Loyalty
Loyalty
By
Inky Shades
Rainbow Dash took a swig of her cider. She had hoped that the drink would ease her nerves, but so far all it had done was make her cheeks warm and she didn't need any more help with that. Should she get another one? No, that wouldn't be a good idea. Then she’d be too drunk to say what she wanted to say to the mare sitting on the barstool next to her.
That’s right. Of all the places in Ponyville that she could’ve picked, she chose a dingy downtown bar to confess her feelings in. Admittedly of all the bad decisions that she’s made over the years, she’d rank this one as the worst. This place didn't exactly scream “confess your deepest feelings here!” Yeah, what was she thinking? Any other place would've been a much better choice.
Then again she never was good at romantic things. From the time she was a young filly she’d thought that romance was so unquestionably lame, something reserved only for cheesy novels. Now she wished that she’d tried a little harder to understand the subject. Hmm, maybe I should’ve asked Rarity before hoof. But the time for asking for advice had passed.
Besides how could she tell Rarity about her feelings anyway? Not that she thought the fashionista wouldn’t accept her. In fact she was quite certain that all her friends would probably congratulate her on finding somepony special. However, she found herself having a difficult time accepting her own feelings. It probably didn’t help that the mare was her best friend and that she worried that the confession would somehow change their relationship for the worse.
She peered over her left shoulder and gazed at the pale-yellow pegasus next to her, face hidden by her light pink mane, a tell-tale sign of her nerves. Even though they had been sitting at the counter for at least an hour she still hadn’t taken a sip of her cider. Instead she spent her time gingerly poking the mug. Not that any blame could be placed on her. This wasn’t the kind of place that the delicate pegasus frequented.
Everypony here would tell you that a mare like her didn’t belong in a seedy place like this. Naturally, because of this, her presence garnered plenty of attention when they first arrived from the bar’s patrons, stallions and mares alike. They eyed her like a hungry timberwolf. Under their gaze the yellow pegasus kept herself pressed firmly against her side. Not that she had anything to worry about. There was no way in Tartarus she’d ever let anything happen to her. Just to drive her point home, she gave all of the patrons a glare that said, “mess with her, pay the price.”
After that, most seemed to lose interest in her, but there was this one stallion sitting in a corner booth that continued giving her that unnerving predatory look. Even after they had seated themselves at the bar, she could still see him watching her friend. Though, he did remain in his seat so she figured that, that would be as far as it’d go. Next time I’m definitely asking Rarity. That is assuming that there is going to be a next time. There won’t be if you don’t tell her how you feel. She groaned. Dash, you are being so uncool right now!
“Um, uh, Rainbow Dash, are you okay?” whispered the yellow pegasus, brushing some of the mane out of her face.
Great she heard that! “Of course I am, Fluttershy. Why wouldn’t I be?” stammered Rainbow. She took another drink of her cider. Come on, Dash, play it cool!
“Oh, that’s good. So, um, why did you want to see me here? Not that I mind of course!” Fluttershy fidgeted in her seat. “It’s... uh, nice.”
It’s time for action. “Well there’s something that I wanted to tell you.”
“Oh, what is it?”
“Well you see it’s something that I’ve been meaning to tell you for awhile now...” Come on just say it!
“Yes?” Fluttershy looked at her, ears perked up.
Rainbow brought her mug to her lips, but couldn’t taste anything. She peered inside and found it regrettably empty. With a sigh she placed it back on the counter. No more distractions. It’s now or never. Her heart thumped against her chest. She took a deep breath before starting. “Fluttershy, I... I...” The words were on the tip of her tongue, but she found it difficult to get them out.
Fluttershy eyed her intently. You can do this, Dash. Just tell her that you love her as more than a friend. It’s just three simple words. Come on! You’ve been through worse, Discord, the changelings. You can do this!
“I can do this,” muttered Rainbow. “Fluttershy, I... I...” Again she froze.
What if she doesn’t feel the same way for me? What if by confessing I completely ruin our friendship? Do you honestly believe that or are you just afraid that you’re not good enough for her? Yes, I’m afraid. So are you just going to forget about how she makes you feel during a flying competition? You know that she screams for you louder then anypony else. Or what about those days when you have no confidence in yourself? Who is it that always believes in you? I know. Then you owe it to both her and you to find out if she does.
With confidence Rainbow said, “I was wondering if you could watch Tank for me this weekend.” There you said it. Wait...
Fluttershy’s ears drooped. “Oh... sure, it’s no problem,” she said sounding disappointed.
Why does she sound so disappointed? You don’t think... But before she could open her mouth, Fluttershy said something first, “I’m sorry, Rainbow. It’s getting really late and I have to go home... to check on the animals.” Hopping off the stool she said, “Thanks for the drink it was... nice.” She trotted towards the door.
Come on stop her! “Hey, Fluttershy, it was nice hanging out with you. Will I see you tomorrow?” Dash, you fail.
Fluttershy turned, flashed a small smile, and said, “Sure.” With that, she left.
The moment the door closed behind Fluttershy, Rainbow slammed her face into the counter top, causing the two mugs to rustle. She groaned, fumbling blindly for Fluttershy’s untouched cider. Dash, you suck. You let her get away! You idiot! She smashed her free hoof into the counter. Ouch.
“I love you! There I said it!” she exclaimed.
The bartender looked at her with a raised eyebrow, holding both an empty mug and dirty cloth in a green magic field. “I’m married,” he said in a deadpan.
Rainbow frowned. “I wasn’t talking about you.”
“I know that. I was being sarcastic,” he muttered dryly. With a shake of his head he returned to cleaning out the mug.
For the longest time she sat there staring at the drink in her hoof. Then the bartender spoke to her. “I’ll be closing soon so I need you to finish up.”
