She Still Hurts (Cancelled)by FluskieChaptersChapter 1: The TruthChapter 2: A CurePrologueChapter 1: The TruthMonths later after Princess Luna and Flusk first met.. "I..Told you..I'm fine!" "Yeah, collapsing on a hill out of nowhere is 'fine'. Whatever you say, Luna." Flusk was currently galloping through a tall field of grass with a particularly heavy alicorn on her back. They weren't too far from Canterlot Castle and would reach it in a few minutes where Flusk could safely rest her on a bed without having to strain her back anymore. She could see the castle right before her as relief began to wash over her and her sore back. "You there! What are you doing with the princess?" A guard shouted at the entrance, raising his spear at Flusk. "Important and life-threatening, let me through please!" "D-Don't tell him that..H-He'll actually call..A..D-Doctor..I don't need..A doctor!" Luna weakly said. "Is the princess hurt?" "I'm not sure. She just collapsed while we were out having a picnic. She sounds like she's struggling though." Flusk explained. "Alright, I'll call a doctor to give her a check-up. Please take the princess to her room and rest her there for now." "Yes, sir!" Luna only groaned on Flusk's back as she took her into the castle and to her bedroom. While escorting her there, she got some very odd glances from other ponies who worked in the castle such as maids, cooks, and even some tourists who were visiting. A few opened their mouths to ask questions but instantly stopped as if the ability to speak was no longer an option and they physically couldn't. It basically looked like Flusk was kidnapping Luna into her own home to put it simply. But what was the problem with that? Was it even considered kidnapping if you were 'kidnapping' them into their own home? "O-Oh my goodness! U-Um, excuse me! What are you doing with Princess Luna, miss?" A nervous voice asked behind her. Flusk looked over her shoulder to see a white mare with a dark brown mane hurrying behind her to match her pace. She looked bewildered to see Luna on her back like this. And then, Flusk had a sudden realization this pony was Raven Inkwell. To put it shortly, she did basically all the paperwork for Luna's sister and was usually seen at her side discussing 'boring topics'. She had seen her before when visiting the castle to see Luna. She looked a little more frazzled today though. Flusk sighed in annoyance. "I'm not kidnapping her, I'm taking her to her room!" "But she has guards here to assist her if she needs to be carried." "I don't CARE! Just let me do what I need to do!" Raven seemed taken aback as she stopped following Flusk, watching her disappear around the corner silently to Luna's chambers. Well, her job wasn't to tend to Princess Luna. Her job was to tend to Princess Celestia. As selfish of a thought that was, nowhere did it say she had to care for the both of them. Raven simply brushed a strand of mane out of her face and turned away, trotting back where she came from. If she was questioned, she'd only answer she had seen nothing or had no clue what was going on. *** "There, are you comfy?" "Does it r-really..M-Matter?" "Of course it does, you're sick." "I'm not sick, Flusk! Y-You called a-a doctor for..N-No reason! W-What's a d-doctor g-going..T-To do for me?" Flusk was just fluffing up Luna's pillows when she heard a knock on the door. She trotted over to it and opened it. Outside was a unicorn stallion studying a clipboard who gave a simple nod to Flusk and invited himself in. She shut the door behind him, a little confused by the silent greeting but going with it as she joined him beside Luna's bed. "Hm..From the information that was gathered by this young mare who brought you in, you collapsed on a hill and are..'Struggling'? Do you have breathing problems and weakness?" The doctor asked, adjusting his glasses and staring for once elsewhere from his clipboard. "D-Don't even b-bother..Y-You won't be able..T-To diagnose me. I-I've been t-trying to say that..B-But nopony listens.." "Hmm, stuttering and pauses between speech." The doctor muttered, writing something down on the clipboard. "Has this happened before?" "ENOUGH!" A strong wind exploded from Luna which blew both Flusk and the doctor back. The doctor shielded his face with his arm as he fought with the wind to stay firmly standing on the ground. Meanwhile, Flusk had gone flying and smacked her back into the wall, releasing a groan of pain from her as she crumpled to the ground. The winds abruptly stopped as the doctor regained his composure. “F-Flusk? A-are you..O-Okay?” Luna asked, staring worriedly at Flusk on the floor. The doctor rushed to Flusk as soon as he had recovered from the harsh winds. He gently placed a hoof on her side. "Miss? Miss, are you there?" Her eyes suddenly fluttered open, looking to the doctor and then to the bed in front of her. "H-Huh?..Yeah..I'm okay." "Are you sure? You're not hurt or anything?" "Yeah, I'm okay." "Alright." The doctor removed his hoof, allowing the mare to get up on to her hooves again. She brushed herself off and turned her gaze to Luna who looked rather relieved to see she was okay. Flusk could only frown at her, quickly turning her attention to a window in the room which was letting a bit of sunlight in. A tiny bird was sitting on the window sill flapping its wings a little and pecking on the ledge it stood on minding its own business. She..She couldn't look at Luna right now. "Miss, I don't mean to offend but maybe perhaps it would be best if you left for now. I'll deal with the princess for now." The doctor said. "Fine.." Flusk lowered her head and folded her ears, trotting out of the bedroom. All she could feel was sadness and a little bit of betrayal. All she wanted to do was help..But..Luna hurt her for trying. Even though she couldn't see behind her, she knew Luna was watching and that Luna was definitely feeling pretty bad right now..Sort of how Flusk wanted her to feel. *** Flusk leaned over a balcony railing with her head on her hooves. She was on one of the towers that the sisters used to stand and raise the sun and moon. She didn’t know which one but she didn’t really care of course. Behind her was a large blue telescope. Yeah, this was Luna’s tower...Hopefully, she didn’t find her here. A soft breeze swept by and carried Flusk’s mane with it, sending a bit of a chill down her back. She only sighed as she was lost in thought, thinking on why Luna would get mad at her for only trying to help. Never mind that, why hurt her? She didn’t care if it was just some overreaction, it hurt! Flusk sniffled a little as she noticed tears started to fall down her cheeks. Great, just great. She definitely needed somepony to see her crying. NOT! She took a few deep breaths as she tried to wipe a few tears away with her hooves. It didn’t really work though since she kept dwelling on the thought, thinking that Luna really wanted to hurt her and didn’t appreciate her. What happened to their friendship? What happened to the kind-hearted pony she met in Sugar Cube Corner a few months ago? More tears just fell from her eyes and she swore under her breath, trying to get her emotions in order. “Flusk?..” “AH! Oh..” From the corner of her eyes, she saw a large dark blue figure standing in the entryway to the balcony. She could already tell it was Luna by the flowing blue blur attached to the figure and the sound of her voice. She furiously rubbed at her eyes and her cheeks to get rid of any tears so she wouldn’t see her crying as she turned around, putting on a fake smile. “Hey, Luna. I see your check-up is over, how’d it go?” Flusk said, putting on a cheerful tone. “He didn’t find anything like I knew he wouldn’t.” Luna replied, sounding a little disappointed. “Really? That’s strange. Well, you’re not stuttering anymore or struggling to walk so that’s a good sign!” “Flusk, I know you were crying.” Flusk paused, her mouth sort of hanging open. She didn’t know what to say or what to think. Was she supposed to say something or think something? She didn’t want Luna to worry about her. Luna’s health was the most important right now. “W-What? What are you talking about? I was just-“ “You were. It doesn’t take a genius to see that. I should know, I use to be quite a crybaby in the past.” Flusk sighed. “It doesn’t matter right now, I want to know that you’re okay. You seem to know more about the reason you’re struggling and weak more than a doctor and everyoony else does.” “I do, that’s why I told you not to call a doctor.” “Well, I thought you were just being stubborn like always!” Luna’s face changed to one of concern as she saw Flusk starting to cry again. Though, Flusk looked more angry than sad. “You never tell anypony about how you’re feeling or if you’re hurt or anything! You just keep it all inside and expect to come out alright. I was playing guessing games with you the first time we met! I really thought I was getting somewhere with you after a while of being friends but I guess not. You’ll never let me in or let me help you!” “Maybe because I don’t want to hurt you!” “You already have!” There was a sudden silence as Flusk lowered her head, sort of covering her face with her short blue mane. She couldn’t look Luna in the eyes right now..She just couldn’t. “Fine, I’ll tell you what’s wrong with me. Maybe then if you know, it’ll give you time to run.” Luna said. “Time..To run?” Flusk asked, raising her head. Luna patted the ground in front of her, now seated as Flusk sat down. “You’ve heard about the story of Nightmare Moon, right?” “Of course. I’d assume everpony has heard it. It was a story usually told to the little ones. Although, it’s odd to have a story based off you, right?” “You knew Nightmare Moon was me?” Luna’s