***My Little Pony: Friendship is magic is owned by Hasbro. This is a fan created story using copyrighted characters without permission for non profit uses. I do not claim ownership for any characters except my own.***
***The following is not my opinion or view as to how others should be treated, mainly a thought that was in my head for months that I finally put into writing. Please view it as just that, a story I decided to write. Thank you for your time.***
...
Gilda ran through the Everfree Forest as fast as any griffon would with several metallic BBs punctured into it's wings. That manticore had barely slowed down the fast moving mob of frenzied animals behind her. She could hear the huge beast beginning to fail in its efforts to fight back the hoard she had, by shear luck, lead to it. Its shrieks of pain quickly being overtaken by the roars of blood thirsty rage, grinding at the very nerves on Gilda's spine. Forgetting the pain in her wings she double timed her pace. She wasn't even a match for a manticore, and not a few hundred feet behind her one was being turned into hamburger!
“What the hell are these things?” Gilda thought out loud as she started to see the quaint little cottage on the outskirts of Ponyville; her intended target and last hope for survival.
...
Fluttershy finished putting the rest of her animals to bed for the night. Luckily, the nocturnal ones she housed were just a few bats looking for a place to raise their young for the summer, so she could resign herself to personal matters for the rest of the night. Sighing, she made her way to the bathroom and opened the mirror cabinet overlooking her sink, and took out a small prescription pill bottle. It was once again the start of a new month and she had to take the same pink little pill she had been prescribed since she was a little filly, and to be quite honest with herself she hated it, she hated it so much.
She didn't know the exact reasoning behind why these pills were needed for her to function, but her mother simply told her that the doctors had discovered something was very wrong with the yellow pegasus when she was just a filly. Luckily, they had caught it soon enough that it wasn't yet serious. It seemed the pink pills caused more harm than good, though, at least in the mare's eyes. Ever since first taking them she was always sad and depressed, but luckily she had always managed to have friends and her near constant working schedule with her animals to keep it in check.
The days when Flutteryshy didn't have anypony around or anything to do were the worst, she would shun herself in isolation and just felt miserable to the point of crying. It was these days that the mare hated the most, and she knew the pills were to blame, so why in Celestia's great mane did she have to take them? They didn't seem to do anything but make her miserable and vulnerable, a pushover, but still her mother and doctor both warned her that the consequences could be dire if she refused to take them. Even going as far as to say that somepony could get hurt if she did not comply with their demands, and that was the only thing that kept Fluttershy from outright refusing to take these accursed pills.
Ever since she was a filly the last thing she wanted to do was hurt anypony or anything. They didn't even know what would happen if she refused, yet they believed they were helping just fine by making her take these pills forever, so she simply began to begrudgingly except it throughout the years. Deep down she only wanted to help those who couldn't help themselves, to make them better, no matter what it took. Even if, in how it was done, she wouldn't have final say.
Staring at the pill in her right hoof and the glass of water in the other she was just about to indulge in yet another month of borderline depression when she was interrupted by a frantic pounding on her back door. It sounded urgent enough that Fluttershy decided that her most hated part of the month could wait a few more minutes. Making her way to the door she could hear the sounds of a somewhat familiar voice on the outside. It sounded like it was crying for help, the pounding and the cries getting stronger and faster as Fluttershy heard tremendous horde-like hollering and shouting coming from the EverFree forest. She could make out, from her living room windows, lights starting to emerge from the forest and creep into her front lawn as she made her way to the door. Distracted by the figures she started to see crossing into her lawn from her windows Fluttershy was not totally aware of her surroundings. As she opened her door she was only fast enough to see a tightly clenched fist hurdle straight into her forehead, and having the impact send her head first onto the hard wooden floor. A pool of blood began to form around the mare's head.
…
Running down the dirt path leading to Fluttershy's house from the Everfree the hybrid could make out faint evidence of activity through the cottage's windows. Going past the backyard's various animal housings she could barely contain herself as she began to pound on the door and scream for help.
“PLEASE! PLEASE, COME OUT! HELP ME, PLEASE!”, was all Gilda managed to blurt out of her adrenaline fueled stupor as she thought, “Please, Celestia, please let her be here!”
Turning her head a little she could already see that the monsters had taken care of the manticore and where now on the same route she had taken, as evidenced by the closing light of the horde's torch carriers, who where scouting ahead. Now frantic, Gilda began to beat at the door even harder till her talons where bloodied, further. She practically begged to the door, desperately hoping that it would produce the yellow pegasus that could insure her future existence as more than a red pile of pulp on the floor, or, if she was lucky, a stuffed trophy accompanied by several dozens of stitches to keep it all together, and then most likely scribbled on with profanity for entertainment.
“I think we're gettin' closer!”, shouted one not-to-far-off voice from the forest.
“You where right, she was heading to the cottage, we need to get going!”, responded another.
“Then we have her surrounded, but we need to move NOW, otherwise Fluttershy might get hurt! MOVE OUT!” commanded a third voice that seemed to be much closer than the first two.
At this point Gilda could feel her heart pounding throughout her entire body. Fine motor control had completely left the ball park at this point, and it was everything the griffon could manage to not soil herself right there on the spot. Gilda was unable to keep her eyes on the door for long, already she saw the bipedal creatures emerging from the forest's tree line, it would be moments before the creatures would be upon her once they saw where she was, especially with the loud knocking her talons where mechanically performing. All at once the hybrid's body had gone nearly catatonic with fear and the wounded mammal could not move her head at all even when she felt the door suddenly swing open until -WACK!
Feeling her talon actually make contact with something soft instead of hard wood may have felt good to Gilda's bloodied appendage, but to her brain it sent signals to the rest of her body that made her pupils go to the size of mustard seeds.
“Oh no... no.. n-NO! I didn't just... There is no way my luck is that bad...” said Gilda out loud, but she knew of only one thing in that house that could open that door, she knew there was only one thing in the house who was tall enough to receive a blow from that height and she knew exactly who's house this was, but still she wasn't going to believe it. Not until she saw-
Gilda's head slowly turned around in an almost mechanically grinding fashion with a matching face of horror and dread. There on the floor lay an unconscious Fluttershy with blood pooling from her head.
“Oh my God! She's attacking Fluttershy, and is about to finish her off! QUICK! DOUBLE TIME! DOUBLE TIME! WE NEED OUR SHARP SHOOTERS UP FRONT NOW!” shouted the same commanding voice, who was obviously the horde's leader.
“BWKAWK!” yelled Gilda as she jumped in the air, in a manner that was extraordinarily close to that of a chicken. Had it been that time of the month there would probably be eight to twelve freshly laid eggs on the ground, all ready for scrambling and cooking of all sorts. One of the roosters from the nearby chicken coop that had woken up gave her a flirtatious wink, but Gilda didn't have any time for that nonsense. She rushed over to Fluttershy desperately trying to get her back into consciousness.
“Get up! Please get up! You need to help me! They're going to kill me! GET UP!” Gilda cried as she furiously shook the unresponsive equine.
…
Sounds of a raspy voice pleading for her to get up filled Fluttershy's ears on and off as her vision faded in and out. She could barely make out the figure of a white eagle's head in the center of her vision. A sticky feeling was felt behind her and a liquid could be felt slowly pouring from the pounding area of her forehead. Although the wound was hidden by her hair she could tell that her skull was split open.
Normally something like this would cause the filly to scream in terror and either pass out or rush straight to Ponyville Medical, but she felt different. As if the blood loss was causing her to be able think clearer. For the first time in so long Fluttershy began to get control of her own life, to be able to make her own decisions and finally be able to help others how she saw fit. Something snapped in the mare. In that instance the pushover-weakling who only showed her true self when her friends where in mortal danger was gone. She hadn't felt this alive since Iron Will's confidence training, heck, she felt better! Like the yellow equine had woken up from a sad dream and found herself in total dominance of the real world, a world where she had final say.
By now the mare's vision and hearing had completely restored itself. After closing her eyes to adjust to the lighting the torches had created in front of her they shot open wide before coming to a calm demeanor. Her breathing became almost rhythmic and calm, despite the griffon who was still frantically shaking her to get up. The hybrid was met with an annoyed look and a hoof that forcibly shoved the quivering griffon back on to the outside ground, but this was soon rebutted by the same poor creature getting on its knees and began to beg for its life.
