Equestria's Imperfectionsby fluttercordlover232ChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 6Chapter 7Chapter 8Chapter 9Chapter 10Chapter 11Chapter 12Chapter 13Chapter 14Chapter 15Chapter 1The morning sun shone brightly through their bedroom window. Fluttershy's eyes fluttered open as she sat up and got out of bed, giving her legs a good stretch. She looked over her shoulder to see Discord still asleep, his back to her. This wasn't unusual, Discord always got up a little later then she did. Fluttershy always gets up at literally the crack of dawn every day to feed all her animals. She starts off by checking in on her six month old son, Cachi. After she makes sure he is alright, she has a shower, and then goes and gives all her little friends breakfast, by the time she comes back in, she checks in on Cachi again, who is awake by now and brings him down to the kitchen so she can keep an eye on him while making breakfast for the three of them. By the time she finishes setting the table, and the food is almost done, Discord would come down and greet his wife and son each with a kiss on the cheek. Today was no different. However, as Fluttershy was preparing the oatmeal, she thought back to the day little Cachi was born. Even though it was almost a year ago, the memories were still fresh in her mind like it just happened yesterday. She sighed happily as she looked back on the day that changed her life for the better. Fluttershy stared down lovingly at the baby wrapped tightly in a purple blanket that was now her son. He was a perfect hybrid of his parents. He had the same head and body shape as Discord, but in the same shade of yellow as Fluttershy. He had two tiny bumps on his head where his horn and antler would grow, but unlike Discord, where the antler was on the right side of his head and the horn was on his left; their son was the opposite. By the looks of it, his deer antler will grow on the left side of his head while the horn will grow on his right. His eyes were the same size, shape, and color as Fluttershy, and a short black mane that was growing out the same way as Discord's. The baby had a red snake tail like his father, with tiny pink spikes on it and the tiniest tuft of pink curled fur at the end of it. His front legs were that of a lion paw and an eagle claw, and his back legs were yellow hooves that matched Fluttershy's to a T. He had wings exactly like his father's, but lacked his father's snaggletooth and beard. Discord sat quietly next to her on the edge of the bed, his eyes locked on his son. Never in a millennia would he have ever thought of falling in love, much less having children. He and Fluttershy have talked about having foals of their own, but they never thought it would happen because of their species difference. It shouldn't have been that big of a surprise when they found out they were expecting, nothing with Discord made sense! Then again, Discord was part pony, so he supposed it did somewhat. Discord tentatively brought out an eagle claw and very gently stroked his son's cheek. Tears of happiness slowly fell down his face as he continued to stroke his son. "What did I ever do to deserve this Fluttershy?" He whispered to his wife, without taking his eyes off the little bundle in her hooves . "Oh Discord, you deserve happiness as much as the next pony." She whispered back. "Do you want to hold him?" She gently handed him to her husband, who very carefully cradled him in the crook of his eagle arm, and used his fingers from his lion paw to gently move the blanket away from his face. Seeing his child was one thing, but to actually hold the living, breathing, being he had helped create was an entirely new feeling that felt all the more real. Discord's heart swelled with love and protectiveness for the baby he held in his arms. He vowed to himself that he would always keep him safe, even until the end of time itself. "He's perfect...absolutely perfect....just like his mother." he leaned over to give Fluttershy a gentle kiss on the lips. "I thought I would leave the name up to you dear, what should your son's name be?" she asked softly. Discord thought for a moment. He wanted his son to have a name that'll show the peacefulness and goodness in his heart, unlike his. "How about Cachi? with a name like that, nopony can doubt what's in his heart." "That's an interesting name. What does it mean?" Discord looked down at his son, and then back at Fluttershy as he said. "Bringer of peace." ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy was snapped out of her reminising as she heard Discord clonking down the stairs. His cloven hoof and lizard foot making a clonking noise as they came into contact with the wooden floors. He walked into the kitchen and as usual, greeted Cachi and Fluttershy with a kiss on the cheek. "Good morning my love, did you sleep well?" "I always do when you're with me." She winked at him. Discord's fur literally stood on end as he growled playfully. "Oh really? Well, maybe I need to see for myself as proof. I need to have a clear consience that you are getting enough sleep." He purred. Fluttershy gave him a knowing look as she said "Discord! not in front of Cachi" Discord chuckled as he walked over to his son and picked him up out of his high chair. "Oh come on my dear, he's not even one! He doesn't understand what I mean, heck! He can't even say full sentences yet!" He pointed out. Fluttershy sighed and rolled her eyes. "Still, I don't want his first sentence to be anything along the lines of that!" She gave him a glare. It was Discord's turn to roll his eyes. "You worry too much my dear." "And I have good reason to!" Discord chuckled again as he slipped Cachi back in his high chair. "And I love you all the more for it." Fluttershy looked at him and smiled. He returned her smile and floated over to her and gave her a soft peck on the lips. He floated back over to the table and sat on one of the open seats just as Fluttershy placed a glass of chocolate milk and a bowl of Discord's favorite oatmeal in front of him. Which included chocolate syrup, ketchup, and some marshmallows (which sounded and looked really disgusting to Fluttershy, but then again, nothing ever made sense with Discord!) Fluttershy sat in an open chair next to Discord. She was about to take her first bite out of her oatmeal, when she heard a barely audible moan coming from beside her. She turned to see Discord massaging his temple with his fingers. He didn't notice as Fluttershy frowned and looked at him with a concerned expression on her face. "Are you okay Discord?" Fluttershy asked. "What's wrong?' Discord sighed and stopped messaging his temple to look at her. "I'm okay love, I just had a sudden headache come on, that's all." This explanation didn't make Fluttershy feel any better from the growing concern forming in the pit of her stomach. "B-b-but.....you never get headaches. Ever." Discord looked at her. He suddenly started to look really tired, exhausted even. His eyes were sunken in and he had bags under them, which weren't there before. Fluttershy tried to think back to earlier this morning. Maybe she hadn't noticed until now? No! That couldn't be it! He had acted like his normal, chipper, self earlier. Discord wasn't normally a morning person, but he would always get over his crankiness of waking up as soon as he saw the lovely faces of his wife and son. Besides, Discord wasn't being cranky at the moment, he just seemed more tired than usual; but for him to suddenly go from being happy and mischievous, to being quiet and somber...it just didn't sit right with Fluttershy. "Everypony gets headaches now and then, it is nothing to worry about." "Yes, but...." "There's always a first for everything my dear." Discord interrupted as he patted her head. "There's nothing for you to worry about." Fluttershy hid the frown that was forming on her face. But there is. I just know it... Chapter 2Fluttershy watched as Discord got up from the table and walked toward the swinging door leading into the kitchen. He pushed it open and disappeared inside. Fluttershy let out a small sigh, but soft enough that he wouldn't hear. It was true that Discord was overly confident and self absorbed sometimes, but he was as stubborn as a mule when it came to his flaws. Especially, if some pony were to see. Even though Fluttershy and Discord have been married for over three years, and he trusted her completly, he still tended to try and hide them from her. Although Fluttershy often got annoyed at him for this, she also understood why he did it. The former 'Lord of Chaos' firmly believed that flaws were a sign of one's weakness and limitations. He didn't have anything against flaws or anything, it was just his own opinion. Discord's true nature had been the exact opposite of that. He knew he had changed for the better and wanted everypony to know that, but it would sometimes come to a point when Discord would say it was "putting his guard down." He didn't want to show that he completely abandoned his old ways, but at the same time he wanted everypony to accept him. He liked to think of it as a chocolate milk filled cotton candy cloud. You could have refreshing chocolate milk, and sweet, super fluffy cotton candy, but only together and with the perfect balence of each can you have a perfect chocolate milk cotton candy cloud. Too much or too little of one or the other doesn't taste as good. It's the best of both worlds, so to speak. As Fluttershy sat there, continuing to think about this, she heard a loud clatter coming from the kitchen that snapped her out of her thoughts. It sounded like some of her pots and pans fell to the floor. Thinking it was Angel scrounging around looking for food. "Now Angel, I've told you plenty of times before that if you want a snack you have to ask me politely first, not make a loud mess in my kitchen." She said without getting up from the table. Hearing his name, Angel hopped out from the opposite side of the room and tilted his head, confused at what his owner just said. Fluttershy gave a small frown when she noticed Angel standing on the other side of the room giving her a confused look. Fluttershy became even more puzzled. She said, "b-but..if you didn't make that noise..then..who...?" She trailed off for a second, suddenly realizing who it could most likely be. "Discord?" She called out nervously. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ After a few moments of unpleasant silence, Fluttershy flew into the the kitchen. Discord was collapsed on the kitchen floor. Fluttershy gasped and immediately landed beside him. "Discord!" He was unconscious, Fluttershy put her ear to his chest, she was relieved to hear his heart beating and to see his chest steadily rising and falling with each breath. "Oh thank goodness." Fluttershy breathed in relief. She gently nuzzled her head against his cheek, "Discord?" She said gently. He groaned and opened his eyes. "Flu-Fluttershy? What happened?" He slowly stood up to all fours. "I don't know, I was just sitting at the table and heard a loud noise in the kitchen. I thought it was Angel Bunny looking for a snack, but he was all the way across the other side of the room." She told him. "Are you okay?" She said as she put a hoof on his shoulder. "Yes, I-I think so." He said. Fluttershy put her hoof down and looked at him with concern. "Y-you mean, you don't remember what happened?" "No, not really." Discord slowly got up to stand on two feet. Fluttershy hovered next to him to help him if he needed it. "Are you sure you're alright honey?" She asked one more time. Discord slowly nodded in response. "I'm fine darling, really." He said kind of tiredly. Fluttershy wasn't entirely convinced, but she didn't say anything. "Discord, I..I really think you should go back upstairs and lay down for a little bit." Fluttershy said nicely. "Nonsense, I'm perfectly fine my love. I just had a stumble, nothing more." He gripped the edge of a nearby counter as he said this, in which Fluttershy took notice of. It's almost like...he's using it to...to keep his balance... Fluttershy shook that last thought from her head, now she knew she was overthinking the situation too much. Discord was right, she does worry too much! At the same time however, something was kicking her inside, telling her that she had every right to worry... She ignored the feeling and looked up at her husband, who still had his lion paw gripped to the counter. Fluttershy noticed that Discord hung his head down and had his eyes tightly shut, and his face was contorted in pain. Another headache perhaps...? Fluttershy could tell he was trying to hide this from her. She sighed, and said nicely but sternly, "Honey, I really think you should go lie down, at least for a little while. Pretty please?" She said that last part with her signature move, which was with half of her face hiding behind her mane. For she knew how it affected Discord, he always found it so adorable and would always give in to whatever she wanted. "Oh sweetheart, you know I can't resist that cute, innocent face! Sweet Celestia! Look what you've done to me! The Lord of Chaos has become the Lord of Softies!" Fluttershy smiled as she thought back on that memory. Even after all these years, he would still fall in her trap of submission and admitting defeat. "Come on honey, go upstairs and I'll meet you there as soon as I finish cleaning the dishes, no doubt your bowl of oatmeal will need some extra scrubbing!" She giggled and flew up to Discord and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Go on my love, I'll be right there." Fluttershy said kindly. "Alright." Discord mumbled reluctantly, and headed for the stairs leading to their bedroom. "I'll be up there in a minute my love." She called softly. Chapter 3As promised, Fluttershy finished cleaning from breakfast and flew upstairs, with Cachi in her arms. She opened the door leading to their bedroom and quietly walked inside. She used her back hoof to gently shut the door behind her, and walked over to where Discord lay on his side of the bed. Discord was lying under the covers as he laid on his back, staring up at the ceiling. He turned his head to look at Fluttershy as she was approaching. "Hey honey, how are you feeling?" she said gently as she put a hoof to his forehead. She was surprised to feel that he felt a bit warm. She only meant for it to be a comforting gesture, not to check for a fever. However, she didn't dawn on it too much, she automatically assumed it was just because that Discord was under the covers. Cachi was struggling in Fluttershy's grip, trying to reach for his father. Before Fluttershy could attempt to hold him out for Discord to take, he flashed out of Fluttershy's grip, and flashed onto Discord's chest. He was slightly startled by his son's random appearance so close to his face, but chuckled nonetheless. He started to carefully throw him a little ways into the air, making sure to always catch him with his paw and claw. His son laughing and smiling widely as he did so. "I'm fine my love, maybe a little tired, but that's all. I'm only doing this because you insisted." He stopped throwing Cachi. "Well, I want you to try and go back to sleep for a little bit and see if that helps. Did you not sleep well last night? Did Cachi wake you up? If so, you could've gotten me..." Discord cut her off. "No, he didn't wake me, and even if he did, I wouldn't have woken you. You already do so much for this little guy, and at the same time, put up with me! You need your sleep." He told her. Fluttershy was about to say something else, but just as she opened her mouth to speak, Discord gave a great yawn. Wide enough to see all of his sharp teeth. Fluttershy took her son from Discord. "Alright mister! You are going to bed! No excuses!" Fluttershy said nicely, but firmly. She was putting her hoof down this time. Discord gave her an answering yawn, which put more truth to Fluttershy's statement. "Alright, if you insist. Only for a few minutes though." He reluctantly answered. "I will let you sleep however long you need it." She said matter-of-factly. Discord turned over on his side, with is back to her. Fluttershy leaned over and gave him a kiss on his cheek. "Get some rest love." She whispered. She quietly flew out of the room with Cachi in her arms. She quietly closed the door behind her so as not to disturb Discord. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy was growing more worried as each hour passed. Discord usually never slept this long. It was early morning when she sent him to get more rest, and now the day was almost over. The sun was setting behind the distant hillsides of Equestria, the earliest specks of Luna's stars just starting to appear in the sky. Fluttershy wouldn't have been as worried if he woke up in spurts. He didn't wake up for lunch or dinner, or even when Cachi cried, and that sound always woke him up. Eventually, it was time to put Cachi down for the night. He was sound asleep before his head even hit the blanket that was lining the crib. Fluttershy smiled down at him and gave him a kiss on his forehead before she turned and closed the door a crack. Fluttershy walked to the bedroom where she and Discord slept, and without a sound, flew inside. It was completely dark outside by this time, with the moon already high in the sky. Moonlight shone through the window, turning everything it touched to a ghastly white. Fluttershy walked up to Discord's side. He looked pale in the moonlight, but what was odd to her was that it wasn't just his face, it was his whole body. She looked at everything not covered with the blankets. His jet black mane was turning a grayish color, and the fur on his lion paw seemed to be turning a very very light yellow, a little lighter than Fluttershy's coat. Fluttershy knew she was overthinking the situation way too much, and she mentally scolded herself for it. But at the same time, after everything that has happened today, she didn't want to take a chance. A small part of her was telling her that this was more complicated than just moonlight. Even with the moonlight shinning on him, it just seemed unnatural to Fluttershy. It was true that the moon gave off enough light to navigate through the dark room, but at the same time, it wasn't big or bright enough to give him that effect. Even if it was, the bed wasn't close enough to the window anyway. Fluttershy climbed onto her side of the bed, she leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before turning over and snuggling deeper into the covers. She drifted off to a dreamless sleep. Chapter 4Fluttershy's eyes fluttered open as the light of day hit her face. She yawned and sat up in bed, raising her forelegs in a stretch. As she did, her eyes drifted over to the still sleeping form of Discord. Still in the same position he was in the night before, with his back to her. As she slid off the bed to begin her day, she heard a ruffle of the sheets and a long drawn out sigh, which almost sounded content. Fluttershy took this as a good sign. "Honey, are you awake?" She turned to look over her shoulder "How are you feeling? Any better?" She asked as she walked over to his bedside. However, what she saw made her heart drop. There was no moonlight now to convince her otherwise, his mane was completely gray, along with his goatee, his bushy eyebrows, and probably the tuft of his tail. His lion paw was still that very very light yellow as the night before. His eagle claw was the same shade of light yellow as his lion paw. The fur that made up his head and neck was a lighter shade of gray, not quite white yet. Fluttershy realized his mane was now the same shade of gray his head used to be, and his once blue horn on his head was now as white as his deer antler. Fluttershy couldn't hold back the small gasp that escaped her lips as Discord opened his eyes. That concerned Fluttershy the most. His once mesmerizing red and yellow pupils where now a foggy white. It reminded Fluttershy of what everyponys eyes looked like when Tirek..stole all their..magic... Oh no. Discord saw the fear in her eyes. "What's wrong Fluttershy?" Pure exhaustion evident in his voice. He reached his eagle claw out to her, only for her to back away from him, looking absolutely terrified. Confusion and hurt were in Discord's eyes as he looked at his wife. Fluttershy saw this and immediately felt bad. She didn't mean to step away from him, it was the shock that scared her. Poor Discord had probably thought she was afraid of him. Fluttershy shook her head to clear it and trotted back over to Discord. "I'm sorry honey, I didn't mean to back up from you like that." She said as she nuzzled his cheek with her own. Discord giving off a throaty sounding purr as she did. "Forgive me love?" "Of course my love." He gave her a quick gentle kiss on the lips. "But why did you..?" "I was just really startled." She sighed. "Do you remember how my eyes were white and foggy after Tirek took all my wing power?" Discord shamefully lowered his head. "How could I forget?" He said with shame. "That wouldn't have happened if I didn't give you to him." He said with a low growl. "But what does that have to do with...?" He was cut off by a cry from the other room. Fluttershy gave an apologetic sigh, but before she left to tend to Cachi she turned back to Discord, who was trying desperately to keep his eyes open. "No no honey, don't fight it." She stroked his cheek gently, his eagle claw laying on top of the hoof on his cheek. "You need to succumb to the demands your body needs to recover." She was pleased to see that he let his eyes close and his claw slowly slid down from her outstretched hoof until it fell gently to his lap. She chuckled slightly and used her teeth to pull the covers up closer to him. She gave him a kiss on his forehead, but reeled back in surprise when her lips touched the burning hot skin. Fluttershy had hidden her anxiety for the sake of Discord, but she couldn't hide it any longer. Luckily, Discord was asleep, so he couldn't see the panic that was rapidly forming on her face. She turned and left the room quickly. She entered her son's room and flew over to the crib. "I'm sorry sweetie." She apologized sweetly to her son as she picked him up. "I think something is really wrong with daddy." Cachi didn't seem to be listening to her as he flapped his tiny wings and glided out of Fluttershy's grasp. Little arms outstretched, he laughed happily as he flapped out of the room. Fluttershy chuckled as she shook her head and flew off after her son. His laughter echoed of the walls of the castle. Chapter 5Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 6Author's Note Hey guys! As always please leave feedback and let me know of any grammar mistakes. Chapter 6 Fluttershy flew with as much speed she could muster trying to get to Twilght's castle, all the while carrying a struggling Cachi. When she finally landed in front of Twilight's castle, she paused to catch her breath before knocking on the shiny crystal doors. After a short minute, the door opened. "Oh, hi Fluttershy, what brings you he-" Fluttershy thrust her son into Twilight's hooves before she could finish what she was saying. Before Twilight could ask, Fluttershy answered her unanswered question. "I need you to watch Cachi for me Twilight." She then hid behind her mane. "I..I mean, if you want to..." She mumbled, but loud enough to hear. "Well, of course I will Fluttershy! But what's..?" "Something's come up. I can't explain now, it's too long of a story. I don't know how long I'll need you to watch him, I'll come by and get him when things calm down a little bit and l can figure out what is going on. I trust you the most with Cachi. Not that I don't trust the others...which I do of course...you're really smart and know everything about everything...not that the others aren't smart...which they are but...I um...oh dear." Fluttershy spoke with less and less confidence than when she started. Twilight giggled a little, despite the seriousness of the situation. "I get it Fluttershy. Is there anything else I could do to help?" She asked sincerely. "You are helping enough as it is. Thanks Twilight." Fluttershy pulled her friend into a hug. After they pulled apart from the short embrace, Fluttershy turned and gave her son a quick kiss on the cheek. "I'll be back soon, and be good for Auntie Twilight. I love you." Fluttershy turned back to Twilight. "Please let me know if he causes you any trouble." "Oh please, he's fine. Sure, he's a bit of a handful, but is that really a surprise considering Discord is the father?" Twilight smiled. They both laughed, and at last, Fluttershy took off to the sky. She looked behind her one more time to find Twilight smiling and waving at her from below. Eventually, Twilight and Cachi disappeared from view as Fluttershy flew higher and higher towards where Rainbow Dash had her home on the clouds. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy flew to the house in the clouds that was Rainbow Dash's. The rainbows that were decorated around her home shone more brightly than ever. She hovered in front of the door, the thin air making it harder to catch her breath, especially after her speedy flight from Twilight's. When she got to the point where she could breathe comfortably she rang the doorbell. Which of course, was the "Daring Do" theme song, which was just recently made into a movie. Rainbow Dash came to the door quicker than Twilight did. Before Rainbow even opened the door all the way, Fluttershy started rapidly explaining what she needed her to do. "Dash-you're-fast-I-need-you-to-fly-to-Zecora's-as-fast-as-you-can-and-tell-her-to-come-to-my-home-it's-an-emergency!" Fluttershy was panting after she said this. "Hello to you too." Rainbow Dash said bluntly. "Oh..I'm sorry..how rude of me...um...hello Rainbow." Fluttershy said shyly. Rainbow smirked and chuckled slightly. "I was only teasing Flutters. Now, can you calmly explain to me what's going on...? Huh, never thought I would ever say that to you." She shrugged. So once again, Fluttershy repeated what she had said earlier, but at her normal softer pace. After she finished, Rainbow Dash saluted her and said, "I'm on it!" and took off. Her iconic rainbow trail highlighting her path behind her. The gust of wind from her sudden take off blew her mane and whipped her face, forcing her to tightly shut her eyes. As soon as the wind had ceased and she was able to open her eyes again, she sped off towards the castle where a bedridden Discord was waiting. Chapter 7Fluttershy anxiously paced around her bedroom as she waited for Zecora's arrival. Every so often looking up from her pacing to look back at Discord. As each minute on the clock past, she was becoming more and more desperate. Finally, after what felt like hours, there was a knock on the door. Fluttershy sighed in relief and hurried downstairs. She opened the door to see Rainbow Dash with an out of breath Zecora, who had a cartful of potions and healing herbs harnessed to her back. "I heard what was the matter, no time for idle chatter!" She said as she trotted in. "Thank you so much for coming on such short notice Zecora." Fluttershy said as she closed the door after Rainbow and Zecora had entered. "You are most welcome, dear Fluttershy. Now tell me, can you specify?" "Well I..I can certainly try." Fluttershy put her hoof to her chin as she thought. "He..he started to suddenly go downhill yesterday. He was more tired than usual, but I didn't think anything of it at first. He complained of headaches, and that really worried me. Discord has never gotten a headache in his life and just shrugged it off like it was nothing! He also slept for eight hours yesterday, which is highly unusual for anypony." She told her as much as she possibly could. "And what of today? Do those symptoms still stay?" "I..I think so. He's so weak right now he can't tell me how he feels. He hasn't complained of headaches yet, but other than that, the rest of the symptoms from yesterday still stands. Although, they are getting a lot worse." Zecora's ears perked up when she said that last part. "Oh? And how is this so?" She tilted her head, waiting for Fluttershy's answer. "It...it's hard to explain. It might be easier if you see for yourself." She pointed her hoof towards their room. "He's upstairs." Zecora nodded and undid the latch on the harness that was around her back, freeing herself of the extra weight she was pulling. With the cart no longer attached to her, she started for the stairs when Rainbow stopped her. "Wait, why can't Discord just go to a hospital or somethin if he's as sick as you say? Wouldn't it be easier than having to go through all this trouble?" Rainbow Dash didn't have to elaborate, everypony knew what she meant. Zecora saved Fluttershy the trouble of answering and replied for her. "Discord has many different physical features. The doctors and nurses are only familiar with one kind of creature. Since each part of him has a different need, the doctors won't know how to proceed." Zecora explained. "So what you're saying is...is that because he's made up of different species, the doctors wouldn't know the specific medical needs of each animal he's made up of? Well then why don't we just take him to a vet? They know all sorts of different animals right?" Rainbow Dash argued. Zecora shook her head. "While is is true that they do, they won't know how each treatment will effect him. With such different limbs, they wouldn't want to risk his chances being slim." "Huh?" Rainbow Dash said with puzzled look on her face. Fluttershy walked over to Zecora's side. "I think what she's saying is that even though they're familiar with the different body types of different animals, they only know each species by itself. With so many different animal parts on one being, they don't know if the medical treatment required for that certain part will end of killing him. Since all the different parts of different species on him work well and compromise with his body, they don't want to chance breaking up that compromise if they inject him with five different medical treatments. Right Zecora?" She turned her head to look at the zebra. "Indeed" She nodded simply. "Oh." Rainbow Dash said blankly. "I guess that makes sense..sorta." ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ When the trio entered the bedroom, as soon as they entered the room, everypony fell into an eerie and shocked silence at seeing Discord's condition. Zecora walked up to where Discord lay and at first simply started to look him over. Then she put an ear to his chest to hear him breathe. It was ragged and shallow, and she could tell that each intake of breath was a struggle for him. Fluttershy waited with bated breath as she watched Zecora examining her husband. She noticed the slight frown that was on the zebra's face, which concerned her all the more. If Zecora; the one who knew everything about magical ailments and potions was worried, then it must be really bad. Fluttershy took a deep breath and walked up to Zecora, who was still at Discord's bedside. Not sure if she was ready or not to hear what she had to say. Chapter 8Zecora turned around as Fluttershy approached. The look in the pegasus' eyes made what Zecora had to tell her all the more heartbreaking. "Did you figure out what's wrong with him?" Fluttershy whispered, as she glanced at Discord. Her eyes misting with tears as she looked hopefully at Zecora. Zecora sighed, "Indeed I have, but what I have to say is nothing to laugh" She straightened up tall to show the importance and the seriousness of the situation. Fluttershy got the message of Zecora's position. She gulped, bracing herself for the worst. "I am afraid the news is tragic, for he is starting to lose his chaos magic." Fluttershy gasped when Zecora said that. A part of her was expecting that to be the case when she took note that Discord was only getting worse instead of better. However, at the same time, she also was not expecting it. She started to softly cry "How is that possible? Do you have any idea on what could've caused this?" Fluttershy looked at Zecora with so much hope shining in her eyes right then, that it broke her heart further to tell the little pegasus that this was one thing which her potions couldn't fix. Zecora sighed, and the way she did gave Fluttershy her answer. "His suffering, I wish I could undo. But, I think I have something that might be able to give you a clue." She walked away from Fluttershy and headed toward the stairs. Fluttershy glanced up, her eyes held the faintest spark of hope within their depths. She watched as Zecora descended down the stairs. She turned to look at her husband, just looking at him when he's like this brought tears to her eyes, she walked up to his side and gently put a hoof on his lion paw. It felt colder than before "It..it'll be okay honey...Zecora's trying to help..to...to help you feel better.." Each word becoming softer and softer as she let out quiet cries. She nuzzled her head under his chin, resting her head on his neck as she gave out more quiet sobs. Her ear twitched when she heard Zecora's hoof steps coming back up the stairs. She sighed and pulled her head away from where it was laying on Discord's neck. She gave him a light kiss on his cheek, and then turned to Zecora, who was approaching carrying a vial of white liquid in her mouth. Fluttershy stared at it quizzically with an eyebrow raised. The liquid was the same color and consitency as milk, and it also reminded Fluttershy of the potion Twilight drank when she was trying to figure out why the Everfree Forest was invading, when she first became a princess. Zecora stopped in front of Fluttershy and gently put the vial on the ground. She looked up at Fluttershy and said, "This potion will tell you of the future, present, or past. It may show you why his magic is disappearing so fast." Fluttershy looked at the potion on the ground skeptically, then back at Discord, who hadn't woken up from his potentially fatal slumber. She looked back at Zecora. "How does it work?" She said full of determination. Zecora smiled at her, proud of the determination the young, timid pegasus was showing. "You simply think about what you wish to see, as long as it's a question regarding those three. It cannot answer specific questions, so wishing it to show you something is my suggestion." She said. Fluttershy looked down at the bottle one last time before picking it up and holding it in her hoof. She closed her eyes to think of a way to ask her question, without a question. Show me what is taking away Discord's magic. She opened her eyes and popped the lid off with her teeth. She took a decent sip of the potion. When she was done, she licked her lips, evaluating the taste. Fluttershy waited a few minutes for the potion to take effect. After about five minutes, she opened her mouth to tell Zecora that she had accidentally given her the wrong potion. When Fluttershy opened her mouth to say just that, her eyes suddenly widened and turned completely white as the potion started to work... Fluttershy was in the Everfree Forest. The place that seemed so unnatural to ponykind. Where the plants grow, animals care for themselves, and the clouds move, all on their own! Not only that, it was also filled with strange and terrifying creatures that nopony wanted to face, especially Fluttershy. The scene shifted, and she found herself in a cave inside of a gorge. The cave was filled with a bright white light that was even brighter than Celestia's sun. When the light softened enough, she saw a tall, magnificent tree made purely out of crystal. It was absolutely breathtaking. It was then she saw the symbols intricately carved into the trunk. On the bottom was a blazing sun. Above it, was a crescent moon. Finally, at the top of the tree was a shimmering star... Suddenly, a light purple aura trail was seeping into the crystal tree. The small trail was coming from somewhere outside of the cave. The scene changed again. This time, Fluttershy saw Discord, lying in bed and hardly moving except for the small rising and falling of his chest. The transparency of his body was becoming dimmer and dimmer. There was a light purple aura surrounding him. It left his body in the form of a trail and was leading outside. The scene shifted one last time to reveal the crystal tree once more. The purple aura trail split and went to six different places on the tree that seemed to represent the tops of the branches. One trail was leading into one branch that had a purple diamond shaped stone. Three more trails were leading into an apple, a lightening bolt, and balloon shaped stones. And the last two were leading into a butterfly and a star shaped stone... Fluttershy blinked the white away as the vision ended. She rubbed her eyes to rid of the blurriness. She looked at Zecora, who was calmly sitting on her haunches. There was no emotion on the zebra's face as she looked up at the pegasus. "Well? Did you find anything of use? Or what has caused his magic to diffuse?" Fluttershy didn't know what to say, she was so shocked on what she just found out. Gathering her thoughts together, she gulped and looked at Zecora. "Y-yes...I-I think the Elements of Harmony are causing this..." Chapter 9Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 10"I..I can't leave him. The rest of you have to go find the Elements...I'm staying here..." Fluttershy looked around the room, which was filled with an awkward silence. Then everypony started speaking at once. "Fluttershy you can't! We need you! We need all of us.." Twilight indicated to the rest of the Mane six, "To make the Elements work!" "Darling, you can't be serious!" "Sugarcube, you're crazier than a filly on a sugar high!" "Yeah! That's super crazy! Fluttershy's not on a sugar high and when you're on a sugar high you have so much energy you just keep going on and on and on and you talk so much it drives ponies insane which I can't imagine why I love to talk I mean who doesn't like to talk..." Pinkie droned on in her usual excited tone. Everypony, including Zecora, stared at the bouncing pink mare strangely with raised eyebrows. "Pinkie Pie, you are so random." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. Zecora walked up to Fluttershy and put a comforting hoof on her shoulder. "What you're friends are saying is true, this is something you need to do." She said sympathetically. Fluttershy looked away from her, "But, what if I go and he.." she didn't have to finish. "He'll be all alone and…" Her voice started to tremble and she couldn't continue. "We understand Fluttershy but...we also won't figure out how to stop the Elements from taking Discord's magic if we're not all there." Twilight reasoned. Twilight approached Fluttershy and lay a comforting hoof on top of hers. "If you don't come with us Fluttershy, we won't be able to power up the Elements, and if we can't power up the Elements..then we won't be able to stop Discord from fading." She murmured. Fluttershy gasped and covered her mouth with her hoof. She shut her eyes as she felt the impending tears fall down her cheeks once again. Then, Fluttershy got an idea that will allow her to do both. "How about you bring the Elements here!? That way, I can still be with Discord and be with the Elements at the same time! Please Twilight?" Fluttershy gave her the biggest puppy eyes ever. Twilight shook her head sadly. "We can't Fluttershy. We need the tree to-" "No we don't, remember back when the Everfree Forest was invading? And you took one of Zecora's potions to find out why it was happening? You said you saw a flashback of when Princess Celestia and Princess Luna first discovered the Tree of Harmony. Princess Celestia mentioned something about the magic the tree possessed, do you remember what she said?" In a sudden rush, everything was all coming back to Twilight. She recalled Princess Celestia's words... 'Even without these Elements, the Tree of Harmony will possess a powerful magic. As long as that magic remains, it will continue to control and contain all that grows here.' She shook her head to be rid of the memory and looked at Fluttershy. "Yes, I suppose that's true. But we had to give the Elements back to stop the Everfree Forest from invading, remember? What if we take them from the tree again and something a lot worse than roots happens?" She pointed out. "Now that I'm thinking about it Twilight, we had to give them back to the Tree of Harmony because the magic to keep it alive was dying. After we returned them, everything went back to normal and the Elements had to replenish all the magic that the tree had lost. It's been three years now since that incident happened. I for one, do believe that it has had plenty of time to rejuvenate itself. It can't hurt to take them away for at least a little while. We'll put them back as soon as we're done." Rarity said. "I..don't know..." Twilight said, hesitantly biting her lip. "Rarity sure does make a valid point Twi. Surely it ain't worth fussin about?" Applejack spoke out. "Yeah! And besides, Discord's meanie roots are what crashed the party remember?" Pinkie said. "Pinkie, we weren't having a party when Discord's roots sprouted." Reminded Rainbow Dash. "Exactly! Because he crashed it!" Rainbow facehoofed when she said that. Everypony looked to Twilght, waiting for an answer. Twilight grunted "Ugh! Fine! But we have to hurry!" Fluttershy had tears of joy in her eyes. "Oh thank you Twilight!" She flew off the bed and gave her the biggest hug. "Thank you! Thank you so much! You have no idea how much this means to me!" Fluttershy cried against her shoulder. Twilight hugged her back just as tightly. "Alright, if we're going to do this, let's do it!" Twilight stomped her hoof in determination. Chapter 11Author's Note Hey guys, sorry this chapter took a little longer. I'm going to try and do better about posting a new chapter a day or two! As always, please like and comment, and please tell me of any grammar mistakes should you spot them. THANKS!!! Chapter 11 Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack were walking in the Everfree Forest, heading towards the Castle of the Two Sisters, where the Tree of Harmony had planted itself inside a gorge. Twilight wrote to Princess Celestia before they started their journey, to see if she could tell them anything useful. Princess Celestia wrote back and said that she would meet them at the Tree of Harmony. Everypony was hopeful at this, knowing that the Princess was going to meet them there meant that she had some value information about the subject. However, the traveling ponies didn't know if it was good or bad, but it was news nevertheless, so it would be helpful either way. "What do you think Princess Celestia will say y'all?" Applejack started the conversation. "I don't know Applejack, but I do hope it's insightful." Rarity said. "Any information she has will be insightful, Rarity. Even if it's good or bad." Twilight told her. "I'm kinda hoping theres going to be some horrible monster behind all this!