> Her Whispers
>  by TheAtomicBomb
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prolgue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

She looked around, hoping nopony would notice her sudden exit from the party before stepping out into the garden. Her first steps through the double decker doors were nothing but relief. She could tell from the cold wind that spring was fast approaching.

“Phew” with no pony in sight she shook her mane loose from the intricate coils her mother had carefully crafted, and kicked off her shoes setting her pale yellow hooves onto the clouds, enjoying the pleasant crunching underneath her hooves. She wanted to relish Celestia’s setting sun and in silence without company. She just wanted to be alone right now. Walking away from the blaring music. She sat at the gardens edge, eyes closed. Enjoying the gentle breeze that rustled her skirts and whispered through her hair.

“Well, well, well. What are you doing out here miss Fluttershy?”
Startled, she turned to the voice, it was him....Prince Blueblood. Her Fiancé

“Oh” It's you. The last part she thought to herself. She looked down on the stallion, despite being younger she was a slight bit taller than him, but he was still very handsome by society's standards. Although Fluttershy didn't see the appeal. It was hard to feel an attraction after his constant teasing and harassing her, and it seemed like tonight would be no different.

“What do you mean ‘oh?’” He took one step towards her only for her to take a step back towards the party. “Don't you have anything to say to your fiancé? Typical Fluttershy thinking she’s better than everypony else.” The Pegasus didn't say a word. She knew if she did the stallion would just bully her more. “I suppose you're not in the mood to grace them with your presence.” He spat sarcastically gesturing towards the back the party. “So I decided to grace you with mine instead, aren't I such a sweet Lover?”

She hunched back. Not to sure on what to say or if she should say anything at all, but before she could find the answer; she let out a hiss at a sharp tug on her mane “Don't be rude Miss Shy” Looking up she saw blueblood looking at something behind her slack-jawed. It took the adolescent filly a second to realize it wasn't him pulling on her hair.
With another firm tug, her hair is tilted back to meet a pair of brilliant yellow pupils swallowed by a black inky abyss, sending a horrible chill down her spine causing her fur and feathers to stand on end. She wrenched herself away from this new stallions firm grip, pushing his hands away from her. “Honestly blueblood, you need to get a better hold of your fiancé” The centaur snickered letting a few strands of Fluttershy hair fall out of his hand and onto into the wind.
Blueblood scoffed and cast a dirty look to Fluttershy like it was her fault that they were interrupted. “Maybe your right” Fluttershy flinched at this and hid behind her mane.

“Yes,” Tirek shrugged, “Or maybe…” He reached for Fluttershy again and pulled her closer roughly by her wing “She needs a real stallion” He leered down at her causing her to try and shrink back. Tirek was towering over her threateningly. The young mare felt like a rabbit in a snake pit.

Blueblood reeled back. Wondering if he had misheard. “Excuse me?” Tirek nearly didn't even answer back, his attention was now on the whimpering Fluttershy

“Don't be such a stick in the mud, Blue. Kids are meant to share their toys aren't they?” a wave of disgust washed over the Pegasus and the unicorn. “You need a big guy like me to take care of you, obviously blue can't see a budding young mare. Isn't that right beautiful?”

Taking in a deep breath, she finally spoke up “Let go of me please”

Lowering his voice. The minotaur asked darkly “what?” He squeezed her wing harder making her wince. His grip was like a vice, purposefully sinking his nails into her delicate skin hidden beneath her feathers.

“Tirek” blueblood laughed nervously, the stallion was selfish and narcissistic but he had some form of conscious to say something “I think that you are going too far-”

“SHUT YOUR DIRTY MOUTH BLUEBLOOD OR I’LL SHUT IT FOR YOU!” He shouted, cutting the unicorn off as a sickening crunch echoed in the silence. Without breaking eye contact with his prey, he lifted her off the clouds surface by her wing. “What did you just say, Miss Fluttershy”

She had heard it, felt it.

Her wing was broken in his grip. Squeezing her eyes shut, she hiccupped, trying to find a way to cope with the pain. She wanted to get away from this monster. She wanted to scream and cry. Wetting her lips anxiously she whispered through her tears “P-please, let me go."

The centaur snarled causing the terrified Pegasus to cringe before a dark look crossed his features. "So, you want me to let you go?" He said, a sick grin appeared.

"No! What are you doing?!” She pounded her hoof against his large form as he forced her towards the edge of the garden. “P-please don't hurt me, just let me go! I won't tell anypony! PLEASE LET ME GGOOOOOOAAAAAAH!”

“TIREK, NO!” Prince Blueblood raced to the end of the garden and looked over its' edge searching for the Pegasus.

“What? She asked me to let go." Tirek shrugged.

Further down below Fluttershy desperately flapped her good wing in an attempt to right herself as she tumbled through the air. As she fell her heart felt lodged in her throat each labouring breath more painful than the last as the equestrian floor grew closer with each passing second.

"OH PLEASE CELESTIA, NOOO!" She cried, though the wind tore her words away.
Fluttershy's mind raced in fear begging somepony to save her, she didn't want to die! As she reached the treetops Fluttershy knew that she wouldn't be saved in time so she did the only thing she could. Closing her eyes she brought her hooves up to shield her face before she hit with a crack, sending her terrified mind to the depths of unconsciousness
> Chapter 1: It's all fun and games until...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

His uneven hoof steps could be heard pounding against the floorboards throughout the manor. Striding briskly pass the corridors clashing polka dot and floral wallpaper seemed to decay as he walked by. Like the very walls could sense his anger.

Grinding his back teeth to keep from roaring he reached the end of the glorified alley and kicked open the door to his "guest room". In all honesty, it should have been labelled the NEET room, with its current (and until this point permanent) occupant. Tirek. As he expected his cousin lay sprawled on a pile of dirty clothes and sheets cradling a bottle of apple cider in the crook of his arm.

He tried swallowing down his anger before he spoke. “Wake up, cousin. We need to talk” Several other discarded bottles clattered as the centaur tried to shield himself from the light coming through the open door. Cider in one hand, the other shading his eyes, the Tirek groaned and shifted deeper into his sheets, showing discord his back.

“It's the middle of the night. Talk tomorrow…”

“It’s 11 tolls in Luna’s night, Get up” Discord stormed deeper into the room. “There has been a grave accusation lodged against you Tirek, and I want to get to the bottom of it.”
Tirek groaned again. “Can't we talk about this later?”

Ripping the bottle from his cousin's grip Discord crossed his arms. “Baron Shy just paid me a visit. His daughter Fluttershy has been assaulted, and Prince Blueblood claims it was you who did it…”

That seemed to grab the centaurs attention. He dropped his hand and met his cousin's gaze. Discord thought he saw a glimmer of hope in those eyes. Lies...it had to be. He was positive his cousin would clear up this misunderstanding. Tirek blinked, to adjust to the light, or to recover from the shock of being accused of such a disgusting crime. “Blueblood claims what?” After a moment he drew back his lips into a snarl “That traitorous little b-”

“Tell me you didn't…” Discord barely recognised his own voice. “For Celestia’s sake, tell me you didn't do it!” he could feel his desperation labour his breath.

“Fine! I didn't do it! Now can I go back to sleep? I’m tired.” he replied, grabbing a nearby cover

“I don't give a flying feather that your tired." This time he tearing the covers from Tireks' grip. “A mare has been attacked. How can you be so aloof? Baron Shy is in a state and who can blame him?! I want the truth, and I want it now!”

“Pfft, what do I look like, one of those 'honest apples'?” the centaur grumbled lifting the empty cider bottle to search for that last drop.

“Now, Tirek.” Came the snarled reply.

“I didn't do her any real harm.” He groaned searching for another drink nearby.

Discord couldn't believe what he was hearing. “Any real harm? She was seriously injured and has a broken wing!"

“She deserved it” 

“What?” The response stunned the draconequus, how could his own cousin say such a thing.

“She was acting all high and mighty. She needed to be knocked down a notch” Tirek huffed “or a couple hundred.”
The draconequus nearly gagged he couldn't believe his ears “ You...you did it...didn't you? You crippled that poor mare”
Wanting the conversation to be over the accused closed his eyes. “Crippled? Oh please, I didn't do that much. Your such a softie, discord all I did was remind her of her position.”

"Didn't you hear me? Her wing is BROKEN!" Discord was growling now his hands itching to wring the colt's neck. “Because she rejected you?” All he got was a shrug in response. “How could you?” Starting to pace, Discord combed his mane back with shaking talons and then swung back around to stare. “What kind of monster are you? To harm helpless mare? You're near a thousand years old! She's practically a filly!”

“The same kind of monster you were not too long ago I guess." He sniffed causing the draconequus to flinch. "Besides she’s not helpless.” Gingerly touching a bruise along his jawline, which discord had failed to notice until now. Finally sitting up, he yawned lazily and pulled at his off-white dress shirt. This time discord caught sight at a small few specks of blood causing him to wince. How badly had he hurt the mare? "And she's no little filly. Not with that body."
Discord felt sick and defeated. Tirek was as rotten to the core, and nothing discord did will ever change him. “You're a horrible excuse for a Stallion” The draconequus whispered “Thank Celestia your parents and brother aren't alive to see you like this”

“Would you listen to yourself Discord? So I had a little fun. Let's say your right, and she is disabled now, you can bet she can't remember it now. I don't see what the big fuss is about, heck! look on the bright side. I made a new friend for Derpy Hooves.”