“What about mister creepy over there?” she asked, waving her hoof behind her, hopefully in the direction of the corner booth.
“You’re the only one left,” said the bartender plainly.
Huh, Just how long have I been sitting here? She shrugged. The answer to her question didn’t matter much to her any way. There were more pressing things on her mind, like if she should go after her. You’ll regret it if you don’t.
“I’m going to find her!” she said feeling a wave of determination wash over her. So she gulped down her drink, left a few bits for the bartender, and left to find Fluttershy.
The moon created just enough light for Fluttershy to see where she was going. Not that it mattered. She was lost. Of course if she wanted to she could just fly back home, but she wasn’t in any hurry and truth-be-told she didn’t like flying all that much. She preferred to keep her hooves firmly on the ground. Though, she did like watching other pegasi fly. Okay, so she liked watching Rainbow Dash fly. Since leaving the bar all she could think about was Rainbow Dash. She let out a sigh that she’d been holding for awhile.
‘I was wondering if you could watch Tank for me this weekend.’ That’s what Rainbow said her reason was for bringing her to that scary bar full of scary ponies. All she wanted was for her to watch her tortoise! Now she loved Tank, that wasn’t her problem. Maybe she just hoped to hear something else. Oh, Fluttershy, did you really expect her to say something else or did you just want her to? I guess it was just wishful thinking. She could never be interested in somepony as weak and helpless as me. Then why was she so nervous asking me about Tank?
A stallion’s voice broke the silence around her. “So what’s a pretty little mare like you doing out at a time like this?”
“Eep!” she squeaked. The stallion could be heard laughing behind her. Slowly she turned around. Her heart skipped a beat as she laid eyes on the stallion from the corner booth. She shrank away from him. The massive earth pony loomed over her.
“Well?” he asked.
“I, uh, um, I was just going home...” she replied meekly.
“Come again? I didn’t hear what you said.”
“I-I was just going home... if that’s okay with you,” she said barely louder than a whisper.
The stallion chuckled at her again, but it wasn’t the kind of laugh that you wanted to join in merriment. This laugh made the fur on her back stand up. “‘If that’s okay with you?’” he said. “That’s the funniest thing that I’ve ever heard!” the stallion laughed. “Don’t you know how dangerous it is for a mare like you to be walking around alone? There are some ponies who’d love to do unspeakable things to you. Wouldn’t that be just a shame?” he asked, stroking her cheek with his fore hoof.
She flinched at his touch. “Please... I don’t want any trouble.” She cast a few quick glances to either side of her, looking for a possible escape route. However, all she could see were pitch-black alleyways and she really, really didn’t want to take her chances down one of those. Then an idea popped into her mind. If I could get into the sky then I could get away! All I have to do is wait for the right moment... in front of the big scary stallion.
“I saw you enter the bar with that other mare. Tell me, where is your little rainbow-maned friend now?”
“I-I went on ahead of her, but sh-she’ll be here any second now, and if she sees you then you’ll be so-sorry!” she said attempting to infuse her words with as much confidence as she could.
“Oh, I’ll be sorry you say?” He smirked at her and leaned in close enough for her to feel his breath. “You’re a terrible liar,” he whispered.
She found her moment. “I’m sorry,” she said, slapping him across his face.
A red hoof mark appeared where she struck. He looked at her like he hadn’t registered what she’d just done. Honestly she was a little stunned herself. She had just hit somepony! It became obvious to her that he was starting to realize what happened. So without wasting any more time she ran in the opposite direction.
It didn’t take long for her to hear a second pair of hooves galloping behind her. There wasn’t a need for her to look behind herself, but she did anyway. She regretted it. Steam blew out of the grey stallion’s nose and his dark eyes were narrowed. He looked like he wanted to kill her. Worst of all he was gaining ground.
“Somepony help me!” she screamed. In response to her cry she saw a few houses’ lights go on, but then one after another they went out. Nopony came to her aid. She was alone.
Her lead over the stallion grew shorter by the second. She wasn’t an athlete, she wasn’t Rainbow Dash, so her legs grew tired from keeping a constant pace. She had to escape now. Unfortunately her wings had other plans for her. They remained glued to her side. Come on! Now is not the time to lock up! After a few precious seconds passed by, her wings opened. She took to the sky. An elated feeling washed over her when she felt the wind beneath her wings. She was safe.
Then she squeaked. She felt something clamp down on the end of her tail. Looking behind her she could see that the stallion had her tail firmly clenched between his teeth. It felt like her heart fell out of her chest. With a tug he brought her violently down. She crashed into the cobbled streets.
“Thought you could get away from me, eh?” He rubbed the red mark on his face. “I’m going to make you pay for this!”
She tried to get up and run, but he just knocked her onto her back. He leered over her and ran a hoof down her left thigh. She tried to push him off, but he was too heavy. He had her firmly pinned under him, and there was nothing that she could do. Tears stung her eyes.
“None of that now,” he said. “I have to do this. You took away my dignity so now it’s only fair that I take away yours! Don’t try to run. It would be a shame if I had to hurt you.”
“P-please... I just want to go home,” she sobbed.
“Shh, be a good girl. It’ll be better for you if you don’t fight it.” He licked her cheek.
She was out of options. So she did the only thing left that she could do. She screamed. She screamed as loud and as long as she could, until her voice gave out. “Rainbow Dash!”
“Rainbow Dash!” She heard a mare scream.
Like a rocket, Rainbow cut through the sky in what she believed to be the mare’s direction. For some reason the voice reminded her of somepony familiar. Not that it mattered. Somepony needed help, and she was going to give it. Though, the thought that she knew that voice nagged at her. Then the answer popped into her mind. A sudden chill traveled down her spine. She knew why the voice sounded familiar. It was because she heard that voice cheering for her in every competition, Fluttershy. That was Fluttershy’s voice!
