Broken Butterfly

Chapters

From Under The Covers
Let Love Speak Up Itself
Song For Whoever
Dream A Little Dream
We Are Each Other

From Under The Covers

Chapter 1 – From Under The Covers

The night was beautiful. The inky black sky was alight with twinkling stars to numerous to count. The moon was her favourite feature though. Maybe it was because it had been her home for so many years, it's lonely beauty never ever ceased to amaze Luna every time she made it rise in the sky. She paused in her flight to appreciate her moon and survey her handiwork. Flaring her magic just slightly she made it shine ever brighter, lighting up the cloudless night sky for a moment almost as bright as the day.

"Why shouldn't I indulge myself?" the Princess of the Night thought to herself with a wry smile.

Presently she had enough of congratulating herself and turned her attention back to the task. There would be plenty of time for lounging around later, right now she had a special job to do. Scanning about the small town below her Luna spied her destination, a small cottage in the very outskirts, a good distance away from other houses. Folding her powerful wings she descended, her thoughts wandering to the soul who called the cottage home. Luna knew her of course, more by reputation and her deeds than anything else, an oversight she was determined to rectify.

Flapping her wings at the last moment, Luna arrested her descent into a perfect landing, standing just outside Fluttershy's modest house. Luna allowed herself a smile as she thought about the sleeping woman inside. A bigger contradiction Luna had still to meet. Fluttershy was at once the shyest, timid, reserved woman in all Equestria while also being one of the most determined, forthright and forceful woman when the situation called for it. Scared of thunder? check. Scared of her own shadow? check. Stare down a dragon? Check. Tame a manticore? Check. Reform Discord? Check, check and triple check. Luna had to admit, Fluttershy was impressive, and not many people ever impressed her. It didn't surprise her in the slightest that she was the bearer of the Element of Kindness. A more fitting role didn't exist in the world.

Now though, it was Luna who would be administering some kindness of her own. It had been three weeks since the death of Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy had been with Dash for just over two years, and it was just over six months ago that Dash had had her accident in the race that left her crippled and which had ultimately lead to her premature death. Fluttershy had married Dash the day before, Luna remembered the wedding was beautiful, simply beautiful. She had been there that day to bear witness, not only to Fluttershy and Rainbow’s happiness but also to her own sense of grief that someone else had beat her to Fluttershy's affections. Since the funeral though Fluttershy was not coping that well. Sure she made a show of being ok to her friends, the other Element bearers, but she couldn't hide in her dreams. And to Luna, dreams were as accessible as an open door to an unguarded room.

Luna alone saw the torment that Fluttershy endured each and every night. The poor woman was so fearful of the recurring nightmares she did everything she could to fend off the inevitable sleep. No matter what though sleep always overcame her, and so to would the nightmares. Every night she relived the race and the crash, blamed herself for making it happen, every night she tortured herself with Rainbows dead form taunting her.

Well no more. Luna would see to that.

Luna recalled that Nightmare Night a couple of years past when a very scared Fluttershy had attempted (and succeeded, to a degree) to teach Luna to speak more softly in an effort to fit in to modern society. Now it was time to repay the favour. Luna may not be able to remove the nightmare altogether but she could enter the dreamscape and make it more bearable. She owed Fluttershy this much.

Standing perfectly still Luna concentrated hard, laying the groundwork for her magic. Reaching out with her mind she sought out Fluttershy's unconscious mind, homing in on it like a shining beacon. With a burst of willpower Luna allowed her astral self to enter the dreamscape. Within a matter of moments she found Fluttershy's nightmare. Prodding slightly as to not be noticed Luna disguised herself as a male Pegasus in the race, one behind Rainbow Dash.

Luna flew along, she could tell the moment was at hand. The Rainboom had erupted from Dash "damn that's impressive" thought Luna, in spite of herself. Now she had lost control, she was crashing to the ground, there was the sickening impact, the shocked silence. Now she saw Fluttershy come gliding down from the VIP box to check on Rainbow. Luna hung back in the crowd around the fallen Pegasus, quietly working her magic. She knew the nightmare would kick in any second, could feel Fluttershy's agitation grow as she subtlety moulded the dreamscape. Shy had landed, scant feet from Rainbow. This was Luna’s moment. Smiling to herself, she released waves of invisible magic over Rainbow’s body.

Fluttershy landed near her fallen love, making her way to Rainbow's immobile body. She stopped suddenly, noticing Rainbow start to move. Familiar terror threatened to overwhelm her as Rainbow slowly stood up, her back to Fluts. Shy found herself unable to move, she knew this bit, knew what was coming next. She mustered the energy for the scream she knew she’d be uttering in a few seconds.

Rainbow turned to face Fluttershy, she was ready for it, she began the long rehearsed scream. It died on her lips almost instantly. Rainbow was whole, it was impossible, Shy couldn't believe it, Rainbow walked over to Fluts, flashing her that cocky grin.

Wait, thought the sun coloured Pegasus, this is wrong……Isn't this wrong? It doesn't feel wrong but, Fluttershy was confused, she should be screaming, but she wasn't, she was smiling at her Dashie.

Dashie. The athletic cyan Pegasus was standing in front of Shy now, whole, unbloodied, as if the crash had never happened. Fluttershy held up her hand and was surprised when Rainbow took it in her own.

“But, Dashie you're dead, aren't you?” The foolish question left Shys lips before she could stop it.

Rainbow didn't answer at first, she simply embraced her girlfriend, wrapping her arms and wings around a totally stunned Fluttershy, pulling her in close as she kissed her full on the mouth, lips meeting with a soft pressure, her tongue pushed slightly at her mouth, asking permission to enter. Shy gave it immediately, surrendering herself to the kiss. After what felt like an eternity Dash released the kiss, gazing intently at Fluttershy.

Luna pumped more of her magic towards the dream couple, further altering the events to her liking.

“Yeah Fluts, you know I’m dead, you helped bury me remember?”

Rainbow held her hands as she started to panic. Calming her with a touch.

“It's ok, really. I meant what I said before I passed, that Sonic Rainboom was just for you sweetheart. You always gave me that extra push I needed, you were always there to support and encourage me.”

“B, but t, that means I killed you!” Shy burst into tears. To her surprise Rainbow laughed gently in her ear.

“No Fluts you didn’t kill me. All you did was love me. That Rainboom, that was me in that instant loving you. With all my heart I loved you when I saw you in the crowd. Hold onto that and remember me, loving you.”

“You don't hate me?” Shy asked in a small voice.

“Fluttershy I love you, I could never hate you, not ever.” Rainbow kissed her again before continuing, “We’re apart now, you have to be strong for me, for us. We’ll be together again soon, so very soon my love.”

“I don't want you to go………”

“I have to, but I won't leave you. I'll always be with you, and we’ll be together again you’ll see. So very soon, sooner than you think.”

Satisfied with her nights work, Luna left the dreamscape.

Fluttershy woke with a start, the dream fresh in her mind. She was confused at first. Every other night for three weeks she’d awoken from the recurring nightmare bathed in her sweat and quaking in terror. This was different. She remembered seeing the crash, flying down to Dashie lying there in the dirt, and then, and then, things had changed. The dream was different somehow, she tried hard to recall it. Dashie was different. Before she had been a creature born of the darkest horror, this time she was just her Dashie.

Her Dashie. That was it! Her Dashie had found her way back to her, had told her it wasn't her fault, she didn't blame her for what had happened. More importantly Dash had told her she still loved her, and that they'd be together again soon. Her Dashie was waiting for her! For the first time in weeks Shy had a smile on her face as she lay back down on the bed and snuggled herself under her covers and went back to a very peaceful sleep.

