Fuzzy Blue Lights

Chapters

Prologue
Chapter 1 - Life isn't fair
Chapter 2 - Have faith
Chapter 3 - Alone
Chapter 4 - Wearing thin
Chapter 5 - At first glance
Chapter 6 - Hello again
Chapter 7 - A taste of something better
Chapter 8 - Running from nothing
Chapter 9 - Let your hopes go
Chapter 10 - Sleepwalking
Chapter 11 - The feeling of letting go

Prologue

I don't know why you hate singing. I think you sound beautiful.

"M-Moved?" Fluttershy's eyes widened at the teacher's words, unable to fully process them. "Moved where? Why? Was she being bad?" Oh, how that Rainbow often found ways to land herself in the principle's office.

"No, Fluttershy," Mrs. Field huffed, looking down at the small girl from behind her thick spectacles. "The Rainbow family all moved out of Windy City."

Moved... out of Windy City? So that was... far away, it sounded like.

"Do you know when she'll be back?"

"Please take your seat." Mrs. Field said dismissively.

Confused, and a little hurt, Fluttershy returned to her table. She sat next to Rainbow Dash every day, or at least she should have. Rainbow Dash was a peculiar girl. She did a lot of dumb boy things, like picking her nose and putting her feet on the table, but she was pretty much the only kid who got along with Fluttershy.

They played together, ate lunch together, and had even slept next to each other during naptime. It hadn't always been like that, though. A few days after kindergarten started, one boy was yanking on Fluttershy's hair (and Fluttershy did nothing in response, as according to her mother, that's just the sort of thing boys do when they like a girl), and Rainbow Dash just marched up to him and dumped a carton of orange juice on him.

She got put in time out, which Fluttershy thought was unfair. So, Fluttershy dumped her baggie of animal crackers in the puzzle box. Now imprisoned with Rainbow, she took the opportunity to thank her for what she did. Rainbow Dash just grinned her toothy grin and said, "Don't worry about it."

They became best friends after that. For over two years, they did everything together (and good thing, too. Once second grade came around, Rainbow Dash practically relied on Fluttershy to learn how to write. Not that Fluttershy minded). They were inseparable. So of course, it was a huge shock for Fluttershy to learn that her best friend had apparently moved without a word.

Why would she do that? Fluttershy fumed. Friends shouldn't move!

Her inner pouting was silenced by a sharp twip on the back of her neck. Reaching back, Fluttershy felt something warm and wet stuck to her skin. A couple boys behind her snickered, and she turned just in time to see them hide their straws under the table.

It was then that Fluttershy realized: the only reason nobody had picked on her was because Rainbow Dash stuck with her. Fluttershy cried out; her suspicions were most certainly confirmed when the girl beside her kicked her shin.

Mrs. Field looked up. "Is something the matter, Fluttershy?"

Feeling eyes locked onto her, Fluttershy shook her head. For some reason, it felt rather selfish, but Fluttershy hoped that wherever Rainbow Dash moved, she would come back soon.

Chapter 1 - Life isn't fair

"So, what do you normally do when you're out here?"

The two girls walked slowly through the grassfield just beyond Fluttershy's house. Fluttershy often came out here, so much so that it honestly felt like a second home. The cool air, the soft grass, the perfect amount of sunshine, and a small river to play in. What was not to love about it?

Rainbow Dash was obviously bored. Fluttershy knew that this was a long shot, but it couldn't have hurt to try. After all, Rainbow was the one who wanted a hangout spot. Why not have it in such a special place?

"I listen."

Rainbow Dash's face scrunched up. "But there's nothing to listen to."

"There is," Fluttershy smiled as she closed her eyes. "If you want to hear it."

"Okay, I'll bite," Rainbow Dash folded her hands behind her head as she walked. "Like what?"

"All the singing of the birds. The wind in the grass. The insects, the animals." Fluttershy sighed, as if hearing the rising symphony of a grand orchestra. The tunes of the world amplified in her ears. The light brushing of grass blades on her sandals, the flapping of dragonfly wings, the soft trickling of water, the sway of branches on nearby trees. Beautiful.

Rainbow Dash only frowned in confusion. "Ohhh-kay then."

Fluttershy opened her eyes, the reverie already fading. Poor Rainbow; if only she knew what she was missing out on. She smiled again when her destination finally came into sight.

"There. That apple tree. Wouldn't that be perfect for our spot?"

Rainbow Dash raised a hand to block the sunlight as she gazed out. "Yeah," She grinned. "I think it would."

Fluttershy was snapped from her vision by a loud thudding.

"Oops," one of the boys sneered, having pushed her books off of the table and onto the linoleum floor.

Fluttershy said nothing, leaning down to retrieve her textbooks. Before she could grab them, she yelped as someone seized her ankles. Her wrists were grabbed, too, and before she knew it, Fluttershy was being dragged out of the classroom. Someone else clamped a hand over her mouth so she couldn't call for help. Mr. D was still escorting Caramel Coffee to the nurse's office; there was no one to save her.

Fluttershy squirmed as she was hauled out the classroom door. The boys giggled in sadistic glee, lugging her down the hall as quickly as they could. They stopped by the janitor's closet, and one of them whipped it open. With a yelp, she was tossed inside the dark, cramped quarters. She was cast into stark blackness when the door shut behind her.

Fluttershy groaned, her knees and elbows aching from the landing. She sat up slowly, trying to let her eyes adjust. Before that could happen, the single light bulb overhead flickered on, lighting up her surrounding. Fluttershy looked around. Those bullies had to have had a specific reason to throw her in here. And she found it.

Fluttershy froze when she saw the giant, hairy tarantula on the wall. It made no movement, but Fluttershy couldn’t help but feel like it was watching her. And oddly, despite the terror seemingly shared by everyone she knew, Fluttershy didn't feel all too afraid of it. After a minute of silence, Fluttershy decided to parley.

"They are probably hoping that I'll get scared of you and start crying, but you're not so bad, are you?" Fluttershy asked the arachnid. "Well, we're probably equally scared of each other right now, but how about we make a deal? I won't hurt you, and you won't hurt me. Sound good?"

She received no answer, as she expected, but Fluttershy sensed a degree of understanding. Feeling rejuvenated by the terms, Fluttershy stood up and held her open palm out to the wall.

"Come on, you can trust me."

"Dude, something's wrong. We shoulda' heard her by now."

The boys huddled together, inching closer to the door, though none of them dared to flip the lock.

"Excuse me gentlemen, perhaps you could do me a favor," The boys all jumped at the sound of their cranky old teacher's voice. "I seem to be missing a certain number of students from my classroom. You all match the profiles of those MIA, but there still seems to be one that I can't locate."

The boys exchanged nervous looks. One of the younger ones shot a glance over his shoulder at the closet. The tall, lanky teacher raised a bushy eyebrow.

"You seem distressed, Mister Skies. Have you displaced anything recently?" The teacher bared his teeth in a wide, threatening smile. "It wouldn't happen to be in the janitor's closet, now would it?"

Fluttershy looked up as the door swung back open. Mr. D was standing in the doorway, and the boys that had trapped her cowered behind him. Without looking at them, he ordered in a low, serious voice, "Office. Now." They didn't need to be told twice.

Mr. D offered Fluttershy a hand to stand up, which she accepted.

"My my, it seems you've made a new friend in my absence."

Fluttershy looked down at the fuzzy spider cradled in her palm, and smiled sheepishly. "He's actually very nice."

"Oh, I don't doubt it," Mr. D said without a hint of sarcasm. "Come along, now. We should find your friend a Tupperware dish, before he starts a stampede."

Fluttershy smiled as she held the Tupperware container close. Mr. D had used a letter opener to punch holes in the lid for her eight-legged companion.

"Now then, you'll come see me if you ever have any troubles, won't you?" Fluttershy nodded timidly in response. "Very good. Off you trot, now. Wouldn't want you to miss the bus."

Fluttershy nodded again, then turned to leave. Before she retreated past the door, she stopped. "Mr. D?" The elderly teacher looked up from the papers he was reading. "Um, I just want you to know that I don't think you're mean and scary, like the other students."

Mr. D took off his glasses and smiled. "Why my dear, I'm so very flattered to hear that."

Fluttershy felt happy. Actually, genuinely happy. It had been a while.

"I guess it's a good thing those bullies locked me up in there, otherwise I wouldn't have met you." Fluttershy thought aloud as she admired the tarantula. She should give him a name.

"Talking to bugs now, freak?"

Fluttershy wilted upon hearing the voice of the tormentor. This wasn't even his street; couldn't she just catch one break?

"He's had a rough day, I'm trying to help him calm down." Fluttershy turned around to face Grey Skies. She stiffened when she saw the baseball bat in his hand.

What does he plan to do with that?

"Jesus, you make it sound like he's your pet cat, or something."

"He's smart like a cat, and he can be my pet." Fluttershy said defensively.

"No, that thing's a pest," Grey Skies took a step towards her. "And it can't even do its job right."

"What are you doing?" Fluttershy screeched as he knocked the plastic container from her hands. It fell open on the sidewalk with a clatter. "You'll hurt him!"

"I'm doing the world a favor." Grey Skies muttered as he raised the bat. It then occurred to Fluttershy that he was still just trying to get at her. And if he couldn't scare her into crying, he'd do something a lot worse. Fluttershy tried fending him off, but he shoved her to the ground with one arm. Fluttershy could only watch in horror as he brought the bat down with a single forceful swing.

Fluttershy sniffled, the foul taste of bile still lingering on her tongue. Her stinging palms were still red with blood, now mixed with dirt. She gave a small sob as she stood over the unmarked grave of her innocent little friend in her mom's garden. Of all the horrible, unjust things that had happened today, one stood higher than the rest.

"I didn't give him a name."

Chapter 2 - Have faith

"It's a little high up."

"Yeah, we can see everything from up here!"

"Okay... how do we get back down?"

"We climb."

"I'm not sure I can."

"Don't worry about it, I'll help you."

"You promise?"

"Promise."

"What?" Rainbow Dash gaped in disbelief at the moving truck. Everything was already packed and loaded. "Where are we going?"

"I told you yesterday," Rainbow's father grunted as he lifted one of the final boxes. "Your mother got a better job in Canterlot, so that's where we're moving."

"But-But what about my friends?" Rainbow Dash sputtered desperately.