She followed Fluttershy’s scream to its source. What she saw almost dropped her from the sky. The grey stallion from the bar had Fluttershy pinned under him and... Oh, Celestia is he... No! A fire smoldered within her at seeing the pony she cared for deeply, being violated in such a manner. Nopony should be treated that way, but especially not her! The fire transformed into a raging inferno. Without wasting another second she dove at the stallion and shouted, “Get your damn hooves off of her!”
The stallion stopped and looked around for her. When they made eye contact, she could see his eyes go wide. That’s right bastard. I’m aiming for you! Hitting him felt like colliding with a brick wall. He tumbled a short distance down the road, and hit his head against a lamppost. When he stopped she expected him to stir. He didn’t. She alighted next to a quivering Fluttershy, wobbling a little as she did.
“Fluttershy! Are you okay? Hey,” she asked, gently nuzzling her friend’s cheek.
“R-Rainbow... Dash?" Fluttershy asked looking up at her like she didn’t believe that she was actually there. “Rainbow Dash!” she exclaimed, leaning forward and wrapping her hooves tightly around Rainbow.
Rainbow returned the embrace.
“Rainbow, he... he... r... he... ra...” Fluttershy said, choking on her words.
“I know,” replied Rainbow softly. Fluttershy buried her face into her shoulder and sobbed. “It’s okay, Shy. Just let it out,” she said, stroking her pink mane.
I’m so sorry that this happened to you. I should’ve walked you home. I should’ve kept a closer eye on him. Why did I take you to that bar? Why didn’t I just suck it up and ask Rarity? You didn’t belong there. It’s my fault. Tears formed in her eyes. No! You don’t get to cry. You need to get her someplace safe. She blinked away the wetness and said, “Fluttershy, I need to get you out of here.”
“I can’t,” said Fluttershy, sniffling.
“I won’t let him hurt you again. Is that what you’re worried about?”
“I-I know that, but it’s my legs... I can’t move them.”
“Are you hurt? Do you need me to carry you?” Rainbow flinched at her own words. Seriously, Dash, you asked her that?
“I’m a coward.”
Rainbow’s eyes widened at Fluttershy’s words. “Fluttershy you’re not a c—”
“Yes, I am!” Fluttershy snapped. “If I wasn’t so afraid of everything then I would’ve been able to open my wings in time!—”
“Fluttershy…”
Fluttershy’s eyes glistened. “It was like the dragon all over again! You know I tried to get away from him, I really did. But I was scared, so my wings didn’t open right away, and then he caught me. Then he… and then… and…” She broke down in tears.
“Shh, it’s okay,” Rainbow said, holding Fluttershy close to her.
“Rainbow, what did I do? Did I give him some sort of signal that I wasn’t aware of? Is this my fault?”
“No, it’s not. He’s to blame. Not you.”
“Then why did he pick me, Rainbow?”
Rainbow placed a hoof under Fluttershy’s chin and said, “Hey, look at me.”
And she did. Her puffy eyes met her gaze. Seeing the mare she loved in such a vulnerable state felt like crashing into a tower of rocks over and over again. That stallion is going to pay for putting pain behind those beautiful teal eyes. “Shy, I don’t know why he picked you, but I do know this: None of what’s happened is your fault. I know he hurt you, took something irreplaceable from you. I can’t even imagine what you’re going through right now, but let me help you. Let me get you out of here, even if I have to carry you away.” Rainbow felt something wet slide down her cheeks. Dammit, Dash. You weren’t supposed to cry! She wiped her eyes and then proceeded to remove the tears from Fluttershy’s cheeks.
“O-okay,” Fluttershy said, wiping her nose. “You know, you haven’t called me, Shy, since flight school.”
“It’s been that long? Huh, anyway, let me help you u—” Rainbow felt something smash into her like a train. The impact launched her down the street.
“Rainbow Dash!” Fluttershy cried.
After she came to a halt it took her a moment to regain her senses. She rose to her hooves. What just hit me? She didn’t have to wonder long. The grey stallion stood just a few short feet away from her. I thought that I knocked you out. You’re going to wish that you had stayed down. She crouched down, wings flared.
He took a step towards her and said, “You’re that pegasus from the bar! I’m going to make you pay for attacking me!”
The inferno she felt before reignited within her. “Make. Me,” she demanded, lunging at him.
Again it felt like she crashed into a brick wall. Only this time he barely budged. He gave her a cocky smirk. Her eyes went wide as he bucked her in the chest, sending her soaring through the air. She stopped her flight by spreading her wings. When she landed, the world spun around her. She stumbled towards the stallion and flashed him her cockiest smile. “Is that... all you’ve got?” she asked, clutching her chest briefly. Each breath felt like a knife stabbing her lungs. Okay, Dash. It’s round two. You can do this!
“R-Rainbow, are you okay?” Fluttershy asked.
“Yeah, Shy. I’m okay,” she said, wincing. I hope she didn’t see that.
The stallion smashed his massive frame into Rainbow’s side. She heard something inside herself crack. That can’t be good! She flipped onto her back and delivered a powerful kick into his stomach. He hardly flinched. Seriously what is this stallion made of? He slammed his right fore hoof into her face followed quickly by his left.
She landed a punch under his jaw. He simply smiled at her and continued his onslaught. I’m not even hurting him! Despite the lack of inflicted injuries she continued her assault, but she could only go on for so long. His blows were taking a toll on her. As the beating progressed she found it increasingly more difficult to raise her hooves. Even staying conscious became a battle.
“Stop it! You’re killing her! You... you big dumb meanie!” shouted Fluttershy.
The stallion stopped and turned to face Fluttershy. “What was that? What did you say?”
“I… I said to stop.”
“No, after that, tell me what you said after that.”
Fluttershy remained quiet.