Outside the cottage Luna took a moment to collect herself. Entering another's dreams always drained her magic a little, and she’d spent more time and more power in this particular dream than most, it had required significant effort to mould the dreamscape to her will this time. However she was confident it had been worth it. Silently she flapped her wings, raising herself to the level of Fluttershy's bedroom window. Magically she moved the curtains ever so slightly, enough to get a peek at the soundly sleeping woman in her bed, the gorgeous pink hair showing from under the covers. Luna could swear she heard Shy’s gentle snores through the window.

Placing a hand on the glass Luna wished her a peaceful sleep, confident that in time this broken butterfly would mend her wings and fly once more.

Flapping her wings a few times Luna soared skyward leaving the cottage behind her to land cross legged on a cloud. Now she could really enjoy the night, reclining on the cloud she thought about the future, her future to be exact, a future she saw herself sharing with a certain butter yellow Pegasus not a thousand miles away.

"You're being foolish Luna," she told herself, "she’d never go for you." Luna fought back the loneliness in her heart as she took flight once more, sharing elegantly through her night sky back to Canterlot castle. "Maybe Fluttershy wouldn't go for me, doesn't mean I can't make her happy."

Back in her cottage, Fluttershy dreamed a new dream, one where she and Dashie were together again. She held her Dashie in her arms as they both looked down on Fluttershy's own funeral procession, then they both smiled together and flew off to whatever awaited them, sure that whatever it was, they'd face it together.

From under the covers, Fluttershy smiled in her sleep, happy at last.

Let Love Speak Up Itself

Chapter 2 – Let Love Speak Up Itself

Celestia’s golden sun rose in the sky, bathing the land in light as Luna reluctantly lowered her moon. As the last vestiges of her night gave way to her sisters morning Luna felt a wave of fatigue wash over her like she hadn't felt before. It was more than exhaustion, she was weary. It was hard for her to put a finger on exactly why, but the Princess was weary. She was lonely, she knew that. For all the people around her in the castle, she was very lonely.

As Luna made her way to her bedchambers to rest after her nights work she noticed the lack of guards at her door, and the doors themselves were open slightly. Instantly alert she nudged the door open a bit more, cautiously looking in her room for any intruder. A familiar voice greeted her entry.

“Come on Lulu, it's only me.” Instantly relaxing at the sound of her sisters voice Luna entered her room and shut the door behind her, scanning the room for her sisters whereabouts. Looking to the balcony she found her older sister leaning against the golden rail, surveying Canterlot below them, her back to Luna.

“What's up Tia? You don't usually break and enter without reason.” She asked as she made her way over to Celestia’s side, her desire for sleep forgotten momentarily.

Celestia didn't answer straight away, she seemed lost in thought. After what seemed an age she turned to face Luna, a stern look on her face as she surveyed her younger sister. “So, about Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy. Even the mention of her name sent a blush roaring towards Luna’s cheeks. Thankfully her dark blue skin hid the worst of it, although she could've sworn she saw Tia smirk at her reaction.

"What about Fluttershy?" She replied, hoping it sounded as casual out loud as it did to herself.

“Anything I should know?”

“Like what?” She knew there was no fooling her sister. Celestia was sharp as a tack, and Luna knew when she was beat. To her surprise Tia was smiling as she turned to face Luna and held her dark blue hand in her own Ivory white ones.

“Like altering her nightmare, giving her peace? Like going back to her cottage three nights in a row and doing the same thing? Or how about hovering outside her window making sure she sleeps soundly while harbouring feelings for her?”

Luna was dumbstruck, had her sister been following her? “How…..?” She began before Tia cut her off.

“I didn't follow you. Didn't have to. I could feel your magic resounding all the way over here. All I'll say is tread carefully Lulu, Fluttershy is delicate at the best of times, she took Dash’s death hard. I know you're trying to help, and you are, I see her in the day. She has a bounce back in her step I haven't seen since Rainbow passed. I urge caution though sis please, don't rush it or you'll both be hurt.”

“Thanks Tia.” Luna pulled her sister into a tight hug.

Miles away in the small town of Ponyville Fluttershy was waking from her slumber. She opened her eyes and stretched with a soft smile. The dream she had enjoyed was vanishing quickly, already it was fading from her memory. The bit she clung onto though was Rainbow. Her Dashie had visited her again. This wasn't like the old nightmares though, to be honest Fluttershy couldn't really remember those anymore. They didn't haunt her sleep like they had done for the past few weeks. Fluttershy didn't know what had happened, or why her dreams had changed. All she knew was her Dashie wasn't angry with her, didn't blame her for her death.

Fluttershy fairly bounced down her stairs, not bothering to change out of her pyjamas, there was no need. She was still on compassionate leave from the animal shelter, there was no where she needed to be, and no one she urgently had to see. The day was hers. Her immediate plan was breakfast, then to get dressed and finally go and meet Rainbow for their dinner date by the lake.

She poured the cereal into her pink bowl, splashed on the milk and sat at the breakfast counter munching away absent mindedly, her still sleepy head in her hand. She smiled a goofy smile as she lost focus, her daydream taking over.

Rainbow was sat on the sofa, a happy smile on her face as Fluttershy swayed over to her. One of Octavia’s cello performances was playing on the radio, Fluttershy extended her hand to Rainbow, who stood, taking it in her own as they danced around Fluttershy’s living room. Lost in the dream Shy didn't notice her bowl shatter on the floor as she danced alone around the room, to music only she could hear.

Rainbow pulled her into a warm embrace as the cello reached its crescendo, planting flirting kisses along Shy’s neck as they danced. Shy giggled as Dash breathed onto her ear, nipping at the lobe gently. “Y’know Fluts, these dates are awesome, I can't wait to be with you again.” Dash breathed in her ear. “You just have to let go, join me I'm waiting for you.”

The daydream faded and Dashie left her dancing alone in her living room, her words playing over Fluttershy’s mind. If she let go, she could be with her Rainbow again. Happiness flooded her as she dressed, pulling on the denim shorts, white t-shirt and running shoes. She paused in front of her mirror to run a brush through her long pink hair. Fluttershy gasped in surprise as she saw her reflection, and Rainbow stood behind her, her arms wrapped around shy’s waist. Kissing her neck gently Dash took the brush from her, combing her hair.

Fluttershy dropped the brush, it fell unnoticed to the floor while she reached behind her, kissing the air. “Not long till we’re together babe.” Rainbow sighed to her gently.

Fluttershy placed the picnic basket on the path outside her door, pausing to close and lock it behind her. Taking up the basket once more she skipped down the path on her way to the clearing on the edge of the Everfree by the lake. She hurried her pace a little, she didn't want to keep her Dashie waiting.

Rounding the corner in the path Fluttershy saw the lake in the distance, the clear crystal blue water perfectly smooth and still. With a slight pang of disappointment she noticed no one was here. She banished it with a quick smile, after all she knew Rainbow would be here soon, she never left anyone hanging.

Sitting on the dry grass at the side of the lake Fluttershy set up the picnic, spreading the old red blanket out, and arranging the food and drink around on it. Kneeling on the very edge of the calm water she absently ran her fingers through it, marvelling at how much the blue water reminded her of her mirror at home. Fluttershy smiled at her reflection, which smiled back.

“Hey Fluts, sorry I'm late.” Came a familiar scratchy voice behind her.

Fluttershy didn't answer, she just smiled as Rainbow’s reflection joined hers in the water, she was here just as she said she would be, hugging her reflection close to her own. The happy young couple sat in each other's arms and wings, savouring the heat of the summers day. Dashie playfully nipped at fluttershy’s ear, nuzzling her neck as she whispered promises in Shy’s ear. The places they would go, the sights they would see, it was all theirs to enjoy once they were together again.

Fluttershy sat alone at the side of the lake, lost in her daydream, holding her Dashie close to her, kissing the air with all the passion she could muster as Rainbow whispered her promises to her. She knew Rainbow Dash was dead, and it hurt more than she cared to admit when she thought about it, but when her Dashie visited her, when she spent time with her like this the pain diminished. When Rainbow visited her Fluttershy found she couldn't think about anything other than being with her Dashie again, that need pushed all other thoughts away.