eyes widened. “Really. Do you really think that everypony wouldn’t know by now? I knew before it was confirmed that Nightmare Moon was you. It’s pretty obvious really. Besides, at Summer Sun Celebrations, your sister speaks of you returning from banishment.” “Oh, right,” Luna rubbed the back of her neck nervously. “Well, like the newly updated story goes, the Element’s of Harmony returned me back to my original self and that was it which isn’t correct.” Luna suddenly stood up, untucking her alicorn wing from her side and spreading it out of the way. Her cutie mark was now in full view. A crescent moon surrounded by splotches of what looked like black paint on her flank. They definitely weren’t paint splatters though. “It’s easy for these to blend in with my cutie mark and look like they’re apart of it,” Luna said, pointing at the little splotches. “But they aren’t. These are the aftermath of being controlled for a thousand years. They are permanently there and physically unremovable. They are also a symbol that her power still lives inside me. The elements weren’t able to remove everything therefore I still have a chance of becoming Nightmare again.” “What, but..Huh?” “This is why doctors can’t help me because it’s not a health issue. It’s a magic issue that can’t be helped. This is why I have been struggling and weak. It takes up my strength to keep myself from being controlled by the power that so badly wants to come out. But do not fear, once I feel that the power is too much, I will banish myself to the moon this time to keep everypony safe.” “WHAT?!” Flusk screamed. “It might seem unfair but it’s me over hundreds of ponies. It would be utterly selfish to leave them all in the way of harm. I would never do that.” “I get it but..Banishing yourself to the moon is too extreme! What would your sister think? I-I..What about me?” “My sister would accept it in a certain amount of time. She had to the first time anyways. And you..You would too. Since you’re a mortal, you wouldn’t ever get to see the day I returned from Nightmare Moon. You would be far dead by then.” Flusk softly blinked as she felt tears starting to form in her eyes when she suddenly shook them off. “No! You know what, I won’t let you do that. I’m going to find something that will help you and something that will banish her magic. I will not let you send yourself to the moon!” “Flusk, it doesn’t ma-“ But she was already gone. Her soft galloping was heard down the hallway until it vanished. Chapter 2: A Cure“Hi, do you perhaps own anything on dispelling dark magic of any kind?” “I don’t think so. You can always check the magic section and see.” *** “Hello, do you know of any known artifacts that can dispel dark magic?” “Sorry dearie, even if we had any in our possession I wouldn’t be allowed to give it to you. The only ones I can think of are the Elements of Harmony and those belong to Princess Twilight Sparkle.” *** “Hello, I was wondering if maybe you had any potion of some type that had the ability to dispel dark magic?” “I am afraid not, what an interesting item to be sought.” *** There was a loud rumble of thunder and a bright flash of lightning as Flusk let herself into the castle out of the heavy rain. While she was out in Ponyville and elsewhere looking for something to help Princess Luna, it seemed the pegasi had decided it was time for a heavy thunderstorm and had surrounded both Canterlot and Ponyville in a wall of angry dark clouds. She had no choice but to return to the castle, unfortunately. It wasn’t like she was making any progress however anyways. Nopony seemed to have any answers for her on how to help Luna out. She was wearing a long cloak that was now soaking wet and dripping water on to the carpet. She dried her hooves and levitated the cloak off herself, ringing out the water out of it. It wasn’t before long though she noticed Celestia’s assistant galloping over to help her. She wasn’t doing it to actually be kind to Flusk though. She was more concerned about the mess of water Flusk was making inside. “Miss, please don’t come inside the castle soaking wet next time, okay?” Raven said as she grabbed her cloak and began drying it with a spell that conjured some gusts of wind. “Our maids work very hard to keep the castle in tip-top shape. Besides, we wouldn’t want the princesses to have a reputation for a messy castle. It would def-..” And that was when Flusk tuned out. That mare would keep going for hours so there was no point in listening. Flusk calmly walked around the castle as she heard the occasional rumble of thunder and a lightning strike shooting through the sky at a nearby window. She was currently looking for Luna but seem to have no luck in finding her in any of the public rooms of the castle. Perhaps trying her bedroom would be best? She made her way to her room’s door and knocked on it before backing away and waiting a few moments for a response. She stared at the painted crescent moon on her door for a few minutes before knocking again. “Luna? Are you in there?” Flusk asked. She waited again and got no response. Weird..She checked everywhere in the castle for her. Even the throne room which she knew Luna wouldn’t exactly wander around there herself. Luna had once told her that part of the castle was one she stayed away from because of the many stained glass windows that lined the hall up to the throne. They were beautiful works of art but they also held history in them that Luna didn’t want to relive again such as the one where the Mane Six used the elements on Nightmare Moon to turn her back to normal. Well, one would think that would be a happy memory, Luna only said it had reminded her of the anger and betrayal she felt from her sister for a thousand years. “Luna, you better not be ignoring me again. I checked everywhere for you. You simply can’t be anywhere else. Answer me!” Nothing.. “Alright, I’m coming in if you don’t at least give me a sign you’re in there!” And once again, nothing. “Okay, I’m coming in whether you like it or not.” Flusk turned the knob on the door which surprisingly unlocked. She expected the door to be locked. She pushed the door aside and trotted in to see Luna right there lying on her bed turned towards the wall. She couldn’t see her face but at least she knew where she was. “Wow, you didn’t even bother to answer me? Thanks for ignoring me.” Flusk said, rather annoyed. Luna remained silent and staring at the wall. Flusk could hear heavy breathing and noticed her body shivering a little. What was going on? “Luna? Are you okay?” Luna said nothing. Flusk felt a bad feeling in her gut as she approached Luna. She placed her hoof on her shoulder, feeling an immediate cold sensation. She was as cold as ice! She shivered against her hoof unmoving from her spot. “Woah, you’re freezing! What’s got into you? Why won’t you answer me?” “T-Tia..I-I’m..S-So sorry..” She heard Luna mutter under her breath. She brought her hoof under Luna’s chin, it too feeling as cold as ice. She slowly forced it towards her, forcing Luna to turn her face towards Flusk. When she finally got a good look at her she saw tear stains from her eyes down to her cheeks. Her mouth hung open as she breathed heavily, muttering things Flusk couldn’t understand. Her eyes were shut tightly and she almost felt like she was going to lose her balance and fall right on to Flusk. “Luna..Luna, wake up.” Flusk placed her hooves to her cheeks now, holding her firmly. She spoke close to her face. “Luna, you have to wake up. It’s just a dream. Whatever you’re doing right now needs to stop, you need to wake up!” “T-Tia..B-But..” “Your sister is fine in the real world. The one you’re seeing is a fake. If you wake up she’ll be fine.” “I-I didn’t mean..T-To hurt her..” “LUNA!” “AH!” Luna jumped, her eyes springing open as she panted, her eyes darting around the room and taking in her surroundings before falling on to Flusk in front of her. “F-Flusk?..What are you doing here?” “I was looking for you and found you in here but you weren’t answering.” “Oh..Right.” Luna looked down to the ground, moving backward a tiny bit. “Luna, you have to tell your sister what’s been going on with you. This is ridiculous and scary.” “No! I can’t tell Celestia. I won’t freak her out like that again. She doesn’t deserve that.” Luna replied. “What if you do whatever that was again in front of her? That will be even scarier for her and she’ll have no idea what to do. She’s your family and she deserves to know what’s going on with you.” “No, I refuse to tell her and that’s final!” “Fine, I guess I’ll have to do it myself.” Flusk began trotting towards the door when she heard Luna jump off the bed and grab on to her back leg. “NO, DON’T DO IT!” Luna yelled. “You can’t keep running away from everypony and hiding things, especially from your family and the ones who care deeply about you.” “I know, I know, just..Please don’t tell Celestia. I’ll tell her sometime soon but not now. I’m not ready for her to hear yet. Please..” Flusk paused for a moment before answering. “Fine, but promise me you’ll tell her soon, no excuses.” “I promise.” Luna let go of Flusk as she turned away from the door. “By the way..Please stop searching for a cure for me, Flusk. None of it will work. You just have to let it go.” “I won’t..” “Excuse me, Princess Luna?” Both Flusk and Luna looked to the door to see the knob turn and open. Raven Inkwell as predicted was standing at the door looking a little nervous. She turned to look at both Luna and Flusk before clearing her throat. “Dinner is ready. Princess Celestia asked me to come up here and tell you that. Although..I’m afraid Flusk will have to leave.” “No, she will come to dinner with me.” Luna replied sternly. “Oh, no, no. It’s