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "You know this is the Elements doing, right?" Twilight inquired. "Yeah. But I meant that maybe there is some kind of monster making the Elements do this! Because that would be totally awesome!" Rainbow cleared up. "No silly! The Elements are making themselves do it! Wait, do what again?" Pinkie cocked her head in confusion. Twilight sighed and rolled her eyes. "Typical Pinkie." _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy sat at Discord's bedside. Her friends left a little more than an hour ago to get to the Tree of Harmony. She glanced at Zecora who was about to go out the door that led out of the bedroom to leave, seeing as her work was done. Fluttershy stopped her just as her tail was disappearing behind the door. "Is there anything else I can do for him while I wait for the girls to bring back the Elements?" Fluttershy asked. Zecora looked back at her. "There is nothing you or I can do, but for now, I must bid you adieu. I have so much work that it's practically driving me berserk!" Zecora laughed. "Oh my...I'm so sorry! How selfish of me...keeping you here by chatting with you and not even thinking about you or how you might have other things to do..." Zecora raised her hoof to stop Fluttershy from continuing. "That's quite alright my dear. I think the best thing you can do for him is to just be near." She told her with a soft smile. "Of course." Fluttershy sniffed. "Thank you so much again for coming." Zecora smiled. "I am happy to help. If you need me, just give a yelp!" She chuckled. She turned and disappeared down the stairs. Fluttershy heard her close the door behind her as she left. It was only the two of them once again. That was short lived though, as Angel Bunny entered the bedroom and started to thump his foot on the ground annoyingly. His little paws folded across his chest as he glared at Flutttershy. Fluttershy sighed and got off the bed. "I'm sorry Angel, there has been so much going on earlier that I completely forgot about your lunch. I'll make your special recipe to make it up too you. I even have the cherry for the top this time!" Fluttershy tried to say cheerfully. She gave Discord a quick kiss on the forehead and headed towards the door. Angel gave a 'hmph' sound, before finally following Fluttershy out. Chapter 12Twilight and the others entered the glowing cavern where the Tree of Harmony was waiting, and hopefully, Princess Celestia as well. The five walked in with bated breath as they gazed in awe at the vibrant crystal tree that stood tall before them, and standing at the base of the tree was Princess Celestia. Her flowing mane gently billowing beside her. "I'm glad you all are here. There is a matter of great importance that I wish to discuss with you." She said seriously. Her face was set stiff with much seriousness and determination. "Do ya' know what this is all about, Princess?" Applejack questioned. "Unfortunately, I do." Princess Celestia said solemnly. "And I'm afraid things will take a turn for the worst if we don't do anything about it." "What do you mean Princess?" Twilight asked. Princess Celestia was scanning the group of ponies when she turned to Twilight. "Where is Fluttershy? I would think she would be here since this concerns her the most." Twilight hung her head guiltly, "Sh-she stayed at home with Discord. She thought we could bring the Elements back. Fluttershy knows we can't activate them without all of us so she thought if we could bring them to her, we would all still be able to power them up, and she wouldn't have to leave Discord's side." Twilight answered nervously. "I see." Princess Celestia said blankly. Rarity stepped forward to make it known that she wanted to speak. "Princess Celestia, do you know of any reason why the Elements of Harmony are doing this to Discord? Sure, he can be a pain in the tail sometimes...but even I hate seeing him suffer the way he is." The others mumbled their agreements and nodded their heads. "And poor Fluttershy is an absolute wreck!" Rarity added. Princess Celestia sighed. "The reason the Elements of Harmony are taking Discord's magic is because they feel that he's an an imbalance to life in Equestria." She said. The five friends looked at each other confused, not exactly sure what she meant. "What the hay does that mean!" Rainbow practically shouted. "You're starting to sound like Zecora!" "She doesn't sound anything like Zecora silly! Zecora's voice is much deeper and she always speaks in rhymes and clearly Princess Celestia wasn't rhyming at all and if you thought she was rhyming then you clearly don't know what rhyming is or sounds like..." Pinkie rapidly said. "I..just meant..that she's just as confusing...as Zecora." Rainbow Dash confirmed. Twilight ignored them both and turned her gaze back to Celestia. "What do you mean? He's an imbalance to Equestria?" Celestia took a deep breath. "Discord represents the spirit of chaos and disharmony, and the Elements' job is to keep harmony and peace in Equestria. In which, as you know, Discord is neither of those things." "So what you're saying is..since Discord is not harmonic, the Elements feel that he is imbalancing the harmony and peace within Equestria?" Twilight asked. Celestia nodded. "B-b-but Discord is reformed, and has been for the last four years. Surely he's changed for the better since the last thousand years he'd actually ruled Equestria?" Rarity argued "Yeah, that makes about as much sense as a soup sandwich! Why in tarnation would the Elements do this now and not a thousand years ago!?" Applejack argued. Everypony started to question and argue amongst themselves. Until finally Princess Celestia raised her voice. "Girls!" Everypony froze and looked back at her. Princess Celestia spoke once more. "I don't why the Elements of Harmony are doing this now. There is some magic in this world that even I don't understand." She felt deep regret that she couldn't help more. "What do you suggest we do Princess?" Twilght asked, a rising panic evident in her voice. Celestia frowned further. Nopony was going to like her answer. "I think it would be best...if the Elements of Harmony..were destroyed.. Chapter 13Everypony gasped in shock. Once again, they all started to shout over each other. Princess Celestia raised her hoof to silence them. "I know this is a lot to take in, but I wouldn't suggest it if I didn't believe it was necessary." She said with a hint of annoyance . They were all silent. Letting the realization of the severity of the situation soak into their minds. When nopony said anything for a while, Princess Celestia sighed loudly enough to catch their attention. "Girls, I know you may have a lot of questions, but I'm afraid they are going to have to wait. Time is of the essence right now, and right now, Discord needs these elements more than the tree does. And by needs, I mean he needs them to be destroyed." Celestia stated. "Beg yer pardon Princess, but what if somethin happens to the Tree of Harmony again or to the Everfree Forest in general? How will the tree protect everythin without the Elements?" Applejack inquired. Rarity came up to stand beside Applejack. "Yes, the Tree of Harmony has magic that is fueled by the Elements of Harmony. How will the magic replenish itself if the Elements are no longer in existence?" Rarity pointed out. "I'll cast a spell that will act as a replacement for the magic the Elements would've given off." Princess Celestia said. She used her magic to remove the Elements from their honorary places on the branches of the magical tree. She then levitated each Element to their respective owners. "You must hurry! He's running out of time!." Twilight used her magic to take the Elements out of Celestia's aura and stacked them beside her. She gave Celestia a brisk nod and dashed out of the cavern. Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash, in tow. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy was exhausted. She hadn't gotten much sleep in the three days since Discord had fallen ill. She had been too worried about him to even take proper care of herself, she hadn't eaten in those three days because she rarely left his side to get anything to decently fill her stomach. Her eyes were all red and puffy from crying, and there were dried tear streaks down her face. Discord at this point, was no better, in fact; he was far worse. He was so white and transparent now that you could barley see him, one could so much as breathe on him and he would blow away into the wind. He was never awake anymore, and his breathing had become so slow and weak that Fluttershy had to put her hoof on Discord's chest to feel anything. He was too weak to speak or move, and he didn't even have the strength to swallow when Fluttershy tried to spoon feed him soup. Fluttershy was starting to lose hope. Even if her friends had gotten their hooves on the Elements of Harmony, there was still the endless stream of possibilities that something could go wrong. Like, what if her other friends discovered that they couldn't bring the Elements back to her, and she had to waste more precious time to go and meet them up at the tree? What if, after destroying them, it didn't work and ended up killing Discord in the end? Or if it didn't, would Equestria fall without the most powerful magic know to ponydom? So many unpleasant outcomes poured into Fluttershy's mind like a rushing waterfall that she covered her ears, hoping that by doing so, would keep the thoughts from pending. Now, the most agonizing part of this whole ordeal, was waiting. Chapter 14After what felt like many hours, Fluttershy finally heard a loud knock at the door. She hopped off the bed and trotted down the stairs to the front door. She opened the door and was relieved to see all her friends standing there, with Twilight at the front. It calmed most of Fluttershy's fears to see all six Elements of Harmony stacked neatly as they levitated beside Twilight. Fluttershy put her hoof to her chest and let out a breath of relief. Without needing permission, they hurried inside and turned to face Fluttershy, who shut the door after they all entered. "What did Princess Celestia say? Please tell me it was something good, I don't think I could take any more bad news." Twilight and the rest of the ponies looked down guiltily. Fluttershy's frown deepened. "Oh dear...w-w-what did she tell you?" Fluttershy voice quivered a bit as she tried desperately not to burst into tears again. Twilight's ears flattened as she thought about how to break the news. She took a deep breath and began to explain everything to her, not leaving out a single detail. Fluttershy wiped the tears that were starting to form in her eyes, and looked to her friends. Her eyes were now shinning with a newfound determination as she looked at her best friends. "Let's do it!" She said with confidence. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ They ran up the stairs as fast as their hooves could carry them. Rainbow Dash on the other hoof, was already in the bedroom waiting for them, thanks to her speedy flying. When the rest of them got to said room, they all gathered in a small circle at the base of the bed. Before Fluttershy joined in the circle however, she walked slowly to her husband's bedside. She nuzzled the side of his face and whispered into his ear. "It will be all over soon honey, just hang in there. I love you." She gave him a light kiss on the cheek. Even though he was incoherent, she still hoped he had heard her. She turned back to rejoin the circle. Everypony watched as Fluttershy found her place amongst the newly formed circle and stood tall with newly found confidence. "Is every pony ready?" Twilight said softly as she gazed around the group, in which everypony slowly nodded. Twilight then turned her gaze to Fluttershy alone. "Are you ready?" Fluttershy gulped and let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. She looked to Twilight and nodded. Everypony silently watched as Twilight levitated all six Elements of Harmony and gently placed them on the floor in front of their designated bearers. She placed her own Element in front of herself last. Everypony stood still for a moment. Until Rarity broke the silence. "Is there a certain protocol we have to take? I mean..these are the Elements of Harmony we're dealing with...maybe there's a certain step we have to take?" Rarity asked hesitantly. "That doesn't matter Rarity. You don't need to take steps to destroy somethin'. You just do what you must until you can't use it no more." Applejack said. Rarity felt stupid, just realizing now that her question had an obvious answer. Twilight ignored them and looked down at the Element at her hooves. Even after years of being encased in necklaces and a crown, and defeating numerous villains; including Nightmare Moon, from whom they originally recovered them from, they still shone with as much shininess as they were when Twilight and her friends first rediscovered them after defeating Nightmare Moon. It was one thing to visit the Tree of Harmony and see the Elements resting in it's branches...but having them suddenly gone altogether? That was a new thing in it's entirety... Twilight sighed sadly as she glanced at the star shaped gem at her hoofs.. "Goodbye faithful old friend." She whispered to it, before suddenly bringing her hoof down hard on top of it..breaking it to pieces... Chapter 15There was the sound of glass shattering as Twiight's hoof made contact with the precious gem. The sound echoing off the walls in the silent room. Everypony stared at Twilight, shocked at what she just did. Just then, a light stream of magenta aura rose out of the broken Element and drifted toward where Discord was laying on the bed. Everypony was in awe as they watched the thin stream of light absorb into Discord's body. With new confidence she hadn't had in a while, Fluttershy smashed her butterfly shaped jewel the same way as Twilight had done. She watched as her Element released a thin, soft pink aura and drifted toward her husband before it was absorbed into his still form. Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash followed suit. They all watched as auras the same color as their Elements floated to Discord, and was once again, absorbed into his body. Everypony, including Fluttershy, held their breath in anticipation as they waited to see if it would work. Fluttershy inched closer to the base of the bed. Praying in inside her heart that it wouldn't be too late. Finally, after what felt like forever, Discord's body returned back to it's normal shade of color. He sat up rubbing his eagle claw on his forehead. "Ugh...wh..what happened..." He moaned, without looking up from massaging his head. "DISCORD!!" Discord looked up just in time to see Fluttershy speeding toward him. He gave a muffled "oof" as she barreled him over. He became worried when he heard Fluttershy sobbing into his chest. "Fluttershy what's wrong? Are you alright?" He put his claws under her chin and tilted her head up so she was looking up at him. He frowned when he saw the tears in her beautiful teal orbs that were her eyes. Fluttershy didn't reply, but instead threw her forelegs around Discord's neck and just continued to cry into it. Discord instinctively put his arms around her waist and pulled her tight against him. He gently stroked her mane as he held her against him, something that he knew helped calm her down. She continued to cling to his neck. She started to slow down her cries. Discord smiled, knowing his method was working, His smiled widened when he felt the tears cease to fall. He felt Fluttershy's hold on him lighten. She sniffled once or twice before letting go of his neck completely. Fluttershy looked up at the now yellow and red eyes of her husband. She put a hoof to his cheek and was happy to see him lean into the touch. "I-I'm just s-so happy you're okay Discord." Fluttershy whispered. She leaned up and kissed him on his lips. Pouring out all the love and desperation from the week into it. Discord was taken by surprise at first by the intensity of the kiss, but quickly recovered and just as eagerly kissed her back, digging his talons into her mane as he did so. They pulled apart, and Fluttershy sighed in bliss. She rested her head on his soft chest. She was overcome with happiness to hear the strong beating of his heart and to feel the steady rise and fall of his chest as he breathed. Fluttershy could not be more happier and at peace than she was now. THE END.