And Rainbow was always soothing her, always holding her, reassuring her that everything would be alright. Even when Fluttershy had her doubts Rainbow was there to comfort her, whispering her words of comfort that only she could hear.

Fluttershy had been scared when Rainbow had first appeared to her, but that had been days ago. Now she was used to seeing her love, she looked forward to being with her with a longing she couldn't describe. Rainbow’s presence was like a balm that calmed her soul, washed away her grief and sorrow, replacing it with a warmth and happiness she longed for.

As the days had progressed and Dashie had visited her more the wonderful idea had entered her head that she could be with Rainbow forever. All she had to do was take that ultimate step. Then they’d be together always. Rainbow would never leave her again. They had spoken about it when Rainbow had visited her, Fluttershy wanted to be with her more than anything. Dashie had understood when she admitted she was scared, had comforted her and told it was all down to her. There was no rush and Rainbow could wait as long as it took. Heaven wasn't going anywhere, there was a place for Fluttershy here and it was by Rainbow’s side.

Holding onto the reflection of Rainbow, Fluttershy asked her the question she was most afraid of. “Dashie, when I go to be with you, will we be able to visit our friends, like you are now I mean? I couldn't bear the thought of not seeing them again.”

Rainbow smiled gently, calming her nerves with a quick kiss to Fluttershy’s lips. “We’ll be able to visit then anytime you like Fluts, they’ll be happy to see us.”

Fluttershy smiled her biggest smile, before looking seriously at Dashie once more. “They won't be angry with me will they?”

Rainbow stood up, and Fluttershy put her hand in Dash’s. “They love you, they'll understand you want to be with me.”

Fluttershy threw her arms around Dash’s neck, surprising her with a kiss which she hungrily returned, their tongues entwined, sharing dominance. Hesitantly Fluttershy broke the contact, looking at Rainbow lovingly. “Tonight.” She whispered softly. “I'll join you tonight. Will, will you be with me, when, you know, when I do it?” Rainbow nodded her head with a smile, which Fluttershy returned.

Fluttershy practically bounced back home to her cottage, the picnic forgotten and Rainbow’s grave unnoticed. Her spirits had been lifted, her doubts assuaged and her grief pushed out of her thoughts. The certainty of purpose consumed her. Tonight she would take the step and rejoin her Dashie. Tonight her grief would be over. She’d be with Rainbow again, this time forever. She’d never feel loneliness again. She knew Rainbow would help her, she wouldn't be alone when she did it and she would be there for her once the act was complete.

A few hours later

Day was turning to night. Celestia was lowering her sun as her sister Luna raised her moon, illuminating the burgeoning darkness with a pale white light. All across Ponyville the inhabitants were settling down for the night, some relaxed with their televisions, others entertained company. Fluttershy wasn't doing either. She had just finished her letter to her friends. Having signed if she placed it in the yellow envelope and propped it on the kitchen worktop where it would be easily found.

Standing from the stool, she picked it up and carried it to the centre of the living room. Placing the stool carefully she paused to make sure everything was in order. Her doors and windows were locked, curtains drawn. She’d unlplugged the phone from the wall and her mobile was switched off. The last thing Fluttershy needed now we're distractions.

Everything was ready. She was wearing her wedding dress. Rarity had so very kindly took it and spent days cleaning it with her magic before presenting it back to Fluttershy. It was as beautiful as it was the day she wore it to marry Rainbow, and she couldn't think of a better thing to wear for this new start.

Thinking of Rainbow brought the grief back to her mind. Tears welled in her eyes as the times with Dashie ran through her thoughts. Fluttershy missed her more than she knew how to put into words.

Thinking of Rainbow seemed to summon her. With the slightest creak of a floorboard Fluttershy knew she was there. Without turning round Fluttershy held out her right hand. Without hesitation Rainbow took it in her own, keeping Fluttershy steady as she flapped her wings to stand atop the stool. Reaching up with her left hand she checked the rope. The knots were arranged so that any weight on the end would tighten them, any struggles only serving to tighten them more. There wouldn't be any struggling. Fluttershy wanted this. With all her broken heart she wanted this.

Taking a readying breath Fluttershy placed her head through the noose, her free hand pulling her pink hair through allowing it to flow down her back. She stood there on the stool for what felt like an age, breathing steadily, feeling the rough rope around her neck. She knew the moment was upon her. She would have lost her nerve had not Rainbow been there to help her. She was glad she wouldn't die alone.

Rainbow let go of her hand, and flew up to hover by her side. Holding her hands out to Fluttershy she turned to face her, a warm smile on her lips.

“Ready to go Fluts?”

“I'm ready.”

With a tremulous smile, Fluttershy summoned all her courage, knowing there would be no going back. She took Rainbow in a final embrace, a last kiss on her lips as she took a step off the stool and felt the coarse rope tighten around her neck. Her arms fell lifeless to her sides as her weight pulled the noose tight, and unconsciousness claimed her.

Song For Whoever

Chapter 3 – Song For Whoever

Luna awoke from her slumber in the late afternoon, ready to raise her moon that night. She had a particularly good feeling about this night. This was going to be the night she did it. She would reveal herself and her intentions to Fluttershy. She had spent the past few nights watching her sleep, happy that her recurring nightmares had been sorted out. From what Luna had seen of her she certainly appeared happier than she had done in weeks. Sitting on her bed she ran through her plan once more.

Fly down to Ponyville.

Knock on Fluttershy’s door.

Get invited in.

Give Fluttershy her present and declare her undying love.

Luna wrung her hands together, panic building in her breast. Everything was fine until she got to the second part of step four. Princess though she was Luna had no way to gauge fluttershy’s reaction. She knew she was into women, that much was clear from her relationship with Rainbow. Would she reject Luna’s advances? Throw her out of her cottage? Declare it was too soon and suspect Luna of taking advantage? All of these options seemed likely and unlikely at the same time, and Luna could feel herself getting flustered as all the doubt threatened to overwhelm her.

No, she told herself, this was Fluttershy. Even if she rejected Luna, she would do so in a kind and considerate manner.

Looking out of the window of her bedchamber she saw Celestia was lowering her sun. She was up. Luna loved this bit. Invoking her magic she summoned up her moon, watching it rise gracefully into the darkening late evening sky.

Time to go. Standing she picked up her gift, a simple pink rose in a simple yellow box with three butterflies decorating it tied with a dark blue ribbon. Luna knew Fluttershy appreciated the simpler gestures, like herself she wasn't one to take to overblown pomp and unnecessary theatrics. No, simple and understated was the key here. Walking past her mirror she paused to check herself out, although Luna detested the dresses and regalia of the throne room she had made a special effort to really dress down. Grey jeans, black leather jacket and red shirt and black boots. Perfect.

Holding her gift to her chest Luna spread her huge dark blue wings and with a single flap was airborne, soaring out through the open window and on her way to her destination. In a few moments she was a tiny speck, diminishing in the distance.

Unbeknown to Luna her sister watched her fly off. Celestia leaned her head against the glass of her own window, hoping with all her heart that everything might go as Luna had planned. Heaven knew she was due some happiness after her long exile, and as much as she loved her little sister, Celestia really didn't want to have to spend the rest of the night comforting a heartbroken Luna should things not go to plan.

"Good luck sis.” The alabaster Alicorn whispered to the empty room, hoping the gods of fate would heed her.

Luna loved to fly. She took pleasure in the act. Feeling her muscles working, the flow of air over her wings. The sense of freedom was exhilarating, she could see why the Pegasi loved this. Maybe it was her centuries of confinement on the moon, she really didn't know. All she knew was she loved to fly, and she indulged that love on her way to Fluttershy's cottage.