“Please, please, I am so sorry for ANYTHING I did to you! I.. I.. I'll do whatever you want! I swear I'll never be mean or thoughtless again! Just don't let them kill me! You..you've proven your point it's horrible to hate someone just because of the things they say or do, as long as nobody gets hurt from those actions! PLEASE CALL YOUR MONSTERS OFF! I AM BEGGING YOU!” Gilda was bawling her eyes out at this point. Practically reduced to the mental capacity of a five year old. She didn't dare turn around to see the mob, and instead focused solely on the yellow mare in front of her. Several beams of red light emerged from the crowd of raging beings that had formed around the two, and where focused directly on the back of Gilda's head.
Fluttershy's face, for the most part, was completely blank, save for the slightly annoyed look she had on her eyes. Looking at the sobbing bird in front of her was almost enough to make her laugh, or feel bad, considering the tough way she flouted herself when nopony was strong enough to fight back. Viewing the griffon as if it had interrupted her with a trivial matter it needed her to solve. A quick snort front the mare's nose was the only rebuttal she felt she needed to give the hybrid, who still looked at her with pleading eyes.
Inspecting the creatures who had chased this pathetic would-be bully to her home she started with the odd way they stood up on their back legs, their bloodshot eyes, strange forelegs and even stranger weapons. They where truly a terrorizing sight to behold, but they seemed to be trying to kill Gilda for her or at least planned to horribly torture her in some of the most brutal manners possible. No, she would not allow that. She didn't hate the griffon, just what she had done, and she knew that the misunderstood creature needed her help. First though, the pink haired pegasus decided to have a little fun.
“You punched me in the FACE!” Fluttershy nearly shouted at the quivering griffon, adding extra emphasis and volume to the ending just to get the horde even angrier.
Shouting at the griffon like that was met wildly with success in regard's to Fluttershy's plans. The mechanical sounds of triggers being set, knives being sharpened against one another and the revving of steel teeth that sounded as painful as they where loud. All of this was topped off with even more shouts and screams from the dark faces amongst the crowd.
“I DIDN'T MEAN IT! I DIDN'T MEAN IT! PLEASE FORGIVE ME! I'LL DO WHATEVER YOU WANT, I SWEAR! I DON'T WANT TO DIE! I DON'T WANT TO DIE! I DON'T Want to die! I don't want to die. I.. don't...w-want..t-t-to..die...”, The Griffon fell on her elbows with her hands still together in a pleading form. Barely able to keep her breath after the outburst and only able to whisper in a horse voice as she cried, “Please don't let me die...”
The griffon continued to repeat this last sentence over and over again as it faced the pony while now looking at the ground. Unable to bare looking at her judge, almost sure that she would have her ripped to pieces by her monsters. A little giggle came out of the mare's mouth. She had enough fun for one night.
The horde's leader finally spoke up, “We can't risk any stray rounds going through the main target and hitting Fluttershy! Move in now while she's on the ground and just tear her up!”
Gilda whimpered as she saw the mob begin to close in. She was done. Depleted of all energy from the long chase here, and her wings where in no condition to fly. Peering up at her last hope to come out of this alive only one last commission of mercy could be issued before the pegasus spoke up.
“STOP!” The assertive mare shouted to the oncoming crowd. “You are not to harm this griffon any further! Do I make myself clear?”
Silence.
“Get behind me.” Fluttershy then ordered Gilda.
Slightly taken aback from what she had just heard, the hybrid was beside herself as what to say. Stopping her crying for a moment to respond, “w-wha?”
“WHAT? Did you suddenly go deaf? I said get behind me, NOW!”
The sudden outburst of anger from the normally docile pegasus scared Gilda, but the voracious gathering of creatures hell bent on killing her was more than enough to ensure a quick response from the hybrid in a half-scoot half-crawl around to the pegasus' hind legs. From there Gilda grabbed hold of the animal caretaker's hooves. Doing her best to keep hidden like a shy child would behind its mother, but yet still tried to peer around to see what was going on.
“What are you doing Fluttershy? That monster yelled at you and made you cry! Don't you remember? We need to euthanize it before it hurts anypony else!” shouted the leader once more.
In Fluttershy's mind a thousand and one different reasons and insults, each with a huge amount of basic logic backing them, appeared that explained clearly why what was just said was an incredibly stupid reason for doing any of the things that transpired up to this point, but Fluttershy frowned and gave a stern facial expression. She knew how to work this crowd, at least by going off their logic.
“Look, I know you all are a bit sore at what Gilda here did.” She looked down at the griffon who was practically glued to her back hooves, “But you of all people should know then that I am an animal caretaker, and that it would absolutely devastate me if anypony or animal was hurt on my behalf. I just don't know how I would live with myself!”
“But..but she was mean to YOU! I mean who could possibly be mean to someone as kind and considerate as a pony such as yourself! You're best pony!”, argued the horde's leader once more.
“I LOVE YOU FLUTTERSHY!!!”, yelled a random voice from the dark crowd.
“Really? Well you have a funny way of showing it. Considering I am now bleeding from my forehead! Do you know how I got this? Its here because instead of loving and tolerating this creature you chased it all the way to my cottage where it hit me in the carelessness caused by its fear of you! So if you think about it this wound is all your fault! She may have yelled at me, but you all made me bleed, you're even worse than she is!” Fluttershy finished successfully rebutting the horde leader's logic once more.
Large amounts of gasps and screams of denial where heard from the crowd before the leader spoke once more, “No! We didn't mean it! Honestly we where just trying to help!”
“PLEASE FORGIVE US!” shouted the crowd in unison.
“I LOVE YOU FLUTTERSHY!!!”, yelled the same voice from before.
“I know. I know. You where only trying to do what you felt was best, and yes I forgive you.” responded the yellow pony, “But right now I need you all to leave this place and let me take care of myself and my duties as a caregiver for the helpless. Now run along, and thank you all for doing this for me. Though, your actions could have gone through some more moderation, your hearts were in the right place.”
Deciding that she would send them off with a 'pleeease?', and giving the cutest pleading eyes she could muster with with a split open head and blood pouring down her face. Her adorableness was still enough to send many 'dwa's and 'hngg's throughout the crowd. Causing a few to collapse and be carried away due to 'too much diabetus', whatever the hell that was.
“I LOVE YOU FLUTTERSHY!!!”, yelled the unknown voice once before all traces of the horde vanished into the night.
When Fluttershy was certain that they where out of earshot she turned her attention to the whimpering griffon still attached to her back legs.
“T-thank you so much. I swear I've changed... no more mean Gilda. I-I've turned over a new leaf. Thank you for spar-”, the griffon said before she was cut off from the yellow mare.
“Save it, GilDUH!” the increasingly dominate pony commanded. “I know you didn't mean a single thing you said just now, and then. Oh ya, its wicked easy to change your attitude about somepony when a pack of blood thirsty monsters is getting ready to tear you apart if you don't. You have them fooled but I see through your lame little facade. As soon as you are far out of Ponyville and back on your own you'll be back to your mean old jerky self!”
Completely bewildered by the mare's accusations she had no way of showing that she was being truthful than to try and explain further, “N-no I mean it! I have chan-”
“Oh just shut it!”, Fluttershy cut off the hybrid once more and added, “I'll deal with that problem tomorrow!”
Gilda remained silent while the caretaker looked her over. Her wings had several holes in them, some that went all the way through, luckily they had missed any major arteries.
“Right now you're hurt. Just go inside and wait in my kitchen. I'll be in to patch you up in a moment.”, Fluttershy then ordered.
“But what about you? Arn't you hurt? I think we should go to a hospital inst-”, the griffon began, still a little shaky from her night's experiences.
“Did I ask what you thought? OR for your opinion? I am FINE and those wounds you have are nothing I can't handle. Now get inside NOW!” barked the mare, now letting her anger visibly show itself.
“I-I-I'm sor-”
“GO!”
The griffon not wanting to argue further against the pony with 'blood thirsty horde controlling power' and eyes that went right through you detached from the mare's legs and limped inside the cottage.
Fluttershy stood outside in the cold night air. Her breath slowly escaped her snout as she calmed down. She finally knew the reason why they kept her on those pills far all these years. Chuckling to herself she turned to the cottage's doorway, and went inside.