Chapter 1The morning sun shone brightly through their bedroom window. Fluttershy's eyes fluttered open as she sat up and got out of bed, giving her legs a good stretch. She looked over her shoulder to see Discord still asleep, his back to her. This wasn't unusual, Discord always got up a little later then she did. Fluttershy always gets up at literally the crack of dawn every day to feed all her animals. She starts off by checking in on her six month old son, Cachi. After she makes sure he is alright, she has a shower, and then goes and gives all her little friends breakfast, by the time she comes back in, she checks in on Cachi again, who is awake by now and brings him down to the kitchen so she can keep an eye on him while making breakfast for the three of them. By the time she finishes setting the table, and the food is almost done, Discord would come down and greet his wife and son each with a kiss on the cheek. Today was no different. However, as Fluttershy was preparing the oatmeal, she thought back to the day little Cachi was born. Even though it was almost a year ago, the memories were still fresh in her mind like it just happened yesterday. She sighed happily as she looked back on the day that changed her life for the better. Fluttershy stared down lovingly at the baby wrapped tightly in a purple blanket that was now her son. He was a perfect hybrid of his parents. He had the same head and body shape as Discord, but in the same shade of yellow as Fluttershy. He had two tiny bumps on his head where his horn and antler would grow, but unlike Discord, where the antler was on the right side of his head and the horn was on his left; their son was the opposite. By the looks of it, his deer antler will grow on the left side of his head while the horn will grow on his right. His eyes were the same size, shape, and color as Fluttershy, and a short black mane that was growing out the same way as Discord's. The baby had a red snake tail like his father, with tiny pink spikes on it and the tiniest tuft of pink curled fur at the end of it. His front legs were that of a lion paw and an eagle claw, and his back legs were yellow hooves that matched Fluttershy's to a T. He had wings exactly like his father's, but lacked his father's snaggletooth and beard. Discord sat quietly next to her on the edge of the bed, his eyes locked on his son. Never in a millennia would he have ever thought of falling in love, much less having children. He and Fluttershy have talked about having foals of their own, but they never thought it would happen because of their species difference. It shouldn't have been that big of a surprise when they found out they were expecting, nothing with Discord made sense! Then again, Discord was part pony, so he supposed it did somewhat. Discord tentatively brought out an eagle claw and very gently stroked his son's cheek. Tears of happiness slowly fell down his face as he continued to stroke his son. "What did I ever do to deserve this Fluttershy?" He whispered to his wife, without taking his eyes off the little bundle in her hooves . "Oh Discord, you deserve happiness as much as the next pony." She whispered back. "Do you want to hold him?" She gently handed him to her husband, who very carefully cradled him in the crook of his eagle arm, and used his fingers from his lion paw to gently move the blanket away from his face. Seeing his child was one thing, but to actually hold the living, breathing, being he had helped create was an entirely new feeling that felt all the more real. Discord's heart swelled with love and protectiveness for the baby he held in his arms. He vowed to himself that he would always keep him safe, even until the end of time itself. "He's perfect...absolutely perfect....just like his mother." he leaned over to give Fluttershy a gentle kiss on the lips. "I thought I would leave the name up to you dear, what should your son's name be?" she asked softly. Discord thought for a moment. He wanted his son to have a name that'll show the peacefulness and goodness in his heart, unlike his. "How about Cachi? with a name like that, nopony can doubt what's in his heart." "That's an interesting name. What does it mean?" Discord looked down at his son, and then back at Fluttershy as he said. "Bringer of peace." ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy was snapped out of her reminising as she heard Discord clonking down the stairs. His cloven hoof and lizard foot making a clonking noise as they came into contact with the wooden floors. He walked into the kitchen and as usual, greeted Cachi and Fluttershy with a kiss on the cheek. "Good morning my love, did you sleep well?" "I always do when you're with me." She winked at him. Discord's fur literally stood on end as he growled playfully. "Oh really? Well, maybe I need to see for myself as proof. I need to have a clear consience that you are getting enough sleep." He purred. Fluttershy gave him a knowing look as she said "Discord! not in front of Cachi" Discord chuckled as he walked over to his son and picked him up out of his high chair. "Oh come on my dear, he's not even one! He doesn't understand what I mean, heck! He can't even say full sentences yet!" He pointed out. Fluttershy sighed and rolled her eyes. "Still, I don't want his first sentence to be anything along the lines of that!" She gave him a glare. It was Discord's turn to roll his eyes. "You worry too much my dear." "And I have good reason to!" Discord chuckled again as he slipped Cachi back in his high chair. "And I love you all the more for it." Fluttershy looked at him and smiled. He returned her smile and floated over to her and gave her a soft peck on the lips. He floated back over to the table and sat on one of the open seats just as Fluttershy placed a glass of chocolate milk and a bowl of Discord's favorite oatmeal in front of him. Which included chocolate syrup, ketchup, and some marshmallows (which sounded and looked really disgusting to Fluttershy, but then again, nothing ever made sense with Discord!) Fluttershy sat in an open chair next to Discord. She was about to take her first bite out of her oatmeal, when she heard a barely audible moan coming from beside her. She turned to see Discord massaging his temple with his fingers. He didn't notice as Fluttershy frowned and looked at him with a concerned expression on her face. "Are you okay Discord?" Fluttershy asked. "What's wrong?' Discord sighed and stopped messaging his temple to look at her. "I'm okay love, I just had a sudden headache come on, that's all." This explanation didn't make Fluttershy feel any better from the growing concern forming in the pit of her stomach. "B-b-but.....you never get headaches. Ever." Discord looked at her. He suddenly started to look really tired, exhausted even. His eyes were sunken in and he had bags under them, which weren't there before. Fluttershy tried to think back to earlier this morning. Maybe she hadn't noticed until now? No! That couldn't be it! He had acted like his normal, chipper, self earlier. Discord wasn't normally a morning person, but he would always get over his crankiness of waking up as soon as he saw the lovely faces of his wife and son. Besides, Discord wasn't being cranky at the moment, he just seemed more tired than usual; but for him to suddenly go from being happy and mischievous, to being quiet and somber...it just didn't sit right with Fluttershy. "Everypony gets headaches now and then, it is nothing to worry about." "Yes, but...." "There's always a first for everything my dear." Discord interrupted as he patted her head. "There's nothing for you to worry about." Fluttershy hid the frown that was forming on her face. But there is. I just know it...
Chapter 2Fluttershy watched as Discord got up from the table and walked toward the swinging door leading into the kitchen. He pushed it open and disappeared inside. Fluttershy let out a small sigh, but soft enough that he wouldn't hear. It was true that Discord was overly confident and self absorbed sometimes, but he was as stubborn as a mule when it came to his flaws. Especially, if some pony were to see. Even though Fluttershy and Discord have been married for over three years, and he trusted her completly, he still tended to try and hide them from her. Although Fluttershy often got annoyed at him for this, she also understood why he did it. The former 'Lord of Chaos' firmly believed that flaws were a sign of one's weakness and limitations. He didn't have anything against flaws or anything, it was just his own opinion. Discord's true nature had been the exact opposite of that. He knew he had changed for the better and wanted everypony to know that, but it would sometimes come to a point when Discord would say it was "putting his guard down." He didn't want to show that he completely abandoned his old ways, but at the same time he wanted everypony to accept him. He liked to think of it as a chocolate milk filled cotton candy cloud. You could have refreshing chocolate milk, and sweet, super fluffy cotton candy, but only together and with the perfect balence of each can you have a perfect chocolate milk cotton candy cloud. Too much or too little of one or the other doesn't taste as good. It's the best of both worlds, so to speak. As Fluttershy sat there, continuing to think about this, she heard a loud clatter coming from the kitchen that snapped her out of her thoughts. It sounded like some of her pots and pans fell to the floor. Thinking it was Angel scrounging around looking for food. "Now Angel, I've told you plenty of times before that if you want a snack you have to ask me politely first, not make a loud mess in my kitchen." She said without getting up from the table. Hearing his name, Angel hopped out from the opposite side of the room and tilted his head, confused at what his owner just said. Fluttershy gave a small frown when she noticed Angel standing on the other side of the room giving her a confused look. Fluttershy became even more puzzled. She said, "b-but..if you didn't make that noise..then..who...?" She trailed off for a second, suddenly realizing who it could most likely be. "Discord?" She called out nervously. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ After a few moments of unpleasant silence, Fluttershy flew into the the kitchen. Discord was collapsed on the kitchen floor. Fluttershy gasped and immediately landed beside him. "Discord!" He was unconscious, Fluttershy put her ear to his chest, she was relieved to hear his heart beating and to see his chest steadily rising and falling with each breath. "Oh thank goodness." Fluttershy breathed in relief. She gently nuzzled her head against his cheek, "Discord?" She said gently. He groaned and opened his eyes. "Flu-Fluttershy? What happened?" He slowly stood up to all fours. "I don't know, I was just sitting at the table and heard a loud noise in the kitchen. I thought it was Angel Bunny looking for a snack, but he was all the way across the other side of the room." She told him. "Are you okay?" She said as she put a hoof on his shoulder. "Yes, I-I think so." He said. Fluttershy put her hoof down and looked at him with concern. "Y-you mean, you don't remember what happened?" "No, not really." Discord slowly got up to stand on two feet. Fluttershy hovered next to him to help him if he needed it. "Are you sure you're alright honey?" She asked one more time. Discord slowly nodded in response. "I'm fine darling, really." He said kind of tiredly. Fluttershy wasn't entirely convinced, but she didn't say anything. "Discord, I..I really think you should go back upstairs and lay down for a little bit." Fluttershy said nicely. "Nonsense, I'm perfectly fine my love. I just had a stumble, nothing more." He gripped the edge of a nearby counter as he said this, in which Fluttershy took notice of. It's almost like...he's using it to...to keep his balance... Fluttershy shook that last thought from her head, now she knew she was overthinking the situation too much. Discord was right, she does worry too much! At the same time however, something was kicking her inside, telling her that she had every right to worry... She ignored the feeling and looked up at her husband, who still had his lion paw gripped to the counter. Fluttershy noticed that Discord hung his head down and had his eyes tightly shut, and his face was contorted in pain. Another headache perhaps...? Fluttershy could tell he was trying to hide this from her. She sighed, and said nicely but sternly, "Honey, I really think you should go lie down, at least for a little while. Pretty please?" She said that last part with her signature move, which was with half of her face hiding behind her mane. For she knew how it affected Discord, he always found it so adorable and would always give in to whatever she wanted. "Oh sweetheart, you know I can't resist that cute, innocent face! Sweet Celestia! Look what you've done to me! The Lord of Chaos has become the Lord of Softies!" Fluttershy smiled as she thought back on that memory. Even after all these years, he would still fall in her trap of submission and admitting defeat. "Come on honey, go upstairs and I'll meet you there as soon as I finish cleaning the dishes, no doubt your bowl of oatmeal will need some extra scrubbing!" She giggled and flew up to Discord and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Go on my love, I'll be right there." Fluttershy said kindly. "Alright." Discord mumbled reluctantly, and headed for the stairs leading to their bedroom. "I'll be up there in a minute my love." She called softly.