fine, I’m quite busy-“ “She’s coming.” Luna said. “If you insist, Princess.” Raven said, turning her back on the two of them and trotting downstairs. Luna sighed. “Her assistant is rather annoying and too specific. Sometimes you have to be mean. This is why I’d never have one myself.” Luna began trotting downstairs as Flusk sort of stood there, staring for a moment. Was she really going to attend dinner with the two princesses?..This was as crazy as it sounded to say in her head. She then noticed Luna had completely disappeared down the stairs and she hurried to follow her. *** There was the sound of cutlery scraping against plates and the three of them chewing as a few guards watched over the dinner. They seem to be in place there in case someone somehow came to interrupt the dinner which seemed very unlikely. However, some ponies just tried everything it seemed. Princess Celestia was currently digging into a baked potato on the other side of the table as she glanced at both Luna and Flusk. “So, I never did mention that you brought a friend to the table, sister. How delightful!” Celestia grinned. “You should have told me and I would have brought one of my own.” “It was sort of a last-minute decision.” Luna replied. “I see.” The three of them continued eating in silence as Flusk shoved some broccoli in her mouth, trying to look occupied so she wouldn’t have to speak. “What’s with the silence? I sense there’s something wrong.” Celestia asked. “There’s nothing wrong there’s just nothing to talk about!” Celestia frowned and then looking to Flusk. Flusk nervously looked her in the eyes for a moment before looking away. Celestia knew Flusk knew something she didn’t. She wasn’t just going to tell her though. Luna wanted to tell her herself. “Well..Alright then.” *** “Thank you for the food.” Flusk smiled at a few chefs who smiled back and waved to her as they took the dirty dishes and leftovers off the table with them to the kitchen. A maid had already come and began changing out the table cloths and such as well. Right..Celestia. She should probably leave before she could be caught alone with her. She began hurriedly trotting down the hall, searching for Luna when she heard hoof steps behind her emerging from the dining room. “Flusk Flurry?” Too late.. “Oh! Good evening, Princess.” Flusk greeted Celestia, bowing to her. “No need to bow. You’re a dear friend of my sister, therefore, there’s no formality needed.” Flusk raised to her hooves again, feeling a bit nervous upon looking into her calm pink eyes. “You and Luna seem to hang out quite a bit. How is that going?” “Oh, it’s going well. She’s a very nice pony.” Flusk smiled. “Well, I’m glad my sister is treating you well and you back." Celestia looked out a nearby window, smiling for a few seconds before it formed into a frown and she looked down at Flusk seriously. “You know..If there’s something going on with Luna that she’s not telling me, you can always say. I know she’s very secretive about her problems and she rarely asks for help. I just want to make sure she’s alright. She often pushes aside her issues.” Celestia said. “Oh..Well, alright.” The two stared at each other in silence for a moment. It seemed Celestia was waiting for Flusk to confirm her suspicions in Luna hiding her feelings. Flusk wasn’t going to budge though. She couldn’t. “Well, that was a nice talk we had but I have somewhere to be right now. I deeply apologize.” Flusk said, starting to walk herself backwards while keeping in eye contact with her. “Of course. Have a nice evening, Flusk.” When she saw Celestia turn around and trot the other way, she felt relief wash over her as she trotted off, making sure to not go the same way as her. *** The moon began to rise high in the sky above her as she galloped down the quiet streets of Ponyville. Very few were out right now and normally it was the usual nightwalker or drunk ponies almost losing their balance every step they took. She ignored them though because they were not of importance right now. Not at all. She walked up a few steps once she reached her destination and she knocked on the big door, pausing for someone to open it. It took a bit but she heard some shuffling noises on the other side as it opened a crack. She saw a big green eye staring at her from behind it, studying her. What was that?..Was that a monster. She felt her hooves backing up for her a little bit as she tried to muster at least a greeting. H-Hello?..” She stuttered. The big eye suddenly vanished and the door opened. She was surprised at what she saw answering the door. A baby dragon wearing pyjamas and holding a cup of what looked like hot chocolate with whip cream and sprinkles looked up at her tiredly. The dragon even had the same eyes she saw looking out at her before. The dragon was definitely less scary though now that she knew he was completely harmless...Or was he? “Well, you chose a late time to come here.” The dragon suddenly spoke, sounding not very impressed. “I know, I apologize. I came here to speak to the ‘Princess of Friendship’. Is she awake or well..Here?” “She is actually. She’s doing some late night reading currently. I’m guessing that means you want to come in?” “If that’s okay with you.” The dragon shrugged. “Well, I can’t just leave you here so.” The dragon stepped out of the way as Flusk trotted through the entrance and immediately stopped, her jaw-dropping when she saw the inside. She always admired the castle from a distance because of its beautiful crystal appearance but the inside was even more beautiful. The walls were made of purple crystal that stretched out like the arms of a tree to the ceiling. The very floor she walked on was completely spotless that she even could see her own reflection in it. To add on to it, beautiful curtains and tapestries lined the walls just giving the castle a gorgeous look. “I’ve seen that face before a million times.” The dragon laughed. “Its just..So beautiful. I don’t know how you live here without admiring it many times yourself.” “Well, I guess it just gets boring after a while. It’s always better than a normal pony house though. Much more room to live in.” “I bet.” “Come on, I’ll take you to Twilight.” She followed the baby dragon as she took in her surroundings, still in awe. It almost felt like she could get lost in this place if she weren’t following him. That didn’t sound all that bad. She’d technically get to live here until somepony found her. “Annnd..We’re here!” The dragon pushed open two big doors as she was completely blown away by this room. A big tree trunk hung above like a chandelier hanging colorful little diamonds on its roots as she could have sworn she saw images flickering within them. Below it was a big table made of shiny crystal along with seven thrones around it. Each one had a different image on it such as three apples or maybe three diamonds. There was a little throne that had no image on it but beside it was a bigger throne and a pony seated in it. The purple unicorn seemed to be particularly interested in a book in front of her as her eyes moved fast over the pages, reading it at an alarming rate. “Twi, we have a guest that wants to speak to you.” The dragon said. “Mhm?” The dragon sighed. “I’d recommend covering your ears.” “Why?” Flusk asked. “Just do it.” Flusk put her hooves over her ears as she watched the dragon inhale a lot of air, cupping his claws together towards the pony he called Twilight. “TWILIGGHHT!” The pony jumped in her seat, moving her throne backward a bit. Purple wings suddenly popped up out of nowhere as it seemed to be some sort of fear response. Wait a minute..Wings? Hold on a second..This wasn’t any old pony..This was the Princess of Friendship the one she heard about! How could she have mistaken her as any old pony? “H-Huh?” “Good, you’re out of ‘book land’. We have a guest who wanted to speak to you.” He gestured to Flusk. “A guest?..At this hour?” “Hey, not everypony’s perfect.” The dragon said as Flusk trotted up to the crystal table. “I’m sorry this wasn’t a really convenient time. I just had to get this done before it reached tomorrow.” Flusk removed a piece of parchment from a bag she hung over her back as she looked down at some scribbled writing. “I heard from somepony that you have the Elements of Harmony in your possession. They have the ability to banish evil magic?” “Well..Sort of. They’re not really mine because the Tree of Harmony has them right now.” Twilight replied. “The..Tree of Harmony?” “Never mind. Why are you looking for something that banishes evil magic? Do you need help?” Should she tell Twilight? Luna never said to not tell another princess. But..Was it safe? “No, no. It’s just a research project, that’s all. I’m uh..Doing a project on artifacts and spells that banish evil magic and needed them that’s all.” The dragon looked at her suspiciously as Twilight tapped her hoof to her chin, thinking. “Well, I, unfortunately, can’t let you have the elements but I could maybe show you to my personal library. There might be some spells in there that could aid you in your research. You have to promise me that you won’t abuse the spells though.” “I promise.” Flusk replied. “Hmm..Alright, follow me. You seem to be trustworthy enough.” Twilight got up from her throne as they moved to another room which had shelves of books that reached all the way to the ceiling. Twilight untucked her wings as she flew up to the very top of a shelf, grabbing a hooful of books and setting them in a pile on the floor as she landed back down. “These are all the books on magic I could think of. If you look through them you’ll most likely find something.” Flusk levitated the books, going through a few covers and names and nodding. “If you want, you