Nearing her destination she folded her wings and began her descent, aiming for the clear path just outside Fluttershy's gate. With a last flap Luna landed gracefully, and hand on the gate to steady herself. Quietly she made her way up the path to the front door. Steeling herself against her nerves she brought up a hand and gently knocked on the door. Luna rocked on her heels slightly, waiting for admission. A moment passed, then two. Still no answer. She knocked again, louder this time. Another moment passed, still she got no response. This puzzled Luna somewhat as she could tell there was a light on in the main room, she could see it through the closed curtains. She made to knock again, then thought better of it. Glancing to the side of the door she saw the curtains were drawn tight together.

Hmmmm.

Taking to her wings once more she flew around the back of the small house, and saw the curtains closed here too. Landing again Luna knocked at the back door, again receiving no response. She flew up to Fluttershy's bedroom window, noticing at once that the curtains here were open, and that the inhabitant was absent from the bed.

Luna descended to the ground floor once more, sense of unease building in her gut. Something was off here, she couldn't put a finger on it, but something about the stillness gave her concern.

Maybe I should take a look? She thought to herself. Luna knocked loudly one last time, not wanting to invade Fluttershy's privacy. Upon receiving no answer to her fourth knock Luna decided to see what was up. A simple apology would clear any misunderstanding later.

Folding her wings to the back of her jacket Luna stood before the ground floor window, and concentrating on the closed curtains she seized them in her magic field. Opening them with a thought she looked through the glass to the room within, and screamed at the sight that greeted her. Cold shock froze her to the spot, made her blood run cold.

Oh no! Oh no no no no no!

Fluttershy was hanging by her neck in the middle of her living room, eyes closed and her face a horrid shade of blue, her limp body swaying slightly.

Blind panic returned movement to Luna, she beat on the glass of the window before she caught herself and remembered she had magic. Focusing on the empty space beside Fluttershy she concentrated all her power to occupying that space, and felt the spell take hold, teleporting her through the wall. Appearing next to Fluttershy, Luna had to fight the urge to gag on the smell that greeted her. Through no fault of her own, fluttershy’s bowels had failed her, if the mess under her was anything to go by. Gingerly Luna reached for her limp wrist, and found she was still warm to the touch, but was alarmed at the lack of a pulse.

Incoherent thoughts rampaged through Luna, how? why? how long had she been hanging here? what should she do? A moment of hesitation later and the singular thought struck her, I need to get help. But where? Where should she take her, what should she do? Indecision paralysed Luna. The answer came in a flash.

Celestia. Anytime she had needed help before she had turned to her big sister. Celestia always solved anything. Celestia would know what to do. Using her magic once more, Luna slackened the thick rope around Fluttershy's neck, all the while extending her magical field around her to keep her as still as she could. Levitating Fluttershy over to the nearby sofa she placed a cushion around her neck, holding it in place with a simple spell. Taking Fluttershy's limp body in her arms her wings flared instinctively before she shut them, it was too far to fly, it would take too long. Canterlot was miles away. Teleport. Luna was unsure of this, she’d never attempted a teleport over this distance before. She had no choice, it was an emergency. Summoning all her power to her, Luna concentrated on Canterlot Castle.

By sheer luck or blind chance Luna appeared outside her bedchamber, ignoring the startled looks on the guards faces as they were suddenly presented with their princess carrying an unconscious woman in her arms she thundered through the doors, and as carefully as she could levitated Fluttershy to her bed, not caring as her sheets were soiled. Grief threatened to overcome her, but first, Celestia, she needed Celestia. Summoning the Royal Canterlot Voice she hardly used anymore she bellowed for her sister.

“CELESTIA! SISTER I NEED YOU, NOW!” Luna screamed, the impossibly loud voice echoing off the walls. She was sure her sister had heard her.

“CELESTIA, NOW!”

Princess Celestia was nestled in her own bed not that far from Luna’s own chambers, having just surrendered to sleep herself. “What the fu……” The curse died on her lips as she bolted upright at the sound of her sister’s terrified screams, propelled into action by Luna’s distress. She couldn't ever recall her little sister screaming like that, not ever. Something was very wrong. Her first thought as she pulled on a robe over her nightgown was that Fluttershy had said no, upset Luna somehow, but her sister seemed to distressed for that.

“TIA! Please……….Please!”

Celestia hurried to Luna’s chamber, grumbling about overreacting under her breath. Her grumble died on her lips as she saw the ashen looks on the guards faces. Something really was wrong, she knew. Entering Luna's chamber she saw Fluttershy's still body on her sisters bed, her face a pale blue colour and the ugly bruise around her neck. Luna herself was knelt by its side, a disheveled crying mess.

“Luna, what in Equestria has happened?”

Luna didn't, couldn't look at her sister, she kept her gaze firmly on Fluttershy. Tears flowed openly down her dark blue face, her voice a mere whisper. “Help her Tia, please!”

Celestia was by the bedside in a heartbeat, appraising what had happened. Reaching for Fluttershy's wrist she felt for a pulse. Finding none she fired a quick burst of magic through her fingers, into Fluttershy's arm, agitating her blood, stimulating her heart. Celestia repeated this a couple more times, until a steady rhythm answered her. Glancing to her chest, Celestia saw it rise and fall ever so slightly. It was a temporary fix, but it would suffice while she summoned the royal physician, Dr. Hooves.

Celestia stood, and concentrated her power on the royal doctor. He had long ago told her she could summon him anytime of the night or day, she only hoped that old promise was accurate. A flash of bright light lit up the dark bedroom, then died away, leaving a bemused looking old man in its wake. Celestia was glad he’d dressed and had brought medical supplies, she hadn't given him that much of a warning.

Dressed in black trousers and frock coat with a white shirt collar visible above the lapels and his white hair smoothed back he wasted little time examining the sun coloured girl on the bed, before turning to Celestia and asking for a little privacy to work. Nodding, Celestia tugged at the still crying Luna, but she wouldn't budge. Taking hold of both shoulders she tried to move her again, still Luna refused to move. Luna only vaguely registered the contact, she was focused. On Fluttershy on her bed.

Celestia had had enough of this. Breathing through her nose she planted a firm look on her face and roughly shook Luna to her feet, taking her sister by the forearm.

“Luna. My room, move, NOW.”

As Celestia practically dragged Luna from her own bedchamber past the confused guards cognisant thought returned to her at last. And with it, a new fear. There had been no mistaking that look on her sisters face. Luna had only seen anger like that from her sister once before, the night she was exiled to the moon. Luna knew she had messed up with Fluttershy, she knew she should never have interfered, and now she was going to pay for it. Blind terror coursed through her as Celestia pulled her into her room. Luna was crying again, flailing at her sisters arm, trying to get away. It was no use, celestia's grip was like iron. Slamming her door behind her Celestia deposited Luna on her bed and stood before her little sister.

“Luna.” She said her name a little more harshly than she intended.

Luna raised her head to look at her sisters stern face, she fell apart. Falling to her knees she clawed at celestia's leg, her tears falling freely, half formed sentences tumbling from her mouth.

“T, Tia, please don't send me away, not there please! I beg you no!”

“Lu…….”

“ Please Tia, I know I messed up! I shouldn't have interfered, you warned me not to.”

“Lu…Wha?”

“Punish me but please don't send me away again!”

“Luna.”

“I deserve it but I don't want to go, not there, not again………..please Tia……please don't.”

Celestia stood there stunned, she could no longer make out intelligible words from her sister, Luna had dissolved into hysterical wails and sobs, broken at her feet. Cold realisation dawned upon her.

No, surely Luna couldn't be serious? The evidence argued against her. Fluttershy had tried to kill herself, and my own sister is so scared of my reaction she really thought I'd banish her?