***My Little Pony: Friendship is magic is owned by Hasbro. This is a fan created story using copyrighted characters without permission for non profit uses. I do not claim ownership for any characters except my own.***
***The following is not my opinion or view as to how others should be treated, mainly a thought that was in my head for months that I finally put into writing. Please view it as just that, a story I decided to write. Thank you for your time.***
**Author's Note: Sorry no pictures this time. Maybe later :P**
...
Gilda groggily awoke in the spare bed Fluttershy had provided for her. She wasn't used to sleeping on her stomach like she had last night, but the pain from her freshly bandaged wings had made it an obvious choice in regards to comfort and safety. She found it amazing that she got any sleep at all after her horrible journey to the mare's cottage. If it where not for the relaxants Fluttershy put in her tea after she was done patching her up, she probably would've been up all night!
Shuddering at the remembrance of those pellets going into her wings as she tried to escape that horde, and then crash landing in the Everfree. The sounds of those monsters savagely trying to get to her as they tore down trees and set fire to brush while she dodged through the forest, barely avoiding the projectiles from their weapons. It all came back to her as the hybrid sat up in bed. Observing the way it hurt to try and expand her wings just a little. The thought of never flying again crossed her mind, causing a nervous gulp as a massive pit in her stomach began to form. She sat up in bed for what seemed like forever as these thoughts went through her mind until she was interrupted by a stern voice.
“Good to see you're finally awake. Now get up and go downstairs. Breakfast is being made, and once you're done with that we'll go over what you'll be doing today.”, Fluttershy ordered. She seemed to have been observing Gilda from a top the stairs. For however long, was a mystery to Gilda, but the cold stare she received from the mare made it seem like she saw exactly what was going through her mind. The mare then made a warm smile as her eyes remained fixed with a dead panned expression that seemed to say 'that's right I know'. Fluttershy turned, heading downstairs, leaving the mentally stunned griffon to contemplate what she just saw.
“What does she mean 'what you'll be doing today'? What could I possibly do in the state I'm in? That stare, those eyes just... drilled through me, and I didn't even hear her come up the stairs. It was like she was there the whole time.”, Gilda pondered. The thought of that mare watching her all night while she slept frightened the hybrid. She came to the quick conclusion that she simply hadn't heard the pony making her way up the stairs while deep in her thoughts. That had to be it, just a coincidence. Still, the pegasus's unexpected smile reinforced the feeling of something being very off to the griffon, something that put fear in her heart.
“Taking your sweet time, GilDUH? Hurry UP!”, shouted a recognizable, yet clearly irritated, voice from the kitchen.
The shock of being ripped from her thoughts like that did not give enough time to even organize a response or acknowledgment as she shot out of bed. Trying at first to fly downstairs but winced in pain as her wings remained stiff inside their bandages. She remembered that they were currently not an option, and instead opted to pace quickly to the kitchen on all fours.
As she entered the kitchen, Gilda could smell bread being toasted, and soon became witness to many vegetables and fruits being cut up then placed in bowls. Fluttershy was busy in the middle of it all, filling up bowl after bowl of food clearly marked for a different kind of animal found in, or around, her cottage. In the center of the kitchen was a medium sized table with a chair at each end.
“Wow, you're finally down here, well look at that. I take it you slept well?” the yellow pony asked as she glanced over her shoulder, still chopping away.
“Um, yes, yes I did. Th-thank you very much for the tea and the stuff you put in it. That helped a lot, because otherwise I don't know how I would've gotten to sleep after... well-” the griffon tried to continue but was cut off by the mare, who had enough of hearing about what they had both witnessed.
“Yes, yes, after your little crybaby incident, I know. Now take a seat.” Fluttershy turned away from Gilda and grabbed a medium sized bowl then filled it with fruit, also grabbing a plate with buttered toast she placed both parts of the meal on the side of the table that had a chair facing her, so she could better talk to Gilda as she continued with her preparations.
Noticing that the chair wasn't in the process of being filled she looked at the griffon who still stood at the entrance of the kitchen with her mouth agape, unbelieving that her entire ordeal was chalked down to nothing more than 'a crybaby incident'. The poor bird looked like she was close to crying from the insult, but Fluttershy merely raised an eyebrow as if she was being challenged.
The mare walked over to the designated chair, pulled it from the table, and then in an almost snarling voice she venomously ordered, “Take a SEAT!”
Gilda responded by ducking her head down and rushing to the seat. Holding back tears as she sat down, and was then brought to face the table when Fluttershy rotated her chair back in to the proper position. Sniffling as she looked down at the meal that was provided for her. It consisted of cantaloup, watermelon, apple slices, grapes and many other delicious fruits, with the toast providing a much needed offset to the juiciness of the fruit. A glass of milk slide into view, meeting a now complete breakfast, she soon looked up to see Fluttershy staring at her. While the two shared gazes at each other the feeling that she was being waited on overcame the hybrid who, thinking she understood the intended message, began to eat her meal.
Fluttershy walked back to the counter and started chopping up a small pile of carrots while she spoke, “I don't know what you're so sad about, you're not the one who got her skull split open! Please, you're going to be just fine. I took care of the big-bag-mean-old-monsters, bandaged you up and was even nice enough to make you a delicious breakfast... that I still have yet to hear a 'thank you' for!”
It took but a moment for the bulb above Gilda's head be lit, and quickly understood why Fluttershy was staring at her just moments ago. “Oh, um, thank you very much!”, the griffon responded. Then asked, “Wait, you said that I'll be okay? Does that mean I'll still be able to fly?”
Not missing a beat with her chopping, the mare continued to look down at her work and replied, “The herbs I mixed in your wounds should heal and close all the holes within a week or so. As to whether or not you will be able to fly depends on how many feathers you have. Because, after all, without enough of those you'll just fall like a rock.” Bringing down the knife on the head of one carrot for added emphasis.
“Well, that shouldn't be much of a problem, I didn't lose many feathers. Its just the holes that kinda slowed me down.” Gilda responded cheerfully, trying her best to show the mare that she was really grateful for all she had done, and also to maybe get her to lighten up.
“Mmm,” was all the griffon could get from the pony before she got back to her chopping.
Continuing with her breakfast the hybrid tried not to focus on the pony who was obviously still irate from last night. “I know she was mad after I punched her, but she even said it was an accident. So why is she still angry at me?” Gilda's train of thought was, once again, interrupted. This time by a loud thumping coming from her left side. She looked down to see a white rabbit with its arms crossed and an annoyed look on the rest of its features, especially the drumming it's right foot was performing.
“Hey, little guy! You, um, want a piece of apple?” Gilda asked as she waved a slice from her bowl in front of the rabbit. The animal responded, in turn, by giving her an unamused look, then slapping the piece of fruit from her talon. Afterward it began pointing to her chair. “Huh? No, y-you can't eat this whole chair. Can you?”
Only able to respond with a dumbfounded expression followed up by face palm, the rabbit then began to point at the chair once more then his rump, and continued this a short number of times before stomping his feet in place like an angry child.
“Well, yeah, that's what I mean, its going to hurt coming out, so that's why I have doubts about you being able to eat it.” retorted the griffon, still oblivious as to what the creature was implying.
Raising its right paw up and opening its mouth in a way that looked entirely like at any moment the critter would learn Equestrian and shout out his demands he was soon cut off by Fluttershy.
“No, Gilda, he doesn't want to EAT the chair, he wants to SIT on the chair. That's Angel, my number one assistant, he helps me out with taking care of the rest of the animals here, and in the mornings that's normally his chair.” Fluttershy walked over to the bunny and knelt down so she was at face level with it. “I'm sorry, honey, for now I need our guest to use this chair, but don't worry I've got something just as good.”
Flutttershy then pulled up a stool for the bunny, and placed a small bowl of chopped up carrots by Angel's new 'seat'. “Now why don't you hop on up, so you can eat your breakfast, and have lots of energy for today!”
Angel responded with the same kid like tantrum he threw for Gilda, who could only wince at how agitated this must be making Fluttershy. She was trying her best to make the mare more open to accepting that she had changed, and this could in no way help her cause. Thinking that maybe what she meant by 'what you'll be doing today' would consist of her going around the town and apologizing to those she had berated. It only made sense, after all the mare did spare her life, and was treating her somewhat nice. “It would also be nice to see Rainbow Dash...” thought Gilda as a sigh escaped her beak.