can take them home with you and return them when you’re done.” “W-What, really?” “Mhm. Just take good care of them and you know..Don’t keep them forever.” Twilight giggled. “Wow, thank you, Princess! I’ll make sure to keep them safe.” Flusk grinned, slipping the books into her bag. “Well, I best be on my way now.” Flusk trotted over to the big doors she and the dragon had previously entered through and pushed them open, looking side to side through the halls before looking back at Twilight and the dragon with a bit of a sheepish smile. “Uhh..Mind showing me to the door, please?” The dragon laughed. “Of course.” Prologue“A dozen cupcakes coming right up!” The pink party pony, Pinkie Pie shouted with glee as she hopped away from the counter and to the kitchen as banging and chime noises were heard. The pony she was serving was a dark unicorn mare with a short blue mane and a feather cutie mark. She gently tapped her hoof on the counter, trying to avert any gaze with any other ponies as the loud banging continued in the kitchen. That noise was certainly not her and she wouldn’t want to be blamed for it either. Why was she looking so hard for already prepared cupcakes? “Whew, I hid that batch of cupcakes good!” Pinkie said as she exited the kitchen, brushing a random egg out of her pink fluffy mane and setting the box of cupcakes on to the counter in front of the mare. “Here you go! You’re Flusk Flurry, right?” “Sure am..” Flusk said, slightly inspecting the cupcakes herself to make sure the pony didn’t put any surprises in them. “Also, did you say you hide..Cupcakes?..In..A ‘sweet’ shop?” “Yup! I have to or else the cake twins will get them! They are the owner's children. I foalsit them whenever they’re busy.” “Hmm..Well, whatever works I suppose.” The unicorn mare's horn glowed as she levitated the box of cupcakes off the counter after inspecting them a little. They seemed safe enough to take home. She trotted out of the line of waiting ponies as another mare was greeted by the excited pink pony. Flusk made her way to the door which she knew would eventually be crowded by ponies waiting if she didn't leave now. Nopony could resist Sugar Cube Corner, even if they were on a diet. She was just a few steps from the door when she recognized something out of the corner of her eye..A flowing blue starry mane..Wait. Was that..The Princess of..Night? Princess Celestia's sister? Here? She stopped and glanced to her right to see in fact, Princess Luna seated at a table with a cupcake in front of her. She didn't look particularly happy..In fact..Rather sad. Her hooves were rested in front of her on the table as she rested her head on them, staring at that swirly, sugary dessert sprinkled with many tiny little stars. The cupcake looked like it was custom made just for her. However, she wasn't very happy with it. Perhaps she wasn't happy with something else. Flusk suddenly felt an urge that she should talk to the princess. No..She didn't want to bother her. Besides, who would want a simple civilian pestering them? She clearly wanted to be alone in that moment. She turned her attention back to the sunny day outside. She was only a few more steps away from leaving and going home with her cupcakes.. "Um..Y-Your highness?" The princess lifted her head as she looked around before looking to her left to see Flusk standing to her side. The mare put a smile on her face as she tried to seem as friendly as she could towards the night princess. She was about to speak to royalty after all. "I..I don't mean to interrupt you. I can leave if that's what you truly des-" "No please," Luna raised her hoof to stop Flusk. "Do stay. What is it I can help you with?" Flusk looked taken aback but accepted Luna's request for her to stay. She looked over to the nearby chair across from Luna as she awkwardly sat down at it, placing her box of cupcakes on the table, purposely far away from Luna's cupcake. "Well..Its not that I want your help. I rather want to help you." Flusk replied, looking a little nervous. Was that rude?..She couldn't tell. "Help me? With what exactly?" "Well, I couldn't help but notice that you look a little down..P-Princess. I was..Wondering if maybe I could help you? You know..Feel better?" Flusk smiled sheepishly. "Oh.." Flusk's sheepish smile turned into a look of worry. Did she do something wrong?! The princess only stared down at the table frowning once again. "I appreciate your concern but..No." The princess looked away, a shaky exhale escaping out of her. It seemed like this wasn't the first time she had shut the doors on anypony trying to help her. Perhaps it was the past she suffered from where she was left in the dark and her sister showed no care for the younger one. Flusk had learned about what happened later in more depth once the writers of the Equestrian history books got more information than a 'scary pony' who just wanted to have endless night. Maybe she was..Afraid to open up to others in fear she might be shunned out again by others. Well, she certainly wouldn't be getting anything out of her by pestering her about it. "Um..Here." The princess looked again to the table to see a vanilla cupcake with pink frosting beside her original cupcake. "I..I know you already had a cupcake but..I wanted to be nice." Flusk smiled shyly. Luna's eyes darted to both cupcakes for a moment when suddenly she started laughing, slamming her hoof on the table. It scared Flusk a little as she looked at her confused and then to the many eyes now watching their table curiously. Flusk then looked back to Luna and snorted a little, trying not to laugh but clearly failing. "Y-You..I-I had a cupcake already and..You..You gave me another one?!" Luna laughed loudly. "I know, I know, it's dumb!" Flusk couldn't quite understand why Luna was laughing and why she was laughing along with her even though she had no idea why they were laughing. Still, she made the princess laugh. That was a big accomplishment for her even if it was a small little act. It wasn't long before Luna came out of her laughing fit and she gasped for air, wiping a tear out of her eye. It sure was funny to her. "Ahh..I haven't laughed that hard in ages." Luna sighed, giving a small last giggle. "Well, I'm glad I made you laugh at least." "Here," Luna pushed the cupcake back to Flusk. "Take it back. I don't have much of an appetite anyway. I think I'll just box mine up and be on my way." “Oh alright, if you’re sure.” Flusk levitated the pink frosted cupcake back into the box of the other ones and shut it. She softly levitated the box of cupcakes by her side as she stood up, watching the princess get up to her hooves as well. “Perhaps we’ll meet again...Your name?” Luna asked. “Oh! Flusk Flurry. Flusk is just fine though.” Flusk grinned. “Flusk..What a unique name. That one definitely won’t slip my mind.” Luna began towards the exit and then turned around, giving Flusk one last glance. “Have a nice evening, Flusk.” The princess walked past a few ponies who immediately made way for the princess upon looking up and only seeing a glance of her blue starry mane. A few of them bowed in respect of her and others gave a simple nod before returning back to their place in line. Flusk found herself galloping outside to catch up with her and give her a goodbye before she left but when she looked up she only saw a small sliver of her tail disappear into a glowing white portal which disappeared as well. Flusk sighed and lowered her head, staring at the ground defeated. She never got to say what she wanted to say without the other leaving first. "Wow, you actually talked to her?" Flusk's ears perked up and looked behind her to see the same pink pony who served her cupcakes standing there at the entrance of Sugar Cube Corner. She wore an idle smile on her face along with a cute colorful apron Flusk never saw her wearing before up until now. Wait..If she was tending to the orders of the ponies in line, what was she doing out here and who was taking over her job? Flusk looked past her to see a particularly flustered young stallion dealing with the line. He didn't look like he knew what he was doing and probably just started working there. She felt a bit bad for the stallion as she turned her attention back to the pink one. "Talking to who?" Flusk asked. "Princess Luna! I saw you and her sitting together having a nice chat. You deserve a pat on the back for that honestly." And with that, the pony trotted over and patted Flusk on the back softly before taking a few steps back to her original place. "W-What? Why? She looked upset and I only wanted to see what was wrong." Flusk replied. "Exactly! It's hard to start a conversation with her, trust me. I planned a birthday party for her a while back and all she did was take a slice of cake, a few snacks, and refused the birthday gifts that were offered to her! Birthday gifts!" Pinkie repeated. "Who would want to refuse free gifts from your friends and family that they spent on you alone? Even her sister got her something special and she said she wasn't in the mood. What kind of pony says that?" "Maybe she just isn't doing so well right now. You never know." "Yeah, but this was months ago. I was relieved to see her come to Sugar Cube Corner this evening but she still seems the same as ever. She only gave me her order and seated herself. I gave her the cupcake, yada, yada, yada, and nothing! Just some bits and a blank stare. If she wasn't doing so well, I'm sure she would have got over it a loooonnng time ago." "Getting over things doesn't work that way!" Flusk said, getting a little annoyed. Pinkie shrugged and then began to make her way back to Sugar Cube Corner. "Well, I hope you make her smile!" "I hope you make her smile!" That resonated with Flusk more than it should have.