Chapter 3As promised, Fluttershy finished cleaning from breakfast and flew upstairs, with Cachi in her arms. She opened the door leading to their bedroom and quietly walked inside. She used her back hoof to gently shut the door behind her, and walked over to where Discord lay on his side of the bed. Discord was lying under the covers as he laid on his back, staring up at the ceiling. He turned his head to look at Fluttershy as she was approaching. "Hey honey, how are you feeling?" she said gently as she put a hoof to his forehead. She was surprised to feel that he felt a bit warm. She only meant for it to be a comforting gesture, not to check for a fever. However, she didn't dawn on it too much, she automatically assumed it was just because that Discord was under the covers. Cachi was struggling in Fluttershy's grip, trying to reach for his father. Before Fluttershy could attempt to hold him out for Discord to take, he flashed out of Fluttershy's grip, and flashed onto Discord's chest. He was slightly startled by his son's random appearance so close to his face, but chuckled nonetheless. He started to carefully throw him a little ways into the air, making sure to always catch him with his paw and claw. His son laughing and smiling widely as he did so. "I'm fine my love, maybe a little tired, but that's all. I'm only doing this because you insisted." He stopped throwing Cachi. "Well, I want you to try and go back to sleep for a little bit and see if that helps. Did you not sleep well last night? Did Cachi wake you up? If so, you could've gotten me..." Discord cut her off. "No, he didn't wake me, and even if he did, I wouldn't have woken you. You already do so much for this little guy, and at the same time, put up with me! You need your sleep." He told her. Fluttershy was about to say something else, but just as she opened her mouth to speak, Discord gave a great yawn. Wide enough to see all of his sharp teeth. Fluttershy took her son from Discord. "Alright mister! You are going to bed! No excuses!" Fluttershy said nicely, but firmly. She was putting her hoof down this time. Discord gave her an answering yawn, which put more truth to Fluttershy's statement. "Alright, if you insist. Only for a few minutes though." He reluctantly answered. "I will let you sleep however long you need it." She said matter-of-factly. Discord turned over on his side, with is back to her. Fluttershy leaned over and gave him a kiss on his cheek. "Get some rest love." She whispered. She quietly flew out of the room with Cachi in her arms. She quietly closed the door behind her so as not to disturb Discord. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy was growing more worried as each hour passed. Discord usually never slept this long. It was early morning when she sent him to get more rest, and now the day was almost over. The sun was setting behind the distant hillsides of Equestria, the earliest specks of Luna's stars just starting to appear in the sky. Fluttershy wouldn't have been as worried if he woke up in spurts. He didn't wake up for lunch or dinner, or even when Cachi cried, and that sound always woke him up. Eventually, it was time to put Cachi down for the night. He was sound asleep before his head even hit the blanket that was lining the crib. Fluttershy smiled down at him and gave him a kiss on his forehead before she turned and closed the door a crack. Fluttershy walked to the bedroom where she and Discord slept, and without a sound, flew inside. It was completely dark outside by this time, with the moon already high in the sky. Moonlight shone through the window, turning everything it touched to a ghastly white. Fluttershy walked up to Discord's side. He looked pale in the moonlight, but what was odd to her was that it wasn't just his face, it was his whole body. She looked at everything not covered with the blankets. His jet black mane was turning a grayish color, and the fur on his lion paw seemed to be turning a very very light yellow, a little lighter than Fluttershy's coat. Fluttershy knew she was overthinking the situation way too much, and she mentally scolded herself for it. But at the same time, after everything that has happened today, she didn't want to take a chance. A small part of her was telling her that this was more complicated than just moonlight. Even with the moonlight shinning on him, it just seemed unnatural to Fluttershy. It was true that the moon gave off enough light to navigate through the dark room, but at the same time, it wasn't big or bright enough to give him that effect. Even if it was, the bed wasn't close enough to the window anyway. Fluttershy climbed onto her side of the bed, she leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before turning over and snuggling deeper into the covers. She drifted off to a dreamless sleep.
Chapter 4Fluttershy's eyes fluttered open as the light of day hit her face. She yawned and sat up in bed, raising her forelegs in a stretch. As she did, her eyes drifted over to the still sleeping form of Discord. Still in the same position he was in the night before, with his back to her. As she slid off the bed to begin her day, she heard a ruffle of the sheets and a long drawn out sigh, which almost sounded content. Fluttershy took this as a good sign. "Honey, are you awake?" She turned to look over her shoulder "How are you feeling? Any better?" She asked as she walked over to his bedside. However, what she saw made her heart drop. There was no moonlight now to convince her otherwise, his mane was completely gray, along with his goatee, his bushy eyebrows, and probably the tuft of his tail. His lion paw was still that very very light yellow as the night before. His eagle claw was the same shade of light yellow as his lion paw. The fur that made up his head and neck was a lighter shade of gray, not quite white yet. Fluttershy realized his mane was now the same shade of gray his head used to be, and his once blue horn on his head was now as white as his deer antler. Fluttershy couldn't hold back the small gasp that escaped her lips as Discord opened his eyes. That concerned Fluttershy the most. His once mesmerizing red and yellow pupils where now a foggy white. It reminded Fluttershy of what everyponys eyes looked like when Tirek..stole all their..magic... Oh no. Discord saw the fear in her eyes. "What's wrong Fluttershy?" Pure exhaustion evident in his voice. He reached his eagle claw out to her, only for her to back away from him, looking absolutely terrified. Confusion and hurt were in Discord's eyes as he looked at his wife. Fluttershy saw this and immediately felt bad. She didn't mean to step away from him, it was the shock that scared her. Poor Discord had probably thought she was afraid of him. Fluttershy shook her head to clear it and trotted back over to Discord. "I'm sorry honey, I didn't mean to back up from you like that." She said as she nuzzled his cheek with her own. Discord giving off a throaty sounding purr as she did. "Forgive me love?" "Of course my love." He gave her a quick gentle kiss on the lips. "But why did you..?" "I was just really startled." She sighed. "Do you remember how my eyes were white and foggy after Tirek took all my wing power?" Discord shamefully lowered his head. "How could I forget?" He said with shame. "That wouldn't have happened if I didn't give you to him." He said with a low growl. "But what does that have to do with...?" He was cut off by a cry from the other room. Fluttershy gave an apologetic sigh, but before she left to tend to Cachi she turned back to Discord, who was trying desperately to keep his eyes open. "No no honey, don't fight it." She stroked his cheek gently, his eagle claw laying on top of the hoof on his cheek. "You need to succumb to the demands your body needs to recover." She was pleased to see that he let his eyes close and his claw slowly slid down from her outstretched hoof until it fell gently to his lap. She chuckled slightly and used her teeth to pull the covers up closer to him. She gave him a kiss on his forehead, but reeled back in surprise when her lips touched the burning hot skin. Fluttershy had hidden her anxiety for the sake of Discord, but she couldn't hide it any longer. Luckily, Discord was asleep, so he couldn't see the panic that was rapidly forming on her face. She turned and left the room quickly. She entered her son's room and flew over to the crib. "I'm sorry sweetie." She apologized sweetly to her son as she picked him up. "I think something is really wrong with daddy." Cachi didn't seem to be listening to her as he flapped his tiny wings and glided out of Fluttershy's grasp. Little arms outstretched, he laughed happily as he flapped out of the room. Fluttershy chuckled as she shook her head and flew off after her son. His laughter echoed of the walls of the castle.
Chapter 6Author's Note Hey guys! As always please leave feedback and let me know of any grammar mistakes. Chapter 6 Fluttershy flew with as much speed she could muster trying to get to Twilght's castle, all the while carrying a struggling Cachi. When she finally landed in front of Twilight's castle, she paused to catch her breath before knocking on the shiny crystal doors. After a short minute, the door opened. "Oh, hi Fluttershy, what brings you he-" Fluttershy thrust her son into Twilight's hooves before she could finish what she was saying. Before Twilight could ask, Fluttershy answered her unanswered question. "I need you to watch Cachi for me Twilight." She then hid behind her mane. "I..I mean, if you want to..." She mumbled, but loud enough to hear. "Well, of course I will Fluttershy! But what's..?" "Something's come up. I can't explain now, it's too long of a story. I don't know how long I'll need you to watch him, I'll come by and get him when things calm down a little bit and l can figure out what is going on. I trust you the most with Cachi. Not that I don't trust the others...which I do of course...you're really smart and know everything about everything...not that the others aren't smart...which they are but...I um...oh dear." Fluttershy spoke with less and less confidence than when she started. Twilight giggled a little, despite the seriousness of the situation. "I get it Fluttershy. Is there anything else I could do to help?" She asked sincerely. "You are helping enough as it is. Thanks Twilight." Fluttershy pulled her friend into a hug. After they pulled apart from the short embrace, Fluttershy turned and gave her son a quick kiss on the cheek. "I'll be back soon, and be good for Auntie Twilight. I love you." Fluttershy turned back to Twilight. "Please let me know if he causes you any trouble." "Oh please, he's fine. Sure, he's a bit of a handful, but is that really a surprise considering Discord is the father?" Twilight smiled. They both laughed, and at last, Fluttershy took off to the sky. She looked behind her one more time to find Twilight smiling and waving at her from below. Eventually, Twilight and Cachi disappeared from view as Fluttershy flew higher and higher towards where Rainbow Dash had her home on the clouds. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy flew to the house in the clouds that was Rainbow Dash's. The rainbows that were decorated around her home shone more brightly than ever. She hovered in front of the door, the thin air making it harder to catch her breath, especially after her speedy flight from Twilight's. When she got to the point where she could breathe comfortably she rang the doorbell. Which of course, was the "Daring Do" theme song, which was just recently made into a movie. Rainbow Dash came to the door quicker than Twilight did. Before Rainbow even opened the door all the way, Fluttershy started rapidly explaining what she needed her to do. "Dash-you're-fast-I-need-you-to-fly-to-Zecora's-as-fast-as-you-can-and-tell-her-to-come-to-my-home-it's-an-emergency!" Fluttershy was panting after she said this. "Hello to you too." Rainbow Dash said bluntly. "Oh..I'm sorry..how rude of me...um...hello Rainbow." Fluttershy said shyly. Rainbow smirked and chuckled slightly. "I was only teasing Flutters. Now, can you calmly explain to me what's going on...? Huh, never thought I would ever say that to you." She shrugged. So once again, Fluttershy repeated what she had said earlier, but at her normal softer pace. After she finished, Rainbow Dash saluted her and said, "I'm on it!" and took off. Her iconic rainbow trail highlighting her path behind her. The gust of wind from her sudden take off blew her mane and whipped her face, forcing her to tightly shut her eyes. As soon as the wind had ceased and she was able to open her eyes again, she sped off towards the castle where a bedridden Discord was waiting.
Chapter 7Fluttershy anxiously paced around her bedroom as she waited for Zecora's arrival. Every so often looking up from her pacing to look back at Discord. As each minute on the clock past, she was becoming more and more desperate. Finally, after what felt like hours, there was a knock on the door. Fluttershy sighed in relief and hurried downstairs. She opened the door to see Rainbow Dash with an out of breath Zecora, who had a cartful of potions and healing herbs harnessed to her back. "I heard what was the matter, no time for idle chatter!" She said as she trotted in. "Thank you so much for coming on such short notice Zecora." Fluttershy said as she closed the door after Rainbow and Zecora had entered. "You are most welcome, dear Fluttershy. Now tell me, can you specify?" "Well I..I can certainly try." Fluttershy put her hoof to her chin as she thought. "He..he started to suddenly go downhill yesterday. He was more tired than usual, but I didn't think anything of it at first. He complained of headaches, and that really worried me. Discord has never gotten a headache in his life and just shrugged it off like it was nothing! He also slept for eight hours yesterday, which is highly unusual for anypony." She told her as much as she possibly could. "And what of today? Do those symptoms still stay?" "I..I think so. He's so weak right now he can't tell me how he feels. He hasn't complained of headaches yet, but other than that, the rest of the symptoms from yesterday still stands. Although, they are getting a lot worse." Zecora's ears perked up when she said that last part. "Oh? And how is this so?" She tilted her head, waiting for Fluttershy's answer. "It...it's hard to explain. It might be easier if you see for yourself." She pointed her hoof towards their room. "He's upstairs." Zecora nodded and undid the latch on the harness that was around her back, freeing herself of the extra weight she was pulling. With the cart no longer attached to her, she started for the stairs when Rainbow stopped her. "Wait, why can't Discord just go to a hospital or somethin if he's as sick as you say? Wouldn't it be easier than having to go through all this trouble?" Rainbow Dash didn't have to elaborate, everypony knew what she meant. Zecora saved Fluttershy the trouble of answering and replied for her. "Discord has many different physical features. The doctors and nurses are only familiar with one kind of creature. Since each part of him has a different need, the doctors won't know how to proceed." Zecora explained. "So what you're saying is...is that because he's made up of different species, the doctors wouldn't know the specific medical needs of each animal he's made up of? Well then why don't we just take him to a vet? They know all sorts of different animals right?" Rainbow Dash argued. Zecora shook her head. "While is is true that they do, they won't know how each treatment will effect him. With such different limbs, they wouldn't want to risk his chances being slim." "Huh?" Rainbow Dash said with puzzled look on her face. Fluttershy walked over to Zecora's side. "I think what she's saying is that even though they're familiar with the different body types of different animals, they only know each species by itself. With so many different animal parts on one being, they don't know if the medical treatment required for that certain part will end of killing him. Since all the different parts of different species on him work well and compromise with his body, they don't want to chance breaking up that compromise if they inject him with five different medical treatments. Right Zecora?" She turned her head to look at the zebra. "Indeed" She nodded simply. "Oh." Rainbow Dash said blankly. "I guess that makes sense..sorta." ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ When the trio entered the bedroom, as soon as they entered the room, everypony fell into an eerie and shocked silence at seeing Discord's condition. Zecora walked up to where Discord lay and at first simply started to look him over. Then she put an ear to his chest to hear him breathe. It was ragged and shallow, and she could tell that each intake of breath was a struggle for him. Fluttershy waited with bated breath as she watched Zecora examining her husband. She noticed the slight frown that was on the zebra's face, which concerned her all the more. If Zecora; the one who knew everything about magical ailments and potions was worried, then it must be really bad. Fluttershy took a deep breath and walked up to Zecora, who was still at Discord's bedside. Not sure if she was ready or not to hear what she had to say.