Tirek barely heard the bottle drop before he was slammed up against the wall held up by his throat as Discord roared in anger. Even though he was tall and seemed muscular, it was all a show. Tirek had never lifted a hand to do an honest day’s work in all the years he had lived with discord. His frantic efforts to free himself from Discord's grip were in vain, with and without magic. His face started to turn to a breathless purple before discord realized what he was doing and loosened his grip.

“By Celestia’s wrath, I could send you to Tartarus right now.”

“ You're insane!” Tirek croaked.

The statement just fuelled Discords anger. He knew that his worm of a cousin was spouting out insults for defence, but the word still stung him. “Not insane, Tirek. crazy. Crazy to think that I could believe in you. That maybe one day I could see what your brother saw in you. I’ve made excuses after excuses and bailed you out of trouble nearly all of your life. But not this time. Whatever cruel and unusual punishment the princesses chooses for you, I will be in full support of it.”

“I was just having a little fun!”

“Fun was turning the sun into an orange or making pigs fly, what you did was disgusting.” Discord let Tirek fall to the hard floor with a thud, as though the very thought of touching was disgusting. “What you did was just plain cruel” Yes, Discord had committed many sins in his past but never had he come so close to killing somepony. How must her parents be feeling tonight, knowing that their one and an only little girl was so cruelly attacked?

This time he could not defend Tirek. Sure, Discord made a few bribes here and there over the years. He had learned that nearly anypony could be bought if the offer was big enough from his own experiences. He had gotten the pathetic centaur out of trouble more times than he could count. But not this time.

He felt his anger boil at the bottom of his stomach, and he knew without a shadow of a doubt that he would kill the centaur if he didn't leave. “Get out,” he said softly. With a snap, a bag of gold bits fell into Tirek's lap. “Take it, pack your things and get out and never come back.”

“Out?” Tirek echoed “You're kicking me out the house? Don't be silly discord; we’re practically family! We always have each others back.”

Family? Discord glared at Tirek. His tattered clothes. He neglected to shave in a fortnight or so and had his light grey mane lazily swept back. All he saw was a monster. "Heh! Very funny." And for the first time since Tirek darkened his door, the centaurs cocky attitude deserted him.

“You don't mean it.” He pushed off the wall and shrugged to straighten his shirt. “Where will I go?”

"Ask somepony who cares." Discord turned to leave.

“Come on cousin! Give me a second chance!”

“Your out of chances. Don't you get it Tirek? This isn't one of our harmless pranks. This isn't like the time we turned the roads into soap or planted poison joke in the park’s flower garden." Discord spun around locking his glowing, enraged eyes on to Tirek. "You CRIPPLED a mare, She cant fly and maybe worse, How will she have kids? You've ruined her life. This can’t be fixed.”

Tirek threw his hand up in mock defeat "It's not like you cant fix it! With a snap of your fingers, she'll be her uppity little self again. Heck, I'll even take responsibility! I’ll sponsor that pathetic excuse for a mare!”

“Sponsor? with what money? Besides I wouldn't even cast your name on a dog.” With that, he turned to the door, adjusting his own shirt “If you're not gone before I return from the Shys' house I will hand you over to the law myself.”

“To the Shys'? Why in Equestria are you going there?”

“To try to make amends. Though only Celestia knows how. Being a Lord didn't give you a license to destroy other ponies lives Tirek. You have outstayed your welcome. Clear out before I set the Timberwolves on you.” and with that Discord left the room intending never to see his cousin again.
> Chapter 2: At first sight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Even though the Pegasus mare was meant to be in her room recovering, she was found sneaking into the pantry by a few of the maids. Apart from her and her brother none of her family or other nobles would come down here. Apparently, they didn't want to associate with “the help” Now huddled in the corner of the kitchen at the servants dining table. Stealing a quick glance at her wing made her winced. Through the scalding tears, she saw the bandages made her limb look like crumpled up paper. A sharp pain shot through her just by looking at it.

She decided to distract herself from the throbbing wing by looking outside through the kitchen window; the clouds seemed to sway in the breeze. Luna’s moonlit night frosted the front yard with silver, giving the shadows eerie outlines and making the most harmless thing somehow threatening. The muscles in Fluttershy’s wing twitched and knotted with relentless tension.

Even the air seeping in through the open windows seemed to be filled with menace. She knew it was silly but fiddling with her mane in her hooves, half afraid that Tirek might swoop down from out of nowhere and try to pull it and her wing. That was how it had seemed to of happened that afternoon.

I should have kept my mouth shut...That had to be the reason. She always said the wrong thing. Sinking her teeth into her bottom lip, she trembled as she remembered the fall, how her wings had failed her. That centaur- Tirek. She had seen him arrive at the party. She knew a bit about him. Like that he was a Lord and that he lived in a house bigger than hers on Equestria somewhere. Seeing him from a distance, he did look a little intimidating, but she has always been taught not to judge a book by its cover. That maybe he was a sweetheart on the inside. 

But he wasn't.

And he was still out there. Hiding somewhere in the darkness. Why had he hurt her like that? She remembered his eyes. It wasn't natural; she saw something horrible in his gaze. Something predatory.

“Your salad will be ready in a bit miss”  The injured mare jumped. She had almost forgotten that the maids had kindly offered to get her something to eat after finding her trying to sneak into the pantry. Fluttershy just nodded her thanks in acknowledgement still looking outside.

The last her family’s of guests were finally to leaving with either a buzz from all the “excitement” or frustration that her father refused to feed the uproar with rumours and gossip, asking the hired unicorn to undo the spell that allowed the non-unicorns to attend the party. With a clatter, Fluttershy looked down to see a crispy salad. She tried to take a few mouthfuls but hissed and groaned in pain with every bite. In the end, she decided to let the outside view consume her thoughts again instead.

There was still a foreboding feeling. He could be hiding somewhere out there. Why had he hurt her like that?

A flash of light and a hint of movement in the darkness caught the frightened mare’s attention. The shadowy figure was coming up the path. She drew closer, leaning on the window's ledge and couldn't help but notice the two large horns on the awkward shadow and a dark thought resounded through her aching head. It’s him! No, it couldn't be. Please, Celestia. Please, please, please. As if her silent prays would help. They hadn't several hours ago. She tensed up as fear flashed through her heart like lightning. Her body trembled, every nerve begging her to run.

Finally, in the light from the house, she was able to take a good look at the stallion. I-it’s not him… She had never seen such a creature before. Is that a Chimera? She silently cursed when the creature pulled it’s dark cloak tightly around itself as he started to approach the building. Just out of sight around the corner at their front door.

Unable to subside her curiosity she limped to the other end of the kitchen, moving as fast as her bruised body allowed her, and pushed the door slightly ajar. Its entrance was hidden behind a staircase, so she was able to just see the front door from the pantry. Heart hammering against her chest once the doorbell rang, she heard hoofsteps descend the stairs above her. It was her mother. Reaching the last step, Lady Shy flew up to the door and tore it open ready to shout, thinking it was another drama hungry guest.

“Yes...Hello…” his voice was just as unique as his appearance or at least from what Fluttershy had seen. His voice wasn't quite baritone or gravelly as it held a soothing edge at the end of each of those words. Discord…His name is Discord...To his credit, he wasn't surprised when he wasn't greeted Mrs Shy at the door. She looked tired and stressed.

Mrs Shy's greying mane was shades darker than her daughter's pastel pink, having a raspberry tone to it. The curls were swept up and twisted into a tidy knot. As if to hide the fact she had been crying her puffy cerise eyes had been covered by another layer of make-up. It hadn’t worked, giving her pale yellow coat a grey undertone which only added more depth to her exhaustion. She was startled to see him but managed to hide it fairly well. The only give away was her brushing off the imaginary dirt on her magenta skirts. ” To what do we owe this... honour?” She had addressed him in a stiff and formal manner, but the last word sounded as though it nearly made her gag to say it.

Fluttershy had never seen her mother like this. So broken and exhausted. Especially in front of company. Some part of the younger Pegasus couldn't help but blame herself for her mother's state. It had only been a few hours ago when her Mrs Shy was donning a warm smile that could have competed with Celestia’s sun itself. She was about to turn away from the two and back into the kitchen not being able to stand the guilt, until he spoke again. 

“I came to speak with your husband. I trust he’s home?” Nodding Lady Shy opened the door more widely, beckoning him into the foyer, though the look she shot him as he made his way past her said she would like to kick him back outside. But Fluttershy was too absorbed by him to notice. He was wearing black, which was a prevalent colour amongst stallions. “Pardon my intrusion my Lady” He bowed once Mrs shy had landed back on the marble flooring. She didn’t reply whether she had nothing to say or refusing to acknowledge him she started towards the stairs. It did not go unnoticed that her mother hadn’t offered Discord a chance to remove his cloak or have one of the servants hang it up somewhere.