"Should've said goodbye when you were at school." Rainbow Blaze muttered darkly as he toted his luggage to the car. He stopped in front of Rainbow Dash to drop her baseball bag stuffed full at her feet. Her entire life fit into that one bag.

"Can... can we at least stop by Fluttershy's?" Rainbow Dash tried not to sound desperate.

"I'm sorry, Dash," her father sighed, fitting the box snugly into place. "But we have to go."

Fluttershy looked up. The black lettering of the counselor's office had been painted over. It was replaced by the words "Discord's Emporium" in yellow and green, each letter a different size and font.

Fluttershy was thankful that Mr. D was a counselor this year instead of a teacher. This way, she at least got to spend more time with him. Mr. D was very odd. His full name was just Discord, but Fluttershy still respectfully called him Mr. D.

Mr. D decorated his office with the strangest of memorabilia. Old movie posters in different languages, cardboard cutouts of random animals, maps, and empty snack wrappers. Fluttershy got the sense that perhaps Mr. D used to be a traveler. The room was actually quite comfortable, as long as you didn't mind the garish clashing of purple shag carpet and brown paint.

They were all things that Fluttershy became quite familiar with.

As she entered the room, she found Mr. D twirling in his swivel chair while focusing intently on the book in his left hand.

"Ah, good afternoon, Miss Shy. How may I help you?" He didn't even look up or slow down. He must have a keen eye.

"It's lunchtime." Fluttershy said without explanation. Mr. D stopped in a split second, directly facing Fluttershy.

"How lovely. I already have cucumber sandwiches prepared." He closed the book (which Fluttershy noted had been upside-down) and stood up to walk over to his mini-fridge.

They had been doing this for a while. Since nobody let Fluttershy sit with them at lunch, she would just come down here. Mr. D always made lunch for two; besides, someone would just end up taking Fluttershy's lunch money anyway.

It didn't hurt that Mr. D's sandwiches were delicious.

"So," Mr. D began, after letting Fluttershy get a few mouthfuls in. "Another patient of mine came in the other day remarking upon how happy she was that a certain young girl has taken the time to befriend her," He smiled warmly as he spoke. "Do I have you to thank for that?"

Fluttershy swallowed the food in her mouth before she answered. "Honeysuckle? We've been friends for a few weeks."

Mr. D gave a pleased grin. "Very good. Ah, dear Honeysuckle," He sighed dramatically. "She's been having quite a few of the same problems you've suffered. Which reminds me..."

Mr. D leaned forward, examining Fluttershy's face.

"You, young lady, need to get more sleep. Talk to your parents about medication, if you need to."

Fluttershy nodded. "Okay, I will."

Fluttershy stared blankly at her reflection. She realized that her look had become much more noticeable. The long-sleeve sweaters had been to cover up bruises when she got them. Fluttershy's ankle-reaching skirts were just the result of having her skirt lifted too many times before. They also did wonders to hide her cuts. Fluttershy read somewhere on her mom's laptop that they were supposed to help, but so far they hadn't been working. But that wasn't what she was focusing on. The bags under her eyes had darkened since yesterday. How had she not noticed?

I'll just cover it up with some of Mom's makeup, Fluttershy decided as she exited the bathroom. She waved at her friend who was waiting for her outside.

"You coming?" Honeysuckle asked.

Honeysuckle was a lot like Fluttershy in certain ways. She loved nature, was often quiet around others, and was very kind. Though she had a distinct passion for heavy metal music, a trait that Fluttershy did not share. It was enough, however, for bullies to go after her like they did with Fluttershy.

Nobody nice gets out of middle school without being stepped on all the way. Honeysuckle was two grades above Fluttershy, but they only had each other, and so together they stayed. Of course, that meant that next year, Honeysuckle would have to go to high school. Fluttershy didn't know who had it worse.

Fluttershy nodded, joining Honeysuckle's side. Their study period was in the library, which meant that they could look forward to almost a full hour of no one pestering them; the librarian was far too attentive to let any of that go on under her nose.

That didn't stop any troublemakers from getting their kicks in before they arrived, however. Some boy walked behind them, every now and then stepping on the heels of their shoes. Honeysuckle looked like she was ready to turn around and deck him.

She managed to last, however, until they reached their safe-haven. Fluttershy and Honeysuckle silently headed for their usual spot by the window. Fluttershy took out all of her notes, and began poring over them. When she looked up several minutes later, she saw that Honeysuckle was doodling a skull on her notebook instead of reading notes.

Lately, Honeysuckle had been teaching Fluttershy how to draw. It was pleasantly therapeutic, but there was a time and place for everything.

"Honeysuckle," Fluttershy whispered. "Shouldn't you study for your history quiz?"

Honeysuckle gave a tired sigh, her oceanic blue eyes wandering over the paper. "Probably." She placed her head in her hands, staring down the hastily written notes.

Fluttershy went back to her own studying. After a moment of consideration, Fluttershy looked up, ready to ask Honeysuckle a question. She stopped when she saw that Honeysuckle was fast asleep. Fluttershy frowned worriedly. This was becoming a bad habit that Honeysuckle couldn't afford.

"Honeysuckle," Fluttershy prodded her arm with a pencil. "Honeysuckle!" She whispered more urgently. Honeysuckle looked up in confusion.

"Huh? What?"

"You were falling asleep again."

"Oh," Honeysuckle rubbed her eyes. "Sorry, I just haven't been getting enough sleep," Fluttershy knew how that felt. "Home is just too crazy for that. Oh yeah, that reminds me."

Fluttershy watched as Honeysuckle dug into her backpack. "What?"

"I got something for you," Honeysuckle answered, retrieving a small leather pouch. She passed it over to Fluttershy. Curiously, she accepted. "Go on, open it."

Fluttershy did as instructed, and undid the clasp. Carefully, she slid out a small hard object wrapped in white cloth. Honeysuckle watched with expectant eyes as Fluttershy removed them.

Sitting in Fluttershy's hand was a small, expensive-looking hairpin. It was shaped like a butterfly, with wings made from a lustrous, pearly material, and the body from a transparent green stone. It was surprisingly lightweight.

"It was my grandmother's," Honeysuckle smiled in fond remembrance. "She was the only one who really loved me. None of my family deserve it, so I want you to have it."

Fluttershy stared in shock, first at the pin, then at Honeysuckle. "I can't possibly take this. It means too much to you."

"It does," Honeysuckle agreed. "But it's mine to give. I'd rather see you have it than either of my parents. They'd just sell it."

Fluttershy shook her head. "I-I can't. I can't even wear it."

"You could if you grew your hair out," Honeysuckle commented. She shook her head. "Look, it's a gift, okay? I want you and you alone to have it."

Silently, Fluttershy looked back down at the hairpin. Despite its age, it was still a hardy little thing. Fluttershy covered it again with the cloth, then returned it to its pouch.

She then stood up and walked around the table to wrap Honeysuckle in a hug.

"Thank you."

Chapter 3 - Alone

"It's getting late. Should we head back?"

"Aw, just when I was getting used to sitting on top of the world."

"We'll come back."

"Yeah, yeah. This is our spot, now. Forever."

"Zephyr, Fluttershy," Mr. Shy began. "I'm expecting a call from work tonight. If the phone rings before your mother and I return, it is important that you do not answer it. Let them leave a message. Okay?"

Fluttershy remembered the instructions clearly. And when the phone rang, she refused to touch it. However, this was the second time they were calling. They didn't need to call twice to leave a message, Fluttershy was fairly certain.

She considered answering it; it had been ringing for a while, and she was trying to sleep. She shook her head, thinking better of it. Burying herself beneath her covers, Fluttershy allowed the ringing to continue, knowing that she probably wouldn't get any sleep anyway.

"You're still in bed?"

Fluttershy groaned in confusion at her brother's squeaky voice. Why did he have to bother her?

"Zephyr, stay out of my room."

Zephyr Breeze scoffed. "It's already 7:00. Mom told me to get you up before you miss the bus."

Fluttershy forced open her eyes as her little brother left downstairs, making a point of stomping all the way down. There used to be a time when news like that would have Fluttershy leaping out of bed to brush her teeth and shower. But not anymore, apparently.

Fluttershy took what felt like hours to sit up and swing her feet off the bed. The simple act drained more energy than was probably required. Fluttershy felt so dense, she was surprised that she didn’t sink through her bed and floor and down into the earth. And why did her jaw hurt so much? Had she been grinding her teeth again?

She rubbed her eyes, then sat still. Fluttershy didn't have enough time to shower. Not at the rate she typically showered, anyway (usually, just standing under the steaming water for half an hour until her legs grew tired). But she didn’t like the taste of morning breath, so she decided to brush her teeth, at least. Once that was done, Fluttershy began searching for relatively clean clothes while half-heartedly combing her hair. It didn't matter what she put on. Anything would do.

Now fully dressed, and feeling rather stale, Fluttershy slowly descended the stairs outside her room. She tried remembering if she had any homework due, but she didn’t even know what day it was.

Today will be better, Fluttershy promised herself. The greyness of the normally vibrant world around her seemed to be doing its best to dissuade that thought. Today will be better.

Fluttershy sighed. Someone had opened her desk and snapped all of her pencils. Off to a great start already. She looked over at the clock. She still had some time before class started. She pushed back from the desk and stood up. It couldn't hurt to check with Mr. D.

Fluttershy found the eccentric counselor in his emporium, for whatever reason dressed in a bright orange dress coat and pants.

"Good morning, Miss Shy. How may I be of service?"

"Hello, Mr. D," Fluttershy greeted. "Um, I was wondering if I could join your after-school study group."

Mr. D smiled. "As if I would turn you away," He tipped his orange top hat (which Fluttershy didn't question. Mr. D dressed how he wanted, and Fluttershy was used to that. In fact, she wouldn't have it any other way). "While you're there, you simply must show me how you make your exquisite tea. I've tried everything, and it's a brew that I do not possess the capability to replicate."

Fluttershy smiled; Mr. D was a master of finding ways to help students feel appreciated. "Okay, I will."

"Splendid. Now, scurry along. Class starts in two minutes."

Fluttershy peeked in Mr. Green's science class. She bit her lip; Honeysuckle's seat was empty again. This was the fourth day. If she was sick, she would have called Fluttershy by now.