“Don’t have anything to say, now? No matter. I know exactly what you said. I think that you’ll regret those words. What if I do this to your friend?” the stallion said, walking towards Rainbow. He reared up then brought his weight down upon her left wing. There was a sickening crunch, Rainbow screamed. “Heh, now what if I crush her other wing?” he asked.
“Do… your… worst,” Rainbow moaned. In the corner of her eye she could see Fluttershy standing like a statue. “Shy, fly away, get out of here, go!”
“That’s right. Listen to your little friend here. Run while you still can, otherwise you’re next,” the stallion said, rising again.
“No!” Fluttershy screamed jumping onto the stallion’s back.
It hurt like Tartarus, but Rainbow was able to roll out of the way of the stallion’s crushing hooves thanks to Fluttershy distracting him. The stallion thrashed about, trying to dislodge Fluttershy off of his back, but she had her fore legs wrapped tightly around his neck. As the stallion continued thrashing, Rainbow could see that Fluttershy’s grip was weakening. Eventually she was thrown from the stallion. She squeaked as she hit the side of a run-down apartment complex, a dozen or so feet away from Rainbow.
“Shy, you have to get away from here!” Rainbow shouted.
The stallion descended upon Fluttershy. “Do you have anything you want to add, now?” he asked.
“I... I...” Fluttershy squeaked once more.
“Funny. That’s the noise you were making before your friend interrupted me.”
Fluttershy whimpered.
Rainbow tried to move, but her efforts only rewarded her with searing pain. She watched the stallion get close enough to Fluttershy to touch her. Come on, Dash! You have to get up! You have to protect her! With great effort she flipped onto her stomach, grunting. “Leave... her... alone!” she yelled. Slowly and shakily she rose back to her hooves. “I’m not finished yet!” she said, spitting out a little blood.
The stallion turned to face her, surprise in his eyes. “Why do you keep coming back for more? You must not know when to give up.”
“Not when one of my friends is threatened! I won’t let you lay your dirty hooves on her ever again!”
“It’s not my hooves you should be worried about. Still I am curious. Why are you so willing to die for her? No mare is worth that.”
“You don’t understand do you? She’s not just a mare. She’s my best friend. Her life means more to me than my own, but I guess somepony like you wouldn’t know anything about friendship, would you?”
“Friends are overrated,” he stated. “But it’s more than friendship for you isn’t it?” A dark grin spread across his face. “I know the answer: fillyfooler. You’re just jealous that I got to her first!”
“Shut up!” she yelled, flaring her nostrils. “Quit talking about her like she’s just some play thing. She’s not a toy to be enjoyed for a bit and then discarded. She’s a pony, a living, feeling being! She’s kind, beautiful, and the best mare that anypony could ever know. And you... did something so heinous to her and for that I’ll stop you!”
“You’ll stop me? How are you going to do that? You can barely stand,” he said smugly, stroking Fluttershy’s face.
“I’m going to give you one chance to get your hoof off her.”
“Oh, I know. Why don’t you watch me this time? He licked Fluttershy’s ear, causing her to cringe and pull away from him.
That did it. Round three, Dash, this is it. You won’t get another chance. Make this count. She flared her good wing and charged. He reared over Fluttershy. Oh, no you don’t! Before he could crush her into oblivion, Rainbow slammed into his knees. She heard one of the joints pop, and then he toppled over, writhing in pain. His left hind leg bent in an unnatural position.
Now she had the advantage. “How does it feel to be on the bottom?” she asked, punching his muzzle.
Despite the sheer pain the stallion must have been experiencing with his dislocated leg he still put up a fight. He struck a blow between her ribs. She cringed, but kept the punches rolling. The stallion struck her again, cracking something else inside of her. “You’re a persistent bastard aren’t you?” she asked, spitting out some blood.
“Rainbow Dash, stop,” whispered Fluttershy.
But Rainbow didn’t hear her. Both she and the stallion were locked in a battle to the death. Each of them delivered powerful blows into the other. However, Rainbow had no intentions of losing this fight. She’d absorb anything he threw at her. No matter how much her body screamed at her to stop, she wouldn’t. Eventually the stallion stopped retaliating, and she was reminded of the position that she was in just a few short minutes ago. Just a few more strikes and she’d be victorious.
“Rainbow Dash, that’s enough!” shouted Fluttershy, grabbing hold of Rainbow’s raised hoof. Their eyes met and she looked at her with a soft expression. “That’s enough,” she said gently.
Rainbow didn’t want to stop. “Shy, he deserves this! He’s a monster!” she argued.
“I know, but this isn’t the answer. Please stop this for me. Don’t take his life.”
Despite the pain it brought her, Rainbow smiled. She really is too good for you. “Okay,” she said. “Did you hear that?” she asked the stallion, glaring. “If I had my way with you then you’d be dead. The only reason you’re not is because Fluttershy, your victim, doesn’t want me to. Why don’t you think on that?”
She delivered one last hit to a very specific part of his body. Never before had she heard a stallion make such a high pitched noise. “Oh, and one more thing,” she said. “If you ever go near her again then I will turn you into a mare. Do you understand?” she whispered into his ear.
He nodded. Satisfied, she hobbled away. “Come on, Shy,” she said, draping a wing over Fluttershy. “Lean on me. I want to get you... to the hospital. So... they can look you over... make sure you’re okay.” Rainbow collapsed.
“Rainbow!” cried Fluttershy.
“I’m okay,” said Rainbow. “I just felt a little tired for a moment, but I’m good now, see?” she said, forcing herself to stand. She only got about half way up before she collapsed.
“You are not okay! You need a doctor!”
“I’ll be fine,” Rainbow said trying to reassure her. “From this position the hospital should be only a short ten minute flight south west. Are your wings okay? Can you fly?”
“Yes, but you’re in no condition for flight. So how are we supposed to get their together?”