Chapter 1: The TruthMonths later after Princess Luna and Flusk first met.. "I..Told you..I'm fine!" "Yeah, collapsing on a hill out of nowhere is 'fine'. Whatever you say, Luna." Flusk was currently galloping through a tall field of grass with a particularly heavy alicorn on her back. They weren't too far from Canterlot Castle and would reach it in a few minutes where Flusk could safely rest her on a bed without having to strain her back anymore. She could see the castle right before her as relief began to wash over her and her sore back. "You there! What are you doing with the princess?" A guard shouted at the entrance, raising his spear at Flusk. "Important and life-threatening, let me through please!" "D-Don't tell him that..H-He'll actually call..A..D-Doctor..I don't need..A doctor!" Luna weakly said. "Is the princess hurt?" "I'm not sure. She just collapsed while we were out having a picnic. She sounds like she's struggling though." Flusk explained. "Alright, I'll call a doctor to give her a check-up. Please take the princess to her room and rest her there for now." "Yes, sir!" Luna only groaned on Flusk's back as she took her into the castle and to her bedroom. While escorting her there, she got some very odd glances from other ponies who worked in the castle such as maids, cooks, and even some tourists who were visiting. A few opened their mouths to ask questions but instantly stopped as if the ability to speak was no longer an option and they physically couldn't. It basically looked like Flusk was kidnapping Luna into her own home to put it simply. But what was the problem with that? Was it even considered kidnapping if you were 'kidnapping' them into their own home? "O-Oh my goodness! U-Um, excuse me! What are you doing with Princess Luna, miss?" A nervous voice asked behind her. Flusk looked over her shoulder to see a white mare with a dark brown mane hurrying behind her to match her pace. She looked bewildered to see Luna on her back like this. And then, Flusk had a sudden realization this pony was Raven Inkwell. To put it shortly, she did basically all the paperwork for Luna's sister and was usually seen at her side discussing 'boring topics'. She had seen her before when visiting the castle to see Luna. She looked a little more frazzled today though. Flusk sighed in annoyance. "I'm not kidnapping her, I'm taking her to her room!" "But she has guards here to assist her if she needs to be carried." "I don't CARE! Just let me do what I need to do!" Raven seemed taken aback as she stopped following Flusk, watching her disappear around the corner silently to Luna's chambers. Well, her job wasn't to tend to Princess Luna. Her job was to tend to Princess Celestia. As selfish of a thought that was, nowhere did it say she had to care for the both of them. Raven simply brushed a strand of mane out of her face and turned away, trotting back where she came from. If she was questioned, she'd only answer she had seen nothing or had no clue what was going on. *** "There, are you comfy?" "Does it r-really..M-Matter?" "Of course it does, you're sick." "I'm not sick, Flusk! Y-You called a-a doctor for..N-No reason! W-What's a d-doctor g-going..T-To do for me?" Flusk was just fluffing up Luna's pillows when she heard a knock on the door. She trotted over to it and opened it. Outside was a unicorn stallion studying a clipboard who gave a simple nod to Flusk and invited himself in. She shut the door behind him, a little confused by the silent greeting but going with it as she joined him beside Luna's bed. "Hm..From the information that was gathered by this young mare who brought you in, you collapsed on a hill and are..'Struggling'? Do you have breathing problems and weakness?" The doctor asked, adjusting his glasses and staring for once elsewhere from his clipboard. "D-Don't even b-bother..Y-You won't be able..T-To diagnose me. I-I've been t-trying to say that..B-But nopony listens.." "Hmm, stuttering and pauses between speech." The doctor muttered, writing something down on the clipboard. "Has this happened before?" "ENOUGH!" A strong wind exploded from Luna which blew both Flusk and the doctor back. The doctor shielded his face with his arm as he fought with the wind to stay firmly standing on the ground. Meanwhile, Flusk had gone flying and smacked her back into the wall, releasing a groan of pain from her as she crumpled to the ground. The winds abruptly stopped as the doctor regained his composure. “F-Flusk? A-are you..O-Okay?” Luna asked, staring worriedly at Flusk on the floor. The doctor rushed to Flusk as soon as he had recovered from the harsh winds. He gently placed a hoof on her side. "Miss? Miss, are you there?" Her eyes suddenly fluttered open, looking to the doctor and then to the bed in front of her. "H-Huh?..Yeah..I'm okay." "Are you sure? You're not hurt or anything?" "Yeah, I'm okay." "Alright." The doctor removed his hoof, allowing the mare to get up on to her hooves again. She brushed herself off and turned her gaze to Luna who looked rather relieved to see she was okay. Flusk could only frown at her, quickly turning her attention to a window in the room which was letting a bit of sunlight in. A tiny bird was sitting on the window sill flapping its wings a little and pecking on the ledge it stood on minding its own business. She..She couldn't look at Luna right now. "Miss, I don't mean to offend but maybe perhaps it would be best if you left for now. I'll deal with the princess for now." The doctor said. "Fine.." Flusk lowered her head and folded her ears, trotting out of the bedroom. All she could feel was sadness and a little bit of betrayal. All she wanted to do was help..But..Luna hurt her for trying. Even though she couldn't see behind her, she knew Luna was watching and that Luna was definitely feeling pretty bad right now..Sort of how Flusk wanted her to feel. *** Flusk leaned over a balcony railing with her head on her hooves. She was on one of the towers that the sisters used to stand and raise the sun and moon. She didn’t know which one but she didn’t really care of course. Behind her was a large blue telescope. Yeah, this was Luna’s tower...Hopefully, she didn’t find her here. A soft breeze swept by and carried Flusk’s mane with it, sending a bit of a chill down her back. She only sighed as she was lost in thought, thinking on why Luna would get mad at her for only trying to help. Never mind that, why hurt her? She didn’t care if it was just some overreaction, it hurt! Flusk sniffled a little as she noticed tears started to fall down her cheeks. Great, just great. She definitely needed somepony to see her crying. NOT! She took a few deep breaths as she tried to wipe a few tears away with her hooves. It didn’t really work though since she kept dwelling on the thought, thinking that Luna really wanted to hurt her and didn’t appreciate her. What happened to their friendship? What happened to the kind-hearted pony she met in Sugar Cube Corner a few months ago? More tears just fell from her eyes and she swore under her breath, trying to get her emotions in order. “Flusk?..” “AH! Oh..” From the corner of her eyes, she saw a large dark blue figure standing in the entryway to the balcony. She could already tell it was Luna by the flowing blue blur attached to the figure and the sound of her voice. She furiously rubbed at her eyes and her cheeks to get rid of any tears so she wouldn’t see her crying as she turned around, putting on a fake smile. “Hey, Luna. I see your check-up is over, how’d it go?” Flusk said, putting on a cheerful tone. “He didn’t find anything like I knew he wouldn’t.” Luna replied, sounding a little disappointed. “Really? That’s strange. Well, you’re not stuttering anymore or struggling to walk so that’s a good sign!” “Flusk, I know you were crying.” Flusk paused, her mouth sort of hanging open. She didn’t know what to say or what to think. Was she supposed to say something or think something? She didn’t want Luna to worry about her. Luna’s health was the most important right now. “W-What? What are you talking about? I was just-“ “You were. It doesn’t take a genius to see that. I should know, I use to be quite a crybaby in the past.” Flusk sighed. “It doesn’t matter right now, I want to know that you’re okay. You seem to know more about the reason you’re struggling and weak more than a doctor and everyoony else does.” “I do, that’s why I told you not to call a doctor.” “Well, I thought you were just being stubborn like always!” Luna’s face changed to one of concern as she saw Flusk starting to cry again. Though, Flusk looked more angry than sad. “You never tell anypony about how you’re feeling or if you’re hurt or anything! You just keep it all inside and expect to come out alright. I was playing guessing games with you the first time we met! I really thought I was getting somewhere with you after a while of being friends but I guess not. You’ll never let me in or let me help you!” “Maybe because I don’t want to hurt you!” “You already have!” There was a sudden silence as Flusk lowered her head, sort of covering her face with her short blue mane. She couldn’t look Luna in the eyes right now..She just couldn’t. “Fine, I’ll tell you what’s wrong with me. Maybe then if you know, it’ll give you time to run.” Luna said. “Time..To run?” Flusk asked, raising her head. Luna patted the ground in front of her, now seated as Flusk sat down. “You’ve heard about the story of Nightmare Moon, right?” “Of course. I’d assume everpony has heard it. It was a story usually told to the little ones. Although, it’s odd to have a story based off you, right?” “You knew Nightmare Moon was me?” Luna’s eyes widened. “Really. Do you really think