Or maybe she went on a trip with family. No, that couldn't be it; they never went on trips. Maybe Honeysuckle finally caved in and started seeing a therapist, like Mr. D recommended. She did have a rather relieved look about her last week, like she had just made a close good decision. That was probably it.

Fluttershy would have asked the last time they said goodbye, had it occurred to her.

Feeling assured by her deduction, Fluttershy returned to class. A wet wad of chewed gum stuck to her seat awaited her. Today could still be a good day.

Fluttershy stared in horror. Her locker was wide open. How long had it been like that? She rushed over to it. The lock had been cast to the ground. The combination had been the date Rainbow Dash left.

How could anyone have possibly guessed that?!

Fluttershy moaned in distress. A rotten smell rose up from the bottom, where she found several cracked eggs. Her books had been knocked down, and someone had blanked out most of her notes with white-out. But that wasn't what stopped Fluttershy's heart.

No, Fluttershy reached a trembling hand to pick up her sketch pad. Anything but those.

Hands shaking, she opened it. A quick, shuddering gasp escaped her lips. Her drawing of a rose was now covered in black Sharpie scribbles. So was her drawing of a dog. Fluttershy flipped through it. In some way or another, each drawing had been defiled, whether it sported foul language or crude additions of male no-no parts.

Fluttershy gripped the pad. Please, please, please!

Not Rainbow. It was so hard. It had taken so long. Fluttershy had recalled every memory she had to get the details just right. She had actually felt proud that she had created something she could remember Rainbow Dash by. Fluttershy was sickened to see her graffitied the way she was.

Every single drawing, all the way back to the precious last page holding her old friend, was ruined.

...I won't cry, Fluttershy promised herself. The last time she did, all the people watching had popped out of their hiding places to laugh at her. Someone had even filmed it. This is what they wanted.

I won't cry.

Fluttershy trudged towards Mr. D's emporium, with even less energy than yesterday. The stupid PA announcement told students to go to the gym immediately, but Fluttershy had something more important than some dumb assembly to take care of.

She opened the door, revealing Mr. D slouched in his chair, head in his hands.

"Mr. D?" Fluttershy asked quietly.

Mr. D looked up. His eyes were red and moist, like he was sick. "Fluttershy? What- Why aren't you in the gymnasium?"

"I'm sorry," Fluttershy whispered. "I just... do you know where Honeysuckle is?"

If Honeysuckle went to therapy, she'd definitely tell Mr. D. And heaven knew Fluttershy needed Honeysuckle right now.

Mr. D looked like Fluttershy had just punched him in the stomach. He tried speaking, but no words came out. He cleared his throat, wiping his eyes as he did so.

"Fluttershy, shut the door behind you. And... please take a seat."

Fluttershy sat on the edge of her bed. She could hear nothing but a consistent ringing in her ears. Clutched close to her heart in weakened hands was a small leather pouch.

"Hey Fluttershy, it's your turn to do the dishes tonight," Zephyr Breeze sang tauntingly as he let himself in. When Fluttershy said nothing, he frowned in confusion. "Hey. Fluttershy, look at me, I'm in your room!"

Fluttershy paid no attention to her brother as he did a ridiculous little jig. Her vision was too blurred for her to notice anyway. Zephyr stopped, his smile fading when Fluttershy began sobbing.

"Uh, I'm sorry?"

Fluttershy's shoulders shook, and she fell forward, curling up on the floor as she wailed louder.

"What's going on?" Fluttershy's mother demanded as she entered. Zephyr stammered, eyes wide.

"I-I was just- I swear I didn't mean to-"

"I'm sorry!" Fluttershy bawled. Her body tightened like a spring. She burned, inside and out, shouting over and over again, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry!"

Chapter 4 - Wearing thin

I miss her. I wonder how she's doing. I wonder if she misses me. I wish I could go back. Actually, I wish she could come here. The kids here are nicer. She'd have more friends here.

I wish I didn't think about her so much. I wish it didn't have to hurt.

The world had gone silent. It carried everything with a lack of color, making everything through Fluttershy's eyes look like one of the pictures on the front of one of Dad's morning newspapers: dull and lifeless.

There was no beauty in it. Nothing to be enjoyed. No taste to be savored, no music to calm the soul, nothing to excite, to admire, to smile at. There was nothing.

Through all this nothingness, Fluttershy operated on a programmed schedule: wake up, go to school, come home, go to bed. Shower on Saturdays. Eat when hunger becomes unbearable. The only thing that managed to briefly wake her from autopilot was the realization that her intervals between meals were gradually growing longer.

Oh, but she couldn't let her parents know. They'd ask questions. Their suspicions would be confirmed. It was surprisingly easy how far a fake smile could get a person each day. Two minutes hunched over the toilet was all she needed to cleanse herself when she ate to please them.

Zephyr was harder to maintain. He was always watchful. Young enough to not understand, but old enough to know something was wrong.

But Fluttershy managed somehow. Somehow, they never asked. They asked how she was doing, and how her day went all the time. But they never asked. Thankfully. Because occasionally there were times like this when Fluttershy thought she might break and tell them.

Fluttershy blinked at her locker door. The word SLUT had been scrawled over it with bright pink lipstick. Fluttershy sighed in defeat; she already knew what this was about. Someone must have seen her kiss Autumn Chimes last week.

It hadn't been serious. He was upset that his brother left to join the military, and Fluttershy thought she could cheer him up (and frankly, she just wanted to know what it felt like). She was trying to be nice. Was that really so bad?

Autumn Chimes was one of the nicer students. He had moved here two years ago, and had a few friends. He never picked on Fluttershy. Evidently, even he knew better than to associate with her, as when Fluttershy entered her first period class, Autumn's seat was empty.

I've ruined his life, Fluttershy muttered darkly in her head. Now, he would forever be known as the boy that made out with Fluttershy, the weird girl. Or worse. The kids in this school had a way of embellishing gossip.

Fluttershy closed her eyes. The math teacher rambled on and on about equations that Fluttershy would never be able to understand. She might as well get some sleep. Just as Fluttershy began to nod off, she heard someone call her name.

"Huh? What?" Fluttershy jerked back into reality.

She was surprised to see that Mr. D was standing in the doorway. "I'll have her back in just a few minutes, old chap." He nodded at the teacher, while motioning for Fluttershy to follow him.

Hesitantly, Fluttershy scooted back her chair and stood up. She passed through the rows of desks to the door, and joined Mr. D. The pair went back to Mr. D's office, where Fluttershy sat down facing him.

"So, Miss Shy," Mr. D began nonchalantly. "How are you?"

Fluttershy blinked. "What?"

"How are you?" Mr. D repeated. "How are your grades, how are you feeling, how is life?"

"...Fine."

"Ah, ah, ah," Mr. D raised an index finger. "Please refrain from saying the F-word in my presence. Come now, Fluttershy, there's no one here to judge you. You can be honest with me."

Fluttershy shrank in her seat, wishing she could disappear entirely. "...I don't know."

"A fair answer," Mr. D mused. "I ask this because I have a growing concern: last year, when you stopped coming to see me, I had hoped that it was because you were finally doing better. But I've just checked with all of your teachers, and they did not have pretty tales to share with me."

He drew out his reading glasses from his pocket, and donned them as he retrieved a sheet of paper from his desk. "In addition to a refusal to work with other students, Fluttershy has shown worryingly little care for herself as a student or as a person. Homework is often turned in incomplete, she has a growing tendency of falling asleep in class, and she seems to take minimal hygienic care of her body. She has denied any inquiries of substance abuse, bullying from her peers, or abuse at the home environment. A parent-teacher advisory meeting is strongly recommended ASAP."

Fluttershy shrank down until she could shrink no more, feeling a stab of guilt.

"You don't want to get better, do you?" Mr. D asked. Fluttershy kept her eyes on the floor, unable to meet his gaze. "I'm not singling you out. It pains me to say, but you wouldn't be my first patient to reach that point. Which is why, of course, I'm worried that if this goes on for too long, you'll make an unfortunately irreversible decision."

...Fluttershy had thought about it, hadn’t she? It started out as just the innocent wonder if anyone would miss her. Then it evolved into why anyone would miss her. When no clear answer was declared, Fluttershy found herself entertaining the picture in her head of the overpass above the train tracks, and what a long fall it was. Daily, almost.

She could do it.

"I don't expect anything from you," Mr. D sighed. "But this meeting is happening. Regardless of how it ends, or if you even want help, I'd like for you to join me after school again. You don't have to, and I won't hound you to if you elect not to. I want to help you, Fluttershy. But now, the only person who can help you, is you."

Fluttershy held her breath. This was the farthest she had ever gone. A soft wind pushed at her back, as if urging her to do it. Fluttershy swallowed. This could be it. Why wasn't she sad? Wouldn't she be hurting her parents, and brother? Wouldn't she hurt Mr. D?

Didn't Honeysuckle hurt Fluttershy?

She reached a foot out. Would be painful? Would she even live long enough to feel it? She leaned forward. Should she fall feet or head first? Her grip on the chain link fence behind her lessened.

Is this what I want?

Clenching her teeth, Fluttershy carefully turned around. She scaled the fence, safely landing on the metal floor of the overpass. She scolded herself in shame. She was too scared to do it.

Not today. Not yet.

Fluttershy looked around. She was in an empty, nondescript courtyard. People were whispering. Where they were, or what they whispered about, Fluttershy couldn't tell.

"Loser."

That was the first word Fluttershy heard. It was followed by a slew of other familiar names thrown at Fluttershy. Freak, retard, pathetic, weak, bitch. They bounced harmlessly back; she had heard them too many times for them to do anything now.

"I hate you." Fluttershy gasped when she heard Autumn Chimes. He appeared from nowhere, fists curled. "Why couldn't you just leave me alone?"

Autumn was joined by Fluttershy's parents, her brother, Mr. D, Honeysuckle, and practically everyone who she had ever liked, all adding to the chorus of voices.

"Why are you so clingy?"

"Why are you such a disappointment?"

"I only took pity on you."

"I never really liked you."

Fluttershy pressed her hands to her ears, still failing to drown out the horrible confessions. She clenched her eyes shut.

"I don't care what happens to you."

"We'd be better off without you."

"I'm glad I left."

Fluttershy froze at the new voice. She looked up. Rainbow Dash stood in front of her, fury and disgust burning in her cold, magenta eyes.

"Do you actually think I wanted to be friends with you?"

"...No."