Am I so awful I inspire such terror in my own sister? She thought awkwardly.

Well, you do have a precedent for that said a nasty voice in the back of her mind. Hurriedly Celestia wiped that thought away. That mistake would forever be her eternal shame, the night she failed her little Luna.

Looking down now at the broken mess that was her sister Celestia's heart melted for her. How could she ever think she would punish her for trying to help someone else? Gently Celestia removed herself from Luna's grasp, and knelt by her sister, wrapping her up in her arms. Slowly, carefully, she whispered in Luna's ear.

“ Lulu, I'm not sending you anywhere. You're my little sister and you're staying right here, with me.”

Luna processed what she had heard, gradually her tears subsided enough to allow her to speak.

“You, you mean it?”

Celestia wiped away Luna's tears with the back of her hand, smiling as she did so.

“Of course I mean it, you're my sister and I love you.”

“But, what I did, what I made Fluttershy do……… That's my fault……. I made her do that to herself!”

“Lulu, you tried to help Fluttershy, and you did help her. You couldn't predict her actions any more than anyone else could have.”

They were interrupted at that point by a polite knock on the door, and Doctor Hooves entered.

Celestia looked up from her sisters shoulder and addressed the venerable doctor.

“How is she?”

“She, miss Fluttershy, is alive, barely I might add. She is very lucky she was found as quickly as she was.”

Luna looked up at the doctor, a smile of gratitude on her lips.

“Allow me to continue, please princesses. While her physical condition is fine, apart from the injury to her neck which has resulted in a damaged set of vocal chords, I am more concerned with the state of her mind.”

Luna's smile died, what did they mean?

“To put no finer point on it, majesties, miss Fluttershy's mind is fractured, shattered. Given the amount of stress she had been under recently this is no small wonder. You can see her if you wish, but you'll get no response from her. She is in a catatonic state, and I don't know how to reach her.”

Dream A Little Dream

Chapter 4 – Dream A Little Dream

“You want me to what?”

The doctor had taken his leave, and Celestia and Luna were sat on two small chairs in Luna's bedchamber, both staring intently at the unmoving Fluttershy laid on Luna's bed. The doctor had been correct, she was alive. Breathing and blinking, but otherwise completely catatonic. They had tried different stimuli, all to no avail.

Now the sisters were sat side by side, Luna couldn't believe what Celestia had just suggested. She shot a sideways glance at her older sister to see if she was joking, unlikely as that was. Her heart sank as she realised she wasn't joking.

“You want me,” Luna spoke slowly and carefully, making sure she had it right. “To use my magic to enter Fluttershy's mind, and do what, exactly? Oh yes that's it, ‘repair the damage.’” She couldn't keep the sarcasm from her voice.

Celestia bowed her head, eyes closed. “Yes.”

Luna shot to her feet, outraged at her sisters simple reply. “It's not that easy Tia! You have no idea what you're asking!”

“You've entered her mind before.”

Luna couldn't believe what she'd just heard. “This won't be like before. Her mind is fractured, shattered to pieces! Fluttershy isn't even asleep, I would have little or no power in there, certainly no control to the degree you're suggesting.”

“You have to try.”

“And why is that, exactly?”

"Because you love her.”

That was it. Celestia had played the ace from her hand. Luna knew she was right.

“That was low Tia. You get one of those, ever. You just used yours. Seriously though, are you even aware of the dangers involved?” Luna pointed to Fluttershy's head for emphasis. “Anything happens in there, any pain or injury, the body reflects it. Understand?”

Celestia nodded slowly, getting Luna's meaning. “You die in there, you die here?”

Luna shot her sister a look as she laid down on the bed next to Fluttershy. “Yep. Now, once I begin you won't be able to do anything, so get comfy. I'll try not to be too long.”

With that, Luna took Fluttershy's yellow hand in her dark blue one and concentrated her magic, drawing her power to open the door onto the Pegasus' damaged mind. It was made easier having an established connection already. There was resistance, Luna knew there would be, damaged as it was Fluttershy's waking mind was fighting her entry. Luna turned up her power just a little, winning the little battle of wills.

Just a little more……ah there we are.

She was in, Luna felt her astral self leave her physical form and flow much like a formless river towards Fluttershy's temple.

For what felt like an eternity everything was dark, pitch black nothingness. Luna pushed herself to her feet, feeling the resistance of a floor beneath her. Standing up she tried to survey her surroundings, but there was nothing. The darkness was oppressive, pressing upon her from all directions at once. She stumbled slightly, fighting the nausea of the transfer. Putting one foot in front of the other she hesitantly tried to explore her new environment.

"Hello Princess."

The voice stopped Luna cold in her tracks, rooted her to the spot. She knew that voice. It was Fluttershy's voice, but it wasn't the same. This was a cold, confident voice with a domineering edge Luna had never heard from Fluttershy's mouth. The wave of nausea hugged her again, forcing her to shake her head to try and clear it. Luna heard footsteps coming towards her, felt a hand stroking her night black hair.

“Don't worry about the woozy. It'll soon pass. Sorry by the way.”

The disembodied voice sounded anything but sorry, Luna was still trying to process what was happening as the hand stroking her hair suddenly clenched, pulled back sharply and without warning thrust her head into the wooden wall inches from her face. Pain exploded across Luna's skull, stars danced across her vision. She was unconscious before she hit the floor.

Fluttershy reached down, grabbed hold of Luna's limp arms and dragged her back towards the wall. Pulling down the chains hanging from the wall she clicked the handcuffs closed around each wrist, securing Luna to the wall. Roughly she propped her into a half seated position then turned on her heel and stalked away from the prone form of Luna slumped on the floor.

Fluttershy let out a derisive snort, “Pathetic.” She sneered.

Consciousness slowly returned to Luna, and with it the throbbing pain in her skull. Focusing through it she took stock of her surroundings. The room was brighter, illuminated by a series of overhead lights. Wood panels adorned the walls and floor, a simple leather three seated sofa was about ten feet in front of her. With unease she noted the set of carving knives and gun on one of the seats. She tried to turn her head and regretted it as she fought the urge to be sick. Luna could hear a soft whimpering to her right, but didn't want to risk turning to see what was causing it. She tried moving her arms, and found they were secured to the wall behind her by the handcuffs on her wrists.

Great Luna, Well done. She admonished herself, then attempted to summon her magic to free her arms and was dismayed to find nothing happening. She had feared this. Perfect. Powerless and trapped in a fractured psyche. She shook the chains in a futile attempt to free herself, then slumped to the floor realising it wasn't going to happen.

Footsteps to her left brought Luna out of her reverie.

“Ahh we’re finally awake are we?”

That voice. The cold, confident voice so similar to Fluttershy's but different at the same time. She sauntered in front of Luna, stopping to admire the stunned look her captive gave her. She was Fluttershy, blue jeans, white t shirt, pink hair, everything. She was Fluttershy. Although with a few differences, Luna noticed as she looked harder. Her skin was a darker yellow, her wings were sharper, and there were black streams through her pink hair. Her face looked like Fluttershy's face, except the eyes. Her eyes held none of the kindness Luna had fell in love with, no these eyes promised nothing other than malice.

Luna heard the whimpering to her right again, and tried and failed once more to turn and face the sound. The Fluttershy in front of her exhaled a frustrated sigh and walked past Luna.

“Fluttershy will you please shut up?” What? Luna had to check her hearing, then involuntarily winced as she heard the smack of an open palm striking skin. The whimpering ceased immediately.

The Fluttershy walked back into Luna's field of vision, a satisfied smirk on her lips as she seated herself next to the knives on the sofa. “That's better, I do so hate whining bitches.”

“Fluttershy?” Luna could contain herself no more. “What in Tartarus is going on?”