She doesn’t get it. “We’re not. You are,” Rainbow stated.
Fluttershy looked at her like she was crazy and said, “I’m not leaving without you!”
“It’s fine. I’ll catch up with you, but I need to make sure that you’re someplace safe.”
Fluttershy shook her head. “No. You’re coming with me. You just need to stand up,” she said, gently nuzzling Rainbow in the side.
Rainbow winced. “Fluttershy, I’m not going with you.”
“Please don’t say that,” Fluttershy begged. “If I wasn’t so weak and helpless—”
“You are not weak and helpless!” Rainbow exclaimed. Her sudden outburst made her groan. You better not do that again.
“But I am! I’ve always been this way. Do you remember flight school, those colts and fillies that were picking on me? I was powerless to stop their taunts, but then you came. We had never met before and you had come to my aid! You made them stop. That’s how it has always been. I’d be the damsel and you’d be my knight. I’m not as strong as you are,” Fluttershy said, eyes glistening.
“You don’t think that you’re strong? Shy, you’re one of the strongest ponies that I know.”
“You think so?” Fluttershy asked, giving her a disbelieving look.
“I do. Shy, you spared your own rapist. I don’t think that I could’ve done that. So if that isn’t strength then I don’t know what is.”
Tears fell from Fluttershy’s eyes. “But if I hadn’t called for you then you wouldn’t have gotten hurt saving me,” she said.
“Don’t you... don’t you dare suggest for one second that saving you was a mistake. I would do it all over again. I meant what I said to that stallion when I told him that your life means more to me than my own. I’d never be able to forgive myself if I ever failed to protect you.” Rainbow coughed into her hoof. Her lungs protested painfully. She peered at her hoof and saw blood. That really isn’t good.
“We need to get you to a doctor.”
“The only way I’m getting to a doctor is by flight, and I... can’t.” Rainbow hated to admit it, but her body was too far gone.
“B-but I can. I could carry you!” Fluttershy suggested.
“Shy, you could hardly lift me the day I got Tank. It’s okay.”
“No! I am not going to let you die! It’s my turn to save you!” she said, scooping Rainbow into her arms.
As Fluttershy struggled to get them airborne an intense pain shot through Rainbow’s body, making her vision go dark for a moment. To keep from screaming she ground her teeth together. Tears rolled off her face. Thinking became almost impossible. So did breathing.
“I’m so, so... sorry!” said Fluttershy, panting.
Rainbow stroked Fluttershy’s cheek. She hoped that the gesture would tell her that she had nothing to apologize for. Normally she’d express herself verbally, but she was still keeping her mouth tightly clenched to prevent herself from screaming. Though, the feeling was passing, slowly. You have to tell her now. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Gradually they rose higher into the air. Fluttershy beat her wings furiously. She sounded about ready to pass out when they got above the roof tops, but she kept going. Rainbow could see the determination in her eyes. She smiled slightly. You never cease to amaze me, Shy.
“H-hey... Shy... there’s something that I need to tell you,” Rainbow said, taking a few shallow breaths.
“You can tell me once we’re at the hospital.”
“I don’t think it can wait until then.”
“But—”
“Shy, please, it’s hard to talk.”
“Okay...” whispered Fluttershy.
“I love you,” Rainbow said, placing a kiss on her cheek. After finally airing her feelings, calmness flowed through her. “I’m just sorry it took me so long to tell you.”
Fluttershy blushed, tears falling. “Oh, um, you do? I-I love you too, but why?” she asked, softly.
Rainbow smiled and replied, “Why do I need a reason? I... just... do.” Darkness crept into the corner of her vision, but she was able to make out a smile on Fluttershy’s face.
“Rainbow, I can see the hospital in the distance. It’ll just be a couple more minutes, Rainbow?”
“...Hmm?” replied Rainbow, drowsily.
“Rainbow Dash, Dashie!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “We’re almost there! Hold on! Don’t leave me!”
“I just feel... tired,” Rainbow mumbled, closing her eyes.
“Hang on! It’s right there! Rainbow Dash? Rainbow Dash, open your eyes! Somepony help us!” Fluttershy cried.
“It’s okay, Shy.”
“Look! Somepony heard me. They’re coming to help us. You’re going to be okay!”
“I’m... just glad... that you’re safe. H-hey, tell Rarity... that... I should’ve... should’ve let her pick the spot,” said Rainbow, brushing her hoof along Fluttershy’s cheek. She breathed out and her hoof fell.
Despair held Fluttershy firmly in its grip. She felt helpless, completely and hopelessly helpless. Things were quiet in the hospital room. The only noise being the constant beep of the heart monitor. Consistency was good though; it meant that she was still alive. Yet knowing that she was alive wasn’t enough. Her eyes, Fluttershy wanted to see her open her eyes again. She had to open her eyes again.
Fluttershy sang quietly. “Hush now, quiet now—”
The doctor steps out into the waiting room and tells her that Rainbow’s surgery is finished. She feels relieved at the news, yet the doctor has a frown. The relief starts to slip away.
‘I did all that I could,’ he begins, ‘But her injuries were far too numerous and severe. I’m sorry.’
“It’s time to lay your sleepy head—”
She stares at the doctor like he has two heads. It takes her a minute to form words.
‘What do you mean, doctor? She’s out of surgery that means she must be okay, right?’
The doctor looks at her solemnly. ‘I managed to get her stabilized, but… she's in a coma now.'
'Will she wake up?'
'It's difficult to say. If she does, then there is a good chance that she may never fly again.'
She cries on the spot. Once more the doctor apologizes to her. It makes no difference. Anger builds within her, but who is it directed towards? The doctor? No. Herself? Yes, that answers her question. She blames herself even though she knows that she should place the blame on the stallion. Why can’t she just blame him?