"Do you actually think I wanted to be friends with you?" Rainbow Dash repeated, her voice rising.

"No." Fluttershy sobbed. She whimpered when Rainbow Dash seized her arms and shook her violently, now shouting in her face.

"Do you actually think I wanted to be friends with you?!"

"NOOOOO!!!"

"Bah! Where? Where?"

Mr. Shy burst through the door wielding his wedge club, ready to cave in the skull of whoever was attacking his daughter. He frantically searched the room, but Fluttershy was alone. She quivered underneath her blanket, sobbing quietly.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." She whispered hoarsely.

"What happened?" Fluttershy's mother asked urgently as she appeared behind Mr. Shy. Zephyr Breeze also entered, awakened by the clammer.

"There... ah-" Mr. Shy rubbed the back of his head. Now knowing there was no danger, he realized just how un-threatening he looked in his white and blue-striped pajamas.

"Are you alright, dear?" Mrs. Shy asked as she moved to sit down beside Fluttershy. Still crying, Fluttershy shook her head.

"We need to try it." Mrs. Shy said firmly. "She won't tell us, but I know it's this school. It's just not working."

Mr. Shy ran his hand through his hair. "I don't know. Moving can be hard at their age."

"She's miserable here," Mrs. Shy exclaimed. "We've tried counseling, tutoring, and therapy. She's just not happy anymore!"

"I know. I've tried talking to her, but she won't open up."

"Exactly," Mrs. Shy exhaled to steady herself. "We have to transfer her. We'll spend more time with her. We'll take family counseling if we have to. I don't want to see either of my children like that ever again."

Fluttershy listened from the top of the stairs. She exchanged looks with her brother. He looked worried and confused. Fluttershy felt the same. Moving? It almost seemed too good to be true. But she couldn't bring herself to feel relieved.

In the back of her mind, Fluttershy cried at the unfairness of once again having her closest friend taken away from her.

Mr. D looked at his clock. 5:30. Most of the other faculty had left already. It would be time for him to close up shop too, soon. He sighed as he continued his task.

Three drops of freshly pressed raspberry, one spoonful of sugar, a splash of cream. He mixed it in for a minute, letting the ingredients dissolve. He raised the teacup to his lips, tasting the steaming liquid, then shook his head.

It still wasn't quite right.

Chapter 5 - At first glance

"I don't hear any singing."

"It's meta... meterforum... it's a figure of speech."

"Eh, I guess you just hear something I don't. I wouldn't know, I don't even sing at all."

"I do. Or, I try to. I hate singing in front of other people, though."

"Why?"

"I'm not very good."

"What? Come on."

"It's true."

"I don't believe that. Come on, sing something."

"...I don't know. You'll hate it."

"No I won't, I swear. I'm not other people."

Rainbow Dash shot up, slamming her hand down on the alarm clock. Today was the day. Feeling uncharacteristically enthusiastic for a Monday morning, she hopped out of bed and skittered down the stairs. She quickly poured herself a bowl of cereal and began devouring. Rainbow Blaze thumped his way down soon after.

"Mornin', airhead." He mumbled tiredly as he ruffled Rainbow's hair.

"Mornin', jerk." Rainbow Dash stuck out her tongue after slurping down the leftover milk.

"You ready for the game tonight?" Rainbow Blaze asked as he fished out bread from the refrigerator.

"Aw, hell yeah!" Rainbow Dash grinned.

Rainbow Dash was only on the Canterlot JV football team, but Blaze had sweet-talked Spitfire into letting her sub for Varsity. Rainbow may be small, but she was fast, and she could take a hit. With Soarin down with a broken leg, it was Rainbow's time to shine!

Rainbow Dash zoomed back up the stairs as soon as she put her dishes away, then took a quick shower. By the time Rainbow Blaze had finished his toast, Rainbow Dash was prepped and ready, proudly wearing her jersey over her t-shirt.

"Jesus, save your energy for the field." He chuckled, disappearing into his room to look for clothes.

Rainbow Dash couldn't help it. She just knew today was going to be a good day.

Fluttershy had a sinking feeling that today was not going to be a good day. Why would it be good? The kids back home hated her, why would it be any different here?

According to her mother, this school district was more respectably rated, in whatever ways they rate schools. Not that Fluttershy cared. Maybe, just maybe, she could paint a positive enough picture of herself that the students here wouldn't drive her to tears.

Zephyr was nervous, naturally. Fluttershy realized with a pang that it was because of her that he had to leave Skysail and Treehugger behind.

Because that's all I'm good for, Fluttershy cursed herself. Ruining things.

She steeled herself as she opened the car door.

"You have your schedule? You remember how to get to your classes?" Mrs. Shy fretted. Fluttershy nodded. "Okay. Well, good luck, honey."

Fluttershy stepped out, ready for whatever waited for her on day 1 at Canterlot High.

"Did ya hear 'bout the new kid?" Applejack asked.

Rainbow Dash shook her head. This was a relatively small town, so new kids would be the buzz of the month.

"You meet 'em?"

"Nope," Applejack smiled, elbowing Rainbow Dash slightly. "Ah hear that she's a city slicker, like you."

"Oh, screw you," Rainbow Dash play-shoved Applejack. "How many years have I worn the Wondercolts jersey? And speaking of-"

"Ah ain't joinin' the football team." Applejack deadpanned.

"Why not?" Rainbow Dash pouted.

"Ah got farm work. Besides, y'all know Ah don't like football very much."

Rainbow Dash snorted. "What kinda cowgirl doesn't like football?"

"Hi! I'm Pinkie Pie!"

Fluttershy stared in awe. The girl in front of her had on pink shoes, socks, skirt, shirt, earrings, headband, and backpack. Fluttershy instantly determined that this girl liked pink.

She had a cute, round face with dimples on her cheeks, and poofy, pink hair. Her sky blue eyes seemed to burst with joy, and they were locked directly on Fluttershy.

"Uh... hi?"

"I heard that there was a new girl going to our school, so I wanted to say hi, and I saw you were all alone and you looked so sad, so I wanted you to feel nice and welcomed so welcome to Canterlot High where everyone is nice and welcoming and I hope you make lots and lots of new friends!"

...Is that some kind of joke? Is this a pick-on-the-new-kid kind of thing?

Without warning, Pinkie Pie wrapped Fluttershy in a great big hug, earning a startled squeak.

"And I get to be your first," Pinkie Pie said, still smiling sweetly. Fluttershy froze, figuring it would be impolite to wriggle away. "Well, have fun on your first day at Canterlot, I hope I get to see you again soon!" Pinkie Pie finally released Fluttershy, then bounced happily away.

Fluttershy ogled at the pink bundle of energy. She was hoping that the students here wouldn't find a way to hate her, but she hadn’t counted on anyone wanting to be friends right out of the gate. What was even scarier was the fact that Pinkie Pie sounded completely genuine. Fluttershy just didn't know why.

"Oh, hey girls!"

Rainbow Dash looked over her shoulder to see a girl so layered in pink that she could give the boogeyman nightmares.

"Pinkamena?"

"You can just call me Pinkie Pie." She grinned. Pinkamena, or Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash supposed, looked a lot different than she did last year. She totally dropped the emo look.

"Cool. Well, what's up?"

"I just met the new girl," Pinkie Pie practically bobbed with excitement. "She seems nice. I hope we all get along!"

"What's her name?" Applejack asked.

Pinkie Pie raised a finger, then frowned. "Ugh, I didn't ask her name!" Pinkie Pie slapped her forehead. "Bad Pinkie, bad Pinkie!"

Rainbow Dash shrugged. "Whatever, we'll meet her later. It's a long-shot, but I hope she's athletic. And knows when to take one for the team."

"Y'all ain't guilt-trippin' me," Applejack chuckled. "Mah family needs me. Ain't no way around it."

Rainbow Dash blew a raspberry. "Whatever."

So far, no one seemed to view Fluttershy as a target. It didn't make sense. There had to be someone, at least one student that would have it out for Fluttershy. But they never came.

More than once, somebody would smile in her direction, nod at her, or even say hello. Fluttershy instinctively flinched at incoming hands, only to realize that they were only held up for Fluttershy to high-five or fist-bump, apparently a common form of greeting here.

It just didn't make sense! This wasn't supposed to be like playing dolls. This could not be a perfect school filled with perfect people. It's supposed to be... high school.

Rainbow Dash looked around. The cafeteria was busy as always, but not bad enough that she couldn't tell people apart. So far, she didn't see the new girl.

"Good afternoon, Rainbow Dash." Rarity greeted her primly as she sat down.

"Sup?" Rainbow Dash waved. "You meet the new girl?"

"Oh, yes," Rarity nodded. "We share the same third period, in biology. Such a timid little thing. I could barely get a word out of her."

A shy one, huh? Well, it was a long-shot. "Did you get her name?"

Rarity tapped her chin. "I did ask it, but she was so quiet, you'd think she was part mouse," Rarity contemplated for a moment. "I should definitely bring her home. Her outfit left much to be desired, and her hair, I could do so many things with that hair."

"You gonna turn her into your new little dress-up toy?" Rainbow Dash smirked.

"I need the practice," Rarity said defensively. "And she could stand to dress less conservatively than the librarian. On that matter, where in the heavens is she? I don't suppose you happened to see her enter?"

Rainbow Dash shook her head. "I guess she's off eating a packed lunch. Must not be a people person."

That's a lot of people.

Instead of having them divided up, it seemed as though all students ate lunch together. The lunchroom held close to over 300 students. Fluttershy thought better of eating today. Tomorrow, if it turned out that she wasn't being pranked, she would try to gather up enough nerve to go inside.

Tomorrow.

"Ah ain't gonna bite."

The girl in front of Fluttershy smiled. She wore jeans, a white button-up shirt, and a dusty brown cowboy hat. Her tanned face was dotted with freckles, bringing out the sharp green in her eyes.

Fluttershy hesitantly accepted her hand, getting her 17th handshake of the day. Her hand was calloused, but she took care to not squeeze Fluttershy's.

"Ah'm Applejack." She tipped her hat, which was a little too big for her.

Fluttershy wanted to escape back to her house now that school was over, but there was something comforting about Applejack. It was an openness that Fluttershy suspected she wouldn't find often.

"I-I'm Fluttershy."