that everypony wouldn’t know by now? I knew before it was confirmed that Nightmare Moon was you. It’s pretty obvious really. Besides, at Summer Sun Celebrations, your sister speaks of you returning from banishment.” “Oh, right,” Luna rubbed the back of her neck nervously. “Well, like the newly updated story goes, the Element’s of Harmony returned me back to my original self and that was it which isn’t correct.” Luna suddenly stood up, untucking her alicorn wing from her side and spreading it out of the way. Her cutie mark was now in full view. A crescent moon surrounded by splotches of what looked like black paint on her flank. They definitely weren’t paint splatters though. “It’s easy for these to blend in with my cutie mark and look like they’re apart of it,” Luna said, pointing at the little splotches. “But they aren’t. These are the aftermath of being controlled for a thousand years. They are permanently there and physically unremovable. They are also a symbol that her power still lives inside me. The elements weren’t able to remove everything therefore I still have a chance of becoming Nightmare again.” “What, but..Huh?” “This is why doctors can’t help me because it’s not a health issue. It’s a magic issue that can’t be helped. This is why I have been struggling and weak. It takes up my strength to keep myself from being controlled by the power that so badly wants to come out. But do not fear, once I feel that the power is too much, I will banish myself to the moon this time to keep everypony safe.” “WHAT?!” Flusk screamed. “It might seem unfair but it’s me over hundreds of ponies. It would be utterly selfish to leave them all in the way of harm. I would never do that.” “I get it but..Banishing yourself to the moon is too extreme! What would your sister think? I-I..What about me?” “My sister would accept it in a certain amount of time. She had to the first time anyways. And you..You would too. Since you’re a mortal, you wouldn’t ever get to see the day I returned from Nightmare Moon. You would be far dead by then.” Flusk softly blinked as she felt tears starting to form in her eyes when she suddenly shook them off. “No! You know what, I won’t let you do that. I’m going to find something that will help you and something that will banish her magic. I will not let you send yourself to the moon!” “Flusk, it doesn’t ma-“ But she was already gone. Her soft galloping was heard down the hallway until it vanished.
Chapter 2: A Cure“Hi, do you perhaps own anything on dispelling dark magic of any kind?” “I don’t think so. You can always check the magic section and see.” *** “Hello, do you know of any known artifacts that can dispel dark magic?” “Sorry dearie, even if we had any in our possession I wouldn’t be allowed to give it to you. The only ones I can think of are the Elements of Harmony and those belong to Princess Twilight Sparkle.” *** “Hello, I was wondering if maybe you had any potion of some type that had the ability to dispel dark magic?” “I am afraid not, what an interesting item to be sought.” *** There was a loud rumble of thunder and a bright flash of lightning as Flusk let herself into the castle out of the heavy rain. While she was out in Ponyville and elsewhere looking for something to help Princess Luna, it seemed the pegasi had decided it was time for a heavy thunderstorm and had surrounded both Canterlot and Ponyville in a wall of angry dark clouds. She had no choice but to return to the castle, unfortunately. It wasn’t like she was making any progress however anyways. Nopony seemed to have any answers for her on how to help Luna out. She was wearing a long cloak that was now soaking wet and dripping water on to the carpet. She dried her hooves and levitated the cloak off herself, ringing out the water out of it. It wasn’t before long though she noticed Celestia’s assistant galloping over to help her. She wasn’t doing it to actually be kind to Flusk though. She was more concerned about the mess of water Flusk was making inside. “Miss, please don’t come inside the castle soaking wet next time, okay?” Raven said as she grabbed her cloak and began drying it with a spell that conjured some gusts of wind. “Our maids work very hard to keep the castle in tip-top shape. Besides, we wouldn’t want the princesses to have a reputation for a messy castle. It would def-..” And that was when Flusk tuned out. That mare would keep going for hours so there was no point in listening. Flusk calmly walked around the castle as she heard the occasional rumble of thunder and a lightning strike shooting through the sky at a nearby window. She was currently looking for Luna but seem to have no luck in finding her in any of the public rooms of the castle. Perhaps trying her bedroom would be best? She made her way to her room’s door and knocked on it before backing away and waiting a few moments for a response. She stared at the painted crescent moon on her door for a few minutes before knocking again. “Luna? Are you in there?” Flusk asked. She waited again and got no response. Weird..She checked everywhere in the castle for her. Even the throne room which she knew Luna wouldn’t exactly wander around there herself. Luna had once told her that part of the castle was one she stayed away from because of the many stained glass windows that lined the hall up to the throne. They were beautiful works of art but they also held history in them that Luna didn’t want to relive again such as the one where the Mane Six used the elements on Nightmare Moon to turn her back to normal. Well, one would think that would be a happy memory, Luna only said it had reminded her of the anger and betrayal she felt from her sister for a thousand years. “Luna, you better not be ignoring me again. I checked everywhere for you. You simply can’t be anywhere else. Answer me!” Nothing.. “Alright, I’m coming in if you don’t at least give me a sign you’re in there!” And once again, nothing. “Okay, I’m coming in whether you like it or not.” Flusk turned the knob on the door which surprisingly unlocked. She expected the door to be locked. She pushed the door aside and trotted in to see Luna right there lying on her bed turned towards the wall. She couldn’t see her face but at least she knew where she was. “Wow, you didn’t even bother to answer me? Thanks for ignoring me.” Flusk said, rather annoyed. Luna remained silent and staring at the wall. Flusk could hear heavy breathing and noticed her body shivering a little. What was going on? “Luna? Are you okay?” Luna said nothing. Flusk felt a bad feeling in her gut as she approached Luna. She placed her hoof on her shoulder, feeling an immediate cold sensation. She was as cold as ice! She shivered against her hoof unmoving from her spot. “Woah, you’re freezing! What’s got into you? Why won’t you answer me?” “T-Tia..I-I’m..S-So sorry..” She heard Luna mutter under her breath. She brought her hoof under Luna’s chin, it too feeling as cold as ice. She slowly forced it towards her, forcing Luna to turn her face towards Flusk. When she finally got a good look at her she saw tear stains from her eyes down to her cheeks. Her mouth hung open as she breathed heavily, muttering things Flusk couldn’t understand. Her eyes were shut tightly and she almost felt like she was going to lose her balance and fall right on to Flusk. “Luna..Luna, wake up.” Flusk placed her hooves to her cheeks now, holding her firmly. She spoke close to her face. “Luna, you have to wake up. It’s just a dream. Whatever you’re doing right now needs to stop, you need to wake up!” “T-Tia..B-But..” “Your sister is fine in the real world. The one you’re seeing is a fake. If you wake up she’ll be fine.” “I-I didn’t mean..T-To hurt her..” “LUNA!” “AH!” Luna jumped, her eyes springing open as she panted, her eyes darting around the room and taking in her surroundings before falling on to Flusk in front of her. “F-Flusk?..What are you doing here?” “I was looking for you and found you in here but you weren’t answering.” “Oh..Right.” Luna looked down to the ground, moving backward a tiny bit. “Luna, you have to tell your sister what’s been going on with you. This is ridiculous and scary.” “No! I can’t tell Celestia. I won’t freak her out like that again. She doesn’t deserve that.” Luna replied. “What if you do whatever that was again in front of her? That will be even scarier for her and she’ll have no idea what to do. She’s your family and she deserves to know what’s going on with you.” “No, I refuse to tell her and that’s final!” “Fine, I guess I’ll have to do it myself.” Flusk began trotting towards the door when she heard Luna jump off the bed and grab on to her back leg. “NO, DON’T DO IT!” Luna yelled. “You can’t keep running away from everypony and hiding things, especially from your family and the ones who care deeply about you.” “I know, I know, just..Please don’t tell Celestia. I’ll tell her sometime soon but not now. I’m not ready for her to hear yet. Please..” Flusk paused for a moment before answering. “Fine, but promise me you’ll tell her soon, no excuses.” “I promise.” Luna let go of Flusk as she turned away from the door. “By the way..Please stop searching for a cure for me, Flusk. None of it will work. You just have to let it go.” “I won’t..” “Excuse me, Princess Luna?” Both Flusk and Luna looked to the door to see the knob turn and open. Raven Inkwell as predicted was standing at the door looking a little nervous. She turned to look at both Luna and Flusk before clearing her throat. “Dinner is ready. Princess Celestia asked me to come up here and tell you that. Although..I’m afraid Flusk will have to leave.” “No, she will come to dinner with me.” Luna replied sternly. “Oh, no, no. It’s fine, I’m quite busy-“ “She’s coming.” Luna