Chapter 8Zecora turned around as Fluttershy approached. The look in the pegasus' eyes made what Zecora had to tell her all the more heartbreaking. "Did you figure out what's wrong with him?" Fluttershy whispered, as she glanced at Discord. Her eyes misting with tears as she looked hopefully at Zecora. Zecora sighed, "Indeed I have, but what I have to say is nothing to laugh" She straightened up tall to show the importance and the seriousness of the situation. Fluttershy got the message of Zecora's position. She gulped, bracing herself for the worst. "I am afraid the news is tragic, for he is starting to lose his chaos magic." Fluttershy gasped when Zecora said that. A part of her was expecting that to be the case when she took note that Discord was only getting worse instead of better. However, at the same time, she also was not expecting it. She started to softly cry "How is that possible? Do you have any idea on what could've caused this?" Fluttershy looked at Zecora with so much hope shining in her eyes right then, that it broke her heart further to tell the little pegasus that this was one thing which her potions couldn't fix. Zecora sighed, and the way she did gave Fluttershy her answer. "His suffering, I wish I could undo. But, I think I have something that might be able to give you a clue." She walked away from Fluttershy and headed toward the stairs. Fluttershy glanced up, her eyes held the faintest spark of hope within their depths. She watched as Zecora descended down the stairs. She turned to look at her husband, just looking at him when he's like this brought tears to her eyes, she walked up to his side and gently put a hoof on his lion paw. It felt colder than before "It..it'll be okay honey...Zecora's trying to help..to...to help you feel better.." Each word becoming softer and softer as she let out quiet cries. She nuzzled her head under his chin, resting her head on his neck as she gave out more quiet sobs. Her ear twitched when she heard Zecora's hoof steps coming back up the stairs. She sighed and pulled her head away from where it was laying on Discord's neck. She gave him a light kiss on his cheek, and then turned to Zecora, who was approaching carrying a vial of white liquid in her mouth. Fluttershy stared at it quizzically with an eyebrow raised. The liquid was the same color and consitency as milk, and it also reminded Fluttershy of the potion Twilight drank when she was trying to figure out why the Everfree Forest was invading, when she first became a princess. Zecora stopped in front of Fluttershy and gently put the vial on the ground. She looked up at Fluttershy and said, "This potion will tell you of the future, present, or past. It may show you why his magic is disappearing so fast." Fluttershy looked at the potion on the ground skeptically, then back at Discord, who hadn't woken up from his potentially fatal slumber. She looked back at Zecora. "How does it work?" She said full of determination. Zecora smiled at her, proud of the determination the young, timid pegasus was showing. "You simply think about what you wish to see, as long as it's a question regarding those three. It cannot answer specific questions, so wishing it to show you something is my suggestion." She said. Fluttershy looked down at the bottle one last time before picking it up and holding it in her hoof. She closed her eyes to think of a way to ask her question, without a question. Show me what is taking away Discord's magic. She opened her eyes and popped the lid off with her teeth. She took a decent sip of the potion. When she was done, she licked her lips, evaluating the taste. Fluttershy waited a few minutes for the potion to take effect. After about five minutes, she opened her mouth to tell Zecora that she had accidentally given her the wrong potion. When Fluttershy opened her mouth to say just that, her eyes suddenly widened and turned completely white as the potion started to work... Fluttershy was in the Everfree Forest. The place that seemed so unnatural to ponykind. Where the plants grow, animals care for themselves, and the clouds move, all on their own! Not only that, it was also filled with strange and terrifying creatures that nopony wanted to face, especially Fluttershy. The scene shifted, and she found herself in a cave inside of a gorge. The cave was filled with a bright white light that was even brighter than Celestia's sun. When the light softened enough, she saw a tall, magnificent tree made purely out of crystal. It was absolutely breathtaking. It was then she saw the symbols intricately carved into the trunk. On the bottom was a blazing sun. Above it, was a crescent moon. Finally, at the top of the tree was a shimmering star... Suddenly, a light purple aura trail was seeping into the crystal tree. The small trail was coming from somewhere outside of the cave. The scene changed again. This time, Fluttershy saw Discord, lying in bed and hardly moving except for the small rising and falling of his chest. The transparency of his body was becoming dimmer and dimmer. There was a light purple aura surrounding him. It left his body in the form of a trail and was leading outside. The scene shifted one last time to reveal the crystal tree once more. The purple aura trail split and went to six different places on the tree that seemed to represent the tops of the branches. One trail was leading into one branch that had a purple diamond shaped stone. Three more trails were leading into an apple, a lightening bolt, and balloon shaped stones. And the last two were leading into a butterfly and a star shaped stone... Fluttershy blinked the white away as the vision ended. She rubbed her eyes to rid of the blurriness. She looked at Zecora, who was calmly sitting on her haunches. There was no emotion on the zebra's face as she looked up at the pegasus. "Well? Did you find anything of use? Or what has caused his magic to diffuse?" Fluttershy didn't know what to say, she was so shocked on what she just found out. Gathering her thoughts together, she gulped and looked at Zecora. "Y-yes...I-I think the Elements of Harmony are causing this..."
Chapter 10"I..I can't leave him. The rest of you have to go find the Elements...I'm staying here..." Fluttershy looked around the room, which was filled with an awkward silence. Then everypony started speaking at once. "Fluttershy you can't! We need you! We need all of us.." Twilight indicated to the rest of the Mane six, "To make the Elements work!" "Darling, you can't be serious!" "Sugarcube, you're crazier than a filly on a sugar high!" "Yeah! That's super crazy! Fluttershy's not on a sugar high and when you're on a sugar high you have so much energy you just keep going on and on and on and you talk so much it drives ponies insane which I can't imagine why I love to talk I mean who doesn't like to talk..." Pinkie droned on in her usual excited tone. Everypony, including Zecora, stared at the bouncing pink mare strangely with raised eyebrows. "Pinkie Pie, you are so random." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. Zecora walked up to Fluttershy and put a comforting hoof on her shoulder. "What you're friends are saying is true, this is something you need to do." She said sympathetically. Fluttershy looked away from her, "But, what if I go and he.." she didn't have to finish. "He'll be all alone and…" Her voice started to tremble and she couldn't continue. "We understand Fluttershy but...we also won't figure out how to stop the Elements from taking Discord's magic if we're not all there." Twilight reasoned. Twilight approached Fluttershy and lay a comforting hoof on top of hers. "If you don't come with us Fluttershy, we won't be able to power up the Elements, and if we can't power up the Elements..then we won't be able to stop Discord from fading." She murmured. Fluttershy gasped and covered her mouth with her hoof. She shut her eyes as she felt the impending tears fall down her cheeks once again. Then, Fluttershy got an idea that will allow her to do both. "How about you bring the Elements here!? That way, I can still be with Discord and be with the Elements at the same time! Please Twilight?" Fluttershy gave her the biggest puppy eyes ever. Twilight shook her head sadly. "We can't Fluttershy. We need the tree to-" "No we don't, remember back when the Everfree Forest was invading? And you took one of Zecora's potions to find out why it was happening? You said you saw a flashback of when Princess Celestia and Princess Luna first discovered the Tree of Harmony. Princess Celestia mentioned something about the magic the tree possessed, do you remember what she said?" In a sudden rush, everything was all coming back to Twilight. She recalled Princess Celestia's words... 'Even without these Elements, the Tree of Harmony will possess a powerful magic. As long as that magic remains, it will continue to control and contain all that grows here.' She shook her head to be rid of the memory and looked at Fluttershy. "Yes, I suppose that's true. But we had to give the Elements back to stop the Everfree Forest from invading, remember? What if we take them from the tree again and something a lot worse than roots happens?" She pointed out. "Now that I'm thinking about it Twilight, we had to give them back to the Tree of Harmony because the magic to keep it alive was dying. After we returned them, everything went back to normal and the Elements had to replenish all the magic that the tree had lost. It's been three years now since that incident happened. I for one, do believe that it has had plenty of time to rejuvenate itself. It can't hurt to take them away for at least a little while. We'll put them back as soon as we're done." Rarity said. "I..don't know..." Twilight said, hesitantly biting her lip. "Rarity sure does make a valid point Twi. Surely it ain't worth fussin about?" Applejack spoke out. "Yeah! And besides, Discord's meanie roots are what crashed the party remember?" Pinkie said. "Pinkie, we weren't having a party when Discord's roots sprouted." Reminded Rainbow Dash. "Exactly! Because he crashed it!" Rainbow facehoofed when she said that. Everypony looked to Twilght, waiting for an answer. Twilight grunted "Ugh! Fine! But we have to hurry!" Fluttershy had tears of joy in her eyes. "Oh thank you Twilight!" She flew off the bed and gave her the biggest hug. "Thank you! Thank you so much! You have no idea how much this means to me!" Fluttershy cried against her shoulder. Twilight hugged her back just as tightly. "Alright, if we're going to do this, let's do it!" Twilight stomped her hoof in determination.
Chapter 11Author's Note Hey guys, sorry this chapter took a little longer. I'm going to try and do better about posting a new chapter a day or two! As always, please like and comment, and please tell me of any grammar mistakes should you spot them. THANKS!!! Chapter 11 Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack were walking in the Everfree Forest, heading towards the Castle of the Two Sisters, where the Tree of Harmony had planted itself inside a gorge. Twilight wrote to Princess Celestia before they started their journey, to see if she could tell them anything useful. Princess Celestia wrote back and said that she would meet them at the Tree of Harmony. Everypony was hopeful at this, knowing that the Princess was going to meet them there meant that she had some value information about the subject. However, the traveling ponies didn't know if it was good or bad, but it was news nevertheless, so it would be helpful either way. "What do you think Princess Celestia will say y'all?" Applejack started the conversation. "I don't know Applejack, but I do hope it's insightful." Rarity said. "Any information she has will be insightful, Rarity. Even if it's good or bad." Twilight told her. "I'm kinda hoping theres going to be some horrible monster behind all this!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "You know this is the Elements doing, right?" Twilight inquired. "Yeah. But I meant that maybe there is some kind of monster making the Elements do this! Because that would be totally awesome!" Rainbow cleared up. "No silly! The Elements are making themselves do it! Wait, do what again?" Pinkie cocked her head in confusion. Twilight sighed and rolled her eyes. "Typical Pinkie." _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy sat at Discord's bedside. Her friends left a little more than an hour ago to get to the Tree of Harmony. She glanced at Zecora who was about to go out the door that led out of the bedroom to leave, seeing as her work was done. Fluttershy stopped her just as her tail was disappearing behind the door. "Is there anything else I can do for him while I wait for the girls to bring back the Elements?" Fluttershy asked. Zecora looked back at her. "There is nothing you or I can do, but for now, I must bid you adieu. I have so much work that it's practically driving me berserk!" Zecora laughed. "Oh my...I'm so sorry! How selfish of me...keeping you here by chatting with you and not even thinking about you or how you might have other things to do..." Zecora raised her hoof to stop Fluttershy from continuing. "That's quite alright my dear. I think the best thing you can do for him is to just be near." She told her with a soft smile. "Of course." Fluttershy sniffed. "Thank you so much again for coming." Zecora smiled. "I am happy to help. If you need me, just give a yelp!" She chuckled. She turned and disappeared down the stairs. Fluttershy heard her close the door behind her as she left. It was only the two of them once again. That was short lived though, as Angel Bunny entered the bedroom and started to thump his foot on the ground annoyingly. His little paws folded across his chest as he glared at Flutttershy. Fluttershy sighed and got off the bed. "I'm sorry Angel, there has been so much going on earlier that I completely forgot about your lunch. I'll make your special recipe to make it up too you. I even have the cherry for the top this time!" Fluttershy tried to say cheerfully. She gave Discord a quick kiss on the forehead and headed towards the door. Angel gave a 'hmph' sound, before finally following Fluttershy out.