“Hush now, quiet now—”
It’s difficult for her, but she manages to describe the events of the night. She has to get this off her chest. The doctor listens respectfully, only asking the occasional question. Once she finishes, the doctor remains silent. Finally, the doctor suggests that she get an examination.
She shakes her head. An examination would take time, and she wants to spend as much time as she can with Rainbow. The doctor tells her that he understands, but that it would be best to do the exam now. He says that if they wait then evidence could be destroyed. He assures her that it won’t take too long. She knows that he’s right, so she concedes. The doctor asks for Nurse Redheart.
“It’s time to go to bed—”
The examination finishes. She wishes that Rainbow could’ve been there with her. Once again she asks the doctor if she can see Rainbow, now. The doctor gives his approval. Before she leaves, the doctor asks if there is anyone that she’d like him to contact.
The girls! How could she have forgotten about them? She lets the doctor know who to contact. The doctor says that he’ll take care of it after he makes a call to the police. She thanks him.
“Drifting off to sleep, exciting day behind you—”
She stops in front of Rainbow’s room. She takes a moment to steel herself for whatever lies beyond the door. With a deep breath, she steps inside. Her breath is immediately snatched away. Rainbow is completely covered in bandages; only her prismatic mane remains visible. Her heart aches at seeing Rainbow in this condition. Slowly she approaches the bed.
“Drifting off to sleep, let the joy of dream land find you—”
She pulls a chair up to the side of the bed. The chair creaks as she sits down. For the longest time she just stares at Rainbow. The heart monitor is the only clear sign that Rainbow is still, in fact, alive. She strokes Rainbow’s mane.
Her vision blurs as tears well in her eyes. Inside, it feels like somepony is trying to rip out her heart. They can have it; right now all it is doing is causing her pain. She blames herself for Rainbow’s present state. The pain is eating away at her. Why did she have to call out for her?
‘I’d never be able to forgive myself if I ever failed to protect you.’ Rainbow’s words echo in her mind. They’re trying to offer her comfort, but she refuses to accept them.
There are so many things that she wishes to say to Rainbow. Why did she wait so long to tell her that she loves her? There were numerous occasions in the past where she could’ve confessed, yet she never did. Now it may be too late to say all of the things on her mind. She may never get another chance to tell her how much she loves her, and perhaps that’s why she blames herself.
She begins to sing quietly, ‘Hush now, quiet now—’
“Hush now, quiet now, it’s time to lay your sleepy head. Hu-hush now, quiet now… i-it’s time to go to… bed.” Tears cascaded down her cheeks. “I’m so sorry, Rainbow Dash. I’m sorry that I never told you how I felt. I’m sorry that I may never get another chance to say I love you. I’m sorry, I’m just sorry!” She buried her face into the sheets and said, “Please open your eyes and come back to me!”
Fluttershy was startled when she felt something stroking her mane. She peered up and saw a pair of magenta eyes looking down at her. Her heart skipped a beat.
“Rainbow Dash!” she exclaimed, wrapping Rainbow in an embrace.
“Ow… not so tight,” Rainbow moaned.
“Oh!” Fluttershy loosened her hold. “I’m sorry!”
“It’s okay.”
“I’m sorry for everything!”
“Shy, I’m okay, you’re okay, everything’s fine.”
Fluttershy shook her head and said, “Rainbow, the doctor, he told me that because of your injuries, you may never fly again.”
Rainbow stared at her for a few moments before saying, “Pffft! What do doctors know? I am way too cool to stay grounded!”
“But what if you are?” For a second Fluttershy could see fear in Rainbow’s eyes. If she hadn’t known her for so long then she might have missed it.
“Then that’s the price I’ll pay.”
“But what about the Wonderbolts? I wouldn’t want you to miss out on your dream because of me.”
“I’d give up both of my wings before ever leaving your side. You mean that much to me. Besides what good are “what ifs”? Why are you crying?”
Fluttershy smiled. “I love you, Rainbow,” she said leaning forward.
“I love you t—” Rainbow was cut off when Fluttershy kissed her.
In this moment, Fluttershy made a choice. She wasn’t going to worry about the future. The future was an unpredictable beast. It didn’t matter what might happen later, only what happens now. However, no matter what life decided to throw at them she’d stay by Rainbow’s side. She’d show Rainbow the same loyalty that was given to her by the mare she loves, and she’d enjoy every second of it.
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I do wish rainbow would have killed that stallion.. but oh well. Its a good story I hate the rape but I'll get over it as I have had to many friends confess that it happened to them. I still wanna kill all of those people that hurt them..
Ah yes... that topic...
not one I like or feel comfortable reading about. But as this was a Flutterdash story, I read it. All the way through, despite my doubts when it got to the part of Fluttershy being followed home.
And do you know what? I think you pulled the story off. The ending was a little bittersweet because of what they both have to live with
but at least they can face it together. You hit the moments that counted, you didn't dwell upon anything that would make this appear as if somepony with a sick mind had written it and despite the odd setting we started in, I found the characters believable.
So, upvote and fave from me. And off to jail for that stuffed up stallion.
I usually do this review thing whenever I read a story where I mention things that I enjoyed, and things that I would like to see changed. I say this so that you know that even though I am going to criticize this, that doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy it
first of, things that I enjoyed:
I like your concept for this story, it speaks of purpose and understanding for people who have been in the same situations. Your fight scene was dark and gritty just like a real fight scene would be.
I liked this a lot, think because it is a very believable situations. you get nervous, you tend to forget things. Like how much cider is left in your mug.
now for the other parts:
wait a minute, wasn't that empty just a minute earlier? It would be nice to add in the part where rainbow orders a new drink or leave out the "gulped down her drink" part entirely.