As she continued to observe the two, Gilda was more than surprised at what she witnessed next.
“Oh, please will you come up to eat? You know I love having my number one bunny eating at the same table as me like the big boy he is, and I REALLY need your help today with my new assistant!” Fluttershy practically begged the rabbit, coddling her cheeks against his in a motherly fashion. Diverting his eyes away from her efforts, Angel remained firm in his resolve.
“Tell you what, if you do this for me then tonight I'll make carrot cake for desert!” Fluttershy hummed, she could tell that the rabbit was close to breaking. “Extra frosting.”
These two words couldn't roll off Fluttershy's tongue any sooner than the rabbit could hear them before he jumped up on the stool and ravenously devoured his meal. Then burst out the back door to get the rest of the animals ready for breakfast, as well. Fluttershy giggled at the display.
Gilda sat awestruck at what she had just witnessed. The change in the mare was so sudden that it seemed like there was a completely different Fluttershy in the room than the one she was with both moments earlier and last night. As quickly as the happy transformation came, it left when Fluttershy turned to face Gilda. Returning to her previous foreboding glare as she said in a hard tone, “Hurry up with your breakfast, I'm almost done filling up the animal's bowls, and I will not let them go hungry waiting on you!”
Gilda gulped, turning back to her plates and quickly finished up her fruit. The toast was the next to go in rapid succession, and the milk soon after. Finishing up with a burp, the griffon chuckled embarrassingly, but soon apologized when she saw that she had earned a sharp glare from the pony that seemed filled with distaste, “Excuse me, eh-he.”
The mare simply rolled her eyes and then shook her head. Filling up the last of her bowls she questioned the griffon, “Are you done with your breakfast?”
“Um, yes.”
“Then bring your plates and glass over to the sink and wash them off.”
“Okay.” After washing down the plates with soap and water Gilda then asked, “What should I do with these?”
“Just leave them there, right now I need to tell you what work you'll be doing first today.” Fluttershy began by grabbing a few bowls and placing them on a tray.
“Wait, work? But I can't work in the condition I'm in. I mean, I can't even fly.” the griffon tried to reason with the pony. Manual labor was not at all what she had in mind for what she would be made to do.
“Really, now? You are too sick and wounded to feed a few animals and clean out a few pens, but when it comes time to rush down my stairs and eat my food you can pull that off no problem?” Fluttershy countered, clearly aware of the lazy bird's sad attempt to get out of working.
“Well... um.. I...” the hybrid fumbled, she was fine with ponies, but she really didn't want to deal with little critters. She never was good with any of her pets, and her parents ended up taking care of, or giving away, most of the ones she was given when she was an eaglet.
“Yeah, that's what I thought.” Fluttershy angrily scowled, “Now if you're done trying to make up poor excuses, here is what you will be doing first. Right now all the animals are currently awake, or being awoken by Angel. They are all hungry, and their pens need to be cleaned today, so what you are doing first is placing the correct food for the current animals outside of their home, and while they are out eating you will clean out their pens. When you're done with that, we will do the same thing with next pen until we are done. Simply enough?”
“Yeah, ...but I thought you wanted to know that I have changed?” Gilda replied still questioning how the pony making her do physical labor could prove this.
“Of course, and if you have been paying any attention at all you will have noticed that I am an animal caretaker and help animals, what did you possibly think I would make you do?” the mare questioned, actually eager to hear what the half-and-half had to say.
“That you would make me go around Ponyville, apologizing to all the people I yelled at. Then go on to be a productive member of society after I admit my past flaws, and promise to do my best to be rid of them?” the griffon replied, looking as if she was completely certain that this is what needed to happen.
For the first time since she had seen seen Fluttershy in Ponyville's market the pegasus's eyes actually managed to widen almost all the way to their limit. At first it seemed like the mare had seen a ghost and was completely stiff, but a slight chuckle began to emit from her mouth as the rest of her features gave way. This kept going until the pony was laughing uncontrollably, to the point where she was snorting.
Gilda, on the other hand, was feeling very uncomfortable at the reaction she was getting to what she thought was a really well thought out plan.
“Oh, boy. Oh my goodness.” The pink maned pony cried, wiping tears from her eyes. “That was too funny, I almost feel like believing you now...”
The mare tried to continue, but went into another fit of laughter as she wrapped a drawstring pouch around her neck, “You remember what I told you last night. I don't believe a single word that was said to me about you 'changing', so what makes you think that if I bring you around Ponyville and having you lie everypony else that I'll change my mind?”
“B-But I have changed! I swear I have! I learned how horrible it is to bully somepony, and to be bullied yourself. Those monsters showed me that. Please, what can I do to show you I mean the truth!”
The mare cocked her eyes and analyzed the griffon before speaking once more, “Well if also remember correctly, last night you also swore that you would do anything I want, and right now that pathetic excuse for what you learned isn't nearly enough to convince me that gallivanting around Ponyville yelling out 'HERP-DERP!!! GILDAR IZ NEICE!!!' is what I WANT! Anypony can be coerced into doing something they don't want with death threats, that doesn't meant that they've changed one bit. The only helpful thing those monsters did for me was bring you here. Now I can show you where you've gone wrong and how you will go right. I will show you what compassion, kindness and charity are, and you, in turn, will act with these elements just as I do. YOU WILL LEARN FROM THE NUMBERS! I WILL TEACH YOU!”
At this point the griffon was on the ground trembling from the vehement pony's rage. Who was practically standing over her, boring through her mind and thoughts with those penetrating blue eyes. Crying, the hybrid could only respond with these two choked up words, “Yes, Ma'am...”
Fluttershy got off of Gilda, and grabbed the tray once more, shoving it in her hands as the scared bird got up, “Good, now lets go outside and get started.”
…
True to the pony's word, angel had woken up most if not all of the animal's in Fluttershy's care. The chickens would be the first to go. The squawks of a few roosters and many hens clearly showed the activity inside the small red home as they waited for their meal.
“Now this should be somewhat easy, even for you.” Fluttershy said as they walked up to the animal enclosures. “Right now these chickens are waiting pleasantly in their nests for today's meal. Once they know that their food is here they have a tendency to all crowd around one bowl, and this can cause fighting and bickering. What I want you to do is when I let the chickens know that its time to eat is to make sure that they each get their own individual bowl. Now, be sure to be kind and explain to the chickens in a calm soothing voice when you do this, even if it means picking them up and moving them physically to a bowl. Do you understand?”
“Yes, I understand.” Gilda replied meekly, still visibly scared of the pony from her previous outburst.
Walking over to the chicken coop, Fluttershy peeked her head inside the entrance, just enough to get the fowls' attention. “Okay my little chickens, time for breakfast!” The mare then quickly removed her head from the coup, as a fury of chickens exited for the prepared bowls.
Much as she had predicted, the chickens where already flocked around a single bowl, shoving and prodding their way to the seeds it contained. Gilda was overwhelmed at first, but soon handled the dilemma diligently. This was much to the mare's surprise, although she did not show it.
“Here try this bowl instead.” Gilda said softly directing each individual chicken to its own bowl one by one.
“Hey, this bowl is empty why not use it instead?” the griffon asked another hen. This actually wasn't so bad at all the hybrid thought cheerfully. It was a bit dull, but it wasn't hard work in the least. If this was the kind of stuff the mare had in mind in order to teach her these elements, then she would prove her knew outlook to the pony in no time!
A few of the roosters from the still somewhat large flock around the first bowl caught site of the griffon and began walking over to her while she was turned, busy helping a hen to an unoccupied bowl. They began doing the traditional chicken courtship ritual by circling around her, clucking and squawking as they did. Then after two rotations the two began jumping into her rump only to be blocked by her tail.
“Hey, quit it!” Gilda asked, starting to get annoyed by the two roosters as they continued to incessantly perform their jumping to no avail. Pushing them forcefully away from her with her free talon she retorted, “I mean it you two, cut it out, right now!”
The two roosters flew away from the griffon with the force of her shove. Causing one to land in the group of hens still at the first bowl, scaring most of them away. The other rooster was trying to land gracefully after touch down, but ended up tripping over a rock, while getting its balance, and fell to the ground, instead.
“GILDA!” the pony roared. “That is not how you treat confused animals!”