The Pegasus on the sofa now held a bored expression on her face, and in a tone that said she was explaining something very simple to someone very stupid, said; “Isn’t it obvious princess? You are inside my mind, my mind is broken apart, hence there's me here,” she indicated herself, “and there's a me over there too.” She finished, pointing at the wall near Luna. This time Luna made the effort to turn her head and gasped as she indeed saw another Fluttershy, this one on her knees, head bowed with a hand covering a rapidly growing bruise on her cheek and a heavy looking metal collar around her neck chained to the wall.

“You're both Fluttershy?”

The Fluttershy on the sofa still looked bored as she spoke again. “Yes and no, I suppose. We're aspects of Fluttershy. That garbage over there is Kindness, and I, well I suppose you can call me Cruelty.”

Taking this in, Luna couldn't help but drift her gaze to the collection of knives and the gun at Cruelty’s side. Noticing where Luna was looking Cruelty let out an evil snigger. Taking two of the carving knives in her hand she stood and made her way over to where Luna was bound. Taking one in her left hand she slit the arms of Luna's jacket, allowing the garment to fall to the floor behind her.

Panic overcame Luna, and she thrashed about in the handcuffs, trying in vain to find an escape.

"Hold still princess."

Luna ignored her and redoubled her efforts, thrashing and pulling at the chains all the more. Quick as a flash there was a knife at her throat, halting her escape attempts immediately.

“That's better. Now, place the backs of your hands against the wall and keep them there.”

Hesitantly Luna stretched her arms out, and did as she was told. Cruelty shifted her grip on the knife in her left hand, placing the tip of it against Luna’s palm. Without warning she thrust it forward, straight through Luna's hand and burying the blade up to its hilt in the wall behind. Luna's scream shattered the quiet of the room they were in, her pain so intense she didn't notice Cruelty had pressed the other knife to the Palm of her other hand.

Too late Luna registered what was happening.

"Please……..N, no…….please don't….” Her voice failed her, then came back in an almighty scream that rivalled the first as Cruelty repeated her action with the knife, skewering Luna's hands to the wall.

Cruelty turned on her heel and made her way back to the sofa, a warm smile on her lips. She addressed Luna as she sat herself down.

“I did say hold still. Now, I would imagine those sting a bit. Best not to move too much if I were you.”

Luna lifted her head up to look at Cruelty mocking her. “Why?” Was all she could muster through the pain.

“Why? Because I'm cruel, and because I can.” She answered as if it was obvious. Taking up a smaller pairing knife from the seat she stood again and slowly walked toward Luna.

Her eyes grew wide with fear as she saw the smaller knife, an involuntary flex of her arms sent fresh waves of pain through her hands. Small streams of blood began to flow around the blades.

“F, Fluttershy…..h, h, help me, please…………..PLEASE!”

Cruelty stopped, amused. “I am Fluttershy…..Oh, you meant her?” She jerked her head towards Kindness. She walked over to her bound double, and lowered herself to look her in the eye. “You aren't going to help anyone are you? Kindness whimpered and shook her head meekly. “Pathetic.” Cruelty stood and placed a hard kick square in her doubles gut, causing her to retch on the floor. “And to think, the princess here loved you enough to come here and try to help you.”

Back in front of Luna, Cruelty wrapped her arms around Luna's neck, and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. “What do you say princess, still want some of this?”

Luna turned her head towards Kindness. “Fluttershy I love you!” Luna thought she saw Kindness look up at her, with what, recognition, understanding? She didn't know. Panting through the pain, Luna repeated herself. “I…..love…..you, Fluttershy…”

"Awwwwww, ain't that just the sweetest thing?” Cruelty mocked, drawing the smaller blade over Luna's right arm. Luna looked away, determined not to scream this time as the knife cut her again and again, carving letters into her flesh. Eventually she stood back to admire her handiwork. Luna looked to her ruined arm, saw “FLUTTERSHY” etched into her skin. Tears streamed openly down Luna's face. She made no effort to stop them. She knew she had failed.

“Fluttershy….I, I love you…….I, I’m sorry.”

“Stop it.” The delicate, soft voice rang out across the room. Kindness had gotten to her feet, looking at Cruelty.

“What did you say?” Cruelty stood disbelieving, staring at Kindness.

“I said, stop it. That's enough!” Her voice soft as ever, carried a newfound determination.

Cruelty laughed, a mocking sound. She struck Kindness again, sending her to her knees once more. “Stay down this time.”

A whimpered “meep” was all she got in response.

Between the pain in her arm and her blood on the floor Luna hadn't noticed Cruelty make her way back over to the sofa, it took her a full few seconds to realise she wasn’t alone there anymore. A second figure was sat next to her. At first she thought it was another aspect of Fluttershy, but on closer inspection she saw it was a different person entirely. The orange Pegasus flicked her hair out of her eyes casually, smiling up at Cruelty as she sat beside her. Shocked recognition coursed through Luna, though powerless and pinned to the wall there was nothing she could do other than utter her name.

“S, Scootaloo?”

Cruelty smiled at Scootaloo. “Say hello to princess Luna Scoots.”

Scootaloo smiled over to Luna, she seemed totally oblivious to her predicament, merely waving at her and greeted her with a cheery “Hi Luna!”

This wasn't happening surely?

Cruelty whispered something to Scootaloo, who nodded her head in an agreement. Bouncing off the sofa she trotted over to Luna, stopping and kneeling before her halfway between her and the sofa, her back to Cruelty.

Behind her Luna saw Cruelty pick up the handgun, a Taurus Judge revolver, looking it over lovingly. “You recognise this don't you Kindness?” A meep gave her her answer. “Tell your girlfriend there who it is, and why you named it so.”

Kindness raised her soft voice once more, looking at Luna this time. “It's called Helian, a Saxon word meaning to cure, heal and save. I use it in the Everfree, not all the animals are friendly.” Lowering her gaze to the floor, she added quietly, “I'm sorry princess.”

Cruelty was stood behind Scootaloo, a knife in one hand, the gun in the other. “How old are you, Scootaloo?”

“13.” She chirped happily.

“Can you fly?”

“No Fluttershy, I can't.” Her face clouded a bit at this, but quickly regained its happy smile.

“Pegasi should be flying competently by your age Scoots, shouldn't they?” Scootaloo nodded, and Cruelty placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

Luna could see where this was going, but was powerless to stop it.

“She's been bullied and ridiculed for years because she can't fly. Her suffering makes her miserable. The kindest thing to do with a wounded animal is put it out of its misery, right? So, Luna. You get to chose. The knife, or the gun?”

She isn't serious? Good lord she is!

Luna was stunned into silence, her scrambled brain refusing to accept the scene in front of her.

"By the count of three you make a choice princess.” Cruelty stated coldly as she loaded the five .45 colts into the chamber, clicking it shut and spinning it.

“One.” She stood at the side of Scootaloo and pulled the hammer back.

“Scootaloo RUN! Get out of here!” Luna screamed at her, the orange teenager just knelt there, oblivious as ever.

“Two.” Cruelty took aim and rested her finger on the trigger.”

“Scoots please……please….just go, run now!”

“Three.” The trigger was squeezed, the .45 colt was fired through the barrel. An instant later it entered the back of Scootaloo’s head, turning most of it to mush, thrusting her forward onto what was left of her face, showering brain matter, bone and blood at Luna's feet. She tried to lift her feet off the floor, but couldn't, the knives in her hands wouldn't let her. She was forced to stand in the growing puddle of still warm blood.

"There, now wasn't that kind?”

Luna couldn't process it, her brain had gone sideways. She had come to help repair Fluttershy’s mind, now she was losing her own. Cruelty was winning, no, Cruelty had won. Luna knew she couldn't take anymore.

“Now, your turn princess. What would you prefer, knife or gun?”