Following behind her Discord shrugged off his cape, revealing more black and draped it over one of his arms. Using the other to hold onto the bannister as he made his way up the stairs. Fluttershy eased out of the concealed door a bit more wanting to get a better look at him. What beautiful scales She was looking at his tail, her gaze crept up until she spotted his vermillion tie. That colour really suits him she nearly managed to crack a small smile before she realised he had stopped walking up the stair and was staring right back at her.

Looking down and over the railing, he saw the pale gold pegasus. Her teal orbs had travelled through several emotions over the span of a few seconds. Disappointment, awe, surprise, satisfaction, shock and now he thought he saw a hint of dread or fear. It hurt him to see such pretty eyes look at him like that. Though he could hardly blame her after everything, she had been through today. She had a busted lip, and few ugly bruises had surfaced on one side of her face, shoddily covered with a blue ointment. I’m guessing that’s Fluttershy. She hid behind her mane, a part of him knew he was making her uncomfortable by staring at her, but he couldn’t help it. Something at the back of his mind was telling him to. Asking him to notice something. This time she took a nervous step back before quickly ducking back into the unseen door.

“Are you coming, my lord?” He didn't answer Mrs Shy at first, still looking over the railing, trying to collect his thoughts and composure. “My lord?”

“Yes,” he finally sighed tearing his gaze away from where Fluttershy had been standing “Please lead the way, Mrs Shy.”
> Chapter 3: Behind closed doors...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Standing alone in front of Mr Shy’s study, Discord was starting to break out into a cold sweat. Usually, he was self-assured and oblivious to what others might think of him, but he couldn't help but feel every disgusted and angry glare Mrs Shy had thrown his way before leaving him to stand like a fool in the corridor. Like I wasn't hated enough. On the other side of the door he could hear the climax of a heated argument.

“Why are we just sitting here doing nothing?!” The voice had cracked. The other speaker had murmured an inaudible response. “MY SISTER HAS JUST BEEN ASSAULTED! DON’T TELL ME TO CALM THE BUCK DOWN!" Discord winced to that part, he had been working up the courage to knock the door, but any confidence he had built up by then had been swiftly knocked down. “Fine! I’m going to go see what the doctors are saying!” The door was ripped open by a seething aquamarine stallion. Unlike Fluttershy, Discord had known of her younger brother, Zephyr Breeze for sometime. He had a reputation for his outlandish spending habits and party life. Despite being labelled as the black sheep of the family, he had an uncanny resemblance to his father. Especially from his younger years.

As if the older Pegasus had heard Discord think his name he appeared behind his son. Zephyr opened up his mouth ready to verbally batter the unwanted visitor, just to be interrupted by the baron. “You are excused Zephyr” The adolescent Pegasus didn't leave straight away, working his shadowed jaw side to side as if he was getting ready to spit in Discords face or swallow his anger. If Mrs Shy had looked exhausted, Zephyr looked like a wreck. Like his mother, he kept a bun upon his head. But his looked messy, a few loose strands hung lazily around his chiselled face and his clothes were in a worse state than what Tirek’s had been. Apparently, as soon as he found out what happened to his sister he had practically dived down through the clouds after her and came back up with her limp and bloodied in his forelegs a few minutes later.

“You're a-”

“You are excused Zephyr” Mr Shy repeated himself sternly, this time glaring at his son. His son glared back. “I will handle this.” As if he didn't believe him Zephyr kept the fire behind his eyes. “I may not be as bold as you, Zephyr, but don't you worry…” As if somewhat satisfied the young stallion stormed off the way Discord had came, refusing to give either of the older stallions another second of his time or energy.

Along with his son, all pleasantries had left Mr Shy “Come.” As they entered more tension crawled up discords back. The study was very like his own, though it was lacking the polka dotted wallpaper, a sneezing piñata, flying novels and overall chaos. Mr Shy's study was orderly with the exception of a few papers and books thrown about the floor. Most likely out of anger. There were comfortably cloud stuffed chairs positioned strategically around a muted rainbow rug. The far end wall held a burning fireplace with a small collection of clouds sitting on top of its mantlepiece.

In front of that sat a work desk. All this installed neatly between two walls with large windows and any other free space filled to the brim with leather bound books. Firelight flickered cheerily in the grate, their only other light source came from Luna’s moonlight leaking in through the statement windows.

Discord shivered and decided to stay standing but dropped his cloak onto one of the chairs How can anypony live in all this...order? Mr Shy sat behind his desk his white collar shirt rumpled, the collar open and his cravat loosened. Many who didn't know the baron would call him shy or a coward. Only those who cooperated in his business practices knew how relentless he could be. Which Discord had in the past. The Pegasus had worked his way up from the slums of a common pony to the title of baron. He was a foe to reckoned with. No matter what his title. A tendril of smoke drifted up from an ashtray near his elbow, accompanied by a small glass of strong apple cider.

“Discord,” Mr Shy spoke wearily. “I take it you’ve spoken with Tirek?”

He didn't need a crystal ball to know where this conversation was going. Both Discord and Mr Shy saw no reason to debate Tirek’s involvement in the attack on Fluttershy.

“Yes” The lord of chaos still hadn't taken a seat, nor was he going to, the unnerving feeling still hadn't left Discord, and the steady gaze that Mr. shy had stuck on him wasn't helping. He swallowed and scrubbed the side of his mouth with the back of his claw. “To my dismay, Tirek did it” he finally blurted. “I’m here to sincerely apologize for what he did and make amends anyway I possibly can”

“Yes?”

An awkward silence hung in the air between the air, encouraging discord to carry on talking “I completely understand if you would like to prosecute and I won't interfere-”

“Prosecute?” resting both elbows on his desk, the baron released a dark chuckle. “I wouldn't dare” Unlike Discord's, Mr Shy’s voice was completely soft, yet some how held an edge to it. “How could I do that to the draconequus that helped me achieve so much? and furthermore what good would it do us to make an enemy out of one of our most influential business partners?” He put his two hooves together and rested his chin on them. At that admission, he laughed louder though this time there was no feeling behind it.

Now Discord’s guard was up. Nopony got something for nothing. How much will this apology cost me?

“I appreciate the sentiment but I'm not sure your lack of interference would change anything nor will it be necessary”

“I don’t follow” Discord watched the Pegasus flutter out of his chair and to the fireplace mantelpiece, a turquoise hoof stroked the glass to one of his prized cloud collection.

“I suppose I am not making much sense, am I?”

“Where’s the fun in making sense?” the draconequus replied unconsciously, before Discord could curse himself for such an aloof answer he saw the corners of Mr Shy’s snow-white moustache curl up ever so slightly revealing a small shadow of a smile.

“Quite” The baron had now turned his attention back to Discord. “Did you know that all of these clouds are a piece from my most successful factories? All seven of them are an indication of my hard work, my drive, my ambition,” He landed on some of the askew papers letting them rustle at his hooves as he made his way back behind his desk. “And my sacrifices...I’ll get right to the point Discord. Yes, I would do anything for my kids, I love the bones of both of them. But I am not stupid enough to make such strong enemies when I’m so close to retirement, just to destroy my businesses and leave my family like sitting ducks”

“But I just said I won't interfere, you can call on the very princesses if you wanted to” Discord was gesturing towards the window as if the Alicorns would somehow appear out of thin air.

“I wasn't talking about you. Tirek is a Spiritual Lord, just bellow royal status, with his own dealings and relationships. If I were to prosecute do you really think his friends would take that sitting down? Not to mention the punishment itself. A hundred years in jail or on the moon? To you 'immortals' that’s practically a month and a half.”

Discord grimaced, the Pegasus wasn't wrong “But her engagement to prince blueblood might allow some more wriggle room with the law on your part”

“Bah,” Mr Shy scoffed “What a charming prince indeed, to sit there and watch as my daughter was flung off the edge of my garden.” Discord was about to say that he had heard that Blueblood had tried to intervene but thought better of it. He just nodded.

“So you’d prefer to leave as it is then?”

“That I do, Discord” The voice was far from losing its edge despite addressing his guest familiarly by his first name.
Even though it was Tirek’s salvation, Discord couldn't help but feel as though it was a misjudged decision. If Tirek had attacked one mare what was to say he wouldn’t hurt anypony else. Discord pointed this out.
“That's not my problem. I refuse to put my family in any danger, besides, there has been enough damage to my reputation and yours from this hasn't there?”

It was relentless. But Discord could find no argument, not any that he would be willing to bring up anyway. He couldn't think of anything to say except “I am sorry, Mr Shy. I truly am”

The Pegasus sighed “Yes, I know you are. So am I” Their gazes met one last time, this time it didn't feel awkward.
“If there should be any complications or if anything does arise, please call me"

“I entrust you to undo the damage done to my daughter” This was hardly a surprise to Discord. With a snap of his fingers, the girl would be as right as rain.