"Howdy, Fluttershy," Applejack let Fluttershy's hand go. "Ah know you're new here, but Ah hope you're findin' everythin' just fine," Fluttershy nodded. "Well, that's good. Y'know, we got a football match tonight. If ya want to come, Ah can introduce ya to mah friends."

"Um, okay."

"Great! Ah'll see ya at around 7:00. Field's out behind the school."

Fluttershy stood still as Applejack walked away. She just technically agreed to go to this thing, didn't she? Fluttershy didn't particularly care for sports, but she didn’t want to make a bad impression. Okay, maybe it wouldn't be so bad. It couldn't hurt to go. Just, don't mess things up.

"11! Let's move it!"

Rainbow Dash sprinted onto the field as Spitfire shouted out her number. She promptly found her place in the huddle.

"Alright, Wondercolts," Spitfire began. "We're tied right now, but let's close it up. They're tired, so let's drive right through them. A fake 2 and 11 split down 0. On set. Ready?"

"Break!"

Rainbow Blaze slapped Rainbow on the shoulder pads. "Coming to you, make it count."

Rainbow Dash nodded, jogging to get onto the line.

"Down!"

The linemen took their stance. Rainbow Dash stared straight ahead. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the 2 and the 0. The guards tensed, ready to drive the defense in opposite directions. This was it. Let the fake in through the 2, and then Rainbow could take it straight down the 0. This was it.

"Set!"

The line collided instantly. While the Wondercolts pushed the Hornets apart, Spitfire faked the ball to Blaze. With two wasted trying to tackle him, Rainbow Dash quickly followed.

She powered past Spitfire, accepting the ball into her arms. She zig-zagged into the 0, and was practically free.

"Whoo! Get 'em good, Rainbow Dash!" Applejack hollered.

Fluttershy froze. It couldn't be.

Rainbow Dash smirked. This game was hers. She looked out into the crowd as she ran, and spotted her friends' usual spot. Pinkie was absent, as she was cheerleading. However, there was another girl in her place. Rainbow Dash frowned. It was the new girl.

But she swore she'd seen that hair before.

Holy shi-

Rainbow Dash was tackled hard to the ground shortly after the realization hit her.

Chapter 6 - Hello again

"It's not fair. I'll never get to see her again."

"You alive?"

Rainbow Blaze's voice stirred Rainbow Dash awake.

"Ugh... yeah." Rainbow tried sitting up, then immediately regretted it. She leaned over to vomit as her vision turned purple.

"Take it easy, dumbass," Rainbow Blaze patted Dash's knee. "You got obliterated."

Rainbow Dash groaned. "We're not losing, are we?"

Rainbow Blaze shook his head. "You got us far enough. Now just, lie down, okay? The nurse will be down here in a sec. Gotta make sure we didn't kill whatever brain cells you have left."

Rainbow Dash slumped back down on the grass beside the bench. Far enough? Well, it wasn't the triumphant run she was hoping for, but it was better than getting sacked. Regardless, something tickled the back of Rainbow's mind as Nurse Redheart knelt down beside her.

I saw a ghost today.

Fluttershy watched wide-eyed as the rainbow-haired girl was carried off the field on a stretcher. She held up her fist before being whisked away, spurring relieved applause from the crowd. Fluttershy tapped on Applejack's shoulder.

"Did you say her name was Rainbow Dash?" She had to shout to be heard.

Applejack nodded proudly. "Yeah, that's our girl. Hoo-wee, she took that hit like a champ! The fella musta been the size of a Coke machine on legs."

Rainbow Dash... no way. It was impossible. There was no way!

Fluttershy bit her lip. Could that be her Rainbow Dash? There was only one way to find out.

"Where did they take her?"

Rainbow Dash paced back and forth in the girls' locker room. She kept the ice pack pressed against her head as she did so. It wasn't her worst hit, but it was the first time Rainbow Dash had ever blacked out. She needed to make sure that never happened again.

Of course, it wouldn't have happened at all if she hadn’t decided to boast and look out into the audience like some kind of hotshot. But really, it had been that girl, hadn’t it? Why did she spark some sort of recognition?

"Rainbow Dash?"

That voice made the hairs on the back of Rainbow's neck stand up. It was smoother and more reserved, but Rainbow knew that voice, too. She turned to face the entrance. She could only stare in shock.

The girl was tall and clumsy-looking. Her shoulders were hunched slightly, as if constantly bowing to an unseen superior. Her soft pink hair was neatly brushed. But what got Rainbow was her steel-speckled teal eyes.

Those were definitely her eyes.

Fluttershy almost refused to believe it. This girl had the same multicolored hair, though it was more highlighted. She had the same posture, the same acutely defined face, the same build (though noticeably more toned). But what really got Fluttershy was her deep, rosy eyes.

Those were definitely her eyes.

"...Rainbow Dash?"

Rainbow Dash blinked. She opened her mouth, her tongue feeling swelled and dry.

"You... uh..." She scratched her head, eyes wandering. "Don't tell me, don't tell me... Shutter, Butterfl- no, no." Rainbow Dash groaned in aggravation. "Fluttershy!"

She snapped her fingers when it finally came to her. Rainbow inched forward. The girl watched in puzzlement as Rainbow gave her arm an experimental poke.

"Okay, you're real."

"Are you okay?" Fluttershy asked in concern.

Rainbow Dash giggled. "Am I- You're, you're," Rainbow Dash waved her hands at Fluttershy. "You're here!"

Fluttershy grimaced; she hoped Rainbow didn't have a concussion. "Um... yes."

Rainbow Dash's incredulous laughter grew louder. She ripped off her shoulder pads, and tossed them onto the floor. Fluttershy squeaked when Rainbow Dash threw her arms around her in a hug.

Fluttershy paused, reality still sinking in. She had been waiting expectantly for Rainbow Dash to shrug indifferently, or even say something with built-up venom in her voice. She never did. This was Rainbow Dash. Despite the short athlete being drenched in sweat, Fluttershy felt her arms moving to hug her back.

"Oh, this is simply so adorable!" Rarity gushed the next day at the lunch table. "What are the odds that our Rainbow's best friend would move here to Canterlot?"

Fluttershy smiled nervously. The odds were beyond comprehension.

"I know!" Pinkie Pie squealed. "Ooh, it just makes me so happy!"

Rainbow Dash grinned as she finished off her slice of pizza. "Dude, we have so much to catch up on. You would not believe everything."

Fluttershy's eyes darkened, though she kept her smile on. She hadn’t considered that Rainbow would want to hear about life back home. She had a feeling that anything Rainbow Dash told her would be more believable than what she had to say.

"-and so I made it on Junior Varsity. Spitfire and the rest of the seniors keep joking that I should be in the Special Olympics, but they know I'm good."

Fluttershy was content just listening to Rainbow Dash talk. Her voice was less squeaky now, and had more of a rasp to it, signaling that she had already entered puberty. But it was the most comforting sound Fluttershy had heard in years.

So far, she had learned that, among many other things, Rainbow Dash had gotten her driving learner's permit, was a Wondercolt all-star, learned how to cook more than just macaroni and cheese, and had even started learning to read music. This was so that she could eventually play on the guitar that she got on her birthday just this year.

Apparently, Rainbow Dash had been diagnosed with ADHD. She didn’t seem eager to linger on that topic, which Fluttershy respected.

"Anyway, I've been yammering forever. How about you?" Rainbow Dash asked curiously.

"Huh?"

"How was everything after I left?"

Fluttershy felt her innards clench. "Umm, it was... fine."

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow, chuckling. "Just fine? No news, nothing?"

Fluttershy swallowed. "Uh, I better get home. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow."

Fluttershy scurried down the street back to her house, leaving Rainbow Dash wondering if she had somehow said something to offend her.

Mr. and Mrs. Shy were both alerted to the front door opening. Mr. Shy set down his newspaper as he looked up. Fluttershy zipped past before either of them could ask how her second day went.

Fluttershy scampered up to her room, shutting the door safely behind her. She leaned against it, then slid down to the floor. She had been trying to come up with a story all day, and still had nothing.

Why not just tell her? Fluttershy tried reasoning with herself. It's done and over-with, so where's the harm in telling the truth?

Fluttershy gripped her head, moaning lightly. She just couldn't tell Rainbow Dash. She couldn't tell anyone.

Rainbow Dash downed a swig of her Powerade. Capping it, she bent down to begin stretching. Running was pretty much the only thing that she could do to settle her thoughts. And given everything that had happened since last night, Rainbow Dash had a lot to think about.

She sighed as she laced up her running shoes. That look Fluttershy gave her before she ran home...

She doesn't trust me. Rainbow Dash didn't know why, but for some reason, knowing that made her feel rather hurt. Rainbow Dash turned on her iPod, then fitted on the earbuds.

She was going to be running for a while.

Chapter 7 - A taste of something better

"Rainbow Dash? Are you awake?"

"...Yep."

"...I told you."

"Told me what?"

"Why I hate my singing. That you'd hate it."

Mr. Shy opened the front door. He was mildly surprised to see a young lady with vibrant multi-colored hair standing there.

"Hi. Is Fluttershy busy? I'm her friend, Rainbow Dash."

"Oh, no," Mr. Shy said in a puzzled but optimistic voice. "She's just finished dinner. Come inside, I'll go fetch her."

He stepped to the side to allow Rainbow Dash in. Shutting the door, he turned and ascended the stairs. Already having friends coming over to the house? Progress. He chuckled to himself. Also, why does the name Rainbow Dash ring a bell?

He knocked on Fluttershy's door. "Fluttershy? Sweetie?" A second later, the door cracked open.

"Yes?"

"You have a visitor." Mr. Shy smiled.

Befuddled, Fluttershy opened the door, and followed her father downstairs. She stopped halfway down the stairs when she saw who the visitor was.

"Sup?" Rainbow Dash jerked her chin in greeting.

"Uhh, hi?"

"I was wondering if you wanted to go hang out for a bit," Rainbow Dash shrugged. "I mean, it's been a while, so I thought it could just be you and me. You know, get to know each other more since... well, you know."

"Umm," Fluttershy looked over to her father for permission. He smiled, giving her a little nod. "Yes. Let me get my shoes really quick."

When the two girls left, Mr. Shy returned to the kitchen, still smiling. "You heard all that, right?"

"I did." His wife beamed.

Their little girl was outside with a friend.

"So, um, what do you want to talk about?" Fluttershy asked as they walked. Rainbow Dash held her arms behind her head.