Luna was vaguely aware she was being spoken to, something about a knife or gun. She looked at Cruelty, saw her life ending in the next few minutes. This wasn't how she saw herself bowing out. Luna nodded towards the gun. Of the two options, this at least sends the least painful.

Cruelty raised the gun, and pulled back the hammer as she took aim at Luna.

“Stop this! She doesn't deserve this, Luna only came to help!” Kindness had found her feet once more, imploring Cruelty to reconsider.

Smiling slyly, Cruelty lowered the revolver. Walking over to Kindness she removed the metal collar from her neck, freeing her. Seizing her roughly by the back if the neck Cruelty dragged her in front of Luna, shoving her roughly to her knees, slashing the puddle of Scootaloo as she hit the floor.

“You need a ringside view for this, I don't want you to miss a thing. Look her in the eyes as I shoot her.” Cruelty raised the gun once more, Luna stared straight down the barrel.

“F, Fluttershy, I, I love you. I wanted to tell you for days. I, I’m sorry.” Luna closed her eyes, preparing for the bullet to come. She heard the hammer pulled back again, heard the click as it fell into place. Her life was measured in heartbeats. Not long now.

Luna heard the loud crack as the trigger was pulled. The extra pain didn't come, her heart was still beating. Hesitantly she opened her eyes, saw Kindness stood in front of her, her left arm hanging by her side. She had taken the shot meant for Luna. Slowly Kindness took a step forward, towards Cruelty. For the first time Luna saw shock and surprise on her face.

"What are you doing? Get back, get away from me!" Cruelty raised the gun, fired, hit Kindness in her right thigh. She dropped to the floor with a whimper. She pushed herself to her feet, using her own wings to bring herself upright. Kindness flapped them slightly, closing the distance between her and Cruelty.

Bringing the gun up again, Cruelty fired for a fourth time, hitting Kindness in the right wing this time. With a loud thud she hit the floor again, still she refused to stay down. Pushing with her right hand she shakily got to her feet, stumbling with her wounded right leg. She was almost point blank with Cruelty now.

"Why won't you stay down?”

Kindness reached her arms around Cruelty, kissing her cheek tenderly. “Because I love you.”

The muzzle of the gun pressed up against Kindness’ belly, Cruelty fired her last colt into her. This time Kindness didn't fall. She placed her left hand over her wound, still held on to Cruelty with her right. Smiling she kissed her again.

“You don't get it, do you? You can't stop me Cruelty. Know why? I'm kind. I'm compassion. I am Fluttershy. You are a part of me Cruelty. I've always accepted you are a part of me. You are a part of who I am, but I won’t give in to you. I am Fluttershy and this butterfly isn't broken anymore.”

She gave Cruelty a final kiss goodnight as the room began to evaporate, slowly and gradually fading to reveal princess Luna's bedchamber.

Fluttershy opened her eyes, blinking a few times as she looked about the room, the luxurious bed she was laid on. She propped herself up on her shoulders, releasing Luna's hand from her own as she did so. Then she noticed princess Celestia sat beside the bed, and the unusually grave look on her face as she watched the bed, her expression hadn't changed as Fluttershy had awoken. Fluttershy looked across to Luna laid out next to her, she was still out, although she was coming around.

“I love you Fluttershy.” Luna mumbled in semi consciousness.

"Oh my……..”

Fluttershy placed her right hand back in Luna's left, flinching as she noticed the ugly scar on the palm and back, trembling at the memory of the carving knife pinning her to the wall. A quick check on her other hand revealed its sister scar, mementos of their ordeal. Fluttershy hugged Luna's still waking body to her as Celestia looked on, clearly concerned and waiting for answers.

Fluttershy knew there would be a rough few days ahead, but for now she kissed Luna's cheek tenderly and held her as she woke up.

We Are Each Other

Chapter 5 – We Are Each Other

Twenty four hours later.

Fluttershy was sat on the sofa in her room of the castle, reflecting on the last day of her life. It was late afternoon and it would have been cold were it not for the fire raging in the grand fireplace. Though not as opulent as Luna's chambers it was by no means sparse. Fluttershy wasn't interested in the décor though, she was staring into the flames, lost in her thoughts as the heat washed over her.

She recalled waking, if waking was the right term as she hadn't really been asleep. Fluttershy preferred to think of it as waking. She had awoke to consciousness on Luna's bed, the princess's hand in hers, the mumbled declaration of love on Luna's lips. She had hugged and kissed the princess as she herself stirred awake. Fluttershy remembered flinching as she squeezed Luna's hand, as she discovered those terrible scars on her hands. She remembered everything she had put Luna through while in her head, every torment she had inflicted, every second of pain Luna had endured along with the knowledge it was fully her fault.

She had caressed Luna's cheek as she had woken up, intent on caring for her, to put it right in some small manner. Then Luna had focused on Fluttershy, seeing her for the first time. As long as she lived Fluttershy promised herself she would never forget the look on Luna's face as Fluttershy had touched her cheek. Luna had shrunk away from her touch, a scared terrified look on her face, her wide eyes flickering in all directions. She looked less like royalty and more like a wounded cornered animal desperately seeking an escape. Fluttershy had tried to comfort Luna, but the more she tried the more frightened Luna had become, until she looked as though she would pass out from sheer terror.

Celestia had intervened then, placing a single hand on fluttershy's shoulder, motioning her to get off the bed. Even this backwards action had elicited whimpers of panic from the stricken princess. Only when Fluttershy was a good two feet from the bed did Luna's breathing return to somewhere near a normal rate, her panic subsiding as her sister sat next to her.

Fluttershy wanted with all her heart to reach out to Luna, but Celestia held her still in her gaze. Fluttershy briefly met her eyes. There was no anger, no hate in Celestia's visage. Her countenance was unreadable. A small shake of her head told Fluttershy not to try again. Celestia's voice, kinder than she had any right to expect, requested she leave together for now, to find the chambers she was in now and to wait for her once there.

Fluttershy had of course fled the room like a scalded rat, and immediately secured herself in this room. Celestia had given no hint as to how long she should wait, and Fluttershy certainly wasn't going to push her luck by asking anyone. She was certain there would be punishment given out at some point, and that Celestia was taking her time devising a suitable one to fit the crimes she had committed yesterday.

My crimes. The thought sent a shiver through Fluttershy despite the warmth of the fire. She began to list them in her head. Kidnap, false imprisonment, GBH, assault, murder, attempted murder, and probably a few others she couldn't imagine. Then her imagination took a stroll along the path of whatever punishment Celestia had in mind for her. Exile? Banishment? Prison? Execution? Fluttershy knew Celestia was benevolent but she had to have her limits, surely? And Fluttershy had tortured her sister. She had to admit her situation looked pretty bleak.

That was the worst part of being made to wait here, in this gilded cage of a bedchamber. The 'not knowing' was driving Fluttershy crazy. She'd rather get it over with, but was in no position to hurry things along.

So here she was, sat on this sofa, being warmed by the fire in front of her. She hadn't seen or heard from anyone at all for a whole day. The thought of flying out the window had occurred to her, but she would be hunted and returned here anyway so she saw little point in trying it.

Presently there was a knock at her door, snapping Fluttershy out of her reverie. It opened as she looked up to reveal princess Celestia, still dressed in her simple nightgown and robe. She walked over to the sofa, taking a seat beside Fluttershy. She turned to take in the yellow Pegasus next to her, Fluttershy felt like she was being inspected. Celestia's face gave nothing away, no hint to what her mood was or how she felt about Fluttershy. Under her scrutiny Fluttershy couldn't help but avert her eyes, casting them anywhere but at the Alicorn sat next to her. After a few minutes of silence Celestia opened her mouth to speak at last.

Fluttershy cut her off. “Princess Celestia, before you begin, may I say that I accept full responsibility for my actions yesterday, and that I am prepared to accept any judgement you wish to lay upon me…….I am, deeply ashamed of what I did, and I am willing to accept any punishment you deem necessary.” Fluttershy finally looked Celestia in the eye, and found she was still unreadable.