said. “If you insist, Princess.” Raven said, turning her back on the two of them and trotting downstairs. Luna sighed. “Her assistant is rather annoying and too specific. Sometimes you have to be mean. This is why I’d never have one myself.” Luna began trotting downstairs as Flusk sort of stood there, staring for a moment. Was she really going to attend dinner with the two princesses?..This was as crazy as it sounded to say in her head. She then noticed Luna had completely disappeared down the stairs and she hurried to follow her. *** There was the sound of cutlery scraping against plates and the three of them chewing as a few guards watched over the dinner. They seem to be in place there in case someone somehow came to interrupt the dinner which seemed very unlikely. However, some ponies just tried everything it seemed. Princess Celestia was currently digging into a baked potato on the other side of the table as she glanced at both Luna and Flusk. “So, I never did mention that you brought a friend to the table, sister. How delightful!” Celestia grinned. “You should have told me and I would have brought one of my own.” “It was sort of a last-minute decision.” Luna replied. “I see.” The three of them continued eating in silence as Flusk shoved some broccoli in her mouth, trying to look occupied so she wouldn’t have to speak. “What’s with the silence? I sense there’s something wrong.” Celestia asked. “There’s nothing wrong there’s just nothing to talk about!” Celestia frowned and then looking to Flusk. Flusk nervously looked her in the eyes for a moment before looking away. Celestia knew Flusk knew something she didn’t. She wasn’t just going to tell her though. Luna wanted to tell her herself. “Well..Alright then.” *** “Thank you for the food.” Flusk smiled at a few chefs who smiled back and waved to her as they took the dirty dishes and leftovers off the table with them to the kitchen. A maid had already come and began changing out the table cloths and such as well. Right..Celestia. She should probably leave before she could be caught alone with her. She began hurriedly trotting down the hall, searching for Luna when she heard hoof steps behind her emerging from the dining room. “Flusk Flurry?” Too late.. “Oh! Good evening, Princess.” Flusk greeted Celestia, bowing to her. “No need to bow. You’re a dear friend of my sister, therefore, there’s no formality needed.” Flusk raised to her hooves again, feeling a bit nervous upon looking into her calm pink eyes. “You and Luna seem to hang out quite a bit. How is that going?” “Oh, it’s going well. She’s a very nice pony.” Flusk smiled. “Well, I’m glad my sister is treating you well and you back." Celestia looked out a nearby window, smiling for a few seconds before it formed into a frown and she looked down at Flusk seriously. “You know..If there’s something going on with Luna that she’s not telling me, you can always say. I know she’s very secretive about her problems and she rarely asks for help. I just want to make sure she’s alright. She often pushes aside her issues.” Celestia said. “Oh..Well, alright.” The two stared at each other in silence for a moment. It seemed Celestia was waiting for Flusk to confirm her suspicions in Luna hiding her feelings. Flusk wasn’t going to budge though. She couldn’t. “Well, that was a nice talk we had but I have somewhere to be right now. I deeply apologize.” Flusk said, starting to walk herself backwards while keeping in eye contact with her. “Of course. Have a nice evening, Flusk.” When she saw Celestia turn around and trot the other way, she felt relief wash over her as she trotted off, making sure to not go the same way as her. *** The moon began to rise high in the sky above her as she galloped down the quiet streets of Ponyville. Very few were out right now and normally it was the usual nightwalker or drunk ponies almost losing their balance every step they took. She ignored them though because they were not of importance right now. Not at all. She walked up a few steps once she reached her destination and she knocked on the big door, pausing for someone to open it. It took a bit but she heard some shuffling noises on the other side as it opened a crack. She saw a big green eye staring at her from behind it, studying her. What was that?..Was that a monster. She felt her hooves backing up for her a little bit as she tried to muster at least a greeting. H-Hello?..” She stuttered. The big eye suddenly vanished and the door opened. She was surprised at what she saw answering the door. A baby dragon wearing pyjamas and holding a cup of what looked like hot chocolate with whip cream and sprinkles looked up at her tiredly. The dragon even had the same eyes she saw looking out at her before. The dragon was definitely less scary though now that she knew he was completely harmless...Or was he? “Well, you chose a late time to come here.” The dragon suddenly spoke, sounding not very impressed. “I know, I apologize. I came here to speak to the ‘Princess of Friendship’. Is she awake or well..Here?” “She is actually. She’s doing some late night reading currently. I’m guessing that means you want to come in?” “If that’s okay with you.” The dragon shrugged. “Well, I can’t just leave you here so.” The dragon stepped out of the way as Flusk trotted through the entrance and immediately stopped, her jaw-dropping when she saw the inside. She always admired the castle from a distance because of its beautiful crystal appearance but the inside was even more beautiful. The walls were made of purple crystal that stretched out like the arms of a tree to the ceiling. The very floor she walked on was completely spotless that she even could see her own reflection in it. To add on to it, beautiful curtains and tapestries lined the walls just giving the castle a gorgeous look. “I’ve seen that face before a million times.” The dragon laughed. “Its just..So beautiful. I don’t know how you live here without admiring it many times yourself.” “Well, I guess it just gets boring after a while. It’s always better than a normal pony house though. Much more room to live in.” “I bet.” “Come on, I’ll take you to Twilight.” She followed the baby dragon as she took in her surroundings, still in awe. It almost felt like she could get lost in this place if she weren’t following him. That didn’t sound all that bad. She’d technically get to live here until somepony found her. “Annnd..We’re here!” The dragon pushed open two big doors as she was completely blown away by this room. A big tree trunk hung above like a chandelier hanging colorful little diamonds on its roots as she could have sworn she saw images flickering within them. Below it was a big table made of shiny crystal along with seven thrones around it. Each one had a different image on it such as three apples or maybe three diamonds. There was a little throne that had no image on it but beside it was a bigger throne and a pony seated in it. The purple unicorn seemed to be particularly interested in a book in front of her as her eyes moved fast over the pages, reading it at an alarming rate. “Twi, we have a guest that wants to speak to you.” The dragon said. “Mhm?” The dragon sighed. “I’d recommend covering your ears.” “Why?” Flusk asked. “Just do it.” Flusk put her hooves over her ears as she watched the dragon inhale a lot of air, cupping his claws together towards the pony he called Twilight. “TWILIGGHHT!” The pony jumped in her seat, moving her throne backward a bit. Purple wings suddenly popped up out of nowhere as it seemed to be some sort of fear response. Wait a minute..Wings? Hold on a second..This wasn’t any old pony..This was the Princess of Friendship the one she heard about! How could she have mistaken her as any old pony? “H-Huh?” “Good, you’re out of ‘book land’. We have a guest who wanted to speak to you.” He gestured to Flusk. “A guest?..At this hour?” “Hey, not everypony’s perfect.” The dragon said as Flusk trotted up to the crystal table. “I’m sorry this wasn’t a really convenient time. I just had to get this done before it reached tomorrow.” Flusk removed a piece of parchment from a bag she hung over her back as she looked down at some scribbled writing. “I heard from somepony that you have the Elements of Harmony in your possession. They have the ability to banish evil magic?” “Well..Sort of. They’re not really mine because the Tree of Harmony has them right now.” Twilight replied. “The..Tree of Harmony?” “Never mind. Why are you looking for something that banishes evil magic? Do you need help?” Should she tell Twilight? Luna never said to not tell another princess. But..Was it safe? “No, no. It’s just a research project, that’s all. I’m uh..Doing a project on artifacts and spells that banish evil magic and needed them that’s all.” The dragon looked at her suspiciously as Twilight tapped her hoof to her chin, thinking. “Well, I, unfortunately, can’t let you have the elements but I could maybe show you to my personal library. There might be some spells in there that could aid you in your research. You have to promise me that you won’t abuse the spells though.” “I promise.” Flusk replied. “Hmm..Alright, follow me. You seem to be trustworthy enough.” Twilight got up from her throne as they moved to another room which had shelves of books that reached all the way to the ceiling. Twilight untucked her wings as she flew up to the very top of a shelf, grabbing a hooful of books and setting them in a pile on the floor as she landed back down. “These are all the books on magic I could think of. If you look through them you’ll most likely find something.” Flusk levitated the books, going through a few covers and names and nodding. “If you want, you can take them home with you and return them when you’re done.” “W-What, really?” “Mhm. Just take good care of them and you know..Don’t keep them forever.” Twilight giggled. “Wow, thank you, Princess! I’ll make sure to keep them safe.” Flusk grinned, slipping the books into her bag. “Well, I best be on my way now.” Flusk trotted over to the big doors she and the dragon had previously entered through and pushed them open, looking side to side through the halls before looking back at Twilight and the dragon with a bit of a sheepish smile. “Uhh..Mind showing me to the door, please?” The dragon laughed. “Of course.”