“b-but they where bumping into m-”
“TWO FEATHERS!” the pink haired pony sternly shouted as she made her way over to the griffon, opening up the pouch around her neck.
“W-what?”
“You heard me! Pluck TWO feathers from your wings, and put them inside of this pouch!”
“What! Why do I have to do that?”
“Because this is the best way for you to learn from your actions. You said you wanted to keep flying after your bandages are taken off? Then you better forget about being as mean and cruel as you are now, and start learning how to show some true kindness, compassion, and charity like I told you too! AND HURTING ANIMALS IS NOT THE WAY THAT'S GONNA HAPPEN! So like I said, two feathers in the pouch, do it NOW!”
“B-but I've had these feathers ever since I molted my birth ones off from when I was an eaglet, if I lose these then the feathers that grow back won't be nearly as strong! Please don't make me take them out! I'm sorry!”
“Whats that Gilda? I could've sworn that while you giving excuses I said four feathers instead of two... Hmmm, maybe I should get the monsters back here and see what they think...”
“NO! NO! I'LL TAKE THEM OUT! I'LL TAKE THEM OUT! I'M SORRY!”
Fluttershy smiled while calmly directing the opening of the pouch towards the griffon. Shaking it teasingly as she waited for the griffon to hand over the feathers.
Whimpering the griffon analyzed both of her wings. After careful observation, she decided on two small ones from the back of her left wing. She desperately hoped that the mare wouldn't stop her when she selected them, and make her pick two of the big ones. Because at least now she wouldn't see them missing, and they wouldn't affect her flight that much if at all. Putting her talons on the two she decided on, the griffon looked back up at the mare who nodded her head accordingly. Taking this as a message to continue she closed her eyes and began pulling on them when she was stopped.
“No,” the mare ordered, motioning with her right hoof to stay in the position she was in, “look at them as you do it. I want you to remember seeing those feathers come out, so you will know that every time you mess up or are mean to anypony this is what is going to happen.”
“Yes, ma'am.” the griffon replied miserably. Turning back to her talon that had pinched the two feathers in place In one quick pull both feathers came out. Tears where running down her face as she brought the feathers to the pouch and deposited them in its opening.
“Now, are you going to be making up any more excuses?”
“No, ma'am.”
“Are you going to be mean to anypony else?”
“No, ma'am.”
“Then round up the rest of the hens, and apologize to the roosters.” the pony ordered, going back to the chicken coop so she could keep an eye on everything that was going on.
Rounding up the hens wasn't hard at all. The next part was going to be the most challenging for the griffon, knowing that she would actually going to try and repair the confidence of two species-confused chickens. Finding them both cowering behind the chicken coop, they where doing their best to hide from what was apparently the new alpha female of the coup.
Getting down to face level with the birds, Gilda did her best to chock down her tears and clear her voice before spouting off her apology. “Look you too, I'm really sorry for how I previously acted. It was a mean and selfish way for me to respond to two handsome roosters such as yourself, who where just trying to say that you think I'm pretty, but you need to know that it could never work. I mean I'm a griffon and you two are chickens! Yes, I may be half eagle, but I'm also half lion, too. Besides there are plenty of hens here who you need to look out for, and I'm sure would just die to have one of you as a suitor.”
After hearing this the two roosters stopped their cowering and where know standing proud and tall. Puffing their chests out as far as their little rib cages would let them as they walked back to the hens and both found an empty bowl to eat from. Gilda did her best to force a smile as she waved them off.
While Gilda was asking for forgiveness from the two roosters, a lone hen, much bigger than the others, had broken off from the group at the bowls and snuck around to the back of the coop as well. Stealthily coming to the griffon's backside, it arched its body in a lunging motion as a tiger would on an unsuspecting prey. Eyes filled with rage it it hollered, “YOU DARE THREATEN MY POWER OVER THESE MAGGOTS! I WILL DEVOUR YOU FROM THE OUTSIDE-IN TO THE INSIDE-OUT!”
Gilda's smile soon formed into a more relaxed expression. She didn't have much time to go over what she was just forced to do to her wings and her pride as she felt a slight pecking on her back legs. Gazing down behind her at the source of the sensation, she found a chubby hen quietly clucking as she lightly pecked at the griffon's back paws. Gilda turned and picked up the hen, inspecting it as she brought it back over to the bowls. The griffon could tell that there was obviously not much going on in the chicken's mind from the blank it expression it had over its face. “Here ya go, enjoy some corn! It taste's a lot better than my leg, silly!”
“UNHAND ME COWARD, SO THAT WE MAY DO BATTLE AS MY PEOPLE HAVE FOR EONS! LONG BEFORE WE WERE BETRAYED BY CELESTIA, AND CURSED TO LIVE IN THIS PATHETIC FORM! IF I WHERE IN MY ORGINAL STATE YOU WOULD KNOW PAIN! YOU WOULD KNOW FEAR! FOR I WOULD UTTERLY ANHIL-OH MY GOD, CORN!!!”
The hen waited stoically as the griffon let her go next to the last free bowl, then nonchalantly walked over to the bowl, and began to feed quietly, save for a cluck here and there. Gilda then left the chickens to their meal, and walked to Fluttershy who had a trash barrel and rake prepared for the griffon.
“Good job handling that hen. Maybe you are learning.” the mare sternly responded to the griffon's act of kindness. “Now all that's left for this coup is the cleaning. All that you really need to worry about is the waste and hay the chickens litter on the floor every so often. Just get in the coop and work from the back to the entrance, and BE CAREFUL of the hens' eggs.”
“Front to back, you got it!” the griffon replied cheerfully while taking the two items from the pegasus. Trying once more to lighten up the mare's mood, this only caused her blue eyes to narrow as if she was treating the response as a facetious provocation. The griffon, still trying, laughed a bit in the hope her new boss would join in, a hoof sharply pointing to the entrance of the coup was the only bodily movement she received while the pony shot daggers from her eyes. Gilda sheepishly nodded and hurried inside. She had barely made it half way I in the coup. when she stepped on a splinter sticking out from one of the floor planks.
“AHH!” The griffon shrieked, falling face first on the floor inside of the coup and then curled up to . “Dammit! My foot!”
“What? Are you serious right now?” the mare shouted from outside the coup. Even though, at this point the hybrid was far inside the coup the pony's voice could not be as easily muffled as the other sounds nature was producing that morning. “You haven't gone five minutes since your first plucking, and already you're messing up?”
Now frightened by the idea that she may lose yet another feather for a situation out of her control Gilda tried her best to explain herself. “N-no! I stepped on something sharp. I think it was a nail or a tack.”
Crawling backwards outside the small entrance she poked her lion's half out in the open to show off the damaged hind leg at the mare.
A loud, irritated, sigh could be heard from the world outside the chicken coup, followed by a command that carried the same tone, “Just stay right where you are and don't move, I'll be right back.”
Hearing the clopping from the pony leave the griffon. Gilda soon was left to her thoughts, again, Taking note of how much of an awkward position she was in. One that might make a passerby stop and double take their view. Seeing an immobile lion's body in the entrance of a home meant for chickens, while the chickens were helping themselves to food not five feet away. As if it had somehow gotten itself stuck inside either by a crazy set of events or shear stupidity, or perhaps a little of both, and had given up trying to escape. Luckily, this was quite an improbable scenario for the griffon as the animal pens faced the Everfree.
Coming back to reality from the sound of returning hooves, the griffon felt the hurt paw being lifted up and then held in places by two hooves. Wondering how the caretaker would manage to treat her wound now, Gilda got a response by an even greater pain rocketing through her foot and lower leg as she felt what seemed like cold steel pincers dig into the gash and then suddenly jerk out. Doing her best so far at concealing the yelp that was building up during this process it was soon found to be impossible as a lukewarm liquid splashed on her paw, burning and sizzling as it settled deep in the wound. Grinding her teeth and emitting a few whimpers the griffon felt her foot being expertly bandaged, and then, to her surprise, felt a hoof grab each of her hind legs and pull her back into the outside world.
Temporarily blinded by the sudden sunlight the bird regained her vision just in time to see an angry Fluttershy pin her against chicken coup with a force uncalled for from a pony with such a small frame, nearly inches away from Gilda's face. Having already established herself as hard going on the griffon, Fluttershy's expression gave the inkling that this new face meant Gilda was dealing with a different beast all together.