“You are aware of the maximum penalty for the crimes to which you confess?” Celestia's voice was soft, even. Not a trace of anger.

Fluttershy nodded slowly, tears forming in her eyes. “I am, princess.”

Celestia gave a very small smile, “Then in my capacity as princess of the sun and co-ruler of Equestria, I forgive you.” Her smile widened at the look of shock on Fluttershy's face.

“What?, but I, I mean, why?”

“Fluttershy if I were to judge you for the events of yesterday than I would have to judge myself as well.” At Fluttershy's puzzled look she continued. “I insisted Luna enter your mind. She warned me of the risks involved, but still I pushed her. She would have done it anyway I think, but I insisted. That guilt lies with me, and me alone.”

“Why would princess Luna have done it anyway?”

“Because she felt responsible for you.”

Fluttershy was confused. “Responsible, how?”

“Luna felt responsible for the attempt you made on your own life. Luna knew you were plagued by nightmares following Rainbow Dash’s death. She used her magic to enter your dreams and alter them, to give you peace. In doing so she inadvertently set you on a path that led to your attempted suicide.”

Fluttershy was stunned. Luna had tried to help her?

“Why would she do that?”

“Isn't it obvious? Luna loves you. Has done ever since she saw you in the gardens at the Grand Galloping Gala. I told her to go and say hello but she was too scared, so she watched you from the shadows.”

“She was scared, of me?” Fluttershy found that hard to believe, even her birds weren't frightened of her.

“You must understand, that night wasn't long after you and your friends had purged the taint of Nightmare Moon from Luna, she was still adjusting after her thousand year exile. Which is another reason I cannot judge you Fluttershy. You see I have caused more hurt and pain to my sister than you ever could.” A single tear rolled down Celestia's cheek.

“Princess?”

“You don't know the full story of Nightmare Moon do you?”

Fluttershy shook her head, beyond the official history no one knew anything.

Celestia took a breath, steadying herself. “Nightmare Moon was my fault. I created her. Luna was jealous of me you see. I created the day, and everyone basked in my sun, enjoying it, partying, celebrating and living their lives. I relished the attention. Then Luna would make the night. Oh she put so much effort into her night sky. It was beautiful to behold. But nobody played in her night. They shut themselves away to sleep. It broke her heart. She came to me many times, asking if I could help her. I ignored her. Told myself she was being silly. A resentment ate at her heart like a cancer, it slowly turned her into Nightmare Moon under my very eyes and I didn't see it happen.

Then came the day she refused to lower the moon. I battled her, reluctantly yes but I battled her. You know the rest, I won, if you can call it a victory. I exiled my own little sister to the moon. All she did was to ask for a little attention, from me, from everyone, and I punished her in the worst way possible. So you see, we aren't so different, you and I.”

Somewhere during Celestia's recitation Fluttershy had moved closer to her and held her arm around her, pulled her into a warm embrace. Without thinking she kissed Celestia's forehead gently.

"What was that for?”

Fluttershy smiled, “sometimes we all need to be shown a little kindness.”

Celestia sat up straight, extricating herself from Fluttershy’s gentle hold. A tremulous smile played across her lips. “Yes, yes we do. Now, one final thing I must ask you Fluttershy, and I would ask for an honest answer please. Do you love Luna?”

Fluttershy didn't have to think on her reply. Yes, she did. She knew she missed Rainbow terribly, but she also knew Dashie wouldn't want her to be lonely forever. Fluttershy had been given something to live for, and she had to seize it while the opportunity presented itself.

“Yes princess, yes I do. I love Luna.” Fluttershy felt good rolling those three words over her tongue, although she noticed a new sad look in Celestia's eyes as she said it.

A heartfelt sigh escaped Celestia's lips. “Then I truly fear for my sister. There will come a day when you will hurt her so much, when you will cause her so much grief and pain. And there is nothing anyone can do to prevent it.”

"B, but I won't, I love her, I, I don’t ever want to hurt her.”

A wan smile was her reply. “You will age, Luna will not. She will outlive you. As sure as I will raise the sun tomorrow Luna will bury you, and her heart will break.” Celestia placed her hand on Fluttershy's lips to stifle her reply, before continuing. “But between now and then, I want you to make my little sister happy. Give her every ounce of kindness in your soul, give her every day like it was the last day.”

Fluttershy nodded silently, fighting back her own tears, before a horrified look took over her face. “Princess, what, what about Scootaloo? If you have spoken to Luna about what happened, you know about her?” Fluttershy began to weep anew, fresh tears falling down her face.

Celestia laughed softly, a gentle peal broke through Fluttershy's tears. She couldn't understand why the princess was laughing, after all she had shot a defenceless teenager. “Fluttershy, Scootaloo isn't dead, she's perfectly alive. As soon as Luna told me everything that happened I checked with the school and her parents. She stayed home today, something about waking up with a very painful headache.” Fluttershy tried to suppress the giggle, and failed miserably.

“Now,” Celestia continued, standing from the sofa as the fire died out, “Go and see Luna, she has been asking after you for hours. Remember what I said, make her happy. And please, from now on, call me Tia.”

“Yes prin……….Tia.” Fluttershy quickly corrected herself with a smile as Celestia shot her a mock stern look over her shoulder. Then she quickly hurried to Celestia's side as she held the door open for Fluttershy.

The princess gave her a gentle push towards Luna's door then made her way in the opposite direction, Celestia's words echoed in Fluttershy's mind “make her happy.”

Fluttershy approached Luna's door, knocking softly before she entered. Luna was laid in her bed, the sheets pulled up around her, she looked to be sleeping. Fluttershy made her way over to her bed, a gentle flap of her wings brought her up to sit beside Luna. The disturbance roused Luna from her slumber, her eyes fluttered open and she smiled up at Fluttershy sat beside her.

“Hey princess.” Fluttershy greeted her with a smile, not wanting to get close in case Luna panicked again. “I, I'm sorry for what happened before.”

Luna returned her smile, sitting herself up in her bed she made to take Fluttershy's hand in her own, this time it was the Pegasus who pulled away, flinching at Luna's touch.

"Your hands, I, I can't believe I did that to you, I'm so sorry.”

Luna reached up to Fluttershy’s face, running her hand over her cheek. “Its ok Fluttershy, really.” This time Fluttershy didn't flinch away.

Fluttershy reached up, took Luna's hand in her own, holding it in place, her fingers running over the scars. Fluttershy brought Luna's hand to her lips, asking the question with her eyes. “May I?” Luna nodded hesitantly. Fluttershy gently kissed her hand, kissed the scars.

“So, um, where do we go from here?” Fluttershy asked, still holding Luna's hand.

“Would you stay with me, here tonight, just hold me?”

Fluttershy nodded silently, lowering herself next to Luna and rested her head on the princesses shoulder. “What about the moon?”

“Tia's doing it, said we needed ‘alone time’. Hope she wasn't too hard on you?”

"Not at all, we helped each other I think.” She kissed Luna's shoulder. “Thankyou Luna.”

Luna frowned slightly. “For what?”

“For finding me in my cottage, for saving me. For loving me.”

Luna held her reply as the moon was raised in the sky for that night. It was breathtakingly beautiful. Especially Celestia's added element. There, on the shining white face of the moon were Luna and Fluttershy's faces in profile with a little heart between them. Fluttershy saw it with a gasp.

“It's beautiful, thank you princess.”

“Lulu, please. No formalities between girlfriends. After all, we are each other.”

They spent the rest of the evening and night like that, their first night of many together. Held in each other's arms, enjoying their company with the moon and stars. Fluttershy sighed a contented sigh into Luna's shoulder and smiled. Everything really was going to be just fine.