"Well, I figured we should go back and forth, and just tell each other stuff, you know? A lot can change over time," When Rainbow Dash saw that Fluttershy was still confused, she explained. "I'll say a fact about myself, you say the same thing, but about you. Like, my favorite color is blue."

Favorite color? Why... why was that question so hard? Fluttershy tried picturing it. "Gr-green." Fluttershy mentally face-palmed. There was green grass right next to them.

"Okay," Rainbow Dash nodded. "Now, you choose something about you."

Fluttershy thought to herself for several moments. "My favorite place is the ocean."

Rainbow Dash whistled. "My favorite place is on the field. Pretty much any field. My favorite musician is..."

Fluttershy felt more... intact. What a blessing it was to have someone want to be with her. To be around her. Fluttershy remembered her short walks with Rainbow Dash on their way to their spot. But back then, she had let Rainbow do most of the talking.

But after she got home from their evening stroll, Fluttershy had learned more about herself, as well as her friend. Little, seemingly insignificant things. Like Rainbow Dash first watching a waterfall. Herself hand-feeding a deer. The way they each preferred their eggs cooked. When they pulled out their last baby teeth.

It was as if Fluttershy's life was a mess of puzzle pieces, and Rainbow Dash had come along and given her the missing pieces that allowed it to make sense. For the first time in however many years, Fluttershy fell into a pleasant, terrorless dream that night. Despite the refreshing change, Fluttershy had fantasized about that walk all the next day. Which was why she was confused that someone was trying to get her attention.

"Darling? Why haven't you been eating?"

Fluttershy snapped out of her trance. "Hmm?"

"Why don't you eat?" Rarity repeated. "I haven't seen you touch a scrap of food in the whole two weeks you've been here. It's as if you're a vampire!"

"Oh. I bring a sandwich to school and eat it before lunch." Fluttershy lied while Rarity did her hair. Rarity had aspirations of being a fashion designer in the future (though Fluttershy thought that hair fell under cosmetology). Fluttershy was nervous about changing her look, but Pinkie Pie and Applejack assured her that Rarity knew what she was doing.

"But do you eat enough?" Rarity asked in concern. "So many girls starve themselves to get the perfect figure. If that's your intent, you really mustn't. You still have plenty of growing to do before you judge your body in any way."

"I don't starve myself." Fluttershy whispered. Well, it technically wasn't a lie. She had grown accustomed to eating only one meal a day.

"Very well," Rarity said simply. "I apologize if I sounded like I was prying; you are so skinny, my dear. It'd be unhealthy for you to do such a thing."

Fluttershy didn't avoid eating to slim down. Honestly, impressing others with her looks would probably never appear on her list of priorities. The sharp hunger pains helped keep her mind distracted.

"Alright darling, what do you think?" Rarity passed Fluttershy a handheld mirror, indicating that her work was finished. Fluttershy carefully accepted it, then looked down at her reflection.

Her hair had been let down for Rarity. Fluttershy looked from several angles, but couldn't get a good view.

"Oh, silly me," Rarity giggled. "Let's get you in front of the full body mirror," Fluttershy, directed by Rarity, stood up and walked out of the bathroom. Rarity guided her in front of a large mirror on the wall. "Now what do you think?"

Fluttershy was too stunned to answer. Her hair was brushed and curled at the ends, and felt less brittle somehow. She wore a sleeveless spring green shirt, the smooth texture of which Fluttershy absolutely loved, and a matching skirt that went just below her knees.

She looked more open and confident, like she was a whole different person. It was more skin than Fluttershy normally would have been comfortable showing, but she looked and felt amazing.

"I used minimal makeup, as you requested," Rarity added. "Just a hint of blush."

"Thank you," Fluttershy smiled gratefully. "You did a lovely job."

"Oh, pish-posh," Rarity waved a hand. "I must say though, you are very lucky. Loads of girls would kill to have your natural beauty. I bet you could've had all those slick city boys wrapped around your finger."

Fluttershy shifted on her feet, eyes falling downward as she answered with less enthusiasm. "Oh. Yes. I am lucky for that, I guess."

Chapter 8 - Running from nothing

Fluttershy stopped. She looked... normal. Most days, her pale skin brought out the dark bags under her eyes, but she was surprised to see that they had gradually reduced to the point that she no longer needed to put any makeup on at all. She looked normal.

Pleased with this discovery, Fluttershy went about preparing for the day with a hint of a smile on her face. She took a warm shower, then dressed in the clothes she had laid out. She was nervous about wearing a tank top, but Rarity said it would look nice on her. Fluttershy examined herself in the mirror.

Today, she vowed, is the start of a new Fluttershy.

Rainbow Dash munched on a Pop-Tart while she glanced over her homework. She frowned at the equations on the sheet.

Seriously, screw graphing.

"Hey, you good to play again tonight?" Rainbow Blaze asked, lightly punching her shoulder. Rainbow Dash nodded.

"Yeah, I'm good. No flukes this time."

"Alright. See you later."

Rainbow Dash waved as her brother exited. Officially, he was going to lift weights in the school gym, but in reality, Blaze was probably just gonna fool around with some girl.

Rainbow Dash chewed the eraser on her pencil, tapping her foot rhythmically.

Whatever, I'll finish it later.

Rainbow Dash snatched the paper up, flinging crumbs as she stood up. She had somewhere to go before she headed to school.

Fluttershy shivered. It was a cool, slightly foggy morning, but the alien sensation was so exhilarating, Fluttershy didn't bother going back for a coat.

"Yo, Fluttershy!" Fluttershy turned to see Rainbow Dash jogging towards her. "Whoa, I like the new look. Cute."

Fluttershy blushed, lowering her head. "Um, thank you."

"So anyway, the Wondercolts got another game tonight. Wanna come watch?"

Fluttershy rubbed an arm. "I don't know, Rainbow."

Rainbow Dash's smile faltered. "Uh, I'll be playing. You can cheer me on."

I hate watching people get hurt. Why would I want to see you get hurt?

"I'll make sure you won't have to pay to get in, or anything." Rainbow Dash added with a hopeful tone.

Fluttershy gave a small sigh. Rainbow Dash really wanted her to be there. "I'll come watch."

"Awesome!" Rainbow Dash pumped a fist.

Awesome isn't the word I'd use for it.

"Hi!"

Fluttershy couldn't stop herself from jumping. The girls warned her that Pinkie Pie had a tendency to pop up from out of nowhere, but Fluttershy never saw it coming.

"Hello, Pinkie."

"Beautiful day, isn't it? Nice skirt! Ooh, whatcha got there?" Pinkie Pie pointed at the notebook Fluttershy kept tucked protectively under her arm.

"Um, it's for my sketches."

Pinkie's jaw dropped. "You can draw? Why didn't you tell me? Can I see them?"

Fluttershy subconsciously gripped the notebook tighter. "Um, I don't know. They're not very good."

"Pfft!" Pinkie Pie threw her hands up in a So what? gesture. "You don't have to be 'good' to have fun and be proud of yourself."

Fluttershy bit her lip.

"I Pinkie Promise that I won't hurt them."

How... curious that sounded. But in some strange way, Fluttershy felt reassured by the words. She could trust Pinkie. Hesitantly, she handed the notebook to Pinkie.

Pinkie flipped through the pages, careful not to bend or rip any of them. Fluttershy didn't think it was possible for Pinkie Pie to smile any wider, but she pulled it off.

"These are pretty good!" Pinkie Pie gushed. "My favorite is the mermaid with the anchor." She closed the notebook, offering it back to Fluttershy.

"Thank you." Fluttershy whispered as she accepted it.

"You know, I'm glad you're getting better," Pinkie Pie said as they continued their walk to class. "It's not good to think so lowly of yourself."

Huh?

"Huh?" Fluttershy echoed her thought.

Pinkie Pie shrugged. "I was just worried for you, because I know that look you had. But you're happier now, so yay!"

Fluttershy slowed. How could someone like Pinkie possibly know what Fluttershy felt? Everything about her screamed Hug me, I'm loveable!

"We all have to grow in weird ways, Fluttershy." Pinkie Pie smiled wryly, as if reading Fluttershy's thoughts. She then began skipping merrily to her class. Fluttershy stammered, still confused and worried.

"Wait, Pinkie. H-How did you know about... what I was going through?"

"Just a hunch," Pinkie lied through her teeth, having in fact already read two chapters ahead. "Good luck, Fluttershy!"

"Isn't she just so precious!" Rarity squeed at the sight of Fluttershy. Clearly, she was pleased to see that Fluttershy was taking her advice to heart. A confident body builds a confident heart.

Fluttershy blushed as she sat down. She stuttered a thanks, biting into the apple she bought to give her something to do.

"So Fluttershy," Applejack smiled mischievously. "What were them city boys like?"

Uh... excuse me?

"Oh yes," Rarity giggled. "I've been meaning to ask that. Please, you must entertain us, darling!"

Fluttershy swallowed. "The... the boys. Well, they're, um..."

How many black eyes?

"...Strong."

How many different ways did they make her cry?

"Smart."

How often would they gang up on her?

"Work well in teams."

How long did they hurt her, without anyone so much as batting an eye?

"And a little rebellious."

"I won't lie," Rarity blushed. "I wouldn't mind a bad boy sweeping me off my feet. Carry me off into the sunset on his motorcycle."

Applejack chuckled. "I'd like a strong, hardworking man. Someone to work with every day, who's really got a sweet caramel center."

Fluttershy brushed her hair back. I don't know if I would want anyone.

"Oh, how I so do wish I lived in the city." Rarity sighed dreamily.

No you don't.

"Spitfire, this is my friend Fluttershy."

Spitfire looked Fluttershy up and down. "The new girl? Why didn't you introduce me sooner? Welcome to Canterlot."

She brought up a fist, causing Fluttershy to involuntarily flinch. Spitfire chuckled.

"You pound it, girl," She shook her head at Rainbow Dash. "Come on, don't be so skittish. You act like everyone wants to hit you."

I thought you were.

Honestly, Fluttershy felt perfectly justified. She had grown quite fond of Rainbow Dash's friends, no longer only hanging out with them just because Rainbow Dash did. But being in a room full of athlete-types was a bit... much.

Rainbow Dash rested an arm across Fluttershy's shoulders. "Don't worry, they're not so bad." She whispered.

Fluttershy tried to calm her breath. Rainbow Dash wouldn't lie to her.