“What where you THINKING you dumb half-and-half?” Fluttershy was pressing her forelegs hard on the griffon chest at this point, completely oblivious to the fact she was depriving the mammal of oxygen. “Swearing AND being negligent for the safety of those around you? Just how many darn times do we need to go over this?”
“But... *wheeze* there aren’t any animals in the *wheeze* pen...” the griffon explained, her breaths getting labored as the pony's pressure continued to increase, more so after her reply.
“Gilda, there are EGGS in that coup! Some that have little chicks in them, and in your carelessness you put at risk their lives by flailing around over a little scratch! I mean the darn splinter had barely pierced your skin.”
“But I didn't try to hurt them, it was an accident plea-” Gilda blurted out, hoping to say anything that would relent the surprising pressure the pony was exhibiting on her frame.
“You also didn't try to take in account your surroundings before acting out! Just like before in the middle of town, or did you think I forgot all about that. Hmm little 'Miss. I've Changed'? You need to watch what you're doing, otherwise people could get hurt!”
“Please... *gasp* you're crushing me!”
Fluttershy's eyes narrowed, and she said the following before releasing her grasp. “Hurts doesn't it?”
The griffon dropped the ground doing her best to regain her breath.
“I should make you pluck another two out for that... but considering you're covered in bird waste I'll just let it slide, seeing as the situation delivered its own justice.” The pink haired mare mocked, slightly chuckling as the griffon's eyes began to widen.
“W-waaa... what do you mean was-” The bird slide a talon over her right jaw and looked in horror at the white dirty substance she found thickly laid over her palm. Gilda began to heave as she became aware of the substance covering the rest of at least half her body.
“Are you going to puke? This means yes. This means no.” The pony suddenly asked in a tone of urgency, as she bobbed and shook her head much in the manner a mother would when she needed a stingy child to cooperate. Receiving a slight nod in the affirmative as the eagle part of Gilda's body began getting green. Fluttershy barely had enough time to bring the trash barrel in front of the sickened creature before it got to reunite with it's breakfast.
When it seemed as though there was none left Gilda was thrown a rag from Fluttershy, who had apparently grabbed from the nearby clothing line. After wiping herself off the griffon was pointed back into the coop, and finished up the rest of the animal pen. Careful of the floor and even more so for the eggs. The rest of the pens and shelters went by without incident. Gilda was devoting all her energy to showing the pegasus that she was indeed 'learning', and had no further screw ups until she reached the last animal pen, which contained the the ducks.
While Fluttershy was busy inspecting the last shelter, insuring Gilda had done a good job. The griffon had decided she would go on ahead an get started on what she hoped was the last of her chores. Setting down the food bowls for the ducks was as easy as it was for the rest of the animals, but as she approached the pens to let the smaller birds know it was time for breakfast she noticed something was visibly off with the mother and father ducks. Shielding and then moving their babies away from the perceived threat, Gilda was baffled as to why out of all the animals she dealt with this morning these where terrified of her.
Investigating the commotion, Fluttershy gasped at the scene unfolding in front of her, and quickly intervened. Coming to face the hybrid she put a hoof out to stop her from going any further, then lightly shoving her away. Effectively preventing her from chasing the scared flock any farther.
“Don't worry about these ones Gilda. Just go inside and wash up. I'll handle the rest.” The pony commanded in a stern but surprisingly calm and relaxed done. Turning away from the griffon she could be heard mumbling something about forgetting to round these up before hand.
“Why are they acting like that, is something wrong with them.” Gilda replied, genuinely concerned about the ducks, and feeling bad for scaring them.
“No, nothing is wrong. Now get back in the house like I asked you too.” Fluttershy responded, her voice getting louder and more irritated with each word.
“Well... did I do something wrong? I mean, I promise not to do it again, and I'm sorry. I just don't know what it is I could have done...” the hybrid spouted off, but her apology fell short when she saw the animal caretaker turn around. As sure as Gilda was that she had witnessed the full extent of the pony's rage, the mare did not cease to amaze her as she became witnessed to a demeanor that would make the whole horde flee with terror.
Grinding her teeth and having a few veins pop out from her forehead, so much so that the stitches under her hair ripped open a bit, causing blood to poor down her face once more. The pony could barely relay an audible sentence through her closed jaw. “You have no idea just how hard I am trying not to tackle you right now,” the mare continued after taking many deep breaths, “You have a hard time doing what you're told, so take out five feathers for that, and another five for not trusting ME to know what I am doing!”
Stumbling backwards the griffon could barely reply to what she was hearing. “B-but what did I do wrong? I wasn't even hurting anyone! I'll j-just go in the house. Please! I don't want to take that many out.”
“Hmm, I do agree Gilda, twenty feathers is a lot, even for a griffon, no wonder you're taking so long...”
“WHAT! You said ten...” Gilda tried to go on, but her mind stopped her body from acting further, instead she just dropped down to her knees and closed her eyes before crying. She knew it would be pointless to even try arguing. She could only try and minimize the damage at this point. “I'm sorry for disobeying you, I'll take out the ten like you asked, and go back inside. Please don't make me take out twenty. I'm sorry.”
Analyzing what she just heard, the yellow pegasus observed the griffon's physical expressions as well. Coming to the agreement that Gilda was actually being genuine in her apology Fluttershy decided to give the half-and-half a break, after all this was good progress! “Fine, but five off each wing. And one by one, no more of that all together nonsense. It minimizes the pain, and I want you to remember each and every pluck, otherwise you won't learn as fast.”
Crying even more so then the last time, Gilda complied without protest. One by one, wing by wing, out the feathers came. Gripping some of the feathers she had used ever since her time in the Junior Speedsters with Dash, the griffon lifted them over the hole of the pouch. Opening her talon, she watched the clump of brown feathers fall like a pebble thrown in the center of a deep lake, taking note of how the seemed to sink into a black oblivion, lost forever.
“Now go inside, and wash up.” the pony commanded once more.
“Yes, ma'am.”
It wasn't long before the griffon had finished properly cleaning her self off from the grime of the morning's chores that Fluttershy arrived. Finding that Gilda was stoically waiting for whatever it was the mare would have her do next the mare took out a quill and parchment and scribbled a somewhat long list of chores inside the house that she would do for the rest of the day.
“These are the rest of the chores you will be doing today. Do them in order or not, it doesn't matter. Just get them done. Since I didn't really plane on having enough food for two for this week's supply I need to go out and get more. Angel will be in charge, if you do ANYTHING, and I mean ANYTHING wrong while I am gone Angel will see it and I WILL know about it. Understood?”
“Yes, ma'am.” The Griffon replied, deciding it would be best to keep responses short and to the point. Taking the list and going over it's objectives she found they where well within her capability, just that they would take her most of the day till dinner.
“Help yourself to whatever is in the fridge. I know you are probably hungry again, especially after the chicken coup incident.” The pony replied in a hurried tone as she was busy putting on her supply sacks across her back. On cue, Angel scampered to her side as she opened the front door. “Angel, the house is in your fluffi' widdle' paws now. Just make sure she does what she's supposed to, and that cake is as good as yours.”
Saluting Fluttershy much like one would their commanding officer, and Angel stood proud and tall as a bunny could while she exited. Causing her to giggle a little from the display. Gilda took this rare change of attitude as a chance to ask what had secretly been going through her head all morning.
“Hey, um, Fluttershy?” the bird asked meekly. Earning a slight turn of the head from the mare that gave her a good view of the unamused expression across her facial features. “Do you think, maybe if its alright, that I could see Rainbow Dash later on today? I'd really like to talk to her, and I think it would help me get better.”
Sighing heavily in manner that gave the griffon a clear impression that she would rather be on her way then discuss this right now, the pegasus made her way back into the house stopping just a few feet away from the ever shrinking griffon. Who seemed to sense that she was going to be berated once more. “First off, you do not get to call me that. Only my friends and people who aren't mean bullies like you get to call me Fluttershy. For now on you may only call me Final Say, because I have FINAL.SAY. over what you will and will not do! I don't even want you calling me 'Ma'am' anymore. Am I clear?”
“Yes, Ma-err I mean, Yes, Final Say.” Gilda replied, breathing a sigh of relief that she wasn't going to be made to take out more feathers. Not even daring to face the pony, she drew her eye's attention to the ground, and waited to see what the response to her request would entail.