Chapter 12Twilight and the others entered the glowing cavern where the Tree of Harmony was waiting, and hopefully, Princess Celestia as well. The five walked in with bated breath as they gazed in awe at the vibrant crystal tree that stood tall before them, and standing at the base of the tree was Princess Celestia. Her flowing mane gently billowing beside her. "I'm glad you all are here. There is a matter of great importance that I wish to discuss with you." She said seriously. Her face was set stiff with much seriousness and determination. "Do ya' know what this is all about, Princess?" Applejack questioned. "Unfortunately, I do." Princess Celestia said solemnly. "And I'm afraid things will take a turn for the worst if we don't do anything about it." "What do you mean Princess?" Twilight asked. Princess Celestia was scanning the group of ponies when she turned to Twilight. "Where is Fluttershy? I would think she would be here since this concerns her the most." Twilight hung her head guiltly, "Sh-she stayed at home with Discord. She thought we could bring the Elements back. Fluttershy knows we can't activate them without all of us so she thought if we could bring them to her, we would all still be able to power them up, and she wouldn't have to leave Discord's side." Twilight answered nervously. "I see." Princess Celestia said blankly. Rarity stepped forward to make it known that she wanted to speak. "Princess Celestia, do you know of any reason why the Elements of Harmony are doing this to Discord? Sure, he can be a pain in the tail sometimes...but even I hate seeing him suffer the way he is." The others mumbled their agreements and nodded their heads. "And poor Fluttershy is an absolute wreck!" Rarity added. Princess Celestia sighed. "The reason the Elements of Harmony are taking Discord's magic is because they feel that he's an an imbalance to life in Equestria." She said. The five friends looked at each other confused, not exactly sure what she meant. "What the hay does that mean!" Rainbow practically shouted. "You're starting to sound like Zecora!" "She doesn't sound anything like Zecora silly! Zecora's voice is much deeper and she always speaks in rhymes and clearly Princess Celestia wasn't rhyming at all and if you thought she was rhyming then you clearly don't know what rhyming is or sounds like..." Pinkie rapidly said. "I..just meant..that she's just as confusing...as Zecora." Rainbow Dash confirmed. Twilight ignored them both and turned her gaze back to Celestia. "What do you mean? He's an imbalance to Equestria?" Celestia took a deep breath. "Discord represents the spirit of chaos and disharmony, and the Elements' job is to keep harmony and peace in Equestria. In which, as you know, Discord is neither of those things." "So what you're saying is..since Discord is not harmonic, the Elements feel that he is imbalancing the harmony and peace within Equestria?" Twilight asked. Celestia nodded. "B-b-but Discord is reformed, and has been for the last four years. Surely he's changed for the better since the last thousand years he'd actually ruled Equestria?" Rarity argued "Yeah, that makes about as much sense as a soup sandwich! Why in tarnation would the Elements do this now and not a thousand years ago!?" Applejack argued. Everypony started to question and argue amongst themselves. Until finally Princess Celestia raised her voice. "Girls!" Everypony froze and looked back at her. Princess Celestia spoke once more. "I don't why the Elements of Harmony are doing this now. There is some magic in this world that even I don't understand." She felt deep regret that she couldn't help more. "What do you suggest we do Princess?" Twilght asked, a rising panic evident in her voice. Celestia frowned further. Nopony was going to like her answer. "I think it would be best...if the Elements of Harmony..were destroyed..
Chapter 13Everypony gasped in shock. Once again, they all started to shout over each other. Princess Celestia raised her hoof to silence them. "I know this is a lot to take in, but I wouldn't suggest it if I didn't believe it was necessary." She said with a hint of annoyance . They were all silent. Letting the realization of the severity of the situation soak into their minds. When nopony said anything for a while, Princess Celestia sighed loudly enough to catch their attention. "Girls, I know you may have a lot of questions, but I'm afraid they are going to have to wait. Time is of the essence right now, and right now, Discord needs these elements more than the tree does. And by needs, I mean he needs them to be destroyed." Celestia stated. "Beg yer pardon Princess, but what if somethin happens to the Tree of Harmony again or to the Everfree Forest in general? How will the tree protect everythin without the Elements?" Applejack inquired. Rarity came up to stand beside Applejack. "Yes, the Tree of Harmony has magic that is fueled by the Elements of Harmony. How will the magic replenish itself if the Elements are no longer in existence?" Rarity pointed out. "I'll cast a spell that will act as a replacement for the magic the Elements would've given off." Princess Celestia said. She used her magic to remove the Elements from their honorary places on the branches of the magical tree. She then levitated each Element to their respective owners. "You must hurry! He's running out of time!." Twilight used her magic to take the Elements out of Celestia's aura and stacked them beside her. She gave Celestia a brisk nod and dashed out of the cavern. Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash, in tow. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fluttershy was exhausted. She hadn't gotten much sleep in the three days since Discord had fallen ill. She had been too worried about him to even take proper care of herself, she hadn't eaten in those three days because she rarely left his side to get anything to decently fill her stomach. Her eyes were all red and puffy from crying, and there were dried tear streaks down her face. Discord at this point, was no better, in fact; he was far worse. He was so white and transparent now that you could barley see him, one could so much as breathe on him and he would blow away into the wind. He was never awake anymore, and his breathing had become so slow and weak that Fluttershy had to put her hoof on Discord's chest to feel anything. He was too weak to speak or move, and he didn't even have the strength to swallow when Fluttershy tried to spoon feed him soup. Fluttershy was starting to lose hope. Even if her friends had gotten their hooves on the Elements of Harmony, there was still the endless stream of possibilities that something could go wrong. Like, what if her other friends discovered that they couldn't bring the Elements back to her, and she had to waste more precious time to go and meet them up at the tree? What if, after destroying them, it didn't work and ended up killing Discord in the end? Or if it didn't, would Equestria fall without the most powerful magic know to ponydom? So many unpleasant outcomes poured into Fluttershy's mind like a rushing waterfall that she covered her ears, hoping that by doing so, would keep the thoughts from pending. Now, the most agonizing part of this whole ordeal, was waiting.
Chapter 14After what felt like many hours, Fluttershy finally heard a loud knock at the door. She hopped off the bed and trotted down the stairs to the front door. She opened the door and was relieved to see all her friends standing there, with Twilight at the front. It calmed most of Fluttershy's fears to see all six Elements of Harmony stacked neatly as they levitated beside Twilight. Fluttershy put her hoof to her chest and let out a breath of relief. Without needing permission, they hurried inside and turned to face Fluttershy, who shut the door after they all entered. "What did Princess Celestia say? Please tell me it was something good, I don't think I could take any more bad news." Twilight and the rest of the ponies looked down guiltily. Fluttershy's frown deepened. "Oh dear...w-w-what did she tell you?" Fluttershy voice quivered a bit as she tried desperately not to burst into tears again. Twilight's ears flattened as she thought about how to break the news. She took a deep breath and began to explain everything to her, not leaving out a single detail. Fluttershy wiped the tears that were starting to form in her eyes, and looked to her friends. Her eyes were now shinning with a newfound determination as she looked at her best friends. "Let's do it!" She said with confidence. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ They ran up the stairs as fast as their hooves could carry them. Rainbow Dash on the other hoof, was already in the bedroom waiting for them, thanks to her speedy flying. When the rest of them got to said room, they all gathered in a small circle at the base of the bed. Before Fluttershy joined in the circle however, she walked slowly to her husband's bedside. She nuzzled the side of his face and whispered into his ear. "It will be all over soon honey, just hang in there. I love you." She gave him a light kiss on the cheek. Even though he was incoherent, she still hoped he had heard her. She turned back to rejoin the circle. Everypony watched as Fluttershy found her place amongst the newly formed circle and stood tall with newly found confidence. "Is every pony ready?" Twilight said softly as she gazed around the group, in which everypony slowly nodded. Twilight then turned her gaze to Fluttershy alone. "Are you ready?" Fluttershy gulped and let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. She looked to Twilight and nodded. Everypony silently watched as Twilight levitated all six Elements of Harmony and gently placed them on the floor in front of their designated bearers. She placed her own Element in front of herself last. Everypony stood still for a moment. Until Rarity broke the silence. "Is there a certain protocol we have to take? I mean..these are the Elements of Harmony we're dealing with...maybe there's a certain step we have to take?" Rarity asked hesitantly. "That doesn't matter Rarity. You don't need to take steps to destroy somethin'. You just do what you must until you can't use it no more." Applejack said. Rarity felt stupid, just realizing now that her question had an obvious answer. Twilight ignored them and looked down at the Element at her hooves. Even after years of being encased in necklaces and a crown, and defeating numerous villains; including Nightmare Moon, from whom they originally recovered them from, they still shone with as much shininess as they were when Twilight and her friends first rediscovered them after defeating Nightmare Moon. It was one thing to visit the Tree of Harmony and see the Elements resting in it's branches...but having them suddenly gone altogether? That was a new thing in it's entirety... Twilight sighed sadly as she glanced at the star shaped gem at her hoofs.. "Goodbye faithful old friend." She whispered to it, before suddenly bringing her hoof down hard on top of it..breaking it to pieces...
Chapter 15There was the sound of glass shattering as Twiight's hoof made contact with the precious gem. The sound echoing off the walls in the silent room. Everypony stared at Twilight, shocked at what she just did. Just then, a light stream of magenta aura rose out of the broken Element and drifted toward where Discord was laying on the bed. Everypony was in awe as they watched the thin stream of light absorb into Discord's body. With new confidence she hadn't had in a while, Fluttershy smashed her butterfly shaped jewel the same way as Twilight had done. She watched as her Element released a thin, soft pink aura and drifted toward her husband before it was absorbed into his still form. Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash followed suit. They all watched as auras the same color as their Elements floated to Discord, and was once again, absorbed into his body. Everypony, including Fluttershy, held their breath in anticipation as they waited to see if it would work. Fluttershy inched closer to the base of the bed. Praying in inside her heart that it wouldn't be too late. Finally, after what felt like forever, Discord's body returned back to it's normal shade of color. He sat up rubbing his eagle claw on his forehead. "Ugh...wh..what happened..." He moaned, without looking up from massaging his head. "DISCORD!!" Discord looked up just in time to see Fluttershy speeding toward him. He gave a muffled "oof" as she barreled him over. He became worried when he heard Fluttershy sobbing into his chest. "Fluttershy what's wrong? Are you alright?" He put his claws under her chin and tilted her head up so she was looking up at him. He frowned when he saw the tears in her beautiful teal orbs that were her eyes. Fluttershy didn't reply, but instead threw her forelegs around Discord's neck and just continued to cry into it. Discord instinctively put his arms around her waist and pulled her tight against him. He gently stroked her mane as he held her against him, something that he knew helped calm her down. She continued to cling to his neck. She started to slow down her cries. Discord smiled, knowing his method was working, His smiled widened when he felt the tears cease to fall. He felt Fluttershy's hold on him lighten. She sniffled once or twice before letting go of his neck completely. Fluttershy looked up at the now yellow and red eyes of her husband. She put a hoof to his cheek and was happy to see him lean into the touch. "I-I'm just s-so happy you're okay Discord." Fluttershy whispered. She leaned up and kissed him on his lips. Pouring out all the love and desperation from the week into it. Discord was taken by surprise at first by the intensity of the kiss, but quickly recovered and just as eagerly kissed her back, digging his talons into her mane as he did so. They pulled apart, and Fluttershy sighed in bliss. She rested her head on his soft chest. She was overcome with happiness to hear the strong beating of his heart and to feel the steady rise and fall of his chest as he breathed. Fluttershy could not be more happier and at peace than she was now. THE END.