“Of course”

“Good. Then please close the door on your way out.” It was a rude end to their conversation, but they were hardly there for idle chatter.

Like clockwork behind him, the door opened revealing a orange unicorn with white spots. “Hello!- um sorry for uh interrupting”

“It’s fine, Sunburst. Discord was just leaving”

“Oh! Okay then, it’s just that my air balloon just arrived and everyone has already left so I will be performing the spell on my leave” The unicorn pushed his glasses back up his nose.

“Well at least one thing went according to plan tonight, thank you for your service, Sunburst”

“No problem...I’m sorry about what happened to your da-”

“Yes, thank you” The draconequus knew it was time to leave. Picking up his cloak, Discord turned to exit out of the study after the unicorn but was stopped by Baron Shy’s last words. “Oh, and rest assured my lord, I’ll be in touch if it should prove necessary.”

Closing the door behind him Discord wasn't able to see Mr Shy’s façade crumble away to show a distraught and pained stallion. Doubting the decision he just made.

As the door closed behind him Discord took a deep breath. That went smoother than expected Having just closed his eyes to collect himself when the vermillion unicorn interrupted his train of thought. “Um, I’m sorry my lord, but I think we should get going. I’m about to undo the spell allowing non-pegasi to walk here.”

“Don't worry about me I’ll be fine” Discord wrapped his cloak around himself when a thought came to him. “You didn't happen to see Miss Fluttershy around here did you?”

“Miss Fluttershy? Sure, I had walked past her just a few minutes ago. Two doors down and make a left” Sunburst motioned down the corridor with a hoof.

“Thank you. Have a lovely evening, Sunburst” He hadn't even stayed to finish that sentence, he called out the last part behind him, over his shoulder as he speed-walked in the direction the young stallion had directed him in. 
As soon as he turned left, he saw her. She was sitting on the floor in front of a large glass doors that led out onto a large balcony. Looking up at the moon.

Discord took this as an opportunity to get a better look at her. Her mane was a pale rose colour which complimented her pale gold coat that still sported a few severe bruises. What is she thinking about now? How do I handle this? He walked a bit closer, blanching at the sight of her wing. Seeing his reflection on the glass, Fluttershy turned around with a gasp. Her tears had left her cheeks stained. She was now standing frightfully still, the only sign of movement was the twitching of her wing. Coughing into his paw he tried to start a conversation. "Hello, there" giving a small wave.

When he didn't receive an answer, he tried again “Good evening Miss Fluttershy. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Discord, Lord of chaos, I just had a talk with your father.”

Not even a peep. At the very most she did move, but further into the corner. “I am here to offer my apologies and heal your wing” He saw her lips move. “What was that?” Rather than repeat herself, she gave a small nod fiddling with her hair and looking at her eggplant dressing gown's hem, as if it were the most interesting thing in all of Equestria. That colour doesn't suit her at all “Right then. Just stay like that” with a snap of his fingers her bandages were gone, along with any cuts and bruises.

It took Fluttershy a few seconds to realise what had just happened. The pain was gone. She stretched out her wing in awe. Gently flapping it to make sure it worked, she blinked back up at Discord. Gaping. Honestly, what is she thinking right now? "Does it feel better?" She gave a few flaps of wings before trying to look at her back to see the base of her wings. Turning trying to catch a glimpse of it. Discord bit his lip to stifle a small laugh, She looks like a puppy chasing her tail Having heard him the young mare looked back up at the chimaera and blushed. Realising how silly she must have looked just then. "Shall I take that as a yes" quirking an eyebrow at her. She nodded shyly.

They found themselves staring at each other again. The petite Pegasus fidgeted under the Lord's gaze as though he was looking for something from her. T-that's right I should say thank you... A pink tongue darted out and slowly swept across her bottom lip where a small cut had been. She brought her head back up to make her eyes meet his again a tiny thank you on the tip of her tongue. The words didn't come. Instead of her eyes meeting his he noticed his attention a few centimetres lower, on her now wet lips. A warm glow returned to her cheeks, and a slight shiver worked its way up her spine.

“Miss Fluttershy I-Whoa!” He couldn't even get another word out as she ducked between his legs and escaped through a door on their left. “Wait! Fluttershy!” He gave chase only to have the door slam on his paw. “yeeeEEEOUCH! Fanning his paw to numb the pain.

The draconequus reluctantly pulled away from the door and leaned against the wall behind him. He facepalmed. Well done, Discord. You scared her off. He peeked between his talons back at the door, releasing a sigh and click of his fingers, he disappeared from the corridor. Whatever.

Fluttershy’s ear was to the door. She bit her bottom lip feeling a little guilty for running away like that, but the look he gave her... It was a little like that horrible stallion Tirek's. It may have lacked the evil and malice the centaurs had, however, it still had something predatory behind them. He seemed nice though looking back at her wing she felt a small warmth in her chest, she remembered his voice. She looked around the empty closet she was in and sighed. I'm acting silly aren't I? Peeking around the door, she sought out the tall creature. Only to find him nowhere in sight. huh? He was just here. Realising that she was now alone in the corridor she went back to the glass door, and pushed.

Taking a deep breath, she took in the crisp night air. Her hair billowing behind her in the wind. Spreading both wings, she cast a long shadow behind her, stepping out on to the balcony. She started flapping her hooves had started to lift off the ground, a small smile forming on her lips. Then she felt it, the icy wind that had tore into her when she fell, the pitiful stares. The severed bond between herself and her own wings, the unspoken promise from birth that they would hold her whenever she fell, to carry her when she could no longer walk. The one thing she knew she could trust, have faith in, had failed her. Just like then, an intense pain shot through her wing making her collapse with a thud.

She looked back at her wing laying limp over her as if to apologise for dropping her again. I-I can't take this anymore. Hiding her face in her hooves once more she broke down and cried. The howling wind deafening her wails just like they had done with screams and prayers the previous day.

Discord had kept his word, he had healed Fluttershy's wing.

Yet the broken Pegasus still could not fly.
> Chapter 4: An issue we cant ignore and an offer he can't refuse
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“You’ve got to be kidding me!”

“No, sister.” 

“But she’s been through so much! Their love has to blossom to heal her shattered heart and soul!”

“Yeah well, get over it.”

“I waited a year just for another cliff-hanger!?” Celestia slammed her book down on to the small metal framed table, That sat squarely in the middle of the empty balcony that overlooked the castle garden and beyond that their flourishing kingdom. Causing their teacups to rattle. "Why did you give me spoilers!?” she folded her forelegs in a huff and glared at her unfazed sister. 

“A year isn't that long, and I told you so I wouldn't have to listen to you whine for the next nine months until the next book is released. Your unhealthy obsession with a fictional Spanish hunk of a stallion is very disturbing sister. Even your star pupil Twilight Sparkle seems to feel awkward when you discuss that book series.” Princess Luna pointed to the book accusingly giving a slightly disgusted look at the title ‘Their Reflections.’ 

“I am saddened that you can not see the beauty of this tale Luna.” The older princess sighed, still adamant to read and defend her novel.

“You hated it too until Princess Cadence forced you to read her copy.” 

“I'll admit that I am not a fantastical theories or romancing history, but it's an engaging read. I suppose you could say I was…” The elder princess bit her lip trying to hold back a giggle.

“Please, don't.” 

“Shown the light!” 

“Uuuurg” The sisters shared a restrained smile before breaking out into a fit of giggles. After the many years that had past under their, they had learned to appreciate the small moments of happiness that they had such as this. As the laughter subsided, the Princesses resumed their usual royal façade. “Speaking of Love, how is Cadence?"

"She is well. However, I am concerned about the number of nightmares, you found surfacing in the crystal kingdom last time." 

"Yes, apparently it is starting to become quite a problem. We are beginning to think they have something to do with the ominous clouds that have started to pop up."

"Can't you do anything about it?" Celestia pleaded.

"It is very complicated and risky." 

"I wish I could help you, but the night and sleep realm are your domain. It would be so much easier if we were still connected to the elements of harmony." They sighed in unison, trying to brainstorm a solution. Celestia's ear's perked up as an idea sprang to mind. "Perhaps Mr Shy could do something about it." 

"The Baron?"

"Yes. With the daughter that Blueblood was engaged to"  A smile began to form on Celestia's lips.

"That is not a bad idea, sister. However, will he be willing?" The younger princess's question caused her sister's grin to falter.

"What do you mean?" 

"Well, from what I can remember... They didn't sever their engagement on the best of terms." Now the ivory alicorn was wincing. Recalling their nephew's....'passionate' description of the young mare as a 'Broken, uppity, thick, mute Pegasus that can’t even fly' as well as his blatant refusal to continue the Shy's business. Luckily it wasn't said to Mr Shy's face. But a strongly worded letter. 

However, Mr Shy's response to Blueblood was even more memorable. Celestia shivered thought. “It is very worrying, especially now that the Shy family has grown more influential over these short few years. They are a key feature in our economy, with wealth that is starting to rival ours."