“Second, you've already shown me that your not ready for visitors yet. Maybe we'll see how well you do for the rest of the day, till I get back, and we'll talk more about it during dinner.” Leaving a saddened griffon in her wake, Fluttershy slammed the door shut with her tail. Looking down at the list the bandaged creature sighed, and decided to get to work. The thought that she might be able to meet Dash gave her a constant reminder to do well.
While making her way to Ponyville, Fluttershy stopped before getting into view of anypony and made herself more presentable for her trip into town a quick smoothing of her hair with her wings then a wiping off of the dried blood on her face and she was set, being especially careful to cover her scar. A warm smile came over her face as she looked up at the sky, mostly sunny with a few cumulus here and there, she could already tell that today was going to be a great day!
Making her way down the beaten trail to Ponyville, Fluttershy could see that the town was filled with activity as usual. Taking in the many rows of apple trees that soon filled each side of the road in front of her, each red morsel practically begging her to take a big ol' bite out of them as they glistened in the sun. However, coming up to an opening in the trees, the yellow mare could spotted one exceptionally 'big' apple that Fluttershy wouldn't mind taking a bite out of any day.
Big Macintosh was far too busy in his chores to notice the the pink haired pony that was making a stealthy approach behind him. Delivering a powerful buck to the trunk of his newest target he was quite literally rewarded with the fruits of his labor being delivered directly into the strategically placed wheel barrel beneath the kicked tree's branches. Wiping the sweat off his brow, the strong stallion was fatigued, though he did not show it, skipping breakfast to finish his day's work in the crops early could tire even somepony as muscularly toned and fit as himself, and he had actually wished he had listened to his sister's advice to at least get something to drink before beginning.
Deciding that this load would be enough to warrant a trip back to the farm he turned to hitch himself in, but was stopped when he bumped into an abnormally relaxed Fluttershy with a curious smile on her face. Most ponies would at least yelp or jump back in fright from such an unexpected intrusion, of course Big Mac, being as he was, only brought his head back slightly as his eyes widened before coming back to his normally humble demeanor. The two shared a short awkward silence that only he seemed to be picking up on.
“Uh, Howdy Miss. Shy. What brings yall tah Sweet Apple Acres taday?” the big red pony blurted out, feeling slightly uncomfortable just gazing at the mare's stare.
“Oh, well, I was just on my way in to town when I noticed that you where all alone up on this hill, and looking very parched. So I thought I might come up here and see if I could get you anything to drink, after all working alone like this can be dangerous if one isn't hydrated.” the yellow mare responded in a smooth tone as she brought herself closer to the stallion's muzzle.
“Ah see,” Big Macintosh said while slowly backing his head away from the encroaching mare, finding that she simply leaned in closer as a result, “well, that's a fine gesture and all Miss. Shy, but ah do reckon I'll be fine till lunch, and um, besides, ya don't seem to have any refreshments on yer' person anyhow...”
“Please Big Mac, call me Fluttershy, and...” Fluttershy leaned all the way into Mac's left ear, “...I'm sure I can find you something wet to suck on!”
Big Mac's heart was racing a million times a minute as his mind tried to process what he had just heard. Was this the real Fluttershy? Was this a trap set by his sister to see if he would slack off? Or, was this really even happening? He backed up several steps before knocking over the wheelbarrow and himself with it. Stammering to find something to say, but he had never even been on a date let alone approached like this!
“I.. um.. w-well... I'mtryingtogetoutofworkearlysoIcangetsomefabricfromRarity'sshoptomakeMissSmartyPantsanewdress... AND I LIKE APPLE JUICE!” the muscular stallion blurted out in desperation before he covered his mouth with his forehooves. He had said far too much for his liking as the mare could tell from his even redder than usual face.
Fluttershy had given up all inclination to not laugh at the stallion's predicament, as bad as she felt for him, his obvious inability to process her sudden advances was as funny as it was cute. Giggling as she walked past him and back down the cliff side, flicking the bottom of his chin with the tip of her tail while swaying her hips in a way that was gave him a good view of all six of her butterflies. Turning her head slightly revealed a devious smirk as cooed, “We'll I've got to go, but maybe later I can help you out with your bucking!”
Big Macintosh simply laid where was, both eyes and mouth agape and utterly speeches. He could only watch as the mare provocatively arched her rear up and took flight, speeding to Ponyville in a manner that might make one think she and Rainbow Dash had traded places for the day. Laying down in stunned silence for however long it took his oldest sister to notice he hadn't brought back a load of apples in an acceptable amount of time.
“Big Macintosh! What's the matter with you? Why are you laying on the ground while ya expose these apples to all sorts of vermin?” Applejack yelled at her older brother as she made her way over to the sad sight he was in.
“Ah.. um... Fl-Fluttershy... apples-bucking... Fluttershy.. bucking-butterflies...” was all she could get out of him as he panted heavily.
Applejack gave a long deadpanned expression before helping her brother up. “Big Mac, I told ya you need breakfast to function, just cause yer strong and all don't mean ya can go against the way of things and expect to come up on top all the time. I mean seriously, Mac, goin' off about Fluttershy of all people buckin' butterflies, and such! This is what ya'll get for not listenin' to yah' sister. Just cause I'm not as good at math as ya don't mean I'm sum' clueless school filly...”
Big Mac did his best to try and make it seem like he was acknowledging his sister's prattling, but the heat in his head, as well as other bodily ligaments, furiously distracted him as he gasped for breath and went into a nervous sweat. Trying to make sense of it all as thoughts of Fluttershy came back to him. He tried his best to figure out what in the hay just happened!
…
Gilda sniffled as she wiped away previously held back tears. Looking at the door with a sullen expression as the thought of escaping crossed her mind, but the empty feeling between the feathers that where still on her wings made it go away instantly. She didn't know what that bunny was capable of, and if Flutter-Final Say caught her... she shuddered in thinking what she would do. Looking down at the list she decided to start her chores, maybe if she finished early something good might happen, she hoped.
Sweeping the floors was the first thing to do. Angel already had the the broom and dustpan out per Fluttershy's instructions. Gilda wondered if Final Say really thought she was dumb enough not to find the supplies on her own, but did her best to show that she was grateful for the rabbit's help. Receiving only a suspicious stare, in return. Though, not nearly half as penetrating or scary or as it's master's, but Gilda knew who it represented so she did her best not to agitate the bunny further.
The rest of the hybrid's chores went by without incident, and by the time she had finished the rest of the chores on the list it was about two or three hours into the afternoon. After being led to where the all the cleaning supplies where to be returned, the lioness and the hare where left to themselves for the rest of the day.
Unsure of what she should do next the griffon could only ask, “So, um, I did all the chores I was told to do, so now what?”
Angel responded by scurrying upstairs for a moment and came down with a second note. It read:
Gilda,
If you somehow manage to finish all your chores, CORRECTLY, before I get back. Feel free to relax downstairs until I get back. Obviously you are not to go outside, no matter what. I'm serious, I don't care even if there is a fire in the house. If there is then you had better find some way to put it out because you will not be leaving, and if you do... well lets just say you will be sleeping on a very comfy feather pillow tonight regardless of what said fire manages to burn. Oh, and remember there is lunch in the fridge. Be sure there is NO MESS when you are done.
Also, STAY OUT OF MY MEDICINE CABINET! If you're hurt and need a bandage NICELY ask Angel and he will get one for you. Under no circumstances are you allowed in there!
-Final Say
Gilda gulped as she looked at her wings, then around the house making sure she had done everything EXACTLY as ordered. To her everything seemed fine, so she sighed, finally letting relief overtake her for the time being.
Taking out what appeared to be a peanut butter and jelly sandwich from the fridge, the griffon set the main course on several paper towels laid out against the sun pouring in through a living room window. Along with an apple, some potato chips and a glass of water, this entree was laid out on the floor here for a number of reasons. One to allow the peanut butter in the sandwich to warm up, two Gilda wanted to look at the sky and outside world and three because if she did make a mess crumbs/etc wouldn't be able to get on anything but the floor, insuring a quick cleanup. The griffon sat down to enjoy her meal, a small smile crept into her face as she took the first bite of her sandwich, unlike most birds, griffons could eat peanut butter thanks to their cat like tongues, so it couldn't get stuck to the top of her beak.