"Sorry. I-It's nice to meet all of you."

They all seemed to think that was satisfactory. Fluttershy exhaled in relief after Rainbow Dash led them away.

"Well, that's my team."

Fluttershy nodded. Seniors are big. Why couldn’t Rainbow Dash play more soccer? They don't tackle each other in soccer.

"Hey girls!" Pinkie Pie screamed as she barreled around the corner. Her eyes were wild with excitement. "Did you hear about the new student?"

Rainbow Dash raised her eyebrows. "Another new student?"

"Yes!"

Rainbow Dash laughed, then lightly slugged Fluttershy's shoulder. "What do you think about that? You already lost the title of 'New Kid'."

Fluttershy offered a miniscule shrug. "Well, I just hope they're nice."

Chapter 9 - Let your hopes go

One year later...

Fluttershy used to wonder how she could be so lucky. She had moved to a new school where she was reunited with her best friend, and had been welcomed with open arms by so many people who seemed to genuinely want to be her friends.

Of course it had to end. Nothing good ever lasts. How many fake smiles did Fluttershy greet each day, oblivious to the disdain for her that was obviously present? Everyone had their place back home, and Fluttershy's was at the bottom of the food chain. And this school was no different.

They showed their true colors, and the truth was that nobody here cared about Fluttershy. Nobody except Rainbow Dash. The same way it had always been.

Which was why Fluttershy wasn't surprised that no one came to her aid when Sunset Shimmer rammed into her, causing her to stumble and fall.

"Watch where you're walking, idiot."

Things had started falling apart shortly after she arrived. Tensions that Fluttershy hadn’t known existed rose. And soon, they all just... couldn't stand each other. Fluttershy wanted to blame it on Sunset. Her and the way everything she does is perfect. How mean she is to everyone whenever there's no one around to keep her in line. She came along, and she ruined everything for Fluttershy.

In all actuality, Fluttershy knew she was just using Sunset as a scapegoat. But the way Sunset treated her sure didn't make it any harder.

Rainbow Dash grunted as she kicked. The ball sailed across the field, straight into the goal. Not too shabby. Maybe she should play more soccer this year.

She jogged to retrieve her ball. Once it was scooped up safely in her hands, she turned back. Rainbow squinted when she saw someone standing beside the bleachers, watching her. Rainbow waved, then jogged over.

"Sup, Fluttershy?"

"Hi." Fluttershy greeted quietly. She rubbed her raw, skinned elbow, which did not escape Rainbow's notice.

"You okay? What happened?"

Fluttershy froze, then fidgeted. "It's nothing."

"No, it's not nothing," Rainbow Dash insisted. "What... it was her her, wasn't it?"

Fluttershy turned, covering her face. Rainbow Dash balled her fist. "I am gonna kill that bitch."

"Rainbow, please. It was an accident."

Rainbow Dash groaned. "Fluttershy, you can't just keep standing there and taking her bullshit. You gotta stick up for yourself."

"I know. I'm sorry."

Rainbow Dash's stony face eroded when she saw that Fluttershy was on the verge of tears. "Okay, okay. Don't-don't... look, let's just get home, okay?"

Shaking inside and out, Fluttershy accepted Rainbow Dash's hand. Rainbow Dash hugged her, trying as hard as she could to be comforting.

Way to go, Fluttershy. Way to show off how weak and helpless you are, Fluttershy mentally wagged a finger at herself. But it probably didn't matter. Rainbow Dash already knew that. And she's going to become tired of holding your hand through everything, eventually.

Fluttershy watched the TV screen with tired eyes. Rainbow Dash had asked if she wanted to go for a hike, or walk down the nature trail. She knew Fluttershy loved those. But Fluttershy declined, feeling nothing but a vague disinterest. It was eerily familiar.

So, Rainbow asked if she just wanted to hang out for the night. Desperately needing company, Fluttershy nodded thoughtlessly. It was only after Rainbow Dash texted her parents that she was spending the night did Fluttershy remember that today was Rainbow's leg day.

Of course, Rainbow didn't say anything. Fluttershy wished she would.

Get angry. Yell at me. I just ruined your workout.

She never did. Somehow that felt even worse.

Rainbow Dash's knee kept bobbing up and down.

Should I do it?

Rainbow looked over at Fluttershy. She looked sad. Why did she always have to look sad? Rainbow felt so helpless; she was tired of seeing Fluttershy like this, and always having words fail her whenever she tried to ask what was wrong.

Rainbow sighed. It had gotten even harder lately, because of all these weird feelings. Like, just wanting to be around Fluttershy more. Wanting to touch her, even if that meant just brushing arms.

Fluttershy had always been pretty cute, that never changed. And Rainbow Dash had been considering her own preferences for a couple years, now. And yes, she decided that she would be open to dating whoever clicked with her.

But... why Fluttershy? Okay, besides being adorable as hell. She hated sports. She hated all of Rainbow's action and gory movies. She could never cheer loud enough for Rainbow, she was insanely introverted, and they had almost nothing in common.

But, she was still Rainbow's best friend, wasn't she? They almost always got along, they were always there for each other, and no amount of differences ever changed that. Rainbow Dash cared about her. She hoped Fluttershy cared about her just as much.

Mrs. Shy inserted the key into the post office box. She twisted, and opened it up. Inside she found a few letters and Zephyr's magazine. It puzzled her that Zephyr Breeze wanted a subscription to this, but if he saw a future in cosmetics, they were certainly happy to allow him it.

Mrs. Shy looked over the letters, checking to see that they didn't accidentally receive anyone else's. She paused when she got to the last letter.

A judicial summons? It's... to our address, and our name. Who is it for?

Mrs. Shy placed the rest of the mail in her purse, and pulled out her letter opener. She slit the envelope open, and pulled out the neatly folded piece of paper inside. She unfolded it, then donned her reading glasses.

As she mouthed the words, her expression slowly shifted into that of disbelief. This... this couldn't be true.

"Oh... Oh my goodness."

"And the next time I catch you rooting through my stuff, it's gonna be an atomic wedgie!" Rainbow Dash growled as Zephyr skittered out of the room. She huffed, sitting back down next to Fluttershy. "Sorry. Honestly, how do you put up with him?"

Fluttershy only shrugged.

Rainbow Dash exhaled. They had been watching TV for several hours. Now that the creep skedaddled, she could give it a try. With just a moment's hesitation, Rainbow Dash brought her arm up, and laid it across Fluttershy's shoulders.

It bought her no reaction, so... cha-ching? Well... whatever. Next step.

Rainbow Dash scooted closer. Fluttershy settled closer to Rainbow Dash. Progress! Okay, now Rainbow Dash was actually starting to feel a little nervous.

Should I really do it?

She pursed her lips. No guts, no glory.

Fluttershy sighed. This felt... good. Rainbow Dash always had that effect. The way Rainbow Dash's fingers massaged the side of her head was almost enough to make Fluttershy fall asleep right next to her.

"Fluttershy?" Fluttershy almost didn't recognize Rainbow's voice, she spoke so softly.

She turned to look at her. Rainbow looked down at her, her face turning pinkish. Her eyes had that jolting movement that she got whenever she was concentrating.

"Yes?"

Just do it.

Rainbow Dash was kissing her.

Fluttershy didn't dare move. The feeling of lips against hers was one that brought scorching memories, still fresh in her mind. She held her breath. Rainbow Dash was kissing her.

Oh no.

Rainbow Dash opened her eyes as she inched back. Okay, too eager, too stiff, and a bit too high. She could definitely work on her kissing before anyone could call it romantic. Rainbow Dash froze, the thought vanishing the moment she saw the look on Fluttershy's face, and it was immediately replaced.

Oh, shit, I shouldn't have done that.

Chapter 10 - Sleepwalking

I want to go.

It's too late. You agreed. You swore to tell the truth.

What will my mom and dad think?

They already know. What difference will it make?

I... I don't think I can do this. I want this to be over!

Too late. This won't just end. You want it to be over? Just answer the question. Yes, or no?

Rainbow Dash thought of a million different things she could say, each one less convincing than the last. She could say, "Gotcha!" or, "Did I scare you?"

But the one thing Rainbow found herself stammering was, "Wow, I'm not that bad a kisser, am I?"

Fluttershy shoved Rainbow off with a surprising amount of force. Rainbow Dash oofed as the wind was knocked out of her. Fluttershy shot up, speeding away and into the bathroom.

"Wait!" Rainbow Dash coughed as the door slammed shut. She stumbled to her feet, then over to the door. "Fluttershy," She gave it a knock. "I'm sorry!"

"I'm sorry"? Are you for real? How lame is that?

Rainbow Dash tried opening the door, but it was locked. "Fluttershy, please! I was just being stupid!"

Rainbow Dash stopped when she heard a sound. Anxiously, she pressed her ear against the door. Her stomach churned when she heard quiet sobbing on the other side.

I wish... I wish a lot of things. I wish I weren't here right now. I didn't want to see him. I thought that I would never see him again. I don't know who told them about me, but they found me. I have to help to make sure he answers for what he's done.

But when I walked in and sat down, he looked right at me. He looked so different. He was skinnier. His eyes were sunken, and his hair thin. I... I think he had been on drugs. I wanted to run away. Run, like every time that he came after me.

He looks sorry.

No! He's not sorry he did it. He's sorry he got caught. He did it before, he's done it now, he'll do it again. He is done getting away.

"Stupid, stupid, stupid!" Rainbow Dash pounded her head with her fist for each stupid. "What the hell is wrong with me? Why the hell wouldn't I ask her, oh, I don't know, if she even likes girls?!"

Rainbow Dash continued her tangent, steaming in the cold night air. When it became clear that Fluttershy would open the door for nothing, Rainbow Dash decided that all she could do was give her space. Which gave Rainbow the perfect opportunity to use as many expletives as she desired.

"You know how sensitive she is. Now she's gonna steer clear of me forever!" Rainbow Dash groaned loudly.

I made her cry. Rainbow Dash felt as if she had just been stabbed. She must hate me, now.

Whatjusthappenedwhatjusthappenedwhatjusthappened-

Fluttershy gripped her head. She had been sitting next to Rainbow Dash, okay, okay. Rainbow Dash... what did Rainbow Dash do?

Fluttershy didn't understand. Rainbow Dash kissed her. Fluttershy burned with shame at the mere thought. But... it was Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy fought not to vomit.