"Cancelling their engagement was for the best. Money is power and power like that in, Bluebloods hooves would have been dangerous." Luna used her magic to refill her sister's now empty teacup. "But with them not technically living on Equestria, we have no true leverage over them."

"Well, that was what the engagement had been for," Celestia stated. They both hummed in thought.

A soft yellow hue wrapped itself around her steaming cup of tea levitating it up to her lips “And the business falling into her brother’s hooves is just as dangerous” This murmur was followed by a slow sip.

“Her brother?” Luna’s brow furrowed in thought trying to remember if there was such a stallion. 

Celestia nodded “Zephyr Breeze.”

“Zephyr!? You mean that loose cannon?” 

“Exactly, A stallion such Zephyr, I am sorry to say cannot be trusted with his father’s organisation. That's why It is essential that they join our court and soon.”

“Why? What’s the rush?”

“Mr Shy’s retirement, of course. We want the cloud situation, neutralised, as soon as possible.”

"Then maybe we should try the engagement plan again." Luna offered.

"Like you said before, I highly doubt that Mr Shy will be eager to re-evaluate Bluebloods personality," Celestia said picking up her tea again.

"Why must it be Blueblood?" Luna questioned. Celestia paused mid-sip and eyed her sister over the brim of her floral teacup. "As long as its anypony within our court, then it's fine. Correct?"

Setting her cup back on the table, Celestia flashed her sister one of her biggest smiles. "Correct" she confirmed. “We can offer Fluttershy a debut and her pick of suitors.”

"Her pick?" Luna's brow furrowed in confusion before all the pieces finally clicked together. “I see, You mean quality control because you intend to make Mr Shy pass on his organisation to his son in law instead.” It was a statement rather than a question.

Dabbing her lips dry with a napkin nearby, the ivory Alicorn sat up and looked at her beloved sister. “It's a plan then. First, we finish tea, then send out a letter to the baron.”

“You make that sound easy, might I remind you, Tia, that the baron is not somepony who gives something for nothing. Especially the hoof of his one and only daughter.”

“Hmmm, you are right about that sister” This time it was Celestia's turn to go deep into thought as she struggled to meet a conclusion her royal partner came up with an idea. 

“Well, from what I have understood about the baron. It sounds like he has the money and the reputation but...” Luna looked into her untouched teacup. Her reflection cast in the murky now lukewarm water. Tracing a midnight blue hoof across the bags under her eyes. 

“Luna?” Looking back up in response to her name, she saw how Celestia's concerned gaze reach across the table to her. Looking for what was wrong. Instead, Luna’s conflicted expression misted over replaced by a sly and playful smirk, which turned to admire the view over the balcony wall. It was almost time for a new day.

“ I think we give the baron an offer he can’t refuse...”
> Chapter 5: Guess who's home? Guess who's leaving?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After the incident, the young mare seated at her bedroom's vanity mirror had been 'temporarily.' relocated out of Cloudsdale onto the ground below due to her inability to fly. Despite the pitying glances thrown her way continuously, Fluttershy was okay. Now she could walk around without the fear that the clouds would part beneath her hooves and let her fall. She picked up her brush that rested on her lap and started to detangle her mane. Sitting on the edge of her queen size bed that nested against the wall she was able to see her reflection in the vanity mirror that sat across from her. She watched the brush slide through her mane; It's soft bristles massaging her scalp; she closed her eyes. Relishing the sensation. Peace and quiet.

She jumped as her bedroom door banged open "GUESS WHO'S HOOOOOOME!?" Zephyr Breeze bellowed announcing his arrival. He then smiled shyly, when he saw his sister, without clothes and mane tangled in a brush that dangled in front of her face with her hooves over her pounding heart "Oops."  he muttered walking in and gently freed her rosy locks from the brush. "Sorry flutter butter" He cooed " I didn't mean to scare you." he put the brush back on the vanity and pulled a comb from his pocket instead. They fell into a comfortable silence as the comb's teeth eased through his younger sisters hair until it was as smooth as butter.

He reached for a box of hairpins on the vanity's dresser top but was stopped by a pale yellow hoof on his turquoise one. He looked up into the mirror and smiled at his sister through the reflection. 

In the past few years of Fluttershy's silence, she had been able to get her point across without the need of words, and her brother had learnt to understand. "I know you don't like wearing your hair up, but I also know your in no mood to argue with mother." 

He watched his sister's face squish into an adorable pout. He squished her face more between his hooves and kneaded away at her cheeks. Leaning down to rest his chin on her shoulder. He raised an eyebrow at her through the mirror with a cocky grin plastered on his face. "Right?" 

He didn't expect a verbal answer. But he also didn't expect her to squish his face back and forced them to make funny faces at their reflections. He let out a hearty laugh and felt Fluttershy's shoulders shake in her muted giggles. "I swear, no matter how many years pass you two are still my cute little foals." The siblings turned to the soft voice coming from the door.

"Hi, mum!" 

"You mean hello mother" Lady Shy sighed, causing Zephyr to release a small chuckle.  He knew how much his mother hated slang, as an 'old-fashioned pony. The three of them pulled each other into a warm hug. 

"Well since your both here! I can get your gifts!" Mother and daughter gave a small smile and shook their heads in disbelief as Zephyr raced through the door. 

"I worry about him and his spending habits. But I'm happy to see you smiling sweetie." The polite statement made Fluttershy hide behind her mane bashfully.  "Here sweetie, let me help you put your hair up." Fluttershy knew better than to argue.  With the last pin in place, Zephyr re-entered the room with a servant carrying a plethora of brightly coloured boxes on his back, varying in size. All beautifully wrapped. He trudged behind the young master under the weight of it all towards the two mares. 

"I just know you girls are going to love them!"  He punctuated his statement with a flourish startling the serving Pegasus to drop a few parcels. "Oops...Sorry" 

"Yes, still a little foal." She and Fluttershy went to help the overworked pony, who excused himself after picking up and stacking the boxes. Catching a glimpse of fabric in one of the boxes that had opened in the fall, Mrs Shy exclaimed "Oh! Are the rest of these clothes, Zephyr?"

The colt turned to his mother and smiled. "That's right. I met a young mare in Canterlot and-"

"A young mare!?" His mother interrupted beaming at her son. 

"Calm down mum, Rarity and I are just friends."

"Oh?"  A hopeful smile plastered across their mother's face, unnerving the young stallion. 

"Yes." He said assertively "Strictly platonic."

"Oh," Her mother said again in a slightly disappointed tone.

Zephyr shot his sister a worried look. She gave a reassuring smile and a twirl of her hoof, motioning him to continue. "Um- anyway, Rarity is really into fashion and a very generous pony, so when I asked her to help me find gifts for you two, she was more than willing to comply. She was able to find the latest fashions for the best prices." 

"She sounds lovely. I just have to meet her; perhaps she could help me update my wardrobe." 

"I am sure she will be more than happy to."

"Oh my! what's all this?" Mr shy fluttered into the room over the pile of gifts, with a file tucked beneath his arm.

"Hello, love. Zephyr is home and bought a few gifts with him." Lady shy explained showing one of the dresses that had fallen out of the boxes. Fluttershy trotted over to her brother and kissed him on the cheek as thanks.

"How... generous of you, son." Baron Shy said carefully. Ever since the incident, their father-son relationship had grown more delicate. It always felt the two stallions were tiptoeing around each other. "And amazing timing, as always."

"What do you mean dear?" Mrs shy inquired. 

"Ah, yes. I have good news for you Fluttershy" Her father walked towards her stroking the snoring rabbit in her arms. He looked up into her eyes. "As you know after Blueblood, we wanted you to take a break from society. But now I think it has been long enough, and the princesses have offered to host your return. 

"Oh, Love! That's amazing!" With the parents smiling at each other, the nervous look shared between their children remained unseen.

"And there's more. There have been several offers for your hoof in marriage via the princesses themselves!" Mr Shy grinned proudly.

"No!" The ponies looked to Zephyr, shocked by his sudden outburst. "You always do this"

"Oh dear..." Mrs Shy went to stand next to her daughter. Out of the readying argument. 

"Don't raise your voice, Zephyr."

"I bloody well will raise my voice! Especially because Fluttershy can't! You're not going to force my sister into marriage just because it suits you."

"It is not Like that, Zephyr! We have had this argument before!" Mr Shy shouted, finally losing his calm demeanour.

"OOOoooooh riiight" the younger stallion sang sarcastically. "I forgot this is all business to you right? Selling your daughter off like your stock." 

"Celestia help me, Zephyr I-"

"Sounds like she already has! What was the offer this time? Land? Money? or maybe-"

Feeling her daughter shrink away from the raised voices, Lady Shy stomped her hoof on the hard marble flooring that echoed throughout the bare room. "Both of you stop this! Your scaring Fluttershy!" The Ponies went silent and settled their passionate stares onto the cowering mare. 