If Fluttershy is running away she wouldn't have the time to watch the lights go on and the turn off. adding that part in makes the chase scene feel less... chasy? maybe something like "please, somepony help me" FlutterShy screamed, gasping for air from equal amounts of fear and physical exertion. she didn't have time too see if anypony had actually heard her.(or something similar
)
this scene felt a little disorienting to me, it would have been nice with some more descriptive narration so that I know exactly where dash is in relation to the stallion and how he is hitting her.
so in recap, you got some great concepts and scenes going for you here, if you want to improve I would probably think about trying to make them a little more immersive by putting the reader more in the characters shoes.(so to speak, ponies don't actually wear shoes
unless you count horseshoes
)
I hoped that helped you somewhat, and I hope I wasn't too rough(or wrong)
2912972
Thank you for the review. Don't worry you weren't rough, you were very constructive. I do like getting constructive criticism. It helps me improve my skills!
In this scene, Rainbow Dash is drinking out of Fluttershy's mug, not her own.
The other details that you suggested are quite good. I may just have to add more details. Thank you!
awesome story. you've got my feels, and favorite
I WAS FREAKING CRYING MY EYES OUT THINKING DASHIE WAS GONNA DIE YOU TROLL!!!!
Let me start off by saying, I am a sailor moon fan. Still am, I am also a fan of a lot of shows with women that are awesome. However, I have also seen fics where these badass girls would get raped and such, but the rapist would get away or another girl would help only for herself to get raped as well.
That is why this fic...is pretty dang awesome to me. Once again I find a pony fic where the rapist gets beaten by the girl, and does he get a chance to rape her, aw hell no! The girl manages to give him his commupance and deliver a beatdown that a monster like that deserves. At the same time, you were able to put the thoughts of what someone who got raped would actually think, a feat few writers will actually do when they consider putting in rape (most would do it just for the sex or erotica). Another good point in your favor.
However, the icing on the cake is the romance, where you put dash into a protector role and have her basically say, "I will give everything for you." While Flutters becomes another savior. That helps make this fic pretty well done, that and I could hear the voices, wich is always a plus in my book
2915270
Wow, I don't know what to say to that. You've made me speechless. I want to say something, but all I got just seems inadequate. So, just, thank you!
I wish I could think of something more to say, but that's all I got.
hi there, i just like to say that i reveiwed this stroy and would like to know what you thought of it sorry if this is an anoyance
heres the link to my page
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Slash-wing-my-little-pony-FIM/339895572794546
It's beautiful! The title is appropriate for the story.
Well done, you got me right in the feels.
Poor Fluttershy...
*sees cover art*
Badflank Rainbow Dash story YES PLEASE.
In all honesty, I thought you handled the rape well. Didn't go into too much detail while still leaving me wanting to emasculate the scumstain in the most humiliating way possible.
Phrasing was awkward in places, but the dialogue made up for it for the most part. It's a good sign when you can hear the character's voice in your head as you read.
RD and Shy, mutual protectors. Awesomeness.
2916319
Thank you for making the time to write a review! I thought you did pretty good. At the end I noticed that you said that you were confused about Fluttershy's rape. This actually surprised me. It's pretty heavily implied that she is.
Here are a few examples about what I'm talking about:
The biggest example in my opinion is this:
I hope this helps you understand. Keep on with the reviews!
Two things.
1) Amazing you made me feel emotions that battled each other, a spectrum of emotions from one fic that was a one shot.
2) I don't think the rape scene was vulgar or played wrong and it showed a side of RD that I think the show itself hasn't tapped into. Rainbow Dash has a real temper and a sense of loyalty I wish the show would play that out more showing RD using her amazing speed to be an offensive (as in fighter) character . RD has a black belt in the "Call of the cutie" episode when she teaches Applebloom martial arts. She also is seen destroying trees and a barn with just her feet. The fact is the way the fight held out was amazing and that bastard deserved just a bit more punishment then he got. That being said it was a great read.
2917603
I'm glad that you enjoyed it, and that I was able to make you feel something. As a writer that is my goal.
I'm also glad that you didn't think that the rape scene was vulgar. I tried my best to make sure that I did it right.
I too would like to see more of Rainbow Dash's sense of loyalty put to use in the show.
Ouch, right in the feels. So many emotions at once it's hard to know what they are.
I'm SO GLAD you didn't have Rainbow Dash die, too many FlutterDash fics like this have done that, and it breaks my heart every time. Thanks for the happy ending.
Oh, and i was thinking about that stallion. Would he have died? Because from the sound of things Rainbow hurt him even worse than he hurt her and she barely survived the journey to the hospital. The rapist had nopony to carry him to help, so he likely would have died, right?
2918546
You know it's funny that you mention Rainbow Dash dying, because that was originally going to be the ending, but I thought that would be too depressing and I wasn't satisfied with it. So I made a new one!
As for the stallion, you know that is a very good question. I hadn't actually thought about it. What did happen to that stallion afterwards? You know, it's possible that he could've died. Rainbow really did do a number on him. However, I think that he survived, if barely.
By the end of the fight Rainbow Dash is in a much worse condition then the stallion is, even if she won. You see, Rainbow ended up with more internal injuries then the stallion. So while she was definitely close to killing him, I think that he could've survived even on his own. Besides, I'm sure the police ponies will find him soon. It's kind of hard to move with a busted leg. Though, if you want to believe that he didn't make it then I most certainly wouldn't hold that against you.
Thank you for reading and asking your question!
This... was really great. Like, it made me go through so many feelings. Happiness, anger, sadness, warm fuzzies. Great job. I got all teary eyed at the end too, gosh dang it..
I was a tad confused throughout, but overall good read!
2921406
I'm glad you liked it. What were you confused about?