There hadn’t been the sensation of hands striking her, or pinning her down. Rainbow Dash didn't call her any derogatory names. She didn't do any of the horrible things playing in Fluttershy's mind. So why was Fluttershy scared of Rainbow in that moment?

She... she only kissed her. But why?

I described how it happened as best as I could, as much as I would like to sink away from existence. I remember it vividly. A double-edged sword, today. I saw the other girls. Two of them, at least. One wanted to remain anonymous. Maybe she had the right idea. I was shocked to learn that one of them had been his girlfriend. Perhaps I shouldn't have been.

My parents watched me. Everyone watched me, but no one could mirror the absolute terror on their faces as I described how it happened in intricate detail. Whenever I choked up, the prosecutor would continue, and ask me if it was accurate.

Every time she asked for clarification, I turned redder, but I managed to get out a raspy "Yes," or "No". All the while his face grew more and more somber.

Oh, he doesn't want to be here? Well, neither do I. He has no one to blame but himself.

Rainbow Dash paced back and forth.

I can’t just leave her like that.

Rainbow Dash sighed heavily, then knocked on the door. Zephyr opened it a minute later.

"Back to see me so soon?"

"Can it," Rainbow barged past him. "I have to talk to Fluttershy."

She raced over to Fluttershy's room. The door was shut. Rainbow slowly cracked it open.

"Fluttershy?"

Rainbow Dash poked her head in. She was there, sitting on her bed. Rainbow Dash grimaced, not anticipating the upcoming conversation (even if she had to do all the talking).

"Fluttershy," Rainbow Dash repeated, shutting the door behind her. "Are... are you okay?"

Of course she isn't, dumbass.

Rainbow Dash slowly approached Fluttershy; she didn't move a muscle.

"Hey. Look Fluttershy, about what I did- that was just dumb of me. We don’t have to be like that," Rainbow Dash tried amending. She hesitated when Fluttershy didn't respond. "We can still be friends. Right?"

Rainbow reached to place a hand on Fluttershy's shoulder, but it stopped just inches away. It felt like something was repelling it away. Fluttershy stiffly turned to face her, but swiftly shrank back.

She had never imagined feeling anyone's lips willfully meeting hers, but now that Rainbow- all that she could think about-

Fluttershy's eyes began to water again. A panicked Rainbow Dash grabbed her in a hug. Fluttershy instinctively locked up.

But I know these hands. They haven't hurt me, have they?

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry." Fluttershy cried, letting Rainbow Dash hold her as an avalanche of forgotten pain came crashing back down.

Incapacitation. Deterrence. Rehabilitation. Retribution. That's how justice is supposed to work. Then why do I feel like the criminal?

I'm not being unfair, or cruel. I'm ensuring he can't.

It was over three years ago. He could change.

He had multiple chances.

He said he's sorry!

Funny, I don't remember him apologizing after he used me like a toy. After he broke me.

I'm... I'm not scared of him anymore.

Then do it. Answer the question.

Mr. and Mrs. Shy watched with pained, confused expressions as their daughter slept together with her friend. They had fallen asleep embracing each other.

It didn't make sense. If this letter was correct, then that meant that Fluttershy, their precious little girl...

Mrs. Shy whispered what they were both thinking. "What do we do?"

It won't just end if I say yes or no. They'll ask questions. Why wouldn't I tell my parents, or the school? Why wouldn't I call the police? What would I have to be afraid of?

Everything. Won't they understand that I just couldn't?

No. They won't. The others already testified. They have DNA evidence. They have his confession. He's being tried as an adult. He is going down for this, with or without your cooperation. Why won't you answer the question already?

It feels wrong! Immoral! It's not kind.

No. It's not. It's what he deserves. Now for once, think of someone besides yourself, and answer the question. They are waiting on you. It's an easy question, just break it down.

Did Grey Skies rape me?

It's not your fault. No more running.

I reached up to feel the cold butterfly pin in my hair. It hadn't seen daylight in years.

"...Yes."

Rainbow Dash kicked morosely at pebbles as she walked. She took this route every day for over a week. She brightened up when she saw that Fluttershy's family car was back in its driveway. She sped up to the front door, and rapidly tapped on it. A few moments later, it opened.

"Fluttershy!" Rainbow Dash hugged her friend tightly. "Oh my god, everyone thought you were accused of murder, or something!"

"I-I wasn't, Rainbow," Fluttershy whispered. She weakly hugged Rainbow back. "Um, can we go for a walk?"

Rainbow Dash nodded. "Yeah, yeah absolutely. Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, but there's something I need to tell you," Fluttershy swallowed. "Well, there's a lot I have to tell you, actually."

Chapter 11 - The feeling of letting go

Silent night,
Starry night,
Leaves are still,
And the moon's in sight,
Dreams are born as their eyes fall closed,
Tomorrow's gift is that nobody knows,
Sleep in beautiful peace...

Two years later, shortly after the events of Rainbow Rocks...

Fluttershy smiled at the wind washing over her face from the rolled down car window. She kept her hair in a ponytail to keep it from flying wildly. Rainbow Dash tapped her fingers on the steering wheel while she drove.

"You know, you still haven't told me where we're going," Fluttershy casually brought up.

Rainbow Dash smirked. "You'll see."

Fluttershy rolled her eyes lightly, still smiling. If Rainbow wanted to be all coy and cryptic, let her. They drove for a few hours out of town. Wherever Rainbow Dash had in mind, it must have been special.

Rainbow Dash flashed Fluttershy cheeky looks every now and then. She mentally patted herself on the back. It was that good. She knew Fluttershy would love it.

Fluttershy pondered endlessly, wondering what Rainbow Dash could possibly have up her sleeve. It did not help when Rainbow Dash drew out a blindfold when they stopped for gas.

"Okay," Fluttershy laughed, holding up a hand. "What are you doing?"

"It's a secret," Rainbow Dash giggled deviously. "Come on, you can trust me."

Fluttershy relented when Rainbow gave her the puppy eyes. "Oh, fine." She stuck out her tongue as Rainbow pumped her fist in victory. With the dark cloth secured over her eyes, Fluttershy was completely oblivious as to where she was being taken. Only another short, ten minute drive later, the car stopped.

She heard Rainbow's door open and shut. Seconds later, hers was opened, and Rainbow Dash was undoing her seatbelt. Fluttershy smelled a splash of salt in the fresh air. There was a slight roaring sound in the distance.

Are we...

Rainbow Dash helped Fluttershy up, then shut the door. Fluttershy allowed Rainbow Dash to guide her movements. They walked down a plain and level street, where the cool breeze passed right through them. They stopped when Fluttershy's hands met a rocky barrier; there was some stone ridge running adjacent to the sidewalk they were on.

"Okay," Fluttershy could hear the grin on Rainbow's face. "What do you think?"

Fluttershy blinked a couple times as the blindfold was slipped off. Fluttershy let out an audible gasp. The cliffside they stood on overlooked a bay offering a wide view of the sparkling blue ocean.

Fluttershy's trembling fingers grasped the ridge along the walkway, and she felt Rainbow's hands wrapped securely around her waist as she peered down. Fluttershy gave off an excited shudder as she watched the waves below crash into the rocks at the bottom.

She hadn’t been to the ocean since she was a little girl.

"Rainbow Dash..."

Rainbow shrugged, hugging her from behind. "I remember you said that your favorite place is the ocean. I wanted to make up for being such a... pain, during the Battle of the Bands, and since we aren't that far away, I figured... you know."

Fluttershy smiled, wiping quickly at her eyes. "It's amazing."

"Well, most of my ideas are."

Rainbow Dash watched Fluttershy as she walked on the beach. Her shoes had been removed, allowing her to dig her toes into the soft, damp sand. Fluttershy inhaled deeply, grateful for the oceanic mist that fought back the heat of the sun on her skin.

Fluttershy looked over her shoulder at Rainbow Dash. "Coming?"

Rainbow Dash paused. "Me?" Fluttershy nodded. "Oh, no. Not a big fan of sand. It's all coarse, and rough, and irritating. And it gets everyw-" Rainbow Dash bit her tongue at the beckoning look on Fluttershy's face. "Uh, I mean yay, sand! Squishy."

Rainbow Dash trotted to catch up to Fluttershy. She linked hands with Rainbow Dash as the pair walked slowly.

"Thank you," Fluttershy whispered. "This is just so perfect... I don't think I have words for it."

Rainbow Dash coughed. "Well, uh... I'm glad you're happy."

Fluttershy smiled.

I suppose yes, I am happy, aren't I?

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had come a long way together, and they still had a long way to go. Fluttershy knew that it wouldn't always be easy. They would fight. They would stumble. Things would get scary.

Fluttershy had a feeling that they were ready for anything.

Fluttershy pecked Rainbow on the cheek, causing her to blush. Now having Rainbow's attention, she ventured a little further. Rainbow grinned at Fluttershy's warm lips meeting hers. The sweet taste of Fluttershy's strawberry lip balm washed over the tip of Rainbow's tongue.

Fluttershy was glad to have Rainbow Dash with her. She was more than just a friend when Fluttershy needed one. She was more than someone to hold her and kiss her and tell her how important she was.

Rainbow Dash was so, so, so much more than that.

Fluttershy leaned her head against Rainbow's shoulder. They both sat on the end of the dock, their feet dangling just above the water's surface. Occasionally, they would pop a sea salt taffy into their mouths, savoring the various berry flavoring as they chewed.

It was perfect.

Fluttershy felt a small drip on her head. She looked up. The sky overhead had been blanketed with dreary rainclouds. The sudden greying also caught Rainbow's notice. She sighed as the dripping began to increase.

"Dammit."

Fluttershy gave her a consoling kiss on the neck. "Not even you can control the weather, Rainbow Dash."

The girls stood up, ready to head home before the oncoming downpour had the chance to soak them. Fluttershy stopped in her tracks as she noticed something from the corner of her eye.

From the last crack of blue sky came a thin ray of sunlight. It shone down on the earth, unwavering in the face of the storm. Fluttershy stared at it, ignoring the rain that drenched her clothes.

"Hey, you coming?" Rainbow Dash shouted from the harbor. "What's the matter?"

Fluttershy smiled slowly. The faded stream of color fell down like snow over the water. It was such a stark contrast to the dull world around it, that Fluttershy couldn't help but laugh.