"I'm sorry Fluttershy. But the decision has already been made. Besides, surely you realised that this would happen one day?" Mr Shy pleaded only to feel his heart break at the sight of his daughter shift further back to hide behind his wife and give a small nod. "Your mother and I won't be around forever; I know that Blueblood was a mistake. But you'll have a say in things this time. Okay, pumpkin?" He tried to reason with her but seeing the tears starting to form in his little girl's eyes he felt a numbing pain in his chest. Looking around the small room he saw the boxes stacked on the bed. He winced, feeling as though he had ruined yet another happy moment. "This is obviously a lot for you to digest all at once so your mother and I will leave you to think about it. 

As quickly as they had stepped in Mr and Mrs Shy exited the room leaving Fluttershy to race into her brothers arms for comfort.
> Chapter 6: A simple response
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The small purple dragon banged on the door to Discord's study for the fifth time; his impatience was starting to boil over. It had been two weeks since the princesses had him send the first letter of invitation to Lord discord. After the first two letters, it became a recommendation. Now the adolescent dragon held a blank sheet of paper and quill in his free claw, for the Draconequus response. 

"Discord! Open up! It's been a freaking week! Just give me an answer to give to the princesses!" He jumped when the golden doorknob transformed into a familiar ghastly looking face. 

The doorknob glared at the young drake "I have already given you my answer, Spike. It's just that you and your prissy princesses refuse to accept it as such. I do not wish to attend. so..." With that, the door handle stuck its snake-like tongue out and blew a raspberry at him before converting back to its non-sentient form.

"Any luck sugar cube?" Spike turned around to see the orange mare Applejack trotting down the empty corridor to him caring a freshly baked batch of apple fritters on a silver tray on her right hoof. Close to breaking the quill in his frustrated grip, Spike snorted a puff of green smoke. "Ah'll take that as a no." 

"He is so stubborn!" 

"Eeeyup"  

"I've been here for three weeks Applejack. I have a life you know. I have a hundred and one things to do yet I am here trying to get that single minded stallion to write a single response." 

"Well if he did say no then..." The young mare trailed off not wanting to offend the small lizard. 

"It's past no now Applejack. It's not just Princess Celestia and Princess Luna that has requested his presence, but now that it has been revealed to be the Shy's banquet it has become mandatory." Spike sighed before glaring at the door and raising his voice in hopes that his Lord would hear " But why they would want such a rude and annoying stallion to attend such an occasion is beyond me!"

"You know I can hear everything that you are saying without you having to scream at my door." 

Applejack yelped at the talking fritters and dropped the platter to the floor, dirtying her apron. One of the pancakes sprouted a pair of arms and legs, turning to the troubled twosome. Both the mare and dragon spotted and recognised the sharp snaggle tooth on the pastry's face. 

"Gosh darn it discord! you scared at least a third of the life outta me!"

The fritter shrugged its tiny shoulders before picking up one of his fallen brethren. " Anyway, what was that about the Shy's?" It bit into the other fritter that started to scream out in agony, yet the cannibal just settled a calm stare onto Spike who was cringing away at the scene of cannibalism taking place right in front of him. 

"I-uh, it's the Baron's daughter, Fluttershy. It is a gala to celebrate her re-entering into society." 

The pancake was scowling now. Its skin was crumbling away, as something oozing out of its nooks and crannies onto the wooden floor. "And tell me, Spike" it was now choking and crushing the other crying fritter into mush. While the others were crawling towards the speaker. clawing at his skin and climbing on top burying each other underneath the other "Why..." They spoke in unison. Applejack had already taken a few steps back while Spike cowered at the lump of batter transfiguring into a well-known disfigured form. "Weren't we informed of this..." The many voices had fused one. "BEFORE!?!" Discord bellowed. 

Hiding behind his single piece of parchment Spike stuttered his reply. Now regretting his earlier annoyed tone. "It was a secret to the p-public until now." He didn't have to look over the sheet of paper to fear the look that Draconequus was giving him. Luckily Applejack was there to save him.

"That's actually pretty common these days" The young mare coughed into her hoof. Without a word of response, he stormed around and past the drake, ripping the door to his study open and slamming it shut behind him. 

Once all was quiet, the duo released a deep breath not knowing they had been holding their breath. "Well, Ah don't know about you but that scared me."

"Same here."

"Well, at least you finally got what you came for" slapping the purple dragon on his back leaving a patch of flour on his navy blazer. 

"Huh?" Spike raised an eyebrow giving her a confused look. 

"Here." she pointed down at the formerly blank parchment. 

Dear Celestia 

I apologise for the late response. Had I known that this Gala was being thrown in honour of Fluttershy would have replied sooner. 

I will follow up on your recommendation and shall be attending her debut, out of respect for her and her father. 

Signed, Discord.

Spike stared at the letter agape at the letter, half expecting the words to evaporate off the page at any moment.

"Am glad everything worked out for ya, Spike" Applejack smiled at him. "Now if only he'll give me the deed to mah family's farm we could both leave this place with a smile on our faces."

Still, in awe that he finally had finished his assignment, he gave a simple nod. "Uh, don't you think you should send that to the princesses now, Sugar cube? Ya know...In case he changes his mind?"

With another simple nod, the drake rolled up the parchment and held in front of his face. Blowing out a gentle green flame that engulfed it in magic. Transporting it to the princess. When it was gone, a giant smile was plastered on his face. "By the way, when is the Gala?"
> Chapter 7: Demure, distressed and dishevelled
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fiddling with her purple ponytail between nervous and shaking hooves she held back the salty tears that had started to sting in her violet eyes now red and puffy from her lack of sleep. Usually the library was a very calming place for her. The curious light peeking through the sheer curtains onto the rows of massive bookshelves on the far side of the room. The smell of paper and ink that held a slight musky aroma with gracefully aged knowledge that filled the room to the brim. The remainder of the room was occupied by desks and reading chairs. It was her safe space. Yet she nearly jumped out of her clothes and fur when she felt an unexpected hoof rest on her shivering shoulder.

“Twilight I am sure he is okay.” The unicorn mare insisted. “I am positive that he is responsible enough to report back to you if he was in any immediate danger” Now the well-manicured hoof had found its way around the purples unicorns shoulders. Stroking her foreleg reassuringly.

The inconsolable student looked up into her confidants azure gaze. At first, she tried to favour the other unicorn with a smile which quickly crumbled. Contorted into a look of confusion and pain. Swiftly brushing the hoof off of her and looked away to the marbled floor “I know...But he’s still been gone for so long.”

“Twilight, you said he sends you a letter nearly every day.”

“I know! But I am still worried Rarity!” Flinching at her own tone she quickly turned around to apologise but was met by Rarity’s usual motherly smile. Twilight could understand why Spike had such an infatuation with the pony. From her silky indigo mane, to her near ivory coat that was always donned in the latest fashions. One wondered why she had remained unmarried for so long; her only con was her sharp tongue. Twilight winced, and her bastard filly “I’m sorry Rarity...You of all ponies would know how I am feeling right now” Before she could turn her gaze back to the floor the hoof was back. Under her chin forcing her to meet her eyes to the other mares again.

“Darling, don’t apologise to me. I know you're scared. But trust me when I say that he is fine. Have I ever been wrong?”

“Um, well-”

“Excluding those six times.”

“Oh!...Well then...No”

“Exactly, so no tears! You will ruin your make-up. I spent hours getting you ready for the Gala, and I will be very upset if you got mascara on your pastel blue duchess satin dress.” Cutting her friend a playful glare. “Besides, I know my Spikey-Wikey. I’ll bet he’ll come bursting through those doors whe-”

Though his entrance was less than graceful, the young drake banged the door open. Clinging to the door handle to hold up his exhausted frame. “Twi-Twilight!” He gasped between syllables trying to catch his breath. “So-Sorry I’m-” before he could finish his sentence, he was possessed by a fit of coughing “I-idiot Discord JUST signed the contra-” cut short again but instead of a painful ache in his chest he was pulled into Twilight’s. She squeezed him closer as though clutching him so tight gave her life.

“You’re the idiot! Do you know how worried I was!?” He was about to come up with a witty response to resume their usual banter but stopped short when he heard her sniffle back a tear. He opted to stroke her back instead. He would be lying if he said he didn't tear up a little as well from being separated for so long. They were everything to each other. He was her ward, child, brother and support. Ever since he had hatched years ago, they were nearly inseparable. Spike was her support. He always knew what she needed.

And what she needed now.

“Come on now, Twilight. I was doing my job. I know you were worried, but I am fine see?” He pushed her away so she could take a proper look at him. Apart from his dishevelled and slightly muddy suit, he looked fine “Like you were doing yours. How come I get the feeling that you haven't stopped studying these last few weeks.”

“Don’t change the subject! I was very worried, Spike!” He grinned at her scolding when he saw her cheeks begin to turn pink.

“Meaning you haven’t been eating. Right?”

“Actually my dear” Rarity interrupted “I took it upon myself to see that the silly girl didn’t neglect her health” She was graced with a bashful giggle and incoherent murmurs. She had grown used to the young drakes “episodes” and proceeded to clean up his suit with her magic.