Prologue“A dozen cupcakes coming right up!” The pink party pony, Pinkie Pie shouted with glee as she hopped away from the counter and to the kitchen as banging and chime noises were heard. The pony she was serving was a dark unicorn mare with a short blue mane and a feather cutie mark. She gently tapped her hoof on the counter, trying to avert any gaze with any other ponies as the loud banging continued in the kitchen. That noise was certainly not her and she wouldn’t want to be blamed for it either. Why was she looking so hard for already prepared cupcakes? “Whew, I hid that batch of cupcakes good!” Pinkie said as she exited the kitchen, brushing a random egg out of her pink fluffy mane and setting the box of cupcakes on to the counter in front of the mare. “Here you go! You’re Flusk Flurry, right?” “Sure am..” Flusk said, slightly inspecting the cupcakes herself to make sure the pony didn’t put any surprises in them. “Also, did you say you hide..Cupcakes?..In..A ‘sweet’ shop?” “Yup! I have to or else the cake twins will get them! They are the owner's children. I foalsit them whenever they’re busy.” “Hmm..Well, whatever works I suppose.” The unicorn mare's horn glowed as she levitated the box of cupcakes off the counter after inspecting them a little. They seemed safe enough to take home. She trotted out of the line of waiting ponies as another mare was greeted by the excited pink pony. Flusk made her way to the door which she knew would eventually be crowded by ponies waiting if she didn't leave now. Nopony could resist Sugar Cube Corner, even if they were on a diet. She was just a few steps from the door when she recognized something out of the corner of her eye..A flowing blue starry mane..Wait. Was that..The Princess of..Night? Princess Celestia's sister? Here? She stopped and glanced to her right to see in fact, Princess Luna seated at a table with a cupcake in front of her. She didn't look particularly happy..In fact..Rather sad. Her hooves were rested in front of her on the table as she rested her head on them, staring at that swirly, sugary dessert sprinkled with many tiny little stars. The cupcake looked like it was custom made just for her. However, she wasn't very happy with it. Perhaps she wasn't happy with something else. Flusk suddenly felt an urge that she should talk to the princess. No..She didn't want to bother her. Besides, who would want a simple civilian pestering them? She clearly wanted to be alone in that moment. She turned her attention back to the sunny day outside. She was only a few more steps away from leaving and going home with her cupcakes.. "Um..Y-Your highness?" The princess lifted her head as she looked around before looking to her left to see Flusk standing to her side. The mare put a smile on her face as she tried to seem as friendly as she could towards the night princess. She was about to speak to royalty after all. "I..I don't mean to interrupt you. I can leave if that's what you truly des-" "No please," Luna raised her hoof to stop Flusk. "Do stay. What is it I can help you with?" Flusk looked taken aback but accepted Luna's request for her to stay. She looked over to the nearby chair across from Luna as she awkwardly sat down at it, placing her box of cupcakes on the table, purposely far away from Luna's cupcake. "Well..Its not that I want your help. I rather want to help you." Flusk replied, looking a little nervous. Was that rude?..She couldn't tell. "Help me? With what exactly?" "Well, I couldn't help but notice that you look a little down..P-Princess. I was..Wondering if maybe I could help you? You know..Feel better?" Flusk smiled sheepishly. "Oh.." Flusk's sheepish smile turned into a look of worry. Did she do something wrong?! The princess only stared down at the table frowning once again. "I appreciate your concern but..No." The princess looked away, a shaky exhale escaping out of her. It seemed like this wasn't the first time she had shut the doors on anypony trying to help her. Perhaps it was the past she suffered from where she was left in the dark and her sister showed no care for the younger one. Flusk had learned about what happened later in more depth once the writers of the Equestrian history books got more information than a 'scary pony' who just wanted to have endless night. Maybe she was..Afraid to open up to others in fear she might be shunned out again by others. Well, she certainly wouldn't be getting anything out of her by pestering her about it. "Um..Here." The princess looked again to the table to see a vanilla cupcake with pink frosting beside her original cupcake. "I..I know you already had a cupcake but..I wanted to be nice." Flusk smiled shyly. Luna's eyes darted to both cupcakes for a moment when suddenly she started laughing, slamming her hoof on the table. It scared Flusk a little as she looked at her confused and then to the many eyes now watching their table curiously. Flusk then looked back to Luna and snorted a little, trying not to laugh but clearly failing. "Y-You..I-I had a cupcake already and..You..You gave me another one?!" Luna laughed loudly. "I know, I know, it's dumb!" Flusk couldn't quite understand why Luna was laughing and why she was laughing along with her even though she had no idea why they were laughing. Still, she made the princess laugh. That was a big accomplishment for her even if it was a small little act. It wasn't long before Luna came out of her laughing fit and she gasped for air, wiping a tear out of her eye. It sure was funny to her. "Ahh..I haven't laughed that hard in ages." Luna sighed, giving a small last giggle. "Well, I'm glad I made you laugh at least." "Here," Luna pushed the cupcake back to Flusk. "Take it back. I don't have much of an appetite anyway. I think I'll just box mine up and be on my way." “Oh alright, if you’re sure.” Flusk levitated the pink frosted cupcake back into the box of the other ones and shut it. She softly levitated the box of cupcakes by her side as she stood up, watching the princess get up to her hooves as well. “Perhaps we’ll meet again...Your name?” Luna asked. “Oh! Flusk Flurry. Flusk is just fine though.” Flusk grinned. “Flusk..What a unique name. That one definitely won’t slip my mind.” Luna began towards the exit and then turned around, giving Flusk one last glance. “Have a nice evening, Flusk.” The princess walked past a few ponies who immediately made way for the princess upon looking up and only seeing a glance of her blue starry mane. A few of them bowed in respect of her and others gave a simple nod before returning back to their place in line. Flusk found herself galloping outside to catch up with her and give her a goodbye before she left but when she looked up she only saw a small sliver of her tail disappear into a glowing white portal which disappeared as well. Flusk sighed and lowered her head, staring at the ground defeated. She never got to say what she wanted to say without the other leaving first. "Wow, you actually talked to her?" Flusk's ears perked up and looked behind her to see the same pink pony who served her cupcakes standing there at the entrance of Sugar Cube Corner. She wore an idle smile on her face along with a cute colorful apron Flusk never saw her wearing before up until now. Wait..If she was tending to the orders of the ponies in line, what was she doing out here and who was taking over her job? Flusk looked past her to see a particularly flustered young stallion dealing with the line. He didn't look like he knew what he was doing and probably just started working there. She felt a bit bad for the stallion as she turned her attention back to the pink one. "Talking to who?" Flusk asked. "Princess Luna! I saw you and her sitting together having a nice chat. You deserve a pat on the back for that honestly." And with that, the pony trotted over and patted Flusk on the back softly before taking a few steps back to her original place. "W-What? Why? She looked upset and I only wanted to see what was wrong." Flusk replied. "Exactly! It's hard to start a conversation with her, trust me. I planned a birthday party for her a while back and all she did was take a slice of cake, a few snacks, and refused the birthday gifts that were offered to her! Birthday gifts!" Pinkie repeated. "Who would want to refuse free gifts from your friends and family that they spent on you alone? Even her sister got her something special and she said she wasn't in the mood. What kind of pony says that?" "Maybe she just isn't doing so well right now. You never know." "Yeah, but this was months ago. I was relieved to see her come to Sugar Cube Corner this evening but she still seems the same as ever. She only gave me her order and seated herself. I gave her the cupcake, yada, yada, yada, and nothing! Just some bits and a blank stare. If she wasn't doing so well, I'm sure she would have got over it a loooonnng time ago." "Getting over things doesn't work that way!" Flusk said, getting a little annoyed. Pinkie shrugged and then began to make her way back to Sugar Cube Corner. "Well, I hope you make her smile!" "I hope you make her smile!" That resonated with Flusk more than it should have.
