to leave to raise the moon. Before she left, Flash pulled her aside. “Mom, I have to ask you a question.”

“What son?”

He asked her to follow him away from everypony and they went outside. He started to get nervous. “I wanted your opinion on something.”

“What?”

“I’m going to ask Fluttershy to marry me.” He blurted out.

She smiled. “So that’s what has been on your mind. And why did you need to ask my opinion?”

He lightly kicked at the ground. “I wanted to know what you think.”

“Why shouldn’t you?”

“Well… I didn’t know her birthday, or about her parents till I met them. I really don’t know all that much about her.”

Luna laid a hoof on his shoulder. “Vash, you’ve known her for about a month now; you know what she likes, what she dislikes. I don’t know if you noticed, but you’re her pillar, the one pony that she can turn to if there’s a problem.” She smiled sheepishly. “Even though sometimes it’s your thick headiness that gets you into trouble and cause her so much pain.”

“Thanks Mom; just what I need to hear.” He said sarcastically.

“Hold on, I’m not finished. You need to realize that you mean so much to that mare. So what if you don’t know every little detail of her life; that’s what you do after marriage; you learn about each other. I didn’t marry your father and we really never talked about the past before we fell in love.”

“Wow Mom…thanks.” He said.

She laughed. “When you’re stuck on the moon for a thousand years, you tend to do a lot of thinking.”

“I can imagine.” He was silent. “Do you really think it’ll work out between us?”

“I don’t know son, you’re the one that has to figure it out. Now I got to go raise the moon, but I’ll be at the castle if you need to talk.”

He gave her a hug. “Thanks Mom.”

“Anytime.” She said as she hugged back. She then took off towards the castle to raise the moon.

He walked back inside and saw Fluttershy falling asleep as she sat next to the dance floor, watching Alli and Twilight continuously dance. He walked up to her and held out a hoof. “Would my lady care to dance?” He asked.

She giggled. “Sure.” She said as she accepted the hoof and he led her to the dance floor.

They heard Pinkie get on the mic. “Alright, last song of the night and it goes to all you love birds. Get on the dance floor and shake your flanks.” She said as a nice slow song came on.

Alli and Twilight kissed and continued to dance as Flash led Fluttershy around the dance floor. Fluttershy rested her head against Flash’s shoulder like last time. Awhile later, the song ended and Flash noticed everypony was staring at him in Fluttershy as they were oblivious to anypony, just enjoying being together with each other and spending time. Flash noticed that Fluttershy was blushing as he picked her up and flew her over to her set and gently set her down.

“Thank you for the dance, madam.” Flash said as he held her hoof and kissed it.

She laughed. “You’re welcome.”

Twilight stood in front of everypony. “Thank you all for coming. This was probably my best birthday party ever and I have to thank Pinkie.” She said as she clapped her hooves at Pinkie. Everypony soon followed and the room was roaring with applause at the pink party pony as she bowed. “Now it’s getting late and I think everypony should try and get some sleep.” Twilight said as she magically opened the door.

Everypony left, after they all said one final happy birthday. Celestia also bid a farewell, giving Twilight and Flash one final hug before she disappeared. AJ, Dash, Pinkie, Twilight, Alli, Fluttershy, and Flash stayed and put the library back in order as Spike was sleeping on the sofa. Twilight picked up Spike and put him in his basket in her room as the remaining ponies bid each other goodnight. Flash and Fluttershy waved goodbye as Dash, Pinkie, and AJ left to their respective homes. Flash and Fluttershy silently walked back towards her house as the nearby grasshoppers played their music. The moon was high overhead already, the mist encasing the grass and trees.

Fluttershy stopped and leaned against Flash.

“Are you ok?” He asked worriedly.

She smiled up at him. “I’m fine; I’m just enjoying the beautiful scenery.”

He looked around, noticing. “It is pretty romantic.” He said, kissing her. “You know I love you right?”

She smiled. “Yes and you know I do to?”

“Of course.”

They silently watched the moon for a few min until Fluttershy shivered a little. “Can we go home; it’s getting a bit chilly.”

“Sure.” He yawned.

As they walked home, they failed to notice the three silent ponies following them. They entered her house, careful to not wake the sleeping animals. They made their way up to her room and silently slid in bed with each other. He kissed her.

“Good night, Fluttershy.”

She kissed back. “Good night Flash; thanks for tonight, it was wonderful.”

“Anytime.” He said as she snuggled her head against his chest. They both fell asleep soon after, exhausted from the day.

[....]

The unicorn stared at the moon once more, a chilling breeze sweeping the valley he sat in. “Oh Luna, how I miss your embrace.”

“Sir!” Another pony said as he ran up to the sitting unicorn.

The unicorn sighed. “What is it Stakes?”

“They didn’t listen to you, sir; they still sent the Shadow Bolts.”

The unicorn’s red eyes grew. “What?”

“Yes sir, I just overheard them; they said the Shadow Bolts should be in Ponyville by now.”

The unicorn ran towards the cave they lived in. “I’ll kill them!” He yelled.

[....]

Flash slept, dreaming of finally meeting his dad when he forced awake by somepony screaming. He gasped  as he leaned forward and looked around. He quickly noticed Fluttershy crying and screaming in her sleep. He frowned and lightly patted her shoulder.

“’Shy, wake up; it’s going to be ok.”

She woke up, her body shaking in spasms as she cried harder. She stared vacantly at Flash as her mind tried to overcome her nightmare.

“What’s wrong?” He asked, worried. She quickly dove and buried her head in his chest as he wrapped her into a hug; all he heard was her crying as her body shook against his. He didn’t know what to do so he just held her, rocking back and forth. After a few minutes she calmed down, her body not shaking as she still cried into his chest. She looked up at him, tears still falling.

“You’re not going to leave me too right?”

“I’ll never leave.” He said, bending down and lightly kissing her forehead. This sent her crying again, her face hidden. “Shh, it’s going to be alright.” He whispered into her ear. He heard her whimper as he felt her chest steadily rise and fall. He figured she fell asleep again. He worriedly held her, wondering what that was about as he saw the moon slowly lower itself. He glanced at the clock on the nightstand, it read 4:34. He kissed her forehead as she slept troubled, laying on him.

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