Twilight rolled her eyes and elbowed him. Finally, he squeaked out “H-hi Rarity, I-um. Thank you. Um, no wonder you look so pretty Twilight!”

“Why thank you Spikey-Wikey. But I must ask, what caused such a drastic delay? I mean the Gala is about to start! Yes, Twilight was able to distract herself with books, but I was so lonely.”

“I’m sorry Rarity. I only got him to agree to come just a few hours ago. As soon as he signed it, I packed my bags. But I was in such a rush I forgot I could have asked him to teleport me here. So I had to improvise travel. The trains were a nightmare!”

Rarity gasped bringing a hoof to her mouth “Why Spike, that is awful” Twilight looked through the window at the setting sun.

Spike nodded. “It was rough. I had to trade a mop, just to get my hands on some tickets!”

“A mop?” His long-term crush enquired with a wry smile on her face. Relishing in her interest spike continued while Twilight squinted at the clock.

“Yeah, but obviously I don't just carry a mop around with me. So I had to gamble my lunch for an old donkey’s toupee and-”

“Were gonna be late!” Engulfed in Twilight’s magic once more he felt his feet lift off the ground, his body being pulled by the heels of the unicorn through the open doors.

“Oh, Come on!” He crossed his arms and grumbled under his breath “ and was just getting to the good part.” while Rarity merely shook her head in amusement, following up behind.
> Chapter 8: Double double trouble
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

They were stressed. Discord and his three clone copies. It was too late revoke his reply to the princesses invitation. He was dressed and ready to go, cloak on and gloves in paw but wanted nothing more than to hide under a rock but he could not ignore that Baron Shy had also reached out for him to attend. 

Feeling guilty beyond measure because his cousin had caused all this upheaval, Discord curled a claw around his gloves, talons digging into his palm and resumed his pacing, swatting away a few flying books as he did. The cloven hoof and claw slammed against the ceiling with every uneven hoofstep echoing throughout his full study as he paced.

“Will you stop your pacing!? Seriously! it’s like a circus group of hippos practising acrobatics in here!” The draconequus floating clone copy of chastised him while throwing a confidential file into the active volcano by his thinking tree in the centre of the room that sat in front of a dark oak desk, between two long chesterfield chairs. Letting his paw combing through his zebra-like mane stressfully. 

“Yeah, Discord. Cordy, Dissy and I understand you're frustrated. But stomping around in a huff while we’re trying to work isn’t going to solve anything” The third Discord leaned forward in his office chair, resting an elbow against the desk that sat in the right corner of the mismatched room to tap away some of the ash on his cigar and tear his eyes apart from his chess game to glare up at the original. 

“STOP CALLING ME DISSY!!! ” The stressed draconequus growled his patience from the last 3 hours evaporating. “AND WHAT WORK!?” landing in front of the aloof doppelganger. Bumping into the desk and knocking over a few chess pieces off of the board. 

“Watch it, you big oaf!” Cordy, the miniature discord, clad in shining armour shouted stopping his knight piece from falling over. Curling comfortably around it with a caring nuzzle. Discord stopped pacing and stared, the seated clone raised an eyebrow, and Dissy cringed away from the strange copy.

“That is just wrong…” they muttered under their breath. 

“Oh hush!” Cordy cuddled the horse piece closer “You’re just jealous.”

Discord huffed “Are we just going to totally ignore the fact that we are about to meet the Shy's after three years?” He pointed an accusing claw at his clones “I called you here to help me. Yet here you are wasting time again. At least you are trying, Dissy. But-”

“Do not call me ‘Dissy’” 

“Cordy and Dex are-”

“It’s Poindexter”

The Discords sighed in unison. Cordy leaned against his knight piece and started removing his gauntlets. “Look, Discord. I don’t know what you’re whining about, but we are the master of chaos.” He looked up to his upside down clone “With just a click or a nod, everything would be done and dusted.”

Poindexter nodded sharing Cordy's sentiment "If you didn't want to go then why did you accept the invitation?” Fiddling with his snaggletooth until it he plucked it out in the shape of a bishop and placed it on the board before taking another puff of his cigar.

The regular sized chimaera ignored their argumentative counterpart “Because…” Discord fiddled with his collar nervously; the next sentence lodged in his throat. “Baron shy and Princess Cadence will be there.”  His copies hissed and recoiled, as though his words had physically burned them. “Now do you understand?”

“When will the mortality rate hit those bastards!?”

“That contract must have expired by now!”

“Will you both shut your howling screamers?” Dissy roared. 

“You can not silence me! you beastly heathen!” Cordy drew his sword, causing Poindexter to hide his mouth behind a paw trying to hold in his snorts and giggles at the heated Draconequus. “Oh, hush Dex! This is serious!”

"My name is Poindexter, not Dexter and certainly not Dex!" 

“I say we pretend we to be sick and don't go!”

“Oh, how smart. What next? Lie and say Fido ate our homework and invitation?”

“That might work.”

“No!”

“Well, I say that discord should go!” All of the Discords flinched back. Without a word of warning, Dissy threw himself out of the window. “Oh dear! What was his problem?” The pink earth pony asked curiously in a normal overly cheery voice. 

Instead of answering her Poindexter crushed the remainder of his cigar into the glass ashtray and plucked Cordy’s king from their board game, muttering a “checkmate” pocketing the well-crafted piece before sinking deeper and deeper into his chair until there wasn't a trace of him left.

Cordy, straddling his non-sentient knight piece, followed his mirror images examples. Leaping from the desk, he rode his steed at a gallop past the mare and through the open door.

With Cordy's, Dissy's and Poindexter's abrupt exit, Discord found himself alone with the pink earth pony. Looking down at her, with her chaotic appearance: Her frock covered in jam and cake batter along with the wooden spoon that had somehow found its way into her incontrollable mane, he should have seen Miss Pinkamena Dianne Pie as somewhat likeable. 

But he didn't.

Dropping to the floor with a thud he towered over the mare. Seeing her held to many negative connotations and reminded him why he kept he usually resided in his study.

Discord twisted his gloves as the silence dragged on before his mind caught up with the moment and location. His ire at the pink mare having broken the same rule yet again. Annoyance flashed through his eyes as he plastered a grin on his face, one that caused the mare's own smile to dim.

Leaning down, so he was eye to eye with her Discord asked, "Pinkie, what have I said about my study?" 
Pinkies' eyes shrunk as she remembered where she was and who she was talking to. "I-I'm sorry. I just wanted to let you know that your chariot is ready and wanted to offer you some cookies for the ride to the castle." Her ears were pinned back in fear as she trembled.

Discords false cheery demeanour dropped into a snarl. "No, I don't want cookies." He began pushing her from the room. 

"My-my Lord, I know that you don't want to-"

"You know nothing... And I can hear through the door when spoken to, so for the last time," he growled shoving her through the door. "stay out of my study!" 

Slamming and locking the door behind them with a click, Discord strode past the frightened mare, snorting in anger.
> Chapter 9: A new friend
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

An elegant hoof stroked the brim of her glass. It was her fourth glass for the evening; it was slowly doing the job to drown out the sound of the blaring music. A warm smile brightened her face as she looked into the centre of the hall to see a small filly. Unlike her mother, her coat was a light grey and a mane that curled beautifully at its pale mulberry and rose pink ends. Rarity gave a small sigh of relief. Her daughter, Sweetie Belle, didn't resemble her father.

"Oh Hello, Miss Rarity" The ivory unicorn sighed. She purposely had sat at one of the furthest tables from the centre of the party at the centre of the Princesses ballroom to get away from all the drama. The only reason she had decided to attend was due to Mr Zephyr Breeze Shy nagging her to come. He was a sweet Stallion and was adamant that she should meet his sister.

"Hello, Filthy" She spat out his name as though it had dirtied her tongue. Completely ignoring his wife Mrs Spoiled Rich, adorned in over the top attention seeking jewellery.

"We couldn't help but notice you were sitting here by yourself so I thought we could keep you some company" He smiled at her sincerely as if he hadn't noticed her tone of voice.

"Though the drinks seem to be doing a fine job of that already, isn't that your fifth glass now" Mrs Rich sneered at her. Rarity nodded with a nasty smile of her own which failed to mar her beauty.

"Why yes, Spoiled! it is." She looked sadly at the half eaten lettuce sandwich on her plate. "Though I can't seem to finish this sandwich. Tell me Spoiled would you like these leftovers as well?" Bringing her icy blue stare to Mrs Rich's stubborn and robust opal. She felt a small slither of satisfaction when she noticed Filthy Rich visibly flinch at her snarky question.

"Yes, it like you can never keep sandwiches satisfied. Oops! I meant that the other way around" The pink earth pony covered her mouth in mock surprise.

"Careful, Spoiled. We wouldn't want you hurting yourself with such big words like Satisfied and Oops. Speaking of satisfied I see you settled for the last years Sassy Saddles ensemble." Rarity shot Filthy a spiteful look "What's the matter, Filthy? Falling on hard times again?" A look of guilt passed on Filthy's face. Causing his wife to look between him and his accuser.