I loved the story and i had a personal connection with it since my mother and one of my best friends was raped. I was only able to be born because i came from my mothers rapist's semen. Also a couple of years back, i was walking around when i found my friend laying on the floor. I immediately called the cops and an ambulance to come and pick her up. I didn't leave her side until the cops got there. I kept her conscience and talked to her in order for her to not possibly die since she was very injured.I told her that i would do anything to help her and protect her but she said "Andrew, you don't need to do that." But i cut her off explaining that i didnt care, i would walk around with her wherever she went just so she has someone with her that she could relie on. For the rest of the year, we would walk around the neighborhood together, and talk about each others day. She was very happy until she found out that she was moving. From then on, i spent all the time i could with her just to keep her happy. I am not even sure if she remembers me to this day, but i am proud of my memories with her and i am proud that i helped her feel safer.
2933148
I am glad that you were able to connect with my story. When people tell me that they made a connection, it just makes my day. Speaking of stories, words can't describe how I feel about hearing your story. I feel very honored that you chose to tell me something so personal. So I just wanted to say, thank you!
I'm sorry to hear that your mother was raped, but I am glad that you were born. To do what you did for your friend, you are an amazing person. I'm sure that your friend remembers you. Again, thank you for sharing your story!
"Starts to read story" this is gonna blow.
"Finishes story" My god that was amazing!
Amazing story dude… I honestly couldn't give this piece of art less than a 10/10.
~/PonyDreams\~
2959500
You are too kind. I am glad that my story exceeded your expectations!
nice story. i don't see a lot of FlutterDash ship fics nowadays though. shame..
the rape part in the story made me shiver with rage. even mentioning it makes me go "RAMPAGE!"
wish that stallion would rot in jail.
once again, nice story dude!
This is the first story i read and boy,it had something i didn't expect
2960160
I'm sorry I take back my other review. This is a 11/10 story. If you don't agree with me then hear me out.
1: This story takes a really dark tone. It's not straight-up romance. So it's not like they don't have a true reason why they love each other so much. It's hard to find a FlutterDash as dark as this one. So that makes its a 10/10 for story.
2: This story really shows how much a real person would go to save the one(s) they love the most, and its not underdone or overdone to much. It's just perfect! It's like a heavy rain but for ponies. So a 10/10 for effort.
3: InkyShades… I can honestly say you have my 110 percent respect. You told everyone you tried to make the rape as light as possible, and you did that! You actually care about the community's feelings and try not to hurt anyone. So that's a 11/10 for the author.
Great job on the story Inky. I really hope you make more story's like this in the future.
2980899
Wow... just wow! You had me worried there for a moment. All I can say is thank you! Your review means a lot to me, and it pleases me that you took the time to write a second one!
1: This story does indeed take a very dark tone. Actually, I think that it's one of the darkest things that I've written. If I hadn't been browsing Deviantart one day, then this story probably would never have happened. The cover art I used really inspired me for this story.
You are correct in saying that it's hard to find a dark FlutterDash fic. In fact I don't think I've actually found one, yet.
2: I am glad that you think the portrayal in my story is realistic. I've been told before that I sometimes have trouble with my phrasing and such. So it pleases me to no end that I was able to effectively communicate what I wanted to say.
3: This right here. You are too kind to say such things about me. Thank you very much! I was actually worried about how my story was going to be received since it had rape in it. However, seeing everyone's positive reviews makes me feel very successful.
I am glad that you like my story. My mind tends to gravitate more towards the sad and dark so I'm sure that you'll see more fics with a similar tone to this one in the future.
2981066
Your welcome. I know I sound like a sap sometimes but this is really my favorite story. I also wanted to know if we could work on a story together. I have a BIG problem with wording my stories. Just a thought?
2981093 You don't sound like a sap to me. In fact, it makes me happy to know that my story affects you in such a manner.
Story collaboration you say? That is an interesting proposal. I have actually never done a collaboration before, though I have to thank you for wanting to work with me. I would need more information before committing to anything. Feel free to send me a pm giving me some details like:
What kind of story do you have in mind?
What would my role in this story be (co-author, editor, prereader, ect.)?
How would we do this collab, through g-docs? I've never actually used g-docs so if that's a yes then that might be a problem.
Anyway, feel free to throw in anything else that you think that I should know before hand. I look forward to your response!
Not going to lie, not a fan of flutterdash but you pulled it off and got me really invested in the story and characters, awesome job!
2999664
Thank you!
Read this story while listening to this:
Heart.exe has stopped working :_(.
3006843
Well I think that sums up my story nicely. It's like the song was made for it. Good find.
Also I believe that it fits best during the third section of my story.
3006962
How about it?
3006968
I sent a reply.
I've had to at least read this 10 times, and I cried every time.
honestly, i cried, but it was such a great story! i loved this story so much. i know what fluttershy went through, that's honestly kind what happened to me, except i wasn't going home. and i wasn't at a bar. xD anyways! awesome story!! you should write more! c:
3030889
I am sorry for you bro/sis… I know being a victim of a rape is not a easy thing to let your grip loose of, being one myself.
Stay strong…
3031535 i really don't dwell on it, i mostly look back and tell myself that i made it, and that i've survived up to this point. i really don't like to dwell on the past.
Twisted, Demented, Crazy and Sick.... I love it! This song remindes me of this story for some reason...
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=hDJrXC2qo5o
You do a good job writing these type of stories.
3480678
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it!
3481593
No Problem!
Wow, they have changed the look of the buttons on this site. Then again I am on my phone.
Anyway, I think this was well done.
I just found this again. I forgot to fave last time. I should fix that. I'll like it too. There should be a love button.
4595554 I'm glad you enjoyed it so much! Thank you for reading!
BRAVO!!
very well crafted, well written and very well handled. loved it
5188969
Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
having been in the situation that fluttershy found herself in here i can say you handled it beautifully. you portrayed the horror of it with a gentle sypathetic air that was very well done