Though, she'd much rather be free and out in the world beyond this cottage, Gilda was glad to at least eat her lunch in peace not under watch by Final Say or her bunny-second-in-command. Gazing through the window at the birds as they flew through the deep ocean of blue in the sky, a sense of loss and yearning began to show itself in her expression. A sudden black figure swooped across her vision, distracted and alarmed the griffon began to look in all directions for the perpetrator.
“W-who's there there?” the hybrid asked meekly, unsure if Angel was playing a trick on her or there really was an intruder in the cottage.
Suddenly the sound of small flapping wings sounded off on the ground in front Gilda. She looked down to see a baby bat that had awoken, looking up at her with big brown eyes at it softly squeaked. Just by the way it was moving Gilda could tell the nocturnal creature was happy to see her, still the giant smile across it's face certainly helped. It then began doing a series of acrobatic spins and twirls throughout the air, even a back-flip or two, and to the seasoned flier witnessing the spectacle it was nothing special but she knew that to the young bat in front of her these where it's best tricks it was busting out, all for her amusement.
Clapping her talons together as she cheered on the brazen little bat, giving light shouts of praise and encouragement as it finished up it's performance. Landing in front of the griffon, it panted a few times before giving a generous bow. Gilda couldn't help but giggle at the cute display.
“Hey, you're a pretty cool little dude aren't you?”, the griffon asked the first friendly face she had seen since her time at the cottage. She received a fast paced nodding in the positive from the wiry little thing. “Well, what should I call you? You do have name don't ya little guy?”
The baby shook itself head left to right, a bit of a sad expression coming over it's face.
“Hey, don't get sad, an awesome bat like you deserves an awesome name! I think I'll call you Drac! That's way better than Dracula, and it doesn't make you sound like you where named by somepony old, like my parents!”
Upon hearing this the bat youth was overjoyed at hearing it's new title. Flying in circles and spirals through the air around it's new friend the griffon couldn't help but laugh. It was the first carefree laugh she had been given in a while.
…
Fluttershy landed with considerable force for a pony known for shyness and grace, a small ring of dust shot out from the impact startling a few nearby ponies. Cracking her neck and performing a few stretches before beginning her day in Ponyville. A calm smile came over her face as she made her way into the town's market.
Idling walking through the many busy shop setups she eyed one in particular that sold a certain fruit that she knew for certain Angel would adore on his cake, though it may be unnecessary for a carrot cake he was doing his best with their unexpected guess so Fluttershy figured it would hurt to treat him further. The pink haired mare made her way to the stand with the cherry on top.
“Hello, mister.” Fluttershy greeted the pegauses who was manning the shop. She instantly recognized him, his light brown coat and dull blond mane, along with his prominent facial hair he was just as they had first meet in their last encounter. “I sure am glad you're open this week. My little bunny Angel STILL wants a cherry to go with his dessert, and seeing as you're the only vender in town...”
Fluttershy did her best to suppress the sinister smile that was building up in her body as to keep up her fragile facade, “I simply MUST have one. Last time I checked it was... one bit, correct?”
She took out a bit from her satchel with her mouth and held it in place, a soft squee coming out from the yellow pony as she looked on to the vendor.
Looking the pony in front of him up and down curiously he then laughed as he remembered this gullible pony from before.
“Oh no,” he began before clearing his throat, “ you see due to 'aggressive increase' in consumer demand I've felt the need to raise the price back up to ten bits...”
Full of himself as he chuckled at the mare's predicament, and what his luck that none of her friends or anypony else was around to help her now. “Like taking candy from a...” His thoughts where cut short when he saw the face on the yellow pony begin to change in an unpleasant manner.
Deadpanned eyes where fixated on the store clerk.
“Aggressive economy, huh? I think you might be mislead on the true meaning of 'aggressive'! Here let me show you!” Fluttershy growled before tackling the pony into his stand and shutting the window. A very short but loud scuffle could be heard and seen by the shaking of the stand from the outside, but after a few seconds subsided. The window opened back up and a joyful Fluttershy hoped back out into the open with a new bag containing a single cherry.
Noticing the rest of the cart owners and shop ponies had witnessed at least part of the scuffle, their disturbed faces trying to come back to normal as they saw her looking in their path. A relaxed look overcame Fluttershy's features. “Well they already know, might as well have fun.”
…
A gray pegasus with a yellow mane came up to the cherry shop owner's booth. Concerned for her manager's well being she peeked her head in to investigate.
“You okay, boss? Anything I can do to help?”
After the sounds of a dozen or so small soft objects being spit on the ground a reply was sounded, “Yes, Derpy, I need you to go look up hospitals that specialize in anal trauma, and um also the average growth cycle of cherry seeds?”
“Why?”
“Derpy, time is a factor...”
…
Setting her many large and filled shopping bags down. Fluttershy decided she would treat herself to a strawberry and lemonade smoothie at the new juice hut that opened in the town square. Finding a comfy seat under one of the tables with an umbrella she let herself relax from all the fun she was having. So many emotions and other strange feelings she had been having around ponies she would normally try to avoid. It was so exciting.
“Good afternoon ma'am!” greeted the waiter. “What can I get for you today?”
“I think I would just love to have one of your 'Super Strawberry and Lemon Mix Smoothies' and a potato salad sandwich.” she replied with a smile.
“Why, certainly ma'am. Will that be all?” After receiving her nod in approval he totaled the bill. “Well then that brings the total to eight bits, please.”
“Oh, well, I'm so sorry to say that I am out of bits thanks to my previous transactions.” She deceivingly said with the seductive bed room eyes she had been perfecting all day. Well they aren’t really that hard to pick up when you've been around Rarity for so long.
“You see I was hoping that a new store with such a fine gentlecoat serving would see that hot little mare like me wouldn't go thirsty, or hungry.” Adding emphasis to the end almost like a moan as she began to lick her lips and even bit her lower lip a little. “You know, because its so hot out.”
“Well I um...” the waiter let the steam out of his uniform's blouse. Trying to fight the internal battle between his raging teen hormones and the wrath of his manager. One look back at the flirtatious mare in front of him and he was decided. “O-of course we at the Mane Juicer would never want a f-fine customer such as yourself to go without, consider your first meal here on the house!” Trotting away from the table he was sure his paycheck was going to be eight bits smaller by the end of the week.
Fluttershy giggled at the display caused by her facade, she didn't know what the new feelings of hers where that caused her to act this way around stallions, and certain mares, but whatever it was she absolutely loved it. After all it had gotten her all this free stuff and she had barely gone a cent over her budget for the day. The ever more nervous waiter brought her over her meal while she was lost in her thoughts.
“Tha-nk you!” she sang as she began to sip on her drink.
“Fluttershy? How are you today, darling? And just how did you simply manage to pay for all these parcels?” Questioned her friend Rarity. Along with her was their party crazy friend Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy nearly spit out her smoothie but contained herself just enough to pass it off for a cough. She hadn't really prepared an explanation for her friends and did her best to shift her mane so her scar wasn't visible, all while racing though her mind to find a suitable source for all her items.
“Hello girls, I'm just fine thanks! Um, about the bags... there was a.. sale?” she meekly presented herself. No need for them to get worried about the sudden changes going on with her just yet. She'd ease them into it.
Pinkie Pie and Rarity just looked at each other for a moment before Pinkie Pie blurted out, “Wow! We where JUST through the WHOLE market! Must have just missed those quick power sales, ahh oh well that’s the economy for you. Gotta be aggressive if you wanna make it I guess.”
“Ha ha, yeah I guess you're right, Pinkie Pie.” Fluttershy did her best not to blurt her laughter, letting go of a few nervous giggles in place of it.
That being reason enough, the three began to chat for a while about this and that until the topic of the strange noises being heard at her house last night came up. Simply passing it off as a dispute between a bunch of unruly creatures from the Everfree had, and that it was no longer a problem, her friends dismissed it without a second thought. They also asked Fluttershy if she was okay, concerned that she was acting a bit strange during their chat, using the excuse that 'last night was a dozy to handle' satiated their curiosity. With that out of the way Fluttershy told them she was needed back home and had to go.
Waving her friends off she picked up her many bags and began back the trip back to her cottage.