"How dare- Wait. What on Equestria is she talking about?" Whether he hadn't heard his wife or wisely decided to keep his muzzle buttoned, he didn't answer. Instead, Rarity took another jab at the couple.

"Oh my, vache gâtée. I'm sure your husband would love to entertain you with such a story, but I have neither time nor the crayons explain to you."

With an exaggerated gasp and a hoof clutched tightly to her chest the earth pony whipped her head around to her husband "Are you going to let that-that old maid talk to me like that?!"

Old maid!? Rarity screamed internally. "I suggest you walk away, Spoiled. You couldn't handle me if I came with a set of instructions and an emergency kit. Oh and before you have the audacity to call anyone old might I suggest looking in the mirror?" Trying to maintain her calm and aloof façade she used her magic to pick up her glass to her lips and stated "Bags are accessories. Not things to go under one's eyes" before Mrs Rich could utter another word Mr Rich took his wife by the elbow and ushered his wife through the tables back to the party.

"Come, dear. It is obvious that Miss Rarity has no need for our company" Filthy said his voice shaking as he tried to stop his wife's' emotional explosion.

Finally taking a sip of her grape wine she set the glass back down on the table gracefully, a weary sigh on her lips. "I know you were listening by the way" The Pegasus sitting at the table beside her bit down on her bottom lip.

The butter yellow mare blushed as she shook her head. A half smile made it's way to Rarities face, "Really, Darling?" She turned to face her. "It's kind of hard to ignore a conversation like that." Her eyes took on a half-lidded look. An ashamed nod followed the statement before the Pegasus rose to leave. Rarity's hoof settled on her new acquaintances' foreleg. "Don't worry sit with me." The mare hesitated before sitting at the table. "I'm not mad, though I simply must know why a beautiful creature like you is sitting so far from the crowd."

When the only response she got was a curtain of hair swinging between the two of them, her eyes took on a slight edge, after all, she could never turn down a mystery, and this mare was undoubtedly mysterious. "The shy silent type, my, my, my." Rarity sat back lifting her wine taking another sip, her gaze analysing the Pegasus, "a puzzle then, what makes a mare as breath-taking as you avoid a crowd?" She let out a slight chuckle as the mare tugged at her hair with a blush, her eyes darting about with embarrassment.

The subconscious gesture reminded Rarity of somepony, but who? "Maybe you like quiet places? Or maybe you are avoiding your past lover, the dashing Lockheart who is rushing over here right now to win back the hoof of the only mare he loved!" Rarity sighed dramatically a hoof to her forehead mocking a faint. Stealing a quick glance at the young mare trying to hold in a giggle she let out a sweet laugh of her own.  "Or maybe, now this is just a guess. Are you perhaps the young Lady Shy?" giving the pale gold Pegasus another teasing smile.

Her embarrassed demeanour now replaced with shock, confusion and a little fear of being caught off guard. "I'll take that look as a yes. But I have no doubt you are wondering how I knew?" 

At her company's puzzled expression she started to relay how she had discovered her identity "Well, sometime ago-your brother, Zephyr Breeze needed some help picking out a few gifts for the, and I quote. 'The worlds best older sister'" 

Fluttershy felt her cheeks warm. Feeling tempted to roll her eyes at her brother. "So I suggested a few limited editions from his description. Something soft, understated yet finely detailed" 

Sweeping her purple locks out of her face and under her headpiece  Rarity beamed at the younger mare. "And I must say you compliment the dress wonderfully." Receiving a small nod of thanks.

"I do hope we can become good friends Miss Fluttershy." She received another nod, this one more enthusiastic than the last.

Before they could agree to pour another glass in celebration of their new friendship Rarity looked down when she felt a slight tug on the blue lace hem of her soft eggplant dress. "Why! Hello Spike."

The young drake smiled bashfully at his vision of beauty. "U-um. Hi Rarity! I was just uh, w-wondering if you are free right now." 

"No dear." A look of disappointment flashed across the purple dragon's face. "I am still incredibly expensive." His expression changed to pure relief as the three of them smiled and laughed at the silly joke. "Oh! Spike, have you met my new friend? The lovely Lady Fluttershy?" She gestured with a hoof.

Minding his manners, he offered Fluttershy a low bow and formally introduced himself. "Would you mind if I steal Miss Rarity for a dance" at the ladies smiles he took her hoof into his claw and started to guide her away from the table. He stopped and looked back up to his to-be dance partner who had paused to offer her motherly smile to Fluttershy.

"Miss Shy, would you like a word of advice?" The Pegasus mare tilted her head to the side with a raised eyebrow donning curious pout. "You and I both know as ladies that this gala is not just a debut for you. It is also courting session. Might I suggest that you talk to somepony who has caught your eye or at the very least do the world a favour and show off that beautiful smile your brother and I adore." Rarity turned to leave letting Spike eagerly pull her towards the centre of the room. 

Leaving a red-faced Pegasus to her thoughts.
> Chapter 10: A reason for everything
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Well, that was indeed something. Fluttershy smiled as she watched her new friend sashay with the young drake towards the denser crowd and weave through the party ponies to the busy dance floor.  Her smile soon began to falter as she remembered the mares and her father's words.

She was right. She WAS here for a reason. 

Turning back to the table the Pegasus sighed resting her chin on a pale gold hoof. With a deep breath, she tried to ignore the fear and doubt that was starting to fester in the back of her mind. 

Fears that she thought she had overcome years ago. 

I still don't feel ready, but at least I will have the freedom of choice this time I suppose. But a wave of sadness still swept over the young mare that Fluttershy could not ignore. In reality, did she really have a choice? She had no say to who was invited to this gala. 

Pulling up an unused glass she reached for a bottle of clear rose water and began to pour.

Her eyes misted over as she thought about a happier life. One where she could make choices. If I had a husband...I'd want him to listen to me...even if I have nothing to say. To treat me with respect, keep me safe and treasure me. She winced slightly when a question echoed in the back of her mind. What about love?Closing her eyes as she tried to see herself in love. 

No. The memory of her fall started to blossom from the thought, the vision of Blueblood reaching out to catch her. She remembered his face. The fear. The sadness...The hesitation. She felt the tension start to build up in her wing No...I don't need love...As long as he will always-

She jolted out of her thoughts, realising that she had forgotten to stop pouring quickly set the bottle on to the now wet table. Swallowing down pent-up annoyance at her own clumsiness, the young mare lifted the bottle again and pulled out a napkin out of her sleeve with her teeth to wipe the table. Now left with a sopping handkerchief, Fluttershy looked around her to see what she could do with the wet rag.

Oh! An idea came to mind as her eyes rested on the nearly empty bottle. She started to ease the napkin down the neck of the bottle then Brought it up eye level to lament on the end of her favourite handkerchief and glare at the emerald bottle accusingly as if the inanimate object was somehow at fault, only to be startled by what she saw in its reflection. 

It can't be?

Slamming the bottle back on the table she whipped her head around with her teal eyes darting around the halls seeking out the chimaera. The ballroom lighting was a warm and welcoming tone thanks to the candlelight from the chandeliers warm light that showered gently onto the marbled ballroom floor and ivory pillars making many flickering shadows. 

After a minute of surveying the crowded hall, Fluttershy reasoned that she was simply fooled by the lighting. But she could help but Wonder how long it had been since she last laid eyes on him. Why am I so nervous?... It's not like he has ever hurt me...

She couldn't suppress the shiver that shook her frame as she recalled seeing the last time she saw him, that predatory look in his eye that reminded her of Tirek.

am I nervous? 

She could feel the fur on the back of her neck rise and dampen with a cold sweat and the tormented memories of that night began to resurface, worse than before. The muscle in her wings was starting to knot.  

That was when a wave of calm washed over her when she heard two familiar voices near one of the further pillars. 

"C'mon Rainbow. Relax! let that gorgeous hair down and have a drink with me, I promise..." The rest of Zephyr Breeze's plea was drowned out by the other partying ponies. 

Brushing off the front of her dress the Fluttershy elegantly climbed out of her chair and started into a trot towards the familiar faces. Raising a hoof to signal at her brother when she caught a glimpse of a tall and familiar shadow again, lurking in the pillars shadows behind her brother. I-is it really?

Before she could collect her thoughts she heard a thud. To her left Zephyr was clutching at his stomach and donning a pained expression, while the multi-coloured pony grumbled off, clearly annoyed. It barely took six seconds for Fluttershy to figure out what happened. Her brother Zephyr has been pining for that colt Rainbow Dash for a long time now. Oh Zephyr Fluttershy sympathised with her brother every time she caught a glimpse of other ponies disgusted glares. 

"Poor Zephyr Breeze" The voice behind her nearly made Fluttershy jump out of her skin. She whipped her head around to look at the owner of the motherly like voice. "Oops. Sorry if I scared you Fluttershy" The Alicorn smiled down at the small pony who stared up at her in awe.

Princess Cadence?